A new First-Level Master’s Degree in ‘Nautical Design for High-End Pleasure Craft’ was officially presented
at the Venice Boat Show, within the historic Arsenale complex. The program is developed in collaboration
with LINK University and aimed at graduates in technical, engineering, and design disciplines.
The presentation event was attended by leading figures from the Italian nautical industry, academia, and
professional associations to meet the growing demand for highly qualified professionals in the superyacht
sector. Speakers included: Giovanni Acampora, President of Assonautica Italiana; Antonio Bufalari,
Secretary General of Assonautica Italiana; Elena Magro, Secretary General of Assonautica Veneto; and
Antonio Toffanelli, representing LINK University.
A Forward-Looking Program
The Master’s program, scheduled to begin October 8, 2026, has been developed to provide participants
with direct experience of the operational, technical, and managerial challenges of the modern shipbuilding
industry.
At the heart of the program is an ambitious design project: the development of a pleasure craft of
approximately 500 gross tons, designed with a strong focus on sustainability, accessibility, and innovation.
Students will design a yacht powered by environmentally friendly propulsion systems, while ensuring the
highest standards of accessibility and inclusivity onboard.
The program will address advanced propulsion technologies, including Volvo Penta’s electric azimuth
propulsion systems, and will provide a framework for assessing emerging energy-generation and storage
solutions such as hydrogen and other state-of-the-heart sustainable technologies.
Key Themes of the Master’s Program
During the launch event, several industry experts outlined the key themes that will guide students
throughout the program. Architect and researcher Paolo Ferrari, PhD, emphasized the importance of
accessibility and the elimination of architectural barriers on modern vessels. Shipbuilder Maurizio Magri
discussed the technical and operational complexities of yacht construction, while Nicola Pomi, President of
Volvo International, recounted Volvo Penta’s technological contribution with the IPS 40 propulsion
platform. Massimo Malaspina, President of ISYBA, offered an overview of brokerage, negotiation, and
contractual dynamics in the superyacht market.
In search of future talents in nautical design
“We want to directly respond to the needs of shipyards by placing talented young professionals in facilities
recognized among the best in the world,” said Franco Gnessi, Naval Architect, Secretary General of
ASPRONADI (Association of Pleasure Boat Designers), and creator of the Master’s program.
Admission is subject to a general and technical interview with the Scientific Coordinator to assess each
candidate’s aptitude and suitability for the program.
