Services &
Process

Our process begins with a thorough consultation, where our experienced design team collaborates closely with you to understand your vision, preferences, and functional requirements.

The first step involves a comprehensive analysis of your needs and desires, considering aspects such as layout preferences, lifestyle considerations, and performance expectations. We leverage state-of-the-art technology and design tools to create preliminary design concepts that serve as the foundation for your customized yacht.

These preliminary design concepts encompass a range of elements, including exterior aesthetics, interior layouts, and technological features. We prioritize innovation and functionality to ensure that your yacht not only meets but exceeds your expectations. Our iterative design process allows for feedback and refinement, ensuring that the final concept aligns perfectly with your vision.

The first steps in our yacht design process set the stage for a collaborative journey towards creating a vessel that reflects your unique style and preferences.

iYacht GmbH specializes in providing comprehensive product design services tailored to meet the unique needs of the marine and yachting industry.

Our team of highly skilled designers combines creativity with technical expertise to deliver innovative and aesthetically pleasing solutions. From conceptualization to prototyping and final production, iYacht GmbH offers a full spectrum of product design services, ensuring that each project aligns seamlessly with client specifications and market trends.

With a commitment to excellence and a deep understanding of maritime engineering, iYacht GmbH is your trusted partner for bringing cutting-edge, functional, and visually stunning products for the entire maritime industry.

iYacht GmbH is synonymous with luxury and sophistication in yacht interior design. Our expert team of interior designers brings a wealth of experience and creativity to curate bespoke, elegant, and functional spaces within the maritime realm. Specializing in crafting interiors that seamlessly blend opulence with practicality, iYacht GmbH transforms vessels into floating works of art.

From conceptualization to execution, our interior design services cover every aspect of yacht customization. We prioritize client collaboration, ensuring that individual preferences and lifestyle needs are seamlessly integrated into the design process. Our commitment to using high-quality materials, exquisite finishes, and innovative solutions ensures a timeless and visually stunning result.

Whether it’s a classic, contemporary, or avant-garde aesthetic, iYacht GmbH caters to diverse tastes, delivering tailor-made interior designs that elevate the yachting experience.

iYacht GmbH takes your maritime experience to the next level with our cutting-edge Virtual Reality (VR) services. As a leading provider in the yachting industry, we leverage VR technology to offer immersive and realistic virtual experiences.

Whether it’s showcasing yacht interiors, allowing clients to explore vessel layouts, or offering interactive training simulations, our VR services redefine the way stakeholders engage with maritime products and services. iYacht GmbH’s VR solutions blend innovation and functionality, providing a unique platform for design visualization, training, and marketing.

Computer Fluid Dynamics take an important role in the early stage of yacht design as well as for optimizations.
Once the initial design is developed and boundary conditions set we run the simulations:
The CFD simulation is executed, and the software iteratively solves the equations for each time step. The simulation calculates the fluid flow around the yacht, pressure distribution, and other parameters.

The results are visualized through color-coded maps, streamlines, and other graphical representations. Designers can analyse the flow patterns, pressure distribution, and areas of turbulence to understand the hydrodynamic performance of the yacht.

Our naval architects use the insights gained from the CFD analysis to optimize the yacht’s design. This may involve adjusting the hull shape, keel design, or sail plan to enhance performance, reduce drag, or improve stability.

The CFD results are compared with experimental data or real-world performance to validate the accuracy of the simulation. This helps build confidence in the CFD predictions.

For us VPP is a valuable asset in the yacht design process. It allows our naval architects to create vessels that meet performance goals and comply with racing regulations if applicable.
We run VPP for monohulls as well as multihulls.

A VPP incorporates models for both the hydrodynamic (in-water) and aerodynamic (in-air) aspects of a yacht. These models take into account the hull shape and all appendixes.

With the performance polar diagram, which is a graphical representation of the yacht’s expected boat speed at different wind angles and wind speeds we evaluate how the yacht will perform under various sailing conditions.

The VPP allows the input of specific wind conditions, including wind speed and direction. It dynamically simulates the interaction between the yacht and the environment which involves calculations for lift and drag forces on the sails and hull, as well as the effects of heeling and pitching.
By adjusting parameters such as sail area, hull shape, or keel design, designers can optimize the yacht’s performance for specific conditions or racing rules.

We use VPP in an iterative manner where the process helps refine the design to achieve the desired balance between speed, stability, and manoeuvrability.

In yacht design, we use FEM as a powerful tool for predicting and optimizing structural behaviour of selected areas or the whole vessel.
Finite Element Method (FEM) is a numerical technique widely used in engineering, including yacht design, to analyse and optimize complex structures.

Based on the geometries we have designed the material properties and boundary conditions are set.

The results obtained from the FEM analysis are then visualized, often using color-coded maps to represent stress levels, displacements, and other relevant parameters. Our engineers use these visualizations to identify critical areas that may require design modifications:

Optimization:

With the insights gained from the FEM analysis, designers and engineers can optimize the yacht’s structure for factors such as weight reduction, improved performance, and enhanced safety.

Iterative Process:

FEM is often used iteratively in the design process. After making design changes, the model is reanalysed using FEM to evaluate the impact of those changes on structural performance.

Validation:

The results obtained from FEM are compared with real-world measurements or analytical solutions to validate the accuracy of the simulation.

Project management services tailored for the small craft yachting industry involve overseeing and coordinating various aspects of yacht-related projects to ensure successful and timely completion. Main services that iYacht provides cover the areas of project planning, which involves developing comprehensive project plans by outlining objectives, scope, timelines, deliverables and milestones, as well as budgeting and cost control. Additional services can be resource management, by identification and allocation of appropriate human resources, as well as risk management, by identification of potential risk and development of mitigation strategies. Other services that we consider as critical for a project to run smoothly is communication and collaboration, where we facilitate clear and consistent communication among project stakeholders and client liaison, where we act as the primary point of contact between the project team and the yacht owner.

iYacht specializes in yacht design and engineering, with a core focus on providing comprehensive support for the production of boats. They handle every stage of the project, from initial setup to final delivery of CAM-ready files for producing GRP molds or nesting aluminium and steel kits. What sets iYacht apart is their meticulous attention to the specific needs of production facilities. They devote significant effort to tailoring their services and deliverables to meet the unique requirements of each client, ensuring smooth and efficient production processes.

Udo Hafner and iYacht have extensive expertise in the field of houseboat development, based on both experience and specialized knowledge.

Udo, as the author of the book “Houseboats – Living on the Water” published by Delius Klasing Verlag, has already demonstrated his deep understanding of the subject and his passion for life on the water. His involvement as a co-initiator of the Houseboat Conference in Hamburg underscores his commitment and networking within the industry.

For over 15 years, Udo Hafner has built a reputation for his expertise in the development, construction, and consulting of houseboats. This extensive experience has not only provided him with a comprehensive understanding of the technical and design aspects of houseboats but also a profound insight into the needs and desires of customers in this specific market segment.

iYacht, as a leading design and engineering firm in the yacht industry, also brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to houseboat development. Their core competencies lie in engineering for boat production, which seamlessly translates into the development and construction of houseboats. They excel in developing tailored solutions that meet the specific requirements and desires of clients.

iYacht forms a strong team capable of successfully guiding houseboat projects from conception to implementation. Their combined expertise allows them to develop innovative and high-quality houseboat solutions that are not only functional and aesthetically pleasing but also meet the highest quality standards.

iYacht provides system engineering for boats and yachts of all types and sizes. System engineers work to integrate various subsystems such as propulsion, electrical, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning), navigation, communication, and entertainment systems into the overall design of the yacht.

• Performance Optimization: Throughout the system design we constantly analyse and optimize the performance of systems to ensure efficiency, reliability, and compliance with industry standards and regulations.
• System Specification: Our system engineers develop detailed specifications for each system component, including equipment, materials, and interfaces, based on the requirements of the yacht and the preferences of the owner.
• Safety and Regulatory Compliance: During the engineering process, our system engineers ensure that all systems comply with safety regulations and standards set by classification societies, flag states, and international maritime organizations or for smaller crafts the essential safety requirements by the CE regulations (Annex I of the directive).
• Integration with Interior and Exterior Design: We focus already within the first design stages onto the seamless integration of system components into the overall aesthetic and functionality of the yacht, as well as focusing on the requirements by procurement and production.

Overall, system engineering in the yachting industry encompasses a holistic approach to the design, integration, and management of complex systems to create safe, efficient, and luxurious yachts that meet the needs and preferences of owners and users.

iYacht provides engineering solutions for the interior construction of yachts. In this specific field, their services typically include:

• Interior Layout Design: All layout design within all stages of the development will optimize space, functionality, and aesthetics.
• Structural Engineering: We ensure that interior structures, such as walls, ceilings, and floors, are designed and constructed to meet safety and regulatory standards while accommodating the desired interior design features.
• Material Selection: We advise on the selection of materials for interior finishes, furnishings, and fittings, taking into account factors such as durability, aesthetics, weight, and compliance with fire safety regulations.
• Integration of Systems: We coordinate the integration of various interior systems, including HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and audio-visual systems, to ensure seamless operation and minimal visual impact.
• Custom Cabinetry and Joinery: At iYacht we design bespoke cabinetry, joinery, and furniture pieces tailored to the specific needs and preferences of yacht owners, optimizing storage space and enhancing the overall interior design.
• Lighting Design: We develop and integrate lighting schemes that enhance the ambiance and functionality of the interior spaces, taking into account natural light, artificial lighting fixtures, and energy efficiency considerations.

Overall, iYacht’s engineering solutions for interior construction focus on creating luxurious, functional, and safe yacht interiors that reflect the unique style and requirements of each client or project.

iYacht offers services that encompass the entire process from CAD engineering to the creation of CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing) files for the production of molds and metal structures. Here’s a brief overview of this procedure:

Once the CAD engineering design phase is complete, iYacht proceeds to generate CAM files by adding the specific data and parameters required related to the parts / items to be produced:

• Production of GRP – Molds: The CAM files are used by production facilities to manufacture molds for various components of the yacht, such as hulls, decks, cabins, and other structural elements. These molds serve as templates for shaping and forming materials like fiberglass, carbon fiber, or composite materials.
• Metal Structure Nesting: In addition to molds, CAM files are also utilized for the nesting of metal structures. This process involves arranging and optimizing the placement of metal components, such as steel or aluminium plates, within a larger sheet to minimize waste and maximize efficiency during the cutting process. iYacht delivers overall 3D structure in CAD with assembly drawings and the required nesting + part list.

Overall, iYacht’s seamless transition from CAD engineering to CAM file generation ensures precision and efficiency in the production of moulds and metal structures for yachts and boats. This integrated approach streamlines the manufacturing process and helps to deliver high-quality results that meet the specifications and requirements of clients and production facilities.

The European Directive 2013/53/EU applies to the placing on the market of recreational craft. The guidelines are also often referred to as the ‘CE standard’ or ‘Recreational craft Directive’.

In principle, the guideline covers boats with a hull length of 2.5m up to 24m, but also includes exceptions such as surfboards, kayaks, historical vehicles, or submarines. Like any other European directive, this is implemented into national law in all member states – in Germany through the Act on Technical Work Equipment and Consumer Products – Devices and Product Safety Act (GPSG).

Our point of interest is product liability for manufacturers, dealers and importers – but the fact that this is also important for the customer/consumer will be thoroughly explained later.

As clearly stated in the directive itself, the law also regulates the placing on the market (commercial trade and sale) of recreational boats with the aim of unifying the market in Europe (level conditions of competition) and increasing safety for people, the environment and vehicles.

Basically, the boats are classified according to different criteria and tested and evaluated accordingly:

• Vehicle type (monohull / multihull, sailboat / motorboat)
• Draft category (A = high seas to D = inland waters)
• Hull length (significant rating differences with a hull length of less than/above 12 m)
• Type of testing; it is possible to test boats individually, carry out type tests or ensure conformity through a QM system, while it is assessed according to a specified test module.

The inspection is carried out by the notified body or, in the case of small boats, by the manufacturer itself. A notified body is a company approved by the EU or the national authorities that also meets defined requirements – these bodies can also emerge from classification societies (Lloyds Register or Germanischer Lloyd) or be newly founded. In fact, there are currently more than 20 notified bodies registered in the EU.

How it is checked: In addition to the directive itself, the basis is its references to over 70 international standards (EN ISO standards), not all of which have been harmonized yet for the most part and therefore have to be applied. This makes the directive one of the most comprehensive technical regulation for yacht building in the world.

The guideline essentially defines the background in its introduction:

“The laws, regulations and administrative provisions applicable in each Member State relating to the safety characteristics of recreational craft differ in their content and scope. These differences may lead to barriers to trade and unequal conditions of competition in the internal market.

Only through harmonization of national legislation can these obstacles to the free movement of goods be removed. This objective cannot be sufficiently achieved by individual Member States. This Directive only lays down the requirements necessary for the free movement of recreational craft.

The basic requirements are the criteria with which pleasure boats and partially completed boats and their individual and installed components must comply.

This directive therefore only sets out the basic requirements. In order to make it easier to demonstrate that a recreational craft meets these requirements, uniform standards for recreational craft and their components must be created at European level.”

The guideline then goes on to define the handling, testing modules, design categories, minimum safety requirements, requirements for notified bodies, etc.

1. Boat categories A and B:

• For boats with a hull length of less than 12m: internal production control with tests (Module Aa)
• For boats with a hull length of 12m – 24m: the EC type examination (Module B) according to Annex VII, followed by Module C (conformity to type) according to Annex VIII or one of the following Modules: B + D or B + F or G or H.

2. Boat category C:

• For boats with a hull length of 2.5m to 12m: – if the harmonized standards for numbers 3.2 and 3.3 of Annex I are complied with: the internal production control (Module A) corresponds to Annex V; – in the event of non-compliance with the harmonized standards in points 3.2 and 3.3 of Annex I: internal production control with tests (Module Aa) in accordance with Annex VI
• For boats with a hull length of 12 m to 24m: the EC type examination (Module B) according to Annex VII, followed by Module C (conformity to type) according to Annex VIII or one of the following Modules: B + D or B+ F or G or H

3. Boat category D For boats with a hull length of 2.5 m to 24 m: the internal production control (Module A) according to Annex V.
4. For the components listed in Annex II, one of the following Modules B + C or B + D or B + F or G or H. The following components are mentioned:

• Devices with ignition protection for inboard and stern engines
• Start protection devices for outboard motors
• Steering wheel, steering device and wiring
• Fuel tanks and fuel lines
• Prefabricated hatches and side windows

The guideline is not only important for shipyards – the customer can recognize more about a yacht if they pay attention to the instructions in the guideline and know the background, therefore what the guideline says and why it is not superfluous:

The user manual: the manual shows you the most important information about your boat: maximum load, description of the systems (electrical, gas, water, etc.), information on operation, maintenance and care, and much more. In small words, everything that is necessary for security reasons. However, it cannot (and should not) give you any advice on how to drive your vehicle safely; the basics of good seamanship must be applied, as well as the necessary boating license and other certificates and, of course, your own responsibility. Every boat must have a user manual, which must be clearly assigned to the boat – recognizable by the registered hull identification number.

Each manual also contains a declaration of conformity: in this the manufacturer (actually ‘the authorized representative in the EU’) declares that your boat has been tested according to a selected test module and built in accordance with the directive. Without this explanation the manual is incomplete. You will also find a manufacturer’s plaque shown in the manual – every boat must have a permanent plaque attached separately from the boat’s hull license plate with the following information:

• Name of the producer
• CE marking
• Boat design category maximum load recommended by the manufacturer
• Manufacturer’s recommendation about people allowed on board

The costs depend on the size of the boat, the extent of the work, carrying out the practical test, creating missing documentation and the like. Please contact us for a non-binding offer.

As an authorized partner, iYacht carries out CE conformity assessment procedures in collaboration with the notified body SWISS LLOYD. Further information about SWISS LLOYD can be found here. http://www.swiss-lloyd.org/

We compile manuals according to the directive 2013/53/EU for CE conformity assessment – based on the current status of all applicable ISO standards, with necessary graphics/drawings and complete the required minimum information.

Is this manual complete and legally secure? We would be happy to check this without obligation and free of charge – email is enough.