The official launch of the new First-Level Master’s Degree in “Nautical Design for High-End Pleasure Craft”, developed in collaboration with LINK University, took place at the Venice Boat Show within the historic Arsenale complex.
Presented during a dynamic conference hosted inside the Arsenale Tower, the programme brings together leading figures from Italy’s maritime industry, academia, and professional associations to address the growing demand for highly qualified professionals in the superyacht sector.
The event was moderated by Fabio Legni and featured distinguished speakers including Giovanni Acampora, President of Assonautica Italiana; Antonio Bufalari, Secretary General of Assonautica Italiana; Elena Magro, Secretary General of Assonautica Veneto; Antonio Toffanelli, representing LINK University; and representatives of the Venice Boat Show.
A Practical and Forward-Looking Educational Programme
The Master’s programme, scheduled to begin on 8 October 2026, has been designed to provide students with direct exposure to the operational realities of the shipbuilding industry.
At the centre of the course is an ambitious design project: the development of a pleasure vessel of approximately 500 gross tons, conceived with a strong focus on sustainability, accessibility, and innovation. Students will be challenged to design a yacht powered by environmentally responsible propulsion systems while ensuring the highest standards of onboard accessibility and inclusivity.
The programme will explore advanced propulsion technologies, including Volvo Penta’s electric azimuth propulsion systems, enabling the evaluation of emerging energy-generation solutions such as hydrogen and other next-generation sustainable technologies.
Industry Leaders Shaping the Next Generation
During the launch event, several industry experts outlined the key themes that will guide students throughout the programme.
Architect and researcher Paolo Ferrari, PhD, addressed the importance of accessibility and the elimination of architectural barriers aboard modern vessels. Shipbuilder Maurizio Magri discussed the technical and operational complexities of yacht construction, while Nicola Pomi, President of Volvo International, presented Volvo Penta’s technological contribution through the IPS 40 propulsion platform. Massimo Malaspina, President of ISYBA, provided insight into brokerage, negotiations, and contractual dynamics within the superyacht market.
Founder’s Vision
“We want to respond directly to the needs of shipyards by placing talented young professionals within facilities that are recognised among the best in the world,” said Franco Gnessi, Naval Architect, Secretary General of ASPRONADI (Association of Pleasure Craft Designers), and creator of the Master’s programme.
A Network of Strategic Partnerships
The programme has been developed through a broad network of institutional and industrial partnerships. The organisers expressed their gratitude to Assonautica Italiana–Unioncamere, technical partners, shipyards, and professional associations, including ASPRONADI and ISYBA, for their strategic support and commitment to fostering new talent within Italy’s globally recognised nautical industry.
The faculty includes leading professionals from across the sector, among them Paolo Ferrari, PhD; maritime lawyer Andrea Petragnani Ciancarelli; superyacht builder Maurizio Magri; designer and artist Giangi Razeto; and Massimo Malaspina.
The programme will be delivered in a blended-learning format, with students working on dedicated digital workstations equipped with the industry-standard design software Rhinoceros.
Admissions Now Open
Applications are officially open for graduates in technical, engineering, and design disciplines, including Architecture, Engineering, Industrial Design, Graphic Design, and Game Design.
Admission is subject to a general and technical interview with the Scientific Coordinator to assess each candidate’s aptitude and suitability for the programme.
For further information regarding admissions, curriculum details, and application procedures, prospective students may consult LINK University’s official website or contact the Master’s Office directly.
-
-
17 June 2026
