The Association
Explore the ideas currently taking shape and the vision shaping our future.​
Photo: Van Oossanen
Photo: Names Studio (naval architecture), Nauta (exterior and interior design) - Castagnola Heritage 9.9 built by Castagnola
Mission
SYDNA exists to promote, protect, and advance the interests, reputation, and influence of naval architects and yacht designers within the superyacht and wider maritime industry. The association provides a unified voice for the profession, fostering excellence, ethical conduct, and long-term value. By connecting expertise, representing shared interests, and supporting innovation and collaboration, SYDNA aims to strengthen the position and future relevance of yacht design and naval architecture worldwide.
Professionalism
SYDNA supports a culture of professionalism grounded in shared values, mutual respect, and high-quality practice across the design and naval architecture disciplines. The association encourages dialogue around ethical conduct, balanced contractual frameworks, and responsible decision-making, offering a platform for exchanging experience and best practices. Through research, discussion, and collaboration, SYDNA aims to strengthen trust, credibility, and professional development within the community, while respecting the diversity of approaches and expertise among its members.
Photo: FM Architettura
Photo: Zuccon International Projects
Regulations
Regulatory developments increasingly shape the future of yachting, particularly in the areas of safety, innovation, and sustainability. SYDNA facilitates the sharing of technical knowledge among its members on IMO and ISO standards, flag state codes, and other key regulatory frameworks affecting yacht design and naval architecture. As part of its multi-year strategy, SYDNA aims to be structurally represented in dialogue with regulatory bodies, flag administrations, and standard-setting organisations, ensuring informed, consistent, and professional representation of the discipline.
Promotion & Representation
SYDNA acts as the collective representative voice of naval architects and yacht designers. The association enhances visibility and recognition of the profession through strategic positioning, industry engagement, and presence at key events. By coordinating communication, supporting unified crisis response, and building relationships across the maritime ecosystem, SYDNA strengthens the public profile, influence, and credibility of its members and the profession as a whole.
Photo: Names Studio (naval architecture refit), Nauta (exterior design refit), Misa Poggi (interior design refit) - Masquenada (EXTERIOR REFIT) Yacht refitted by Lusben
Photo: Bannenberg
Sustainability
Sustainability is a shared responsibility across the superyacht sector. SYDNA supports sector-wide initiatives in which designers, shipyards, engineers, and suppliers contribute funding, time, and/or expertise to advance cleaner technologies and responsible practices. Through collaboration and knowledge exchange, the association helps position superyachts as platforms for innovation in propulsion, materials, and energy efficiency, with solutions that can inform and benefit the wider maritime industry.