Company Description
McFarlane ShipDesign is a naval architecture firm based in Monaco. Since 1992 we have been specialising in small cruise ships, superyachts, tall ships and expedition ships. Our expertise covers the whole sail and motor vessel range from 50 to 150m, and we offer a complete service in conversions, refits and new builds, from pre-purchase to delivery. Working with a global network of companies and brands allows us to deliver our bespoke projects in the best fashion possible, anywhere in the world. Besides delivering vessels and solutions built to last, our biggest emphasis is on: energy and cost efficiency, environmentally friendly on board systems and applying Class & Rule Regulations. Having an aesthetically perfect vessel is one thing, but we like to ensure its structure is just as sound. McFarlane ShipDesign offers technical consultation services worldwide, and is a leading authority on today’s hot topic: expedition yachts and Ice Class vessels.
“Supplying the yacht and cruise industry with innovative design and solutions since 1992, McFarlane ShipDesign is a discreet Monaco- based company that brings the reassurance of expert knowledge on the engineering of vessels and all the tools necessary to make any naval dream a reality.”
—Robert McFarlane
List of core services
• Naval architecture: designs, drawings, calculations
• Project management for new build, conversions and refits
• Consulting services and surveying
• Technical support and on board solutions
• Lightship survey, inclining, stability books
Personality
Q: How did you become a superyacht designer and what or who inspired you into the industry?
We didn’t start out as superyacht designers per say, we had actually been specialising in the small cruise industry for decades. With the size and complexity of superyachts increasing over time you could say that it was a natural overlap in the industry and a progressive step for us. The two sectors seem far apart, but in actual fact we draw an immense amount of value from both and aim to bring the best of each to the other: the efficiency of small cruise ships to yachting, and a high luxury feel to commercial cruising. Our superyacht specialities lie in the creation of yachts with not only extra- ordinary physical features but extra-ordinary performance abilities that allow owners to do and go anywhere in the world. Inspiration here does not come from art and lines so much as historical exploits, eco-warriors and sailing prodigies. Our definition of a true ‘superyacht’ is a private yacht able to perform extraordinarily, not just look it.
Q: Of the projects you’ve worked on, which was your most challenging and why?
Our ambitious conversion projects are all challenging by nature, but we would identify the REBORN refit as the most. Physical modifications are one thing, but managing client expectations can be even harder, particularly when they don’t necessarily want to understand or accept the physical limitations of their vessel or that drastic last minute changes will probably affect the delivery date. It’s important in these situations to see the humorous side of things though, and ensure that communication skills within the team are incredibly strong to create a happy balance between the client’s wishes and the technical side of realising their project.
Q: How do you go about understanding a client and their wishes for a project?
Understanding their wishes is the fun part of the job; indeed there is nothing more exciting than sitting across from an enthusiastic client and together piecing the elements that will make up their dream yacht. Because of our ‘ship doctor’ reputation, we also find ourselves sitting across from current yacht owners with either existing problems or a desire for something new. Whatever the project, we always first lend a keen listening ear and peruse options on paper and in person before finally dipping into our own knowledge base to ensure that our designs will be not only emotionally fulfilling but efficient, within class regulations and as easy to maintain as possible.
