The marine and maritime industry is experiencing rapid technological advancements, but many design practices are still stuck in old habits. Naval architecture firms often focus on just one area, such as rugged workboats, custom recreational boats, or government contracts. While this deep specialization has its advantages, innovative companies are realizing that the best ideas come when these barriers are broken down and creativity is encouraged.
More vessel owners and operators are recognizing that the most efficient and innovative solutions come from collaboration between different sectors. Boksa Marine Design (BMD), an engineering and naval architecture firm in Florida, has gained a reputation for embracing this cross-sector approach. By maintaining a diverse portfolio in the commercial, recreational, and government areas, BMD fosters a mix of engineering ideas that enhance the performance, style, and capabilities of their clients’ vessels.
A Foundation in Diverse Capabilities
BMD started out focusing mainly on large custom yachts and worked on significant projects with companies like the Burger Boat Company. However, when the luxury market was hit by a global economic downturn, the flexible company decided to diversify its services and rapidly expanded into the commercial and government sectors.
“We had to diversify and take on more commercial clients,” says Jeff Kuenning, president and naval architect at BMD. “This experience really helped us grow our capabilities.”
Today, this expanded capability is a major advantage for their clients. BMD offers a complete range of services, overseeing a project from the initial concept all the way to delivery. Because they provide everything in-house—from naval architecture to marine electrical engineering—clients don’t have to deal with fragmented teams. All disciplines work together in a cohesive environment.
By employing cross-sector engineering solutions from the beginning, vessel owners can avoid costly design changes during construction, speeding up delivery timelines and improving long-term operational efficiency.
The Core Commonalities of Hull and Systems
At first glance, a 100-foot luxury yacht and a commercial tugboat may not seem alike. One is designed for comfort and aesthetics; the other is built for tough industrial conditions. However, from an engineering perspective, they share key similarities.
“They actually have many things in common,” Kuenning explains. “At their core, if you strip away the extras, they look quite similar. You have the structures, the systems for amenities and propulsion, and so forth.”
This fundamental similarity also extends to regulatory compliance and vessel safety. Whether designing a commercial passenger ship or a luxury yacht, core design elements—like weight distribution, stability, and structural integrity—are closely connected.
“In many ways, a vessel is just a vessel,” Kuenning points out. “While there are some differences, many requirements remain the same. This allows us to transition easily between different types of vessels.”
Applying Yacht Ingenuity to Commercial and Government Projects
The real benefit for clients arises when a challenge in one area leads to an innovative solution in another. Custom yacht design often demands creative engineering because owners expect open spaces and minimalist designs that clash with typical layouts.
“With yachts, luxury is key—big windows and wide-open areas. Owners may say, ‘I don’t want that support beam there; it gets in the way of the dining table.’ So we strive to deliver the best design for their needs, prompting us to get inventive,” Kuenning says.
When engineers constantly tackle complex structural problems on yachts, they are able to apply that creative thinking to commercial workboat projects. Likewise, the practical demands of commercial tugs and workboats inform how BMD approaches the reliability of recreational vessels.
Kuenning observes that this cross-sector perspective gives the team an advantage during initial client consultations when unexpected design challenges arise.
He adds that such flexibility prevents the design team from getting stuck in a creative rut. “We appreciate this diversity,” Kuenning states. “Being able to shift between segments and apply insights from various projects—whether it's yachts, tugs, or large vessels—is hugely beneficial.”
The Power of an Integrated, Sea-Tested Team
Having a broad, multi-sector outlook is only useful if the design team can implement it effectively. Because BMD keeps all its engineering disciplines under one roof, they avoid the communication issues often found in multi-disciplinary marine projects. This collaboration is crucial, as changes to one part of a vessel can impact other areas.
“Every change has a ripple effect,” Kuenning says. “Any adjustment can potentially influence other aspects of the vessel or its function. That’s why having that expertise in-house is invaluable for us.”
Moreover, the team backs its designs with real-world operational experience. Key members, including Founder Nick Boksa, PE, have hands-on sea experience. This practical knowledge ensures that every layout—whether it’s for engines, pumps, or valves—is designed with daily user maintenance and safety in mind.
“Having served on a vessel and dealt with maintenance tasks makes a big difference. Such experience is something you just can't gain from a classroom,” Kuenning emphasizes.
Designing for an Optimized Commercial Fleet
Ultimately, a cross-sector design approach also influences a vessel’s appearance on the water. While functionality and strength are crucial for workboats, BMD's background in yacht design adds an aesthetic touch to commercial fleets.
“Transitioning from the design phase to making something visually appealing, whether it’s commercial or a yacht, matters in all areas,” Kuenning concludes. “Owners and crew want to be proud of their vessel and say, ‘that’s a good-looking tug.’”
For commercial operators, government agencies, and recreational builders, working with a multi-sector firm allows them to break free from traditional design limitations. By combining yacht-level spatial solutions with commercial durability and real-world experience, BMD demonstrates that a wider perspective results in significantly better vessels.
Contact Boksa Marine Design for a consultation regarding your next vessel or shoreside project.