From paper to pixels: The digital evolution of marina design


By John Hogan, Director Marine Structures


Marinas were once designed by talented engineers and seasoned sailors using flat 2D drawings and guided by AS3962, Australia’s standard for marina design. Today, however, the marine infrastructure sector is undergoing a remarkable transformation. Advanced marina design has sailed far beyond conventional blueprints, embracing cutting-edge digital tools and sustainable practices to create more resilient, efficient, and environmentally conscious waterfront developments.


Futuristic marina concept featuring sustainable and smart design elements Image credit: Behance - Marina project in Ulcinj - Port Milena, Montenegro


Traditionally, AS3962 served as the guiding framework for marina planners, addressing everything from wave climate to berth configurations. While it remains a


foundational document, its static guidelines are now being reinterpreted and expanded through modern digital methodologies. Designers are turning to Building Information Modelling (BIM), 3D simulations, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to envision and execute complex marina environments with unprecedented precision.


These technologies allow for dynamic modelling of tidal flows, wave interaction, and vessel traffic, enabling engineers to optimise layouts in real time and


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under varied climatic scenarios. For instance, 3D hydrodynamic simulations help identify optimal breakwater placements or dock orientations, reducing sediment build-up and ensuring year-round operability. Augmented Reality (AR) is also making its mark, offering stakeholders immersive experiences of proposed developments well before construction begins. Once the designers have the data, the same information can be used in digital manufacturing. Suppliers are increasing the use of robotic welding and 3D laser cutting to fabricate custom aluminium or stainless- steel marina components - such as cleats, brackets, frames, and gangways.


These elements are often highly customised to fit unique site geometries or loading conditions. Instead of being cut and assembled manually, engineers now use CAD (Computer-Aided Design) files directly in conjunction with CAM (Computer- Aided Manufacturing) software to drive robotic systems. These systems can perform precise, repeatable cuts and welds, reduce human error and allowing faster production with high consistency.


An example is Seaflex anchoring systems, which often involve precision- manufactured elastic moorings and attachment assemblies. These are digitally designed and manufactured to suit


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