Lout Verschuur

Growing up around small pleasure craft sparked a lasting interest in maritime technology, leading me to study Maritime Technology at NHL Stenden University. During the programme I became familiar with Van Oossanen’s work, making an internship there a natural next step.

The internship formed part of the MethaNorms project and focused on Wind Assisted Ship Propulsion (WASP), with emphasis on Flettner Rotors as a retrofit solution. The aim was to evaluate wind assistance improving hull efficiency and offsetting methanol’s energy density.

A key result was the development of a surrogate model that rapidly estimates Flettner Rotor forces using limited inputs, including geometry, flow conditions, and operational parameters. This enables early-stage feasibility assessments across ship types without costly simulations. The model was validated against in-house full-scale CFD data using a transparent workflow. The resulting tool supports decisions on when WASP delivers performance benefits, aligned with MethaNorms’ and Van Oossanen’s sustainability goals.

Alessandro Basso

Driven by a deep interest in the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence within the maritime sector, I chose to conclude my academic journey in Computer Engineering at the University of Genoa with an internship at Van Oossanen Naval Architects.

During my time at Van Oossanen, I played a role in the MENENS project, where I focused on the application of machine learning techniques to accelerate CFD simulations used to estimate water resistance. I also contributed to the development of optimisation algorithms aimed at supporting the early-stage design of high-performance yachts with a reduced environmental impact.

This hands-on experience allowed me to apply AI to real-world challenges in naval architecture, demonstrating the power of intelligent systems to enhance both sustainability and performance in the marine industry. My work highlighted the ongoing potential for innovation and improvement in this exciting field.

ilona Hollander

The environment and sustainability have always been important topics for me. With more and more innovations coming to the maritime industry, my interest in smart solutions and the bigger picture they operate in only grows stronger. The yachting industry is a part of the maritime world were more resources for innovations are available, making it the perfect growing ground for solutions that are here to stay.

During my internship at Van Oossanen Naval Architects, I was able to combine my interests and this scientific approach is needed in order to assess and fairly compare different yachts, which will give better environmental insights for designers, yacht owners and others involved in the industry. Knowing the specific sources and amounts of pollution with their respective environmental impact is the first step in making better environmental friendly decisions where it matters the most.