SDC Ship Design & Consult GmbH (SDC) is a Hamburg-based consultancy that specializes in naval architecture, marine engineering, and ship design. With a global presence, SDC is dedicated to offering practical, high-quality solutions tailored to meet the needs of each client.

What sets SDC apart is the company's collaborative approach, working closely with clients throughout every stage of a project. Whether it's from the very first design sketch, through the development of tender documents and class drawings, or right up to the final delivery documents, SDC values working as a partner alongside shipyards, shipping companies, engineering offices, and classification societies to ensure the success of each project.

SDC is also proud to support existing fleets with services that range from large-scale conversions and re-engineering to smaller modifications, stability updates, and light ship surveys. The company focuses on understanding each client’s unique needs and providing tailored support for both new builds and ongoing fleet operations.

Through its long-standing partnership with Hamburgische Schiffbau-Versuchsanstalt GmbH (HSVA), SDC is able to offer specialized expertise in hydrodynamic and energy optimization. By working closely with HSVA, SDC can help clients improve the energy efficiency of both new ships and existing vessels, making the most of the latest technologies.

For public sector clients, SDC is providing full support through tendering, contract awarding, and the entire technical journey of a project, all the way through to the successful delivery of the ship.

Since its founding in 1997, SDC has grown to a team of 28 dedicated professionals, many of whom hold university degrees in shipbuilding, marine engineering, or marine technology. The company's multidisciplinary team brings expertise across general design, steel design, stability, and mechanical engineering, allowing SDC to handle most aspects of a project in-house. When additional specialized expertise is needed, SDC relies on its extensive network of trusted specialists.

SDC is proud to have built strong expertise in a wide variety of ship types, from tankers and cement carriers to research vessels, polar icebreakers, and cruise ships. The company’s designs are currently featured in nearly 30 ships worldwide, which are either under construction or on order.

In addition to its core ship design and engineering services, SDC is actively engaged in the development of alternative fuels and propulsion systems. This includes successful projects in methanol fuel designs and wind-assisted propulsion, helping the industry transition to more sustainable solutions for the future.

SDC is a preferred partner, because of its

• Collaborative Approach: SDC emphasizes teamwork and close collaboration with clients, ensuring that every project is tailored to the specific needs of the customer.

• End-to-End Project Support: From concept through to delivery and beyond, SDC offers comprehensive services for both newbuilds and existing fleets, ensuring successful outcomes at every stage.

• Energy Optimization Expertise: In partnership with HSVA, SDC delivers hydrodynamic and energy optimization services that enhance the performance of both new and existing vessels.

• Multidisciplinary Teamwork: With a diverse, highly qualified team, SDC covers most disciplines in-house, providing seamless project execution while maintaining flexibility for additional expertise when needed.

• Focus on Sustainability: With a commitment to innovation, SDC is actively developing alternative fuel and propulsion technologies, such as methanol fuel and wind-assisted systems, to support the maritime industry’s shift toward sustainability.

• Global Reach with a Personal Touch: Trusted by clients around the world, SDC’s collaborative, hands-on approach ensures that every project receives the attention it deserves, no matter the size or complexity.