Quick Overview
- 1#1: AVEVA Marine - Comprehensive digital solution for ship design, engineering, production planning, and lifecycle management in shipyards.
- 2#2: ShipConstructor - Integrated CAD/CAM software that streamlines ship design, engineering, manufacturing, and production information flow for shipyards.
- 3#3: NAPA - Advanced software suite for ship structural design, production engineering, optimization, and operations management.
- 4#4: FORAN - Full 3D CAD/CAM/CAE system supporting all phases of shipbuilding from design to production and maintenance.
- 5#5: Cadmatic - 3D design, engineering, and information management software optimized for shipbuilding and offshore projects.
- 6#6: Smart 3D - 3D modeling and engineering platform for detailed design, fabrication planning, and construction of ships and marine structures.
- 7#7: IFS Applications - Enterprise resource planning system with specialized modules for shipyard operations, maintenance, and project management.
- 8#8: Shipyard 4D - Integrated planning and management software for shipyard production, scheduling, resources, and progress tracking.
- 9#9: Dockmaster - All-in-one management solution for boatyards and small shipyards handling service orders, inventory, billing, and scheduling.
- 10#10: Star Shipyard - Modular software for shipyard job management, quoting, inventory control, purchasing, and financial reporting.
We prioritized tools based on industry-specific feature strength, proven performance, user experience, and overall value, ensuring they align with the unique demands of modern shipbuilding, repair, and project management.
Comparison Table
Explore the key features, integration capabilities, and industry fit of top shipyard management software tools including AVEVA Marine, ShipConstructor, NAPA, FORAN, and Cadmatic. This comparison table equips readers to identify the right solution aligned with their yard's specific workflows and operational needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | AVEVA Marine Comprehensive digital solution for ship design, engineering, production planning, and lifecycle management in shipyards. | enterprise | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | ShipConstructor Integrated CAD/CAM software that streamlines ship design, engineering, manufacturing, and production information flow for shipyards. | specialized | 9.1/10 | 9.6/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | NAPA Advanced software suite for ship structural design, production engineering, optimization, and operations management. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 9.3/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 4 | FORAN Full 3D CAD/CAM/CAE system supporting all phases of shipbuilding from design to production and maintenance. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 9.2/10 | 6.5/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 5 | Cadmatic 3D design, engineering, and information management software optimized for shipbuilding and offshore projects. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | Smart 3D 3D modeling and engineering platform for detailed design, fabrication planning, and construction of ships and marine structures. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 9.3/10 | 6.7/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 7 | IFS Applications Enterprise resource planning system with specialized modules for shipyard operations, maintenance, and project management. | enterprise | 7.6/10 | 8.2/10 | 6.5/10 | 7.1/10 |
| 8 | Shipyard 4D Integrated planning and management software for shipyard production, scheduling, resources, and progress tracking. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.0/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 9 | Dockmaster All-in-one management solution for boatyards and small shipyards handling service orders, inventory, billing, and scheduling. | specialized | 7.4/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.0/10 |
| 10 | Star Shipyard Modular software for shipyard job management, quoting, inventory control, purchasing, and financial reporting. | other | 7.3/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.0/10 | 7.4/10 |
Comprehensive digital solution for ship design, engineering, production planning, and lifecycle management in shipyards.
Integrated CAD/CAM software that streamlines ship design, engineering, manufacturing, and production information flow for shipyards.
Advanced software suite for ship structural design, production engineering, optimization, and operations management.
Full 3D CAD/CAM/CAE system supporting all phases of shipbuilding from design to production and maintenance.
3D design, engineering, and information management software optimized for shipbuilding and offshore projects.
3D modeling and engineering platform for detailed design, fabrication planning, and construction of ships and marine structures.
Enterprise resource planning system with specialized modules for shipyard operations, maintenance, and project management.
Integrated planning and management software for shipyard production, scheduling, resources, and progress tracking.
All-in-one management solution for boatyards and small shipyards handling service orders, inventory, billing, and scheduling.
Modular software for shipyard job management, quoting, inventory control, purchasing, and financial reporting.
AVEVA Marine
enterpriseComprehensive digital solution for ship design, engineering, production planning, and lifecycle management in shipyards.
Integrated Production Management with real-time 3D model-driven manufacturing automation
AVEVA Marine is a leading integrated software suite for shipbuilding and marine engineering, offering end-to-end solutions from conceptual design to production and lifecycle management. It combines advanced 3D modeling, CAD/CAM capabilities, production planning, and project control tools to optimize shipyard workflows and reduce construction time. The platform supports complex vessel projects with features like hull structural design, outfitting, and real-time production monitoring, enabling seamless collaboration across global teams.
Pros
- Comprehensive integration of design, engineering, and production processes
- Advanced 3D modeling and simulation for accurate shipbuilding
- Robust scalability for large-scale shipyard operations and global collaboration
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users due to complexity
- High implementation and customization costs
- Requires significant hardware resources for optimal performance
Best For
Large shipyards and offshore engineering firms managing complex, high-value vessel construction projects.
Pricing
Custom enterprise licensing, typically starting at $500,000+ annually depending on modules and scale, with implementation fees.
ShipConstructor
specializedIntegrated CAD/CAM software that streamlines ship design, engineering, manufacturing, and production information flow for shipyards.
Fully associative 3D product model that drives automatic generation of manufacturing outputs like CNC files and assembly plans
ShipConstructor (SSI.ships) is a specialized CAD/CAM software suite tailored for the shipbuilding and offshore industries, enabling comprehensive 3D modeling, engineering, and production management. It integrates hull, structure, outfitting, and manufacturing processes into a single associative model, automating workflows from design to fabrication. Shipyards use it to reduce errors, optimize material usage, and accelerate project timelines through advanced nesting, bending, and assembly tools.
Pros
- Deep industry-specific functionality for marine design and production
- Associative 3D model ensures changes propagate automatically across engineering and manufacturing
- Robust automation for nesting, profiling, and plate cutting reduces waste and labor
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring specialized training
- High upfront and ongoing costs for enterprise deployment
- Primarily focused on shipbuilding, less versatile for non-marine applications
Best For
Mid-to-large shipyards and marine engineering firms seeking integrated design-to-production workflows.
Pricing
Enterprise licensing with perpetual seats starting at ~$20,000+ per user plus annual maintenance; custom quotes required.
NAPA
specializedAdvanced software suite for ship structural design, production engineering, optimization, and operations management.
Integrated design-to-production pipeline that automates data transfer from 3D hull models to manufacturing plans, minimizing errors and rework.
NAPA (napa.fi) provides advanced software solutions for the maritime industry, with NAPA Production serving as a specialized suite for shipyard management. It streamlines production planning, nesting, panel development, workshop management, and quality assurance, integrating closely with NAPA's design tools for hull modeling and optimization. This enables efficient shipbuilding processes from design to delivery, particularly for complex vessels.
Pros
- Seamless integration between design and production workflows
- Advanced nesting and material optimization reducing waste
- Robust analytics and reporting for production efficiency
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring specialized training
- High upfront costs and complex implementation
- Less suitable for small-scale or non-complex shipyard operations
Best For
Large shipyards specializing in high-value, complex vessel construction that benefit from end-to-end design-to-production integration.
Pricing
Enterprise licensing model with custom pricing upon request; annual subscriptions typically range from €50,000+ depending on modules and scale.
FORAN
specializedFull 3D CAD/CAM/CAE system supporting all phases of shipbuilding from design to production and maintenance.
Single associative 3D product model that propagates changes instantly across all engineering disciplines and production deliverables
FORAN, developed by SENER, is a comprehensive 3D CAD/CAM/CAE software suite designed primarily for ship design, engineering, and production support in shipyards. It enables integrated modeling of hull structures, outfitting, machinery, piping, and electrical systems, with automated generation of production drawings, nests, and manufacturing data. While excelling in technical design-to-production workflows, it offers limited broader shipyard management capabilities such as full ERP, scheduling, or inventory control.
Pros
- Fully integrated 3D model across all ship disciplines for design consistency
- Automated production outputs like nests and NC data streamline manufacturing
- Proven track record in major global shipyards with robust engineering accuracy
Cons
- Steep learning curve and extensive training required for users
- High licensing and customization costs for enterprise deployment
- Lacks comprehensive modules for non-engineering management like procurement or HR
Best For
Large shipyards with dedicated engineering teams focused on advanced CAD/CAM integration for design-to-production processes.
Pricing
Custom enterprise licensing based on modules, seats, and shipyard size; typically high-cost (contact SENER for quotes, often $100K+ annually for full suites).
Cadmatic
specialized3D design, engineering, and information management software optimized for shipbuilding and offshore projects.
Model-based production engineering that automatically generates workshop drawings, profiles, and CNC data from 3D models
Cadmatic is a comprehensive 3D CAD/CAE software suite designed specifically for the shipbuilding and marine industries, enabling detailed hull, structural, and outfitting design. It supports the full lifecycle from concept modeling to production planning, including automated generation of workshop drawings, nesting, and CNC outputs. The platform integrates design data with manufacturing processes to optimize shipyard workflows and reduce errors.
Pros
- Powerful 3D modeling for complex ship structures and outfitting
- Seamless design-to-production workflow with automated manufacturing data
- Strong clash detection and collaboration tools for large teams
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to specialized CAD interface
- High implementation and customization costs
- Limited focus on non-engineering shipyard functions like HR or full ERP
Best For
Mid-to-large shipyards requiring integrated 3D design and production engineering capabilities.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing via quote; typically starts at $50,000+ annually for licenses with maintenance.
Smart 3D
enterprise3D modeling and engineering platform for detailed design, fabrication planning, and construction of ships and marine structures.
Integrated multi-discipline 3D automation that generates production-ready models with minimal manual input
Smart 3D by Hexagon is an advanced 3D design and engineering platform specifically tailored for shipbuilding, offshore, and plant industries. It provides comprehensive tools for modeling ship structures, outfitting, piping, equipment, and HVAC systems in a fully integrated 3D environment. While excelling in detailed design and automation, it supports clash-free modeling and data handover to manufacturing, but is more design-centric than full shipyard operations management.
Pros
- Exceptional automation for 3D modeling of structures, piping, and equipment
- Robust clash detection and validation tools ensuring design accuracy
- Strong integration with fabrication and manufacturing workflows
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring specialized training
- High cost unsuitable for small to mid-sized shipyards
- Primarily design-focused, lacking broader ERP or production planning capabilities
Best For
Large shipyards and engineering firms handling complex vessel designs that require precise 3D modeling and automation.
Pricing
Enterprise subscription licensing with custom quotes; typically high-cost, starting in the tens of thousands annually per user/seat.
IFS Applications
enterpriseEnterprise resource planning system with specialized modules for shipyard operations, maintenance, and project management.
Integrated Shipbuilding Project Controls with real-time progress tracking and earned value management tailored for vessel construction milestones
IFS Applications is a comprehensive ERP platform tailored for asset-heavy industries, including shipyards, offering modules for project management, supply chain, manufacturing execution, and maintenance repair & overhaul (MRO). It supports the full shipbuilding lifecycle from design and procurement to construction, commissioning, and in-service support. Shipyards leverage its configurable workflows, real-time analytics, and integration with CAD/PLM systems for efficient vessel production and fleet management.
Pros
- Robust integration across shipyard operations including ERP, PLM, and MES
- Scalable for large-scale vessel projects with advanced project controls
- Strong industry-specific shipbuilding and MRO capabilities with AI-driven insights
Cons
- Complex implementation and steep learning curve for non-ERP experts
- High customization needs for shipyard-specific processes
- Premium pricing may not suit smaller shipyards
Best For
Large shipyards and naval contractors managing complex, multi-year vessel construction and lifecycle maintenance projects.
Pricing
Enterprise custom pricing; subscription-based starting at $100,000+ annually depending on modules, users, and deployment (cloud/on-premise).
Shipyard 4D
specializedIntegrated planning and management software for shipyard production, scheduling, resources, and progress tracking.
4D planning engine that layers time-based simulations onto 3D models for precise construction sequencing and clash detection
Shipyard 4D by Alcyon Europe is a comprehensive enterprise software suite tailored for shipyard operations, integrating modules for production planning, resource management, supply chain logistics, and financial control. It supports the full shipbuilding lifecycle from design integration to delivery, with tools for 3D/4D modeling, nesting optimization, and real-time project tracking. Ideal for complex naval and commercial shipbuilding projects, it emphasizes process automation and compliance with industry standards.
Pros
- Highly specialized modules for shipyard-specific workflows like nesting and outfitting
- Strong integration with CAD/CAM systems and ERP functions
- Robust reporting and real-time dashboards for project oversight
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to its complexity and customization needs
- Limited public documentation and user community support
- On-premise heavy with less emphasis on modern cloud scalability
Best For
Mid-to-large shipyards handling complex vessel construction that require deep industry-specific tools over user-friendly interfaces.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing via quote; typically perpetual licenses starting at €50,000+ with annual maintenance fees.
Dockmaster
specializedAll-in-one management solution for boatyards and small shipyards handling service orders, inventory, billing, and scheduling.
Real-time occupancy and reservation management with automated waitlist handling
Dockmaster is a cloud-based management software primarily designed for marinas and boatyards, offering tools for slip reservations, billing, work order management, maintenance scheduling, and inventory tracking. It streamlines daily operations like customer check-ins, payment processing, and service dispatching, with reporting features to monitor occupancy and revenue. While effective for smaller marine facilities, it lacks advanced capabilities for large-scale shipyard projects such as complex vessel repair planning or heavy industrial inventory.
Pros
- Intuitive cloud interface with mobile access for field staff
- Strong work order and maintenance scheduling for boatyard repairs
- Integrated billing and reporting for efficient revenue management
Cons
- Limited scalability for large shipyards with complex projects
- Customization options are basic and require add-ons
- Reporting lacks depth for advanced shipyard analytics
Best For
Small to mid-sized boatyards and marinas managing recreational boats, repairs, and storage rather than industrial shipbuilding.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing starting around $150/month per location, scaling with slips/users and modules; free demo available.
Star Shipyard
otherModular software for shipyard job management, quoting, inventory control, purchasing, and financial reporting.
Advanced workshop floor management with barcode-enabled materials and labor tracking
Star Shipyard, developed by Star Software (starsoftware.com.au), is a specialized ERP solution tailored for shipyards handling repair, maintenance, and construction projects. It provides tools for job quoting, scheduling, inventory management, time tracking, and invoicing to streamline yard operations. The software emphasizes workshop management and cost control, making it suitable for marine industry professionals seeking operational efficiency.
Pros
- Comprehensive job costing and inventory tracking
- Strong Australian maritime compliance features
- Reliable local support and regular updates
Cons
- Limited scalability for very large shipyards
- Interface feels dated compared to modern SaaS tools
- Fewer third-party integrations
Best For
Medium-sized shipyards in Australia focused on repair and maintenance operations.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically AUD 5,000–15,000 annually depending on modules and users.
Conclusion
The top-performing AVEVA Marine leads the pack, offering a comprehensive digital solution that spans ship design, engineering, production planning, and lifecycle management. Its closest contenders, ShipConstructor and NAPA, stand out with specialized strengths—ShipConstructor streamlining integrated CAD/CAM workflows and NAPA excelling in structural design and optimization—making them strong alternatives for specific operational needs. Together, these tools highlight the transformative potential of modern shipyard management software.
Explore AVEVA Marine to experience a seamless, end-to-end approach to shipyard operations and elevate your workflow efficiency.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison