The Naval Architect 2026 - RINA Membership Event

Shaping the Future of Maritime Through People, Innovation & Professional Excellence 

Join us for The Naval Architect 2026, RINA's flagship membership event, bringing together naval architects, maritime professionals, industry leaders, academics and students for a day of discussion, knowledge sharing and networking. Building on the success of last year's event, the programme has been shaped by member feedback to deliver even more opportunities to engage in the issues that matter most to our profession. 

In 2025, the event welcomed 147 attendees from 72 organisations, including representatives from around 20 international organisations and four shipowner/operator companies. Delegates came from leading maritime organisations such as BAE Systems, Babcock International, Lloyd's Register, MARIN and CMA CGM, alongside academics, regulators and naval architects from across the sector. 

Taking place in Southampton, the event will explore the key challenges and opportunities facing the maritime sector, from career development and diversity to decarbonisation, autonomous vessels, artificial intelligence, safety and regulation. 

Whether you are an experienced professional, an emerging leader or a student entering the industry, this event offers a valuable opportunity to gain insights, expand your network and help shape the future of maritime. 

What to Expect:

Career Development & Inclusion  

Our opening session will feature presentations and panel discussions focused on developing careers in maritime, STEM engagement, diversity and inclusion, and supporting professionals through career breaks and career transitions.  

Innovation & Environmental Sustainability  

Hear from leading voices across the industry as they discuss decarbonisation pathways, emerging technologies, autonomous vessels, small craft innovation and the growing role of artificial intelligence in maritime operations and design. 

IMO & Maritime Safety  

Gain valuable insights into the latest developments in regulation, compliance and safety. This session will examine key issues impacting the global maritime community and the future direction of industry standards. 

Membership Update 

Introduced following member feedback from The Naval Architect 2025, this dedicated session will provide updates from RINA's membership, professional affairs and publications committees. Learn more about ongoing initiatives, future priorities and how members can become more involved in shaping the institution. 

The Members Hour  

Join fellow members for an open discussion on the future of RINA and the wider maritime profession. Share your perspectives, influence future initiatives and contribute to the development of the membership experience. 

Why Attend? 

• Connect with maritime professionals from across the industry.
• Engage in discussions that shape the future of naval architecture and maritime engineering.
• Gain practical insights into innovation, sustainability, regulation and safety.
• Influence the future of RINA through dedicated member feedback sessions.
• Expand your professional network with peers, industry leaders and emerging talent.
• Enjoy informal networking throughout the day.

Get your Organisation involved 

Sponsorship opportunities are available exclusively to RINA Corporate Partners and Universities, providing a focused platform to showcase expertise, strengthen visibility and connect with RINA members.