Independent Quality
Assurance for
Superyacht New Builds
3D laser scanning and independent Naval Architect analysis at every critical build stage — detecting issues early, reducing rework and creating a permanent digital asset for your vessel.
Get a Fixed-Price Quote →Objective verification at every stage of the build
Digital Dry Dock's Independent Quality Assurance Package gives shipyards, owners and project managers an accurate picture of build quality throughout the construction process.
Using advanced 3D laser scanning and independent analysis by our Naval Architects, we identify issues early — helping reduce rework, improve build accuracy and keep projects on schedule.
As an independent third party, we provide objective verification of build quality using accurate as-built data, rather than visual inspection alone. Our team compare the build against the design with millimetre accuracy and present findings as clear 2D drawings and 3D point cloud models.
Independent of the Yard
Objective Naval Architect-led QA — not carried out by the build team. Evidence your insurers and owners can rely on.
Millimetre Accuracy
Leica RTC360 survey-grade scanners capture ~500 locations per visit, producing a complete, measurable digital twin.
Fixed Price Per Metre
Simple, transparent pricing by vessel length — no surprises. Survey, processing and delivery all included.
Proven to improve build quality and reduce rework
Our 3D laser scanning services have helped shipyards and owners identify issues early across new builds, maintenance and refit projects. Here are real examples of problems we have caught and resolved:
Bulkhead and structural alignment — Detecting misalignments before they affect joinery installation and later build stages.
Stabiliser foundation alignment — Verifying correct alignment early in the build to prevent costly remedial work. Symmetric alignment is critical for function.
Hot works verification — Confirming hot works are complete before progressing to the next stage of construction.
Filler and fairing analysis — Measuring filler application to prevent overuse and ensure compliance with project specifications.
Paint analysis — Comparing the actual paint surface area against contract estimates.
Component fit verification — Confirming hull openings, pipework, handrails and fabricated parts match the as-built vessel before installation. We have identified incorrectly sized tender doors before they left the manufacturer.
Engine bed and A-bracket alignment — Verifying alignment before machinery installation.
Noise and vibration — Structural misalignment identified at block stage, preventing knock-on effects through joinery and engineering systems.
Custom part manufacture — Using accurate scan data to design and manufacture replacement or bespoke components for vessels in service, reducing the need for dry docking.
Refit planning — Using archived 3D point cloud data to plan maintenance and refit work while the vessel remains in operation.
Stability model validation — Comparing stability models with the as-built vessel to verify design accuracy.
Tolerance verification — Comparing hull, superstructure and structural elements against the shipyard's design models, updating design data where discrepancies are found.
"The most powerful application is virtual installation — it is far cheaper and faster to check the virtual fit of a large door or complete superstructure than to have it hanging from gantry cranes before discovering the mistake."
Left: Colour deviation map showing filler application thickness across the hull surface. Right: Side-profile point cloud aligned to design model for tolerance comparison.
Accurate real-world data at three key build stages
We undertake a complete scan of the exterior and interior of the vessel during a 3-day survey at each build stage, measuring at approximately 500 scan locations. Two surveyors are deployed to minimise time on the vessel and avoid disruption to production.
Hull Guard
- Full exterior & interior scan — primary structure and engineering foundations
- Build tolerance check vs 3D design model
- Block alignment vs 2D block arrangement drawing
- Filling & fairing deviation maps for paint contractors
- Engine bed, stabiliser foundation & A-bracket alignment checks
- As-built dimensions for anchor pockets & hull opening doors
Filling & Fairing
- Re-scan to measure filler application and prevent overuse
- Warranty support data for future paint-related claims
- Accurate dimensions for contractors, metalworkers & glass suppliers
- Eliminates individual supplier survey visits and associated disruption
- Optional: interior & engineering spaces with insulation in place
Pre-Flood
- Complete vessel record for warranty & long-term management
- 360° HDR photography at every scan location
- Full 3D model for owner's team — measure & brief suppliers remotely
- Technical engineering spaces captured with photography
- Expert witness snapshot of vessel at completion