About OYD
It takes a rebellious curiosity to blend beauty and engineering so seamlessly.
Fluid designs meeting functional demands is at the heart of what we do. With a builder’s mindset, we look beyond convention, asking sharper questions and delivering documentation that is precise, reliable, and ready for the shipyard.
OYD History
From first sketches to sea trials, we remain a steady partner – guiding projects with clarity, commitment, and an unwavering respect for both our clients and the craft of yacht building.
2000–2003
Ian Ombres began his career in the maritime industry as an apprentice boat builder for legendary sport fish builder Willis Custom Yachts. Igniting a passion for boat building he gained fundamental knowledge of yacht craftsmanship.
2003–2008
At Seaport Yacht Services and having obtained his master captains license, Ian works as a delivery captain for the likes of the Hatteras Factory and others, transporting yachts across the Southeast U.S., Caribbean, and Mexico. Simultaneously balancing a professional maritime career while completing a dual degree in Business and Economics at Florida State University.
2008–2009
Realizing his passion for boat building and design upon graduating FSU, Ian enrolls in the Yacht Design Program at The Landing School in Kennebunkport, Maine. Earning a degree in Yacht Design and Small Craft Engineering, further developing technical expertise and a design-driven approach to boatbuilding.
2009–2011
Ian returns to work with Willis Custom Yachts lead Naval Architect at Padden Design Engineering, in Port Salerno, Florida, a hub of world class custom sport fish builders. Here the design firm services such legendary builders as Willis Custom Yachts, Jim Smith, Garlington, and Whiticar to name just a few.
2011–2014
With a desire to spend as much time on the build floor, Ian joins Lazzara Yachts as lead in house yacht designer. A perfect fit, as Dick Lazzara’s ethos that to be a great designer you must first be a great builder.
2014–2016
With the unfortunate closure of Lazzara Yachts, Ian becomes lead in house yacht designer at Chris-Craft. Leading the prototype design and boatbuilding team, updating existing models and creating award-winning new vessels for the iconic American brand.
2016
Ombres Yacht Design (OYD) is launched after securing a design/engineering contract for a series of custom superyachts for an Asian shipyard.
2018–2021
OYD is Commissioned to design a fleet of 10 yachts for Euro Marine Group and the newly minted Lazzara Yachts at their shipyard in Antalya, Turkey. OYD designs received multiple international awards and patents, further establishing OYD on the global stage.
2021–Present – A Global Yacht Design Legacy
With projects spanning four continents and collaborations with both custom and production builders, Ombres Yacht Design continues to set new standards in yacht innovation and excellence.
