NAS - Key Persons


Adrian Farrugia

Job Titles:
  • Marine Engineer
Adrian pursued his academic studies in Marine Engineering in Malta and is currently furthering his studies with the University of Strathclyde, UK. Upon completing his Bachelor`s Degree, he kick-started his engineering career through an internship in Germany. On returning to Malta, he joined a reputable local maritime company as a Trainee Engineer working closely under the supervision of the company`s Technical Superintendent, dealing with the company`s ISO and ISM procedures, assisting in refits and gaining onboard experience. He later pursued a Commercial Vessel Engineer qualification issued by the Malta Flag Administration which he utilised to work as an Engineer onboard the company`s fleet within the territorial waters of Malta. Adrian joined NAS in 2022, where he assists in onboard surveys, certification, and plan reviews. In his free time, Adrian enjoys playing the guitar and spending time with his family and friends.

Alessandro Taylor

Job Titles:
  • Associate - Survey & Certification
At an early age Alessandro discovers an interest for sailing boats by playing on dinghies in the bay opposite his grandparents' house. More than ten years later, he comes across the course in Yacht design and marine engineering offered by the University of Genova; this appears to be the perfect combination of his passion for architecture and ever-lasting interest for boats. It proves to be the right decision, Alessandro understands that the world of sailing, boat design and construction is one he belongs to. The desire to combine practical experience to theoretical knowledge is typical of Alessandro; during his studies he keeps working on sailing yachts, visits multiple design studios as an intern and obtains scholarships to complete part of his masters abroad. In 2020 Alessandro arrives in Malta to write his masters' thesis in collaboration with NAS; after successfully presenting the project in April of the following year, he joins the NAS team as a full-time engineer. His contribution to the company spreads over different fields but mainly focuses on surveying yachts under construction. You will hardly find Alessandro at home in his free time, chances are that he will be doing some activity in the water such as surfing, swimming or diving.

Analise Cordina

Job Titles:
  • Office Assistant
  • Accounts & Finance Administrator
Analise joined NAS as an office assistant at a young age. Her positive approach saw her take on added responsibilities in office support and co-ordination roles and she is today responsible for the accounting and finance of the Company. Analise is meticulous in her duties but there is no denying that she is as pleasant character as they come and dealing with her is always easy and clear. Outside of the office you will most likely find Analise caring for animals needing care and attention. She is known to have a particular soft spot for stray cats.

Gabriel Gauci

Job Titles:
  • Partner - Survey & Certification
Gabriel joined NAS in 2016 after successfully completing his undergraduate studies in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Malta, which was followed by a Masters in Naval Architecture at the University of Southampton in the UK. Over the past years, he has gained vast experience in a number of sectors within the maritime industry, including small crafts, yachts and commercial ships, focusing on survey and certification services along with naval architecture projects. This lead to his appointment as a Malta Government Surveyor of Ships and surveyor to Class INSB. Gabriel also oversees a team of NAS service engineers covering inspection and certification of loose gear, lifting gear, lifeboat, rescue boats and davits, amongst others. Amongst his areas of expertise are corrosion prevention systems and technologies. Gabriel enjoys his free time pursuing his passion for music and playing the violin, as well as his latest sport interest of tennis.

Georgiana Nichifor

Job Titles:
  • Marine Design Engineer
Georgiana started her career right after graduating from Mechanical Engineering within the Industrial and Maritime Faculty at a global company with shipbuilding facilities worldwide. This led to a career starting as a Design Engineer in the shipyard's Piping Department and later saw her actively involved in the system design of specialized ships as well as passenger cruise vessels. On finalizing her Masters in Offshore Oil and Gas Technology, Georgiana was recruited to join a nuclear power plant project in the UK where she broadened her knowledge in the field of piping and instrumentation. Following the nuclear project, she chose to return to shipbuilding industry and became a member of the Mechanical team on a military project for the US Army. Willing to gain experience in Oil and Gas, she accepted to enrol in an LNG project in Paris where she was part of the Piping department before she joined NAS. Outside of the office you might encounter Georgiana on the mountain bike tracks, kayaking and surely on her snowboard during winter.

Harry Grima

Job Titles:
  • Architect
  • Naval Architect
Harry is a naval architect having completed his masters in Ship Science at the University of Southampton. He first formed part of the NAS team as an intern the summer after he graduated from his bachelors in mechanical engineering and is now an integral part of the Design & Engineering team. Mechanical engineering introduced Harry to the technical subjects regarding the maritime industry which he instantly grew to love. His most notable achievement to date was when his final year project was awarded the RINA Student Naval Architect Award. His interest for the maritime industry was also strengthened having always had family and friends involved in the sector. He is a keen learner, problem solver, and likes to think he is funny (we're not too sure about this though!). In his free time, you would probably find Harry working out (be it in the gym or outdoors) or enjoying a night out with his friends!

Jacques Azzopardi

Job Titles:
  • Marine Engineer
Having joined NAS during a Summer internship in 2021 Jacques realised that he was hooked. The spark had taken place and a maritime career was on the horizon. On successfully completing his studies at the University of Malta he joined the NAS Engineering department and is today actively involved on projects related to design and engineering, such as stability assessments, structural design and overseeing ongoing projects. He is continually looking forward to undertaking the next challenge to gain more experience and grow in his career, something NAS truly encourages. In his free time Jacques enjoys spending time outdoors engaging in activities such as hiking and kayaking.

Jan Bonello

Job Titles:
  • Partner - Survey & Certification
Graduating as a Mechanical Engineer from the University of Malta in 2015, Jan joined the NAS team on completion of his studies as a graduate engineer. Thereafter, he undertook a part-time Master of Science Degree in Marine Technology (with a specialisation in Marine Engineering), ultimately being awarded a prize as the top graduating student of the programme. Jan has since become an appointed surveyor of the Maltese Flag. His duties include flag survey and certification, specialist yacht surveys including detailed and thorough condition evaluations, investigative damage surveys and pre-purchase surveys on yachts and small craft. Furthermore, Jan is also a FROSIO accredited expert in paint coating technology and corrosion prevention. During his free time, Jan enjoys spending time on his speedboat and the occasional 5-a-side football match with his friends. Being a BSAC Certified diver, he also enjoys exploring the vast underwater marvels and wrecks that the Maltese Islands have to offer.

Jean Paul Farrugia

Job Titles:
  • Partner - Engineering
Having joined NAS from its very inception, Jean Paul's passionate service in the nautical field is a testament to his dedication and expertise. Graduating from the University of Malta in 2012, his journey began long before, as he immersed himself in boat building alongside his father from a very young age. As a hands-on engineer, Jean Paul's approach is marked by a blend of technical talent and practical insight. Following the Company's strategic vision, he co-founded the engineering department at NAS, a department he continues to lead as a partner to this day. During his undergraduate studies, Jean Paul's ingenuity shone as he designed, built, and successfully tested a hydrofoil prototype, earning him the prestigious RINA Student Naval Architect Award. An achievement treasured to this day as it is of particular relevance to the advances being witnessed in the field. A warranted mechanical engineer, Jean Paul's expertise encompasses structural design, stability analyses, and the meticulous management of refit projects. Beyond his professional pursuits, Jean Paul finds solace on the open waters, indulging in his passions for sailing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing. He cherishes moments spent with his wife and children, valuing every opportunity to create lasting memories.

John Rodo

Job Titles:
  • Marine Designer
John embarked on his carrier as an apprentice at the Malta Drydocks. He completed the Shipbuilding Technician course at the MCAST Polytechnic. In his prime, John preferred serving as a commercial diver before settling in the drawing office. After the dissolution of the shipyards, John joined NAS in its initial phase. Here he found fertile soil to enhance his experience. The NAS team is enthusiastic and avant-garde, however John still enthusiastically defends the use of empirical, time-proven standards! Apart from work, John is interested in all disciplines known to Man, particularly philosophy, music, anatomy, Tai Chi etc. He often quotes Chaucer, "Life so short, the crafts so long to learn".

Jordan Sammut

Job Titles:
  • Marine Engineer
Jordan is a Marine Engineer graduate from the MCAST Engineering Institute. Having been passionate about boats from a young age he finds his role as small craft surveyor within NAS as a natural professional transition. He handles client communications and is a thorough person in his duties whilst making it a point to be as clear and possible when explaining technical matters to clients. In his free time Jordan spends most of the time with his friends planning the next travels. Last of which was taking part in the 2023 POI Rally together with another 4 Maltese adventurists.

Kurt Gutteridge - CEO

Job Titles:
  • Director
  • Managing Partner
Kurt started his maritime career at a young age as an engineer cadet on general cargo ships. He later pursued academic studies in Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering at the University of Newcastle upon Tyne in the UK, furthering specialisation in Marine transport management. During this period Kurt was awarded the prestigious RW Mann and Burrill Awards for academic excellence. On returning to Maltese shores, he joined the flag Administration as a flag surveyor dealing with Statutory matters on Malta flagged ships and yachts. He was later responsible for the drafting and implementation of the first Malta Commercial Yacht Code - an area which the Malta flag had not been geared for until that stage. The subsequent years saw a considerable growth in the registered tonnage, steadily prompting Malta to the prominent regulatory role it holds today. Kurt later joined the private industry as a Surveyor and Naval Architect on various projects ranging from super yacht conversions, ship surveys and certification and ship regulatory consultancy. Kurt founded NAS in 2011 and has since been joined by a formidable growing team. During his (little) free time Kurt enjoys engaging in physical activity and above all spending time with his family.

Kurt Mizzi

Job Titles:
  • Partner - Research, Development & Innovation
At a young age, Kurt moved to the UK to pursue his career as a Naval Architect and Marine Engineer and initiated his undergraduate studies at Strathclyde University in Glasgow. His passion for the subject has driven him to further his studies and acquire a doctorate in Naval architecture and Marine engineering at the same institution. His specialisation and expertise lie in hydrodynamics and CFD analytic techniques with a focus on activities dealing with improving the energy efficiency of marine vessels. Kurt joined NAS Ltd. in 2017 and has introduced advanced CFD procedures and numerical predictions together with specialist engineering expertise to the company. He further represents NAS Ltd. in international EU research projects that generally focus on the development of energy efficient sea-faring vessels. Kurt is actively engaged in state-of-the-art research to contribute to a more efficient, cleaner and safer marine environment. He generally enjoys his free time with family and friends and following sports over a wee dram of whiskey.

Mariana Zammit Munro

Job Titles:
  • Research Assistant
Mariana graduated from the University of Malta as a Mechanical engineer and is currently a PhD student at the same university. Her doctorate studies are focused on the analysis of cavitation and the effect of this phenomenon on the forces generated by lifting surfaces, such as marine propellers and rudders. After having carried out an internship with NAS, she is now actively engaged in the company's research activities as a research assistant within the RD&I department of NAS. Mariana enjoys her free time playing volleyball with Swieqi Phoenix Volleyball Club and also represents the Maltese National Volleyball team in international competitions.

Peter Spiteri Gonzi

Job Titles:
  • Branch Partner / Principal Surveyor at NAS Antibes
Peter is an authorized flag surveyor to Malta, Liberia, St. Kitts and Nevis, MECAL/UK MCA. He has over 30 years of experience starting from Maierform GmbH in Bremen, Germany in the early 90s as a naval architect, plan approval expert in Paris and Hamburg to senior surveyor / lead auditor in Rotterdam and as Country Chief Executive to Bureau Veritas in Malta. His expertise is onboard marine classification/statutory surveying /auditing, inspector and train the trainer ISM, ISPS, MLC, STCW for all commercial vessels including MODU offshore units, all convention vessels and superyachts. He is also a management systems certification lead auditor in ISO 9k, 14k standards. Besides the above, Peter is also a circumnavigator and has carried out on his own Hallberg Rassy 352 over 4yrs crossing the Mediterranean Sea followed by the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian oceans. Peter remains very active in the sailing/boating industry both as a sailor himself and onboard numerous yachts/ships as a flag inspector or as a consultant.

Richard Maniscalco

Job Titles:
  • Service Engineer
With more than 20 years of experience in mechanical engineering, Richard is one of our team members specialising in hydraulics and lifting equipment inspections, maintenance, repairs and certification. His schedules runs mostly on-board vessels calling Malta ports, shipyards and anchorages. Once stepping back ashore you'll find him preparing a fire for a good hearty BBQ which he enjoys cooking for his friends and family.

Ryan Curmi

Job Titles:
  • Service Engineer
Through his strong academic background in mechanical engineering, training programmes completed and vast hands-on experience Ryan is a warranted engineer who leads the inspection and certification of lifeboats, rescue boat and davits fitted on merchant ships and yachts, Billy Pugh offshore transfer baskets and certification of loose gear and lifting gear. You will never find Ryan sitting still, as he seeks to fill his time participating in several voluntary organisations, co-ordinating activities, playing music and automotive restoration, amongst many hobbies.

Selmar Spijker

Job Titles:
  • Senior Associate - Design
Selmar graduated as an industrial designer at the Technical University of Delft, the Netherlands, and subsequently attained a Masters degree in Marine and Yacht design through the University of Genova at the La Spezia. Selmar's maritime career started off as an all-round designer and draftsman for a small performance sailing yacht builder in Plymouth, England, taking up a wide range of tasks from concept design to onsite build coordination. Following this experience he moved back to his home country of the Netherlands, working as a superyacht designer with one of the leading yacht design firms. This was his formal introduction to the superyacht industry, engaged in a range of design projects from 40m series builds to 70m+ full custom designs. Intent on further developing his technical foundations, he made the step to a globally renown shipyard, as a design and proposal engineer, where he was actively involved in many preliminary vessel design developments, ranging from full custom proposals to the standardization of the in-built series. Selmar joined NA.S in 2020, to spearhead the newbuild design department. Today within NAS, Selmar is focusing on further developing NAS's design profile, ranging from functional workboats to superyachts, covering initial concept design, naval architecture, and basic engineering. During his free time, Selmar enjoys travelling and spending time on the sea, being an avid sailor and boating enthusiast.

Timothy Borg

Job Titles:
  • Naval Architect
Timothy completed his Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Malta. During his third year of studies, he studied naval architecture, which sparked his interest in the field. His MSc in Naval Architecture at the University of Southampton gave him the opportunity to work on several projects to apply his knowledge to real-world scopes. This experience solidified his passion and gave him a strong foundation for his career. Prior to joining NAS, Timothy gained hands-on experience at a shipyard as a project coordinator, acquiring valuable communication, time management and attention to detail skills. Subsequently, he joined a UK-based naval architecture consultancy specialising in floating offshore wind projects. There, he conducted hydrodynamic and stability analyses, mooring analysis and subsea cable design. In his free time, Timothy enjoys going to the gym, 3D printing, traveling, and pursuing his passion for photography, videography.

Tracy Zammit

Job Titles:
  • Office Administrator
Having gained professional experience in the busy construction and interior finishings industry, Tracy today covers a role of office administrator ensuring projects and queries are followed up and that time lines are observed. She handles client communications to ensure seamless processes at all times and also acts as PA support to the Director. Tracy acts as focal point on ISO procedures and compliance matters. In her free time Tracy will probably be planning her next travels with family and friends.

Wayne Formosa

Job Titles:
  • Marine Engineer
Wayne completed his academic studies in Malta, where he joined a reputable 3D printing company as an Additive Manufacturing Technician through an internship. Upon completion of his Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering, he got inspired to direct his career towards Naval Architecture and pursued a Master's Degree at the University of Malta. Wayne focused his research on wind-assisted ship propulsion, with other fields of interests including offshore wind power and energy storage. During the time span of his post-graduate research, he was given the opportunity to visit the hydrodynamics laboratories and other research facilities of the University of Genoa, University of Strathclyde and University of Delft. He also attended several specialist courses related to Marine Engineering, namely regarding energy efficiency, virtual towing tank applications, and sea keeping analysis. Wayne joined NAS in 2023 and is actively involved in the vessel surveys and certification services. He spends his free time with his family and friends and gaming. Other pastimes include hiking and photography.