Oceanco shares some of the options available for onboard technology that could have come straight out of the pages of a spy novel.
For custom-built superyachts, there are some owners who choose to opt for secret-service level security and privacy onboard, maybe because they enjoy cutting edge gadgetry or they wish to continue their regular lifestyle while at sea. From drone blocking force fields to motion-detecting smart floors, the kinds of futuristic technologies we are used to seeing in action films are not so far from the reality of today’s top-level security and privacy options for large custom superyachts.
Oceanco new reception
“When it comes to creating a fully bespoke superyacht, we are accustomed to the challenges of specialist requests such as these. James Bond had ‘Q’ to supply his outlandish gadgets; superyacht owners have ‘O’, aka Oceanco,” comments Paris Baloumis, Oceanco’s Marketing Director. “Although the company naturally maintains full confidentiality regarding any specific client’s requirements as well as their identities. “We bring in experts from inside and outside yachting to consult on high-security projects and adopt technologies from other sectors. What’s more, we take our own security at Oceanco very seriously to maintain privacy during the construction of our yachts; the shipyard is fitted out with high-security systems, too.”
And with increasing autonomy and range on today’s vessels, many are heading off the beaten track and into remote waters where local medical back-up might be in shorter supply. In response, the grandest and most well-equipped superyachts can be kitted out with fully functioning hospitals, manned by dedicated medical staff, to provide reassurance.
Kaos (ex-Jubilee)
Citadel Rooms
In the extremely rare case that an unwanted visitor boards their yacht, some owners like the reassurance of a secure location to go to. These places are known as ‘citadels’, and they were first put to use in commercial shipping before crossing over to yachting.
Citadels are kitted out with independent, overriding access to the yacht’s navigational and satellite communications systems, so even when you don’t have access to the bridge, you can maintain full control. The rooms themselves are fitted with reinforced doors and have ballistic protection on the surrounding walls. Inside, they are equipped with their own ventilation systems as well as water and food supplies to provide total self-sufficiency.
Emergency escape ‘life-pods’ for a rapid getaway
And the next generation of citadels could be distinctly more mobile. Like crossing a lifeboat with a space ship, these emergency escape ‘Life-Pods’ provide a rapid getaway. The watertight pods are constructed from high-tech materials to resist impact and feature built-in GPS trackers, temperature and fire barrier controls, and air purification systems.
Anti-drone systems
In recent years, drones have been making headlines for their interference with commercial airports, and the military have been particularly keen to curb their capability to spy on top secret locations. As well as being a handy tool for the paparazzi to get up-close shots of a superyacht’s private enclaves and the guests within them, those involved in the murky waters of industrial espionage can thank drones for greatly increasing their capabilities, too.
But a new generation of devices to detect and defeat these drones is emerging to neutralize the occasional threats to privacy and security on yachts. One such defense system identifies any commercial drones in operation within a 20 kilometer radius, providing GPS positions of both the drone and the pilot as well as an indication of said drone’s heading and speed.
Outfitting facilities
A 500-meter electronic ‘exclusion zone’ around the yacht
Once the drone threat has been confirmed, the system engages a 500-meter-plus electronic ‘exclusion zone’ around the yacht (not unlike the force fields we are used to seeing in sci-fi films) that blocks any unwanted airborne visitors. If the drone makes it to the perimeter of the exclusion zone, its controls and video feed are jammed, effectively rendering the pilot’s controls useless, and its ‘return to home’ function (which usually kicks in when the drone has a low battery) is triggered.
Acoustic deterrents
The Long-Range Acoustic Device, or LRAD for short, is an acoustic deterrent that was originally developed for military use. But as the threat of piracy to commercial shipping and yachting in certain areas such as the Gulf of Aden grew over recent decades, the device has been adopted to deter unwelcome visitors in non-military settings.
Intruder diver detectors
Think someone could sneak up on a superyacht by pulling on a wet suit and scuba gear? Think again, as some superyachts are choosing to install sonar systems that detect, track and identify divers or underwater vehicles approaching from any direction.
Keeping sonar environmentally friendly
Sonardyne’s Sentinel Intruder Detection Sonar is the world’s most widely deployed system of its kind, used by naval vessels, commercial harbors and luxury yachts alike. With a functional range of up to 900 meters for diver detection, it is man-portable, making it particularly quick to deploy, and it can even be placed on the yacht’s tenders to increase your scope of situational awareness. What’s more, the manufacturer has created the system to be environmentally friendly, so it won’t have an adverse effect on the local sea life.
Onboard hospitals
Perhaps a yacht is expecting to travel to remote regions where on-the-ground medical support is less accessible. Or maybe the Owners are more mature and have specific conditions that mean they seek the reassurance of an onsite doctor or nurse. Either way, an onboard hospital is not an uncommon request for custom superyacht builders.
Emergency facilities like a private hospital
Kitted out like an emergency room of a private hospital, they are equipped with oxygen tanks, defibrillators, specialized medications and intravenous fluids, while a number of yachts offer rehabilitation machines for injuries, such as decompression chambers for those who are planning on some serious scuba diving expeditions. And should a patient require further medical attention, most of today’s large yachts have a helipad with the possibility of bringing in medic air services to the yacht, or heli-evacuating them away to a larger facility ashore.
A doctor on-call
Remember the scene in Casino Royale where James Bond hooks himself up to a remote medical diagnostic system and the doctors talk him through his medical emergency with all his vitals up on their screens? Well, that scene is less fictional than you might at first have thought.
With the right diagnostic kit placed onboard, crew or even medical professionals can link up to a remote medical support line such as MedAire from International SOS, allowing a team of doctors to see the patient’s condition in real time and provide advice on procedures or medication in order to stabilize the patient.
Before an emergency has even arisen, the telehealth consultants will often provide guidance on medical room design and ventilation, lighting and medical wash facilities, as well as what diagnostic equipment to place onboard. Who needs the flying doctors when you can beam them into wherever you are in the world at a moment’s notice?
A cyber security net
Just as any home or office will likely choose to protect itself from outsiders accessing private and personal data, any superyacht could be vulnerable to cyber threats. With the increasing preponderance of wirelessly controlled systems featured onboard, those yachts that do not provide themselves with an added layer of technological security can leave themselves open to hacking. Oceanco works with a select range of top-tier cyber security professionals to ensure that its yachts are built with the kind of network protections that will keep its owners and crew safe, through a combination of initial risk assessments during the development phase of a project and ongoing upgrades as the digital landscape evolves.
Bravo Eugenia
Smart floors that track movement
Currently in development, these smart floors are like an upgraded surveillance system for the 21st century. A step beyond conventional security cameras, they are minimally invasive in the sense that they have no impact on an owner’s or guest’s experience of a room and their privacy within it, while also being able to alert the bridge if someone unexpectedly enters. And over time, the smart floor creates a digital pressure video of the visitor’s movement that can be tracked and re-evaluated. This makes them suitable for very private spaces, like bathrooms and bedrooms. The smart floors can also be used beyond security measures, to automatically switch lighting or heating and air conditioning systems on and off, allowing the yacht to become more energy efficient and therefore sustainable.
Oceanco was established in 1987 by a group of South African private investors led by CEO, Richard Hein. The company built hulls and superstructures in South Africa before transporting them to various facilities in The Netherlands for fittings. Oceanco Yachts builds luxury yachts from 80m to 110m in steel and aluminum.
Credits: Oceanco; Francisco Martinez; Tom Van Oossanen
Pershing celebrates four decades of operations, highlighting its evolution as a brand known for revolutionary yacht designs, advanced technology, and high performance. Founded in the early 1980s by Tilli Antonelli, Fausto Filippetti, and Giuliano Onori, the company initially focused on repairing laminated wood boats. A turning point came in 1985 with the launch of the Pershing 45, developed in collaboration with designer Fulvio De Simoni. This model combined speed and spaciousness, establishing Pershing as a leader in innovation.In 1998, Pershing joined the Ferretti Group, expanding its global presence. The brand further strengthened its international reach in 2012 under the Weichai Group, with notable growth in Asia, America, and Europe. Pershing has consistently introduced groundbreaking technologies, such as surface-piercing propeller systems and water jets with gas turbines, exemplified by the 5,100 HP Pershing 115 in 2004.The current fleet includes the Generation X series (5X–9X) and the GTX range (GTX116, GTX80, GTX70), balancing performance with comfort. The Pershing 140, the brand’s first all-aluminum superyacht, represents its most ambitious project to date.Production takes place in Mondolfo, Italy, at an 84,000-square-meter facility featuring advanced manufacturing and testing capabilities. The site includes dedicated areas for different model ranges, with processes such as PPG-certified dry painting ensuring high-quality finishes."By introducing technological innovations, unveiling revolutionary models, and evolving the brand’s storied shipyard, for forty years Pershing has continued to look beyond the horizon, to where the sea meets the future," the company stated.The Ferretti Group, led by Chief Executive Officer Alberto Galassi, is now one of the world’s leaders in the construction and sale of luxury yachts and pleasure vessels, with a unique portfolio of brands: Ferretti Yachts, Riva, Pershing, Itama, Mochi Craft, CRN, Custom Line and Wally.Credits: Ferretti Group
June 24, 2025
Overmarine Group has launched the fifth hull in its Mangusta Oceano 50 series, a 50-meter displacement yacht measuring just below 500 GT. The vessel features exterior and interior design by Alberto Mancini in collaboration with the shipyard's technical department.The yacht's layout emphasizes indoor-outdoor connectivity through floor-to-ceiling windows and expansive glazing. Accommodation includes five cabins, with a full-beam master suite on the main deck featuring an automated balcony. The lower deck houses four guest cabins and a gymnasium.Outdoor amenities comprise three connected beach club terraces, two swimming pools (including a 6.5×2.6-meter pool with countercurrent system), and multiple lounge/dining areas across the decks. The sun deck infinity pool creates a visual connection with the horizon.Power comes from twin MTU 12V 2000 M86 engines (1,700hp each), delivering a 16-knot top speed and 4,500-nautical-mile range at 11 knots. Moran Yachts facilitated the sale of this fifth Oceano 50 unit.The launch follows four previous deliveries in the Oceano 50 series since its introduction. Overmarine Group was founded in 1985 by the Balducci family. The shipyard builds open and displacement power superyachts under the Mangusta and Mangusta Oceanco brand names. Credits: Overmarine Group
June 23, 2025
Horizon Yachts has completed construction of the 15th hull in its FD80 series, a 24.6-meter motoryacht that will make its European debut at both the Cannes Yachting Festival and Monaco Yacht Show in September. This marks the first FD80 model specifically configured for the European market.The yacht features design collaboration with Dutch designer Cor D. Rover, incorporating an open-plan interior layout with floor-to-ceiling windows. Interior finishes include bleached teak and brushed gunmetal detailing throughout the cabinetry. The owner has specified several custom features, including large-format televisions in both the main saloon and master suite.Accommodations are arranged for eight guests across four staterooms, with a full-beam master suite on the main deck and three additional guest cabins below. The crew area accommodates four staff with direct access to the beach club.Exterior spaces include multiple social areas, with a hot tub and teppanyaki grill on the bridge deck, along with flexible aft deck space that can serve as either a lounge or tender storage area. The foredeck features a dining setup with sunpads.Powered by twin MTU engines, the yacht incorporates Horizon's Skyline superstructure design and a fully enclosed wheelhouse. The FD80 will be available for viewings at both European boat shows before delivery to its owner. The Fast Displacement series represents a significant portion of Horizon Yachts' current production output.Founded in 1987, Horizon Yachts has celebrated 35 years as one of the largest luxury yacht builders in the world as well as the number one builder in the Asia Pacific region. In the past three decades, Horizon has delivered over 855 luxury yachts, with more than 220 of these over 80 feet in length. Popular models ranging from 52 to 150 feet include motor yachts, superyachts, power catamarans, expedition yachts, and fast displacement motor yachts.Credits: Horizon Yachts
June 23, 2025
Dutch submersible manufacturer U-Boat Worx celebrates its 20th anniversary in 2025, having delivered 60 submarines worldwide since its 2005 founding. The company specializes in private, scientific, and commercial underwater vehicles, with models ranging from personal submersibles to research vessels."Since inception, the company has logged tens of thousands of dive hours," stated Wilbert Beilsma, Commercial Director at U-Boat Worx. The manufacturer maintains service hubs in Curaçao, Europe, and the U.S., providing lifecycle support including pilot training and spare parts for all models.Technical innovations include full acrylic pressure domes and lithium-ion battery systems. U-Boat Worx offers multiple ownership options: full purchase, leasing, wet lease (with crew), and charter arrangements. The company's submersibles are compatible with superyacht platforms, with integration services available.Current operations span private exploration, marine research, and emerging defense applications. "We remain driven by the same spirit that launched our first submersible," said Marketing Director Roy Heijdra. The manufacturer continues developing new models while supporting its existing fleet of operational submarines.Founded in 2005, U-Boat Worx leads the global market in designing and manufacturing submersibles for private, research, and cruise industries. With over 60 operational units worldwide, the company prioritizes safety, performance, and comfort, continuously innovating underwater exploration technologies.Credits: U-Boat Worx
June 23, 2025
The newly delivered Benetti Oasis 34 motor yacht Y has entered the brokerage market with Mark Seaton of Yacht. The 34.4-meter vessel was delivered in May 2025 and remains under full shipyard warranty. Currently berthed at Benetti’s shipyard in Viareggio, Italy, the yacht is available for immediate delivery.Designed by RWD, the Oasis 34M series features a distinctive Oasis Deck with fold-down bulwarks, a glass-sided infinity pool, and a spacious beach club area. The yacht’s streamlined profile, extended overhangs, and open-plan layout reflect Benetti’s approach to indoor-outdoor living.The interior design, created by Bonetti/Kozerski Architecture of New York, combines warm greys and natural tones with contemporary elements. The accommodation includes five staterooms for up to 10 guests, with a full-beam owner’s suite on the main deck and four guest cabins below. The crew quarters can accommodate seven staff members.The 269 GT yacht is powered by twin 1,380hp MTU diesel engines, providing a top speed of 16 knots and a cruising speed of 14.5 knots. The vessel sails under the Marshall Islands flag. The asking price for the yacht is €17,500,000, excluding VAT. It represents the only Benetti Oasis 34M from 2025 currently available on the market worldwide. The vessel was built under the supervision of experienced owners and a leading maritime consultancy, ensuring high-quality construction and finishing.Credits: Yacht Harbour Archive
June 20, 2025