Along with the recent press hype over the forthcoming episode of the James Bond film series, Italian Videoworks Group has revealed the technologies they deployed on-board a 69-metre James-Bond-inspired Benetti superyacht Spectre, delivered in 2018.
Even bearing her name after a James Bond film, the yacht represents a steel-hulled vessel with aluminium superstructure, pool and "touch ang go" helipad. Spectre features exterior design by Benetti, Mulder Design and Giorgio Cassetta, able to demonstrate a maximum speed of 21.2 knots.
The indoor design concept has been created by the Benetti Interior Style Department, while Videoworks has built a highly technological installation that comprises audio-video, network, telephony, home automation and CCTV systems. Below is more information on the yacht’s amazing techno features.
AUDIO-VIDEO
The AV system is fully centralised, installed in a small dedicated rack room, with 7 full-height racks. Their super-customised frame has been specifically designed to fit into the available space (the cabins have only TVs, speakers and iPads).
A full-height rack is in the wheelhouse, whereas a small deck rack is dedicated to networking and communications.
Audio-video contents are transmitted via fibre-optics. In addition to the Kaleidescape film and music server, there is a server dedicated to the crew, who can access it via iPads. With the Kaleidescape provider, Videoworks has managed the pre-loading of approximately 1800 DVDs and Blu-ray discs (music and films), complete with covers, metadata, info on actors, trailers and special content. In this way Owners are guaranteed a customised service that is certainly convenient to use.
Every room in Spectre has its own HDMI socket near the TV, to display files from local sources. The skylounge hall in the upper deck has two TVs (with 75” and 49” screens) with independent audio systems, although they share the same group of sources. Everything is managed through a matrix that allows to configure the area with multiple combinations, depending on the purpose (party, show, institutional video + satellite channel, etc.). The Sea Tel 100 TV HD satellite dishes (SAT TV) can receive European and American HD channels. This kind of satellite dish works worldwide, which means there is no need for LNB replacement when changing hemisphere.
HOME AUTOMATION
Internal and external LED lights are managed via Crestron keyboards and DALI protocol, with customised silk-screen printed buttons. Videoworks’s sister company, Itworks, has created a customised software for light management, which allows to restore previously saved settings and to save the new configuration as setting, uploading it when requested. A 'secret' procedure, known only to the crew, allows to return to the original settings and to easily restore the system.
Owners can use an iPad to call staff from any part of the yacht; the call is received and displayed in the crew mess and in the pantry. The super-silent Lutron blinds can be controlled via Crestron touch-screen and iPad with customised silk-screen printed keyboards. NMEA navigation information (wind speed, direction, cruising speed, sea depth, etc.) can be viewed using the specific Myinfos App developed by Itworks.
NETWORK AND CYBERSECURITY
Onboard network security (firewall, bandwidth manager, connection manager, etc.) is guaranteed by the Kerio NG500 system, which allows to surf securely while on board and to manage bandwidth as needed, e.g. if the Owner needs to work aboard, the system allows to limit bandwidth access and use. To guarantee the greatest security possible, the system uses Cisco products from the Catalyst and Aironet professional lines.
TELEPHONY
The telephone switchboard is managed through a Cisco Router and the Cisco Unified Communication Manager software. The system includes 17 cordless telephones + 17 landlines, buzzer, fax line and light signals for calls from the Engine Room.
CCTV SYSTEM
The closed circuit television system manages 10 cameras, two PTZ cameras (one interior and one exterior), a number of external fixed cameras and a 360° fisheye camera, two observation and management stations (one in the wheelhouse and one in the crew mess), through a dedicated Panasonic software and PC touch panel. The Network Disk Recorder allows the captain to make recordings for security, control and surveillance purposes. The CCTV system is integrated in the entertainment section through the Itworks 'Myinfos' app.
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The yacht, which is a winner of the 2019 World Superyacht Awards category ‘Displacement yachts between 500 and 1,999 tonnes,’ was built for US entrepreneur John Staluppi (net worth $500 million, Celebrity Net Worth) with a passion for speed and technology in mind and as a part of his James-Bond inspired-fleet. Nevertheless, Staluppi sold Spectre in February 2019 asking €65,000,000.
Meanwhile, the James Bond theme has been driving inspiration for numerous yacht enthusiasts through years. Some yachts have even become ultimate attributives of the story, with Spirit 54 Soufriere appearing in Casino Royale, or Sunseeker Sovereign 17 filmed in Quantum of Solace.
Recommended articles : Serial yacht owners: Spectre; Inside John Staluppi's Bond themed superyacht fleet.
D-Marin is set to enhance its footprint in Dubai with the upcoming launch of Port De La Mer, a Mediterranean-style marina located at the northern tip of La Mer peninsula. This venture, operated in partnership with Dubai Holding, marks D-Marin's fifth marina in the emirate.“Port De La Mer establishes new benchmarks for marina expectations. The entire development, including residential communities and recreational areas, draws inspiration from the Mediterranean,” stated Selcuk Balci, Managing Director of D-Marin Dubai. “We are excited to collaborate with Dubai Holding to deliver exceptional marina experiences and innovations.”The marina's first phase is scheduled to debut in October 2024, featuring 32 berths for yachts up to 40 metres. Future phases are planned to expand this capacity to 160 berths for vessels reaching up to 80 metres.Additionally, Port De La Mer will demonstrate D-Marin's commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards, aiming to reduce its carbon footprint by 42% by 2030, in alignment with the UN Global Compact and the Science Based Targets initiative."Port De La Mer represents a strategic milestone in our long-term vision to position Dubai as a premier global leisure and tourism destination. Port De La Mer will be added to the current marinas in our key waterfront destinations, including Jaddaf Waterfront, Marasi Bay and Marina Al Seef Dubai, and Marsa Al Arab, setting a new benchmark for luxury marinas worldwide. Our ongoing collaboration with D-Marin, known for their exemplary management and commitment to sustainability, underscores our shared dedication to excellence and innovation. Together, we are setting new standards by delivering world-class facilities, ensuring Dubai remains at the forefront of the global yachting community,” remarked Khalid Al Malik, Managing Director of Dubai Holding.Credits: D-Marin
October 4, 2024
MB92 La Ciotat, a worldwide leader in superyacht refit services, has announced its acquisition of operational control at the Golfe-Juan shipyard located in the South of France. Covering an area of 9,000 square meters, this new facility is equipped to accommodate yachts up to 45 meters, representing a pivotal strategic advancement for MB92 Group as it enhances its footprint in critical yachting regions globally.In this venture, MB92 La Ciotat is collaborating closely with D-Marin, the concession holder, who has granted the group operational oversight of the site, along with retaining the existing shipyard team to facilitate a seamless transition. Key preparations for the shipyard's new role within MB92’s expanding operations include upgrades to health, safety, and environmental (HSE) protocols, along with substantial investments aimed at modernizing the facility. These efforts will focus on aligning operations with MB92’s environmental, social, and governance (ESG) commitments, particularly in areas like water treatment, waste management, and energy efficiency. The goal is to transform the site into an innovative and eco-friendly operation that caters to both the yachting industry’s demands and the expectations of the local community.Rob Papworth, operations director at MB92 La Ciotat, remarked, “At Golfe-Juan, our ambition is to provide the same exceptional quality and meticulous attention to detail that MB92 is renowned for across the Group, leveraging our extensive experience with yachts in the under 50-meter category. We are confident that Golfe-Juan will rapidly become an appealing and vibrant destination for both returning clients and newcomers. By offering a personalized, flexible boutique experience akin to our 300t Origins facility in La Ciotat, and partnering with local subcontractors, we will ensure that each refit adds significant value. This initiative will position Golfe-Juan as a prime location for superyacht refit services in the Mediterranean while reinforcing our dedication to sustainable practices.”For 25 years the MB92 Group comprises the refit and repair shipyards MB92 Barcelona and MB92 La Ciota. Both sites offer unrivalled facilities and employ a workforce of over 300 in-house professionals. In 2019, MB92 was acquired by Squircle Capital, a European alternative investment firm focused on private equity and real estate value-add investments. Credits: MB92 Group
October 4, 2024
Feadship, the renowned Dutch yacht builder, recently showcased its latest visionary creation, Concept C, during the Monaco Yacht Show. This 75-meter motoryacht not only pays homage to Feadship's rich 75-year heritage but also embodies cutting-edge technology and a bold design philosophy.The unveiling of Concept C marks an important milestone for Feadship as it celebrates its Diamond Anniversary. The name "C" was chosen not just as a reference to the ocean with a clever nod to the symbol for carbon, the element fundamental to diamonds, but it also reflects the company’s commitment to sustainability and innovation. The yacht’s striking design features a flared bow, reminiscent of the classic aesthetics championed by the late Frits de Voogt, an iconic figure in Feadship’s history.Concept C stands apart as a remarkable synthesis of form and function. With its dazzling faceted exterior and extensive glass panels, the design draws natural light into the yacht’s interior, transforming the central living area into a vibrant and airy space. Senior designer Ruud Bakker led the team that crafted this concept, which drew inspiration from the intricate work done at the Gassan Diamonds workshop in Amsterdam. The facet patterns and innovative architectural principles blurred the lines between indoor and outdoor living, offering owners an enhanced connection with the sea.One of the standout features of Concept C is its groundbreaking approach to deck connectivity. By employing staggered levels, the yacht eliminates long corridors, creating an inviting open atrium with floating stairs and a seamless lift. Rather than using conventional elevators, the innovative design integrates a moving seating area that transports guests between decks without breaking conversation, offering a truly immersive experience.Not just a technological marvel, the yacht prioritizes comfort with a spacious primary suite that includes an open staircase and a private outdoor deck complete with a spa pool. The lower deck sea lounge stands out as a multifunctional space with fixtures designed for leisure or entertainment, featuring retractable side terraces that enhance the al fresco experience.From an environmental standpoint, Concept C is a pioneer in sustainable yachting technology. Its hull shape and fully electric propulsion system are designed to increase efficiency while significantly reducing emissions. Feadship has adopted a unique DC electrical grid powered by renewable methanol, enabling a quieter and more efficient cruising experience. This innovative system is expected to achieve up to 30 percent greater energy efficiency compared to traditional vessels.Furthermore, the integration of wave-actuated fins aims to harness ocean energy, potentially supplying a third of the yacht’s hotel load while enhancing on-board comfort by minimizing pitching motions.Concept C masterfully combines heritage, modernity, and sustainability, setting a new benchmark for luxury yachting. As it embarks on this new chapter, Feadship continues to push boundaries, reaffirming its place at the forefront of yacht innovation and design.Based in the Netherlands and with roots dating back to 1849, Feadship was formed as a group in 1949 as a marketing partnership between six Dutch shipyards, de Vries Lentch, Van de Stadt, Witsen & Vis, Akerboom, De Vries Scheepsbouw and Van Lent Shipyard, and De Voogt Naval Architects. Feadship is well-known as one of the Netherlands’ most elite yacht builders and delivers superyachts from 50–100+ meters in length.Credits: Feadship
October 4, 2024
The renowned Italian design firm Hydro Tec has introduced an impressive new yacht concept measuring 80 metres, aptly named Valiant. This name pays tribute to the iconic British battleship that played a significant role during both World War I and World War II.Valiant features an exterior that combines robust militaristic elements with sleek, automotive-inspired lines. One of the standout features of this design is the all-seasons beach club, seamlessly connected to the guest areas and outfitted with an infinity pool and a spa complete with a sauna.Accommodations aboard the Valiant include an owner’s suite positioned at the front of the yacht. This lavish cabin offers a cozy fireplace, comfortable lounge seating, and access to a private outdoor space. This outdoor area, featuring sliding glass doors on both sides, is designed for relaxation, with sun loungers, cozy sofas, and a waterfall hot tub at the bow.The interior design merges elements from Japanese and Scandinavian aesthetics, showcasing a harmonious combination of light woods, elegant marble accents, and intricately designed staircases adorned with crystal and gold features.Another notable aspect of Valiant is the thoughtfully designed dining area, which is strategically located across from the main saloon. This space includes an open kitchen, sweeping curved windows, and a balcony area that invites guests to enjoy meals in the open air.Credits: Hydro Tec
October 3, 2024
The Italian Sea Group (TISG) has once again affirmed its prominent position in the global luxury yachting industry during the 33rd edition of the Monaco Yacht Show, the foremost event dedicated to superyachts and megayachts. This year’s show attracted an impressive turnout of over 30,000 visitors, comprising yacht owners, prospective buyers, and brokers from around the globe.From September 25 to 28, at the stunning Port Hercule, TISG showcased an exclusive selection of yachts that embody Italian excellence in design, technology, and craftsmanship. In an elegantly designed lounge on the Quai Rainier Ier, TISG engaged with an international audience of clients, brokers, media, and financial professionals, fostering a high-level networking atmosphere alongside its motoryachts:Admiral Platinum 78m: A stunning feat of contemporary design resulting from a collaboration between SINOT and Lobanov Design Studio, this yacht epitomizes refined living and social spaces.Admiral Jas 66m: Crafted by TISG's Centro Stile and Mark Berryman Design, this superyacht features striking lines complemented by a sophisticated palette of bright white and black details, enhancing its elegance.JasAdmiral Silver Star-I: This 55-meter motor yacht, featuring interiors designed by Giorgio Armani, balances essential luxury with modern aesthetics, showcasing refined spaces and intricate details.Silver Star-ITecnomar for Lamborghini 63’: Two stunning models of the iconic sports yacht, inspired by the Lamborghini Siàn FKP 37, are showcased in striking Rosso Bia and Blu Nentus colors.Tecnomar for Lamborghini 63’“The Monaco Yacht Show has once again proven to be a tremendous success for TISG,” said Giovanni Costantino, Founder & CEO of The Italian Sea Group. “We are thrilled with the high level of interest from visitors and the positive feedback from owners and key industry stakeholders who praised the quality, attention to detail, and stylistic innovation of our vessels.”The Italian Sea Group is a global operator in the luxury yachting industry, listed on Euronext Milan (“EXM”) and active in the construction and refit of motor yachts and sailing yachts up to 140 meters. The Company, led by Italian entrepreneur Giovanni Costantino, operates on the market with the brands Admiral, renown for elegant and prestigious yachts, Tecnomar, Perini Navi, and Picchiotti; the Company has a business unit, NCA Refit, that manages the maintenance and refit services for yachts and mega yachts with a length over 60 meters. Credit: The Italian Sea Group
October 3, 2024