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.
Benetti has launched the 50-meter custom superyacht FB615, a fully personalized vessel from its B.Now 50M series featuring the Oasis Deck® design. The yacht was developed in collaboration with British design studio RWD, marking their first complete exterior and interior design partnership for the B.Now line.FB615 was designed around the owner’s specific lifestyle and preferences, with Burgess acting as the client’s representative. "Together with RWD, whose deep understanding of the B.Now philosophy made them the ideal partner for this project, including the interior design, we crafted a yacht that not only meets but exceeds the Owner’s expectations, the result of close teamwork carried out in collaboration with Burgess as the client’s representative," said Daniela Petrozzi, Benetti Sales Director.Barry Gray, Technical Representative at Burgess, added: "The enormous success of the B.Now series reflects how this RWD design exceptionally delivers on the desires and needs of today’s modern yacht buyer. It has been a pleasure to work with our discerning client and the inimitable Italian powerhouse Benetti."The interior design process began two years ago, with RWD creating adaptable spaces that balance functionality and personal expression. The main deck integrates seamlessly with the Oasis Deck®, pool, and fold-down terraces, enhancing the connection between indoor and outdoor areas.Amy Whitaker, lead designer at RWD, stated: "Working on the interiors of FB615 has been an exciting journey. The synergy we created with the clients and Benetti enabled us to develop a unique interior that is a canvas designed to evolve over time with artwork and decorative objet."FB615 is scheduled for delivery this summer. The project reinforces Benetti’s position in the custom superyacht market, emphasizing tailored design for owners seeking fully personalized vessels.Founded in 1873, Benetti is the oldest Italian shipyard specializing in luxury yachts. Benetti designs, builds and sells composite vessels from 29 to 44m and steel and aluminum boats from 37 to over 100m. The fleet consists of five categories: Class, Oasis, B.Yond, B.Now and Custom to meet all the needs of the market. Benetti belongs to the Azimut|Benetti Group, the largest privately owned luxury yachting group in the world.Credits: Benetti
May 28, 2025
Tankoa Yachts has announced the technical launch of the second hull in its T55 Sportiva series, Loewe, just over a month after the debut of the first unit. The yacht was sold to an experienced European owner and reflects the shipyard’s ongoing production progress.Designed by Luca Dini Design & Architecture, Loewe was developed in collaboration with the owner’s team, resulting in a fully customized vessel. The yacht features a six-cabin layout, one more than the first T55 Sportiva, increasing guest capacity while maintaining comfort. An internal elevator provides access across all decks.Key amenities include an expanded beach club with a "sealine window," now equipped with a sauna and hammam. Additional features consist of a swim platform with a pool, a private hot tub in the owner’s suite, and a full-beam hot tub on the sundeck.Loewe will operate in the Mediterranean this season, offering charter guests a combination of luxury and functionality. The launch reinforces Tankoa Yachts' position in the competitive superyacht market.Tankoa was founded in 2007 and began production in 2008. A true “boutique shipyard”, focused on building semi-custom and custom constructions 45-meter and up.Credits: Tankoa
May 28, 2025
Technohull will exhibit two of its latest models – the Alpha 40 and GTX – at the 2025 Venice Boat Show, taking place from May 29 to June 2. The event marks another step in the brand’s expansion across Southern Europe, with the presentation supported by its Italian representative, Campello Marine.Alpha 40The Alpha 40, finished in white and equipped with twin Mercury 400 hp outboards, will be displayed alongside the GTX, which features a grey exterior and twin Mercury 400R engines. Both models are designed for speed and premium day boating experiences.“We’re proud to be part of the Venice Boat Show with two of our most versatile and well-received models,” said Gerasimos Petratos, CEO of Technohull. “This is an important step in our continued growth in the Mediterranean, and we’re excited to connect with more owners and enthusiasts who value performance, comfort, and cutting-edge design.”Alpha 40The Alpha 40, launched in October 2024, measures 12.1 meters and combines a carbon-fiber hardtop with an ergonomic deck layout. Its Dynastream Deep-V hull ensures stable cruising at speeds exceeding 45 mph, with a top speed of over 75 mph. Fuel efficiency ranges between 2.6 and 3.3 liters per mile. The cabin includes a full-beam double berth, a separate head, and a shower with 1.85-meter clearance.The GTX, meanwhile, emphasizes power and agility, catering to buyers seeking uncompromising performance. Both models reflect Technohull’s focus on advanced hull technology and Mediterranean-inspired design.GTXThe Venice Boat Show will provide an opportunity for visitors to inspect the boats firsthand, with Technohull aiming to strengthen its presence in the luxury day-boating market.Greece company Technohull launched its first hull in 2004. The most popular Technohull models of today include: Omega 45, 38 Grand Sport, 909, Explorer 40 and SeaDNA999. Credits: Technohull
May 28, 2025
Van der Valk has launched its 35-meter aluminum superyacht Lalabe, previously known as Project Samba, ahead of its scheduled delivery this summer. The vessel entered the water in late May 2025, coinciding with the conclusion of the Cannes Film Festival, and will undergo final outfitting and sea trials before its official debut at the Cannes Yachting Festival in September.Lalabe represents a fully custom design based on the naval architecture of the award-winning Lady Lene, adapted with a fast-displacement hull capable of 17 knots. The exterior and interior were developed by designer Guido de Groot in collaboration with the owners, who were closely involved throughout the build process. The yacht emphasizes indoor-outdoor living, featuring sliding doors that open the bridge deck saloon on three sides and an aft cockpit designed as a beach club with a sauna, steam room, and fold-down swim platform."The yacht exemplifies Van der Valk's approach – combining Dutch craftsmanship with fully bespoke design," said Yoeri Bijker, Van der Valk's sales director. "This isn't a semi-custom project; every detail was tailored to the owners' requirements."The Cannes Yachting Festival, held in September, will mark Lalabe's first public appearance. The event, which includes in-water displays and exhibitions across Cannes' ports, serves as a key platform for yacht builders to showcase new models. Van der Valk's participation underscores the company's focus on the custom superyacht market, with Lalabe positioned as a highlight of the show.The yacht's layout prioritizes multi-generational family use, incorporating residential-style amenities such as an expansive laundry facility and flexible deck spaces. Its design follows the success of previous Van der Valk models, reinforcing the brand's reputation for high-performance, custom-built aluminum yachts.The Cannes Yachting Festival attracts a global audience of yacht owners, brokers, and industry professionals, making it an ideal venue for Lalabe's premiere. The event runs from September 10-15, 2025, in Cannes, France.Van der Valk is a family-run company building comfortable, innovative and efficient (semi) custom motor yachts from 18m to 45m. From its humble roots in the 1960s, Van der Valk today has a global fleet of over 1000 motor yachts. Credits: Van der Valk
May 27, 2025
Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal visited Cockwells Modern & Classic Boatbuilding's Ponsharden shipyard on 6 May 2025 to inaugurate the company's new Training Academy and launch the Hardy 45 European model. The Cornish boatbuilder, acquired last year by Pendennis Group, hosted the royal visit at its facility between Falmouth and Penryn.Upon arrival, The Princess Royal was received by local dignitaries including the Lord Lieutenant of Cornwall Colonel Sir Edward Bolitho, Penryn Mayor Councillor Mary May, and Pendennis Group Commercial Director Stephen Hills. Cockwells founder Dave Cockwell introduced senior management and Cornwall Marine Network CEO Paul Wickes MBE before guiding the royal party through the production facilities.The tour included demonstrations of the fiberglass molding process led by Production Manager Ryan Tunnicliffe, followed by an inspection of the main workshop with Production Director Jason Foat. The Princess Royal engaged with two groups of apprentices from the newly opened Training Academy, discussing their backgrounds and career aspirations."The Cockwells Training Academy has provided an incredibly positive route forward into my career," said apprentice Louis Foulkes. "I believe the skillsets and opportunities provided will allow me to spend the rest of my working life in a fantastic industry."The royal visit highlighted Cockwells' four-year apprenticeship program developed with Cornwall Marine Network, designed to preserve traditional boatbuilding skills while incorporating modern techniques. The Princess Royal unveiled a commemorative plaque for the Academy before performing the ceremonial launch of the Hardy 45 European by breaking a bottle of Cornish Camel Valley champagne on its bow."This marks two important developments - opening our Training Academy and launching the Hardy 45 European," said Dave Cockwell. "We discussed sustaining Cornwall's boatbuilding heritage while meeting global demand for bespoke vessels."The Hardy 45 European joins Cockwells' portfolio that includes Duchy Motor Launches and superyacht tenders. The Pendennis Group's majority acquisition has enabled production expansion at the Cornish facility, which employs traditional craftsmanship alongside contemporary marine technologies.The event underscored the marine sector's economic significance to Cornwall, with Cockwells' apprenticeship program addressing industry skills requirements. The company currently builds vessels up to 35 feet at the Ponsharden site, with the Training Academy expected to graduate 12-15 apprentices annually through its structured program combining workshop instruction and on-the-job training.Pendennis Shipyard is one of the world's leading custom superyacht builders and refit shipyards and has become one of Cornwall's most important employers with over 430 highly skilled tradespeople based at the 14-acre prime waterfront location in Falmouth, UK. In the latter part of 2018 Pendennis secured a majority share hold in Vilanova Grand Marina, a 48 berth facility with adjacent land available for further development. The investment in Vilanova is yet another milestone in Pendennis’ international growth and offering to its global client base. Credit: Pendennis
May 27, 2025