The relationship between superyacht design and owners' lifestyles is often intertwined, each inextricably influencing each other in equal measure. This was one of the key topics of discussion at Benetti’s 2024 Yachtmaster event. According to the conference, modern-day owners purchase a yacht to express their lifestyle, involving design that has purpose in the layout of spaces. Having unveiled numerous innovative designs over the past year, the Italian shipyard’s head of product, Sebastiano Vida, tells BOAT’s Hannah Rankine how these concepts cater to the ever-evolving superyacht owner's lifestyle.
What is Benetti’s overarching design philosophy?
Our design philosophy is centred on the harmonious union of tradition and innovation, shaping yachts that epitomise timeless grace while embracing state-of-the-art technology. Our designs pay homage to Benetti's profound maritime legacy and exquisite craftsmanship, which have defined the brand for over a century. While we deeply respect our heritage, we are unwavering in our commitment to push the boundaries of yacht design through pioneering technologies and fruitful collaborations with designers across various industries. Recognising that a yacht is a personal declaration of luxury and sophistication, we provide comprehensive customisation options, collaborating closely with our clients to personalise every facet of the yacht to their distinct needs and preferences. This bespoke approach ensures that each Benetti yacht is truly one-of-a-kind.
How does lifestyle impact the design of yachts?
At the heart of our yacht design is a deep understanding of our clients' lifestyles. We begin with in-depth consultations, where clients share their desires and vision. These crucial conversations guide the first sketches and overall direction of the new project. By truly understanding our clients' preferences, we create designs that perfectly align with their lifestyles, ensuring each yacht is a unique reflection of its owner.
What are some of the key design trends you have noticed in recent years and how does Benetti incorporate this?
One of the main trends is the desire to experience an unparalleled connection with the sea on board a yacht and we made this possible with our innovative Oasis Deck® concept. Designed for owners who seek a closer interaction with the water, this pioneering solution features side wings that open at water level, offering an unobstructed 270-degree view. The success of the Oasis Deck® lies in its foresight and its deep understanding of the evolving desires of yacht owners.
Another concept we recently launched is the Veranda Deck®, which transforms the main deck saloon into a multifunctional and versatile space. This design seamlessly integrates indoor and outdoor environments by removing all walls and barriers on three sides.
Last but not least, the B.Yond line - not a family of traditional mega yachts, nor of extreme explorers, but a new category in steel designed for intrepid owners with a thirst for discovery, who wish to travel around the world without giving up the pleasure of yachting. Volume, reliability, and seaworthiness are the traditional values associated with our B.Yond line.
How does Benetti accommodate the unique lifestyle preferences of owners in the design process?
Each of our yachts is meticulously crafted to cater to distinct lifestyle preferences. The Motopanfilo 37M offers a perfect blend of heritage and glamour, appealing to those seeking a classic yet elegant experience. The Oasis Deck provides a more casual and relaxed atmosphere, with ample space for leisure and social activities by the sea. Meanwhile, the Voyager is tailored for adventurous owners in need of a dependable and bold vessel for long-range navigation, boasting a strong and distinctive character.
How does Benetti encourage the captain and crew to elevate the owner’s lifestyle?
We at Benetti strongly believe that the captain and crew play a crucial role in enhancing the onboard lifestyle for the owner and guests. To achieve this, our yacht designs prioritise facilitating and supporting the captain and crew in every aspect of their actions and routine. We emphasise functional and ergonomic aspects, as well as the implementation of more efficient onboard systems to reduce energy consumption and emissions, facilitate smooth operations, enhance service quality, and ultimately elevate the overall experience for the owner and guests.
In addition, we actively encourage captains and crew to engage in the design and outfitting stages of the yacht, recognising the invaluable input that their practical insights and operational experience bring to creating functional and efficient living and working spaces. This collaboration ensures that the yacht’s layout and features are constantly aligned with the latest user feedback, taking advantage of the latest experiences.
Furthermore, to continually support the captain and crew, we provide ongoing access to our global network of service centres and technical assistance, ensuring that the yacht is maintained in optimal condition with swift resolution of any issues.
How does Benetti integrate technology on board to enhance the lifestyle experience?
Enhancing the customer experience on board Benetti yachts is our priority. By integrating entertainment technology, connectivity and home automation, and leveraging AI, we aim to simplify connectivity and interaction for various purposes, from entertainment to service and remote support. We work with strategic partners to ensure an exceptional experience.
The digitalisation of tools designed for captains and chief engineers is essential for enhancing crew efficiency. To achieve this, we have introduced several new technologies on board, including innovative augmented reality software for iPads. This software offers users a range of tools for boat management and maintenance. Additionally, a system will be installed on Benetti yachts to gather and log data from onboard systems, providing the crew with real-time monitoring and early detection of equipment issues. This allows for timely maintenance to ensure onboard safety. Furthermore, the 3D Remote Assistant system offers the crew real-time troubleshooting and maintenance support.
These systems will significantly improve the crew’s efficiency in managing and maintaining the yacht in optimal conditions, with the added benefit of remote assistance from the Benetti team. This will result in reduced time spent in port for maintenance and repairs, allowing for more time for the owners to use the yacht while maintaining high lifestyle standards on board.
How does Benetti incorporate sustainable practices and eco-friendly materials on board?
At Benetti, sustainability is integral to our yacht design and construction. We incorporate advanced power management systems and energy-saving technologies to optimise power consumption. Our yachts feature innovative propulsion systems, such as hybrid propulsions on some models for electric navigation in marine protected zones and anchor stays at zero emissions, and hull designs that minimise fuel consumption. We are leading the use of Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO), a biofuel that reduces CO2 emissions by up to 80 per cent.
We eliminate plastic waste by equipping yachts with water purification systems that produce drinking water on board. Additionally, we use eco-friendly materials like FSC-certified wood from forests managed responsibly for durable and recyclable wood with a low carbon footprint, and chemical-free paints and coatings for exteriors and interiors to avoid polluting the ocean. Through these practices, we ensure that our yachts offer luxury and performance while being environmentally responsible.
For more information about Benetti’s superyacht lifestyle concepts, contact the shipyard today.
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