The connection between superyacht design and the lifestyles of their owners is often deeply entangled, with each significantly influencing the other. This was one of the prominent themes discussed at Benetti’s 2024 Yachtmaster event. During the conference, it was noted that contemporary owners buy yachts to reflect their lifestyle, including designs that prioritize the layout’s functionality. Following the unveiling of several cutting-edge designs in the past year, Sebastiano Vida, head of product at the Italian shipyard, shared insights with BOAT’s Hannah Rankine on how these designs accommodate the changing demands of superyacht owners.
Sebastiano Vida, head of product at Benetti
Credit: Benetti
What is Benetti’s primary design philosophy?
Our design philosophy revolves around a seamless blend of tradition and modern innovation, creating yachts that exemplify classic elegance while adopting cutting-edge technology. Our designs celebrate Benetti’s rich maritime heritage and superb craftsmanship, which have defined our brand for over a century. While we have great respect for our history, we are committed to advancing yacht design’s frontiers through groundbreaking technologies and successful partnerships with designers from various fields. Understanding that a yacht represents a personal statement of luxury and refinement, we offer extensive customization choices, working closely with clients to tailor each aspect of the yacht to their specific desires and tastes. This personalized approach guarantees that every Benetti yacht is unique.
How does lifestyle influence yacht design?
The essence of our yacht design lies in a thorough comprehension of our clients’ lifestyles. We initiate the process with extensive consultations during which clients express their aspirations and vision. These vital discussions shape the initial designs and overall trajectory of the project. By deeply grasping our clients’ inclinations, we craft designs that resonate perfectly with their lifestyles, ensuring that each yacht is a true reflection of its owner.
Veranda Deck®
Credit: Benetti
What notable design trends have emerged in recent years, and how does Benetti integrate them?
A prominent trend is the desire for an unprecedented connection with the sea while aboard a yacht, which we achieved with our revolutionary Oasis Deck® concept. Tailored for owners who want a closer bond with the water, this innovative solution includes side wings that open at water level, providing a clear 270-degree view. The success of the Oasis Deck® stems from its foresight and a profound understanding of yacht owners’ changing aspirations.
Another concept we’ve introduced is the Veranda Deck®, which converts the main deck saloon into a multifunctional and adaptable space. This design elegantly merges indoor and outdoor environments by eliminating walls and barriers on three sides.
Lastly, the B.Yond line represents not a family of traditional mega yachts or extreme explorers, but a new category of steel yachts for adventurous owners eager to explore the globe without sacrificing the joys of yachting. Volume, reliability, and seaworthiness are the foundational values associated with our B.Yond line.
How does Benetti tailor yacht design to accommodate the unique lifestyle preferences of owners?
Each of our yachts is carefully crafted to reflect various lifestyle preferences. The Motopanfilo 37M presents an ideal combination of tradition and glamour, appealing to those desiring a classic yet sophisticated experience. The Oasis Deck creates a more leisurely and relaxed environment, featuring substantial areas for recreation and socializing by the water. Meanwhile, the Voyager is designed for adventurous owners who require a robust and dependable vessel for extensive voyages, boasting a strong and distinctive character.
Motopanfilo 37M
Credit: Benetti
How does Benetti empower the captain and crew to enhance the owner’s lifestyle?
At Benetti, we firmly believe that the captain and crew are essential in elevating the onboard lifestyle for both the owner and guests. Our yacht designs prioritize facilitating and supporting the captain and crew’s day-to-day functions. We focus on ergonomic and functional aspects, alongside implementing more efficient onboard systems to minimize energy consumption and emissions while improving service quality and overall guest experiences.
We also actively involve the captain and crew in the yacht’s design and outfitting phases, acknowledging the critical insights their operational expertise contributes to creating functional and efficient living and working spaces. This collaboration ensures that the yacht’s configuration and features remain attuned to current user feedback and experiences.
Moreover, to provide ongoing support to the captain and crew, we maintain constant access to our global network of service centers and technical support, guaranteeing that the yacht remains in peak condition and that any issues are quickly resolved.
How does Benetti incorporate technology aboard to enrich the lifestyle experience?
Enhancing the onboard experience for our customers is our top priority. By integrating entertainment systems, connectivity solutions, home automation, and incorporating AI, we aim to streamline connectivity and interaction across diverse needs, from entertainment to servicement and remote assistance. We collaborate with strategic partners to ensure an unparalleled experience.
The digital tools designed for captains and chief engineers are crucial for boosting crew efficiency. To this end, we have deployed multiple new technologies onboard, including groundbreaking augmented reality software for iPads, providing users with tools for yacht management and maintenance. Additionally, we plan to install systems on Benetti yachts that will capture and log data from onboard systems, enabling real-time monitoring and early identification of equipment issues. This proactive maintenance approach ensures safety onboard. Furthermore, our 3D Remote Assistant system provides real-time troubleshooting and maintenance help to the crew.
These systems greatly enhance the crew’s ability to manage and maintain the yacht in optimal conditions, with the additional advantage of remote assistance from the Benetti team. This leads to reduced time spent in port for repairs and maintenance, allowing owners to enjoy their yachts while upholding exceptional lifestyle standards.
Oasis Deck
Credit: Benetti
How does Benetti implement sustainable practices and eco-friendly materials onboard?
Sustainability is a core component of our yacht design and construction process at Benetti. We employ advanced power management systems and energy-efficient technologies to optimize energy use. Our yachts are outfitted with innovative propulsion systems, such as hybrid options on select models for electric navigation in marine protected areas, ensuring zero-emission stays at anchor, along with hull designs that reduce fuel consumption. We lead in utilizing Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO), a biofuel that cuts CO2 emissions by up to 80%.
To eliminate plastic waste, we fit yachts with water purification systems that produce drinking water onboard. Additionally, we use sustainable materials like FSC-certified wood sourced from responsibly managed forests, ensuring durability and recyclability with a minimal carbon footprint, as well as chemical-free paints and coatings for both exteriors and interiors to prevent ocean pollution. Through these initiatives, we guarantee that our yachts deliver both luxury and performance while remaining eco-conscious.
For more details about Benetti’s superyacht lifestyle concepts, reach out to the shipyard today.
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