About Yacht Intelligence

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Yacht Intelligence

Today’s fleet contains some of the most technologically advanced superyachts ever built. When cool technology is utilised well, it makes time on the water and the experience on board exciting, instantly stress-free and more enjoyable. As the tech industry continues to boom, entertainment, management and security systems are becoming more advanced and are readily available for all superyacht owners. &nbsp;There is a vast range of options when it comes to superyacht technology, and a key part of creating a superyacht is choosing the essential - and coolest - toys and systems to include on board. To make the choice easier, SuperYacht Times has teamed up with audio and technology company <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4384" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yacht Intelligence (Company)">Yacht Intelligence</a> to find out what the smart options are when it comes to deciding what tech toys to feature on a new-build yacht today. &nbsp; &nbsp;<img src="/uploads/store/photo/97763/image/large-e05f63eaf019ede8a18da4158e90060a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/97763">VSAT/Broadband A reliable internet source and connection is a highly demanded service and is undoubtedly essential to life on board. 4G may not be the best option when travelling through remote areas, therefore <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4384" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yacht Intelligence (Company)">Yacht Intelligence</a> recommends using a VSAT provider which is specifically designed for remote locations. VSAT is a reliable and cost-effective alternative that allows multiple users to stay connected and have the assurance of being able to communicate with whoever, wherever, whenever whilst on board. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; <img src="/uploads/store/photo/97756/image/large-2426d5f2da2edaba8a776708a86b11e6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/97756"> Kerio Control Bandwidth Management A powerful tool that manages and protects data and its path from the outside world. As a superyacht is a home away from home, a robust firewall system must be used. Plus, the Kerio Control Bandwidth Management system also features a user-friendly GUI. <img src="/uploads/store/photo/97931/image/large-b51fbaf98256edf26187706646461fbb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/97931">Apple iPad The go-to device when running a control system like Crestron. The Crestron app turns the iPad into a cost-effective and user-friendly remote control and, with just a few swipes and a tap, the iPad will help to programme almost every electronic device on board, including lighting, blinds and curtains, heating, security systems, audio and video settings, on-demand libraries and management. &nbsp; <img src="/uploads/store/photo/97661/image/large-dceb7462f2fb615fc7fc434db6a206e5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/97661">Apple TV Originally designed for the home market, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4384" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yacht Intelligence (Company)">Yacht Intelligence</a> team have found that the quirky Apple TV and its Airplay feature is the only reliable solution for streaming audio and video aboard a superyacht. <img src="/uploads/store/photo/97663/image/large-65d63d6741e196add9f3077c43565b5d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/97663">Tabletop wireless charging &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Systems like the crowd-funded ENERQi are a reliable solution for turning almost any furniture surface into a wireless charging station, making life at sea much more convenient. Plus, by removing the need for cables and plugs for various devices, these essential devices quickly make the superyacht’s expertly crafted interior design sleeker and more modern. <img src="/uploads/store/photo/43102/image/large-ed25df428a63ae38c2a02718674b5faa.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/43102">4K AV Distribution System Crestron’s content delivery system, DM-NVX, is a must-have for any yacht, as it is able to be integrated perfectly with almost any enterprise IT network to provide pixel-perfect images on screens throughout the various relaxation areas, saloons and staterooms on board. <img src="/uploads/store/photo/97662/image/large-382284b8f26339969322995ab1ecac90.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/97662">Drone &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; For those who wish to document their time at sea, the popular DJI drone is the weapon of choice for expert photography and video and is used by both crew and guests. When operated correctly in safe and open environments, a drone can help capture some impressive content to share and promote the cool side of yachting. <img src="/uploads/store/photo/97664/image/large-a43e827c0595cc3ca4a575118f5e5323.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/97664">Lift Foils This flying surfboard uses an electric hydrofoil that extends below the water. The board lifts out of the water so that the rider can move through the air in true superhero-fashion. Make room in the toystore for this fun favourite to guarantee a good time for all the thrill-seekers on board. Why not even use the drone to get some impressive footage whilst out on the water. &nbsp; <img src="/uploads/store/photo/97759/image/large-26fe0c1fff7e084f16859120b32884fd.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/97759">Jet Surf &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Another one for the toy store. Rather than a flying surfboard, this is a motorised board which has sparked a new craze that pushes the boundaries of water sports. Jet Surf riding is easy to learn, but difficult to master. This toy can be used by people of all abilities - but mainly those who seek a hit of adrenalin. <img src="/uploads/store/photo/97760/image/large-a1159c8abf1e9d6bdab48a691feafc14.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/97760">The Frame TV by Samsung Make this high-tech quantum LED TV a living room centrepiece and display a range of artwork on the smart display from the collection of specially-selected art from world-famous artists and galleries, or use it as a high-quality cinematic television. To make real art of this smart TV, choose from one of the many customisable bezels, frames and finishes.To find out more about <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4384" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yacht Intelligence (Company)">Yacht Intelligence</a> and how they can provide custom audio-visual and control solutions, including AV systems, control systems, lighting and structured cabling for many of today's superyacht new build and refit projects, contact the company directly via the details found below to discuss how they can work together with clients, owners and shipyards.&nbsp;

Top 10 coolest yacht tech toys you should have on board 

There is a vast range of yacht tech available, and so SYT and Yacht Intelligence find out what the smart options are.    

Top 10 coolest superyacht tech toys you should have on board

The way audio-visual systems are integrated into yachts has changed significantly. It used to be all about who had the biggest plasma screen, but today the yacht AV market - and particularly on board cinema - is flooded with new technologies which promise to make the hairs on the back of your neck stand up. From 9D action cinemas with dramatic special effects like fog, lightning, touch, feel and movement, to your own private IMAX theatre, it must be difficult to know what to invest in and what will be a passing fad which may leave you with redundant equipment in a matter of years. We asked Managing Director and Founder of Yacht Intelligence, Alan Bernardi, for his thoughts.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/153394/image/large-92871f5ff64df7d003bb89337e5d0a3e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/153394">What do you think about emerging cinema technologies for yachts?"I have an issue with so-called ‘cinemas’ on many yachts. I think many promise excitement but result in disappointment. Due to the restrictive physical environment, poor planning, a focus on gimmicky technology, and designers focusing on form rather than function, owners often compromise too much; they end up with an ordinary room with a large TV and speaker system in it. That’s not a cinema. It may well be a very nice room with acceptable sound but that’s all it is. The world is fixated on gimmicks - 4D all the way to 9D is being talked about, sold and tested - but in my opinion these novelties will soon wear off, not least when the realities of maintenance and support come to light.I believe that the investment should be focused on creating a luxury experience in keeping with the rest of the yacht. When a system is planned and engineered properly, enjoying optimum quality images and sound in a custom made cinematic environment becomes a unique and exciting experience".What should the ultimate on board cinema experience be like?"The key to achieving an amazing cinematic experience on a yacht is to get everything right at the design stage by working closely with the interior designer, gaining their trust and helping them to understand our process. Our team works from a blank canvas and builds a custom installation from the backbone up. This encompasses cable infrastructure, ergonomic design, acoustic performance and interior finish as well as the hardware and software to create a luxurious and comfortable viewing environment.I firmly believe that intelligent lighting controls, the layering of wall panels for optimum acoustics and the materials used add significantly to the overall experience, without the need to invest in ‘the next big thing’ technically, that could be out of date fast. Positioning is important too: a lot of cinemas are automatically located on the main decks which ends up making them an entertainment space rather than a cinema. Ideally the lower decks of the yacht is a good use of space but, in our opinion, the experience should begin before you enter the lobby creating the ultimate cinema experience".Ultimately, is it all about the look and feel?"Absolutely not! What we call the backbone – the cabling, communication systems and the way the system is engineered and installed - is absolutely critical to the end result. Often, streaming movie premieres shore side is possible in a private home theatre, but when you’re out to sea (when you want the entertainment switched on!) bandwidth speeds throttle performance. That’s one of the reasons why effective planning and management is important".How do you go about planning an installation?"If I said we designed by numbers, it will sound like I’m oversimplifying, but seriously, the numbers need to stack up. The fundamental elements in creating a cinema room is image engineering and to determine the reference level; this is the optimum audio level at the listening position, which, in itself, is the best position in the room to view and listen to the movie.The size of the room should determine the size of the screen. This, in turn, determines the viewing distance and seating layout. This leads onto the power of the amplifiers needed to fill the space for perfect audio, positioning of other equipment such as filters and UPS systems, and also the choice of projector which is determined by the light output required. It’s only by working through this methodically that you can create the ‘wow factor’ that everyone wants to achieve in their private cinema.After conducting a full lifestyle analysis and listening to owner’s ideas, we present our plans as a 3D vision. To ensure that everything is correct, we draw the room in detail using CAD, visualising seating and showing where key equipment will be placed. We go through recommended hardware and assemble a product portfolio with full product specifications too. This process enables owners to get a clear understanding of what the finished product will look like and how it will perform".<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/153395/image/large-02ea28457194513613fb4c277d2fc26f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/153395">Tell us about Yacht Intelligence."I founded Yacht Intelligence on the back of twenty years industry experience of integrating audio visual systems into properties and yachts around the world. As a Director of a major AV systems company working in the marine market, I was responsible for many multi-million pound projects, leading a team that was responsible for creating some ground-breaking concepts.Today, I continue to work on multi-million pound contracts but do so with a much more personal service. Because we’re a smaller team, we are able to get really involved in the detail and we work hard to understand our client’s needs before proposing a bespoke solution. We provide a single point of contact for the whole project and take full project management responsibility through the installation phase and for ongoing support afterwards.It’s very important to lay down expectations early on, setting budgets and project managing in detail so that we can achieve best value at all times and work within any constraints money or time-wise. Over the years we have learnt to work with interior designers to achieve a luxurious, comfortable and beautiful finish but at the same time, enable us to engineer the system to the highest standards effectively. I’m not interested in rolling out the latest gadgets because we have a sales target to do so. I am interested in creating innovative, customised experiences which blow you away".<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/153396/image/large-6ad56700e2082c84c41c153e20a36f21.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/151437">You’re well known as one of the companies behind the ‘Nemo Room’ project, the first IMAX Private Theatre on board a 150 metre yacht designed by Ken Freivokh. Is this as good as it gets for Yacht Intelligence?"Not at all. Nemo Room was an amazing opportunity and one that we are extremely proud to be associated with. However, it is just one concept idea for one owner – and we have many more of those up our sleeves!"By SYT

Talking audio-visual systems with Yacht Intelligence

Providing custom audio visual and control solutions for superyachts, Yacht Intelligence has announced a collaboration with IMAX Corporation to create the world’s first IMAX Private Theatre on board a superyacht.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/151437/image/large-a8aafb3f5c6f4104b30bbf46c3c860ff.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/151437">The concept aims to provide a groundbreaking private theatre experience where not only current theatrical blockbuster releases can be watched, but underwater CCTV images can also be projected onto the walls inside the theatre, giving the concept its name, The Nemo Room. The high-tech private media room is being designed to entertain in a multitude of ways with both the owner’s family and their guests in mind. It is anticipated that the theatre will also be used for Blu-Ray, streaming live content, gaming and video conferencing.Having come up with the original idea for The Nemo Room, Yacht Intelligence, with the support of IMAX, approached renowned yacht designer, Ken Freivokh, to help take the concept to the next level. Ken Freivokh was coincidentally designing a 150 metre superyacht for a client who he knew would be happy to try novel ideas. This project has created the perfect opportunity for the group to work on this unique concept.Alan Bernardi, Founder and Managing Director of Yacht Intelligence commented: “With IMAX’s strict parameters and incredibly specific technological requirements, our first challenge was to persuade them to take us seriously, and prove that it would be possible to create a truly unique private theatre on a superyacht."The design team of the project are working within the space of the hull in order to create the desired cinema experience. The client will enter the theatre via sliding walls instead of doors, thus creating a seamless surround screen and completing the famous IMAX immersive effect.Each IMAX Private Theatre system has an image enhancer and uses a state-of-the-art dual 4K projection system to deliver lifelike crystal-clear images, as well as a microphone system that collects data from each individual channel in the speaker system and performs daily tuning calibrations, correcting the response of the channel so the sound is always perfectly tuned.A challenge is posed, however, in the size of the typical IMAX movie, being anywhere up to 60GB. A typical movie download for the average client with a 10-20Mbps bandwidth will take four hours, and so working to solve the bandwidth issue will be a critical success factor for the project.Wim G.e. De Vos of Genesis Technologies, a distributor for IMAX Private Theatres comments, “Yacht Intelligence and Ken Freivokh Design are doing an amazing job like few others in the industry could. Superyachts are huge entertainment vessels and the use of good technologies is an integral part of this. There are so many exciting things happening in this space – I see this as just the tip of the iceberg of what can be achieved.”The Nemo Room concept is believed to be able to be integrated into yachts of over 100 metres, as long as they’re designed in at an early stage. Bernadi states, “I firmly believe that our work will change the way people look at AV on superyachts in the future.”By Gemma Fottles

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