Glossary of Technical Terms and Components for Yacht Pools

When designing pools and wellness areas on yachts, specific terminology and technical language are often used, which can be difficult to understand for those unfamiliar with the industry: from structures and technological systems to accessories and refitting operations. This section provides a glossary designed to clarify the main terms used, offering a helpful guide to fully understand every aspect of on-board pools, from A to Z.

Term	Description
ABS Jets	Components made of ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) used for water distribution in pools, hot tubs, and fountains. Depending on pressure and flow rate, each jet can distribute water for approximately 30 cubic meter
Active Oxygen	A disinfectant agent alternative to chlorine, often used in combination with activating products. Ideal for wellness tubs and spas on yachts because it is odorless, gentle on the skin, and compatible with automatic dosing systems.
Air Button	The air button for pools is a device that allows activation of various pool functions, such as hydromassage or counter-current swimming. It is operated by pressing, allowing airflow to activate the system.
Air Injection	Air injection in pools is a system that generates an airflow to keep the water in motion, enhancing both water quality and the well-being of bathers.
Ambient Lighting	Perimeter decorative lighting (under pool edges, stairs, seats, spa walls) that creates atmosphere and visual comfort. Often LED, dimmable, and coordinated with internal chromotherapy.
Anti-Scale Treatment	An automatic system or additive that prevents limescale buildup on heaters, jets, and surfaces, ensuring system efficiency and longevity even with highly mineralized water.
App (Remote Control)	A mobile application for remotely managing the pool, spa, lights, temperature, cover, and filters. Particularly useful on yachts for smart control from the bridge or technical area. CentroitaYachting offers dedicated software for the management and monitoring of onboard pools and wellness areas.
Asynchronous Motor	An electric motor that operates with alternating current, where the rotor speed is always lower than the magnetic field speed. It is commonly called an induction motor.
Automatic Chlorination	A system that doses chlorine in a controlled manner to disinfect the water. It can operate with liquid chlorine, tablets, or through saltwater electrolysis. Essential for unattended or low-maintenance management.
Automatic Disinfection	A water sanitation process managed by electronic systems that dose chlorine, active oxygen, or regulate pH levels. Essential for onboard systems, where management must be reliable and minimally invasive.
Automatic Dosing System	An integrated system for the controlled dosing of chemicals (chlorine, pH, active oxygen) or water replenishment. It ensures water stability on board with minimal manual intervention.
Automatic Management	A centralized system that autonomously controls the functions of the pool.
Automatic pH/Chlorine Regulation	An electronic system that monitors and adjusts pH and disinfectant levels in real time, maintaining balanced water conditions. Essential for onboard pools with remote or unattended management.
Backwash (Reverse Flushing)	A technical procedure for the automatic cleaning of the sand filter, during which the water flow is reversed to remove impurities accumulated in the filtering material.
Bacteriostatic	A material or treatment that inhibits bacterial growth on surfaces in contact with water (pipes, filters, grates). Essential on board to ensure hygiene in confined environments.
Blower (Air Generator)	A pump that injects air into the hydromassage jets to create a bubbling effect. It can be equipped with a silencing system and non-return valves specifically designed for marine environments.
Chaise longue	A padded piece of furniture with an extended seat, typically armless and featuring a reclined backrest, designed to promote relaxation by the pool or in a hot tub.
Check Valve	A hydraulic component that allows water to flow in only one direction, preventing backflow in the circuits. Essential for protecting pumps, blowers, dosing units, and disinfection systems.
Chromotherapy	RGB LED technology installed in the pool or spa tub to create colorful light effects. Used to relax the mind, boost mood, and enhance the ambiance.
Circulation Pump	A key component of the system that ensures continuous water movement through the filter, heat exchanger, disinfection units, and jets. On yachts, low-consumption, quiet, and anti-vibration pumps are used.
Cloud Connectivity	The cloud network refers to a distributed infrastructure made up of servers, storage systems, and applications hosted online and accessible from anywhere in the world.
Compact Technical Unit	A preassembled group integrating pump, filter, dosing units, valves, and sensors in a small space. Essential for installation in engine rooms or technical compartments with limited access on board.
Compensation Tank	A supplementary structure, varying in size, usually located below ground level, designed to collect excess water overflowing from the main pool basin.
Compensation Zone (Tank)	A technical space where overflow water collects in overflow systems. It serves to maintain a constant water level in the basin even during heavy use or sea movement.
Containment Skirting	A perimeter element, often made of steel or composite, that protects the base of the pool or spa, facilitates integration into the deck, and can house wiring, drainage, or ambient lighting.
Continuous Use	Pools designed for year-round use, equipped with insulation, heating, automatic covers, and automatic disinfection systems to ensure consistent performance even while underway.
Corrosion Resistance	A fundamental property of materials used on yachts: marine stainless steels, technical plastics, special paints, and protective treatments are selected to withstand the saline environment.
Decorative Jet	An aesthetic effect created with vertically or angled flow nozzles that produce customizable water features, often accompanied by LED lighting. Used in visually impactful basins or on yacht terraces.
Digital Thermostat	A component that regulates the water temperature by setting a precise value. It is connected to heaters or heat exchangers and can be monitored from the bridge or technical room.
Drainage Network	A system of pipes that channels overflow or wash water to the ship’s drainage system. It must be designed to prevent stagnation, noise, or backflow, even during pitching motions.
Drainage System	A set of pipes and channels that ensure fast and safe water drainage in case of overflow or emptying. Designed to operate effectively even during the ship’s pitching and tilting motions.
Electric Pumps	Machines designed for pumping and moving liquids, powered by electrical energy.
Emotional Shower	An integrated wellness system that combines water jets, LED lighting, and scents to create a multisensory experience. Often used in spa areas or poolside on large yachts.
Energy Efficiency	A key aspect in the design of onboard systems. It includes tank insulation, the use of variable-speed pumps, LED lighting, and smart control systems to optimize consumption and enhance autonomy.
Evaporators	An evaporator is a fundamental component of a pool heat pump, responsible for absorbing heat from the external environment and transferring it to the pool water, thereby contributing to heating.
Filtration	An essential process for water cleaning, carried out using sand filters, cartridge filters, or sintered glass filters.
Filtration System	Its purpose is to maintain water purity by protecting it from deterioration caused by various factors such as surrounding vegetation, insects, bathing, weather conditions, climate, and other elements.
Filtration Unit	A technical assembly consisting of a pump, filter, valves, and fittings, often preassembled in stainless steel boxes or drawers.
Flow Regulator	A device that allows modulation of the amount of water passing through a circuit or jet. Used to balance flows in multi-jet systems or to optimize consumption and performance.
Flow Switch	A sensor that detects the presence and proper circulation of water within the piping system.
Floating Floor	A system that allows the pool floor to be raised or lowered, transforming it into a walkable surface.
Freeboard	The height or position of the pool relative to the deck or structural levels of the yacht. Crucial for designing drainage, water flow, and proper weight distribution on board.
Gasket EPDM	An EPDM gasket is made from ethylene-propylene-diene rubber (EPDM), a synthetic elastomer widely used in various industrial sectors for its resistance and durability properties.
Heating System	A system that keeps the pool/spa water at a constant temperature. It may include plate heat exchangers, electric heaters, marine heat pumps, or a connection to the ship’s thermal circuit.
Home Automation Integration	The ability to connect pool systems (lighting, temperature, cover, disinfection) with the yacht’s overall home automation system. It allows control via tablet, bridge, or remotely.
Hydrojet	High-Pressure Water Jet Technology used for targeted massage or counter-current swimming. Intensity can be adjusted, and the system can be wall-mounted or integrated into a swim station.
Hydrorelax	A commercial or technical term combining hydrotherapy and relaxation. It refers to integrated systems for onboard aquatic wellness, including contoured seating, airpool systems, chromotherapy, and combined massages.
Hydromassage	A system that combines water and air jets to stimulate muscles and promote relaxation. Stations can be integrated into seats, submerged loungers, or pool walls, with adjustable and customizable jets.
Hydromassage Jet	A nozzle that mixes air and water to produce a pressurized flow.
Hydromassage Jets	Devices that release a mixture of water and air into the tub, creating a massaging effect. They can be installed in both bathtubs and swimming pools.
Hydrospinning	Hydrospinning is a workout performed using an underwater stationary bike, known as a hydrobike, commonly found in onboard fitness areas. While similar to traditional spinning, this activity is carried out while submerged in water.
Hydraulic By-Pass	A secondary connection used to divert the water flow when external devices are present (heat exchangers, heat pumps, electrolysis systems). It allows maintenance or adjustments without shutting down the entire system.
Hydraulic System	A hydraulic system is a setup that uses pressurized fluids to generate and transmit force and motion. It consists of components that convert electrical energy into hydraulic energy, control pressure and direction, and finally transform it into mechanical energy to operate machinery or devices.
Illuminated Porthole (Decorative)	A design element installed on the walls of the pool or spa, featuring integrated LED lighting. It evokes the shape of nautical portholes and enhances the ambiance, especially in indoor or evening pools.
Illuminazione LED subacquea	A low-consumption system designed to enhance the pool's aesthetics and functionality. Available in white, RGB, or dynamic tones, with control options via app or control unit. Essential for creating the right evening ambiance.
Industrial Process Controller (PLC Siemens)	Siemens PLCs are programmable logic controllers that manage industrial processes such as robotics and mechanical operations. They are specialized digital computers designed to execute control programs and coordinate other components. Centro Italia Yachting, in collaboration with Siemens, has developed software for remote control and management of pools.
Installation Height	The elevation or position of the pool relative to the deck or structural levels of the yacht. Crucial for designing drainage, water flow, and proper weight distribution on board.
Integrated Technical Rooms	Spaces dedicated to system management (filters, pumps, dosing units, control panels), often recessed into the deck, beneath the pool, or in hidden compartments. Optimized for accessibility, ventilation, and noise reduction.
Level and Temperature Sensors	Electronic components that continuously monitor the pool water, activating refilling, alarms, or automatic temperature regulation. Resistant to saline environments and high humidity.
Level Float	A mechanical or electronic sensor that monitors the water level in the pool or compensation tank.
Level Sensor	A sensor (electronic or mechanical) that monitors the water volume in the pool or compensation tank, activating refilling or alarms in case of anomalies.
Load Distribution	An engineering calculation that evaluates the weight distribution of the pool on the deck or hull to prevent deformation or imbalance during navigation. Essential during the design phase.
Locali tecnici integrati	Spaces dedicated to system management (filters, pumps, dosing units, control panels), often recessed into the deck, beneath the pool, or in hidden compartments. Optimized for accessibility, ventilation, and noise reduction.
Marine AISI 316 Steel	Type 316 is a commonly used stainless steel with a corrosion resistance index (PREN number) typically ranging from 25 to 28.
Marine Chiller	A system for cooling the water in the pool or wellness tub, useful in tropical environments or to maintain consistent operating temperatures. Compact and specifically designed for the engine room.
Marine Fiberglass	A lightweight and durable composite material used to manufacture custom pools, technical panels, and spa structures, treated to withstand saltwater and constant humidity.
Marine Hydraulic System	A set of pipes, valves, pumps, and fittings specifically designed for managing fresh or salt water on board. It must be compact, resistant to vibrations, and easy to inspect.
Marine O-Ring	A circular gasket made of technical rubber, used to ensure watertight sealing of fittings, valves, and jets in environments subject to vibrations, temperature variations, and high humidity.
Marine Skimmer	A device for surface water suction, useful in non-overflow pools. Made of stainless steel or technical polymer, it is integrated into the pool walls and adapted for marine conditions.
Mirror Effect	A high-end aesthetic achieved through overflow pools on all sides, where the water reflects the surrounding environment. Highly valued in the yachting world for its elegance and the sense of continuity with the sea.
Mirror Polishing	A surface finish for stainless steel that, in addition to enhancing reflective aesthetics and perceived luxury, increases corrosion resistance. Widely used for jets, waterfalls, and visible accessories.
Movable Floor	A system that allows the pool floor to be raised or lowered, transforming it into a walkable surface.
Non-Slip Coating	A surface treatment applied to grates, edges, or flooring to ensure safety in wet environments. It is essential for compliance with IMO regulations and for use in marine settings.
Non-Slip Surface	A technical treatment for stairs, edges, and relaxation areas that prevents slipping risks. It can be integrated into porcelain stoneware, fiberglass, or IMO-certified specific coatings.
O-Ring nautico	A circular gasket made of technical rubber, used to ensure watertight sealing of fittings, valves, and jets in environments subject to vibrations, temperature variations, and high humidity.
Oblò illuminato (scenografico)	A design element installed on the walls of the pool or spa, featuring integrated LED lighting. It evokes the shape of nautical portholes and enhances the ambiance, especially in indoor or evening pools.
Onboard Electronics	A set of smart devices and control units that manage motors, pumps, lighting, heating, covers, water levels, and alarms. They must be compatible with marine electrical systems and protected against moisture and salt.
Onboard Electrical Panel	A centralized electromechanical unit that powers and protects the electrical circuits of the pool or spa: pumps, lights, blowers, heating, sensors. In marine applications, it must be waterproof (IP56 or higher) and compliant with marine standards.
Onboard Water Network	A system that supplies the pool or spa with fresh water (or seawater, if applicable), connected to the yacht’s main system. It must ensure stable pressure, primary filtration, and backflow protection.
Optical Tracking System	The optical tracking system, also known as an eye tracker, is a device that detects and records eye movements and pupil dilation.
Overflow	Overflow in a pool is a spillway system that allows water to flow out from one or more sides of the basin, creating continuous recirculation. Besides aiding surface cleaning, it produces a striking visual effect, giving the impression of swimming in a pool without edges.
Overflow Channel	A system designed to allow excess water from the pool to flow into a dedicated collection channel.
Overflow Grate	A perimeter element that collects overflow water in an overflow system.
Pannellatura Sylodyn	Sylodyn paneling is an anti-vibration coating made of closed-cell foam polyurethane, used to isolate noise and reduce vibrations.
Pannello di comando touch	A digital interface located on the bridge or in the technical area for managing the pool or spa: temperature, lighting, water level, pumps, blower, covers, and chromotherapy. Moisture-resistant and user-friendly. Centro Italia Yachting’s display is touch-enabled.
Pannelli di rivestimento	Aesthetic surfaces inside the pool or spa area. They can be made of technical porcelain stoneware, marine fiberglass, mosaic, stainless steel, or composite materials, all treated to resist humidity, salt, and chemicals.
Parameter Display	Interfaces (touchscreen, LED display, app) that allow real-time reading of temperature, pH, chlorine, flow, level, timer, and system status. Integrable with the yacht’s home automation system.
Piezoelectric Button	The piezoelectric button is used to control the water flow of a waterfall or pool cannon. Screwless, this pressure-sensitive electrical connector is waterproof and installed on the pool wall, preferably near the water feature it controls.
Pneumatic Button	The pneumatic button allows convenient activation of the hydromassage or counter-current pump while in the pool. It can be inserted into a standard jet, which serves as its support in this case.
Pompa di circolazione	A key component of the system that ensures continuous water movement through the filter, heat exchanger, disinfection units, and jets. On yachts, low-consumption, quiet, and anti-vibration pumps are used.
Pool Drainage	A technical system that enables the rapid emptying of the pool or spa, either in emergencies or for maintenance. It is connected to the ship’s greywater collection system.
Pool Lining	The internal finish of the pool or spa, selected based on aesthetic and functional criteria. It can be made of glass mosaic, technical porcelain stoneware, fiberglass, stainless steel, or composite materials, all compatible with the marine environment.
Pool Lift	An electro-hydraulic device that enables water access for people with reduced mobility. On yachts, it is often concealed or foldable, integrated into the pool design.
Pre-preg	Prepreg is a reinforced material consisting of fabric impregnated with resin. It is used in the production of composite material components.
Pressure Switch	A sensor that detects the presence and proper circulation of water within the piping system.
Quick-Release Fittings	Hydraulic connection components designed to allow quick disassembly and maintenance, even in tight spaces. Widely used in modular technical units on board.
Radiant Heating	A system that maintains a constant water temperature in the pool or spa. It can be implemented with heat exchangers, marine heat pumps, electric heaters, or a connection to the ship’s thermal circuit.
Remote Control	A wireless device that allows remote operation of lights, jets, temperature, covers, and chromotherapy. Often replaced or integrated with onboard smartphone or tablet apps.
Remote Control Unit	A panel or app used to control pool/spa functions (lights, temperature, jets, water levels). It can be integrated into the yacht’s home automation system or the control bridge.
Remote Display	A control screen (touch or LED) installed on the bridge or in the technical room, used to monitor and manage pool/spa parameters in real time, such as temperature, water levels, alarms, and operating modes.
Reinforced Pipes	Pipes made of pressure-rated PVC, cross-linked polyethylene, or stainless steel, resistant to temperature, pressure, and saline environments. In marine settings, they are secured with anti-vibration supports.
Relaxation Area	A space adjacent to the pool or spa dedicated to recovery and physical-mental well-being. It may include chaise longues, teak flooring, soft lighting, and sound diffusion.
Remote Control (Telecomando)	A wireless device that allows remote operation of lights, jets, temperature, covers, and chromotherapy. Often replaced or integrated with onboard smartphone or tablet apps.
Safety Lock	An electronic or manual system that prevents the accidental activation of pumps, lights, or accessories. Especially important when guests or children are on board.
Safety System	A set of automatic functions (e.g., pump lockout when water is absent, over-temperature alarms, automatic shutdown) that protect the system and users, especially during nighttime or unattended use.
Sanarium Sauna	The sanarium, also known as a bio sauna or soft sauna, is a sauna that lies between the Finnish sauna and the steam bath. It is characterized by moderate temperatures and high humidity.
Self-Cleaning Filter	A system that automatically cleans the filtering material (e.g., sand or glass) without the need for disassembly.
Self-Supporting Structure	A prefabricated basin reinforced with fiberglass, stainless steel, or composite materials, independent of structural supports. Useful on decks or superstructures, it facilitates quick assembly and installation.
Seasonal Use	Pools installed on yachts that operate only during certain times of the year (e.g., summer). In this case, systems are designed for safe storage, with easy draining, cleaning, and maintenance.
Skimmer	A pool skimmer is a fundamental element of the filtration system, usually located on the upper or side edge of the pool. Its function is to draw in surface water to remove floating debris such as leaves, insects, and hair, which are collected in an internal basket or filter, helping to keep the water clean.
Soft-Touch Buttons	Elegant and durable controls installed around the pool to activate jets, lights, blowers, or wellness sequences. Made of stainless steel or technical glass, backlit for evening use.
Soundproof Enclosure	A sound-absorbing structure designed to isolate pumps and motors installed near guest areas.
Soundproofing	A sound-insulating treatment applied to pumps, blowers, and technical rooms to reduce noise perceived in cabins or guest areas. Essential for onboard comfort.
Subframe	A subframe, or false frame, is a wooden or metal structure installed within the masonry to define and outline the window opening.
Submerged Lounger	A relaxation station integrated into the pool, contoured to the body and equipped with airpool jets, chromotherapy, or micro hydromassage jets. It allows users to enjoy the water while lying down, offering an immersive experience.
Submerged Staircase	An access system to the pool featuring integrated steps, often illuminated and non-slip. It may include stainless steel handrails, side seats, and wellness inserts (such as foot jets).
Support Board	A movable or integrated element in the pool that allows users to rest or sit in the water. It may include lighting, airpool jets, or microjets for a complete relaxation experience.
Technical Ballast (Weight Compensation)	A structural or fluid element (e.g., tanks or counter-structures) used to balance the weight of the pool or spa on the hull. Necessary to maintain the vessel’s balance and stability.
Technical Docking Area	A designated space for connections used to fill and empty pools while docked in port. It may include fittings, shut-off valves, and pre-filters.
Technical Porcelain Stoneware	A high-strength ceramic material used for pool edge cladding, platforms, stairs, and spa areas.
Technical Step	A prefabricated element that serves as a seat, step, or submerged relaxation area.
Technical Teak	A non-slip composite material that mimics the appearance of marine wood, resistant to moisture and salt. Used for cladding pool edges, walkways, seating, or outdoor spa flooring.
Timer Ciclico	A programmable device for the periodic activation of system functions (e.g., filtration, chemical dosing, lighting), useful for optimizing consumption and component lifespan.
Touch Control Panel	A digital interface located on the bridge or in the technical area for managing the pool or spa: temperature, lighting, water level, pumps, blower, covers, and chromotherapy. Moisture-resistant and user-friendly. Centro Italia Yachting’s display is touch-enabled.
Training Pool	A small pool designed for therapeutic or fitness use, often with counter-current swimming and hydromassage functions.
Venturi Injector	A hydraulic device that uses flow pressure to draw in and mix additives (chlorine, pH, active oxygen) without electrical components. It is used in compact spaces and autonomous systems. This element is also used to automatically inject air into the hydromassage jets.
Vibration (Absorption)	A crucial aspect on board: all components (pumps, blowers, fittings) must be mounted with anti-vibration supports to ensure quiet operation and long-term mechanical protection.
Water Blade	A water blade for pools is a decorative feature that produces a continuous flow of water, creating a visually striking effect. It can be installed in pools, ponds, gardens, or along walls.
Water Circulation	The continuous movement of water through the skimmer or overflow edge, filter, pump, and jets. Essential to ensure water quality, cleanliness, and even thermal distribution.
Water Quality	The set of chemical and physical parameters (pH, free chlorine, temperature, clarity) that determine the safety and comfort of the water in the pool. Onboard systems monitor water quality automatically and continuously.
Water Recirculation	A continuous process that ensures water filtration and disinfection. In marine environments, it is designed to maintain efficiency even during rolling and pitching motions.
Wellness Fan Coil	A compact unit dedicated to the ventilation and air conditioning of onboard spa environments.
Wellness Zone	An area dedicated to onboard well-being, which may include a spa, steam room, sauna, pool, hot tub, and relaxation area. Designed to integrate with the vessel’s style and offer an exclusive experience even underway.

Glossary of Technical Terms and Components for Yacht Pools and Wellness Accessories

Term

Description

ABS Jets

Active Oxygen

Air Button

Air Injection

Ambient Lighting

Anti-Scale Treatment

App (Remote Control)

Asynchronous Motor

Automatic Chlorination

Automatic Disinfection

Automatic Dosing System

Automatic Management

Automatic pH/Chlorine Regulation

Backwash (Reverse Flushing)

Bacteriostatic

Blower (Air Generator)

Chaise longue

Check Valve

Chromotherapy

Circulation Pump

Cloud Connectivity

Compact Technical Unit

Compensation Tank

Compensation Zone (Tank)

Containment Skirting

Continuous Use

Corrosion Resistance

Decorative Jet

Digital Thermostat

Drainage Network

Drainage System

Electric Pumps

Emotional Shower

Energy Efficiency

Evaporators

Filtration

Filtration System

Filtration Unit

Flow Regulator

Flow Switch

Floating Floor

Freeboard

Gasket EPDM

Heating System

Home Automation Integration

Hydrojet

Hydrorelax

Hydromassage

Hydromassage Jet

Hydromassage Jets

Hydrospinning

Hydraulic By-Pass

Hydraulic System

Illuminated Porthole (Decorative)

Illuminazione LED subacquea

Industrial Process Controller (PLC Siemens)

Installation Height

Integrated Technical Rooms

Level and Temperature Sensors

Level Float

Level Sensor

Load Distribution

Locali tecnici integrati

Marine AISI 316 Steel

Marine Chiller

Marine Fiberglass

Marine Hydraulic System

Marine O-Ring

Marine Skimmer

Mirror Effect

Mirror Polishing

Movable Floor

Non-Slip Coating

Non-Slip Surface

O-Ring nautico

Oblò illuminato (scenografico)

Onboard Electronics