Custom whirlpool installation on a Baglietto yacht
“A Centro Italia Yachting® story, a Made in Italy story.”
Centro Italia Yachting® oversaw the construction of a custom whirlpool tub for a Baglietto yacht. Below are all the details of the structure’s construction, from the preliminary analysis phase to testing and commissioning.
The Client’s Request
We were asked to build a high-design whirlpool tub to be installed on a private yacht, featuring a customized structure and functions, made with lightweight and durable materials.
To meet this requirement, Centro Italia Yachting® designed its first female polyurethane mold, a vinylester resin tub finished in gelcoat, with a stainless steel AISI 316 coupling frame and installation of both the whirlpool and lighting systems. The whirlpool tub was built in fiberglass and conceived for complete customization in both functional and aesthetic terms.
Features of the Custom Whirlpool Tub for Yachts
The project’s technical features are as follows:
- custom resin whirlpool tub with cascade overflow;
- AISI 316 stainless steel frame for shell fixing;
- Bisazza 2x2 mosaic cladding;
- whirlpool system with 16 hydro/air jets with RGB backlighting;
- recirculation system with cascade overflow;
- heating system with electric heat exchanger;
- drainage system compliant with RINA regulations.
Construction Phases
Construction and Finishing
The project began with the construction of the female model in polyurethane ds. 60 kg/m³, machined using CNC technology, followed by the application of two coats of resin and a grey polyester primer sanded with 120/180 grit.
Refinishing
The tub was completed in reinforced vinylester (25 mm thick) and finished with a neopentyl gelcoat coating with reinforcements.
Tub Soundproofing
Over the years, Centro Italia Yachting® has developed various solutions to counteract the noise generated by pool vibrations caused by whirlpool systems or counter-current swimming systems.
First, we ensure that the tub is properly secured to its base. For soundproofing, we chose to use electric pumps with asynchronous motors featuring permanent magnets and electronic AC commutation. These operate at variable speeds depending on the set revolutions, thus working more quietly than traditional electric pumps. They also allow for adjusting the water flow through jets, overflow systems or waterfalls, effectively reducing noise levels.
For complete soundproofing, Centro Italia Yachting® uses soundproof panels positioned beneath the tub. Their function is to prevent vibration propagation and completely eliminate noise. In addition, they are waterproof and perfectly absorb shocks thanks to their closed-cell elastic structure.
This material minimizes natural frequencies down to 10 Hz and optimally supports static loads. Standard rolls measure 1500x5000 mm, with thicknesses of 12.5 and 25 mm, but custom modules can also be made.
We use the Sylodyn coating, characterized by the following physical and mechanical properties:
- static load up to 60 kg/cm² and overload capacity for short periods;
- vibration damping;
- resistance to oils, mineral greases, and treated water from mini pools;
- self-extinguishing properties;
- customization options.
Below are the combined properties of elasticity and shock absorption:
- NB: permanent static load up to 0.075 N/mm²
- NC: permanent static load up to 0.15 N/mm²
- ND: permanent static load up to 0.35 N/mm²
- NE: permanent static load up to 0.75 N/mm²
- NF: permanent static load up to 1.5 N/mm²
Connecting the Tub to the Yacht
The tub is connected to the yacht using an AISI 316 stainless steel frame.
Installation
Once the connection is made, the installation of all systems and accessories begins — including filtration, whirlpool, heating, lighting, and more.
Cladding
At this stage, the Bisazza mosaic cladding is installed using a two-component adhesive, followed by epoxy grout sealing.
Filling and Testing
After completing the cladding and grid installation, technicians fill the tub to perform testing and commissioning. All our functional tests are carried out using highly professional equipment.
Centro Italia Yachting® for the Marine Industry
All our projects are developed with constant attention to the client’s preferences and tastes. We share 3D models and renderings of the final outcome throughout the process. We can create custom pools and whirlpool tubs for ships, yachts, mega yachts, and any type of vessel, thanks to our advanced technology, which allows us to work even on complex structures in terms of shape, size, and characteristics.
Our projects are carried out in compliance with current regulations, and we are covered by DINAMICA BUSINESS 360, a specific insurance policy for the marine sector, which covers the entire construction period in the shipyard and, after delivery, the full warranty period, including territorial extension: RC0 for all countries worldwide, RCT for all countries except the USA, Canada, and Mexico. The policy is valid both in Italy and abroad.
