Whirlpool for Yachtley Mega Yacht
A Centro Italia Yachting® story, a Made in Italy story.”
Centro Italia Yachting® designs and builds custom whirlpool tubs for yachts and mega yachts. We are proud to present one of our project case studies, showcasing a prototype that exemplifies our design and engineering capabilities: the creation of the “Swimming Pool Element”, a custom-built whirlpool tub positioned at the center of the foredeck aboard the Elements 80M mega yacht by Yachtley.
The Project
Led by Cristiano Gatto and his expert team, the project involved the design and construction of a rectangular whirlpool tub measuring 590 cm × 245 cm × 75 cm. The system was enhanced with two curved glass waterfalls on either side and a mixed whirlpool system for a luxurious bathing experience.
A high-design lighting system was integrated, featuring RGB optical strips installed at the bottom to illuminate the tub’s perimeter, creating a stunning visual effect that enhances both aesthetics and ambiance.
Construction Process
To ensure the highest level of precision and quality, Centro Italia Yachting® employed advanced 3D rendering systems to map every detail of the tub step by step. This approach allowed us to produce a realistic and reliable prototype for the structural build, guiding the process from the polyurethane model to the fiberglass tub, the system assembly, and all final finishing touches.
Our customizable production process for whirlpool tubs on mega yachts can be summarized as follows:
- Design and 3D development using DWG rendering, including technical and operational simulations of the structure
- Creation of the female model in polyurethane (density 70 kg/m³), finished with two coats of resin and sanded with 110/160 grit
- Construction of the complete whirlpool tub in reinforced vinylester, 20 mm thick
- Waterproofing and finishing with neopentyl gelcoat
- Mounting and securing the tub onto a stainless steel AISI 316 frame
- Installation of all systems: filtration, water treatment, whirlpool, air injection, recirculation, electrical panels, underwater fiber-optic lighting, and heating
- Integration of a custom-made high-density polyethylene tank
- Bonding of the curved glass panels to the tub shell using a specialized adhesive
- Placement of touch on/off buttons on one side of the tub
- Filling, multi-day operational testing, and final inspection
- Packaging of the finished product with protective materials for shipment to its destination
The tub was constructed at the Centrostiledesign facility in Imola, where it was assembled on a stainless steel frame to facilitate transport and installation aboard the mega yacht in Turkey.
Features and Details of the Custom Whirlpool Tub
The Swimming Pool Element tub is a showcase of craftsmanship, engineering, and design. Key features include:
- Custom fiberglass whirlpool tub with two lateral crystal waterfalls
- AISI 316 stainless steel frame for robust support and secure installation
- Murano-style painted base design for an artistic, high-end finish
- Whirlpool system with:
- 6 stations featuring 6 small jets each
- 4 stations with 2 small jets each
- 4 stations with 3 large jets each
- Air injection system with 10 general nozzles for enhanced hydrotherapy
- Drainage system compliant with RINA standards
- Transformer for system power supply: 380V + neutral
- Integrated system for water recirculation, filtration, treatment, and heating with an electric heat exchanger
- Cascade overflow system featuring two curved glass panels for a visually striking water effect
Automation and Remote Control System
To provide convenient and intuitive management of the whirlpool systems, Centro Italia Yachting® developed a PLC-controlled Siemens automation system, ensuring full automation of the tub. This advanced solution allows high-speed, high-performance management of all functions via an interface that communicates directly with the yacht’s main system and onboard network.
The automation system enables remote control of all key operations, including:
- Automatic filling and emptying of the tub
- Filtration and heating maintenance
- Activation of the whirlpool function
- Simultaneous opening and closing of valves upon command
- Jet control and direction
- Usage time display in seconds
- Water temperature management
This system combines ease of use, efficiency, and precision, allowing the yacht crew to operate the whirlpool tub safely and seamlessly.
Soundproofing the Base of the Whirlpool Tub
During the construction of the "Swimming Pool Element" whirlpool tub for the Elements 80M mega yacht, Centro Italia Yachting® implemented a comprehensive soundproofing strategy to minimize noise generated by the system. Key measures included:
- Careful securing of the tub to its base to prevent vibrations
- Use of variable-speed electric pumps, allowing noise and energy consumption to be reduced. These pumps feature asynchronous motors with permanent magnets and AC electronic commutation.
- Reduction of water splashing noise through precise adjustment of jet flow rates
The soundproofing panels were specially designed to prevent liquid absorption and provide excellent shock resistance due to their elasticity.
Panel specifications include:
- Static load resistance up to 120 kg/cm²
- Reduction of natural frequencies down to 10 Hz
- Standard roll dimensions: 1500 × 5000 mm with thicknesses of 12.5 mm and 25 mm, with custom sizes available
The final step in the soundproofing process involved Sylodyn coating, a critical element for maintaining the mechanical and physical properties of the structure over time. Sylodyn provides:
- Vibration reduction
- Maximum static load capacity of 60 kg/cm²
- Temporary overload capacity
- Resistance to pool water, oils, and mineral greases
- Frequency reduction down to 10 Hz
- Self-extinguishing properties
- Custom configurations tailored to project needs
This combination of advanced materials and precision engineering ensures the Swimming Pool Element operates quietly and efficiently, enhancing comfort aboard the mega yacht.
Insurance for Whirlpool Tubs in the Marine Sector
As with all Centro Italia Yachting® marine creations, the Swimming Pool Element is protected by DINAMICA BUSINESS 360, a specialized insurance solution for the nautical sector. This policy covers the entire construction process at the shipyard and is valid both in Italy and abroad.
Upon delivery, coverage continues throughout the warranty period, with territorial extensions as follows:
- RC0: valid worldwide
- RCT: valid worldwide, excluding Canada, the USA, and Mexico
Request Information
For more information about this project, to schedule on-site inspections at shipyards, request custom quotations, or for any other inquiries regarding pool & wellness solutions in the marine industry, please use our dedicated contact form.
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