Benetti unveils 70-metre superyacht design with solar-powered glass dome

Clear Waves, Benetti’s new 70-metre superyacht design, features a bold new wellness centre housed in a 400-square-metre glass dome that covers two decks and offers a 360-degree view. Intriguingly, the dome also generates power to offset the energy-management issues created by such a large glass surface. More than 60% of its surface incorporates translucent photovoltaic panels, according to the company. Additionally, the glass features “low-emissivity” properties, filters infrared radiation and protects against UV rays.

The design was developed through a collaboration between LUCA DINI Design & Architecture and The Longevity Suite. Benetti says that the concept was built around five pillars: environment, movement, social connection, mental and spiritual wellbeing, and technology. The wellness area, normally located on the lower deck, has been placed on the upper deck under the dome.

Power management and temperature control are key features of the design. Air is continuously filtered and the temperature regulated through a direct-expansion HVAC system featuring Capacity on Demand technology. Benetti says the geometry of the dome regulates ventilation and encourages air circulation through the stack effect, complemented by floor-level air intake to prevent direct draughts and maintain a consistent microclimate.

^{Translucent PV cells are used to help generate power and offset heat intake via the glass panels - rendering from Benetti}

“The engineering of Clear Waves thus charts a course towards the future, in perfect continuity with our Green Route — the research programme through which Benetti has been developing concrete solutions for environmental sustainability for more than twenty years — with this project marking a new chapter,” says Sebastiano Vida, Head of Product, Benetti.

The Clear Waves design uses an advanced hybrid configuration with a dual-fuel system, ready for HVO biofuel and methanol, already validated by Lloyd’s Register and developed in collaboration with Meccano Engineering.

The Power Management System coordinates power generation, storage and consumption on board. More than 250 square metres of solar panels are installed to contribute to the onboard power supply, with a capacity of up to 120 kWh. The project also incorporates systems for heat recovery, water treatment and emissions control, as part of an overall approach to efficiency and sustainability.