Satisfaction, the first unit in the Southern Wind SW105 mini-series with naval architecture by Farr Yacht Design, was commissioned by a performance-oriented owner who was looking for the latest in yachting technology and entertainment solutions. The interior concept by Nauta Design was customized in line with the owner’s request for a yacht with house-like ergonomics. The brief included an integrated system that catered to his audio-visual and domotic needs on board.
At the heart of the solutions developed by Videoworks is a centralized rack system to avoid local racks distributed throughout the yacht and provide a more ‘clutter-free’ environment. In the cabins and other guest areas, for example, there are only speakers and TV screens. The solution also provides additional privacy, as any maintenance required by the crew does not require access to the guest areas.
Until recently, HDMI cables were the industry standard for transmitting AV signals. The problem with HDMI is that it has a maximum distribution range of 15m. Aboard Satisfaction, Videoworks installed an HDBaseT video distribution system that represents a significant advance by transmitting full HD digital video, audio, Ethernet, and various control signals through a single LAN cable. All that is required is a low-profile receiver behind each TV set that converts the signals back into HDMI.
The wireless LAN controller also provides global wi-fi coverage and management. To avoid wireless bottlenecks, networking devices are supported by multigigabit Cisco Catalyst switches.
Even the crew benefit from the latest technology with a frameless, 4K Aquavision TV screen in the crew mess with a mirrored finish. Designed for use in work environments such as galleys, Aquavision created the world’s first waterproof television in 1997.
Top audio brands were specified throughout, such as Bowers & Wilkins B&W CCM 382 speakers inside the yacht and a dedicated, full-party audio system on deck with weatherproof Sonance VP65R-XT speakers.
All the AV and domotic controls for lighting, curtains, blinds and air conditioning are managed via iPad tablets with customizable touch commands. In addition, Videoworks’ MyInfo system allows the owners and crew to view essential information such as charting, CCTV or weather forecasting on their hand-held devices.