Inside Project Bond: Bilgin reveals the interior of its 82m flagship
by Bilgin Yachts 27 Aug 23:23 PDT
Bilgin Yachts has unveiled the interior concept of its 82-metre flagship Project Bond, offering the first detailed look inside a yacht conceived around light, volume, long-range capability and a deeply personal approach to life at sea.
Currently under construction as the largest yacht in Bilgin's history, Project Bond represents the next evolution of the shipyard's acclaimed 80-metre platform. With exterior styling and naval architecture by Unique Yacht Design and interiors by H2 Yacht Design, the yacht has been conceived as a true owner-led flagship, combining American-market practicality with the refinement and atmosphere of a world-class custom superyacht.
For Simon Graham, Sales Broker at FGI Yacht Group and the owner's representative, the yacht has always been about more than scale. "From an emotional standpoint, John wanted a yacht where he could sit back, travel the world with family and friends, and simply enjoy life at sea in this next chapter," says Graham. "For him, this is about creating lasting memories rather than chasing the next build."
That vision has defined the interior approach from the outset. Rather than creating a purely visual statement, Project Bond has been designed as a highly liveable environment for extended time on board, while still delivering the sense of occasion expected of an 82-metre flagship. Expansive glazing, flowing sightlines and a seamless relationship between interior and exterior spaces create an atmosphere that is light-filled, immersive and closely connected to the sea.
A particularly personal dimension of the project lies in the contribution of Jeanette Staluppi, whose influence has helped shape the yacht's layout, atmosphere and day-to-day livability. Her input has been especially important in defining the entertainment and relaxation areas, ensuring the yacht feels not only bespoke in appearance, but deeply tailored to the owners' lifestyle on board. For the yacht owner John Staluppi, one area already stands out as especially personal: "The owners deck bar area, it's a place to get together with your guest and have great conversation."
For Jonny Horsfield, Founder and Creative Director of H2 Yacht Design, the design began with a clear stylistic direction rooted in the client's own preferences. "The client has previously owned a yacht designed by H2 Design with a contemporary interior, but he was particularly impressed with two interiors we had designed that illustrated our modern take on art deco style, so this was the starting point," says Horsfield.
From there, the concept evolved into an interior that balances comfort with presence. "The clients live on board for many weeks a year so primarily the interior has to be liveable and comfortable; however, I'm definitely trying to create a grand rich style and a definite WOW factor," Horsfield explains. "Unlike many yachts of this size today we are not following a new fashion or trend; instead we have created a timeless classic interior."
That balance between richness and usability runs throughout the yacht. H2 developed the interior and exterior together, creating a consistent design language across the major living areas and deck spaces while tailoring the yacht around the way the owners intend to use her. "We design both interior and exterior areas as one; this way we maintain a design language between them," adds Horsfield. "Working with the clients, we review the exterior deck layouts around their lifestyle."
A defining architectural feature of the design is the open staircase linking the main saloon to the beach club, reinforcing the sense of openness and connection between the yacht's principal social spaces. "The highlight of this series by Bilgin must be the open staircase from the main saloon down to the beach club," says Horsfield. "Connecting these two areas so openly is very rare. The main saloon is the highlight area of the interior as she captures the modern art deco vibe perfectly."
From the owner's side, practicality remained just as important as atmosphere. Graham notes that the yacht had to deliver exceptional volume and natural light, true long-range cruising capability, effortless yet impressive performance, and access to the destinations that matter most to the owners' way of life.
"The rare combination of scale, deep personalization, and practical intelligence is what makes Project Bond distinct," says Graham. "The emphasis on volume, natural light and an open, immersive connection to the sea stands out." He also highlights Bilgin's adaptability as a defining part of the process. "John has been very clear that Bilgin's exceptional flexibility and genuine willingness to adapt to his vision were instrumental throughout the project," Graham says. "They didn't push a rigid formula or say, 'It can't be done.' They listened, innovated on their proven 80-metre platform, and embraced solutions that balance cutting-edge performance with uncompromising comfort." Staluppi, who recently visited Bilgin to follow the project's progress, says what impressed him most was "the way the welding is coming and the fit and finish of the steel and the aluminum." Asked what he hopes people will feel the moment they step on board, his answer is direct: "Great quality, lots of space and the fit and finish of the furniture."
Berkay Yilmaz, Commercial Director of Bilgin Yachts, also underlines the strength of the interior concept and its execution. "Absolutely stunning interior design. Every detail has been thoughtfully considered, creating a perfect balance of elegance, sophistication, and timeless luxury. A truly exceptional yacht interior -refined, harmonious, and beautifully executed. Congratulations to the entire team behind this remarkable work!"
Engineered with the American market in mind while retaining true worldwide capability, Project Bond combines a 3.6-metre shallow draft, a 5,000-nautical-mile-plus range and a top speed of 17.5 knots. This blend of accessibility, performance and tailored design positions the yacht as one of the most distinctive new-build projects in the 80m+ segment.
The reveal also demonstrates the individuality possible within Bilgin's larger platform philosophy.
"Project Bond actually shows how each 263 series can be totally unique from each vessel by the incredible interior style differences between each yacht," says Horsfield. "We have optimized the layout to what I believe is the ultimate iteration of this series."
As construction progresses, Project Bond continues to define a new flagship chapter for Bilgin Yachts; one shaped by owner vision, design character and global cruising ambition.
Further details on the yacht's layout, materials and onboard features will be announced in due course.
Brief Technical Specifications:
- Hull configuration: Displacement
- Hull material: Steel
- S/Structure material: Aluminum
- LOA: 82.00m
- LWL at full load: 74.96m
- B.max: 13.00m
- Draught at full load: 3.60m
- Displacement: 1,730t at 3.50m draft
- Gross tonnage: 2,150 GT
- Fuel capacity: 195,000lt
- Water capacity: 45,000lt
- Main engines: MTU 16V 4000M73
- Engines power: 2x2.560 kW @ 1,970 RPM
- Maximum speed: 17,5 knots
- Cruising speed: 15 knots
- Range at economical speed at half load: @5,000+ miles
- Exterior Design: Unique Yacht Design
- Naval Architect: Unique Yacht Design
- Interior Design: H2 Yacht Design
- Builder: Bilgin Yachts