A billionaire with a passion for James Bond has revealed plans for his latest superyacht, themed around the spy films. John Staluppi, who already owns a fleet of 18 luxury vessels with names including Octopussy and Skyfall, is building a new 82-metre flagship called Project Bond.
The vessel, currently under construction, is his biggest yet and will be the largest yacht ever built by Bilgin Yachts in Turkey. Designed around light, space, long-range cruising and the owner's personal requirements, the exterior styling and naval architecture come from Unique Yacht Design, while the interior is by H2 Yacht Design.
Art Deco and Bond Details
Jonny Horsfield, founder and creative director of H2 Yacht Design, said the starting point was the client's preference for a contemporary interpretation of Art Deco, with added Bond-themed details such as pictures of the actors in the role.
“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,” said Horsfield.
“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. Unlike many yachts of this size today we are not following a new fashion or trend; instead we have created a timeless classic interior.”
Open Staircase and Beach Club
One of the yacht's principal architectural features is an open staircase connecting the main saloon with a Bond-style beach club, perfect for drinks taken shaken, not stirred.
“The highlight of this series by Bilgin must be the open staircase from the main saloon down to the beach club,” said 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.”
The project has also been heavily influenced by Jeanette Staluppi, whose input helped shape the layout, atmosphere and day-to-day usability of the yacht, particularly in its entertainment and relaxation areas. Her husband, yacht owner John Staluppi, said one space had already emerged as a particular favourite: “The owners deck bar area, it’s a place to get together with your guest and have great conversation.”
Definitive Bond Yacht
Project Bond is the latest in a long line of yachts owned by Mr Staluppi, who is known for giving his vessels names inspired by the James Bond films. Among his previous yachts have been For Your Eyes Only, Octopussy, Moonraker, Casino Royale, Skyfall and Diamonds Are Forever. He has owned 18 in total.
For Simon Graham, sales broker at FGI Yacht Group and the owner's representative, Project Bond is intended to be more than a statement – as it may be his definitive and last Bond yacht. “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,” said Graham. “For him, this is about creating lasting memories rather than chasing the next build.”
Berkay Yılmaz, commercial director of Bilgin Yachts, praised the work of the design and build teams: “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.”
Staluppi recently visited the shipyard to inspect the yacht's progress and said he had been particularly impressed by the quality of the construction. He said what stood out most was “the way the welding is coming and the fit and finish of the steel and the aluminum.” Asked what he hoped visitors would experience when first stepping on board, he said: “Great quality, lots of space and the fit and finish of the furniture.”
Project Bond is expected to continue Mr Staluppi's long-standing association with James Bond, becoming the largest and most personalised vessel in his fleet to date.
