Billionaire John Staluppi, a devoted James Bond enthusiast, has revealed plans for his new superyacht, Project Bond, an 82-metre vessel that will become the largest in his fleet of 18 Bond-themed yachts. Currently under construction at Bilgin Yachts in Turkey, Project Bond is the shipyard's largest-ever build, featuring a cinema, a beach club, and an interior inspired by Art Deco with subtle nods to the spy film series.
Design and Architecture
The yacht's exterior styling and naval architecture are crafted by Unique Yacht Design, while the interior is designed by H2 Yacht Design. Jonny Horsfield, founder and creative director of H2 Yacht Design, explained that the starting point was the client's preference for a contemporary interpretation of Art Deco, enhanced with Bond-themed details such as portraits of actors who have played the iconic spy.
Horsfield noted that Staluppi was particularly impressed with two previous H2 interiors that showcased a modern take on Art Deco, which set the design direction. He emphasised the need for liveability and comfort, as the owners spend many weeks aboard each year, but also aimed to create a grand, rich style with a definite 'wow factor'.
Key Features and Owner's Input
One of the yacht's principal architectural features is an open staircase connecting the main saloon to a Bond-style beach club, designed for enjoying drinks 'shaken, not stirred'. Horsfield highlighted this staircase as a rare and exceptional element, seamlessly linking the two areas. The main saloon, he said, captures the modern Art Deco vibe perfectly and is the highlight of the interior.
The project was heavily influenced by Jeanette Staluppi, whose input shaped the layout, atmosphere, and day-to-day usability, particularly in entertainment and relaxation areas. John Staluppi revealed that the owners' deck bar area has already become a favourite spot for gathering with guests and engaging in conversation.
Fleet and Legacy
Project Bond continues Staluppi's tradition of naming vessels after James Bond films, including For Your Eyes Only, Octopussy, Moonraker, Casino Royale, Skyfall, and Diamonds Are Forever. With 18 yachts owned in total, this new build may be his definitive and last Bond yacht, according to Simon Graham, sales broker at FGI Yacht Group and the owner's representative.
Graham said that from an emotional standpoint, Staluppi 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. He emphasised that this is about creating lasting memories rather than chasing the next build.
Construction Progress and Future
Berkay Yılmaz, commercial director of Bilgin Yachts, praised the design and build teams, calling the interior design 'absolutely stunning' and noting the perfect balance of elegance, sophistication, and timeless luxury. Staluppi recently visited the shipyard to inspect progress and was particularly impressed by the quality of construction, highlighting 'the way the welding is coming and the fit and finish of the steel and the aluminum'.
When asked what he hoped visitors would experience on board, Staluppi said: 'Great quality, lots of space and the fit and finish of the furniture.' Project Bond is expected to continue his long-standing association with James Bond, becoming the largest and most personalised vessel in his fleet to date.
