Transforming the Bella Vista: A Modern Interior Refit for Sydney Harbour's Iconic Charter Vessel

Innovative Wraps
Nov 22, 2024
4 min read

Updated: Jul 1

At iWraps, we excel in transforming commercial interiors—whether above land or on water. Recently, we undertook a significant upgrade of the Bella Vista, an esteemed charter vessel and event venue that graces Sydney Harbour.

About the Vessel: Bella Vista – Sydney’s Premier Function & Event Vessel

The Bella Vista is a spacious, multi-level charter vessel featuring glass walls that offer stunning views of Sydney Harbour. This breathtaking backdrop makes it an ideal setting for weddings, parties, and corporate events. In fact, the Bella Vista hosts an impressive array of events year-round, accommodating hundreds of guests on a weekly basis.

Given the heavy foot traffic and constant events, the Bella Vista's interior was due for a swift, cost-efficient refresh that would cause minimal disruption to operations. The project required careful planning to balance the needs of both the vessel’s management and its guests.

Find out more at All Occasion Cruise's website here: https://aocruises.com.au/bella-vista/

The Project Scope: Interior Refit with Architectural Vinyl Wrap

The owners aimed to modernize the vessel’s interior without the expense and downtime that comes with a full renovation. They needed a solution that could quickly enhance aesthetic appeal while allowing everyday operations to continue seamlessly.

Areas We Wrapped:

Main Function and Entertainment Room Joinery Panels
Bar Fronts and Surrounds
Music DJ Booth and AV Area Joinery
Bathroom Cabinetry, Doors, and Partitions

By working onsite at the marina, we ensured that the installation took place around the vessel’s busy charter schedule. As a result, the Bella Vista continued to host events during the refit, which is crucial for maintaining a steady stream of income.

Materials Used: LX Hausys BENIF Architectural Film

To achieve a fresh and modern look that stands up to the challenges of life on the water, we selected LX Hausys BENIF Architectural Film. This durable material is particularly well-suited for high-traffic commercial spaces, especially in marine environments.

Why BENIF?

Durable & Impact-Resistant: Ideal for busy event spaces where wear and tear is common. For example, it can endure the daily foot traffic of up to 400 guests.
Moisture & Humidity Resistant: Built for marine conditions, reducing issues related to water exposure.
Quick Installation: Unlike traditional renovations, this refitting process took only days to complete, significantly lessening downtime.
Variety of Finishes: Available in finishes such as elegant wood grains, sleek metallics, and modern matte textures.
Lightweight: This is crucial for the vessel's stability and compliance with safety regulations.

Benefits for Commercial Vessel Operators

The upgrade provided by iWraps comes with numerous advantages for commercial vessel operators who host events in high-traffic settings.

Minimal Downtime

The swift installation helped minimize downtime, ensuring the Bella Vista maintained its charter bookings. This was vital as it allowed for continuous revenue, with many events generating upwards of $10,000 each.

Cost-Effective Alternative to Renovation

Choosing architectural films over a complete renovation enabled the owners to avoid hefty construction costs and extended project timelines. This cost-efficient solution kept the budget in check, allowing for savings of 50% or more when compared to traditional remodeling.

Low Maintenance

In high-traffic areas, low maintenance is crucial. The materials we used are easy to clean and care for, ensuring a consistently appealing interior. This practicality is essential for the crew as they manage the vessel.

The Transformation Process

The Bella Vista’s transformation was a collaborative effort that required meticulous planning.

Initial Consultation

The journey began with discussions with the owners to grasp their vision for the space. This initial consultation aligned expectations and clarified project objectives, making sure everyone had a shared understanding of the goals.

Design Phase

We either work with what the customer already wants, their interior designer has specified, or can suggest and interior designer to come and assist.

Installation Planning

Timing was key for installation. Our project managers coordinated the schedule to align with the Bella Vista's charter commitments, allowing operations to continue smoothly during the refit.

Execution

With plans in place, our skilled team of installers applied the LX Hausys BENIF Architectural Film with precision. Each detail was meticulously executed, ensuring a flawless and enduring finish.

Guest Experience Post-Refit

Feedback from the Bella Vista's guests and operators following the refit has been overwhelmingly positive. The newly transformed interior radiates a modern aesthetic that perfectly complements the spectacular views of Sydney Harbour.

Enhanced Atmosphere

The modern surfaces create a warm and inviting atmosphere right from the moment guests step aboard. The design choices reflect the elegance of the vessel, enriching the overall experience for attendees.

Increased Bookings

Following the upgrade, the Bella Vista experienced a notable surge in bookings. The sleek new interior sparked interest, helping to attract more high-profile corporate events and celebrations. This modernization enabled owners to increase rental prices, reflecting the enhanced value.

Final Thoughts

The interior wrap of the Bella Vista by iWraps showcases the effectiveness of innovative solutions in commercial vessel upgrades. By incorporating high-quality architectural films, we delivered a timely, cost-effective, and sustainable interior transformation.

For vessel operators across Sydney Harbour and beyond, the success of the Bella Vista's project highlights the importance of tailored interior solutions. These upgrades not only boost aesthetic appeal but also maintain operational efficiency. Modernizing spaces with minimal disruption can lead to improved guest experiences and increased revenue.

In a fast-evolving industry, staying ahead is crucial. Projects like the Bella Vista's interior wrap serve as inspiring examples of achieving stylish transformations. The refreshed interior equips the Bella Vista to sail into the future, ready to craft unforgettable memories for everyone aboard.

Have a Commercial Vessel in Need of an Interior Upgrade?

If you operate a charter vessel, event boat, houseboat, or any other commercial marine venue in Sydney or NSW, iWraps offers a fast, affordable, and professional solution with marine-grade architectural vinyl wraps.