If you think only teenagers and nerds can be passionate fans of video games, then think again! When UK-based consulting firm Smart Technology Advisors was hired for the extensive refitting of the 437-foot (133-meter) superyacht Al Mirqab, the owner categorically requested the games room and simulator equipment to be thoroughly modernized. However, you’ll be surprised that the megayacht isn’t owned by a tech billionaire but by the former Prime Minister of Qatar, Hamad bin Jassim bin Jaber Al Thani.
Smart Advisors are the specialists who helped create the world’s first floating IMAX theater for American billionaire Dan Snyder. For this particular project, the company was asked to upgrade the existing setup, which had two simulators, each with Xbox consoles, a static racing seat with triple screen setups, and in-room hardware with visible cables.
The existing gaming setup was functional, but the owner wanted to enhance the setup’s sense of realism. Furthermore, the owner wanted a setup that could function as a racing simulator as well as a flight simulator, with all the equipment being easily available to switch between the two modes seamlessly.
Ditching the old Xbox-based simulators, the folks at Smart Advisors chose a ‘GT car’ setup featuring a fully adjustable seat, hydraulic pedal box, steering wheel, and an optional ‘stick-shift’ module. Additionally, the setup is equipped with three 32” curved displays positioned at the perfect distance and angles. A 5.1 surround speaker system delivers realistic, high-quality audio.
To make the gaming experience as real as possible, the simulator is fitted with FIA-licensed D-BOX G5 actuators on all four corners. The system can replicate every bump on a track and even in-flight turbulence. The setup is also prepped for potential VR headset integration, making it future-proof.
While the room’s dimensions were to remain the same, the UK-based consultants completely altered the layout and cabling. The high-performance PC running the simulator is located on a dedicated, cooled rack outside the room instead of being installed next to the setup. In addition, the simulator uses optical display cables to connect to the triple-screen setup to ensure the required high frame rates for full visual immersion. For the flight simulator mode, the setup features a modular design in which the accessories for car racing can be easily swapped with throttle levers and a side stick for flight simulation.
Al Mirqab – a $300 million floating castle
Launched in 2008 by Peterswerft-Kusch, Al Mirqab is one of the biggest luxury superyachts in the world. Her beautiful exterior was penned by Tim Heywood, while Winch Design was tasked with penning the interior. Powered by five Wärtsilä diesel-electric engines, Al Mirqab can reach a top speed of 18 knots. She has a cruising speed of 14 knots with a range of over 5,000 nautical miles.
As far as the amenities are concerned, the vessel features a massive swimming pool on the lower deck, which can be easily connected to the sea by opening side hatches in the hull. The superyacht underwent a thorough refit in 2014, including installing a new sundeck and a complete interior makeover. In addition to a large gym, a sauna, and a hairdressing salon, the vessel also has a pirate-themed underwater viewing room, making it perfect for families with small kids.
Who is Hamad bin Jassim bin Jaber Al Thani?
Hamad bin Jassim bin Jaber Al Thani, also known informally by his initials HBJ, is a prominent Qatari politician and businessman. He is best known for his role as the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Qatar from 2007 to 2013. He played a significant role in shaping Qatar’s foreign policy and its position on the global stage, particularly in the Middle East. A member of Qatar’s royal family, HBJ is estimated to be worth $1.3 billion. He has been named “the man who bought London” by British tabloids after he bought a series of valuable assets to expand Qatar’s financial holdings in London.
