Image source: Holland America
On April 24, 2025, the Port of Barcelona became the epicenter of an unprecedented audiovisual technical production. Two Holland America Line ships — the Volendam and the Zuiderdam — hosted a synchronized spectacle combining a drone show with a large-scale sound deployment.
The challenge involved coordinating the audiovisual production of two vessels docked back-to-back, featuring onboard DJs, immersive sound, inter-crew communication, and precise synchronization with remotely operated drones. All operations were managed from a FOH setup across the road, delivered by Novelty Spain, a trusted provider of audiovisual production services.
Image source: Holland America
Project Snapshot:
Client: Holland America Line
Location: Port of Barcelona
Date: April 24, 2025
Ships: MS Volendam and MS Zuiderdam
Audiovisual Technical Production: sound
Show: drone show sincronised to music
Positioned off the dock, close to the road, this zone served as the audio origin point for the drone show. Novelty set up a rack with Rio16 and Gigacore, streaming and distributing audio to all designated zones. The FOH was connected via Quad MTP fiber optics.
Located on the dock, this control zone used a Yamaha QL1, two PSM1000 transmitters, and RF backup systems. A 300-meter fiber optic network connected both ships. For projects of this scale, access to top-tier equipment is essential—explore our AV equipment rental service.
Each ship was equipped with:
Yamaha QL1 for local audio control
Live audio from the drone show (Main + Backup)
Local DJs on deck to provide entertainment in between shows.
2 UR wireless microphones for onboard announcements
L-Acoustics X8, SYVA speakers, and SYVA LOW subwoofers
Column PA Systems for sound reinforcement on upper decks
In this logistically complex environment, Novelty deployed a dual system:
Optical fibre as the main route
RF systems as emergency backup using directional PSM1000 antennas and PA805 SWB transmitters
This redundancy ensured uninterrupted technical production.
To maintain seamless coordination among shore, ship, and drone crews, Novelty installed a Clearcom FreeSpeak II wireless intercom system with:
18 beltpacks
4 active antennas
20 headsets
1 Arcadia base with up to 64 connections
The installation was executed in two phases:
April 23 (evening): rehearsal and technical test with no ships docked
April 24 (morning): onboard setup after Volendam (08:00) and Zuiderdam (10:00) arrivals
Such executions demand precise, efficient logistics. Holland America’s technicians operated the consoles during the show, supported by Novelty’s team for configuration and contingency.
This event exemplifies how audiovisual solutions for events can adapt to even the most challenging scenarios. Thanks to Novelty’s experience and innovation-driven mindset, their technical production achieved new benchmarks in unconventional environments like maritime settings.
At Novelty Spain, we turn ambitious ideas into memorable audiovisual experiences. If you're looking for a partner for your next audiovisual technical production, get in touch and request a custom proposal. Download our technical production guide to get inspired and start planning.