Trump's election as president of the United States marked a number of firsts, including the institution of what has historically become the wealthiest cabinet ever in existence in America. The billionaire's effect on politics and policy has become the subject of many international debates, yet his interests in yachting tend to be less talked about but remain no less fascinating when coupled with his administration.
In his former life as a billionaire businessman, Trump not only owned an 86m superyacht as well as a shipyard for a brief period of time, but he also ordered the world's largest yacht, although it was never completed. Meanwhile, US Secretary of Education, Betsy DeVos, with a net worth estimated at $1,5 billion, and her family have been linked to no less than 13 yachts over the years.
In 1980, the late Saudi businessman and arms dealer, Adnan Khashoggi took delivery of the 86 meter (282 ft) Nabila. Built by Benetti in Italy, she became the 8th largest yacht in the world and appeared in the 1983 James Bond movie, Never Say Never Again.
When Khashoggi, however, ran into financial problems, the Sultan of Brunei took possession of the yacht to cover one of his loans. The Sultan quickly flipped the yacht to Donald Trump for a reported $29 million in 1987. In an interview in 1988, Trump said he received a $1 million discount for agreeing to change the name from Nabila, Khashoggi's daughter.
Khashoggi probably spent $200 million building this yacht, probably the best yacht ever built. I purchased it for a business. I use it for my hotels. I use it for a lot of different charities.
After acquiring Nabila, Trump renamed the yacht to Trump Princess and had it refitted by Holland-based, Amels for a near $10 million according to the LA Times. The H on the helipad was also changed to a T to stand for Trump.
Spread into over 100 separate areas over five decks, Nabila was without a doubt one of the most complex yachts of her time. With luxurious materials including onyx used for her interior, the yacht was also ahead of her time from a technological standpoint. Remote controls were installs next to the bed for shades, room service, and the entertainment center.
Amongst the yacht's main feature was a hair salon with 3 separate chairs, a sauna, a private elevator for the owner, one for guests and one for the crew, a 2.4-meter in diameter spa pool with a waterjet behind bulletproof glass. Whilst still owned by Khashoggi, many arms deals were signed onboard the yacht.
In June 1989, Donald Trump announced that he would build a larger yacht, "something in excess of 400 feet long, closer to 500 feet" as he told Newsday and that he was accepting bids from yacht builders for this project. Amels, then owned by a group of 4 British investors, secured the deal to develop the 128-meter Trump Princess II according to NRC.
In May 1990, it was announced that Trump bought Amels altogether. At a press conference in Makkum in 1990, Jeff Walker, VP of Trump's investment empire, denied that the shipyard was sold due to the previous owner's financial difficulties, which some have said, resulted from Trump canceling the construction of the Trump Princess II.
In September 1990, two months after the acquisition, Trump sold Amels to American businessman, Peter Kutell according to Deseret News due to financial problems. At the same time, the Trump Princess was put up for sale and all work on the Trump Princess II stopped. In 1991, Trump Princess was sold to Prince Al-Waleed for $19 million who renamed the yacht to Kingdom 5KR.
The superstructure for Trump Princess II allegedly remained at the Amels Makkum facility until summer 2001 when it was eventually removed. According to sources familiar with the matter, the superstructure is still parked at the Makkum facility, now owned by Feadship De Vries and reportedly sometimes used as a bike parking space.
Although Trump never came back to yacht ownership, other members of his cabinet remained involved in the space to this day. Betsy DeVos, US Secretary of Education, and her husband have a combined net worth valued at $5,1 billion. Amongst their long list of assets are no less than 10 yachts and reportedly an interest in the shipyard that built them.
Delivered in 2008 by US shipyard, Westport, Seaquest measures 50 meters (162 ft) and was designed by Donald Starkey. Reaching a top speed of 24 knots, she is part of the Westport 164 series. Interestingly, she's also not the only Westport 164 linked to the DeVos family as the 50-meter Legacy is also reportedly owned by the family.
Whereas the actual construction price of this particular Westport is unknown, as is typical with the vast majority of new build yachts, a similar 50-meter Westport sold at an asking price of $29,950,000 in November 2016. It is standard for the final, actual price to be 30-40% lower to the asking price in yachting.
Delivered in 2011, Legacy is a slightly updated version of the Seaquest. According to the media, the DeVos family has a solid preference for Westport yachts, having reportedly owned several of them in the past years. In fact, the family may even have acquired a stake in the US yacht manufacturer according to SYF.
Amongst the Westports linked to the DeVos is a Westport 112 from 2003 and a Westport 130 from 2005. Their fleet also includes an 85ft Pacific Mariner ( a brand owned by Westport) called Sun Quest. Additionally, an 80ft Hatteras called Kitsune can also be found in their fleet according to the media.
Although the DeVos fleet may already sound expansive as it is now, the family hasn't always been buying Westports and went through a number of other yacht shipyards as well. One of these superyachts was the 53-meter sailing yacht Independence, delivered by Italian shipyard, Perini Navi in 1998.
The yacht has since been sold, renamed to Jasali II and made available for charter from €138,600 per week. Accommodating up to 10 guests in 5 cabins, she stretches over a beam of 11.4m and can cruise at up to 12 knots.
Prior to their long run with Westport, the DeVos have reportedly owned no less than five Feadships according to SYF, all of which have been named Enterprise. The first to qualify as a superyacht would become Enterprise II, a 116ft Feadship delivered in 1970 now known as Utopia II.
Although from a different era and with different standards, in the 1970s, Utopia II was a true superyacht for its time. Amongst her classical feature are a round aft with an open top deck, partly used to store its tenders. 10 years following her delivery, a new Enterprise was built by Feadship, this time measuring 131ft.
Now known as Seagull of Cayman following changes of ownership, she features several enhancements over the previous Enterprise. The most noticeable of these is a dedicated sundeck, an upper deck skylounge and a larger main salon aft of the main deck. Several weeks ago she was put again on the market at an asking price of €5,900,000.
Yet another improvement on Enterprise III, the 149ft Enterprise IV was also built by Feadship in 1985. Through the Enterprise line can be seen the growth of a niche industry into the superyacht sector it is today. Now known as Explora, the yacht features larger windows, a sleeker line and a swimming platform aft of the yacht, all of which weren't found on classical yachts.
The last Enterprise to be built was delivered by Feadship in 1993 and is today known as Chantal Ma Vie. Measuring 55-meters (179 ft) in length, she already was a good representation of the modern superyacht, featuring a sleek line, large sundeck, expansive lounges, spacious cabins, a swimming platform and purpose-built tenders. In 2010, she was sold at an asking price of $15,9 million to her current owner.
Although their effect on US policy can be polarising and debated throughout the world, the effect that Trump and member of his administration have had on yachting throughout the past decades has undoubtedly played an important role in growing the market to the point where it is today.
Camper & Nicholsons has announced the exclusive listing of the Benetti yacht New Waves for sale. Represented by sales advisor Maël Fiolet, this 42.00m is a Benetti Fast 140 yacht, delivered in 2015 and maintained in pristine condition by a private family. Designed by Stefano Righini, the yacht features a tri-deck configuration, blending quality construction with Italian design.The exterior offers ample space for various activities. The sundeck includes areas for dining, lounging, and a bar. At the aft, a beach club with a large swim platform provides easy water access. Additional exterior spaces include the main deck aft and a forward deck with sunbeds and a hot tub.Inside, the yacht features a bright and elegant interior designed by RWD, with enhancements by Wolterinck in 2017. The layout accommodates 10 guests in five cabins, including a full-beam owner’s cabin on the main deck with a private study and dressing area. The lower deck houses two spacious VIP cabins and two double cabins. The main saloon and upper deck sky lounge offer additional socializing spaces, with the main saloon accommodating dining for up to 10 guests.New Waves underwent a full repaint in 2024 following an extensive refit and has been regularly maintained and upgraded. The yacht complies with MCA LY3 commercial standards and is offered for sale with full EU VAT paid.Currently available for viewings by appointment in Palma, Spain, New Waves asking price EUR 16,500,000, with VAT paid.Credits: Camper & Nicholsons
May 31, 2024
Ferretti Group and Flexjet have entered into a strategic partnership aimed at combined growth in the luxury segment. The agreement was announced at the Venice Boat Show, where Ferretti Group showcased a fleet of 10 models, including the world premieres of the Custom Line Navetta 38 and Pershing GTX 80.The partnership connects the expertise of Ferretti Group in luxury yacht building with Flexjet's leadership in private aviation. This collaboration targets Ultra-High Net Worth Individuals (UHNWIs), offering them exclusive benefits and unique events. Both companies share a commitment to excellence in performance, design, and service.Under this agreement, Ferretti Group clients will have access to Flexjet's global fleet of over 300 private jets and helicopters. This includes the Gulfstream G650, Praetor 600, and Sikorsky S-76 in Europe. Clients will also enjoy access to Flexjet’s private terminals in key locations such as Teterboro, New York; Naples, Florida; and Van Nuys, California.Conversely, Flexjet clients will gain VIP access to global boat shows, private tours of Ferretti Group’s Riva shipyard, and preferential terms on Riva Brand Experience products and accessories. The partnership also promises shared presence at international boat shows and high-profile events, including Ferretti Group’s Private Preview in Monaco and Flexjet’s VIP viewing experience at the Palio di Siena.The collaboration will also see the creation of a Riva-inspired interior for one of Flexjet’s Gulfstream G650 aircraft, reflecting Flexjet’s bespoke LXi Cabin Collection interiors.Alberto Galassi, CEO of Ferretti Group, remarked, "People who love cruising on Ferretti Group yachts expect standards of absolute excellence when they fly too, which is why I’m so pleased to associate our name with Flexjet, a partner that shares our same passion and desire to offer customers an increasingly rewarding experience. Venice is the ideal showcase to celebrate this important agreement."Kenn Ricci, Chairman of Flexjet, added, "This exciting partnership takes the decades-long expertise and luxury brand power from leaders in two complementary sectors, and combines them to present today’s UHNWI audience with a set of exclusive and unique advantages. I have been a huge admirer of Ferretti Group’s philosophy for many years, and we share a deep understanding of what it takes to deliver a truly exceptional luxury experience. I’m excited to see how this significant strategic alliance can lift our offerings to even greater heights of excellence."The Ferretti Group, led by Chief Executive Officer Alberto Galassi, is now one of the world’s leaders in the construction and sale of luxury yachts and pleasure vessels, with a unique portfolio of brands: Ferretti Yachts, Riva, Pershing, Itama, Mochi Craft, CRN, Custom Line and Wally.Credit: Ferretti Group
May 31, 2024
The 70-meter superyacht, Project Thunderball, is now under construction, showcasing a collaboration between three industry leaders: Dutch design studio Vripack, Italian shipyard CRN, and Nauta Design. This custom yacht is designed for efficient and comfortable cruising, with features tailored for long voyages and regatta support.Vripack is responsible for the yacht's elegant exterior and naval architecture. The design includes an optimized hull, elongated bow, and a refined profile with classic elements. The yacht also features a peak shaving system to enhance energy efficiency and reduce fuel consumption. Nauta Design's interiors draw inspiration from the sea, incorporating geometric shapes that complement the exterior.Project Thunderball will be a steel and aluminum yacht with five decks, an 11-meter beam, and accommodation for 12 guests and 15 crew members. The yacht's design includes sharp entry lines and curved bilges, providing both aesthetic appeal and functional efficiency.Marnix Hoekstra, co-creative director of Vripack, commented, “Our focus was on delivering a yacht that guarantees highly economical cruising and a soft and comfortable ride, all of which is made possible by our most efficient hull lines to date and our sailing experience.”The yacht was sold by Y.CO in August 2022, with construction beginning in early 2023. Initial designs were developed as early as 2018. In May 2023, the yacht was transported to the Ferretti Group Superyacht Yard in Ancona, where a full hull 3D scan was performed. The build has now moved into the outfitting stage, which includes carpentry, machinery fitting, and installation of on-board systems and furniture. The exterior hull will also be primed and painted.Project Thunderball is scheduled for delivery in 2026. The yacht will serve not only as a luxury vessel for extended cruises but also as a support vessel for the owner's sailing yacht during regattas.Vripack is a yacht-design studio with a portfolio that represents over 7400 designs, made strong through its extensive naval architecture and engineering experience. From the moment they opened their doors in 1961, Vripack studio’s approach to design has been governed by the playful interaction between form and function.Credits: Vripack
May 31, 2024
IYC has announced a new partnership with Sunreef Yachts, appointing IYC as the Exclusive Commercial Agent for Sunreef Yachts in the United Kingdom. This strategic alliance aims to enhance IYC's offerings in the luxury yachting market and reinforce its commitment to providing exceptional yachting experiences.Raphael Sauleau, CEO of IYC, remarked, "This appointment marks a new chapter for our team in the United Kingdom. Sunreef Yachts is renowned for its superior craftsmanship and commitment to sustainability, and this partnership enhances our portfolio with some of the most forward-thinking and environmentally conscious yachts available today. We look forward to working with the Sunreef Yachts team of professionals."Francis Lapp, CEO and Founder of Sunreef Yachts, stated, "We are thrilled to announce our new exclusive dealership with IYC for the UK market. As we continue to strengthen our presence, it is crucial to have strong and experienced representation in such a significant market. IYC's expertise and dedication align perfectly with our vision for delivering unparalleled luxury and innovation to our discerning clients in the UK."Richard Gray, Head of Sales for IYC in the UK, added, "Our partnership with Sunreef Yachts marks another milestone for IYC's UK operations. Collaborating with one of the world’s foremost shipyards is not just an opportunity; it's a testament to our unwavering commitment to quality. This partnership opens up exciting new possibilities, and we look forward to supporting brokers and cultivating a growing client base of Sunreef Yachts enthusiasts in the UK."The partnership between IYC and Sunreef Yachts represents a significant development in the luxury yachting industry, combining IYC's market expertise with Sunreef's innovative and sustainable yacht designs.Sunreef Yachts was founded by Francis Lapp in 2002 in Gdansk, Poland. Since then, the shipyard has been designing and manufacturing luxury sailing and power multihulls. Credits: Sunreef Yachts
May 31, 2024
VisionF Yachts has announced the development of a new 30.7-meter supercatamaran, currently under construction at their Yalova shipyard. The hulls of this all-aluminium superyacht have already been completed and turned, with the superstructure also finished. The yacht features a GRP (Glass Fibre Reinforced Polyester) roof, a first for VisionF, aimed at reducing the vessel’s weight and enhancing speed.Named VisionF 101 Alu, the supercatamaran boasts nearly 400 square meters of living space, including a 30 square meter owner’s suite and a 140 square meter flybridge. Designed for both performance and comfort, the yacht is equipped with four Volvo Penta IPA1350 engines, producing a combined 4,000 horsepower. This setup allows the yacht to reach speeds over 20 knots, while its broad beam ensures stability and safety.The yacht is tailored for Mediterranean cruising, suitable for long crossings and coastal hops between harbors and anchorages. It includes expansive outdoor living spaces, such as a large cockpit, foredeck lounge, and a hydraulic bathing platform for water activities. The flybridge, covered by an elegant hardtop, offers various configurations for lounging, dining, and a whirlpool spa.Interior details are yet to be fully revealed, but the yacht will accommodate up to 12 guests. The designs for the first unit feature a modern style with neutral tones, emphasizing spaciousness and comfort. The VisionF 101 Alu is scheduled for launch in 2025.VisionF Yachts in Turkey was set up by Coşkun Bayraktar in Istanbul in 2019, but despite the shipyard’s relative youth it is a brand that is going places in the power catamaran world. In November 2020, VisionF Yachts debuted its first vessel, the VisionF 80. Credits: VisionF Yachts
May 30, 2024