An iconic Lurssen explorer superyacht Octopus that still holds the title of the largest explorer in the world with her 126.2-metre LOA, ahead of the delivery of the giant 183-metre REV, has been listed for sale jointly through Fraser and Burgess. The news comes 11 months after the yacht’s passionate owner Paul Allen sadly passed away at the age of 65.



Paul Allen was one of the founders of the Microsoft, alongside with Bill Gates. Paul Allen also owned NBA’s Portland Trail Blazers and NFL’s Seattle Seahawks teams, with his fortune estimated at $20,3 billion by Forbes. It is well known that he had a passion for the ocean and adventures, owning a 92-metre Nobiskrug Tatoosh in addition to Octopus.

A renowned world-class cruiser and one of the most well-travelled yachts in the global fleet, Octopus encompasses eight decks and an interior volume of 9,932GT with exteriors by renowned Espen Oeino, along with interiors by Jonathan Quinn Barnett of Seattle.



Unlike the other owners of superyachts who are trying to stand out with non-standard form or a length of their boats, Paul Allen has made a bid for excellence, for example, his yacht was built under the scheme of diesel-electric with 8 diesel generators, who simultaneously work on two electric motors of 6 megawatts, propelling screws. 

Also, Octopus has thrusters that allow her to go into any port or moor without help of tugboats despite the length of 126 metres.

With accommodation for up to 26 guests across 13 cabins, and 63 crew across 30 cabins, Octopus has explored multiple destinations since her delivery in 2003, including the coast of Antarctica, traversed the Northwest Passage and recovered the ship's bell from the wreck of HMS Hood at a depth of 2.8km for the Royal Navy. 


Credit: Jan Sieg

Other notable discoveries include the wrecks of the WWII battleships USS Indianapolis and IJN Musashi off the Philippines and the aircraft carrier USS Lexington in the Coral Sea.

Octopus comes with abundance of features and amenities specially tailored for those looking to explore the globe’s most remote and inaccessible destinations. For instance, the submarine Pagoo can dive with eight guests and two crew for up to eight hours. Octopus also houses two helicopters, seven tenders, two liferafts, an ROV capable of diving to 3km and several jetskis. 

A dive centre and hyperbaric chamber are also on board, along with a beach club with bar on the starboard side.



The superyacht comes equipped with a full owner’s deck including a private bar and Jacuzzi forward and private al fresco dining area aft. While the yacht has two elevators servicing the guest areas onboard, one is dedicated to the owner’s exclusive use.

On the bridge deck below, there is a generous pool aft along with al fresco dining, a bar and pizza oven. Just beneath the bridge deck is a deck dedicated solely to entertainment with a spa, library and bar, cinema, gym, multiple lounges and a basketball court on the deck below. There is also a glass-bottomed observation lounge in the tank deck.

Techno wise, the superyacht features a maximum speed of 19 knots and a transoceanic range of approximately 12,500 nautical miles at 12.5 knots.



Despite her expedition nature, the yacht has been also much favoured by the world’s top-rate celebrities, with Mick Jagger recording an album in on-board studio in 2011 and Usher, U2 and Johnny Cash listed among other performers.

Octopus underwent a significant refit in 2019.

Latest News

A Closer Look at Four Seasons Cruise Ship
Four Seasons has lifted the veil on the maiden voyages of its opulent cruise ship, set to embark on a grand tour of the Caribbean and Mediterranean in early 2026.Spanning an impressive 207 meters, the Four Seasons Yacht promises an unforgettable journey to over 130 unique destinations across 30 countries and territories. The inaugural season will feature ten voyages, inviting travelers to explore the Caribbean's hidden treasures and the Mediterranean's sun-drenched coastlines in unparalleled luxury.Departing from Fincantieri’s shipyard in Italy, the vessel will make its way westward for its debut in the Caribbean from January to March 2026. Travelers can anticipate seven nights of indulgence, visiting renowned yachting hotspots like St. Barths, Nevis, and the Grenadines. From partying in St. Barths to exploring Martinique's volcanic landscapes, each port offers a wealth of unforgettable experiences.Come March 2026, the yacht will set sail for the Mediterranean, showcasing captivating destinations such as Croatia, Santorini, and Montenegro. Guests will immerse themselves in the rich history of Athens, unwind on the pristine beaches of Santorini, and explore the charming streets of Italy.Crafted with flexibility in mind, Four Seasons' itineraries allow guests to tailor their adventures, with customizable pre-and-post hotel options available. Onboard, travelers will be treated to unparalleled luxury, with spacious suites boasting floor-to-ceiling windows, private terraces, and dual bathrooms. The vessel also features 11 dining venues, spa facilities, and a 65-foot stern pool – the epitome of indulgence at sea.“Our teams are dedicated to innovating and delivering genuine service, ensuring each journey is defined by comfort, elegance, and personalization, setting a new standard for luxury hospitality experiences at sea,” remarked Four Seasons president and CEO Alejandro Reynal.Credits: Four Seasons
A New Era in Electric Performance Boating: eD-TEC Unveils Revolutionary eD 32 c-ultra RIB
eD-TEC, the trailblazing developers behind the groundbreaking eD-QDrive 1 high-performance electric drive system, are on the brink of completing their latest innovation: the eD 32 c-ultra RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat). Crafted in collaboration with esteemed German carbon boatbuilder Sven Akermann, this 9.5-meter marvel is poised to redefine the standards of excellence in electric performance boating.The eD 32 c-ultra, a testament to innovation and design, offers unparalleled performance capabilities. Equipped with cruising and performance battery packs, this all-electric RIB can reach speeds of up to 50 knots, with a range extending up to 30 miles. What's more, its fast-charge time of just 40 minutes to reach 80 percent capacity ensures minimal downtime, maximizing time on the water.Designed with versatility in mind, the eD 32 c-ultra is foil-ready, with an optional foil-assist system that not only enhances range but also provides superior seakeeping advantages. Whether serving as a superyacht tender or catering to leisure seekers, this RIB's adaptability makes it suitable for a myriad of operational profiles.The collaboration between eD-TEC and Sven Akermann has resulted in the creation of a performance carbon monohull that embodies excellence in craftsmanship and functionality. The eD 32 c-ultra, based on a proven Akermann design, has been expertly modified to accommodate eD-TEC's state-of-the-art propulsion system, including surface drives and the eD-Technology Stack.Measuring 9.5 meters in length with a 3.2-meter beam and a draft of just 0.84 meters, the eD 32 c-ultra offers the perfect blend of performance and maneuverability. Its sleek design and compact drive system provide ample space for leisure activities, including a large sunpad and easy access to the water from a spacious bathing platform.The eD 32 c-ultra also features a central helm console with a full glass bridge, offering advanced navigation and monitoring capabilities. Extensive customization options, including alternative colors, entertainment systems, and solar panels, allow owners to tailor the RIB to their preferences.Powered by eD-TEC's revolutionary eD-QDrive 1 units, the eD 32 c-ultra delivers an unmatched boating experience. With peak power of up to 400 kW per propeller, combined with silent operation, this RIB sets a new standard for performance electric boating.As the first of its kind, the eD 32 c-ultra represents a significant milestone in the evolution of electric performance boating. With its cutting-edge design and advanced technology, it promises to revolutionize the boating market and usher in a new era of sustainable luxury on the water.Credits: eD-TEC
40m Superyacht Project UNICA Presented by ISA Yachts
ISA Yachts has officially launched the innovative 40-meter project UNICA, setting new benchmarks in the world of luxury yacht design. This semi-displacement, full-aluminum superyacht boasts a draft of just 2.2 meters, showcasing the exceptional craftsmanship and technical prowess of ISA Yachts.Collaborating with the renowned Designer Enrico Gobbi of TEAM for Design and the esteemed technical department of Palumbo Superyachts, the UNICA 40 redefines excellence in its sector. True to its name, UNICA signifies a unique specimen, unparalleled in the international yachting industry.Drawing inspiration from the latest innovations and design trends, the project introduces a host of groundbreaking features and functional solutions. With a focus on maximizing both functional spaces and volume optimization, the UNICA 40 offers generous exterior decks and expansive windows, ensuring breathtaking views and unparalleled connectivity with the surroundings.The exterior design exudes fluidity and harmony, with a seamless interplay of empty and full spaces that accentuate the vessel's natural dynamism. The carefully curated lighting design further enhances the aesthetic appeal, creating a glossy and inviting atmosphere throughout the yacht.At the stern, guests are treated to a luxurious retreat spanning three levels, complete with a sunbathing area, swimming pool, and infinity cockpit offering uninterrupted views of the sea. Meanwhile, the interiors have been meticulously designed to prioritize comfort and functionality, featuring an owner's area with an office, lounge, walk-in wardrobe, and spacious bathroom.The UNICA 40 also boasts two distinct dining areas, a formal setting on the main deck, and a more casual setup on the upper deck cockpit. The expansive bow surface on the upper deck provides additional entertainment space and a sunbathing area, while the fly deck offers an array of amenities, including sunbathing areas, a lounge, dining table, bar, and hot tub.Below deck, four double cabins offer luxurious accommodations for guests, while crew quarters accommodate seven members, including the captain's cabin positioned next to the bridge.Powered by two MTU engines with 1432 kW each, the UNICA 40 achieves a maximum speed of 20 knots and a cruising speed of 15 knots, with a range of 3300 nautical miles at 14.5 knots. Currently in build are two 80-meter projects due to become the new ISA Yachts flagships.Palumbo Superyachts took root in 2008, when the Columbus Yachts brand was established, and in 2011 it launched its first 54m superyacht, emblematically christened Prima (the First). Currently, Palumbo Superyachts comprises a representative office in Monaco and a logistics network of five shipyards in the Mediterranean (Ancona, Malta, Marseille, Naples, and Savona); it also operates the following brands: ISA Yachts, Columbus Yachts, Mondomarine and Palumbo SY Refit.Credits: ISA Yachts
Introducing Aluna 92: FDC Yachts and Red Yacht Design Set Sail with 28m Model Featuring Helipad
FDC Yachts and Red Yacht Design have joined forces once again to unveil their latest creation: the Aluna 92, a groundbreaking 28-meter yacht set to redefine luxury on the seas. Scheduled to commence construction by the end of summer 2024, this collaboration promises to set new standards in yacht design and innovation.At the heart of the Aluna 92 lies its revolutionary touch-and-go helipad, distinguishing it as the first yacht in its class capable of accommodating helicopters. This innovative feature adds an unprecedented level of convenience and luxury to the vessel, setting it apart from its peers.Building upon the success of its predecessor, the Aluna 87, the Aluna 92 represents a bold evolution in design and functionality. With an emphasis on spaciousness and comfort, the yacht offers expanded exterior living areas, including a generous sundeck and an integrated beach club, providing guests with unparalleled opportunities for relaxation and entertainment.Designed to cater to the discerning tastes of elite clientele, the Aluna 92 boasts accommodation for up to eight guests, including a lavish full-beam owner's cabin that can be easily converted into separate cabins using sliding partition walls. This flexibility ensures that every guest enjoys the utmost privacy and comfort throughout their journey.With the introduction of the Aluna 92, FDC Yachts and Red Yacht Design continue to solidify their position as industry leaders in yacht construction and design. FDC Yachts was founded is based in Bodrum, Turkey. The company specialized on refit and rebuild, with the new builds as well. Facility is built on 6.000 sqm land which has a 3.000 sqm production and 3.000 sqm hard stand area.Credits: Red Yacht Design
Image Gallery: Royal Huisman Yachts at St. Barths Bucket 2024
The St. Barths Bucket 2024 regatta has concluded, marking the end of thrilling race days filled with excitement and camaraderie.NilayaFeaturing the largest sailing yachts on the planet, the 2024 edition boasted 35 entries, collectively spanning 1.5 kilometers in length. With 200 full-time crew, 140 industry professionals, and over 1000 aficionados in attendance, the event showcased the pinnacle of sailing excellence and community spirit.NilayaAmong the notable vessels were four Royal Huisman yachts: Nilaya, Aquarius, Hanuman, and Hyperion. Nilaya secured victory in Race 3 and placed third overall in the 'Les Gazelles' class, while Aquarius claimed victory in Race 1 and secured second place overall in the same class. Hanuman and Hyperion also achieved impressive standings in their respective classes.HyperionReflecting on the event, organizers emphasized that in the spirit of the bucket, all participants were winners, highlighting the sense of camaraderie and sportsmanship that defines the St. Barths Bucket Regattas.HanumanRoyal Huisman is a Dutch shipyard established in 1884 in Ronduite, building and refitting custom luxury sailing and motor yachts at its shipyard in Vollenhove, the Netherlands.Credits: all pictures provided by Royal Huisman