In June 2017, YachtHarbour has reported that US Government moves to seize 91.5m Equanimity. In March 2017, 90-metre Equanimity seized as captain turned off 'AIS' system to avoid detection. In April 2018, US were blocked from seizing $250 million 91.5-metre superyacht Equanimity. In May 2018, Jho Low ordered to turn over his $250 million 91-metre yacht Equanimity to the US.
Now, 91.5-metre superyacht Equanimity moved to Malaysia after her detention by Indonesian authorities. The US authorities believe that the funds used to purchase Equanimity were siphoned off from the Malaysian sovereign wealth fund 1MDB between 2009 and 2015. On Monday, Malaysia’s finance minister Lim Guan Eng said the government intends to take an inventory of items on the yacht and open it for public viewing before auctioning it for “the highest price”. The Malaysian government intends to use the sale of the yacht, which is valued at $250 million, to recover some of the funds lost in the scandal.
Equanimity was built by Oceanco in Netherlands at their Alblasserdam shipyard and delivered to her owner in 2014. Equanimity is one of the largest yachts to be completed by the Dutch yard. She has become known for being the first superyacht designed and built to be fully Passenger Yacht Code (PYC) compliant. The yacht's interior has been designed by Andrew Winch. A beautiful combination of wenge wood, bamboo, marble and gold leaf create an Asian-inspired theme throughout Equanimity's interior.
The superyacht features a 20m squared pool on her deck with jets, a private hot tub outside the master suite and a beach club. An indoor-outdoor wellness area is open to all guests and includes a sauna, hammam, plunge pool and beauty salon. Experiential showers are also available on board as well as a helipad on her upper deck.
Equanimity's interior configuration has been designed to comfortably accommodate up to 18 guests overnight in 9 cabins, comprising a master suite, 4 VIP staterooms, and 4 double cabins. She is also capable of carrying up to 28 crew onboard to ensure a relaxed luxury yacht experience.
Propelled by twin MTU 20V 4000 M73L engines, Equanimity is able to reach a top speed in excess of 20 knots. This luxury yacht is also fitted with 'zero speed stabilizers' which work at anchor, increasing on-board comfort when the yacht is stationary, particularly in rough waters.
A spokesperson for Equanimity (Cayman) Ltd, the owners of the yacht, Equanimity, issued the following statement regarding the Malaysian Government’s precipitous taking of the yacht, bypassing judicial proceedings in the US and Indonesia.
"Through recent legal filings we have alerted the U.S. Court that on 2 August 2018, armed officers of the Indonesian National Police (INP) and Malaysian officials commandeered the yacht, reportedly at the behest of Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad. This is troubling because pursuant to an order of the Central District of California, the US Department of Justice (USDOJ) was the custodian of the yacht and paying for its maintenance and crew.
Given the claims put out by the Malaysian Prime Minister in recent days, we issue this statement to set a few facts straight:
As far as we are aware, this seizure by the Malaysian Prime Minister and the Malaysian government was not coordinated with the USDOJ in any way, but instead was done in opposition to the USDOJ, which had repeatedly asked that the Equanimity be handed over for return to US territory and had argued to the US Court that it, and only it, is capable of acting as a proper custodian of the yacht and preserving its value. The U.S. Court had accepted this argument by granting the USDOJ custody of the yacht.
Moreover, an Indonesian court ruled on 17 April 2018 that the yacht should be returned to Equanimity (Cayman) Ltd. – its rightful owners – not handed over to anyone else. Following this ruling the INP acknowledged that “as a legal responsibility... the Indonesian National Police shall obey the order of the South Jakarta District Court to immediately return the Equanimity to its owner,” and that “pursuant to the facts disclosed in the court hearings, it can be concluded that the legal owner of the Equanimity... is Equanimity (Cayman) Ltd. and there is no relations between the Equanimity Yacht with the 1Malaysian Development Berhad.”
The Malaysian government ignored all this and took the asset in direct violation of an existing Indonesian court decision and an order of the US court. This is apparently why more than a dozen armed Indonesian police and Malaysian officials boarded the yacht last week without prior notice and forced it to sail to Malaysia. Presumably, had they been cooperating with the US DOJ or intending to abide by either of the court orders in effect, this would not have been necessary.
Major news sources have reported that the Malaysian Prime Minister intervened personally with the Indonesian President through a phone call and/or in person, thereby injecting politics into ongoing legal proceedings in two sovereign nations.
Although the Indonesian and U.S. court proceedings had led to conflicting decisions regarding the status of the yacht, both proceedings at least had been open and transparent, with Equanimity (Cayman) Ltd. being given a fair opportunity to present its positions and arguments. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for whatever actions were undertaken by the Government of Malaysia to seize the yacht. "
Pearl Yachts will debut its new Pearl 63 model in the UK at two May events: the South Coast & Green Tech Boat Show (May 9–11, Southampton) and the British Motor Yacht Show (May 15–18, Swanwick Marina). This follows the yacht's global premiere at the 2025 Palma International Boat Show.The Pearl 63 builds on the award-winning Pearl 62 design, offering a 60-foot yacht with family-friendly features. Key specifications include:Aft Cockpit: Opening side balconies and convertible L-shaped sofa seatingSaloon: Family-sized dining table and multifunctional chaise longueFlexible Space: Tender garage (fits Williams MiniJet 280 or SeaDoo Spark) or optional crew cabinAccommodation: Four cabins for eight guests, including a full-beam master suite with private access and panoramic windowsInteriors: Four design themes by Kelly Hoppen InteriorsPerformance: Optional 2 x Volvo Penta IPS 1350 engines for speeds up to 33 knotsIain Smallridge, Managing Director of Pearl Yachts, stated: “We are delighted to bring the Pearl 63 to British shores for the first time, and to do so at two events that represent the heart of UK yachting. These shows may be more intimate than their international counterparts, but they are no less important.”The Pearl 63 targets owner-operators seeking a balance of luxury and practicality. Both UK events provide opportunities for direct client engagement ahead of the model’s 2025 delivery schedule.Pearl Yachts was founded in 1998 and has now become one of the UK’s most prominent shipyards. Every Pearl motor yacht is designed and built by experienced craftsmen. Pearl’s fleet consists of the new Pearl 62, the Pearl 80 and the Pearl 95. All newly launched Pearl Yachts are covered by a unique, comprehensive five-year warranty program.Credits: Pearl Yachts
May 5, 2025
Winch Design has revealed the interior of the ninth hull in the Amels 60 Limited Editions series, developed in collaboration with Dutch shipyard Amels. Launched in 2019, the Amels 60 offers semi-custom construction with full-custom flexibility, balancing reduced delivery times and personalized design. The exterior was designed by Espen Øino.Winch Design previously handled interiors for Come Together, hull three and hull six 21.12. Come Together received a World Superyacht Award and an ISS Award in 2023.The ninth hull’s interior draws inspiration from the Pacific Islands, with each deck reflecting different natural elements. Materials include wood, stone, plaster, and leather, complemented by marble accents. Carved wood flooring in the beach club reinforces a barefoot-living concept, while curved forms and a soft palette promote relaxed sophistication.The lower deck features warm, earthy tones reminiscent of sand and forests, while the main deck incorporates oceanic blues. A central staircase, inspired by Pacific rainforests, connects the decks and leads to a bridge deck designed to evoke tropical greenery.“We created a refreshing interior derived from the Pacific Islands, with a focus on vegetation, the ocean and the sky,” said Jim Dixon, Managing Partner & Creative Director at Winch Design. “We started with a neutral and natural canvas and created unique features such as a back-lit onyx wall with an internally illuminated sculptural staircase column.”Hull 6009 remains under construction, with delivery scheduled for 2026. The yacht is currently available for purchase, allowing the new owner to finalize select details.Damen Yachting, a division within the Damen Shipyards Group, was created in 2019. The division combines the pedigree and heritage of Amels yachts with a growing portfolio of SeaXplorer yachts and Yacht Support vessels.Credits: Damen Yachting
May 5, 2025
Outfitting activities are progressing on the 50-meter Admiral Panorama, a Lloyd’s Register-classified yacht developed by The Italian Sea Group. The vessel features clean lines and balanced proportions, combining contemporary aesthetics with functionality. The exterior design was handled by Piredda & Partners, while interiors were developed by the shipyard’s Centro Stile.The yacht spans three decks, emphasizing openness to the exterior through a design that minimizes visual barriers. Large volumes, high ceilings, and panoramic windows enhance the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. Natural materials, refined finishes, and strategic lighting contribute to the interior ambiance.Accommodation includes up to seven cabins, configurable to host 12 guests during navigation and up to 18 people, including crew. The main deck houses four guest suites with direct access to the salon and beach area, which includes a 2.85 x 1.8-meter pool surrounded by sunbathing spaces. The forward cabins can be merged into a full-beam suite, serving as an optional second owner’s cabin. The primary owner’s suite, located on the upper deck, features panoramic views and a private terrace with a pool.Salons on the main and upper decks are designed as multifunctional spaces, while the lower deck is dedicated to crew quarters, including cabins for 10 members, a kitchen, and a dining area. Optional layouts allow for additional cabins, a gym, or an entertainment space.A key innovation is the midship engine room ventilation system, a first for a 499 GT yacht, eliminating traditional aft ventilation trunks and improving layout efficiency. Another notable feature is the technical corridor with observation windows for monitoring machinery.The wheelhouse and captain’s cabin are positioned on the sun deck, enhancing navigation visibility while separating operational and leisure areas for greater guest privacy. The yacht is currently under construction, with further updates expected as outfitting continues.The Italian Sea Group is a global operator in the luxury yachting industry, listed on Euronext Milan (“EXM”) and active in the construction and refit of motor yachts and sailing yachts up to 140 meters. The Company, led by Italian entrepreneur Giovanni Costantino, operates on the market with the brands Admiral, renown for elegant and prestigious yachts, Tecnomar, Perini Navi, and Picchiotti; the Company has a business unit, NCA Refit, that manages the maintenance and refit services for yachts and mega yachts with a length over 60 meters. Credit: The Italian Sea Group
May 5, 2025
Heesen Yachts celebrates the delivery of Solemates (YN 20655), a fully customized 55-meter steel superyacht, to an experienced owner who has chosen the Dutch shipyard for the second time. This milestone underscores Heesen’s reputation for engineering excellence, build quality, and the flexibility of its speculative build program – enabling clients to personalize proven platforms without compromising on time efficiency.Built on Heesen’s successful 55m Steel design, Solemates combines the proven Fast Displacement Hull Form (FDHF) by Van Oossanen Naval Architects with Omega Architects’ sleek exterior lines. The owner, a seasoned yachtsman, leveraged the platform’s inherent reliability to focus on tailored interior enhancements that reflect a family-oriented approach to cruising.Rupert Connor of Luxury Yacht Group noted: "While the changes from the previous model appear subtle, the cumulative refinements across the entire platform elevate this yacht significantly. Heesen’s commitment to continuous improvement shines through."The owner’s deep yachting expertise and hands-on involvement ensured a streamlined build process. Ralf Oortman, Heesen’s Project Manager, remarked: "Their team’s insight into the client’s lifestyle was invaluable. We collaborated seamlessly to introduce standout features, such as the breathtaking atrium – a true masterpiece that sets Solemates apart."Working alongside Silvia Margutti of Luca Dini Design and Architecture, the owner reimagined the interior with vibrant accents, a redesigned main staircase featuring gold-flaked acrylic panels, and an expanded sundeck hot tub area for social gatherings. Every detail was meticulously crafted to enhance onboard living.Following flawless sea trials in the North Sea, Solemates confirms her robust performance and efficiency. With a 760 GT volume, she offers ample space for extended cruising while maintaining the comfort and reliability expected of a Northern European build.Solemates will be available for exclusive charter through Luxury Yacht Group, with her world premiere set for the 2025 Monaco Yacht Show, where she will headline Heesen’s display.Niels Vaessen, Heesen’s CEO, reflected: "Delivering Solemates to a repeat client is a testament to our craftsmanship and the trust owners place in us. This project exemplifies how we blend efficiency with bespoke luxury – creating yachts that exceed expectations."Heesen Yachts is a Dutch ship building company that specializes in custom-built superyachts in aluminum and steel from 30m to 70m in size. Founded in 1978, it has launched more than 170 yachts since its inception.Credits: Heesen Yachts
May 1, 2025
Damen Yachting has successfully launched the first Amels 80. The vessel is the latest addition to the Amels Limited Editions range.The 80-meter superyacht boasts a gross tonnage of 2,175 GT and features a hybrid propulsion system for reduced emissions and improved cruising efficiency. The vessel can accommodate 14 guests across 7 luxurious suites, supported by a crew of 21. Notable features include a foredeck helipad, a 200-square-meter Sun Deck, a private Owner’s Deck, a 6.5-meter swimming pool, and a Beach Club with spa facilities.The exterior design is the work of renowned superyacht designer Espen Oino, while the interior was created by Sinot Yacht Architecture & Design in their first collaboration with Amels. Paul Costerus, Designer Interior at Sinot, commented: “The Amels 80 marks the first collaboration between Sinot and Amels. A project which provided us with the opportunity to develop something truly unique. You will feel at home from the moment you step on board.”The build of the first Amels 80 was managed by Burgess on behalf of the Owner following the yacht’s sale in 2022. Sean Bianchi, Partner and Head of Burgess Technical Services, stated: “We are delighted to see Amels 80, hull number 01 depart her construction dock and enter the commissioning and sea trials phase. This milestone marks the culmination of close collaboration between Damen Yachting, Sinot, and the Owner’s team in crafting a yacht that is truly one of a kind.”Adriaan Roose, Product Design Manager for the Amels 80 series at Damen Yachting, emphasized the balance between customisation and efficiency: “The Amels 80 offered the client many custom options whilst still benefitting from the shortened delivery time. This yacht is the ultimate balance of individuality and efficiency.”The Amels 80 has the following specifications: length overall is 80.00 meters (261 ft), beam overall is 12.50 meters (41 ft), range is 5,000 nautical miles at 12 knots, with delivery scheduled for Summer 2025.Rose Damen, Managing Director of Damen Yachting, expressed gratitude for the collaboration: “With today’s launch of the first Amels 80, we have reached another landmark achievement in the history of Amels. I would like to thank our Client and the team at Burgess for entrusting us with this very special build. We are honoured and excited to see the final phase through to delivery.”Damen Yachting is the yachting division of the Damen Shipyards Group. The shipyard builds and refits Amels superyachts, Xplorer luxury expedition yachts (previously known as SeaXplorer) and Yacht Support vessels. Credits: Damen Yachting
April 30, 2025