Basrah Breeze was built in 1981 by Danish shipyard Helsingor Vaerft for then president of Iraq Saddam Hussein and was launched as Qadissiyat Saddam (the name is a reference to a 7th century battle in which Arabs triumphed over Persia). The yacht's current captain - Hussein Ghazi Khalifa said the cost of yacht at that time was $25 million, but now it would cost approximately $100 million to build such a superyacht.
Saddam Hussein’s 82-metre superyacht Basrah Breeze was recently used by Iraqi marine researchers from the University of Basrah’s Marine Science Center to explore the changing Persian Gulf. The Basrah Breeze came to Basra in 2010 with the government ownership, but she was rarely used since then. In the year 2014 professors at the university asked the government to allow them to use the yacht as part of their research fleet.
The Basrah Breeze was fitted with marble-tiled bathrooms, numerous guest cabins and a large presidential suite. The superyacht’s indulgent interior then has been modified to accommodate Iraqi scientists but much of the original decor still remains. Saddam Hussein was never able to enjoy the yacht because of the war with Iran and she was left moored in Oman for many years. In the middle 1980's Hussein gave her as a gift to King Fahd bin Abdulaziz of Saudi Arabia. The yacht then changed hands several more times before ending up under the ownership of a Cayman Islands company. Following the execution of Saddam Hussein the Cayman Islands company tried to sell the yacht in 2007, but documents were discovered that legally confirmed it to still be an Iraqi vessel. Following a difficult legal battle the Iraqi government was able to claim ownership.
The king size bed in Saddam Hussein's superyacht is made, the silk curtains around it have been drawn back and, in the gold-rimmed bathroom next door, a barber's chair awaits its occupant. But then Iraqi president never boarded the 82-metre "Basrah Breeze" built for him and now its amenities will be enjoyed by the pilots who guide shipping in and out of the port of Basra, the main southern city.
Equipped with a presidential suite comprising Saddam's private quarters, dining rooms and bedrooms, as well as 17 smaller guest rooms, 18 cabins for crew and a clinic, the opulently equipped and decorated vessel was put on the market for $30 million. The government failed to find a buyer, and for the past two years the Basrah Breeze has served Basra University, hosting researchers on trips to study marine life. "The presidential yacht is in a very good condition. Its two engines and generators are functioning," said Abdul-Zahra Abdul-Mahdi Saleh, its captain. "It only needs periodic maintenance."
But authorities have now decided to moor it permanently as a hotel and recreation facility for the southern port's pilots, many of whom live in distant cities. "The port needs the boat to be a station where sea pilots can rest," said Basra port spokesman Anmar al-Safi.
While the Basrah Breeze survived the turmoil of Saddam's decline and demise, its sister ship "al-Mansur" - which he also never boarded - suffered a different fate, sinking in the Shatt al-Arab waterway that passes through Basra after it was hit by U.S. planes and then stripped bare in the chaotic aftermath of his overthrow. As regards Basrah Breeze, Basra museum has not given up hope of persuading the port to allow it to dock the vessel next to its exhibition halls in one of Saddam's former palaces overlooking the Shatt al-Arab.
Check our Timeline platform to get the full access to our analytics platform, that offers you a detailed report on the timeline of each superyacht, real time market view to see the yacht market developing and much more!
Acquera, a company specializing in personalized services for mega yachts, is set to make a significant impact at the 2024 Monaco Yacht Show with the unveiling of its new brand image. The event, taking place from September 25th to 28th, marks the beginning of the 2024-2025 nautical season and will serve as the platform for Acquera's rebranding debut.Founded in 2018 by Stefano Tositti, Acquera has undergone a comprehensive rebranding process over several months, resulting in a refreshed and more visually striking corporate identity. This new brand image aims to unify the various companies within the Acquera group under a strong, recognizable brand that reflects the company's innovative spirit and future-focused vision.Acquera will welcome customers in a prominent location at the Monaco Yacht Show, situated within The Lounge @ MK Club. The stand, described as the largest and most refined ever for the company, will be shared with four other notable brands in the sector: The Super Yacht Group, MedAire, Dsnm, and Wilson Halligan Recruiter. This collaborative project is designed to foster connections and create synergies that will elevate industry standards.Caterina Oliviero, Chief Commercial Officer of Acquera, emphasized the significance of the Monaco Yacht Show as the ideal venue for presenting the company's new image. "We are particularly proud to do so in this exclusive Lounge, in collaboration with four companies with which we share the same desire to enhance the sector to a higher level," said Oliviero. She also highlighted the event's potential for generating new ideas and expanding Acquera's customer base.The rebranding effort focuses on making the company's iconography more visually impactful, with new color codes that enhance readability and a greater emphasis on images over text. The goal is to communicate Acquera's new positioning in the market, showcasing its commitment to innovation and the development of the yachting industry.Acquera's presence at the Monaco Yacht Show underscores its commitment to forming strategic partnerships and offering comprehensive services to all industry stakeholders, including yacht owners, captains, and other professionals. The company will be located at The Lounge, MK Club, 18 Rte de la Piscine, 98000 Monaco, from September 25th to 28th.Credit: Acquera
September 6, 2024
The Italian Sea Group has recently launched the ADM 67m, a 67-meter superyacht from the Admiral fleet. The yacht, a product of collaboration between The Italian Sea Group’s CENTRO STILE and British designer Mark Berryman, is set to make its world premiere at the Monaco Yacht Show from September 25 to 28, 2024.The ADM 67m features a design characterized by bold, sculptural lines combined with refined details. The yacht’s exterior and interior layout were crafted by CENTRO STILE, while the interior design was developed by Berryman and executed by CELI 1920, The Italian Sea Group’s cabinet-making division. According to Giovanni Costantino, Founder and CEO of The Italian Sea Group, the yacht’s aesthetic reflects a balance of harmony and audacity, consistent with the Admiral fleet’s design philosophy.The ADM 67m’s design concept is built around a new relationship between internal and external spaces, with large, floor-to-ceiling glass walls that create versatile hybrid zones. These spaces can adapt to various guest needs, time of day, and weather conditions, offering a unique at-sea experience. The yacht also features fold-down balconies and large hatches that enhance usable space, providing dedicated areas for outdoor activities and relaxation.The yacht’s interiors are described as luxurious yet understated, with a calming color palette that includes warm whites, sand, beige, and natural tones. The design maintains a contemporary and sophisticated style without excess, aiming to create a serene and informal atmosphere on board.The ADM 67m is the latest addition to The Italian Sea Group’s Admiral fleet and is expected to draw significant attention at the upcoming Monaco Yacht Show.Credit: The Italian Sea Group
September 6, 2024
Maxim Yachts, a new entrant in the nautical industry, is making its first public appearance at the Genoa Boat Show from September 19 to 24. The Barcelona-based shipyard, which specializes in the production of 36 to 56-foot day cruisers, is introducing two new models: the Neo 43 Race and Neo 43 Comfort. These models are part of a five-yacht range that reflects the company's focus on high performance and innovative design.Maxim Yachts, established in 1971, has positioned itself as a leader in the luxury day cruiser segment. The company's production facility in Barcelona spans 6,000 square meters and employs 30 engineers and technicians. The shipyard, with an annual capacity of 12 to 24 units, prides itself on advanced technology, sustainable production practices, and a commitment to customization.The Neo 43 Race and Neo 43 Comfort are both designed to meet the demands of discerning yacht enthusiasts. The Neo 43 Race is built for speed and maneuverability, powered by two outboard engines that enable a top speed of 45 knots and a cruising speed of 30 knots. The yacht features two double cabins, with one cabin convertible into a relaxation area. The interior is contemporary, with optional televisions in both cabins. The yacht also includes a 1,250-liter fuel tank and a 300-liter water tank, providing significant range.The Neo 43 Comfort, on the other hand, is tailored for long-term cruising with a focus on luxury and space. This model includes two double cabins and two inboard engines, achieving a top speed of 42 knots and a cruising speed of 25 knots. Like the Race model, it is equipped with a 1,250-liter fuel tank and a 300-liter water tank. The interior is finished with high-quality materials, offering a refined environment for extended stays on board.Maxim Yachts’ CEO highlighted the company’s dedication to personalization and quality, emphasizing that limited production ensures attention to detail in every yacht. The introduction of the Neo 43 Race and Neo 43 Comfort models marks a significant milestone for the company as it enters the competitive luxury yacht market.Credit: Maxim Yachts
September 6, 2024
Denison Yachting has announced the sale of a new construction 80' YYachts Y8, with the transaction managed by Denison broker Claudio Cozzi on behalf of the buyer. The Y8, an advanced iteration of the first YYacht model, was developed in collaboration with Surge Projects, led by designer Javier Jaudenes.The full-carbon Y8 has been designed with performance and safety in mind, featuring a wider stern and a mast positioned further aft to enhance speed and stability. Among its standard features are a transverse garage, a self-tacking jib, and separate crew access, all aimed at improving the yacht’s functionality and ease of use. The flat deckhouse, with optimally placed windows, contributes to the yacht’s sleek profile and increased interior light.The Y8 offers a 20% increase in interior volume compared to previous models, with a flexible layout that can accommodate up to five guest cabins. The master suite location is customizable to meet the owner's preferences. The yacht's engine room, positioned under the saloon floor, contributes to the improved balance and space efficiency.Ease of handling is a key feature of the Y8, with concealed halyards and sheets allowing the yacht to be operated by a small crew. The CZone system, which underpins the yacht's electronics, enables remote troubleshooting. Built using lightweight and sustainable materials, the Y8 is designed for low-emission sailing, particularly in light wind conditions.The Y8 is set for delivery in May 2025, with plans for the new owner to sail her in the Mediterranean during the summer.Credit: Denison Yachting
September 5, 2024
The 28.93-meter Sanlorenzo motor yacht, Speranza II, has been listed for sale by Camper & Nicholsons, represented by Julien Solari. The semi-displacement yacht is being offered with VAT paid and is presented in excellent condition.Speranza II is a prime example of the SD96 model, known for its balance of performance and luxury. Designed by Zuccon International Project, the yacht features modern exterior lines and spacious outdoor areas, including a bridge deck with versatile seating and dining options. The upper deck's indoor/outdoor dining area, with folding doors and windows, is particularly noteworthy, allowing for flexible use of space.Inside, the yacht accommodates up to 11 guests across five en suite cabins, including a full-beam master suite on the main deck. The interior, also designed by Zuccon International Project, is characterized by a calming cream and beige color scheme, honey-toned marble, and subtle golden accents, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.Speranza II is equipped with zero-speed and underway CMC stabilizers, ensuring comfort for guests both at anchor and while cruising. Powered by MTU engines, the yacht has a top speed of 18 knots and a cruising speed of 14 knots, with a range of over 1,800 nautical miles at 10 knots.With its combination of comfort, performance, and flexible layout, Speranza II is well-suited for both private family use and charter opportunities. The yacht has been meticulously maintained, making it an attractive option for those in the market for a modern, spacious vessel.Credit: Camper & Nicholsons International
September 5, 2024