Built in 2016, the 107-meter Ulysses has become the clearest yet definition of an explorer yacht, incorporating swimming pools, spas with a helipad and a myriad of tenders, the largest of which is 22-meters long.
Sold in 2017 by her original owner, Graeme Hart, she became the largest brokerage yacht sold in 2017 with an asking price of $195 million. The deal lead to widespread rumours that Facebook's founder, Mark Zuckerberg had bought the yacht, a rumour that has since been debunked by Facebook and its CEO.
Ulysses' story starts back in 2013 when Graeme Hart, whose net worth is valued at $10.2 billion by Forbes, commissioned the 107-meter yacht (351 ft) from Kleven, a shipyard in Norway that builds commercial ships. According to designers, Hart's choice was driven by quicker delivery times, a better price point than traditional yacht builders and high enough quality standards.
I am very pleased with the quality of the work that has been done by Kleven, and how our organizations have worked together to bring this exciting project to life.
Graeme Hart in November 2014
Hart's statement was however more than just a PR gesture for the Norwegian shipyard. Shortly after his statement on Kleven's quality, Hart signed an order for a new 116-meter explorer yacht with delivery scheduled for 2018. A move that surprised the industry as the first Ulysses was still two years away from completion but made the yacht one of the most anticipated builds of the past year.
In building Ulysses, Hart already had a clear vision of the yacht he wanted to create, having already owned a 60-meter explorer yacht built by Trinity in 2004. The key points of his design brief in creating the 107-meter Behemoth were reportedly to focus on interior volume, aft-facing guest spaces, a fully-functional helipad and large tenders. Ahead of Ulysses' delivery, the billionaire also sold the 60-meter, which is now known as Grand Russalina. The 116-meter explorer currently in build will become Hart's seventh yacht in total.
One of the most astonishing amenities on Ulysses is her large swimming pool, located aft of the upper deck at a height of nearly 9 meters above sea level. Partly covered by the third deck for shade, the swimming pool stretches for 12 meters and is surrounded by lounging areas for her guests to bathe in the sun.
Aft of this 400 square-meter pool deck is an extensive Jacuzzi, surrounded by sun pads, that overlook the yacht's aft. Although an undeniable advantage of being on a yacht is the ability to swim in the sea, Ulysses is purpose built to be able to navigate in remote areas where the sea could be too rough for humans to bathe in, which is when the 100% jellyfish-proof pool deck comes in.
Near the swimming pool is also located a large dinning table, covered by a solid rooftop and ideal for informal lunches during the summer. The table is however in no way the only option on the 107-meter. In addition to many casual tables located all around the yacht's 6 decks, a formal dinning area is located aft of the main deck with direct access to the kitchen for improved service.
Directly opposite from the formal dinning area can be found a wine degustation area with circular walls filled with the most prestigious wines from all around the world. A small bar is also located in front of 4 large windows directly in this area to allow Ulysses' guests to enjoy a glass of wine whilst taking in the view.
Ulysses' hull and superstructure were built by Kleven in Norway with a clear purpose of having a boat that would have no limits in any respect. The expedition style created by New Zealand-based designer Kyle Dick for the yacht's exterior is a clear translation of this philosophy.
The interior outfitting, penned by London-based studio H2 Yacht Design, was on the other hand done in Germany by Finnish company, Europlan who had in the past mostly focused on cruise ships with only a few superyachts under its belt. According to several reports, the interior cost €20,000 per square meter.
Ulysses features a variety of spaces to entertain its guests, from informal to formal locations. With light colors found throughout its interior, Ulysses boasts a large salon on the main deck with extensive sitting spaces and a large bar.
Unlike smaller yachts where most cabins typically look out onto the sea from a porthole, guest cabins on Ulysses have floor-to-ceiling windows directly opposite of the bed that let its guests take in the full view. Ulysses can accommodate a total of 36 guests.
The largest cabin on board is however the master cabin, which takes up an entire deck and stretches across the 107-meter's entire beam. With panoramic windows on both sides of the cabin, the master was however designed to face the yacht's aft. A lounging area is located forward of the cabin, making up the owner's private deck.
Despite its go-anywhere capability, Ulysses has also all of the amenities one could expand from a superyacht and perhaps even more. One of those is the yacht's spa, which includes a plunge pool, sauna, steam room, massage room and more all designed with white and dark blue theme.
The wellness area is completed by a gym located aft of the main deck with a large variety of equipment and a breathtaking view out of a series of tall windows.
Another one of Ulysses' highlights is her fully-functional cinema room. Packed with comfortable sofas and equipped with a pro-level projector and screen, the room is fully optimized for a great sound and viewing experience.
Ulysses' technical capabilities however perhaps best set in to guests when they go up to the guest lounge, located inside the explorer's bridge on the top deck. This acts as a dedicated area for guests to take in the view without being bother by crew operations and vice-versa.
One of the key requirements set forth by Hart was the development of a fully-functional helipad. This took the form of a large, dedicated helicopter landing pad located at the top of the yacht, with the capacity of taking up the world's largest helicopters up to 3,6 tons.
One of the key aspects of the explorer is of course her gigantic toy garage, containing anything from jetskis to motorbikes to SUVs to seabobs, bikes and flyboards. It's not unseen for superyachts to carry a lot of toys but this amount of toys on a 107-meter is something that few have ever seen before.
The most unique feature amongst the whole boat may however be the 21-meter tender that Ulysses carries on its bow. The two-deck boat, which most would call a yacht in her own right, requires to custom built cranes to lift in an operation that takes just over an hour to execute.
Sold at an asking price of $195 million, Ulysses became the largest brokerage yacht sold so far this year, topping the 85-meter Solandge, which sold at an asking price of €155 million. An even larger version of Ulysses is however set to be delivered to Hart later this year with the 116-meter explorer already now in the final phases of construction.
Valued at $10,2 billion by Forbes, Graeme Hart is currently the wealthiest man in New Zealand. Having made his fortune in the leveraged buyout private equity space, Hart consolidated a number of under-performing assets in the packaging space to create an empire in everyday products such as milk cartons, water bottles, paper and foil.
Prior to his successes in acquiring large companies and optimising them as part of his empire, Hart started off as a tow-truck driver after leaving school at 16 years old. He completed an MBA from the University of Ortego in 1987. His first big buy was the Government Printing Office in New Zealand, which he managed to acquire for less than capital value.
Although it is yet unclear who has acquired Ulysses from Hart, rumours within the yachting sector of a buyer from the US tech scene has led to media firing off guesses in all directions, without any concrete evidence. The most high profile of these guesses became Facebook's founder and CEO, Mark Zuckerberg, which emanated from a Turkish newspaper that since deleted that article. "The reports related to Mark purchasing a yacht are completely inaccurate as he did not purchase a yacht." a spokesman for Facebook rapidly debunked.
Whilst it is yet unclear who purchased the 107-meter explorer, its sheer scale can't be denied. In November 2017, her new owner decided to cruise the yacht to Molokai in Hawai but wasn't able to anchor there. Indeed local militants initiated a protest to prevent the yacht from anchoring there to protect their island due to its large size, with Ulysses eventually cruising away on its own will. At the time, the yacht's owner was presumed by media to be Russian billionaire investor, Yuri Milner. "Yuri Milner does not own the boat Ulysses" a spokeswoman for the investor was, however, quick to debunk.
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The 32nd edition of the Monaco Yacht Show has returned with an impressive lineup of yachts. As the largest yachting show in Europe and a pinnacle event in the superyacht realm, this year's show focuses on promoting environmental innovations and educational trends within the industry. Monaco Yacht Show 2022With designated hubs for design, innovation, sustainability, and adventure, the show offers a comprehensive experience. The spotlight shines on the 120 superyachts gracing Port Hercules, drawing yacht owners, charterers, buyers, and enthusiasts worldwide. Valued at around USD 4.3 billion, these yachts represent iconic brands and create a networking and exploration hub. Alongside, the luxury 'Car Deck,' showcasing classic and custom vehicles, helicopters, personal submarines, and more, turns this event into a billionaire's paradise, offering a splendid end-of-summer celebration.Here are the 15 yachts that can’t be missed. Leona 80mBilgin YachtsBilgin Yachts presents its 80m Leona. Its striking bright-scarlet hull, earning it the moniker "the Red Bullet," ensures it stands out even at Port Hercules. Unique Yacht Design handles the exterior, while H2 Yacht Design takes charge of the interior. As the largest debut at Monaco this year, Leona is a part of the Bilgin 263 series, sharing features like a lifting transom and a spacious beach club pool with its sister ship, Tatiana. A remarkable feature includes Greek statues adorned with fiber optics, creating the illusion of a starry night sky.O'Rea77.7mGolden YachtsThe O'Rea exterior design, created by Studio Vafiadis, showcases a powerful profile with muscular lines that exude strength. Her contemporary interior is a collaborative work of art by Studio Vafiadis and the Italian studio Massari Design. O'Rea features a sculpted and architectural hatch that resembles a gate, adorned with black and metallic finishes that lend a modern touch to the entrance of her beach house.Alchemy66m RossinaviThis yacht is a result of fine collaboration between the Italian shipyard and Philippe Briand, Founder of Vitruvius Yachts, who is responsible for the exterior design of the vessel and the naval architecture, and Enrico Gobbi, Founder of Venice-based practice Enrico Gobbi - Team for Design, who was responsible for interior and outdoor spaces styling. The three-deck yacht has enough space for all owner’s wishes, her green and efficient design saves both fuel and emissions. Entourage60mAmelsDelivered in early 2023, the customized 60m Entourage will be on show for the first time. As the second superyacht in the Amels 60 range, she features exterior design by Monaco based Espen Oeino International and naval architecture by Damen Yachting. Her interior design was made by the Canadian design studio Burdifilek.57Steel56.7mSanlorenzoThe 57Steel, despite its 1050 GT tonnage, exemplifies Sanlorenzo's hallmark elegance. Collaborating with Studio Zuccon International Project for exterior architecture and Piero Lissoni for interiors, it's a Monaco Yacht Show 2023 premiere that reimagines traditional layouts. The wheelhouse, usually on the upper deck, now adorns an extra deck, featuring the owner's 55 sq. m cabin with panoramic views from the owner's deck. Piero Lissoni's architectural vision blends spaces, vertical elements, and his signature staircase. This reshuffle also creates a full-beam VIP cabin on the main deck and an expansive 150 sq. m beach area. The bow garage accommodates tenders up to 7.5 meters, with a 30 sq. m gym and sauna.Baglietto T5252mBagliettoThe 52m yacht was penciled by Francesco Paszkowski Design. The interiors were also designed by FPD in cooperation with Margherita Casprini. The yacht is fitted with a hybrid propulsion system that will allow it to choose a more efficient cruising mode, curbing both consumption and environmental impact. When cruising in electric diesel mode, the T52 can indeed boast a range of up to 7,600 nautical miles, and remain at anchor up to 10 hours relying on the batteries only.Jewels 53mTurquoise YachtsThe 53m Jewels featuring a captivating sky-blue hull, is sure to capture attention wherever it sails. This unique exterior design stems from a debut partnership between the Turkish builder and Miami's DeBasto Design. Inside, it offers accommodations for 12 guests, crafted by the British studio H2 Yacht Design. With a substantial volume of 720 gross tonnes, and equipped with a spa pool, a bar, and areas for relaxation.Anjelif50mColumbus Yachts50-meter full custom aluminum superyacht Anjelif’s exteriors and interiors were made by Marco Casali of Too-Design while the engineering is by the Palumbo Superyachts team. A model tailored to the needs of her experienced owner and packed with technical and stylistic innovations like the hybrid, diesel-electric propulsion. She has a lot to offer – from open-air cinema to touch-and-go helipad and spa. Grey50mTankoaThe latest superyacht in Tankoa's successful 50m all-aluminum series with the exterior lines by Francesco Paszkowski and the interior design by Giorgio Cassetta. In addition to her features, the owner chose to incorporate an awe-inspiring outdoor home cinema screen, which is strategically positioned in front of the swimming pool lounge on the foredeck.Alunya49.9mBenettiAlunya ia a 50-meter yacht and the second in the B.Now family to feature the Oasis Deck™. This innovative solution transforms the traditional stern swim platform with hydraulic terraces spanning the entire deck width, crafting a vast 110 sq. m beach club. Offering a seamless 270° aft view, it boasts a glass-walled infinity pool and various social spaces.UV II45mISA YachtsThe yacht has a steel hull and aluminum superstructure. Her naval engineering was handled by Palumbo Superyachts; Enrico Gobbi – Team for Design designed the exterior lines, and Luca Dini Design & Architecture penned the interior design. UV II is powered by 2 CAT C32 ACERT engines, each delivering 1300 hp for a top speed of 15.4 knots and a cruising speed of 14 knots. This Is It43.5mThe Italian Sea GroupThis Is It is the latest addition to the Tecnomar fleet, a 43.5-meter motor catamaran with approximately 750GT. This innovative catamaran combines tradition and innovation, offering a lifestyle concept defined by over 600 sq. m of impressive glass windows. Its aluminum superstructure and optimized hull lines enhance hydrodynamic efficiency, significantly reducing fuel consumption and emissions. Complying with IMO Tier III requirements, it employs exhaust gas treatment technology to reduce nitrogen oxide emissions. Inside, it boasts six cabins, a massage room, and a galley with polarized glass for events and show cooking.Fancy35m Nautor SwanThe Swan 108 Fancy boasts a full carbon hull and deck constructed with epoxy Sprint technology. Notably, it introduces a groundbreaking dual-acting transom door that expands the beach club area significantly without compromising interior space. The yacht's spacious saloon, illuminated by large potholes, offers a refined and intimate ambiance. Accommodating up to 9 guests, it includes a master suite, a VIP cabin, and two double cabins, one featuring an extra pullman bed.Sandbank34.1mGulf CraftThe Majesty 111 represents a harmonious collaboration between Gulf Craft and the Netherlands-based Phathom Studio. Phathom Studio's innovative exterior lines and refined interior design, combined with Gulf Craft's extensive yacht-building expertise, have given rise to a new generation of dynamic Majesty yachts. Featuring a unique 6-cabin layout and an expansive forward VIP cabin, this yacht redefines space utilization in its size category. It emphasizes seamless indoor-outdoor connections, offers panoramic views, a plunge pool on the foredeck, and integrates innovative energy-saving systems for efficient cruising and comfort. This yacht is a result of meticulous market research and trend forecasting for a global audience. Gulf Craft Announces European Debut of its Award-Winning Majesty 111 at Monaco Yacht Show 2023Sunreef 80 Eco23.8mSunreefSunreef Yachts presented the 80 Sunreef Power Eco, heralded as the world's most cutting-edge electric motor yacht. Pioneering green technology, including a groundbreaking solar panel system, powers this catamaran, setting new standards for eco-friendliness and energy efficiency. This four-cabin eco-catamaran showcases a smart energy management system, energy-efficient air conditioning, and sustainable linen furniture. Unique offerings include a bow deck hot tub, a concealed stern garage, and an alfresco gym.Credits: Amels; Bilgin Yachts; Gulf Craft; Nautor Swan; MYS; Sunreef; TISG; Yacht Harbour archive
September 26, 2023
Daroca Design aims to create a buzz at this year's Monaco Yacht Show with its latest concept, a 107-meter superyacht named Waves. Drawing inspiration from the sea, this Spanish studio designed the yacht with a pale blue hull reminiscent of ocean waves, contrasting a towering black superstructure.In collaboration with Bolidt, a maritime flooring specialist, Waves introduces two groundbreaking decking solutions. The first exhibits a captivating geometric pattern to provide a contemporary touch, while the second design embraces more organic, flowing lines inspired by nature.Daroca Design explained, "This collaboration goes beyond aesthetics, with these designs redefining luxury yacht interaction with their environment through the ingenious use of Bolidt materials."The yacht's exterior is equally remarkable, featuring a spacious aft deck with a large pool cascading to a swim platform below. The foredeck boasts a substantial helipad for sea arrivals and departures. The three upper decks offer numerous alfresco dining areas and lounges for entertainment.Credits: Daroca Design
September 26, 2023
Sanlorenzo will bring two yachts this year at the Monaco Yacht Show scheduled from 27 to 30 September 2023.57Steelphoto by Guillaume PlissonThe 57Steel, despite its 1050 GT tonnage, showcases Sanlorenzo's signature purity of form. The collaboration with Studio Zuccon International Project for exterior architecture and Piero Lissoni for interior design resulted in an innovative superyacht. Premiered at the Monaco Yacht Show 2023, it reimagines traditional layout configurations. The wheelhouse, typically on the upper deck, now resides on an additional deck, housing the owner's cabin, offering a 55 sq. m space with panoramic views from the owner deck. photo by Guillaume PlissonPiero Lissoni describes the yacht as an architectural creation, blending spaces, vertical elements, and his unique staircase. The redistribution of spaces has also allowed for a full-beam VIP cabin on the main deck and a vast 150 sq. m beach area. Placing the garage at the bow enables accommodation for tenders up to 7.5 meters, while a 30 sq. m gym and a sauna cater to the owner's well-being.AlloyImaginative spaces come to life through innovative redesigns, offering fresh perspectives. Alloy boasts an owner's cabin, a true private suite spanning three levels. Designed to enhance onboard living, this cabin occupies the main deck's spacious midsection. It comprises a sleeping area, a mezzanine-level lounge, another on the upper deck, a versatile indoor study, and a generous open area on the bow featuring a sundeck, Jacuzzi, and relaxation zones.Alloy seamlessly blends intimate spaces with social areas. It provides dedicated zones for the owner and guests, including four double cabins on the lower deck, a sun deck, and an expansive beach club housing a gym and an outdoor platform at water level, creating a seamless connection with the sea.The innovative concept and design are the result of collaborative efforts within the Sanlorenzo team. Zuccon International Project studio contributed to the exterior lines and concept development, while the interior design of the Alloy superyacht showcased in Monaco is by the German firm Ash.SP110The superyachts will share the space with SP110. A pioneering model, the first yacht in the smart performance range, SP110 is the result of the collaboration of a team of professionals at the highest levels of their individual skills: Bernardo Zuccon for the exteriors, Tilli Antonelli for product development at Sanlorenzo, Marco Arnaboldi for the hull design, Piero Lissoni for the interiors.The Sanlorenzo models will be joined by the Bluegame newcomer presented at the Cannes Yachting Festival, the BGM75, the first model in the new BGM range with which the Sanlorenzo Group brand enters the multihull segment.Sanlorenzo was founded in 1958 in Viareggio by yacht builder Gionvanni Jannetti. In 2005, Massimo Perrotti became the majority shareholder in the shipyard. Sanlorenzo builds yachts ranging from 28.60 to 73 meters in length. Credits: Sanlorenzo
September 25, 2023
Camper & Nicholsons has announced the sale of the 46.67m Sea Falcon II, with senior sales broker Jean-Marie Recamier and yacht sales advisor Jessica Ruez, introducing the buyer. The seller was represented by Edmiston.Built by Italian shipyard Puglia in 1993, Sea Falcon II underwent a major refit between 2015 and 2017. She can accommodate up to 11 guests across five cabins, including an owner’s cabin forward on the main deck with a large en suite with bathtub and shower, plus a further two double cabins and two twin cabins on the lower deck. Out on deck, there’s room for alfresco dining on the main deck aft, while the flybridge offers panoramic views either from the hot tub or the forward-facing bar area. When the two tenders are in use, the bridge deck aft becomes a large area for guest use. Credits: Camper & Nicholsons
September 25, 2023
This Rossinavi’s creation was made by collaboration between the Italian shipyard and Philippe Briand, Founder of Vitruvius Yachts, who is responsible for the exterior design of the vessel and the naval architecture. The interior and outdoor spaces styling was made by Enrico Gobbi, Founder of Venice-based practice Enrico Gobbi - Team for Design. Alchemy, who spreads across three decks, a testament to luxurious design and environmental responsibility. Commissioned by a discerning private client, this yacht is the embodiment of elegance, efficiency, and wellness-focused living.At the heart of Alchemy's innovation is its diesel-electric propulsion system, powered by pods. This cutting-edge design minimizes energy loss between the engines and navigation speed, making it an eco-conscious vessel.The client's vision was to maximize outdoor spaces and wellness aspects, resulting in over 330 sq. m of generously appointed outdoor areas spread across three decks. From hot tubs to sunpads, bars to barbecue areas, Alchemy offers unparalleled amenities. The bridge deck boasts a stylish saloon and alfresco dining, while the main deck features a spacious cockpit.For the adventurous at heart, Alchemy's garage is a treasure trove of water toys, tenders, paddleboards, windsurfs, water skis, inflatable docks, and even mountain bikes for onshore exploration.Internally, Alchemy's interior reflects tranquility and elegance. Enrico Gobbi's vision comes to life with a soothing color palette of beige and ivory, along with natural materials. The beach club, resembling a spa, features teak wood complemented by stainless steel and white marble with a matte finish.Lighting plays a pivotal role in creating ambiance, with indirect lights hidden behind panels and marbles, creating mesmerizing reflections. Natural teak, white natural stone surfaces, and prestigious steel detailing dominate the exterior design.A stunning suspended staircase in the main saloon, connecting the bridge to the upper deck, stands as a testament to design innovation. The guest cabins share common materials for ceilings but incorporate personal elements like artworks sourced from worldwide travels.What sets Alchemy apart is the lobby-free layout, where a central staircase connects the main and upper deck saloons, allowing unobstructed views down the length of the yacht. The owners' cabin, forward on the main deck, combines functionality and luxury, with open closets integrated into the cabin space, creating an office area as well.Alchemy's galley, built for three chefs, and a wine cellar that holds hundreds of bottles elevate the onboard dining experience. A full-beam gym, a vast array of water toys, an open-air wellness room, and a panoramic spa pool on the sundeck cater to all guest desires.Rossinavi's unique approach to diesel-electric propulsion, paired with naval architect Philippe Briand's commitment to efficiency, gives Alchemy a slender hull that glides through the water with minimal resistance. This green and efficient design saves both fuel and emissions.Rossinavi is an Italian manufacturer of custom steel and aluminum superyachts 28m in size and larger. The Rossi shipyard was founded in the 1970s and is located in Viareggio.Credits: Rossinavi
September 25, 2023