The first superyacht ever built by Italian shipyard Fincantieri, the 134-meter Serene was delivered in 2011 to Russian billionaire, Yuri Scheffler. As was later revealed, the oligarch sold his superyacht in July 2015 to Saudi Arabia's deputy crown prince, Mohammed bin Salman for $458 million.
Featuring a salt-water swimming pool, a supersized hot tub, a sauna in front of the sea and a fully-operational helipad, Serene became known in yachting as one of the most inspiring superyachts ever completed.
At the time of her delivery, Serene was the 9th largest yacht in the world, barely topping the Emir of Qatar's 133-meter Al Mirqab and outdone by David Geffen's 138-meter Lurssen, Rising Sun. For the state-controlled Italian shipyard, Fincantieri, Serene was, however, the first yacht the company ever built, having primarily focused on commercial ships before.
Currently the 15th largest yacht, Serene turns heads anywhere she goes, not only due to her giant-like size, but also her exterior lines drawn by Espen Oeino and series of innovations in the interior.
Following the sale, her former owner, Scheffler claimed that Fincantieri's second yacht, the 140-meter Ocean Victory built for Russian billionaire, Viktor Rashnikov, had infringed on his intellectual property by building the superyacht on the same platform as Serene. As a result, Scheffler filled a suit against Fincantieri claiming €20,9 million from the shipyard in damages.
Whereas it is unknown how much exactly Scheffler spent building the 134-meter Serene at Fincantieri, it is widely believed in the superyacht sector that the vessel was sold at a profit by Scheffler to the Saudi Arabian deputy crown prince. As revealed by media as part of the Paradise papers, Serene was sold for €420 million.
At the time of the sale, some publications had reported that the sale was closed within several hours with the buyer having asked Scheffler to vacate the yacht within hours of the purchase. The new documentation that emerged through the Paradise papers leaks, however, tells a different story as the sale took at least 10 days to close. Before it could change hands, Serene had to cruise into international waters.
Stretching over a beam of 18.5 meters, Serene is 6 decks tall and boasts a myriad of amenities that few five-star hotels have. One of her most noticeable features from the outside is her supersized bathtub located aft of the sundeck.
One of the seven pools onboard Serene, the Jacuzzi on the top deck is surrounded by lounging pad for sunbathing. Forward of the hot tub is a fully-stocked, wet bar underneath the yacht's observational deck that features an additional set of sun loungers.
Up on the sundeck is yet another spa pool surrounded by lounging pads, located forward of the deck. This particular pool features bar stools and is connected to a fully stocked bar surrounded by two additional hot tubs. A table for casual dining can also be found in the shaded area of the sundeck.
Serene's interior was designed by British design studio Reymond Langton, incorporating a sophisticated mix of cream and dark colors with wooden fixtures. Offering views from any imaginable vantage point, Serene's sky lounge is equipped with a myriad of sofas, chairs and coffee tables for cocktails and tea.
A more formal location designed for the entertainment of larger groups, the main lounge features white colors with dark tones. At the center of the room is a piano with cocktail tables spread out across the room. Interestingly, this lounge sits just over the main dining room with its chandelier hanging through the two spaces and letting the music spread.
The formal dining area features two tables, capable of each accommodating up to 12 guests, bringing the total to 24 guests. Its layout, however, allows for the possibility to extend the table in order to hold larger banquets. On both sides of the room are floor-to-ceiling windows. In terms of food, Serene features a fire pizza oven as well as a teppanyaki grill.
Each space on Serene features a different set of colors, all coordinated across one central theme that spreads around the yacht with circles both on the floor and on the ceiling to create a sense of symmetry. Some of Serene's unique features include an indoor climbing wall as well as an underwater observation lounge.
The 134-meter yacht can carry a total of 24 guests across 12 staterooms divided into one master suite with essentially an owner's deck, a VIP cabin, three twin cabins and seven double staterooms. Serene carries a crew of over 40 people onboard.
Prior to the yacht being sold to the Saudi Arabian crown prince, Serene was made available for charter to select guests by Scheffler. These have included Microsoft founder, Bill Gates, who reportedly chartered Serene at a price tag of $5 million per week during the summer of 2014.
In addition to her vast interior spaces, Serene's exterior lounging spots have been optimized to best utilize the space onboard the 134-meter superyacht. Forward on the bow, for example, forward of the commercial-grade helipad can be found a lounging spot on the bow of the yacht. Although a long walk from the aft deck, these spaces are often used for maximum privacy when moored in a harbor.
Perhaps the most unique space onboard Serene is her swimming pool located aft of the main deck under a retractable glass roof. Up on the main deck, this opening can be closed with glass panels and is surrounded by lounging areas.
One of the most advanced swimming pools ever built on board a superyacht, it is the key element of the beach club that stretches for a large portion of the yacht's lower deck. Within the pool area are two additional Jacuzzis for the yacht's guests to relax in. On both sides of the yacht are lounging areas with access to the sea through foldable platforms.
Serene's beach club facilities, however, do not stop just with its pool. The superyacht features a full-sized spa with a sauna room with glass doors looking out onto the sea through a foldable platform. Next to the sauna are a hammam as well as a snow room.
Lighting systems were installed throughout Serene's exterior to ensure that the yacht could boast a sleek look at night as well as during the day. During the summer, the yacht could previously often have been seen lighting up Monaco and the Côte d'Azur.
Photo by Julien Hubert
Following her sale to the deputy crown prince of Saudi Arabia, the yacht started spending time in the Persian Gulf. During the summer of this year, Serene ran aground on a reef near Tiran Island in the Red Sea. Some damage is believed to have been sustained to her bow at the time, although the superyacht has been repaired since. Several days ago, she cruised to a shipyard in the Netherlands for maintenance work.
Currently valued at $1,6 billion by Forbes, Yuri Sheffler made his fortune in the alcohol business. Venturing into business in 1993, Sheffler made a series of moves that got him the rights to brands of vodka such as Stolichnaya, which was previously owned by a state-owned corporation. This has put him at the center of long litigations with the Russian government over the ownership of the brand.
Having left Russia for Switzerland and the United Kingdom during the early 2000s, Sheffler is currently the main shareholder in SPI Group, a conglomerate that sells alcohol under 380 brands in 160 countries. Earlier this year he acquired an estate in Scotland at an asking price of £25 million.
In 2014, Fincantieri launched its second megayacht, the 140-meter Ocean Victory which was commissioned by another Russian oligarch, Viktor Rashnikov, whose net worth is estimated at $4.8 billion. Prior to its launch in December 2014 however, Fincantieri was ordered to pay €20.9 million to Serena Equity Limited (the company controlled by Shefler that owned Serene) by London courts.
Shefler's main claim was that Fincantieri had used Serene, on which the billionaire says he holds intellectual property, to develop Ocean Victory which he says is a near sistership. In fact, both superyachts boast an exterior design by Espen Oeino and seem to have similar technical characteristics.
As such, English courts have granted Shefler €13,2 million for the violation of his intellectual property and €7.7 million for late deliveries, which were to be paid by Fincantieri where the Italian government holds a 70% controlling stake. Fincantieri, however, filed a motion in Trieste's Court of Appeals in 2015 to dismiss the fact that London's ruling applied.
Mohammad bin Salman, born in 1985, is the deputy crown prince of Saudi Arabia and currently sits as the youngest defense minister in the world and the first deputy Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia.
Julien Hubert
From a technical standpoint, Serene can reach a top speed of 25 knots and cruise at 15 knots. Reportedly, her interior volume comes in at 8,231GT, ie, half of Dilbar, the world's largest yacht by gross tonnage.
Following its successful American debut, the Seadeck 7 has arrived in APAC for its regional première at the upcoming Singapore Yachting Festival, running from April 10th to 13th, 2025. Joining the Seadeck 7 on display will be the Magellano 60 and the Grande Trideck.Seadeck 7This year marks a pivotal moment for Azimut in Asia, a region teeming with growth opportunities for the yachting industry. The Shipyard is intensifying its presence locally with a strategic development plan focused on enhancing its distribution network and owner-centric services. Celebrating this expansion, Azimut will host its inaugural Azimut Asian Rendez-Vous in Tokyo during the spring season.Azimut’s dominance in the region is evident in its sales of yachts measuring up to 40 meters, reinforced recently by accolades at the 2025 Best of the Best Awards by the Hurun Research Institute. Recognized as the brand with the strongest appeal among Chinese HNWIs, Azimut also saw the Seadeck 7 honored as the Luxury Hybrid Yacht Best New Arrival.Grande TrideckThis winning streak culminates in Azimut’s participation at the Singapore Yachting Festival, where visitors at ONE°15 Marina, Sentosa Cove, will have the chance to explore the Seadeck 7. Designed to offer a gentler and more sustainable way of enjoying the ocean, the Seadeck 7 integrates cutting-edge technology, design innovation, and a deep commitment to human and environmental well-being. Alongside the Seadeck 7, the Magellano 60, introduced last year, and the Grande Trideck, with two deliveries in the region and a third imminent, continue to resonate strongly with the growing superyacht market.Enrico Chiaussa, Azimut’s Chief Commercial Officer for EMEA-APAC, emphasized, “The Singapore Yachting Festival is the perfect platform to showcase the Seadeck 7, embodying Azimut’s vision of reinventing life onboard through groundbreaking layouts and partnerships with globally acclaimed designers. Asia, with its dynamic energy and burgeoning interest in sustainable solutions, aligns perfectly with our philosophy, making it a vital market for our continued growth.”The Seadeck 7 stands out as the world’s first yacht to merge hybrid propulsion with the Volvo Penta IPS system, leveraging Volvo Penta’s pioneering hybrid-electric technology. Coupled with extensive carbon fiber usage and an efficient hull co-developed by NAMES and the Azimut|Benetti Group R&D Department, this innovation reduces CO₂ emissions by up to 40%, reflecting Azimut’s ongoing pursuit of sustainability.Magellano 60At the heart of the Seadeck Series’ design is the innovative Fun Island – a reinterpretation of the aft cockpit conceptualized by Alberto Mancini. Transforming this space into a sea-embracing terrace, the Fun Island eliminates barriers between occupants and the surrounding marine environment, fostering a profound connection with nature. This ethos carries over into the interior, where Matteo Thun & Antonio Rodriguez employed natural, recycled, and recyclable materials to create a distinctive aesthetic.Azimut Yachts is an Azimut Benetti Group brand. With its Atlantis, Magellano Flybridge, S, Verve and Grande collections, Azimut offers the widest range of 10 to 40 meters.Credits: Azimut Yachts
April 4, 2025
The Italian Sea Group has announced that the outfitting of the much-anticipated Admiral 73m megayacht is in full swing at their headquarters in Marina di Carrara. As part of the esteemed ADM Fleet, which comprises vessels ranging from 66 to 73 meters, the Admiral 73 represents the epitome of luxury and performance. To date, seven units of the fleet have already been sold.The Admiral 73 exterior, masterfully crafted by The Italian Sea Group Centro Stile, combines elegance with modern aesthetics, while the interior, meticulously curated by FM Architettura, exudes sophistication and refinement. During the current outfitting phase, the focus lies on integrating state-of-the-art technological systems and navigation equipment, ensuring that the megayacht remains at the forefront of innovation.Spanning three lavish decks, the Admiral 73 is an oasis of comfort and opulence, tailored to provide an unrivaled entertainment experience for the owner, their family, and guests alike. From its striking design elements to its carefully selected amenities, every inch of the megayacht radiates exclusivity.Large windows on the main and upper decks flood the interior with natural light, framing breathtaking panoramas. The main deck features a wide salon and dining area, blending effortlessly with the outdoor lounge through large sliding glass panels. Foldable balconies and a full-beam indoor-outdoor space further enhance the alfresco lifestyle. An intimate relaxation area at the upper deck completed with a cocktail bar and floor-to-ceiling windows, invites guests to unwind in style.Spacious owner’s suite occupying over 90 square meters on the main deck, the owner’s suite offers unparalleled privacy. Twelve guest cabins and twenty crew quarters, including the captain’s cabin, ensure utmost comfort for everyone aboard.The beach club on the lower deck boasts foldable balconies, complemented by a gym, sauna, and massage room, providing the ultimate retreat for health and wellness enthusiasts. The sun deck is a haven for relaxation, featuring a sun bar, pool, and ample lounging areas for socializing under the open sky.Powered by two CAT 3512C engines, each generating 1500 kW at 1600 RPM, the Admiral 73 delivers a maximum speed of 15 knots and a range of 6000 nautical miles at 10 knots.The Admiral 73 megayacht is scheduled to delivery in late 2026.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
April 4, 2025
The construction of the innovative Sialia 45 yacht at the shipyard in Poland is proceeding according to plan. A major achievement has been marked with the completion of the hull and deck. The first fully electric Sialia 45 is expected to be unveiled in June, with its official debut taking place at the Cannes Yachting Festival in September 2025. With its advanced battery system, the yacht boasts a range of 55 nautical miles at 25 knots using standard batteries, while the endurance pack extends this range to over 130 nautical miles. Furthermore, it features rapid charging, allowing the batteries to reach 90% capacity from 10% in just over 2.5 hours.As work progresses on the Sialia 45, the hull and deck have been successfully finished, and the bottom liner is nearing completion, signifying a crucial phase in the production process. One standout feature is the use of cutting-edge carbon technology in constructing the hull. Employing three distinct infusion techniques, the lightweight yet durable carbon-fiber composite achieves optimal performance and longevity. The full carbon sandwich epoxy construction ensures structural integrity and minimizes noise and vibrations, delivering a smooth and comfortable experience.With the target completion date set for late June, Sialia Yachts is confident about meeting their production goals. Once the first unit is delivered, manufacturing will ramp up to produce an impressive ten vessels annually. According to Milvio Ricci, Chief Commercial Officer at Sialia Yachts, this meticulous approach reflects the company's commitment to quality and attention to detail.The Sialia 45 promises unmatched power and efficiency. Powered by dual 300 kW motors, the 14-meter electric cruiser can attain speeds of up to 43 knots. Featuring top-tier amenities, spacious interiors, and versatile deck designs, the yacht is designed for extended journeys without compromising speed. Using the standard 500 kWh battery pack, the Sialia 45 can travel 55 nautical miles at 25 knots, while the optional 200 kWh endurance pack increases this range to 77 miles.For even greater flexibility, the yacht can be equipped with either a 140 kW or 350 kW biodiesel range extender, extending the range to 164 or 240 nautical miles, respectively. Fast-charging capabilities ensure minimal downtime, enabling users to quickly recharge the batteries from 10% to 90% within 3.5 hours—even with the enhanced endurance pack installed.Offered in three distinct models – Runabout, Sport, and Weekender – the Sialia 45 caters to diverse needs. The Runabout model incorporates a sleek, low-profile windshield and open deck layout inspired by traditional motorboats. Meanwhile, the Sport variant adopts a center console configuration with a protective windscreen and roof, offering shelter from the elements. The Weekender version features a glass deckhouse that can transform into a climate-controlled indoor-outdoor space, perfect for warmer or cooler climates.Each model boasts a well-designed lower deck, including a full-spec bathroom with a shower and an optional galley or salon area. Multiple seating arrangements, expansive sun pads, and customizable finishes allow owners to tailor their yacht to suit their preferences, whether they seek a functional pleasure craft or a luxurious superyacht.Sialia Yachts prioritizes sustainability across every aspect of design and production. Beyond the eco-friendly electric drivetrain, the company utilizes recycled materials such as cork flooring and emphasizes lifecycle considerations. These measures reduce environmental impact while ensuring high-quality craftsmanship. Additionally, the electric motors require minimal maintenance, eliminating the need for frequent oil changes or servicing typically associated with combustion engines. Batteries are rated for 30,000 cycles and come with a five-year warranty, ensuring reliability and peace of mind for owners.Established in 2017, Sialia Yachts, owned by Silent Straits, is a company focused on sustainability and ocean-friendly innovation aiming to set new standards in yachting, with designs that inspire both enthusiasts and experts. The company offers the following models: 45, 59, and 80 Explorer. Sialia Yachts is based in Warsaw, Poland, with a team that includes members in the Netherlands and Italy.Credits: Sialia Yachts
April 4, 2025
On March 30th, Sunreef Yachts made a significant stride in its global expansion by inaugurating the Sunreef Lounge in Shanghai. Strategically situated at the prestigious Sunch Yacht Club in Pudong, this new facility symbolizes the company's dedication to advancing luxury yachting in Asia.More than just an exhibition space, the Sunreef Lounge acts as a cultural center, facilitating meaningful interactions between clients, collaborators, and enthusiasts. Here, visitors can explore Sunreef's state-of-the-art technologies and environmentally conscious solutions in a refined and engaging atmosphere.Central to the lounge's offerings is the groundbreaking Sunreef Ultima line, which integrates speed, comfort, and sustainability. Designed to inspire responsible ownership, this cutting-edge collection highlights the shipyard's commitment to shaping the future of eco-conscious yachting.By merging global luxury standards with local customs and sustainability principles, Sunreef Yachts establishes itself as a trailblazer in the Asian market. This initiative marks a promising era for the brand and sets a new benchmark for the evolution of yachting in the region.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; rleine/unsplash.com
April 3, 2025
Northrop & Johnson announces the successful sale of the 51-meter Sapphire, a Trinity-built motor yacht, through Boathouse Auctions. Represented by Yacht Brokers Sean Doyle and Wes Sanford, Sapphire attracted serious interest from qualified buyers leading up to the auction, reflecting her strong market appeal.Delivered in 2009 and constructed using lightweight aluminum to ABS classification standards, Sapphire embodies the finest traditions of American yacht construction. The vessel underwent a comprehensive refit in 2019, followed by substantial technical upgrades in 2020 and 2021, including engine rebuilds and generator replacements. Recently completing her five-year survey, Sapphire entered the market in prime condition, ready for immediate use.A standout feature of Sapphire is her versatile layout, which accommodates up to 20 guests across seven well-appointed staterooms. This configuration makes her ideal for large families or as a capable mothership support vessel. Guests can choose from two triple cabins with queen and twin beds, two twin cabins with Pullman berths, and additional cabins on the main and bridge decks. The bridge-deck master suite stands out with its luxurious ensuite bath, soothing bathtub, and direct access to a private exterior deck.Zero-speed stabilizers and a shallow draft ensure smooth cruising and easy navigation to popular destinations like Florida and The Bahamas. With a 4,000-nautical-mile range, Sapphire is equally adept at long-distance travel.Outdoor spaces are carefully designed for leisure and entertainment. The sundeck boasts a relaxing hot tub, a well-stocked bar, and multiple lounging and dining options. Other al fresco areas include the Portuguese bridge, bridge deck aft lounge, and a spacious main deck aft dining table. Thoughtful integration of tender and toy storage keeps the decks clear and functional.James McFarlane’s interior design combines timeless elegance with practicality. The main salon offers ample seating, a welcoming bar, and a formal dining area for 14 guests, enhanced by an abundance of natural light. Forward of the salon lies a multipurpose bonus room that can serve as a playroom or an extra VIP suite.Featuring a proven platform, recent technical improvements, and generous accommodations, Sapphire presents an attractive option for experienced yacht owners seeking a capable, family-focused superyacht.Credits: Northrop & Johnson
April 3, 2025