In the spotlight throughout a long-running case around Malaysia's sovereign wealth fund 1MDB, the 91-meter Equanimity is now being auctioned for a nine-figure sum by Malaysia's government. Built by Oceanco, the superyacht was delivered with one of the largest spas ever seen onboard a yacht.
Equanimity was, however, famous across the yachting community, well before being pushed into the limelight by this case, for its extensive spa area on the lower deck, plunge pools and highly customised interior. At 2,998 gross tons of interior volume, the yacht still sits as the 65th largest yacht in the world.
1MDB was created in 2009 as a sovereign wealth fund with over $4 billion under management to invest in strategic projects. After a series of investments in energy and real estate, a controversy around the fund began as to whether funds had been misappropriated throughout this period by management and government officials.
Later investigations led to asset seizures spearheaded by the US DoJ, amongst which was Equanimity. It was then claimed that her owner, financier Jho Low, had ordered the yacht using profits that were connected to 1MDB's real estate dealings and off-shore accounts totalling over $250 million for the yacht's purchase and upkeep.
Financed also in part through a loan by Sotheby's financial against art works, Equanimity was delivered in 2014 and introduced at the Monaco Yacht Show later that year where she won the award of finest yacht. Amongst her main highlights was an extensive spa area that spanned a large part of her lower deck.
Following developments in the 1MDB case, the DoJ moved to seize Equanimity in June 2017 as part of their effort to recoup an estimated $400 million in alleged profits from Low. The yacht was eventually seized in Indonesia at the request of Malaysian authorities. According to a spokesman for Equanimity (Cayman) Ltd, this was done in violation of Indonesian and American court rulings.
Following the seizure, the yacht was transported to Malaysia where finance minister, Lim Guan Eng said an auction of the yacht was to take place. It is now understood at least nine figures were being sought for the yacht at the auction, which is expected to be completed by March 2019.
Equanimity was, however, famous across the yachting community, well before being pushed into the limelight by this case, for its extensive spa area on the lower deck, plunge pools and highly customised interior. At 2,998 gross tons of interior volume, the yacht still sits as the 65th largest yacht in the world.
The 91-meter's spa is akin to that of a megapolis' 5-star hotel. Incorporating plunge pools, massage areas, saunas, experiential showers, hammams, jacuzzis and a gym all designed with the most precious of materials, it directly connects to a beach club from which guests can swim out into the ocean.
Equanimity's 5 decks are connected by a grand staircase coupled with a glass elevator. Accommodating up to 22 guests in 11 cabins, the yacht was the first one to be built to comply with the new Passenger Yacht Code. Carrying a crew of 31, the yacht can cruise for up to 5,000 nautical miles at a speed of 15 knots, with its top speed at 18.5 kn.
Aft of its second deck, Equanimity features a large helipad, typically covered with lounging sofas and sun beds when not in use. Forward of the helipad is a 20sqm spa pool sitting in front of the entrance to the yacht's spacious main salon. Throughout the deck, guests are kept within the atmosphere of a luxurious, relaxing spa.
Inside, across the yacht's lounges and cabins can be found a continuing theme of the sea rendered through a clever use of sculptures, ornaments and glass. Centred around a clear colour scheme with tall windows throughout, Equanimity's interior almost acts as an extension of the sea wherever the yacht cruises.
Equanimity's staterooms, styled like a luxurious, modern hotel, are spread out into a master cabin with a study, which can be converted into a double cabin, a VVIP suite, 3 VIP cabins, as well as an additional 2 double and 2 twin cabins spread out throughout the yacht's main deck, giving good views to all guests.
Fully-equipped, the 91-meter's gym can be used underway but is best enjoyed when at anchor, with a fold down platform that opens up onto the sea and lets guests exercise practically on the water. Equanimity also comes complete with two custom-designed, 10-meter Hodgdon tenders to ferry around her guests in style.
Malaysia's auction will see qualified buyers making sealed bids for the yacht in view of a sale that is set to complete by March 2019. Whilst the exact asking price is for the moment unknown, officials are looking for a 9 figure number according to various press reports. This becomes the 2nd high profile yacht auctioned off this year, following the 95-meter Oceanco, Indian Empress, which was sold earlier this year for €35 million during an auction in Malta.
The latest Amels 80 superyacht has arrived at Damen Yachting's Vlissingen, Netherlands facility, marking a key milestone in its construction. Following its recent launch at Damen Yachting's Galati, Romania hull building facility, the 80-meter Amels Limited Editions yacht is now ready for the outfitting phase.This arrival signifies the commencement of the next stage of the build process, highlighting the continued popularity and success of the Amels 80 design. The extensive outfitting work will be carried out at Damen Yachting's Vlissingen East shipyard, a state-of-the-art facility located just 3 nautical miles from the Vlissingen City yard. This shipyard plays a vital role in Damen Yachting's new build and refit operations.This specific Amels 80 is the third currently undergoing outfitting and is scheduled for delivery in 2026. Further details about the project remain confidential at this time.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
January 16, 2025
Dutch Design has unveiled the Sea Rover, a groundbreaking 42.5-meter superyacht concept billed as the world's first wellness-focused vessel. Developed in collaboration with superyacht owner Scott Blum and designer Bernd Weel (renowned for the award-winning Lady Fleur), the Sea Rover represents a limited semi-custom series of just ten yachts. Blum's inspiration stemmed from a lack of superyachts catering to a healthy, balanced lifestyle.This philosophy is evident in the yacht's abundant wellness amenities. Unlike traditional layouts, the spa, gym, and sports court are prominently positioned on the bridge deck. The spa boasts a dual-temperature plunge pool, Jacuzzi, sauna, infrared therapy wall, and massage area. The adaptable sports court caters to pickleball, basketball, paddle tennis, volleyball, or general fitness, doubling as storage for water toys, tenders, and even a car.Accommodation includes five cabins, highlighted by a full-beam owner's suite on the main deck featuring an expansive closet and a luxurious Japanese onsen-style tub and steam room. Nine crew members enjoy quarters finished to the same high standards as the guest cabins, separate from the captain's cabin on the bridge. While interior renderings remain confidential, the design emphasizes a beachy Californian aesthetic with natural wood, stone, and earthen-toned textiles.A central staircase, starting as a sculptural glass table on the sundeck, dramatically illuminates the lower decks. Large glass panels in the dining area provide panoramic views, seamlessly merging with the galley and entertainment space to create a vibrant "grand room" fostering interaction between guests, chef, and crew. A spacious beach club completes the experience, offering a dining table, sunbeds, wet bar, and ample storage.Blum emphasizes the yacht's unique integration of travel and well-being, describing it as an investment that will retain its value. Weel highlights the design's timeless appeal, achieved by prioritizing essential features and creating a classic, clean, and distinctly Dutch aesthetic, effectively condensing the grandeur of much larger yachts into a more intimate yet comprehensively luxurious experience.Credits: Dutch Design
January 16, 2025
Zeelander Yachts, celebrating 22 years of crafting timeless yachts, strengthens its team with the appointment of Floris Koopmans as Business Development Manager. This strategic move reinforces the company’s commitment to exceptional client experiences and global market expansion.In his new role, Koopmans will spearhead efforts to enhance commercial activities worldwide. He will focus on building and nurturing relationships with yacht owners and brokers, ensuring every interaction reflects Zeelander’s renowned quality. Koopmans will also oversee marketing initiatives, ensuring the brand's continued success. His appointment reflects Zeelander's dedication to providing a tailored experience for each client.Floris Koopmans Koopmans brings extensive experience to this position, having served Zeelander Yachts since 2017 in various roles, including marketing, brand management, and sales. His intimate knowledge of the brand and its heritage ensures a seamless integration into the leadership team. This also marks a significant family milestone, as Koopmans will collaborate closely with his father, Sietse Koopmans, the founder and chairman of Zeelander Yachts, furthering the family legacy in the yachting industry.“Zeelander forges objects of desire," says Floris Koopmans. "My goal is to deeply understand our owners' needs so we perfectly tailor each yacht and experience to fulfill those desires." Sietse Koopmans adds, “When I founded Zeelander, I aimed for the best yachts money could buy. Floris embodies that vision, bringing valuable perspective and experience, enriched by his upbringing in the yachting world and Zeelander's legacy."The Koopmans family’s deep maritime roots, spanning four generations of skippers, inform Zeelander's unwavering commitment to quality. This dedication is further reinforced by the shipyard's location in Groot-Ammers, Netherlands, a place of significant personal and professional history for the family. The skilled craftsmen, many with decades of experience, bring unparalleled expertise to each yacht's creation.Zeelander Yachts will be showcasing its yachts at the Palm Beach International Boat Show (March 19-23, 2025), providing an excellent opportunity to meet Floris Koopmans and learn more about the brand's future plans.Zeelander Yachts was founded in 2002 in the Netherlands by Sietse Koopmans. The first model was unveiled to the public in 2008. The launch model Z44 received positive reviews at the Monaco Yacht Show and drew enormous crowds, despite being at an event dominated by much larger yachts. Within three years, the Z44 had been successfully introduced to the US as well as Europe, and it was an obvious direction to add a larger model to the fleet. The first Z55 was delivered in November 2015, and the flagship Z72 was launched in March 2019.Credits: Tom van Oossanen/Zeelander Yachts
January 16, 2025
Greenline Yachts will once again exhibit its range of motor yachts at boot Düsseldorf 2025, highlighting its commitment to Responsible Yachting. Visitors can explore the Greenline 40 and Greenline 45 Coupe models, along with the debut of the Responsible Power Pack, a breakthrough innovation designed to enhance the sustainability of diesel-powered yachts.Greenline 40The Responsible Power Pack eliminates the need for a traditional generator by combining advanced lithium batteries with high-efficiency alternators. This system enables up to 48 hours of silent anchoring, reduces emissions by up to 80% while at anchor, and ensures quieter, more efficient operation. This innovation demonstrates Greenline’s dedication to offering hybrid technology benefits without requiring a fully hybrid setup.Greenline 45 CoupeIn line with its Responsible Yachting principles, Greenline Yachts also incorporates sustainable materials and practices into its boatbuilding process. These include low-emission resins, foam cores made partially from recycled PET plastics, and vacuum infusion manufacturing techniques that minimize environmental impact.Greenline 40The Greenline 40, a long-standing success since its launch in 2011, embodies the brand's vision of combining manageable size with spacious living. Its super-displacement hull ensures a smooth and efficient ride, while standard solar panels provide a charge of up to 1.98kW, enabling extended stays at anchor without relying on a generator. The layout features a functional galley connected to the cockpit and comfortable sleeping quarters, showcasing craftsmanship and attention to detail.Greenline 45 CoupeThe Greenline 45 Coupe adds versatility and sophistication to mid-range yachting. It offers flexible layouts, with options for two or three cabins, and is equipped with nine standard solar panels generating up to 2.8kW. Features such as a full-beam owner’s cabin, a convertible third cabin, and an elegant design by Marco Casali emphasize comfort and functionality. The yacht’s eco-friendly technology supports extended, self-sufficient stays on the water.Visitors can find Greenline Yachts at its new location in Hall 1, stand 1C91, at boot Düsseldorf 2025. To ensure a personalized experience, appointments can be booked via the Greenline Yachts website.Greenline Yachts are crafted in Slovenia within the European Union. The shipyard adheres to the highest European quality standards and reduces environmental footprint, prioritizes the use of local materials and expertise. The craftsmanship is rooted in more than 50 years of experience in composite boatbuilding. Credits: Greenline Yachts
January 15, 2025
The outfitting of the Admiral 100m gigayacht, currently the largest yacht under construction in Italy, is progressing steadily at The Italian Sea Group’s Marina di Carrara shipyard. Designed by Winch Design and managed by Magnitude Yachts, the project combines classic, refined aesthetics with cutting-edge performance and eco-sustainability.This gigayacht features an innovative diesel-electric propulsion system and a range of luxurious amenities, including a certified helicopter landing pad, a large swimming pool, a spa, a multi-deck lounge, and guest cabins designed to offer maximum comfort. Its exterior design emphasizes elegance, while the integration of sustainable technologies adds a futuristic dimension to this vessel, underscoring its position as a benchmark for modern luxury yachting.Giovanni Costantino, Founder and CEO of The Italian Sea Group, highlighted the significance of this project, stating, “With this project, we confirm our know-how and specific expertise in the construction of large mega and gigayachts. We are satisfied with the progress of this yacht's production, the largest under construction in Italy, and the collaboration with prestigious international partners such as Magnitude Yachts and Winch Design, with whom a strong professional synergy has been established, ensuring an excellent result.”Magnitude Yachts affirmed their role in the project, emphasizing its global significance. “Magnitude is pleased that this important world-class project is advancing well in the construction phase in Italy. It is the second of three projects built by The Italian Sea Group under our management and adds to the growing global presence of Magnitude projects worldwide. Our guiding principle is to deliver a yacht of excellent quality, high value, and delivered within the agreed timelines with the owner,” the company stated.Winch Design, responsible for the yacht’s exterior and interior design, noted their vision for the project. “Winch Design has overseen the exterior and interior design of Project '597', a flagship and reference project for The Italian Sea Group and the gigayacht industry. Lifestyle, adventure, and fun merge in a project that embodies our commitment to innovation, using extensive glasswork to create a decidedly bold design. We are excited to see the progress of this ambitious project,” the design studio remarked.The Admiral 100m gigayacht is scheduled for launch and delivery in 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: TISG
January 15, 2025