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 just a few weeks ago by her original owner, Graeme Hart, she became the largest brokerage yacht sold so far in 2017 with an asking price of $195 million.
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.
Greenline Yachts has taken a significant step in the marine industry by conducting its first full cryptocurrency transaction for the sale of a Greenline 45 Coupe. The deal, finalized at boot Düsseldorf 2025, utilized Bitcoin as the sole payment method, marking a notable advancement for the company.Greenline owner Vladimir Zinchenko noted that while the company had permitted partial cryptocurrency payments since 2018, this transaction represents the first complete cryptocurrency purchase handled by the yard. The process went smoothly, influenced positively by BitPay, a company specialized in cryptocurrency payment processing, which converted the Bitcoin into euros seamlessly.The buyer, introduced by Yacht Partners International in Greece, opted for an expedited build slot, ensuring the yacht would be ready for delivery in June. This accelerated schedule allows the owner to begin enjoying the vessel during the Mediterranean summer.This transaction highlights the growing acceptance of cryptocurrencies in high-value markets, as the buyer likely profited from the significant appreciation of Bitcoin since its original purchase. The buyer chose the Coupe version of the yacht, known for its emphasis on solar energy, with a solar array capable of generating substantial power for autonomous operation.Additionally, the yacht incorporates an office space instead of a traditional third cabin, leveraging solar power to facilitate connectivity and productivity while offshore. This choice reflects the buyer's preference for a tech-enabled, eco-friendly yachting experience.Greenline's move to accept cryptocurrency payments underscores the company's ongoing effort to integrate innovative technologies into its products and processes, further enhancing the ownership experience.Credits: Greenline Yachts
March 6, 2025
Maxim Yachts returns to the U.S. market, announcing its participation in the Palm Beach Boat Show from March 19-23, where it will showcase its latest project, the Max 44 R. This day cruiser, designed by Alex Cherigny, is equipped with three Mercury Verado outboard engines, generating a total of 1,200 horsepower, enabling it to achieve speeds exceeding 50 knots.Developed collaboratively with Alex Cherigny for design and Isonaval studio for engineering, the Max 44 R will make its world debut at the Miami Boat Show prior to its appearance in Palm Beach. Boasting a 44-foot design, the model is poised to attract attention among the anticipated 55,000 visitors at the event.Additionally, Maxim Yachts has appointed David Frazer as its representative in Florida, capitalizing on his extensive experience in the yachting industry and his tenure at Blue Oceans Yachting. Frazer will play a critical role in fortifying the brand's presence in the region and delivering personalized service to clients.This marks yet another step in Maxim Yachts' strategic expansion into the U.S. market, building on its growing recognition for innovative designs and high-performance crafts.Credits: Maxim Yachts
March 6, 2025
Azimut Yachts has appointed YL Yachtlounge as its exclusive dealer for the Austrian market, under the banner of Azimut Yachts Austria. This strategic partnership aims to strengthen the brand's presence and unlock new opportunities in the Austrian market, a pivotal region for high-end yachting along the coastlines of the Upper Adriatic.Based in Salzburg, YL Yachtlounge brings over 30 years of experience in international yacht sales and brokerage, specializing in customer care and service excellence. The company's track record includes collaborations with prominent shipyards and its involvement in the successful sale of the Benetti Diamond 44M M/Y Papa Joe. This achievement has cemented YL Yachtlounge's relationship with the Azimut|Benetti Group, allowing it to expand its representation to include Azimut yachts.Enrico Chiaussa, Chief Commercial Officer of Azimut Yachts EMEA-APAC, highlighted the immediate success of the partnership, noting the signing of the first sales contract shortly after the collaboration began. This indicates Azimut's growth potential in Austria and validates the effectiveness of the partnership moving forward.Austria holds significant importance for Azimut due to its affluent demographics and passionate interest in yachting, bolstered by its proximity to renowned coastal destinations in Italy and Croatia. The new dealership enables Azimut to establish a sustained local presence, cultivating lasting relationships with owners and providing consistent support beyond the peak nautical season.Günter Kapolnek, CEO of YL Yachtlounge, expressed pride in representing Azimut and outlined the company's commitment to delivering personalized and professional service throughout the ownership lifecycle. This partnership underscores Azimut's dedication to innovation and international growth, ensuring Austrian owners receive an exclusive and bespoke experience.Credits: Azimut Yachts
March 6, 2025
Northrop & Johnson announced the sale of the 97-foot (29-meter) Hargrave Raised Pilothouse Motor Yacht "Inevitable". Represented by Yacht Broker Elizabeth Swain, the buyer secured the vessel for an undisclosed price. Last listed at $1.75 million, the yacht underwent extensive refits in 2012 and 2023, showcasing a modernized four-stateroom, six-head layout with dedicated crew accommodations.Constructed in 2003, "Inevitable" boasts numerous amenities, including an aft deck with teak decking, a custom-built teak hi-low dining table, and ample storage. Walk-around decks offer convenient access to the bow, adorned with large custom sunpads and an upholstered seating area. Upon entering the salon, guests are greeted by a warm cherry wood interior accentuated with nautical blue and white tones, featuring generous sofa seating and a formal dining table for eight.The full-beam master suite exudes comfort with his-and-hers ensuite bathrooms, a shared central shower, and dual walk-in closets. Additionally, a built-in upholstered sofa adds to the inviting ambiance, while a private washer/dryer in the foyer ensures maximum convenience. Other accommodations include two VIP suites, each with a queen berth and ensuite, and a versatile twin stateroom with Pullman berths, accommodating up to three guests.Powered by twin 1,400hp Caterpillar 3412E diesel engines, "Inevitable" cruises at 12 knots with a maximum speed of 20 knots. The yacht is equipped with two Onan generators (27kW and 35kW) and two 100 AMP shore power receptacles on automatic reels for seamless operations. The raised pilothouse, accessible via a starboard staircase aft of the galley, features a Stidd electric helm chair and a comprehensive suite of navigation electronics, including Simrad, Furuno radars, Northstar 941XD, and VHF systems.The flybridge, accessible from both the pilothouse and aft deck, includes a hardtop-covered helm with three helm seats, two large U-shaped seating areas with teak tables, and a fully equipped wet bar with a grill, refrigerator, and sink. Aft, the flybridge houses a davit lift with a 2,000-pound capacity and removable chocks for tenders or water toys.Credit: Northrop & Johnson
March 4, 2025
Grand Banks Yachts Limited introduces its newest model, the Grand Banks 62, at the upcoming Palm Beach International Boat Show in Florida from March 19-23, 2025. Under the leadership of Mark Richards, the company continues to push boundaries in luxury long-range cruising."This new Grand Banks 62 represents a new era in long-range cruising," said Richards. "It sets a benchmark for performance, efficiency, and comfort."The Grand Banks 62 boasts several notable advancements, starting with its sleek design and powerful performance. During initial sea trials, the yacht achieved a top speed of 30 knots and a high cruise speed of 27 knots. At a cruising speed of 20 knots, the total burn rate is 38 gallons per hour, demonstrating remarkable efficiency for its class. Its range of 2,000 nautical miles at 10 knots with a 10-percent reserve ensures reliability and versatility for extended voyages.Key features of the Grand Banks 62 include Twin Volvo D13 engines rated at 900 horsepower each, with optional upgrades available, incorporation of V-Warp Technology, which reduces fuel consumption by up to 70 percent compared to competitors. Enlarged starboard guest stateroom with an athwartships double bed, a utility area with a washer/dryer, and an en suite head. The amidships master stateroom provides ample natural light and ventilation, while the forward VIP stateroom features a queen berth and a dedicated head.Multiple interior accommodations plans can be tailored to owner preferences, ensuring personalization and comfort."The Palm Beach International Boat Show is the perfect venue to debut the Grand Banks 62," said Richards. "We invite all owners, media, and enthusiasts to visit our display at Ramp 8, Slip 224 to experience this groundbreaking yacht firsthand."With decades of experience and a relentless focus on innovation, Grand Banks Yachts continues to redefine luxury yachting with the introduction of the Grand Banks 62.Credits: Grand Banks Yachts
March 4, 2025