Following his election as president of the United States, Donald Trump, valued at $3,1 billion by Forbes himself, has appointed what has historically become the wealthiest cabinet ever in existence in the United States. Whilst their effect on politics and policy is the subject of many international debates, their interests in yachting tend to be less talked about but remain no less fascinating.
In his former life as a billionaire businessman, Trump not only owned an 86m superyacht and owned a shipyard for a brief period of time, he also ordered the world's largest yacht, although it was never completed. Meanwhile, US Secretary of Education, Betsy DeVos, with a net worth estimated at $1,5 billion, and her family have been linked to no less than 13 yachts over the years.
In 1980, the late Saudi businessman and arms dealer, Adnan Khashoggi took delivery of the 86 meter (282 ft) Nabila. Built by Benetti in Italy, she became the 8th largest yacht in the world and appeared in the 1983 James Bond movie, Never Say Never Again.
When Khashoggi, however, ran into financial problems, the Sultan of Brunei took possession of the yacht to cover one of his loans. The Sultan quickly flipped the yacht to Donald Trump for a reported $29 million in 1987. In an interview in 1988, Trump said he received a $1 million discount for agreeing to change the name from Nabila, Khashoggi's daughter.
Khashoggi probably spent $200 million building this yacht, probably the best yacht ever built. I purchased it for a business. I use it for my hotels. I use it for a lot of different charities.
After acquiring Nabila, Trump renamed the yacht to Trump Princess and had it refitted by Holland-based, Amels for a near $10 million according to the LA Times. The H on the helipad was also changed to a T to stand for Trump.
Spread into over 100 separate areas over five decks, Nabila was without a doubt one of the most complex yachts of her time. With luxurious materials including onyx used for her interior, the yacht was also ahead of her time from a technological standpoint. Remote controls were installs next to the bed for shades, room service, and the entertainment center.
Amongst the yacht's main feature was a hair salon with 3 separate chairs, a sauna, a private elevator for the owner, one for guests and one for the crew, a 2.4-meter in diameter spa pool with a waterjet behind bulletproof glass. Whilst still owned by Khashoggi, many arms deals were signed onboard the yacht.
In June 1989, Donald Trump announced that he would build a larger yacht, "something in excess of 400 feet long, closer to 500 feet" as he told Newsday and that he was accepting bids from yacht builders for this project. Amels, then owned by a group of 4 British investors, secured the deal to develop the 128-meter Trump Princess II according to NRC.
In May 1990, it was announced that Trump bought Amels altogether. At a press conference in Makkum in 1990, Jeff Walker, VP of Trump's investment empire, denied that the shipyard was sold due to the previous owner's financial difficulties, which some have said, resulted from Trump canceling the construction of the Trump Princess II.
In September 1990, two months after the acquisition, Trump sold Amels to American businessman, Peter Kutell according to Deseret News due to financial problems. At the same time, the Trump Princess was put up for sale and all work on the Trump Princess II stopped. In 1991, Trump Princess was sold to Prince Al-Waleed for $19 million who renamed the yacht to Kingdom 5KR.
The superstructure for Trump Princess II allegedly remained at the Amels Makkum facility until summer 2001 when it was eventually removed. According to sources familiar with the matter, the superstructure is still parked at the Makkum facility, now owned by Feadship De Vries and reportedly sometimes used as a bike parking space.
Although Trump never came back to yacht ownership, other members of his cabinet remained involved in the space to this day. Betsy DeVos, US Secretary of Education, and her husband have a combined net worth valued at $5,1 billion. Amongst their long list of assets are no less than 10 yachts and reportedly an interest in the shipyard that built them.
Delivered in 2008 by US shipyard, Westport, Seaquest measures 50 meters (162 ft) and was designed by Donald Starkey. Reaching a top speed of 24 knots, she is part of the Westport 164 series. Interestingly, she's also not the only Westport 164 linked to the DeVos family as the 50-meter Legacy is also reportedly owned by the family.
Delivered in 2011, Legacy is a slightly updated version of the Seaquest. According to the media, the DeVos family has a solid preference for Westport yachts, having reportedly owned several of them in the past years. In fact, the family may even have acquired a stake in the US yacht manufacturer according to SYF.
Amongst the Westports linked to the DeVos is a Westport 112 from 2003 and a Westport 130 from 2005. Their fleet also includes an 85ft Pacific Mariner ( a brand owned by Westport) called Sun Quest. Additionally, an 80ft Hatteras called Kitsune can also be found in their fleet according to the media.
Although the DeVos fleet may already sound expansive as it is now, the family hasn't always been buying Westports and went through a number of other yacht shipyards as well. One of these superyachts was the 53-meter sailing yacht Independence, delivered by Italian shipyard, Perini Navi in 1998.
The yacht has since been sold, renamed to Jasali II and made available for charter from €138,600 per week. Accommodating up to 10 guests in 5 cabins, she stretches over a beam of 11.4m and can cruise at up to 12 knots.
Prior to their long run with Westport, the DeVos have reportedly owned no less than five Feadships according to SYF, all of which have been named Enterprise. The first to qualify as a superyacht would become Enterprise II, a 116ft Feadship delivered in 1970 now known as Utopia II.
Although from a different era and with different standards, in the 1970s, Utopia II was a true superyacht for its time. Amongst her classical feature are a round aft with an open top deck, partly used to store its tenders. 10 years following her delivery, a new Enterprise was built by Feadship, this time measuring 131ft.
Now known as Seagull of Cayman following changes of ownership, she features several enhancements over the previous Enterprise. The most noticeable of these is a dedicated sundeck, an upper deck skylounge and a larger main salon aft of the main deck. Several weeks ago she was put again on the market at an asking price of €5,900,000.
Yet another improvement on Enterprise III, the 149ft Enterprise IV was also built by Feadship in 1985. Through the Enterprise line can be seen the growth of a niche industry into the superyacht sector it is today. Now known as Explora, the yacht features larger windows, a sleeker line and a swimming platform aft of the yacht, all of which weren't found on classical yachts.
The last Enterprise to be built was delivered by Feadship in 1993 and is today known as Chantal Ma Vie. Measuring 55-meters (179 ft) in length, she already was a good representation of the modern superyacht, featuring a sleek line, large sundeck, expansive lounges, spacious cabins, a swimming platform and purpose-built tenders. In 2010, she was sold at an asking price of $15,9 million to her current owner.
Although their effect on US policy can be polarising and debated throughout the world, the effect that Trump and member of his administration have had on yachting throughout the past decades has undoubtedly played an important role in growing the market to the point where it is today.
Evo Yachts once again makes waves in the industry by taking on the world’s elite superyacht manufacturers with its latest creation, the Evo R9. This groundbreaking 30-metre aluminium superyacht places the owner at the heart of the design process and boasts a range of impressive features, all while building on the brand's established reputation for innovation.Designed to be highly customizable, the Evo R9 aims to redefine standards within the superyacht sector and represents a significant milestone in the evolution of the Evo Yachts brand. With enhanced customisation options and exhilarating performance, this exceptional vessel promises more surprises beyond its key highlights.This new addition to Evo Yachts' lineup showcases the shipyard's commitment to progress through innovation, venturing into competition with Italy and Northern Europe's leading figures in the global superyacht arena. The choice of an aluminium hull, coupled with a carbon fibre superstructure, aligns with the brand’s design philosophy, which emphasizes experimentation with materials and a focus on environmental sustainability.The yacht’s design, crafted by Valerio Rivellini in collaboration with Evo's technical team, features a striking superstructure enveloped in expansive glass surfaces, offering various layout options to cater to the diverse needs of potential owners. Clients will be able to engage in the design journey, witnessing their dream yacht materialize.The Evo R9 can comfortably host six to eight guests, alongside four crew members, ensuring privacy and versatility with multiple possible configurations.A standout aspect of the Evo R9 is its advanced propulsion system, boasting the option of two or three 2,200 HP engines, enabling the superyacht to reach top speeds between 50 and 58 knots and cruising at 40 to 44 knots.Designed for discerning owners who seek a bespoke experience coupled with high performance, the Evo R9 maintains the brand’s hallmark of transformability. Notably, it features sophisticated hull sides that open up, and a versatile stern transformer, resulting in a superyacht that is both innovative and distinctly aligned with Evo Yachts’ identity.The Evo Yachts shipyard is based near Naples. She was born in 2014 from a fortunate encounter between Blu Emme Yachts and the Neapolitan yacht designer Valerio Rivellini. The heart and entrepreneurship that kick-started EVO originated from Blu Emme Yachts, a luxury yachts refitting company. Blu Emme was created in 2013 by the Mercuri brothers, a family whose entrepreneurial experience spans different industries.Credits: Evo Yachts
November 26, 2024
Ferretti Yachts has officially launched the new 670 flybridge model, showcasing the brand's ongoing evolution in creating the ideal balance of comfort, livability, and exquisite design.This significant restyling features a host of exclusive attributes, including a sleek new exterior design, a revamped hardtop, and stunning interiors crafted by Ideaeitalia. Drawing on the success of its predecessor, celebrated during Ferretti Yachts’ 50th anniversary, the all-new Ferretti Yachts 670 marks a complete overhaul of the yacht while retaining key characteristics.Making its debut at the Cannes Yachting Festival 2024, the Ferretti Yachts 670 is 20.24 meters long with a maximum beam of 5.38 meters. The design is a collaborative effort between the Product Strategy Committee, led by Piero Ferrari, and the Ferretti Group Engineering Department, with exterior designed by the Ferretti Group alongside architect Filippo Salvetti and interiors by Ideaeitalia.The new model continues to prioritize generous volumes and bright interiors while introducing refined new exterior styling and enhanced seating and storage options.Notable features include a main deck helm station with a pillar-less windshield for exceptional visibility and comfortable pilot chairs from Poltrona Frau. The dinette layout has also been optimized for better ergonomics in the foredeck area. Down below, the redesigned doors and passageways improve accessibility, offering unparalleled space and comfort.On the flybridge, significant improvements include an expanded dining area with enhanced seating comfort and an ample stern sunpad. The hardtop has been elegantly redesigned with more fluid lines, now boasting an opening central section.The Ferretti Yachts 670 boasts nearly 20 m² of exterior space aft, perfect for al-fresco dining with comfortable seating and easy water access. The transom features spacious storage compartments for an organized environment, along with a tender lift capable of accommodating a 3.45 m tender.Forward, the outdoor living area covers about 11 m² and can be entirely shaded by a bimini top. It features three large sofas and optional tables that convert for additional relaxation space. The sea-facing seating also cleverly incorporates life rafts and storage.The flybridge mirrors the first version’s layout, with enhanced dining seating and a spacious sunpad at the stern. The central area includes a fully-equipped cabinet and a C-shaped sofa with a dining table. A second helm station offers easy access, accompanied by an expansive sunpad. An electric bimini top is available as an alternative to the redesigned hardtop.Internally, the yacht presents redesigned spaces conceived by Ideaeitalia. A sliding glass door from the cockpit leads to a main deck lounge featuring two large sofas with a central coffee table. Entertainment is elevated with a retractable TV hidden behind the sofa.The galley has been improved for functionality and flows seamlessly into the dining area, creating an expansive open space with ample seating. The helm station includes integrated Naviop-Simrad instrumentation and boasts a pillar-less windshield for optimal navigation visibility.A remarkable owner’s suite, measuring 18 m², is situated in the mid-section, complete with a private study, central bed, walk-in wardrobe, and en-suite bathroom. The vessel also offers a double cabin and a VIP cabin in the bow, both featuring ensuite bathrooms.For flexibility, a four-cabin layout is available, replacing the owner's study with an additional smaller cabin. A dedicated crew cabin with a bathroom is located at the rear of the lower deck, with private access to the cockpit.Two distinctive interior styles are offered – Classic, featuring warm earthy tones, and Contemporary, showcasing vibrant woods and fabrics inspired by the sea.The Ferretti Yachts 670 is powered by standard twin 1,000 MHP MAN V8 engines, enabling a top speed of 28 knots and a cruising speed of 25 knots. There is also an option for more powerful 1,200 MHP MAN V8 engines, providing a maximum speed of 32 knots and a cruising speed of 28 knots.For added stability at anchor and during cruising, the yacht can be outfitted with a stability package featuring two Seakeeper NG6 gyroscopic stabilizers, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience on the water.The Ferretti Group, led by Chief Executive Officer Alberto Galassi, is now one of the world’s leaders in the construction and sale of luxury yachts and pleasure vessels, with a unique portfolio of brands: Ferretti Yachts, Riva, Pershing, Itama, Mochi Craft, CRN, Custom Line and Wally.Credit: Ferretti Group
November 26, 2024
Columbus Yachts announces the sale of its inaugural 47-meter Crossover vessel, with an esteemed European client set to receive the yacht in 2027. This groundbreaking model seamlessly fuses contemporary design with practicality, creating a luxurious yet functional maritime experience.The Columbus Crossover 47 boasts a robust construction of steel and aluminum superstructures, measuring a maximum beam of 8.60 meters and a draft of 3 meters. Renowned design firm Hydro Tec has crafted the yacht's striking exterior lines, collaborating closely with the shipyard for naval engineering, while the interiors are the imaginative work of Hot Lab.This yacht is built on a successful naval platform and has already inspired another 42-meter model currently under construction. The Crossover 47 exemplifies versatility and functionality, designed to optimize onboard comfort and enhance every area.Starting from the stern, the boat features a spacious platform that can accommodate a tender weighing up to 3,000 kg. This area transforms into a relaxation oasis complete with a jacuzzi, sunbathing space, and direct access to the sea, enhanced by folding gunwales that expand usable space and provide unobstructed views of the surroundings. The generous sun deck, beautifully sheltered by a substantial hardtop, further illustrates the Crossover 47's adaptability to the desires of its owner and guests.The vessel's exterior is accented with bold, modern contours, showcasing taut surfaces and dynamic shapes, particularly concentrated in the bow area – reminiscent of explorer yachts. Its displacement hull features a bulbous bow and flat, forward sections.In terms of versatility, the cockpit is designed to accommodate both a substantial tender with a built-in crane at the upper deck's aft, as well as a swimming pool complemented by social and relaxation zones.On the main deck, the interiors reveal a spacious lounge capable of seating up to 12, complemented by a pantry and a well-equipped professional galley as the layout extends toward the bow. Below deck, the accommodation offers a total of four cabins – two double and two twin (with twin beds and a pullman bed) – alongside a luxurious master cabin on the main deck that features a central bed, wardrobe, vanity desk, office space, and a double bathroom with a central shower.The upper deck includes a circular outdoor dining table for six, expandable to seat ten, and features an inviting lounge and entertainment area alongside the helm station at the bow. The sun deck is designed for relaxation, featuring ample sunbathing space, a large bar, and a second swimming pool.The crew of nine is accommodated in four double cabins located below deck, with the captain's cabin conveniently situated on the upper deck near the control area.Powering the Columbus Crossover 47 are two Caterpillar C32 engines, each generating 970 kW and allowing for a maximum speed exceeding 15 knots, with a cruising speed of 12 knots. With a range of over 5,000 nautical miles at an economical speed of 10 knots, the yacht features fuel tanks with a capacity of approximately 60 cubic meters. Freshwater needs are met by two desalinators capable of producing around 8.6 cubic meters per day, filling a total freshwater capacity of about 8.5 cubic meters. Additionally, the vessel is equipped with two pairs of stabilizers that function in both underway and zero-speed conditions, ensuring optimal comfort on the water.Columbus Yachts was established in 2008. In early 2019, the shipyard launched the new flagship Columbus Classic 80m M/Y Dragon, which joins in the Columbus star-studded fleet with the award-winning Sport Hybrid 40 Divine, the 57m M/Y Taiba and the 40m M/Y Eleonora III. The Columbus range offers four different lines: Sport, Classic, Crossover and Custom for unique projects. Currently, Palumbo Superyachts comprises a representative office in Monaco and a logistics network of five shipyards in the Mediterranean (Ancona, Malta, Marseille, Naples and Savona), operating under just as many world-renowned brand names: ISA Yachts, Columbus Yachts, Mondomarine, Extra Yachts and Palumbo SY Refit.Credits: Columbus Yachts
November 25, 2024
The renowned Italian design studio Pininfarina has introduced an impressive new superyacht concept named Kairos 80, measuring 80 meters. This remarkable vessel is part of Oceanco’s Simply Custom collection, designed to streamline the commissioning process by utilizing a proven naval platform developed by Lateral Naval Architects.Originally adapted from a previous 90-meter collaboration between Pininfarina and Oceanco in 2021, Kairos 80 presents a visually striking exterior with sharp, angular lines, creating a unique silhouette on the water. Designer Daniele Mazzon describes the concept as “a peaceful oasis in which to relax and enjoy time on your own terms.”A standout feature of Kairos 80 is its “360-degree” design philosophy, which aims to foster a connection with the ocean below, the sky above, and the companions onboard. This design intent is evident in the yacht’s unconventional shape, with each deck showcasing distinctive contours and sleek, darkened windows that extend along the structure’s length.While details of the interior remain largely under wraps, preliminary sketches suggest a bright, open-plan space characterized by expansive windows that welcome abundant natural light.Key features onboard the Kairos 80 include an aft helipad, a stylish bar, and a hot tub situated at the front of the sundeck. Additionally, a spacious beach club with a large swimming pool is planned for the stern, complemented by sunpads and loungers in the outdoor areas. Mazzon emphasizes that “the owner and their guests are at the epicentre of the onboard experience, and the surrounding space.”All yachts within the Simply Custom range will incorporate a cutting-edge, all-electric propulsion and energy architecture system, underscoring the commitment to sustainability in luxury cruising.Credits: Pininfarina
November 25, 2024
Wally has unveiled its latest marvel, the wallywhy100, making a splash at the Cannes Yachting Festival 2024. This new 21-meter yacht marks an exciting entry into the expanded wallywhy range, which has transformed the sub-24m yacht market, following in the footsteps of the wallywhy150 and the iconic wallywhy200.The creative minds behind Wally, led by Founder and Chief Designer Luca Bassani, have focused on maximizing volume over mere speed. The wallywhy100 boasts a wide hull and sleek bow, resulting in a spacious onboard experience for those who cherish the sea, combining capability with enjoyment.Its single-level layout showcases an impressive glass superstructure, featuring open living areas and a generous sea terrace. This design fosters a seamless link between indoors and outdoors, allowing guests to transition effortlessly from the saloon to various decks and the water beyond.Despite its slightly smaller dimensions compared to its larger counterparts, the wallywhy100 does not compromise on space, boasting a substantial beam of 5.73 meters. This design enhances stability and creates an interior volume that rivals larger yachts, a hallmark of Wally's pioneering approach.Life aboard the wallywhy100 is all about closeness to the water, surrounded by natural light. The glass superstructure spans over a large dining table and plush seating, offering 360-degree views of the surrounding seascape. There are also ample sunbeds, situated beneath the hardtop and in cozy spots at the bow.Aft, three gentle steps lead to a spacious bathing platform, further enhanced by fold-down wings that significantly expand the space. The aft deck transforms into a dazzling terrace over the water, complete with a hydraulic hi-lo platform for launching water toys and easy access to the dock or sea via a convenient swim ladder.The interior design, curated by Vallicelli Design Studio, harmonizes carbon fiber with exquisite wooden finishes and subtle lighting, creating a sleek yet relaxing environment that mirrors Wally’s exterior aesthetics.Descend into the lower deck, where two staircases provide access to both crew accommodations and guest cabins. The owner's cabin, located amidships, offers a luxurious king-size bed and dramatic views through large hull windows. The en-suite bathroom features a smart glass wall that transforms for privacy with the push of a button.Two additional guest cabins, each with en-suite facilities, enhance the yacht's appeal, accompanied by a dedicated crew area.Powering the wallywhy100 is a pair of Volvo Penta IPS1350 engines, delivering a top speed of 27 knots and a cruising speed of 24 knots, with an impressive cruising range of 340 nautical miles.The Ferretti Group, led by Chief Executive Officer Alberto Galassi, is now one of the world’s leaders in the construction and sale of luxury yachts and pleasure vessels, with a unique portfolio of brands: Ferretti Yachts, Riva, Pershing, Itama, Mochi Craft, CRN, Custom Line and Wally.Credit: Ferretti Group
November 25, 2024