The superyacht sector is, at its essence, a extremely small niche when one looks at absolute amounts, with barely 10,000 yachts over 24 meters in length. As a result, innovation in the sector requires drive and experience that only a few individuals in the world have been able to develop.
Building innovative yachts takes extensive, intimate knowledge of their use, only acquired at an owner's level, as well as large amounts of capital devoted to creating floating masterpieces. Yacht Harbour looks at some of the most inspiring billionaires from the superyacht space.
Bernard Arnault
Position: Chairman, LVMH
Net worth: $64 billion (2017)
Iconic in many ways, luxury conglomerate LVMH and its CEO, Bernard Arnault have long set a gold standard in the luxury world and yachting was no exception to this rule. In fact, Arnault's 101-meter yacht, Symphony is currently the largest Feadship ever built.
With a net worth currently valued at $64 billion by Forbes, Bernard Arnault's 33-year run shaping the luxury world through his Louis Vuitton Moet Henessy Group, took him to being the 2nd richest person in Europe and in the world's top 10 billionaires.
In yachting however, the 68 year-old Frenchmen is most well known for his involvement in the sector. His first major step into superyachts became the conversion of the 70-meter Amadeus into a luxury yacht from a research vessel in 2007.
Rebuilt at Jade Yachts in Taiwan, the transformation was overseen by Vripack to a design by Redmond Langton with Francois Zuretti creating the yacht's new interior. Accommodating up to 12 guests in a master suite spanning over the entire upper deck, a VIP suite on the main deck, and two guest and two twin cabins on the lower deck, she stretched over a total of five decks.
From a technical standpoint, the yacht is powered by twin Caterpillar engines letting the 70-meter yacht cruise for up to 16,400 nautical miles at a speed of 10.5 knots. In 2015, Arnault sold Amadeus, which was later renamed to Felix by its current owner.
Photo by Julien Hubert
Around the same time, Feadship delivered the 101-meter Symphony, the largest yacht it ever built. According to Marianne, Symphony was delivered to Maltese company, Sonata Yachting, a firm which LVMH disclosed was a fully owned subsidiary in its yearly report.
A common feature found across the two yachts are their golf tee located aft of the upper deck, which allows its guests to shoot specially designed, bio-degradable balls into the sea from the yacht. Designed by Tim Heywood, Symphony has a gross tonnage of near 3,000GT.
Photo by Julien Hubert
Arnault's interests in yachting however are not limited to his personal fleet. In 2008, LVMH led an acquisition of British yacht manufacturer, Princess Yachts from South African investor, Graham Beck in a transaction that amounted to just over €250 million. The deal then saw L Capital, a fund controlled by LVMH, gain a 70% controlling stake in Princess Yachts.
LVMH then continued its efforts to expand into yachting by acquiring Royal Van Lent, a shipyard part of Feadship, later that year in a deal that analysts put at around €400 million. The shipyard later went on to build the 101.5-meter Symphony and remains a part of LVMH's portfolio to this day.
Herb Chambers
Position: Chairman, Herb Chambers Companies
Net worth: $1,38 billion (2017)
Delivered in 2012 by Abeking & Rasmussen, the 60-meter Excellence V, one of the most voluminous yachts in her size, became her American's owner fifth superyacht. His fleet's next flagship, an 80-meter Abeking & Rasmussen is however still under construction.
Herb Chambers' first yacht became a 30ft Trojan fishing boat in 1970, he then upgraded to a 53ft Hatteras before starting his journey into the superyacht space with a 38.7-meter Feadship, Excellence. Launched in 1986, three years after Chambers sold his blooming copier sales business, A Copy, for $80 million, the yacht could reach 13.5 knots.
Later known as Golden Rule and last refitted in 2006, the yacht was sold by her new owners in 2011 at an asking price of $4.9 million. She was then renamed once again to Miss Iloilo in 2013.
Chambers next yachting project became an even larger Feadship, the 47.5-meter Excellence II launched in 1999. With an interior by Sam Sorgiovanni, the yacht had a beam of 8.9m and could reach a speed of 14.5 knots.
Later reportedly sold by Chambers to American businessman, Dennis M. Jones who renamed her to D'Natalin II, the yacht was then sold once again and renamed to Princess K. Now cruising under the name Princess Too, she was sold to her current owner in the summer of 2016 at an asking price of €15 million.
Launched this time by Abeking & Rasmussen in 2001, Excellence III became a 57-meter superyacht with an exterior by Donald Starkey designed with charter in mind. Praised for her comfortable seven cabin layout by guests, the yacht went on to have an inspiring charter record led by Chambers' long-time captain, Ray Shore.
Listed for sale in 2010 Excellence III was later sold in March 2012 asking $45,950,000. The popular charter yacht was then renamed to Dream following her sale and lengthened to 60-meters during her 2014 refit.
Chambers' subsequent project became a 78-meter Abeking & Rasmussen which was planned to take on the name Excellence IV. A few months into the build, Chambers received an offer to buy the yacht from a friend, which he decided to turn down.
Halfway through the build he however realised that such a project would prevent him from mooring in harbour such as Gustavia in St.Barts and Capri. When a Russian oligarch made another offer to buy the project at a profit for Chambers, the American businessman accepted. "I did well on that one." Chambers told Forbes. The yacht went on to become Eminence.
Following the sale, Chambers decided to take on another project at Abeking & Rasmussen building Excellence V, a 60-meter yacht with the interior volume and comfort of a 75-meter superyacht. Launched in 2011, she is now available for charter from €595,000 per week.
"There was a transition where it became a business for me" Chambers told Forbes on his superyacht projects, "I get more enjoyment out of building the boats than I do using them". Chambers's Excellence IV, a 28-meter Pershing launched in 2014, might be the only exception to this rule as he keeps it for his personal use. The yacht was however listed for sale and is now asking $8,400,000.
Chambers, now owner of the Herb Chambers Companies, the largest automotive dealership group in New England, USA with over $2.5 billion in revenue in 2014, might however be on his most ambitious yachting project yet. Indeed, the American billionaire has commissioned an 80-meter project currently under construction at Abeking & Rasmussen, which he says will be a cross between M/Y A and a more traditional yacht.
Dennis Washington
Position: Chairman, Washington Companies
Net worth: $5,9 billion (2017)
Washington became acquainted with boating relatively late, according to one of his recent interviews, he stepped on a boat for the very first time in 1979, when he was 45 years old. His connection with the sea was however immediate, "I just loved the sound of being out on the water and being so relaxed" he told Forbes. Soon after, he purchased his first boat, the 25.9-meter Wanigan III for $150,000. What sets apart Washington from most yacht owners is his interest in refitting yachts up to his high standards. A year and a half after the purchase of the Wanigan III, he began to rebuild it and sold it a couple of years later.
In 1992 he purchased Chieftain, a 105ft tug built in Glasgow in 1929 that had escorted British WW2 ships and had remained under the British flag for nearly 60 years. Washington had the yacht shipped back to Vancouver by his port captain, Fred Larsson, and started a lengthy process to create the most tastefully decorated tug afloat. Washington in fact even announced that the newly named St. Eval would remain in the Washington family for perpetuity. St. Eval can now often be found moored in Washington's private marina in Vancouver.
Also docked in Vancouver is the 36.4-meter Abeking & Rasmussen, Impromptu, which Washington purchased from Boeing. Before serving as Boeing's corporate yacht as Daedalus, Impromptu was owned by beer magnate, August Busch. After learning that Boeing was looking to sell, he purchased and refitted the yacht, which he still owns to this day.
The first yacht to be named Attessa became yet another one of Washington's rebuild projects. After purchasing the 130ft Yecats built by Kong & Halvorsen in 1984, Washington lengthened the yacht to 142ft and renamed it to Attessa. The yacht later appeared in the movie "Indecent Proposal". It was then sold to George Argyros and renamed to Huntress before catching fire and sinking off the coast of Greece in 1998.
Washington's second Attessa became a Feadship launched in 1988 as Impromptu with a length of 43.4-meters. Following Washington buying the yacht in the 1990s, the yacht was extended by over 5 meters and renamed to Attessa II. The yacht was later reportedly sold to American billionaire, Wayne Huizenga who renamed her to Floridian. She then went through several changes of ownership until her current owners renamed the yacht to Mysorah and extensively refitted her once again.
Another vessel that is still part Washington's fleet to this day is Attessa III. Built by Feadship in 1998 as Lady Aviva for Joe Lewis, the 62-meter yacht caught fire in May 2000 in the Red Sea. With the owner and insurance company looking to get rid of it, Washington bought the superyacht and, after a 36-month long refit process at the Feadship De Vries shipyard, she reemerged as the fully rebuilt and extended 68m Attessa III. Completely transformed, Attessa III featured the largest composite extension in yachting history. Washington still owns the yacht to this day and keeps her on America's west coast.
Washington's most ambitious project however began just under two years later after Attessa III's launch. Having become aware that Taiwanese shipping billionaire, Chang Yung Fa was looking to sell his 91-meter Evergreen, Washington flew out to Taiwan to inspect the hull in 2007. "Chairman Chang built the boat like a warship, but it was not attractive structurally. I thought it would be a great project." he told Forbes. The American billionaire bought the yacht and sailed it to his Vancouver facility for a refit.
The refit process involved a new superstructure shape, interior layout, helipad and tender garage, which resulted in a completely new vessel. Lengthened by almost 10 meters, Attessa IV became the 24th largest in the world at the time of her relaunch in 2010. Amongst her standout features are a spa on the lower deck, a private cinema, a helipad and a multi-purpose room on the yacht's sundeck with a Chihuly chandelier under a glass dome.
Westport Yachts has announced the launch of its latest model, the New 117 35m motor yacht. Currently in the midst of extensive sea trials, this stunning vessel is scheduled to ship to Florida in December, with an official debut planned for the 2025 Palm Beach International Boat Show.The New 117 signifies a remarkable achievement in Westport’s legacy of creating timeless yachts, showcasing a commitment to quality engineering and luxurious design. Built to the stringent standards of the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS), it carries the A1 Yachting Service AMS class notation as outlined in the ABS Guide for Building and Classing Yachts.This new model reflects Westport’s confidence in the growing demand for high-performance vessels. The yacht features a perfect blend of sophistication, style, and seaworthiness, promising an exquisite yachting experience for both owners and guests.Engineered for stellar performance, the Westport 117 boasts an innovative hull design that enhances its capabilities while integrating a state-of-the-art Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) System. This advanced technology underscores Westport’s commitment to environmental stewardship, significantly reducing emissions and fostering a cleaner, more sustainable yachting experience. “We are thrilled to announce the launch of this new model,” stated Daryl Wakefield, President of Westport Yachts. “Our goal at Westport is to exceed expectations with every yacht we create, and this vessel is no exception.”“As an industry leader, Westport Yachts continues to redefine luxury standards. The New 117 exemplifies our dedication to innovation, sustainability, and providing unmatched experiences for our esteemed clientele.”The largest builder in North America, Westport was founded in 1964. Westport Yachts has built and launched a wide variety of vessels, from commercial fishing boats and fast passenger ferries to luxurious motor yachts. Today Westport builds composite motor yachts.Credits: Westport
November 19, 2024
The 16th edition of the RORC Caribbean 600 approaches, set to kick off on February 24, 2025, from the stunning shores of Antigua. Early entries in the competitive IRC Zero class promise a thrilling showdown between some of the world's most advanced offshore racing yachts. Before the iconic '600, the RORC Nelson’s Cup Series is back for its third edition, now standing as a premier event featuring an enticing mix of maxi yachts and local Corinthian teams.In the 2024 Caribbean 600, Niklas Zennström’s Carkeek 52, Rán (SWE), snatched victory after a nail-biting nearly 63 hours of racing. The talented crew overcame intense competition to win the IRC Zero Class by a mere three minutes following time corrections. This narrow triumph not only secured Rán a spot as second overall but also set high expectations for the upcoming race. Team Rán’s Tim Powell expressed his awareness of the challenges that lie ahead:“The competition is fierce, and many teams are eager to topple us. We’ve got a target on our back. Rán will compete in the Nelson’s Cup Series to refine our skills before the Caribbean 600,” Powell stated, emphasizing the importance of pre-race preparation. He also highlighted ongoing development: “These boats continuously evolve, particularly in sail design, and we’re confident but always looking to make those critical adjustments.”The team boasts Olympian and America’s Cup sailor Andy Hemmings, who adds invaluable experience to the lineup alongside promising talents like Bex Gmuer Hornell from New Zealand and newbie Will Williamson from Southampton.The competition promises to be fierce in IRC Zero, especially with Jon Desmond's new PAC52, Final Final (USA), joining the fray, particularly noteworthy for its impressive track record, including victories in the RORC Transatlantic Race and the Rolex Middle Sea Race. Desmond comments on his transition to the new boat: “With a larger, faster yacht, we anticipate a stronger showing in the 600—and potentially a fresh strategy as we navigate challenging waters.”Alongside Rán, another formidable entry is Andrew Berdon’s TP52, Summer Storm (USA), formerly known as Outsider, returning to the Caribbean with a fresh set of sails. Experienced Canadian sailor Richard Clarke is among the crew, who reflected on the unpredictable nature of the race: “It may seem straightforward with trade winds, but this race always surprises, making weather strategies crucial.”Complementing the offshore racing, the RORC Nelson’s Cup Series presents a fantastic opportunity for sailors not competing in the Caribbean 600 to participate in exhilarating inshore races, including the 360° Round Antigua Race. The series welcomes all IRC-rated boats and aims to celebrate Caribbean racing culture while fostering camaraderie among local and international crews.With low entry fees and relaxed social events at Antigua Yacht Club, the Nelson’s Cup Series sets the stage for exceptional racing and an unforgettable experience for all participants ahead of the highly anticipated RORC Caribbean 600.Credit: Royal Ocean Racing Club
November 19, 2024
Sacs Tecnorib, a prominent leader in the Maxi-Rib sector and a significant figure in the Italian yachting market, is excited to announce a strategic partnership with NUO, an investment holding company backed by distinguished international families. This collaboration marks a crucial step in Sacs Tecnorib's journey of consolidation, expansion, and development.Since its formation in 2021 through the merger of Sacs and Tecnorib, the Group has seen remarkable success, reporting a production value exceeding €70 million in the last financial year, with more than 70% of its output directed to export markets. The company has achieved an impressive compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 25% over the past three years, fueled by its growing international presence and a diversified product lineup that includes the Strider and Rebel ranges, as well as licensed Pirelli Speedboats.This partnership, built on a shared vision and fundamental values, seeks to amalgamate Sacs Tecnorib’s expertise with NUO’s resources, reinforcing the Group’s leadership within the European market. The collaboration will further facilitate the Group’s global strategy, particularly in the United States, and may open avenues for growth through the acquisition of complementary brands.As part of this agreement, which entails the sale of a minority stake by existing shareholders, Matteo Magni will maintain majority control of the company. The governance structure will remain stable, with founding partners Matteo Magni and Giovanni De Bonis continuing in their leadership roles. Magni will take on the position of CEO in addition to his current role as President.“We are excited to announce this partnership, which we believe will add substantial value and enhance our competitiveness globally,” stated Matteo Magni, President and CEO of Sacs Tecnorib. “This milestone is a testament to the passion and commitment we have invested in building a successful company, as illustrated by our ability to attract esteemed investors like NUO to join us on this journey. Together, we will seize new opportunities, bolster our innovation capabilities, and remain dedicated to delivering excellence to our customers while driving significant growth and steering the industry forward.”Tommaso Paoli, CEO of NUO, remarked: “We are privileged to partner with Matteo and Giovanni in this ambitious initiative to position Sacs Tecnorib as a global leader. This collaboration underscores our dedication to investing in companies with robust growth potential and visionary leadership. Matteo’s clarity of vision, determination, and cooperative spirit have truly impressed us. NUO will utilize its expertise and network to bolster the company’s international expansion, governance, and M&A activities, empowering the team to achieve their long-term goals.”The transaction was facilitated by Clearwater, serving as M&A advisor to SacsTecnorib. Legal negotiations were conducted with support from DLMS for Sacs Tecnorib and Chiomenti for NUO. Additional due diligence was carried out by EY (financial) and Gitti and Partners (tax).Sacs Tecnorib Spa was established in 2021 from the union between TecnoRib srl and Sacs srl. Sacs tecnorib spa is the official licensee of Pirelli brand inflatable boatsCredits: Sacs Tecnorib Spa
November 19, 2024
Northrop & Johnson presents Maoria, a 2021 Numarine 26XP, now available for sale. Listed by esteemed Yacht Brokers Ali Tanir and Sean Doyle, Maoria is priced at EUR4,400,000 and is currently located in the picturesque South of France. This remarkable vessel is the first Numarine 26XP to receive charter class certification and features an exquisite sauna on the lower deck, making it the perfect choice for discerning charter guests.Designed for global cruising with elegance, Maoria boasts sleek, modern lines and generous outdoor spaces. The aft deck invites relaxation with a comfortable lounge area, complete with adjustable tables and seating for eight, ideal for alfresco dining or enjoying cocktails under the stars. Inside, the main saloon is bathed in natural light thanks to its floor-to-ceiling windows that offer panoramic views. The interior includes a spacious master cabin with a walk-in wardrobe, as well as two additional guest staterooms, both featuring ensuite bathrooms, and stylish furnishings throughout.The sundeck serves as a premier entertaining space, featuring a dining table for eight, barbecue, sunbeds, and a fully stocked bar. For those seeking a private retreat, the lower deck sauna and shower provide the perfect respite after a day of adventure. Performance-wise, Maoria impresses with a top speed of 14 knots and a cruising range of up to 2,500 nautical miles, complemented by zero-speed stabilizers for enhanced comfort while anchored or cruising.Equipped with an array of water toys – including a 5m tender, Jet Ski, and snorkeling gear – Maoria opens up a world of exciting possibilities for exploration. Numarine, a European high-performance motor-yacht shipyard headquartered in Istanbul, offers a range of yachts from 19 to 45 meters.Credits: Northrop and Johnson
November 18, 2024
Sunreef Yachts has unveiled the first look at the interiors of its groundbreaking hybrid catamaran, the Ultima 111, which was introduced just two months ago. New images released by the luxury boat manufacturer showcase the yacht’s serene and sophisticated interior features, including the stunning owner's stateroom and the expansive main saloon.The Ultima 111, measuring 36.25 meters, is a collaborative design effort between Sunreef and renowned Dutch design firm Phathom Studio, focusing on both interior and exterior aesthetics. This catamaran made its debut at the Cannes Yachting Festival in September and is set to be constructed at Sunreef's cutting-edge facility in Ras al-Khaimah, UAE. It will serve as the flagship of Sunreef's Ultima line, known for its blend of performance, style, and sustainability.Incorporating modern design elements, the yacht’s interior is crafted in two distinct palettes. The exterior features subtle automotive influences with a sleek grey hull and black glass framework. Inside, the design philosophy revolves around ‘gentle boldness,’ merging vibrant design with calming atmospheres. This approach juxtaposes dynamic features with soft, organic elements, creating spaces that are both energizing and tranquil.Material choices prioritize durability and environmental sustainability, with an emphasis on natural resources that align with a circular economy. The interior features a sophisticated mix of earth-toned shades and textures, enhancing the living experience through warmth and biophilic elements.“We understand our market and have essentially shaped the concept of luxury catamarans,” said Francis Lapp, Sunreef's founder and president. “Working with Phathom’s talented team allows us to introduce innovative ideas while staying true to our brand's essence, and we anticipate the Ultima 111 will resonate with a wide audience.”Phathom's interior design incorporates warm, tactile elements alongside organic curves that promote a sense of wellbeing, making the living spaces both modern and inviting.The Ultima 111 featuring all guest accommodations above the hulls for enhanced space and connection to the sea through expansive panoramic windows. The owner’s cabin boasts private access to a foredeck terrace suspended between the hulls.The main saloon impresses with high ceilings and abundant glass, while sliding doors open to a dynamic indoor-outdoor dining space, complemented by fold-down balconies. A sophisticated marble bar and inviting sofas complete the inviting atmosphere.The vessel also includes an ample upper deck lounge encased in glass, promoting fluidity between inside and out, and featuring an open-concept atrium staircase that enhances connectivity throughout the yacht. Enhanced privacy and efficiency are ensured with a thoughtfully designed crew flow.In addition to these features, Sunreef has announced the Ultima 111 will come with hybrid propulsion options – an innovative choice in the 30-40 meter range. The superstructure’s horizontal surfaces can house high-performance solar panels capable of generating sufficient power to support the yacht’s systems silently through the night.The exceptional beach club at the stern, augmented by fold-down wings, significantly increases space for relaxation, while a concealed drive-in garage accommodates a tender up to 5.5 meters in length – ensuring a clean aesthetic when not in use. Guests can also enjoy a lavish glass-walled hot tub with sun pads, perfect for soaking in stunning views.Sunreef recognizes its environmental responsibility and has integrated sustainable practices throughout the yacht, including the use of recycled materials to enhance strength while reducing weight. Options for renewable fibres and recyclable materials will feature within the yacht’s structure, ensuring a commitment to ecological consciousness."The Ultima 111, enhanced by its captivating interior, retains all the attributes associated with Sunreef yachts – efficiency, ample space, and luxurious comfort with minimal energy use,” Lapp concluded, highlighting the unique essence of their catamarans.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
November 18, 2024