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.
Spanish shipyard Maxim Yachts returns to familiar shores as they participate in the Palma International Boat Show from April 30 to May 3. Making their debut at the event, the company showcases the Max 43 Comfort – a dynamic day cruiser capable of achieving speeds up to 45 knots. Designed by Alex Cherigny and engineered by Isonaval, this 13-meter model exemplifies speed and luxury combined.The Max 43 Comfort is powered by twin 440-horsepower Volvo Penta engines, ensuring swift and stable navigation. Its exterior layout is highly adaptable, featuring two foldable tables and four sofas, one of which comes with built-in refrigerators. The ergonomic helm station houses two double seats and a stylish carbon fiber console, outfitted with state-of-the-art marine technology, including dual 16-inch Garmin screens and 11 analog gauges.The onboard galley is fitted with a ceramic cooktop, sink, and two large refrigerators, with optional upgrades available such as additional refrigerators and an ice maker. Adjacent to the galley is a flexible dining area equipped with a double table and cozy side seating. Inside, the interiors, adorned with high-quality finishes, house a spacious double cabin capable of sleeping up to four guests. The cabin also boasts one of the tallest ceilings in its class, emphasizing both comfort and practicality.Established just last year, Maxim Yachts has quickly made waves in the industry, marking their presence at prestigious global events. Their participation in the Palma Boat Show signifies their commitment to growth and innovation, as they join approximately 300 exhibitors representing the best in maritime craftsmanship.Credits: Maxim Yachts
April 1, 2025
Turkish shipyard Numarine has introduced its newest superyacht, the 47MXP, marketed as a "Mediterranean Explorer." Despite its name, the vessel is engineered for worldwide exploration, merging the relaxed beach-club lifestyle with robust, long-range capabilities.Expanding on the acclaimed 45XP series, the 47MXP integrates a durable steel hull with a lightweight aluminum superstructure. Retaining the efficient hydrodynamics of its predecessor, the new model gains added length, increasing internal volume and enhancing exterior deck spaces.Renowned Italian studio Hot Lab, part of the Viken Group, orchestrated the 47MXP’s bespoke interiors. Known for their subtle yet sophisticated touch, Hot Lab infuses the yacht with a warm, elegant atmosphere. The layout encompasses up to six guest cabins, highlighted by a full-beam owner’s suite with a private terrace on the main deck.The 47MXP emphasizes alfresco enjoyment with numerous terraces and lounges spanning its four decks. Noteworthy is the aft deck, which now features a sizable infinity pool, converting the area into a high-end beach club setting. Additionally, the sundeck showcases a second pool, a fully stocked bar, and abundant seating for hosting events.Fitted with twin MAN V12 diesel engines, each generating 1,450hp, the 47MXP achieves a top speed of 16 knots. More importantly, she demonstrates exceptional endurance, capable of traversing over 6,000 nautical miles at a cruising speed of 9 knots perfect for transoceanic voyages.Numarine, a European high-performance motor-yacht shipyard headquartered in Istanbul, offers a range of yachts from 19 to 45 meters.Credits: Numarine
April 1, 2025
The initial unit of Cantiere delle Marche's (CdM) Deep Blue 115 series has commenced outfitting at their Ancona facility. Horacio Bozzo spearheaded the exterior design, envisioning it as a "compact gentleman's superyacht embodying a robust explorer spirit." Naval architecture and engineering were assigned to Axis Group Yacht Design. Meanwhile, the interiors exude understated sophistication and meticulous detailing, courtesy of Italian designer Giorgio M. Cassetta.According to Vasco Buonpensiere, co-founder and CEO of CdM, a prominent American client, known for valuing excellence, commissioned CdM to construct the Deep Blue 115, incorporating state-of-the-art technologies. Their aspirations have been amplified through a partnership with Döhle Yachts, culminating in a project that exemplifies industry leadership.The layout accommodates ten guests across five suites, including an owner's suite positioned at the bow of the main deck. Below deck, four additional guest cabins complement quarters for a seven-member crew.Key features aboard include a spacious galley, a central salon with operable sliding doors, and a retractable terrace adjacent to the dining area. Standout amenities encompass a generous aft swimming pool equipped with a storage tank for treated water during transit, along with a foredeck cinema. Videoworks engineered the integrated AV/IT infrastructure.Built upon a sturdy steel hull, the model achieves a gross tonnage of 299 GT. Propulsion is provided by twin Caterpillar C18 engines, each rated at 533 kW.Following its sale by IYC in 2024, the delivery to its American owner anticipated for 2026.CdM's story begins in 2010. The facilities cover an overall surface of 16˙000 square meters, including 7˙000 sq. m of workshops and 1˙000 sq. m of docks. Since 2015, the shipyard has been the world’s leading builder of explorer yachts. Based in Ancona, Cantiere delle Marche builds yachts from 26m to 43m in length.Credits: CdM
March 31, 2025
Pearl Yachts announced the grand unveiling of the new Pearl 63 at the upcoming Palma International Boat Show, set to take place from April 30th to May 3rd. This highly anticipated event highlights Pearl Yachts' continuous expansion of its renowned fleet, blending superior British craftsmanship with groundbreaking design. The Pearl 63, already celebrated for its innovative design and practicality, will take center stage alongside other esteemed models, including the Pearl 72, Pearl 82, and the flagship Pearl 95.Building on the success of its award-winning predecessor, the Pearl 62, the new Pearl 63 introduces a host of notable advancements. Tailored for discerning owners, this vessel delivers spacious accommodations, effortless handling, and an unparalleled ownership experience.Key Features IncludeEnhanced Aft Cockpit: Equipped with opening side balconies and dual high-low dining tables, this versatile space fosters a strong connection with the sea, making it ideal for entertaining or unwinding. The flip-backrest on the L-shaped sofa transforms the area into a seaview lounge.Revamped Saloon Layout: Now boasting a family-sized dining table, stylish seating options, and a chic chaise longue paired with multipurpose poufs, offering a more relaxed and functional setting.Flexible Tender Garage/Crew Cabin: Complete with a hydraulic swim platform, the tender garage can store either a Williams 285 jet tender or a Seadoo Spark Jet Ski. It can alternatively serve as a crew cabin, catering to diverse operational needs.Generous Guest Accommodations: Unmatched in the 60-foot class, the Pearl 63 sleeps eight guests across four opulent staterooms and three bathrooms. The full-beam master suite, accessed via a private staircase, features his-and-hers wardrobes, expansive hull windows, and a luxurious en-suite bathroom with a Corian sink and shower.High-Performance Engines: For those craving extra power, an optional upgrade to twin Volvo Penta IPS 1350 engines enables speeds of up to 33 knots.Kelly Hoppen Interior Design: Benefitting from fresh hull glazing, the bright interiors offer breathtaking views. Owners can choose between four distinct interior styles crafted by Kelly Hoppen Interiors – Indulgence, Luxury, Modern, and Monochrome – ensuring a personalized ambiance. The saloon is defined by generous glasswork, a well-appointed galley adjacent to the cockpit, and a comfortable lounge zone.Al Fresco Living Spaces: Wide side decks lead to a foredeck lounge with foldaway tables, adjustable sunbeds, and an optional Bedouin-style shade. The flybridge features a sleek hardtop (with an optional electrically-opening segment), a wet bar, barbecue station, and plentiful seating, ideal for sunbathing or hosting events.Advanced Technology: Powered by Volvo IPS propulsion, the Pearl 63 guarantees efficient performance and intuitive control through joystick steering, dynamic positioning, and user-friendly Garmin touchscreen displays. Proportional thrusters simplify docking, enabling confident manoeuvring even in confined marinas.Managing Director Iain Smallridge emphasizes, “The Pearl 63 exemplifies our ongoing pursuit of innovation and refinement. Every detail has been fine-tuned to maximize the owner’s enjoyment at sea, reflecting our dedication to pushing the boundaries of yacht design and usability.”Cenk Efe, Managing Director of Mallorca Marine Group, adds, “Presenting the Pearl 63 at the Palma International Boat Show is a privilege. This vessel encapsulates the sophisticated aesthetics and engineering prowess synonymous with Pearl Yachts, reinforcing our enduring collaboration and shared commitment to excellence.”At the Palma International Boat Show, attendees will have the unique chance to explore the entire Pearl Yachts collection, including the Pearl 63, Pearl 72, Pearl 82, and the majestic Pearl 95. Visitors can witness first-hand the craftsmanship and attention to detail that define the Pearl Yachts brand in the global yachting market.Pearl Yachts was founded in 1998 and has now become one of the UK’s most prominent shipyards. Every Pearl motor yacht is designed and built by experienced craftsmen. Pearl’s fleet consists of the new Pearl 62, the Pearl 80 and the Pearl 95. All newly launched Pearl Yachts are covered by a unique, comprehensive five-year warranty program.Credits: Pearl Yachts
March 31, 2025
In less than a year, this stunning, over-thirty-year-old 52-meter Benetti has been revived through a meticulous refit led by architect Tommaso Spadolini. Yacht Designer Giulia Grassi from the Supernova Design studio played a pivotal role, orchestrating the yacht's remarkable interior transformation. Extensive work encompassed a complete overhaul of the exterior profile, a redesign of common areas, replacement of specific steel plates on the hull, and a total engine rebuild. The project took place at IMS Shipyard in Toulon, France.Tommaso SpadoliniArchitect Tommaso Spadolini reflects on the journey: "The owner fell in love with this Benetti but envisioned refreshing it both technically and aesthetically – inside and out – while retaining its classic character, yet giving it a contemporary edge. Most importantly, he needed a yacht suitable for his large family." Thus began the transformation of the 1994 Benetti 52m, originally named Tommy, into the exclusive, modern Solafide.Main saloon What distinguishes this refit isn’t merely the outcome but the astounding speed of execution. From initial discussions in July 2023 to approvals by December, and relaunch by April 2024, the team pulled off an incredible feat. Tommaso Spadolini and Giulia Grassi collaborated seamlessly with IMS Shipyard to achieve every refit objective.Main saloonSpadolini’s focus centered on modernizing the yacht’s exterior and technological upgrades. "Starting with the original cream color, we switched to white, incorporating dark stripes and stainless-steel grilles for a sleek appearance," Spadolini explains. Key modifications include transforming the main deck’s aft tender storage into a versatile lounge area, installing hatches, and modifying railings to integrate retractable side terraces. They also developed a well-equipped sundeck forward of the helm, including awnings and improved accessibility.Owner's cabin Rebuilding the twin 16-cylinder Deutz engines (each delivering 2,400 hp) posed a major challenge, requiring deck dismantling for their removal. Structural enhancements involved replacing select steel plates on the hull and aluminum panels on the superstructure. The sundeck was reinforced to handle helicopter operations, fitted with movable furniture, and emblazoned with an 'H'-marked teak floor.Electrical systems, navigation aids, and connectivity were updated to match current standards, ensuring the yacht remained future-proof. The existing boat davits were retained for tender transport during extended trips.Upper deck Giulia Grassi faced the daunting task of balancing the yacht’s heritage with modern design innovations. "The owner sought increased seating capacity and better accommodation options," Grassi notes. To address these needs, they executed a comprehensive spatial reconfiguration, integrating custom-built furniture and rethinking partitions. For instance, the main deck dining area underwent a dramatic transformation, swapping built-in furnishings for a larger, family-friendly table. Outdoor zones benefited from tailored cushions and flexible furniture, significantly elevating comfort levels.The main deck was decluttered by removing curtains and bulky fittings, creating an airy atmosphere. Customized seating arrangements, including a sofa with hidden storage and adaptable side tables, ensured ample seating for everyone. The dining room was enlarged by relocating the partition, introducing a striking white onyx floor section beneath the table, flanked by a mood-lighting backlit wall. Thoughtful mirror placement ensures unobstructed sea views from any vantage point.The owner’s suite preserves its traditional charm while gaining subtle enhancements from prior improvements. The upper deck received substantial upgrades, converting the lounge into a multi-purpose guest cabin when not functioning as a media room. An additional VIP cabin was introduced, while the aft and flybridge areas were renovated with climate control and detachable furniture for helicopter landing compatibility.Sun deck"This Benetti 52m is now practically brand-new, boasting top speeds of 21 knots due to its streamlined, high-performance hull," Spadolini adds. "Despite modernization, we maintained a lightweight displacement below 500 tons – exactly 472 tons."Founded in 1873, Benetti is the oldest Italian shipyard specializing in luxury yachts. Benetti designs, builds and sells composite vessels from 29 to 44m and steel and aluminum boats from 37 to over 100m. The fleet consists of five categories: Class, Oasis, B.Yond, B.Now and Custom to meet all the needs of the market. Benetti belongs to the Azimut|Benetti Group, the largest privately owned luxury yachting group in the world.Credits: Benetti
March 31, 2025