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.
Excellence V
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.
Excellence I
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.
Princess Too
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.
Dream
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.
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.
Excellence V
"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.
Excellence IV
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.
Heesen Yachts is thrilled to unveil the latest addition to its illustrious 55-meter Steel series, YN 20955 Project Agnetha. This exceptional blue-water motor yacht is built on a tried-and-tested design platform, offering owners the advantage of quick delivery just in time for the upcoming summer cruising season.Designed by Frank Laupman of Omega Architects, Project Agnetha's sleek exterior boasts horizontal lines that enhance its length, while expansive tinted glass panels on the main and upper decks maximize natural light and frame panoramic ocean views. A signature "shark tooth" detail adorns the wheelhouse overhang, adding a touch of sophistication. Removing aft superstructure pillars creates a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces, offering unobstructed vistas from every corner of the yacht.Powered by an efficient Fast Displacement Hull Form (FDHF) and twin MTU 4000 M63 (IMO Tier III) engines, Project Agnetha achieves a top speed of 15.5 knots while maintaining exceptional stability and efficiency. This pairing ensures low fuel consumption across varying speeds, making it ideally suited for diverse cruising routes.Interior design by Luca Dini Design and Architecture provides a blank canvas for personalization. Inspired by Shakespeare's As You Like It, the interiors showcase light wood veneers and subtle metallic accents, inviting owners to infuse their own tastes. The yacht comfortably accommodates twelve guests across six staterooms, including an opulent 86 sqm owner's suite featuring a lounge, study, walk-in closet, and private terrace. Four guest staterooms are located on the lower deck, with a VIP suite on the bridge deck.Silvia Margutti and Luca Dini, Luca Dini Design and Architecture. Ph. Viola BerlandaLead architect Silvia Margutti explains, "For clients purchasing a speculative yacht like Agnetha, there's immense potential for customization despite the fixed layout. We've created multiple interior concepts showcasing various lighting schemes, furnishings, and decorative elements, demonstrating how a near-complete interior can still be tailored to meet specific preferences."Built on a well-established platform, Project Agnetha minimizes technical risks, enabling owners to focus on enjoying memorable moments with loved ones. While rooted in a proven framework, the yacht maintains its uniqueness through the creative collaboration between Heesen and Luca Dini, resulting in a highly personalized and functional space.Ruud van der Stroom, CCO Heesen Yachts. Ph. Paolo Ciaberta"Heesen's Project Agnetha presents a rare opportunity," remarks Ruud van der Stroom, Heesen's CCO. "It's the sole 55-metre steel yacht of Dutch pedigree available for rapid delivery, constructed on a dependable platform primed for customization. This combination of reliability, style, and versatility ensures that Agnetha is not only a beautiful vessel but also a ready-made home away from home for summer escapades."Heesen Yachts is a Dutch ship building company that specializes in custom-built superyachts in aluminum and steel from 30m to 70m in size. Founded in 1978, it has launched more than 170 yachts since its inception.Credit: Heesen Yachts
March 28, 2025
Mangusta Yachts announced the launch of the fourth unit in the acclaimed Mangusta Oceano 44 series, on March 8, 2025 – International Women's Day. This date perfectly encapsulates the yacht's essence: graceful yet powerful, embodying a perfect fusion of classic yachting heritage and cutting-edge innovation.A part of Mangusta's esteemed long-range lineup, the Mangusta Oceano 44 stands out as a modern-day floating sanctuary. With its robust steel hull and lightweight aluminum superstructure, this vessel effortlessly blends durability with style. Large panoramic windows invite passengers to revel in breathtaking views, transforming traditional yachting into an entirely fresh experience.Equipped with zero-speed and underway electric stabilizers, the yacht ensures utmost comfort, even during extended voyages. Her impressive range of 4,500 nautical miles, coupled with a top speed of 15.5 knots and a comfortable cruising speed of 11 knots, makes her ideal for both leisurely cruises and long-distance adventures.Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the Mangusta Oceano 44 embodies Mangusta's unwavering commitment to excellence. Inside, a harmonious blend of fine woods and marble creates a sophisticated, minimalistic aesthetic. The abundant glass surfaces allow light to flood the interior, creating a seamless connection between indoors and outdoors.The master suite serves as a private oasis, offering unobstructed ocean vistas and exquisite finishes. Each cabin mirrors the yacht's overall design language, ensuring consistency and elegance throughout.Outdoor areas are equally remarkable, featuring a generous 104-square-meter sundeck and a versatile beach club that transforms into a wraparound platform when the transom opens. Forward, the wheelhouse boasts floor-to-ceiling windows, guaranteeing optimal visibility and smooth sailing.This particular unit was commissioned by a European client and will soon ply the azure waters of the Mediterranean. The success of this project is attributed to the collaborative efforts of Overmarine Group, P.L.A.N.A. Design, and Alberto Mancini, along with the custom interior work of Gianluca Sist from H2 design studio.Gaston Lees-Buckley of Camper & Nicholsons oversaw the construction process, contributing significantly to the yacht's realization. Overmarine Group was founded in 1985 by the Balducci family. The shipyard builds open and displacement power superyachts under the Mangusta and Mangusta Oceanco brand names. Credits: Overmarine Group
March 28, 2025
Ulyssia Residences AG recently unveiled updates about their ambitious 320-meter residential superyacht project during the Palm Beach International Boat Show. Developed in partnership with renowned designer Espen Øino and shipbuilder Meyer Werft, this floating community promises a unique lifestyle experience. Scheduled to begin construction in September, the vessel is set to launch in 2029.Designed to provide a seamless journey between iconic cities and secluded natural havens, the superyacht aims to foster a vibrant, close-knit community. With nearly half of the available units already sold, the project emphasizes exclusivity and shared ownership, allowing residents to enjoy tailored experiences while owning a piece of the vessel itself.Founder and Chairman Frank Binder’s vision draws inspiration from his lifelong passion for maritime living. His idea evolved from admiring The World, another residential cruise ship, leading him to envision a space where travelers could truly call the sea their home. As the first buyer aboard Ulyssia, Binder has personally invested in bringing this dream to reality.Featuring 133 spacious residences and 22 guest suites, Ulyssia offers accommodations ranging from cozy one-bedrooms to expansive six-bedroom layouts, complete with state-of-the-art amenities. Customizable interiors by FM Architettura.Beyond luxury, Ulyssia prioritizes health and education. Onboard facilities include a comprehensive wellness center managed by Swiss firm Chenot, advanced medical services, and opportunities for homeschooling and cultural enrichment. These offerings are enhanced by partnerships with EYOS Expeditions, ensuring access to immersive expeditions worldwide.With sustainability at its core, Ulyssia incorporates eco-friendly technologies like hybrid propulsion, solar power, and advanced energy recovery systems. Its innovative design allows navigation through diverse waterways, including the Amazon River and the Panama Canal, without compromising environmental impact.As Chief Operating Officer Renato W. Chizzola notes, Ulyssia defies categorization – it is simultaneously a luxury hotel, remote resort, and exclusive club. Credits: Ulyssia
March 28, 2025
Heesen Yachts announced the delivery of YN 20555, the 55-meter steel yacht named Serena, marking the first delivery of 2025. Managed by Arcon Yachts Monaco, Serena exemplifies the fruitful collaboration between the two companies, blending precision engineering with bespoke design.Rick van de Wetering, Chief Operations Officer at Heesen Yachts, expressed delight with the delivery, stating, "We are pleased with the first yacht of 2025, a successful project with Arcon Yachts Monaco. Their expertise ensured a smooth process from start to finish. Serena stands out as a unique blend of superyacht excellence and personal customization, built on a proven platform for reliability."Construction of Serena began in spring 2022, with the experienced owners playing an active role from the outset, working closely with Heesen engineers and the design team led by Luca Dini. The objective was to create a homely and relaxing interior, suitable for extended stays on board. Careful attention was given to seating arrangements and material selections, ensuring that every area promotes relaxation.Serena is equipped with a steel ultra-efficient, fast displacement hull form (FDHF), providing a transatlantic range of 4,500 nautical miles at 13 knots and a top speed of 15.5 knots, thanks to two MTU 8V 4000 M63 engines (IMO Tier III). Designed by Omega Architects, the exterior complements the interior vision of Luca Dini, offering accommodation for 12 guests across five staterooms.Richard Kaye of Arcon Yachts Monaco noted, "We have refined the yacht with the owner, enhancing an already superb design. By incorporating windows into the beach club to create a serene sauna and relaxation zone, and making subtle changes throughout, we have tailored it to the owner's wishes. The result is a stylish and practical design that everyone should admire."The yacht's interior spaces include a main saloon divided into three areas, with a fully-equipped bar ensuring a seamless transition between indoors and outdoors. The Sky Lounge acts as the social hub, featuring a custom games table and comfortable seating for entertainment. The beach club, lit naturally by glass portholes, is styled as a waterside retreat, while the sauna, adorned with elegant wood finishes, adds to the yacht's charm. The 110-square-meter sun deck provides versatile furniture arrangements and a forward seating area to enjoy the views.The owner’s quarters on the main deck include a lounge, office space, and a luxurious full-beam cabin with a private veranda. The lower deck features four guest staterooms with unique marble details in their en-suite bathrooms. Serena also boasts a gym on the bridge deck, which can be easily retrofitted into an additional cabin if desired.Bob van Zundert, shipyard captain, praised Serena’s handling, saying, "She handles impressively considering her size—760 GT of internal volume. Yet, she responds well to commands and offers comfort and stability akin to an aluminum vessel, with the maneuverability of her aluminum counterparts. Our 55m series instills confidence and reassurance in captains navigating the seas."Serena sets the tone for an exciting lineup of yachts to be delivered in 2025, heralding a remarkable year in the luxury yachting industry.Credits: Heesen Yachts
March 27, 2025
The Monaco Yacht Show is solidifying its position as a platform for industry progress by launching Blue Wake, a new initiative aimed at enhancing the visibility of environmentally sustainable solutions across the event. Beginning with the 2025 edition, MYS will integrate innovations with stronger eco-responsibility, reflecting the industry's commitment to a more sustainable future.Building on the success of the Sustainability Hub, introduced in 2022, MYS recognizes the growing importance of sustainability as a core industry focus. The launch of Blue Wake represents a natural evolution of MYS's ongoing commitment to promoting sustainability in yachting.Blue Wake will spotlight companies whose solutions meet rigorous environmental sustainability criteria. Approved exhibitors will receive prominent visibility throughout the show, enabling engagement with key stakeholders, including yacht owners, builders, investors, and industry leaders. As with the Sustainability Hub, the Water Revolution Foundation will continue to support MYS in identifying impactful solutions that contribute to genuine progress in the industry.Gaëlle Tallarida, Managing Director of the Monaco Yacht Show, notes, "Sustainability has become an essential driver of innovation in yachting, and our role at MYS is to provide a platform where these advancements can gain the recognition they deserve. With Blue Wake, we are reinforcing this commitment by ensuring that sustainability is an integral part of the event experience, engaging all stakeholders in meaningful discussions about the future of our industry."Robert van Tol, Executive Director of the Water Revolution Foundation, emphasizes, "This initiative is about more than visibility—it’s about credibility. Through a rigorous vetting process, we are ensuring that the solutions presented under Blue Wake genuinely contribute to making the yachting industry more sustainable. It's an opportunity for companies to demonstrate their commitment and for the industry to continue its progress toward a more responsible future."While specific exhibitors and solutions for the Blue Wake programme have yet to be confirmed for the 2025 edition, MYS encourages industry followers to stay tuned for updates as the event approaches.Credit: The Monaco Yacht Show
March 27, 2025