Launched in 2015 by Feadship in the Netherlands, the 83.5-meter Savannah became a landmark project for her shipyard, becoming one of the first true representations of a hybrid superyacht. With features such as an underwater observation room and a 9-meter swimming pool, the yacht was recently made available for charter from €1 million per week.
Built as a separate room, adjacent to the entrance to the master stateroom, the owner's study features floor-to-ceiling windows, not unlike other areas on Savannah, as well as a fully-stocked library and lounging area.
Built for Swedish billionaire, Lukas Lundin, according to the New York Times, Savannah boasts the first hybrid propulsion system implemented on a yacht of this size.
Built under the codename Monkey Business, Savannah stretches across a beam of 12.5 meters, the widest possible measurement that allowed her to cruise out of the shipyard and into the sea through Dutch canals. Straying away from classical Feadship lines, Savannah's rounded shapes were drawn by CG Design, the second superyacht the French studio ever designed.
Having designed the interior of Lundin's previous yacht, a 49-meter Christensen named Odessa, the French studio aimed to look at yacht design in a different way. The result was the creation of spaces such as the underwater observation lounge, a secret room in the bow and a customized interior layout.
"It is not the individual technologies used on Savannah that are new in the yachting world - it is the way they have been combined." detailed the owner's project manager, Ted McCumber at the time of her delivery.
Prior to Savannah, hybrid superyachts had long been an ambition for various shipyards but the yet unproven technology was failing to attract enough attention from clients to warrant them venturing into nine-figure yacht construction projects on a dream.
This all changed in 2011 when Lundin placed an order with Feadship to build the 83.5-meter Savannah. Initially skeptical to implementing the propulsion technology that would set Savannah apart, Lundin reportedly had his engineer ride several passenger ships in Japan where a similar technology had been installed to test it out on the seas.
Featuring five different operating modes, from diesel to fully electric, Savannah features a 30-tons lithium battery bank capable of holding up to 1 million watts of electricity. Using best of both worlds, Savannah can reach a cruising speed of 18 knots in diesel-electric mode.
Savannah's main salon is purposely located on the same level as her 9-meter swimming pool, to create a gigantic open space on the main deck. Should guests open the weathertight doors, which get stacked invisibly on the side, a virtually natural transition between the indoor salon and the outdoor swimming pool takes place.
Low lounging furniture located all around the swimming pool create an ideal location for sunbathing, whilst at the same time letting guests experience an untampered view all around from the mosaic swimming pool. Railings have also been built in such a manner to keep an open view.
Inside the main deck, the circular layout theme continues with round shapes found in a variety of places. From the light spread on the ceiling to the concealed staircase on the side to the shapes of the carpets and furniture, the circular theme spreads throughout the main deck lounge.
Another noticeable detail is that instead of cutting through rooms in a straight line, corridors flow throughout the layout of the yacht in curves, mimicking the shape of a wave and the sea as they spread through the 83.5-meter yacht.
"When we were in design meetings, [the designer] would turn to me and ask if there was a 'nautical reason' for things - straight hallways and square rooms for example. If we'd say no, she'd say: 'Good, let's do it a different way.' There was not one detail she would not spend days going over to make sure Savannah was perfect. She really pushed the yard with her design to build the best possible yacht for the owner" McCumber explained to BI.
In between the main salon and the upper deck lounge are two tall, video screens built into the wall that feature abstract video art that spreads across the decks. "It was hard work designing and implementing" Gherardi, the designer, explained BI "but it was worth the effort. It creates movement, a view in a space which is normally stale".
The lighting installed onboard the 83.5m Savannah is amongst one of the most complex ever built on a yacht of this size. Developed by Milan's Metis Lighting, some elements of Savannah's lighting scheme feature up to 10 different colors, lenses and positions. The yacht's exterior strip lighting was on the other hand developed by Total Looks. Although the yacht is very bright by day, at night she takes on an almost mysterious look thanks to her lighting choices.
Past the tall video screens is located the yacht's main dining table, capable of comfortably accommodating all 12 of Savannah's guests. The same outdoor to indoor transition that guests would see on the main deck can also be spotted on the upper deck, as seemingly endless windows can be stacked away to open the area completely onto the outside lounge, perfectly suited for cocktails.
Forward on the upper deck is the owner's stateroom. Offering an unparalleled, 180-degree view as the yacht cruises forward, the master stateroom basically translates to an owner's deck, complete with a study and lounge. To offer even more light, a glass feature was installed into the suite's ceiling.
Up on the third deck starts a transition to a wellness area with a well-equipped gym located aft of the deck with the same transition from outdoor to indoor as guests previously had found on lower decks. A unique opportunity to exercise with an unbeatable view whether underway or at anchor.
A space dedicated for relaxing in the summer sun, Savannah's sundeck features extensive space for lounging. Sunbeds are located aft of the deck, with a lounging area, which could be used as a casual dining spot protected by shade from Savannah's roof.
Forward of the sundeck can be found even more lounging space protected by a shade as well as extensive areas for sunbathing on the sides of the yacht. Towards the bow is a hot tub that seamlessly blends into the deck with no railings around and nothing to block an incomparable view.
In addition to her owner's stateroom, Savannah features five guest cabins bring the total number of guests to 12, catered to by a crew of 24. Located down on the main deck, guest accommodation is split into two twins, two guest cabins and one VIP cabin with a foldable balcony.
Featuring a light set of colors, Savannah's guest cabins continue the yacht's circular theme through round shapes found in various setups throughout the guest accommodation. Another aspect that's also replicated in these staterooms are the large windows found in every cabin.
Savannah's most standout feature, even perhaps surpassing the novelty of her inspired hybrid propulsion, is the so-called Nemo room. Letting its guest look out into the sea from a stadium-like layout, the room features unquestionably one of the best views onboard with the ability to watch sea life from the comfort of an 83.5-meter superyacht.
Accessible from main deck aft, the underwater observation lounge also doubles as a cinema with a giant screen dropping down from the ceiling and transforming the area from a place to stare at the depths of the ocean into a fully-functional cinema.
Lukas Lundin was born in 1958, the son of Adolf Lundin, a Swedish entrepreneur that established several businesses with the natural resources space and made his first breakthrough discovery of an oil field in Qatar in the 1970s.
Graduating from the New Mexico Institue of Mining and Technology in 1981, Lukas Lundin held a variety of high-profile position in the petroleum sector during the 1980-90s. Through his tenure at those ventures, he participated in a number of 9-figure takeovers of gold and oil businesses.
Ranking simultaneously on the list of richest people in Sweden and in Canada, due to his dual citizenship, Lundin has an estimated net worth of $2.5 billion combined with his brother Ian, who runs Lundin Petroleum. He competed four times in the famed Paris-Dakar race, finishing it twice.
The Lundin's family mantra, according to the international press, has been "no guts, no glory" ever since Adolf Lundin started his first company in the natural resources space. One such move was the Lundins investing $12 million in an Argentinian copper asset in 1992 during a period of instability, selling it for $500 million in 1995.
According to Lundin, success in the natural resources space requires 3 things. "First — risk-taking. Second — you have to be a giant optimist. Third — you have to be willing to go out there and do it. It’s easy to sit on a couch and talk about it, but then you have to actually fly to some crazy place and pick up the concessions and develop them." he said in an interview to CEO CA in 2013.
In recent years, Lukas Lundin has been most famous in the business community for his ability to discover natural resources using sometimes unconventional methods by granting its employees more freedom to test out new ideas.
Lundin Petroleum, for example, discovered near 2 billion barrels of oil in an area that had previously been drilled without success. Lundin believes this resource alone is worth $12 billion.
Lundin has also been hailed for his repeatedly impeccable timing, allowing for tremendous exits in the space that have yielded his shareholders colossal returns. In 2010, the Lundin Organization sold their Red Back Minning company to Kinross gold for $9,2 billion, generating a 1041% return for shareholders. The acquirer, Kinross, eventually had to write down billions as a result of this transaction and ultimately its CEO, Tye Burt retired early.
Lundin pushing the yachting industry forward with the delivery of Savannah comes as the Scandinavian region, in general, has been recently becoming a powerhouse in the superyacht space.
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