Trump's election as president of the United States marked a number of firsts, including the institution of what has historically become the wealthiest cabinet ever in existence in America. The billionaire's effect on politics and policy has become the subject of many international debates, yet his interests in yachting tend to be less talked about but remain no less fascinating when coupled with his administration.
In his former life as a billionaire businessman, Trump not only owned an 86m superyacht as well as a shipyard for a brief period of time, but 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.
Whereas the actual construction price of this particular Westport is unknown, as is typical with the vast majority of new build yachts, a similar 50-meter Westport sold at an asking price of $29,950,000 in November 2016. It is standard for the final, actual price to be 30-40% lower to the asking price in yachting.
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.
Sanlorenzo has officially unveiled the SD132, marking a significant milestone in its Yacht Business Unit. This impressive vessel, measuring 40.7 meters in length, stands as the largest composite-built yacht produced by the shipyard and the flagship model in the esteemed semi-displacement line. Continuing the legacy of its predecessors –SD90, SD96, SD112, SD118, SD126, and SD132 – the SD132 introduces refined features and groundbreaking innovations that make it a standout in the yachting industry.“We couldn’t be more excited about the launch of the SD132, which perfectly marries substantial size, cutting-edge design, and timeless elegance – hallmarks of the Sanlorenzo brand,” stated Tommaso Vincenzi, President of Sanlorenzo’s Yacht Business Unit. “The enthusiastic market response is evidenced by five contracts already signed prior to the launch, illustrating the yacht’s successful reception among discerning owners.” He emphasized that every aspect of the SD132 reflects the unwavering dedication and passion of the Sanlorenzo team, who continually seek to redefine the boundaries of onboard space and volume.The SD132 boasts extraordinary dimensions with an impressive 420 gross tons, making it a unique offering among yachts of its size. Notable for its innovative use of space, the yacht features expansive areas designed for optimal connection with the marine surroundings. A key highlight is the expansive beach area, seamlessly integrated with the aft cockpit. When its lateral terraces are rotated and opened, guests are greeted with an impressive 70-square-meter terrace, enhancing the yacht’s connection with the ocean.Additional standout features include the vast 85-square-meter fly deck, complete with a crystal-clear mini pool and sunbathing area. The yacht also includes a side garage capable of accommodating a tender up to 6.25 meters long – a feature typically found on larger vessels – providing extensive customization options. The forward area further enhances this with a separate hangar for storing toys or a rescue boat.Designed by Zuccon International Project, the SD132’s exterior reflects a harmonious balance, rooted in the innovative concept of asymmetry, pioneered by Sanlorenzo. The unique layout positions the main deck walkway on the left side and the upper deck walkway on the right, optimizing weight distribution and interior volume. This configuration also facilitates vertical circulation between decks and enhances the usability of internal spaces.Accommodating four guest cabins and a crew area, the SD132 includes a generously sized 55-square-meter owner’s suite on the main deck, alongside a spacious saloon featuring expansive windows to maximize natural light. The collaboration between Sanlorenzo and Zuccon International Project extends to the yacht's interiors, which focus on creating inviting, nature-inspired environments. The interior design utilizes earth-toned colors and sustainable materials, crafting authentic spaces that emphasize a sensory connection between owners and their vessel.Combining sturdiness with elegance, the SD132 exemplifies Sanlorenzo’s commitment to high performance and extended-range capabilities, achieving a remarkable range of 3,200 miles. Sanlorenzo was founded in 1958 in Viareggio by yacht builder Gionvanni Jannetti. In 2005, Massimo Perrotti became the majority shareholder in the shipyard. Sanlorenzo builds yachts ranging from 28.60 to 73 meters in length. Credits: Sanlorenzo
November 28, 2024
Italy's renowned Hot Lab, a key player in the Viken Group, has unveiled an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at its remarkable design process for the Columbus Yachts' newest superyacht, the Atlantique 43 Frette. This sneak peek highlights the intricate blend of Eastern and Western design philosophies, utilizing prestigious global design brands. Stunning imagery showcases Hot Lab's meticulous design work, capturing both the yacht's elegant exterior and luxurious interior. The same design team has crafted the vessel’s outer aesthetics and inner ambiance, ensuring a cohesive look and feel. Hot Lab is responsible for the entire Atlantique line, spanning lengths from 37m to 65m.“The concept for the exterior design originated from our vision of infusing the elegance, fluidity, and simplicity of sailboat lines into the realm of motor yachts,” said Antonio Romano, commercial director of the Viken Group and co-founder of Hot Lab. “This guiding principle has influenced the entire Atlantique range, a key element in attracting the owner's interest.”The exterior of Frette is reminiscent of natural forms, echoing the gentle curves of a shell or pebbled stone. Each deck features smooth contours, seamlessly transitioning from the bow to the expansive transom, while the sun deck’s roof extends outward like a protective hand. The design harmoniously blends characteristics of both sailing and motor yachts, enhancing its elegant silhouette.“Our inspiration came from nature, specifically the cocoon and polished stone,” explained Hot Lab co-founder and design director Enrico Lumini. “The river stone, shaped by water, becomes perfectly smooth and hydrodynamic, capturing an elegance that only natural elements can impart.”This philosophy extends to the yacht’s exterior spaces, with the open stern creating a luxurious beach club experience, flanked by large foldable wings. A unique glass-walled pool complements the design while forging a direct connection to the ocean, sitting just 50cm above the water’s surface.To maintain an organic atmosphere, the yacht dispenses with bulky structural furniture, opting instead for lightweight freestanding ivory Flexform sofas and loungers that can be quickly rearranged to restore the deck’s natural flow.Another lounge area at the bow centers around a stunning rectangular panoramic pool, framed by white sunbeds and complemented by elm coffee tables from Paola Lenti, as well as a bar topped with natural teak stools. The sun deck is outfitted for casual gatherings, featuring a rectangular teak table for 14, striking marble accents, and ample sunpads.The interior boasts exceptionally high ceilings that create a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces, accentuated by floor-to-ceiling glass panels. Curved glass elements reinforce the yacht’s soft, organic aesthetic, with sliding aft doors that enable effortless circulation.“One of my proudest achievements is the main deck salon and its entrance, which feels like a winter garden, integrating the interior and exterior in a truly harmonic way,” remarked Lumini. “The expansive glass and side openings invite abundant natural light.”The main saloon features deep white sofas and contemporary styling with rounded shapes, including ivory linen seating by Paolo Castelli contrasted with blue-hued cushions. A warm palette of brushed and bleached American walnut parquet laid in herringbone complements oak wall panels that house a large TV framed in onyx and ivory marble. The space includes an elegant oak bench by Fendi, complete with a fabric seat and leather straps, and a sleek bar unit by Poltrona Frau.Hot Lab’s design also reveals a strong emphasis on cultural fusion. “The owner’s background reflects influences from both the East and the West,” Lumini noted. "This blend of details creates an expression that is both elegantly understated and distinctly personal."Moving to the upper deck, Hot Lab has crafted a vibrant gathering space. The outdoor aft deck features semicircular seating arrangements complemented by Flexform lounges and Paola Lenti coffee tables made from elm and iroko wood. Inside, a dining area showcases a custom panda marble table with Fendi Casa chairs, accommodating up to 12 guests, while the lounge area offers Giorgetti Caddy armchairs paired with Fendi Casa coffee tables, all enhanced by side windows that open fully for better circulation. Across five guest cabins, Hot Lab applies familiar motifs from the yacht’s design, featuring warm parquet and walls adorned with melange fabric, creating a harmonious ambiance.“Clients sought a light, airy space for social gatherings and business meetings,” Lumini explained. “Frette embodies that vision, providing a sophisticated yet welcoming environment.”Frette not only captivates with its design but also exemplifies the elegant harmony between its interiors and exteriors. Many claim to achieve seamless indoor-outdoor living, yet Hot Lab has realized this synergy in a way that feels both instinctive and natural. The studio champions a principle they call “Architecture for Voyagers.”“Architecture for Voyagers encapsulates our design ethos,” Romano stated. “It emphasizes respect for the object and its intended purpose. Yachts are unique in combining an outer shell – the pure design object – with a functional living space within. Striking a balance between these two aspects is a challenge that we have embraced, allowing us to create a unified whole.”Viken Group comprises Tillberg Design of Sweden, Hot Lab and Thalia Marine. The company offers a unique expertise compiled from vast experience with some of the world’s most complete shipbuilding projects. Viken Group specialises in every area of marine design, architecture and engineering and combines cultures, knowledge, experience and services. The company believes that the whole is greater than the sum of the parts.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: Matthew Donaldson/Columbus Yachts
November 28, 2024
Damen Yachting has announced the successful launch of the third hull in the prestigious Amels 80 series at its hull-building facility in Galati, Romania. The 80-meter superyacht has now set sail for Vlissingen in the Netherlands, where it will commence the next stage of outfitting.Boasting a striking exterior design by renowned yacht designer Espen Øino, the Amels 80 seamlessly blends exceptional performance with modern aesthetics. While specific details of the interior remain under wraps, the yacht is expected to continue the series' tradition of luxury and innovative design.Project Manager Sander Peeters shared his excitement, stating, "Seeing the third Amels 80 take to the water is a remarkable milestone for our entire team. We eagerly anticipate her arrival in the Netherlands and look forward to progressing towards her delivery."The completion of the third Amels 80 is slated for 2026.Damen Yachting, a division within the Damen Shipyards Group, was created in 2019. The division combines the pedigree and heritage of Amels yachts with a growing portfolio of SeaXplorer yachts and Yacht Support vessels.Credits: Damen Yachting
November 28, 2024
In a splendid ceremony on a sunny and breezy day in Cape Town, SW108#02 Kiboko 4 was unveiled to the delight of her proud owners, the Southern Wind team, and a host of distinguished guests. This remarkable vessel marks the fourth yacht built for the owner by Southern Wind, reflecting his rich sailing history with its three predecessors.The owner shared his excitement, stating, “This yacht signifies an evolution for me – drawing inspiration from my previous boats while showcasing Southern Wind’s innovation in crafting reliable yachts with elegant and bold designs. Kiboko 4 features a lifting keel, an improved sail plan, and a performance mast, all aimed at boosting her competitiveness in regattas. I opted for a striking dark hull and mast that enhance her dynamic aesthetics.”Crafted in the legacy of her successful sistership, Gelliceaux, Kiboko 4 possesses a unique character that sets her apart. Marco Alberti, CEO of Southern Wind, emphasized the individuality of this yacht, stating, “Kiboko 4 embodies our Smart Custom philosophy, focusing on weight optimization, performance, and aesthetics while maintaining a light Mediterranean atmosphere in her interiors.”Integral to Kiboko 4's construction was her captain, whose collaboration with the shipyard ensured that the yacht met the owner's high expectations, particularly regarding systems and mechanical details.Looking to the future, the owner envisions Kiboko 4 as a family yacht for Mediterranean summers and his first transatlantic journey to the Caribbean, with dreams of exploration in Maine as well. As Marco Alberti reflected, “It is a privilege to create another yacht for this owner, strengthening our friendship while showcasing Southern Wind’s dedication to excellence in yacht craftsmanship.” Southern Wind is a boutique bluewater sailing yacht shipyard founded in Cape Town in 1991. Since its foundation, SWS has specialized in the production of semi-custom high-performance superyachts. Credits: Southern Wind
November 27, 2024
The Otam 90 GTS, known as Sexy Me has taken the spotlight at autumn boat shows thanks to its exhilarating top speed of over 45 knots and its strikingly clean profile, offering a perfect blend of elegance and balance. This acclaimed 28-metre yacht sets the standard for the series, complemented by the newly launched Hard-Top and T-Top models that share its timeless design.Otam 90 T-Top model“Our goal with the Otam 90 series is to cater to a diverse clientele,” explains Matteo Belardinelli, Otam’s Sales and Communication Manager. “Each model is tailored for specific experiences: the dynamic Sexy Me GTS serves as an ideal Day Boat or Party Boat, while the Hard-Top is perfect for traditional family trips or charters, featuring a closed lounge and robust main deck. The innovative T-Top, designed for mega yacht chase purposes, offers extensive customisation options to redefine this market segment.”A hallmark of the Otam brand is extreme customisation and exclusivity, showcasing the Italian shipyard’s expertise in bespoke yacht construction that meets the unique demands of discerning owners. The Otam 90 series exemplifies Italian craftsmanship, delivering unparalleled design and engineering under the ethos of “Made in Italy.”Otam 90 T-Top modelDesigned in collaboration with the esteemed Giuseppe Bagnardi and Marine Design & Services, the Otam 90 series maintains the shipyard's tradition of versatile hulls and decks engineered for maximum performance in various sea conditions. Each model in the series upholds this commitment while allowing limitless options for bespoke internal and external layouts, enabling customers to express their individuality.Otam 90 Hard-Top modelDespite its chic exterior, the Otam 90 series maximizes interior space without sacrificing quality or comfort, offering layouts with 2, 3, or 4 VIP cabins, a separate galley, and crew accommodations with private access. “We’ve achieved an impressive 2.10-meter indoor height throughout the lower deck, ensuring an exceptional quality of life,” Belardinelli asserts, emphasizing the design’s focus on unobstructed views and ample daylight.The meticulous weight distribution allows for expansive structural glass used in large, single pieces, enhancing the visual experience in both the GTS and Hard-Top models, which include a spacious sliding roof. The innovative cockpit features folding side panels, expanding the space by nearly 3 meters on each side, creating an open, airy environment.Otam 90 T-Top modelIdeal not just as a chase boat for mega yachts, the T-Top version is designed for day trips as well, offering a perfect open-boat experience while also providing options for extended journeys. Its integrated design flows seamlessly from the windshield to provide complete protection for the helm.Conversely, the Hard-Top model offers a substantial enclosed space on the main deck with an advanced sliding door that fully opens the cockpit, perfectly merging the indoor and outdoor experience. The HT version allows for a formal dining room and offers privacy while enabling immediate transformation into an open space with just the press of a button.Otam 90 Hard-Top modelBelardinelli notes, “The HT model's flexibility is remarkable, allowing for an optimal quality of life and adaptability that suits the number of guests and weather conditions. It can easily convert to a spacious open yacht and back, demonstrating extraordinary versatility for families and charters.”Among the standout features of the Otam 90 series are the rotating gangway for side mooring, generous 50 cm walkways for easy bow access, and a spacious 4.35 m tender garage. The shipyard is committed to fulfilling unique client requests, allowing for bespoke layouts that reflect the owner’s style.Otam 90 Hard-Top modelThe shipyard’s history started in 1954 in Liguria. Its professionalism is what made it stand out, very quickly becoming the first authorized Riva yacht Service Center for the Med Sea. In the 80’s Otam fit around 25 yachts for an American builder before starting his own production of Otam 45’ and 55’, earning significant attention. Today Otam has produced around 90 yachts, becoming an Italian specialist, and, together with its custom range, offers a limitless choice between 45’ and 130’.Credits: Otam
November 27, 2024