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.
Seawolf arrived in Falmouth Antigua last month following a successful transatlantic voyage, marking its first public appearance since undergoing an extensive 2-year refit at Pendennis’ UK facility. The 1950s 57-meter converted ocean-going tug was comprehensively updated with modern technology and sustainable solutions, while preserving its heritage and classic lines.Pendennis collaborated with UK-based Design Unlimited, who were contracted by the yacht’s new owners to oversee the refit design of both the interior and exterior. Design Unlimited worked closely with interior designer Ngila Boyd, who has a long-standing relationship with the client, to create a timeless and elegant interior tailored to the family’s needs for global cruising and exploration. The design incorporates painted and timber panelling, elegant materials, bespoke furniture by H. Miller Bros., and lighting by John Cullen and Cox London, enhancing the onboard ambiance.Transformative improvements include a new owner’s suite, forward of the owner’s pantry and sky lounge, and a redesigned aft deck with a hard top featuring skylights. The flybridge was remodeled into a dining and viewing space, while the crew area, captain’s cabin, and wheelhouse were also extensively refurbished. The owner’s accommodation was expertly manufactured and fitted by Oldenburger, while Norfolk Interiors crafted the sky lounge, owner’s pantry, crew accommodations, and wheelhouse. Exterior enhancements, including the flybridge and main deck reception area, were executed by William Garvey.The refit included a complete overhaul of the yacht’s hotel services, guest and crew spaces, and engine room, with the existing slow-speed diesel engines preserved. The exterior was sympathetically restored, including a complete repaint of the hull and superstructure, new decks, a new cargo/rescue crane, a side boarding platform, and the reconfiguration of outside spaces.Group Operations Director Charlie Ross noted that the Seawolf project was one of the most technologically demanding endeavors tackled by Pendennis, requiring the team to push boundaries in sustainable solutions while respecting the yacht’s aesthetic integrity. The successful completion of the refit ensures that Seawolf retains its legacy and continues to be a significant presence in the global yachting community.Pendennis Shipyard is one of the world's leading custom superyacht builders and refit shipyards and has become one of Cornwall's most important employers with over 430 highly skilled tradespeople based at the 14-acre prime waterfront location in Falmouth, UK. In the latter part of 2018 Pendennis secured a majority share hold in Vilanova Grand Marina, a 48 berth facility with adjacent land available for further development. The investment in Vilanova is yet another milestone in Pendennis’ international growth and offering to its global client base. Credit: Pendennis
March 13, 2025
Bluegame will once again participate in the Palm Beach International Boat Show, taking place from March 19th to 23rd, 2025. The brand will showcase the BG74, a model embodying the essence of the historic BG range and the embodiment of Bluegame's unique touch.BG74 is bridging the gap between open and fly-bridge yachts. It is designed for owners seeking a comprehensive yachting experience without compromises, combining the best attributes of both categories.Building on the successes of 2024, including the pioneering BGH-HSV Hydrogen Support Vessel project, Bluegame continues to push the boundaries of innovation. The experience gained from BGH-HSV has laid the foundation for a new range of multihulls, named BGF (Foil), with the BGF45 model set to debut in the summer of 2025.Another significant development in 2024 was the release of the upgraded BGM75, featuring synchronized gyroscopes in collaboration with Smart Gyro, offering unprecedented stability and comfort. A unit of this model will make its U.S. debut in the summer of 2025, further solidifying Bluegame's position as a leader in technological innovation within the international yachting industry.Bluegame is part of Sanlorenzo. The Sanlorenzo shipyard has been building high-quality motor yachts since 1958. It is a boutique firm in the yachting industry, building only a limited number of made-to-measure units per year. Each yacht is designed and produced according to the specific requests, style, and desires of the individual owner.Credits: Bluegame
March 13, 2025
Moonen Yachts announced a reduction in the price of the Moonen 110 Mustique YN202 ahead of its presentation at the Palm Beach International Boat Show (PBIBS), where the yacht will be featured on E-dock within the IYC display.Originally priced at 16,900,000,− the price has been lowered to 15,400,000,- inclusive of a two-year shipyard warranty from the point of sale. Delivered in 2023, this long-range steel yacht embodies Moonen Yachts’ renowned Dutch engineering and superior craftsmanship, ensuring safety, stability, and an exceptionally quiet cruising experience.Designed by René van der Velden, the yacht’s sleek exterior is paired with a custom interior finished by London-based Studio Indigo. The yacht offers spacious accommodation for up to 10 guests, including a full-beam Owner’s Stateroom with 180-degree panoramic views, expansive exterior decks for socializing and dining, and a generous bridge deck. With an impressive 279GT of interior volume, the Moonen 110 Mustique YN202 delivers a luxurious cruising experience, combining impressive fuel efficiency, unlimited long-range cruising, and a shallow draft ideal for the balmy waters of The Bahamas.Representatives Matthew Stone and Richard Gray are eager to welcome visitors on board YN202 and will be joined by the Moonen team at PBIBS to showcase the all-new Moonen 122 Martinique YN205 and other exciting developments. For sales inquiries or to arrange a viewing, please contact the Global Sales Representatives.Moonen Yachts is a yacht builder based in the Netherlands, and its first yacht was built in 1964 under the original yard name of De Ruiter. In 1981, the yard was renamed Moonen Shipyards. It’s launching its first vessel under new ownership: Alhena. In 2017 Moonen Shipyards changed into Moonen Yachts. With the help of strong vision, innovative technology and new designers, Moonen is once again becoming the market leader in 30m to 50m luxury yachts.Credits: Moonen Yachts
March 13, 2025
Gruppo Antonini announced its participation in the OMC - Offshore Mediterranean Conference & Exhibition from April 8 to 10 in Ravenna. This is a significant opportunity for Gruppo Antonini to showcase its expertise dating back to 1943 in the oil & gas sector, as well as to explore new possibilities arising from the energy transition.Serving as a focal point for the offshore energy industry, the OMC has grown in stature over the years, making it one of the most anticipated events in the sector. Gruppo Antonini will occupy its own booth to highlight its long tradition as an EPCIC contractor (Engineering, Procurement, Construction, Installation, and Commissioning) and showcase recent and ongoing projects.One notable project recently completed by Gruppo Antonini is the Maboqueiro gas platform, a structure weighing over 5,500 tonnes, which was entirely built and launched at the company’s La Spezia shipyard and neighboring engineering workshops. Delivered to customer Azule Energy at the end of 2024, the project spanned 24 months due to its complexity, stemming from its size and numerous interfaces. The final assembly phase of the platform, involving the positioning of the jacket and deck in the Atlantic Ocean, is scheduled to commence in March 2025, with Gruppo Antonini managing the hook-up operations, lasting approximately 45 days.Additionally, Gruppo Antonini has recently secured two significant orders from Mellitah Oil & Gas BV - Libyan Branch (National Oil Corporation of Libya and Eni North Africa): a gas production platform in Libya valued at €300 million and a Platform Compression Module for installation on the existing SABRATHA gas platform, 42 meters above sea level and 120 kilometers from the Libyan coast.Through its participation in OMC Ravenna 2025, Gruppo Antonini aims to strengthen its position as a leader in the offshore energy sector, highlighting its capabilities in executing complex projects and embracing the challenges of the evolving energy landscape.Credits: Gruppo Antonini
March 12, 2025
Revolution Marine Group and Silent Escapes have introduced a groundbreaking sustainable yacht financing model, the Credit Linked Note (CLN) investment model, facilitated by the Swiss company GenTwo. Already managing over USD 4 billion in assets, this innovative approach combines the simplicity of crowdfunding with the security of a regulated financial instrument.Ultra-green real estate developer Silent Escapes has adopted this method to finance the purchase of two Revolution S60 solar-electric supported catamarans, scheduled for delivery to the Bahamas in early summer 2025 and early 2026. The CLN model offers investors significant returns and exclusive yacht charter benefits.The funds raised by Silent Escapes will be used to acquire two state-of-the-art solar-electric catamarans from Revolution Marine Group, representing manufacturers including Revolution Yachts, Canados Heritage, and CL Yachts. These 60-foot, four-cabin catamarans offer silent, emissions-free cruising throughout the Caribbean, enhancing the eco-luxury experience at Silent Escapes' stunning Marina Point residences.The catamarans will generate revenue through membership fees linked to Silent Escapes' real estate sales and will be available for both commercial charter and promotional activities. Property owners at Silent Escapes will gain access to these yachts, offering them exclusive charter opportunities or shared access to the expanding fleet.The CLN model provides a highly secure investment opportunity with numerous advantages:Swiss-registered CLNs: Offered through GenTwo, with an ISIN code (CH1408701055).Annual Return: 14.25% over a two-year term.Additional Benefits: Qualified investors receive free all-inclusive charters, and investment credits toward Silent Escapes properties.Asset Security: Assets are secured by high-value solar-electric yachts and 100% solar-powered waterfront residences.The CLN can be purchased through any bank using the provided ISIN code, simplifying the investment process.Ed Sacks, CEO of Revolution Marine Group, stated, "By combining cutting-edge solar-electric technology, high-end luxury design, and eco-conscious investment models, we are excited to set a new benchmark for sustainable land and sea tourism." Victor Barrett, CEO of Silent Escapes, added, "Our innovative funding approach allows investors to purchase investment certificates directly from their bank, offering enhanced protection and flexibility."This collaboration exemplifies how sustainable practices can merge with lucrative investment opportunities, appealing to eco-conscious investors seeking both financial gains and unique experiential rewards.Credits: Revolution Marine Group, Silent Escapes
March 12, 2025