Few superyachts have ever gained a level of recognition across mainstream audiences as has the A fleet in recent years. Designed by Starck, their lines have become the most polarizing in the yachting sector and brought unprecedented attention to the field in general.
Initially sketched by Starck in a matter of minutes according to the French designer, the project for Motor Yacht A started back in 2004 when Russian billionaire, Andrey Melnichenko contracted him for the project. Starck later said in interviews that the brief simply said the yacht had to have six cabins and approximately measure its current length, the rest was left up to the designer.
At that point, the Frenchman had completed two yachts already, a 24-meter sailing yacht named Virtuelle and the 65m Feadship, Wedge Too. The project was nonetheless ambitious, to create an original yacht that stood out and didn't mimick anything done before. Designed to have volume, whilst at the same time living in the light, Starck emphasized that the layout needed to be simple and human without too many corridors.
Starck is known for often pushing for his own style in his projects and designs, not necessarily folding to the requests of the owner. Instead, he says he tries to understand their needs and come up with a creative solution as he did with Motor Yacht A according to his interviews.
Delivered in 2008 by Blohm+Voss, a German shipyard since acquired by Lurssen, Motor Yacht A hit headlines in the worldwide press for her polarizing design and didn't leave anyone indifferent. Innovative amenities onboard included a large main salon that stretched as a single room throughout the main deck and encouraged socializing.
Another key element in her design was the creation of a spacious, lounging zone forward on the yacht's bow. Whereas such areas are typically found towards the aft, Starck believed that it allowed to be closer to the sea and better enjoy the yacht. The space combines both shaded and open spaces for entertainment and sunbathing. The bow also features a swimming pool with jets and a helipad.
Starck dedicated much space and attention to the tender garage on Motor Yacht A. Whereas in most superyachts, it is merely a technical space accessed, essentially only by crew, on the 119-meter it is a fully integrant part of the yacht's guest areas. Finished in wood and with a extremely high ceiling, the tender garage houses a plethora of options to get to shore as well as a lounging area.
Aft of the yacht is a platform that opens up directly onto the sea for swimming. Often found on yachts of a smaller scale, such a set up is particularly unusual for a megayacht of M/Y A's size. Instead of merely lying on top of the water, however, it actually lowers into the water at an angle comfortable for its guests to simply step into the water.
Following its delivery, M/Y A continued to make headlines as it cruised around the world. Just as some believed her newsworthiness would fade, images of project 787 started to emerge online in early 2015 as it left its shed at Nobiskrug to start sea trials. Even more polarizing and again designed by Starck, it wasn't long before it became clear the 142.8-meter yacht would become S/Y A.
Although her 142.8-meter length would give Melnichenko's new flagship the title of largest sailing yacht in the world, its technical classification as a sail-assisted motor yacht led to many viewing her more as a hybrid between the two types. As a result some argued, the 108-meter Black Pearl, designed by Ken Freivokh and built by Oceanco, should be considered the largest sailing yacht.
With masts taller than Big Ben at nearly 100 meters in height, S/Y A boasts over 12,600 GT of interior volume, just 3,100 less than Dilbar, the most voluminous yacht in the world. By this measurement, she's also 4.6 times larger than the largest sailing yacht in the world, the 108-meter Black Pearl. Stretching across a beam of 24.8 meters at her widest point, S/Y A could reach a top speed of 20 knots during her sea trials without using her sails.
Spanning across eight decks, S/Y A was designed by Starck, similarly to M/Y A. Her rig and keel were, however, done by Dykstra Naval Architects, a company famous for their work on the 88m Maltese Falcon as well as the Black Pearl. A more closed yacht than M/Y A, the 142.8-meter features a myriad of balconies throughout its hull.
S/Y A was built in Germany by Nobiskrug, a shipyard owned by the Safa brothers' Privinvest Group, which also includes CMN and ADMShipyards. The sailing yacht left Nobiskrug in February 2017, heading to Spain for further sea trials and some interior fittings.
Shrouded in secrecy throughout her build and following her delivery, very little details are known about the amenities onboard the sailing yacht. Spotter imagery has, however, shown that towards the bow of the yacht is a large swimming pool with sunpads around it that can be covered by a retractable roof. Other known elements include a beach club aft of the yacht with a folding platform. Two hot tubs can also be seen aft of the 142.8-meter's upper decks.
A year prior to the delivery of S/Y A, Melnichenko's motor yacht was put up for sale according to Forbes Russia. The 119-meter was, however, subsequently taken off the brokerage market according to several reports and is still owned by the Russian billionaire. In 2016, the yacht had travelled across a lot of large cities including Bordeaux, Amsterdam, London, Rotterdam and spent a significant amount of time in the Gulf. She is currently in the Indian Ocean.
Valued by Forbes at $13.2 billion, Andrey Melnichenko currently sits in their ranking as the 9th richest man in Russia. The 45-year-old started his entrepreneurial career as a 2nd year college student in the 1990s with a chain of currency-exchange booths, from which later emerged MDM Bank. In 1997, he co-founded a holding company that went on to create fertilizer producer, Eurochem, pipe exporter TMK and SUEK. According to Forbes Russia, the partners invested near $1 billion at the time to build out this holding between 2000 and 2002.
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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