Famously known as the world's largest yacht by gross tonnage, ie interior volume, the 156-meter Dilbar has redefined the notion of space in yachting. The third yacht to bear the same name, she was delivered by Lurssen to her Russian billionaire owner in 2017.
The first Dilbar superyacht to be delivered to Alisher Usmanov, a billionaire investor whose net worth was valued by Forbes at $16 billion, became a 66-meter Oceanco. Launched in 2005 by the Dutch shipyard, the first Dilbar was a significant step forward for the yard thanks to the 66-meter's innovative features such as her spa pool and beach club. Both well ahead of their time.
With an interior by Alberto Pinto, she became one of the most sought-after yachts on the water. Her rounded aft as well as her impressive 1,801GT of interior volume made her stand out from the crowd on the exterior. Inside, amenities included a private cinema, spacious cabins on the main deck, a vast dinning room and a salon with a piano.
Shortly prior to the delivery of his second Dilbar, Usmanov renamed the 66-meter to Ona in 2008 and subsequently put her on the brokerage market. The yacht was then sold in 2010 to US oil mogul, William Kallop at an asking price of €59.9 million.
Lately, Natita was in the press following her being seized by Goldman Sachs from Kallop and then sold. The American oil veteran had taken out a $32 million loan against Natita and his other yacht, the 57-meter Bad Girl, from Goldman before stopping to service it with nearly $28 million still left on it.
The investment bank thus decided to seize the 66-meter yacht from Kallop in Palm Beach and put her on the market. Goldman quickly offloaded Natita from their books by selling the yacht at a final price of $39.9 million, hence covering Kallop's remaining payment on the loan.
Usmanov's second Dilbar became a 110-meter superyacht out of Germany. A close sistership to Pelorus, she was launched by Lurssen in June 2008 and became the world's 17th largest yacht in the world. In addition to this, she also became one of the first yachts on the water to have particle filters on her main engine exhausts.
Known throughout her build as Project Opal, the 110-meter featured some similarities in interior design and amenities with the first Dilbar. A large Jacuzzi with a glass wall and water feature was installed forward of the sundeck with a lounging area around it, both on the 110-meter and the Oceanco. A lounge with a bar and piano was also incorporated into both yachts as well as a private cinema.
The scale of the new superyacht, however, allowed for some new, ameliorated features such as a large owner's office with several meeting areas and lounging area that opens onto the upper aft deck. A separate, executive conference room was also built onboard with an unbeatable view onto the sea through floor-to-ceiling windows. Other improvements include a spacious gym and spa area.
After several years near the top of the list of the world's largest yachts, the Dilbar name leapfrogged onto the number spot with the delivery of the 156-meter behemoth that is now the fleet's flagship. One of yachting's most anticipated projects ever, Dilbar was launched in 2016 and boasted a gross tonnage of 15,917 confirmed by the shipyard.
Around the same time, the 110-meter was renamed from Dilbar to Ona and put on the brokerage market according to landing pages that had then sprung up on websites of superyacht brokers. These have since been taken offline, however, it is yet unknown if the owner of the 110-meter changed or if these simply updated their marketing strategy.
Photo by Josip Baresic
With an exterior design by Espen Oeino, Dilbar now has a gross tonnage of 15,917 tons, hence topping Al Said's 15,850 tons and Azzam's 13,136 tons. Notably, all three of these voluminous yachts were built by Lurssen that has kept fortifying its position as the main destination for megayacht construction.
Impressive facts about the new Dilbar flagship include her beam of 23 meters as well as her deep, 6-meter draft. Onboard over 1,100km of cables were stretched for all of the required wiring and set up. According to the shipyard, 3,800 square meters of living space were built on Dilbar.
Built in under 52 months from the time of signing of the contract to delivery, Dilbar was also the largest yacht ever to feature a diesel electric power plant from an engineering standpoint. This lets the 156-meter yacht get up to a cruising speed of 22.5 knots. Her hull and superstructure represented near 10,000 square meters of faired surfaces.
Ever since her delivery in 2016, Dilbar has drawn the attention of worldwide press as well as social media users around the globe. Her travels throughout the Mediterranean have hence been essentially documented by enthusiasts around the world with her photos now having been taken from nearly every possible angle.
In early 2017, it was reported that a 160-meter berth, the largest in the world, was sold in OneOcean Port Vell, Barcelona. Although the name of the acquirer of the long term lease that is set to last until 2036 wasn't released, Dilbar is statistically the only yacht that could have used the berth to its full potential, which it has indeed done during the off season.
Fully renovated in 2014 through a €100 million investment led by the UK-based Salamanca Group, OneOcean Port Vell has become a hype destination for large superyachts in recent quarters thanks to its newly built amenities. In 2017, they had reported a 742% spike in visits of 100m+ yachts. Later that year, the marina was acquired by Qatari investment bank, QInvest together with an investment fund beneficially owned by Russian billionaire, Vagit Alekperov.
Currently Russia's fifth richest man with a net worth of $16 billion according to Forbes, Alisher Usmanov was also featured as one of the most powerful people in the world on their 2016 ranking. Primarily known in yachting through the Dilbar fleet, Usmanov is best known in business circles as the main shareholder of USM Holdings.
USM's initial equity stakes primarily stem from the metal and industrial sectors. These have, however, over time diversified and now also include ownership of Megafon, one of Russia's largest telecom operators. To the United Kingdom, Usmanov is best known as one of the co-owners of the Arsenal football club.
To the tech community, Usmanov is one of the most successful investors in modern history, having made investments into companies such as Facebook, Alibaba and Mail.ru.
Photos via Superyachts Gibraltar, Yacht Harbour, Instagram
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The first unit of the Ferretti Yachts 800 was launched on July 18 at the company's Cattolica shipyard. Measuring 24.47 meters in length with a 5.91-meter beam, the model completes the brand's flybridge range renewal initiated in 2018.Developed by Ferretti Group's Engineering Department and the Strategic Product Committee chaired by Piero Ferrari, the yacht features exterior design by architect Filippo Salvetti and interiors by Ideaeitalia. A version with shortened swim platform (maintaining 24-meter overall length) will be available for French market compliance.The main deck incorporates a 7-square-meter beach area with glass parapet, connecting to a crew section with three cabins accessible via portside walkway. Interior spaces feature 2-meter ceilings and extensive glazing, with the showcased unit displaying Classic styling with warm tones. The layout includes a living area with corner sofa, separate dining space with galley access, and isolated crew circulation paths.Accommodations comprise a master suite, VIP cabin, and two guest cabins totaling eight berths, all with en-suite bathrooms. The 40-square-meter flybridge offers an al fresco dining area, bar unit, and flexible aft lounge space.The inaugural unit is powered by twin 1800 hp MAN V12 engines, achieving a top speed of 31 knots and cruising at 27 knots. The Ferretti Group, led by Chief Executive Officer Alberto Galassi, is now one of the world’s leaders in the construction and sale of luxury yachts and pleasure vessels, with a unique portfolio of brands: Ferretti Yachts, Riva, Pershing, Itama, Mochi Craft, CRN, Custom Line and Wally.Credits: Ferretti Group
July 24, 2025
Sanlorenzo will debut its new 33-meter SL110A motor yacht at the Cannes Yachting Festival from September 9-14, 2025. The vessel represents the latest iteration of the shipyard's asymmetrical design series, following previous SL102A and SL106A models.Developed in collaboration with Zuccon International Project for exterior design and Piero Lissoni for interiors, the SL110A combines structural innovation with performance capabilities reaching 27 knots. The asymmetrical hull configuration provides 15% more interior volume compared to conventional designs through strategic spatial planning, including staggered port and starboard gangways that maximize usable area."The asymmetry is not just aesthetic: it unlocks greater interior space, uninterrupted views, and a feeling of openness that transforms life on board," stated Sanlorenzo CEO Tommaso Vincenzi.The yacht's redesigned bow area replaces traditional anchor storage with an integrated sea-facing terrace and swimming pool. Retractable bulwarks create 8 square meters of additional deck space when anchored, while a pivoting stern platform accommodates both tender and jet ski storage. The full-beam master suite spans 45 square meters with direct access to the foredeck pool area.Interior accommodations include five cabins for 10 guests, with two convertible twin/double staterooms. Crew quarters provide six berths in three cabins with a separate mess area. Material selections feature Calacatta marble, resin-finished ceilings, and engineered wood paneling throughout living spaces.Bernardo Zuccon of Zuccon International Project noted: "Asymmetry on SL110A is not simply a formal gesture - but a tool to reshape the spatial harmony onboard." The design eliminates 30% of traditional structural obstructions compared to previous models, improving sightlines across 210 square meters of total deck area.Technical enhancements include upgraded sound insulation in engine compartments and improved stabilization systems. The flybridge offers configurable layouts as either sun lounge or dining space, while the main deck lounge incorporates sliding glass walls that expand to create a 22 square meter waterside terrace when stationary.Production will continue at Sanlorenzo's La Spezia facility, with the Cannes display model being the first of six scheduled builds for 2026 delivery. Base pricing starts at €18 million before customization options. The SL110A represents the continued development of Sanlorenzo's asymmetrical series, which currently accounts for 40% of the shipyard's motor yacht orders.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
July 24, 2025
Dutch submersible manufacturer U-Boat Worx has implemented a major corporate restructuring, forming three specialized divisions to address different market segments. The company simultaneously announced the appointment of maritime industry veteran Wilbert Versteeg as its new Chief Executive Officer.The newly established divisions include:UBW Exploration – Focused on the company's core business of manned submersibles for private and commercial use. The division will continue production of existing models including the Cruise Sub series (7-11 passengers), compact NEMO (2-3 passengers), Super Yacht Sub, and the high-speed Super Sub. A new wet-lease program will offer submersible charters with crew and technical support.UBW Components – Will commercialize proprietary subsea technologies originally developed for U-Boat Worx vessels, including pressure-tolerant battery systems, thrusters, lighting arrays, and control electronics for third-party manufacturers.UBW Naval – Dedicated to developing mission-specific submersible solutions for military and security applications, including surveillance, infrastructure protection, and search-and-rescue operations."This structure allows each division to act with clarity, autonomy and purpose," stated newly appointed CEO Wilbert Versteeg. "My mission is to make U-Boat Worx the most accessible, innovative, and operationally reliable submersible company in the world."Versteeg brings three decades of maritime industry experience to the role. His appointment coincides with growing demand for underwater solutions across multiple sectors, including tourism, research, and defense. The company has delivered more than 60 submersibles since its founding twenty years ago.The restructuring reflects U-Boat Worx's vertically integrated business model, which encompasses design, manufacturing, and operator training. According to Marketing Director Roy Heijdra, the new divisions will enable more targeted customer engagement across different market segments.The naval division's creation responds to increased government interest in submersible capabilities for maritime security applications. Meanwhile, the components division represents a strategic expansion into the broader underwater technology supply chain.No immediate changes to existing product lines or customer support structures were announced. The company maintains its headquarters in Breda, Netherlands, where all submersible manufacturing occurs.Industry analysts note the reorganization positions U-Boat Worx to capitalize on growing private and commercial interest in underwater exploration while expanding into the defense sector. The move follows recent deliveries to luxury yacht owners and cruise operators, as well as ongoing research collaborations with oceanographic institutions.Credits: StudioHansKeur/U-Boat Worx
July 24, 2025
Pershing has renewed its collaboration with British apparel brand Murphy&Nye to mark its 40th anniversary, introducing two new collections. The partnership, established in 2004, has produced yachting apparel and accessories since its inception.The Pershing 40th Anniversary Capsule Collection consists of five items: a performance polo shirt, a minimalist T-shirt, a weather-resistant windbreaker, a padded vest, and a cap. Each piece features commemorative embroidery celebrating Pershing’s four-decade legacy.Additionally, the brands unveiled the Owner Set, a seven-piece collection designed for Pershing yacht owners. It includes a waterproof travel bag, a unisex cap, a fully waterproof and windproof hooded jacket, UPF 50+ nylon polo shirts, and refined shorts. The technical fabrics prioritize functionality while maintaining a sleek aesthetic.The collections were previewed at the Venice Boat Show and will be available for purchase to both Pershing owners and Murphy&Nye customers. The Ferretti Group, led by Chief Executive Officer Alberto Galassi, is now one of the world’s leaders in the construction and sale of luxury yachts and pleasure vessels, with a unique portfolio of brands: Ferretti Yachts, Riva, Pershing, Itama, Mochi Craft, CRN, Custom Line and Wally.Credits: Ferretti Group
July 23, 2025
The 1995-built Benetti motor yacht Solafide has completed an extensive multi-million euro refit (2023-2025) and is now exclusively listed for sale with Camper & Nicholsons. The 499GT vessel underwent a complete transformation while retaining its classic Benetti lines.Measuring 45 meters in length with a steel hull, Solafide offers transatlantic range of 4,600 nautical miles at 12 knots. The refit included full hull and superstructure repainting, complete engine and generator rebuilds, new CMC electric stabilizers, and upgraded navigation systems.Tommaso Spadolini supervised the exterior redesign which created new alfresco dining areas and transformed the 120 sqm sundeck into a helicopter-capable space with hot tub. The aft deck now features fold-down terraces expanding the beach club area.Supernova Design Studio completely reimagined the interior with warm wood tones, onyx details and custom furnishings. The layout accommodates 12 guests in six cabins, including a main deck master suite with convertible office/lounge and four lower deck cabins (two doubles, two twins)."Solafide represents the perfect combination of classic Benetti quality and contemporary systems," said sales broker Della Pearce. The yacht's comprehensive refit earned a nomination for Best Refit at the 2025 World Superyacht Awards.The refit addressed all major systems while enhancing both guest amenities and operational capabilities. With its proven bluewater credentials and extensive recent upgrades, Solafide offers new owners a turnkey solution for global cruising.Credits: Benetti
July 23, 2025