1. Pelorus sold to Chinese billionaire
Pelorus, the 115-meter superyacht built in 2003 by Lurssen, has reportedly been sold to Chinese billionaire, Samuel Tak Lee according to several sources in the industry. Built for the Saudi owner of 72m Coral Island, Pelorus was the 11th largest yacht in the world at the time of her launch and became Lurssen's newest flagship. A few months after delivery, the owner decided however to sell his masterpiece and it was Russian billionaire, Roman Abramovich who came in with the highest bid to acquire the superyacht.
South China Morning Post linked Malaysian financier Jho Low to 91.5m yacht Equanimity, which has recently entered Hong Kong with an unclear purpose of stay. The yachting press often cited Jho Low as the owner of the vessel, but his lawyers have denied this. You may know Low from his alleged involvement in the 1MDB scandal. Some sources claim that he sold some artwork earlier this year, giving rise to speculation the yacht may be sold to raise funds for Low and his associates before it can be seized by the US authorities.
Monaco-based design studio The A group revealed the first renderings of 110m superyacht concept. The exterior design of Acuore is a harmonious combination of pure curves and taut lines resulting in a clean and sleek profile. The design signature of The A group, the “glass shark fin”, located on the top deck provides this area with exceptional brightness and adds an original touch to the overall profile.
Ester III, the 66-meter superyacht presented by Lurssen at last year's Monaco Yacht Show, is now listed for sale asking €79,500,000 through Fraser Yachts. Originally known as Project Green, Ester III was delivered to Russian banker, Georgy Bedzhamov in 2014 and became his newest flagship, according to Forbes. His previous yacht, the 51-meter Codecasa, Ester II was listed for sale shortly after asking €14,000,000.
Madrid-based Barracuda Yacht Design has presented 50m “pocket size” concept for an explorer yacht, which offers the ‘go-anywhere’ capability and sense of luxury available from a larger size vessel. With just 2.30m draft (compared to say 4.00m draft for an equivalent 80m), it’s not hard to imagine this full-of character yacht accessing the kind of secluded anchorage, or hard-to-reach viewing spot, that longer length, deeper-draft yachts would simply not be able to reach.
Motor yacht A, which is reportedly for sale at $300 million, has been spotted yesterday morning in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. M/Y A was built by Blohm+Voss in 2008. Designed by Philippe Starck, the vessel remains the most talked-about yacht on the seas. A is capable of accommodating 14 guests in 7 luxurious cabins, as well as a crew of 42. Performance wise she is powered by twin MAN engines of 6,035hp each and is capable of reaching a maximum speed of 23 knots and a cruising speed of 19 knots.
Timur Bozca, who has won Boat International Media and Oceanco’s Young Designer of the Year in 2015, presented yacht concept Isurus, which is the ultimate blend of refined performance and minimalist luxury. The Isurus is a 24m power yacht which is a striking beauty with intelligent elements. The dynamic abilities of the concept are made explicit through the muscular elegance of its bodywork. The lines are inspired by Shortfin Mako shark. The philosophy of Isurus’s design is everything for a reason, even unique asymmetrical front part. Every line, surface and detail of the design enhance the yacht’s performance and comfort.
Karianna, 54m Benetti superyacht, has been recently delivered. Previously known as Lady Michelle, the vessel was relaunched for a new owner. Karianna features exterior by the shipyard's in-house design team and interior by Francois Zuretti. She is able to accommodate 12 guests in 6 cabins including a master suite, three double cabins, a convertible guest room and one twin room, as well as a crew of 11. The superyacht's key features include a spa pool and sun deck relaxation area.
Spanish shipyard Astondoa Yachts has launched hull #4 in its Astondoa 80 GLX line. The new 24.92m yacht has been recently transported to Miami, where she will be handed over to the owner.
Benetti has launched hull number one of the new Mediterraneo 116 line for a US owner. Named Oli, the model was first presented at the Cannes Yachting Festival in September 2015. Measuring 33.5m, the yacht was designed by Giorgio Maria Cassetta. Special feature of Oli is her design of the superstructure that provides a sensation of luminosity and the flow of the sections is fluid with no interruptions in the lines of the pure design. Decks are lengthened towards the stern, moving the visual center of gravity amidships giving the her lines a balanced, dynamic and compact aspect.
Columbus Yachts has started building its new 48-meter Crossover model at Palumbo Superyachts' Savona shipyard. The steel-hulled explorer with aluminum superstructures follows two previously sold Crossover units (42m and 47m), marking the shipyard's first self-financed project in this series.Designed by Hydro Tec, the vessel features an 8.6-meter beam and 2.75-meter draft, optimized for stability and long-range cruising. The exterior combines explorer-style proportions with a bulbous bow and streamlined stern for ocean-going capability. Key features include a multifunctional aft deck that can store a large tender or convert into a pool and lounge area.Accommodation includes six cabins for 12 guests, with the owner's suite on the upper deck and a VIP cabin on the main deck. The naval architecture was developed jointly by Hydro Tec and the shipyard's engineering team.No delivery date or price was disclosed. The Crossover series targets owners seeking a balance between expedition capability and contemporary yacht design.Founded in 2008 under Palumbo Superyachts, Columbus Yachts combines 50+ years of maritime expertise with modern yacht-building innovation. The brand gained recognition after launching its first 54m superyacht Prima in 2011 and later pioneering hybrid propulsion technology, earning RINA certification for its Sport Hybrid 40m.Specializing in semi-custom and full-custom builds (37m–120m), Columbus offers four lines: Atlantique, Crossover, Sport, and Classic. Its flagship 80m Dragon exemplifies its craftsmanship. As part of Palumbo Superyachts, the brand provides end-to-end owner support alongside sister yards ISA Yachts, Mondomarine, and Extra Yachts.Credits: Columbus Yachts
June 30, 2025
The 34th Monaco Yacht Show will take place from September 24-27, 2025, featuring approximately 560 exhibitors across Port Hercule. The event will display 120 superyachts, including 50 new builds from 2025, alongside 60 luxury tenders.Organizers have introduced a new sustainability program developed with the Water Revolution Foundation, highlighting exhibitors advancing environmental initiatives. The show's thematic zones include the Yacht Design & Innovation Hub for new concepts, the Adventure Area showcasing over 40 luxury vehicles and water toys, and the upper deck lounge for luxury goods and services."The exhibitor list helps future owners identify key contacts for custom builds, refits, or charters within an exclusive, innovation-focused environment," said Gaëlle Tallarida, Managing Director of the Monaco Yacht Show.The current exhibitor roster includes shipyards, designers, equipment manufacturers, and luxury service providers. The list remains subject to updates through summer 2025.Credits: MYS
June 30, 2025
The latest 80-meter Amels Limited Editions superyacht has arrived at Damen Yachting's Vlissingen shipyard in the Netherlands after construction at their Galatz facility in Romania. The vessel will now undergo full outfitting in preparation for delivery in 2027.Project Manager Danker Rijk stated: "After an impressive launch in our Galatz shipyard, we are delighted to welcome this Amels 80 to Vlissingen to commence the outfitting phase. This is an exciting milestone toward delivering another exceptional yacht on schedule."The 2,175 GT superyacht features exterior design by Espen Øino and interiors by Sinot Yacht Architecture & Design. With accommodations for 14 guests and 21 crew members, the vessel represents Damen Yachting's combination of custom features with proven yacht-building technology.The Amels 80 follows the Limited Editions series' approach of offering semi-custom superyachts with reduced build times compared to fully custom projects. No further details about the owner or specific custom features were disclosed.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
June 27, 2025
Flexjet and Ferretti Group have introduced Riva Volare, a custom aircraft cabin design inspired by Riva motoryachts. The collaboration brings nautical styling to Flexjet's Gulfstream G650 jets and Sikorsky S-76 helicopters, targeting ultra-high-net-worth travelers.The Gulfstream G650 configuration accommodates 12-15 passengers for flights up to 16 hours, while two Sikorsky S-76 helicopters will operate in Florida and a new Milan-based service covering Italy and the French Riviera. Ferretti Group clients will receive preferential access to the helicopter operations.The design blends elements from Riva's 1960s Aquarama with contemporary Aquariva models, using artisanal materials and distinctive patterns. The interiors were developed through collaboration between both companies' design teams.Kenn Ricci and Alberto Galassi"I have long admired the iconic style of Riva, and seeing this brought to life in our aircraft is nothing short of exceptional," said Flexjet Chairman Kenn Ricci. Ferretti Group CEO Alberto Galassi added: "Riva Volare is another splendid result of our collaboration with Flexjet, a brand with which we share the same passion for constantly raising quality standards."The design was unveiled June 26 at Milano Prime Linate Airport, with displays of the aircraft alongside a Riva Aquariva Special yacht. No pricing details were disclosed.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
June 27, 2025
Italian shipyard AB Yachts, part of Next Yacht Group, has unveiled the AB 110S, a sportier version of its AB 110 model. The 33.7-meter yacht marks AB Yachts' first collaboration with automotive design firm EXE Design, incorporating elements such as a raked windshield and lightweight profile."We also boast over 20 years of experience in naval architecture. [And] this cross-sector approach is the real added value of our work," said Stefano Bedoni of EXE Design.Key features include multiple retractable systems: a sliding cockpit cover, a sunroof between the helm and saloon, and a hardtop that can cover either the helm station or sunpad. The main deck integrates a sunbathing area and a bar serving both indoor and outdoor spaces. A forward "flying couch" provides elevated seating with panoramic views.Powered by three MAN V12X-2200 engines, the AB 110S reaches 48 knots. The engine room is fully soundproofed to minimize noise and vibrations. No pricing or delivery details were disclosed.Italian shipyard AB Yachts was founded in 1992. In 2001, AB Yachts was acquired by the Fipa Group. Today Next Yacht Group is the owner of the historic Maiora, AB Yachts, and CBI Navi brands. AB Yachts range consists of semi-displacement yachts from 17.70 to 42 meters.Credits: AB Yachts
June 26, 2025