#20. 7 of the superyachts not to miss at Monaco Grand Prix 2019
With the atmosphere incomparable to any other sporting event, the Monaco Grand prix stands almost distinct from the sport it was born from. Returning to the principality for its 77th run, this year’s race took place from May 23 to May 26, with royalty, celebrities and billionaires flooding renowned harbour front of Monaco and a selection of luxury yachts lined up opposite the track.
In June, a 47.7-metre Heesen charter superyacht Blue Magic lost control and hit a pier at the port of Santa Maria di Leuca, Italy. The sailing yacht was crushed between the dock and the bow of Blue Magic. At the time of collision, the sailing vessel was not occupied, and fortunately no one was injured in the accident.
The latest designs of superyachts are mammoth and sometimes so extravagant that it’s difficult to imagine where yacht designers can realistically go next. In the world of luxury yachting, it is very important to create a sensational visual and tactile experience. Here are four of the world’s impressive yacht concepts.
Originally delivered by Abeking & Rasmussen in 2012, the 60.9-metre Excellence V remains one of the most voluminous yachts in her size. After her sale at the asking price of €69,500,000 in May, the yacht was renamed Arience. Initially, the vessel was built for American billionaire Herb Chambers, becoming his fifth superyacht.
Australian naval architecture company Incat Crowther has opened up about their involvement in the creation of the long-awaited 66-metre support yacht Hodor by Spanish builder Astilleros Armón. The vessel is designed to support the new 87-metre Feadship superyacht Lonian. First time for the Shadow Cat range, Hodor’s platform offers vast amounts of deck and storage space, flexibility, stability, efficiency and capability.
In January, American media executive Oprah Winfrey was spotted on David Geffen's $300 million 138-metre superyacht Rising Sun in St Barts, celebrating her 65th birthday. The yacht was built by Lürssen in 2004, with the design of Jon Bannenberg. David Geffen, a billionaire with a net worth of $6 billion, co-owned Rising Sun along with Larry Ellison from 2004, before he bought it in 2010.
In the early hours of August 7, 2019, the 56.39-metre superyacht Lady D, anchored at Phuket Grand Marina, Thailand caught fire. The fire started at about 8am, shortly blazing beyond firefighters ability to control. With at least 3,000 litres of fuel on board, the burning yacht was moved around 500 metres farther from the marina to prevent fire from spreading over other vessels. With no injuries reported, the yacht totally burnt down.
Combining performance and practicality, sportfisher yachts are always built with game-fish in mind. They do not need to be large, and the key qualities such yachts should provide are comfort, high speed, stability, and reliability. In average, they measure 29.6 metres with interior volume of 160 GT. Still, some vessels stand out, exceeding general sizes. Yacht Harbour takes a look over 5 of the largest fishing yachts built.
One of the most prominent deliveries of 2019, the 136-metre Lürssen superyacht Flying Fox caused vast social media buzz this summer, rumouring the vessel belongs to the world’s richest person, Jeff Bezos. According to Business Insider, a representative of Amazon responded to the media, the Amazon CEO did not own the superyacht, and they had no information on who it belonged to.
The world's largest superyacht. 181-metre explorer REV hit the water in Tulcea, Romania on August 22 for the first time, then within approximately 30 days towed to the Brattvåg shipyard on the west coast of Norway for more construction work. The giant vessel is scheduled for delivery in early 2021, aimed to surpass the current largest superyacht in the world in terms of LOA, the 180.6-metre Azzam.
Photo courtesy: Ken Deadman via DorsetECHO
One of the world's largest sailing superyachts, the 106-metre Black Pearl was seen docked at Portland Harbour this summer. The Black Pearl was built in 2017 by Dutch yard Oceanco, contending for the title of the largest sailing yacht in the world against the 143-metre Nobiskrug Sailing Yacht A ever since. Despite her larger size, some experts consider the latter rather a sail-assisted motor yacht than a sailing vessel.
Dutch custom yacht builder Oceanco presented its new 105-metre superyacht concept at Dubai International Boat Show 2019. The new vessel is christened Esquel after a meteorite composed of metal and crystals, and she is conceived to explore vast territories even across the North Pole and the South Pole. Her 200-square-metre main deck features aft deck with glass superstructure, where a swimming pool and panoramic spa areas can also be found. Furthermore, the deck can house different kinds of locked containers, extra tenders or off-road vehicles.
Irish UFC fighter and superstar Conor McGregor ordered a new yacht. He shot a video on Instagram of himself, flicking through the brochure of his new customized yacht. As seen on the video, he ordered new Prestige 750 yacht, which has price of around $3,4 million, without any extra additions. McGregor's net worth is estimated at around $100 million, according to Forbes.
142-metre Project Redwood was launched by Lürssen in January 2019. The details are coming from brokerage company Moran Yacht & Ship, which sold the yacht. This vessel is the largest yacht ever sold and built by a brokerage company in the history of yachting. Designed by the team at Nuvolari & Lenard, Project Redwood is being built to a Moran Yacht & Ship specification and her construction is being overseen by them with completion scheduled to 2020.
Photo Credit: BackGrid via The Sun
Currently the 10th largest superyacht in the world and one of the most futuristic ones, the 142.8-metre sailing yacht A has been spotted in Monaco this summer. The vessel is owned by a Russian industrialist tycoon Andrey Melnichenko, whose net worth is estimated at $13.4 billion by Forbes. Although her 142.8-metre LOA would give her the title of largest sailing yacht in the world, many experts rather consider her more of a hybrid due to her technical classification as a sail-assisted motor yacht.
The 182.9-metre research expedition vessel REV, the world's largest superyacht, is taking shape, scheduled for delivery in early 2021. REV has been commissioned by Norwegian ocean research company Rosellinis Four-10, owned by Norwegian industrialist billionaire Kjell Inge Roekke. Built for environmental research missions in partnership with WWF Norway, the Research Expedition Vessel (REV) will also be available for charter for recreational purposes and expeditions. She will offer accommodation to up to 60 scientists and 30 crew during research expeditions.
LuxWrap, a company that makes its specialty in yacht and superyacht vinyl finishing, has completed a transformation of a 53-metre superyacht Belami.com, formerly known under the name Kinta. In a non-traditional way for yachts of her size, the vessel was covered with 600 square metres of golden vinyl coating with a mirror effect.
Korean designer Chulhun Park and luxury yacht builder Palmer Johnson announced their plans o a new 229-metre superyacht concept Valkyrie, but no contract signed yet and it is unknown whther she is actually to be built. This megayacht would become the largest private vessel ever build, with an approximate cost of $800 milliom. She would stretch to the length of more than two football fields, boasting her own casino and art gallery.
The 136-metre Lürssen was delivered and named Flying Fox. With an exterior by Espen Oeino and an interior by Mark Berryman, the yacht's key features include two helipads, capable of hosting the largest helicopters out there. Another highlight of the 136-meter Flying Fox is the large swimming pool located aft of the main deck. The superyacht also boasts large sea terraces, swim platforms for watersports.
Dutch shipyard Oceanco delivered the 109-metre superyacht Bravo Eugenia to US billionaire and owner of the Dallas Cowboys NFL franchise, Jerry Jones, in January 2019. The yacht was technically launched in 2017. One of the largest Dutch vessels, the 109-metre features Nuvolari Lenard exteriors and interior by Reymond Langton, with over 4,000GT of volume. Stretching across a 16.3-meter beam, the yacht is capable of reaching a top speed of 17.5 knots.
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
Cantiere del Pardo has introduced the Grand Soleil 65 Performance, a performance-oriented evolution of its 20-meter sailing yacht series. Following the Long Cruise version, this model emphasizes speed and responsiveness while retaining onboard comfort. The yacht made its debut at the Palma International Boat Show in May.As part of the Plus Line for vessels over 18 meters, the 65 Performance involves owners in the customization process from initial design stages. Franco Corazza, project manager for the Plus Line, stated: "The 65-footer is the result of a totally Made-in-Italy design process that brings together a team of professionals representing Italian excellence in the yachting sector." Naval architecture was handled by Matteo Polli, structural design by Marco Lostuzzi, and layout by Nauta Design.Environmental considerations include sustainable teak, laminated glass insulation, linen-reinforced composites, water-based paints, and solar panels. The hull utilizes epoxy-infused biaxial fiberglass and carbon reinforcements, with construction processes meeting strict quality certifications.Matteo Polli's design adapts features from the larger Grand Soleil 72, including a V-shaped bow for reduced drag and improved light-wind performance. The sail plan positions the mast aft to maximize the foretriangle, with a self-tacking jib as standard for simplified handling. Underwater, an inverted T-keel and single rudder balance stability and maneuverability, offering draft options of 3.5 meters (standard), 3.0 meters (shallow), or telescopic configurations.Nauta Design optimized deck space and interior flow, lowering the saloon to align with cabin levels for improved continuity. The coachroof's tapered profile distinguishes it from the Long Cruise version's panoramic windows. Massimo Gino of Nauta Design noted: "Our challenge was to convey a sense of motion and energy while preserving comfort, functionality, and style."Interior materials are customizable, with owners selecting finishes from the shipyard’s portfolio. No pricing or delivery timelines were disclosed.Cantiere del Pardo was founded in 1973 in Italy. Pardo Yachts, the brand of Cantiere del Pardo dedicated to powerboats, was born in 2016. The first model, the Pardo 43, was launched in 2017. Grand Soleil was founded in 1973 and is famous for its yachts, which ensure performance for regattas, autonomous long-distance navigation, as well as a high level of sustainable consciousness.Credits: Grand Soleil Yachts
June 26, 2025
Denison Yachting has announced the availability of the fourth hull in the Conrad C144S series, priced at EUR32 million with a two-year delivery window. The vessel follows three previous models, including the award-winning Ace (hull 1), Extra Time (hull 2), and the upcoming Moonlight (hull 3), the latter two sold by Denison.Built by Conrad Shipyard in Gdańsk, Poland, the 44-meter C144S is a full-displacement superyacht with a steel hull and aluminum superstructure. The design features exterior styling by Reymond Langton Design and naval architecture by Diana Yacht Design, emphasizing seakeeping performance. The "S" designation refers to the straight bow, which increases interior volume while maintaining a streamlined profile.Interior options include the original M2 Atelier concept seen on earlier models or alternative designs, such as Nauta Design’s understated approach chosen for Moonlight. The yacht accommodates 10–12 guests across a full-beam owner’s suite and four VIP cabins, with crew quarters for nine.Key features include a sundeck with a hot tub, infinity pool, and outdoor cinema, along with a beach club featuring a wet bar and wellness area. Storage capacity includes a 7-meter tender, two jet skis, and multiple SeaBobs.With a transoceanic range exceeding 4,000 nautical miles, the C144S cruises at 11 knots (max 13.8 knots) and complies with IMO Tier III and Lloyd’s MCA LY3 standards."The C144S represents a proven platform with award-winning design and strong value in the 500GT segment," said Denison broker Alex Clarke. Delivery is scheduled for 2027.Conrad Shipyard is located in Gdansk, Poland and specializes in building steel, and aluminum luxury yachts ranging from 24 to 100 meters in length.Credits: Denison Yachting
June 26, 2025