#1. Pelorus
The photo taken by Josip Baresik shows the 115-meter Pelorus during her autumn cruise off the coast of Antibes, in the South of France.
Commissioned by a Saudi Arabian businessman, Pelorus was built at Lurssen yard in Bremen to the exterior design of Tim Heywood and interior styling of Terence Disdale. The 11th largest superyacht at the time of her launch in 2003 was acquired by Roman Abramovich the following year. The Russian billionaire had her extensively refitted at Blohm & Voss, adding a second helicopter pad, among other features. With a full-time crew of up to 46 members, apart from the security contingent, the superyacht remained in his ownership until 2007, when Abramovich’s ex-wife received Pelorus as part of her divorce settlement.
In 2011 the boat eventually passed to the Dreamworks co-founder, David Geffen, who sold her later in the same year to the Royal Family of Abu Dhabi for € 214 million.
However, last year Pelorus was again sold to a UK-based property developer, Samuel Tak Lee. The new owner and his son, Jimmy Lee, heir to the real-estate empire that stretches from Hong Kong and London to Geneva and Tokio, were reportedly making extensive use of the yacht throughout the summer.
#2. Dilbar
Previously seen in Porto Cervo in Italy, Barcelona and the South of France, the Lurssen 156-meter Dilbar has been again spotted berthing in the French Rivera.
Known throughout its highly secretive build as Project Omar, the mega-yacht was launched at Lurssen facility in 2015. Upon her delivery to the Russian billionaire Alisher Usmanov the following year, the boat was christened Dilbar after her owner’s mother. With her gross tonnage of 15.917 tons, she has officially become the world's largest yacht by volume.
The mega-yacht boasts exterior design by Espen Oeino and interior styling by Andrew Winch. Dilbar features a combined 3.800 square meters of living space, being able to host up to 40 guests and a crew of 80.
#3. Aviva
Built last year for Joe Lewis, whose net worth is estimated at $5,3 billion by Forbes, the 95-meter superyacht became the 4th Aviva in the UK billionaire’s fleet. The yacht was snapped in Sardinia shortly before she returned to Abeking & Rasmussen facility in Germany for service, where she is expected to remain until January.
Aviva boasts exterior and interior design by Reymond Langton that teamed up with Toby Silverton to developed the yacht’s sleek and elegant profile. The boat’s modern interior notably features a 20 metres x 10 metres x 6 metres tennis court.
Her efficient hull shape is said to reduce drag by up to 20%. While she cruises at the maximum speed of 30 knots, a very special hybrid drive system allows Aviva to run at up to 11 knots, using electric motors only.
#4. Kismet
Since her launch in 2014, Kismet had a busy time, making four crossings of the Atlantic, running to Pacific and back, cruising with her owner and chartering for 7 weeks this summer in the Mediterranean. This time the 95-meter Lurssen luxury yacht was spotted in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, in southeastern France.
Built by the German yard for Shahid Khan, Kismet features a modern exterior design of Espen Oeino and interior styling by Reymond Langton Design, which reflects inspiration in Art Deco, Art Nouveau and Japanese art.
The yacht accommodates 12 guests in 6 staterooms, with master suite boasting a private deck with a helipad. She has a tricky layout, featuring a number of conversation points, such as a Jacuzzi overlooking the sea on the upper deck, or a winding starecase, providing access to a dedicated observation deck. The skylounge conveys a more casual atmosphere due to its beach house style decor.
#5. Silver Fast
This is a photo of the 77-meter Silver Fast, staged by Guillaume Plisson to show “how the industry of yachting crosses the industry of aviation”, in the photographer’s own words.
Launched by Silver Yachts in 2015, the boat features an exterior by the renowned naval architect Espen Oeino and represents the most advanced, eco-friendly and fuel efficient vessel in the Silver series. Considered to be the world's largest and fastest - in terms of length to speed ratio - all-aluminum motor-yacht with conventional propulsion, she has proven her capability to cross the Atlantic at an average speed of 22 knots.
Silver Fast was a passion project for her owner, Guido Krass, a keen sailor and German industrialist, who happens to be the founder of the Australian shipyard.
The photo taken by Josip Baresik shows the 115-meter Pelorus during her autumn cruise off the coast of Antibes, in the South of France.
Commissioned by a Saudi Arabian businessman, Pelorus was built at Lurssen yard in Bremen to the exterior design of Tim Heywood and interior styling of Terence Disdale. The 11th largest superyacht at the time of her launch in 2003 was acquired by Roman Abramovich the following year. The Russian billionaire had her extensively refitted at Blohm & Voss, adding a second helicopter pad, among other features. With a full-time crew of up to 46 members, apart from the security contingent, the superyacht remained in his ownership until 2007, when Abramovich’s ex-wife received Pelorus as part of her divorce settlement.
In 2011 the boat eventually passed to the Dreamworks co-founder, David Geffen, who sold her later in the same year to the Royal Family of Abu Dhabi for € 214 million.
However, last year Pelorus was again sold to a UK-based property developer, Samuel Tak Lee. The new owner and his son, Jimmy Lee, heir to the real-estate empire that stretches from Hong Kong and London to Geneva and Tokio, were reportedly making extensive use of the yacht throughout the summer.
#2. Dilbar
Previously seen in Porto Cervo in Italy, Barcelona and the South of France, the Lurssen 156-meter Dilbar has been again spotted berthing in the French Rivera.
Known throughout its highly secretive build as Project Omar, the mega-yacht was launched at Lurssen facility in 2015. Upon her delivery to the Russian billionaire Alisher Usmanov the following year, the boat was christened Dilbar after her owner’s mother. With her gross tonnage of 15.917 tons, she has officially become the world's largest yacht by volume.
The mega-yacht boasts exterior design by Espen Oeino and interior styling by Andrew Winch. Dilbar features a combined 3.800 square meters of living space, being able to host up to 40 guests and a crew of 80.
#3. Aviva
Built last year for Joe Lewis, whose net worth is estimated at $5,3 billion by Forbes, the 95-meter superyacht became the 4th Aviva in the UK billionaire’s fleet. The yacht was snapped in Sardinia shortly before she returned to Abeking & Rasmussen facility in Germany for service, where she is expected to remain until January.
Aviva boasts exterior and interior design by Reymond Langton that teamed up with Toby Silverton to developed the yacht’s sleek and elegant profile. The boat’s modern interior notably features a 20 metres x 10 metres x 6 metres tennis court.
Her efficient hull shape is said to reduce drag by up to 20%. While she cruises at the maximum speed of 30 knots, a very special hybrid drive system allows Aviva to run at up to 11 knots, using electric motors only.
#4. Kismet
Since her launch in 2014, Kismet had a busy time, making four crossings of the Atlantic, running to Pacific and back, cruising with her owner and chartering for 7 weeks this summer in the Mediterranean. This time the 95-meter Lurssen luxury yacht was spotted in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, in southeastern France.
Built by the German yard for Shahid Khan, Kismet features a modern exterior design of Espen Oeino and interior styling by Reymond Langton Design, which reflects inspiration in Art Deco, Art Nouveau and Japanese art.
The yacht accommodates 12 guests in 6 staterooms, with master suite boasting a private deck with a helipad. She has a tricky layout, featuring a number of conversation points, such as a Jacuzzi overlooking the sea on the upper deck, or a winding starecase, providing access to a dedicated observation deck. The skylounge conveys a more casual atmosphere due to its beach house style decor.
#5. Silver Fast
This is a photo of the 77-meter Silver Fast, staged by Guillaume Plisson to show “how the industry of yachting crosses the industry of aviation”, in the photographer’s own words.
Launched by Silver Yachts in 2015, the boat features an exterior by the renowned naval architect Espen Oeino and represents the most advanced, eco-friendly and fuel efficient vessel in the Silver series. Considered to be the world's largest and fastest - in terms of length to speed ratio - all-aluminum motor-yacht with conventional propulsion, she has proven her capability to cross the Atlantic at an average speed of 22 knots.
Silver Fast was a passion project for her owner, Guido Krass, a keen sailor and German industrialist, who happens to be the founder of the Australian shipyard.
Gulf Craft has delivered the first unit of its 32.3-meter Majesty 100 Terrace series following its debut at the 2025 Dubai International Boat Show. The fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP) yacht features a semi-displacement hull designed by Dutch firm Phathom Studio.The model's distinctive features include multiple outdoor terraces, fold-down balconies, and a private owner's terrace on the foredeck with 270-degree views. The owner's cabin incorporates floor-to-ceiling glass and skylights, with direct access to the forward terrace. Accommodation includes five cabins for 10 guests and crew quarters for six.With a 199GT volume and 7.2-meter beam, the yacht reaches a top speed of 20 knots powered by twin MAN engines. At a cruising speed of 12 knots, the range extends to 1,050 nautical miles. The upper deck features a hot tub and sunpad area with glass panels that illuminate the owner's terrace below.The Majesty 100 Terrace follows the 34.1-meter Majesty 111 model, sharing similar interior layouts but with a redesigned semi-displacement hull. Gulf Craft currently has two units of the new model under construction at its Umm al-Qaywayn shipyard in the UAE.Since the company’s inception in 1982, Gulf Craft has grown to become one of the top seven shipyards in the world: once a builder of small fishing boats in its modest premises, which was a genuine passion for Gulf Craft, they then established their credentials as a leader of innovation and technology in the yachting industry. With five brands in their product portfolio ranging from 31 to 175 feet, Gulf Craft manufactures yachts and boats that appeal to a wide audience, such as touring passenger vessels, Silvercraft family day boats, Oryx Sport Cruisers, Nomad Explorer Yachts, and the flagship Majesty Yachts.Credits: Gulf Craft
August 1, 2025
Dutch yacht builder Oceanco has transitioned to new ownership under American entrepreneur Gabe Newell, while previous owners the Barwani family retain their stake in Turkish shipyard Turquoise Yachts. The ownership change follows Oceanco's legacy of constructing notable superyachts including the 110-meter Kaos, 109-meter Bravo Eugenia, 106-meter Black Pearl, and 127-meter Koru.Newell assumes ownership with stated intentions to maintain Oceanco's operational focus on craftsmanship and workforce development rather than implementing financial restructuring. The new owner has emphasized continuity in the shipyard's human-centered approach to yacht construction.Gabe Newel"Gabe Newell is not entering this world as a financier or a strategist, but as a hands-on visionary who respects the sea, the craft, and above all, the people who make it possible," stated the company's transition announcement.Dr. BarwaniThe Barwani family, Oceanco's previous owners since 2010, will continue their yachting industry involvement through Turquoise Yachts, which specializes in custom builds up to 77 meters. Oceanco's current project portfolio and management team are expected to remain unchanged under the new ownership structure.Oceanco was founded in 1987. Right now it is a world-class builder of custom superyachts up to the 140 meters range. Oceanco works with world-known designers such as Terence Disdale, Nuvolari-Lenard, Espen Oeino, Sam Sorgiovanni, Igor Lobanov, Tim Heywood and Andrew Winch to create some of the timeless and award-winning yachts afloat today.Credits: Oceanco
August 1, 2025
The 2025 Monaco Yacht Show will host "Tribute to Yachting," a photographic exhibition by French photographer Guillaume Plisson. The exhibition will display 100 large-format images throughout Port Hercule from September 24-27, integrated with the show's layout.A preview selection will debut during the Grand Opening Night on September 23. The exhibition aims to provide visual interludes for attendees while highlighting emotional aspects of yachting beyond technical specifications."This collaboration reflects our desire to celebrate the human side of yachting - the stories and quiet beauty beyond the surface," said Gaëlle Tallarida, Managing Director of Monaco Yacht Show.Plisson's work documents various yachting elements including design, operations, and lifestyle. "The exhibition serves as a condensed retrospective and tribute to those who make yachting possible," Plisson stated, acknowledging industry support for his photographic access over the years.The exhibition aligns with the show's focus on innovation, design, sustainability and lifestyle. It represents an effort to engage visitors emotionally with yachting culture while maintaining the event's commercial focus.Credits: MYS
August 1, 2025
Northrop & Johnson has announced the lease through donation of the 43.6-meter Feadship motor yacht True North, built in 1987 by Van Lent shipyard. The vessel's recent $4 million refit in 2021 addressed critical systems while preserving its classic Dutch craftsmanship.The comprehensive refit program included complete hull plating renewal and tank work to satisfy Bureau Veritas 35-year survey requirements. Mechanical upgrades focused on the twin CAT 3508 DI-TA engines, while new Quantum zero-speed stabilizers were installed to enhance onboard comfort. Guest areas received modernized accommodations, including renovated Crema Marfil marble bathrooms in the full-beam master suite.True North has compiled an extensive cruising history, having completed multiple transatlantic crossings and operated successfully in both tropical and temperate climates. The yacht's robust construction and 4,000-nautical-mile range at 11 knots have supported operations throughout the Mediterranean, Caribbean, and Northern Europe.Current configuration accommodates 16 guests across five staterooms, including four convertible guest cabins with multiple bedding options. Outdoor amenities feature a sundeck hot tub, swim-up bar, and expanded swim platform. The yacht's service areas utilize dedicated crew staircases to maintain operational efficiency."True North represents the enduring quality of Feadship construction," noted Northrop & Johnson brokers Kevin Merrigan and Kristen Klein. "The recent refit ensures this classic yacht meets contemporary expectations while retaining its original character."The donation lease arrangement provides for the yacht's continued operation while supporting the donor's philanthropic objectives. True North remains certified for global cruising following its recent survey compliance and mechanical upgrades.Based in the Netherlands and with roots dating back to 1849, Feadship was formed as a group in 1949 as a marketing partnership between six Dutch shipyards, de Vries Lentch, Van de Stadt, Witsen & Vis, Akerboom, De Vries Scheepsbouw and Van Lent Shipyard, and De Voogt Naval Architects. Feadship is well-known as one of the Netherlands’ most elite yacht builders and delivers superyachts from 50–100+ meters in length.Credits: Northrop & Johnson
July 31, 2025
Swiss energy company Repower has unveiled Lucietta, Venice's first fully electric water taxi, marking a significant advancement in sustainable marine transportation for the historic city. The 9.3-meter vessel, designed by Nauta Design and built by Murano's Cantiere Serenella shipyard, debuted at the Venice Boat Show and will serve during the 2025 Venice Film Festival before entering regular service.Constructed using a combination of traditional Venetian boatbuilding techniques and modern sustainable materials, Lucietta features a lightweight carbon fiber hull and incorporates recycled Murano glass elements developed by local startup Rehub. The construction process maintained Venice's strict dimensional constraints for canal navigation while implementing contemporary electric propulsion technology.The vessel is powered by a 200kW electric motor with a 180 kWh battery system specifically optimized for Venice's operating conditions. Performance specifications include a top speed of 30 knots (55.5 km/h) and sufficient battery capacity for a full 8-hour workday at typical lagoon speeds of 7-20 km/h. Compared to conventional diesel water taxis, Lucietta completely eliminates direct emissions during operation and reduces energy consumption by approximately 60%.Environmental impact projections indicate each Lucietta water taxi will prevent about 12 tons of CO2 emissions annually while completely eliminating particulate matter emissions. The electric propulsion system also reduces noise pollution from 85 dB to 45 dB - an 85% decrease that significantly improves the acoustic environment of Venice's canals. Over its operational lifetime, the electric taxi is expected to have 30% lower maintenance costs than combustion engine models."Electric boating represents a crucial part of the sustainable mobility revolution," stated Fabio Bocchiola, CEO of Repower Italia, noting the European electric boating market is projected to reach $13 billion by 2030. The project builds on Repower's previous electric boat initiative that received a Compasso d'Oro honorable mention in 2020.Nauta Design's Massimo Gino explained the design process: "We studied original taxi designs and interviewed operators to create a modern electric version that respects Venice's strict dimensional constraints for canals and bridges." The collaboration with local artisans at Cantiere Serenella ensured the preservation of traditional Venetian craftsmanship while implementing sustainable technologies.Lucietta can accommodate up to 14 passengers and will initially serve during high-profile Venice events before expanding to regular water taxi service. The introduction coincides with Venice's increasing restrictions on combustion engine vessels in its sensitive lagoon ecosystem, positioning electric water transportation as a viable solution for the city's unique mobility challenges.Credits: Nauta Design
July 31, 2025