Superyachts are fascinating creations destined to the world's highest net worth individuals, and for that reason alone the space has always drawn interest from the mainstream public. Yet, many surprising events in yachting are often overlooked even by most knowledgeable experts. Yacht Harbour looks at yacht trivia you should really know.
#1 Donald Trump used to own Amels
Back before he became US President, Donald Trump was a prolific billionaire most known in yachting for his 86-meter Trump Princess, which he bought from Adnan Khashoggi in 1988 for $28 million.
"Khashoggi probably spent $200 million building this yacht, probably the best yacht ever built." Trump then commented in the media. "I purchased it for a business. I use it for my hotels. I use it for a lot of different charities."
Following the purchase, Trump spent near $10 million at Amels to refit the yacht according to the LA Times. In June 1989, he announced he would build the world's largest yacht, 'something in excess of 400 feet long', for which he was accepting bids from shipyards. Amels, then owned by a group of 4 British investors, won that bid to build a 128-meter Trump Princess II.
This project, in part, led to financial problems for Amels, a significantly smaller shipyard then. A year later, Trump then acquired Amels, shortly after canceling the construction of Trump Princess II, as was announced in 1990. In September of that year, he sold Amels to American businessman, Peter Kutell due to financial problems according to Dessert News. For nearly half a year, however, Trump essentially Amels.
#2 Business Insider thought a $4.8 billion yacht was sold in Asia
In the summer of 2011, Stuart Hughes, a UK-based designer, claimed he had been commissioned for the world's most expensive yacht, the 100ft History Supreme. Hughes claimed on his website that the yacht was bought by a Malaysian businessman for £3 billion. 100,000 kilograms of solid gold and platinum were supposed to be used for this project in addition to railings and anchor made of precious metals.
With such a reported price, the story spread like wildfire across national media based on Hughes' statement. Italy-based, Baia Yachts however later came forward with a statement saying that the story was fake and that Hughes had taken pictures from their website, which he then tried to pass off as his own concept.
#3 A Broker Pretended He Sold A 222-meter yacht
In October 2014, the yachting community was baffled to read in mainstream media about 222m Triple Deuce, a project supposedly sold by 4Yacht. Not only was the length of the superyacht baffling but the wording of the press release was also off-putting. The project, for which the designers were never announced, was supposed to have an "agressive" delivery schedule and to supposedly be handed over to the client in 2018.
With us now in 2019, it is clear no signs of such a project were never real, as Yacht Harbour first reported in 2016. CNN and many other mainstream media were, however, quick to publish that the world's largest yacht was now Triple Deuce.
#4 An owner's captain asked for a €3 million commission to help broker a deal
In early 2004, the late Boris Berezovsky set out to build a 110-meter yacht at Lurssen to be called Darius, at a price of €148,540,000 plus interior fitting costs. As the economic crisis hit, he was unable to pay the seventh tranche in May 2008 and decided to put the yacht up for sale for €300 million as it was a few months away from delivery.
Eventually, the listing agent, through a second broker found a pathway to a serious potential client via his captain. To bring the deal forward to his employer, the captain asked for a €3 million commission as was later shown in court fillings. Eventually a deal closed directly between the buyer and the seller for €240 million.
#5 The world's largest yacht will be used to carry scientists
Brain child of Norwegian Billionaire Kjell Inge Rokke, the 182.9-meter REV will become the world's largest superyacht. Instead of being simply a luxurious vessel, however, its owner intends to let WWF operate it as a base for scientists to help research and protect the oceans. "The REV will be a platform for gathering knowledge." Rokke explained.
"There may not be any economic rationale for the private construction of such a ship, but the case is compelling from the ocean's point of view." Rokke detailed.
When not used for research, REV will also engage in traditional charter activity for ultra high net worth individuals on a weekly basis, with the ability to carry up to 36 guests and a crew of 54 under that configuration.
#6 All of the top yacht shows are owned by the same conglomerate
Initially founded in the 1990s by Maurice Cohen, the Monaco Yacht Show used to be a much smaller event than it is today. In 1994, the rights to it were acquired by show management company IRR, which organised at the time the much larger Superyacht de Nice show. Ultimately, IRR itself was acquired by Informa, along with the MYS.
With a market cap of near $5 billion, Informa now often highlights the Monaco Yacht Show as one of its most well known events. In 2017, it tightened its grasp on the yacht show market by acquiring the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show, the Palm Beach Boat Show and 3 others in the US for $133 million. Now all major yachting shows are owned by Informa.
#7 A Broker Pretended to have sold a 405ft yacht on Ebay
4Yacht, the same brokerage company that claimed years later it had sold a 222-meter yacht, draws its publicity stunt roots much deeper. In 2005, as research by Yacht Harbour, found the company had already announced it had listed a 405ft yacht on Ebay, a novel approach at the time.
A year later, however, the broker claimed the yacht was sold on eBay via the "Buy Now" button with the buyer paying a 50% deposit for $85 million, yielding a total sales price of $170 million. When Forbes looked into whether the sale was real, no information was found. More than a decade later, this yacht still doesn't exist.
MY Seawolf arrived in Falmouth Antigua last month following a successful transatlantic voyage, marking its first public appearance since undergoing an extensive 2-year refit at Pendennis’ UK facility. The 1950s 57-meter converted ocean-going tug was comprehensively updated with modern technology and sustainable solutions, while preserving its heritage and classic lines.Pendennis collaborated with UK-based Design Unlimited, who were contracted by the yacht’s new owners to oversee the refit design of both the interior and exterior. Design Unlimited worked closely with interior designer Ngila Boyd, who has a long-standing relationship with the client, to create a timeless and elegant interior tailored to the family’s needs for global cruising and exploration. The design incorporates painted and timber panelling, elegant materials, bespoke furniture by H. Miller Bros., and lighting by John Cullen and Cox London, enhancing the onboard ambiance.Transformative improvements include a new owner’s suite, forward of the owner’s pantry and sky lounge, and a redesigned aft deck with a hard top featuring skylights. The flybridge was remodeled into a dining and viewing space, while the crew area, captain’s cabin, and wheelhouse were also extensively refurbished. The owner’s accommodation was expertly manufactured and fitted by Oldenburger, while Norfolk Interiors crafted the sky lounge, owner’s pantry, crew accommodations, and wheelhouse. Exterior enhancements, including the flybridge and main deck reception area, were executed by William Garvey.The refit included a complete overhaul of the yacht’s hotel services, guest and crew spaces, and engine room, with the existing slow-speed diesel engines preserved. The exterior was sympathetically restored, including a complete repaint of the hull and superstructure, new decks, a new cargo/rescue crane, a side boarding platform, and the reconfiguration of outside spaces.Group Operations Director Charlie Ross noted that the Seawolf project was one of the most technologically demanding endeavors tackled by Pendennis, requiring the team to push boundaries in sustainable solutions while respecting the yacht’s aesthetic integrity. The successful completion of the refit ensures that Seawolf retains its legacy and continues to be a significant presence in the global yachting community.Credit: Yacht Harbour Archive
March 13, 2025
Bluegame will once again participate in the Palm Beach International Boat Show, taking place from March 19th to 23rd, 2025. The brand will showcase the BG74, a model embodying the essence of the historic BG range and the embodiment of Bluegame's unique touch.BG74 is bridging the gap between open and fly-bridge yachts. It is designed for owners seeking a comprehensive yachting experience without compromises, combining the best attributes of both categories.Building on the successes of 2024, including the pioneering BGH-HSV Hydrogen Support Vessel project, Bluegame continues to push the boundaries of innovation. The experience gained from BGH-HSV has laid the foundation for a new range of multihulls, named BGF (Foil), with the BGF45 model set to debut in the summer of 2025.Another significant development in 2024 was the release of the upgraded BGM75, featuring synchronized gyroscopes in collaboration with Smart Gyro, offering unprecedented stability and comfort. A unit of this model will make its U.S. debut in the summer of 2025, further solidifying Bluegame's position as a leader in technological innovation within the international yachting industry.Credits: Bluegame
March 13, 2025
Moonen Yachts announced a reduction in the price of the Moonen 110 Mustique YN202 ahead of its presentation at the Palm Beach International Boat Show (PBIBS), where the yacht will be featured on E-dock within the IYC display.Originally priced at 16,900,000,− the price has been lowered to 15,400,000,- inclusive of a two-year shipyard warranty from the point of sale. Delivered in 2023, this long-range steel yacht embodies Moonen Yachts’ renowned Dutch engineering and superior craftsmanship, ensuring safety, stability, and an exceptionally quiet cruising experience.Designed by René van der Velden, the yacht’s sleek exterior is paired with a custom interior finished by London-based Studio Indigo. The yacht offers spacious accommodation for up to 10 guests, including a full-beam Owner’s Stateroom with 180-degree panoramic views, expansive exterior decks for socializing and dining, and a generous bridge deck. With an impressive 279GT of interior volume, the Moonen 110 Mustique YN202 delivers a luxurious cruising experience, combining impressive fuel efficiency, unlimited long-range cruising, and a shallow draft ideal for the balmy waters of The Bahamas.Representatives Matthew Stone and Richard Gray are eager to welcome visitors on board YN202 and will be joined by the Moonen team at PBIBS to showcase the all-new Moonen 122 Martinique YN205 and other exciting developments. For sales inquiries or to arrange a viewing, please contact the Global Sales Representatives.Credits: Moonen Yachts
March 13, 2025
Gruppo Antonini announced its participation in the OMC - Offshore Mediterranean Conference & Exhibition from April 8 to 10 in Ravenna. This is a significant opportunity for Gruppo Antonini to showcase its expertise dating back to 1943 in the oil & gas sector, as well as to explore new possibilities arising from the energy transition.Serving as a focal point for the offshore energy industry, the OMC has grown in stature over the years, making it one of the most anticipated events in the sector. Gruppo Antonini will occupy its own booth to highlight its long tradition as an EPCIC contractor (Engineering, Procurement, Construction, Installation, and Commissioning) and showcase recent and ongoing projects.One notable project recently completed by Gruppo Antonini is the Maboqueiro gas platform, a structure weighing over 5,500 tonnes, which was entirely built and launched at the company’s La Spezia shipyard and neighboring engineering workshops. Delivered to customer Azule Energy at the end of 2024, the project spanned 24 months due to its complexity, stemming from its size and numerous interfaces. The final assembly phase of the platform, involving the positioning of the jacket and deck in the Atlantic Ocean, is scheduled to commence in March 2025, with Gruppo Antonini managing the hook-up operations, lasting approximately 45 days.Additionally, Gruppo Antonini has recently secured two significant orders from Mellitah Oil & Gas BV - Libyan Branch (National Oil Corporation of Libya and Eni North Africa): a gas production platform in Libya valued at €300 million and a Platform Compression Module for installation on the existing SABRATHA gas platform, 42 meters above sea level and 120 kilometers from the Libyan coast.Through its participation in OMC Ravenna 2025, Gruppo Antonini aims to strengthen its position as a leader in the offshore energy sector, highlighting its capabilities in executing complex projects and embracing the challenges of the evolving energy landscape.Credits: Gruppo Antonini
March 12, 2025
Revolution Marine Group and Silent Escapes have introduced a groundbreaking sustainable yacht financing model, the Credit Linked Note (CLN) investment model, facilitated by the Swiss company GenTwo. Already managing over USD 4 billion in assets, this innovative approach combines the simplicity of crowdfunding with the security of a regulated financial instrument.Ultra-green real estate developer Silent Escapes has adopted this method to finance the purchase of two Revolution S60 solar-electric supported catamarans, scheduled for delivery to the Bahamas in early summer 2025 and early 2026. The CLN model offers investors significant returns and exclusive yacht charter benefits.The funds raised by Silent Escapes will be used to acquire two state-of-the-art solar-electric catamarans from Revolution Marine Group, representing manufacturers including Revolution Yachts, Canados Heritage, and CL Yachts. These 60-foot, four-cabin catamarans offer silent, emissions-free cruising throughout the Caribbean, enhancing the eco-luxury experience at Silent Escapes' stunning Marina Point residences.The catamarans will generate revenue through membership fees linked to Silent Escapes' real estate sales and will be available for both commercial charter and promotional activities. Property owners at Silent Escapes will gain access to these yachts, offering them exclusive charter opportunities or shared access to the expanding fleet.The CLN model provides a highly secure investment opportunity with numerous advantages:Swiss-registered CLNs: Offered through GenTwo, with an ISIN code (CH1408701055).Annual Return: 14.25% over a two-year term.Additional Benefits: Qualified investors receive free all-inclusive charters, and investment credits toward Silent Escapes properties.Asset Security: Assets are secured by high-value solar-electric yachts and 100% solar-powered waterfront residences.The CLN can be purchased through any bank using the provided ISIN code, simplifying the investment process.Ed Sacks, CEO of Revolution Marine Group, stated, "By combining cutting-edge solar-electric technology, high-end luxury design, and eco-conscious investment models, we are excited to set a new benchmark for sustainable land and sea tourism." Victor Barrett, CEO of Silent Escapes, added, "Our innovative funding approach allows investors to purchase investment certificates directly from their bank, offering enhanced protection and flexibility."This collaboration exemplifies how sustainable practices can merge with lucrative investment opportunities, appealing to eco-conscious investors seeking both financial gains and unique experiential rewards.Credits: Revolution Marine Group, Silent Escapes
March 12, 2025