Trump's election as president of the United States marked a number of firsts, including the institution of what has historically become the wealthiest cabinet ever in existence. The billionaire's effect on politics has become the subject of many debates, yet his influence on yachting is often overlooked. Having owned one of the largest yachts of her time, Trump once commissioned the world's largest superyacht and also briefly owned a leading Dutch shipyard.
In his former life as a billionaire businessman, Trump not only owned an 86m superyacht as well as a shipyard for a brief period of time, but he also ordered the world's largest yacht, although it was never completed. Meanwhile, US Secretary of Education, Betsy DeVos, with a net worth estimated at $1,5 billion, and her family have been linked to no less than 13 yachts over the years.
In 1980, the late Saudi businessman and arms dealer, Adnan Khashoggi took delivery of the 86 meter (282 ft) Nabila. Built by Benetti in Italy, she became the 8th largest yacht in the world and appeared in the 1983 James Bond movie, Never Say Never Again.
When Khashoggi, however, ran into financial problems, the Sultan of Brunei took possession of the yacht to cover one of his loans. The Sultan quickly flipped the yacht to Donald Trump for a reported $29 million in 1987. In an interview in 1988, Trump said he received a $1 million discount for agreeing to change the name from Nabila, Khashoggi's daughter.
Khashoggi probably spent $200 million building this yacht, probably the best yacht ever built. I purchased it for a business. I use it for my hotels. I use it for a lot of different charities.
After acquiring Nabila, Trump renamed the yacht to Trump Princess and had it refitted by Holland-based, Amels for a near $10 million according to the LA Times. The H on the helipad was also changed to a T to stand for Trump.
Spread into over 100 separate areas over five decks, Nabila was without a doubt one of the most complex yachts of her time. With luxurious materials including onyx used for her interior, the yacht was also ahead of her time from a technological standpoint. Remote controls were installs next to the bed for shades, room service, and the entertainment center.
Amongst the yacht's main feature was a hair salon with 3 separate chairs, a sauna, a private elevator for the owner, one for guests and one for the crew, a 2.4-meter in diameter spa pool with a waterjet behind bulletproof glass. Whilst still owned by Khashoggi, many arms deals were signed onboard the yacht.
In June 1989, Donald Trump announced that he would build a larger yacht, "something in excess of 400 feet long, closer to 500 feet" as he told Newsday and that he was accepting bids from yacht builders for this project. Amels, then owned by a group of 4 British investors, secured the deal to develop the 128-meter Trump Princess II according to NRC.
In May 1990, it was announced that Trump bought Amels altogether. At a press conference in Makkum in 1990, Jeff Walker, VP of Trump's investment empire, denied that the shipyard was sold due to the previous owner's financial difficulties, which some have said, resulted from Trump canceling the construction of the Trump Princess II.
In September 1990, two months after the acquisition, Trump sold Amels to American businessman, Peter Kutell according to Deseret News due to financial problems. At the same time, the Trump Princess was put up for sale and all work on the Trump Princess II stopped. In 1991, Trump Princess was sold to Prince Al-Waleed for $19 million who renamed the yacht to Kingdom 5KR.
The superstructure for Trump Princess II allegedly remained at the Amels Makkum facility until summer 2001 when it was eventually removed. According to sources familiar with the matter, the superstructure is still parked at the Makkum facility, now owned by Feadship De Vries and reportedly sometimes used as a bike parking space.
Currently valued by Forbes at $3.1 billion, Trump serves as the United States' 45th president since January 20th 2017. Having sparked controversies throughout the world due to his polarising views on a number of domestic and foreign issues, he has recently led a series of reforms to have US conglomerates bring back a large portion of their cash back to the United States.
After getting a start at his father's real estate development company, Trump started his Manhattan real estate crusade, acquiring part of the Commodore Hotel in 1978. Following this, Trump embarked on building Trump Tower, which was completed in 1983. Five years later, Trump bought the Plaza Hotel for $407 million and invested $50 million into its refurbishment. At the same time, Trump started branching out of Manhattan, building in Palm Beach, Atlantic City and ventured int golf.
Trump's net worth is still predominantly tied to his New York-assets though, with $1,6 billion in real estate. The billionaire has another $500 million in real estate in another cities, in addition to $570 million worth of golf clubs and resorts according to Forbes. His branding business, which includes hotel management and product licensing is currently valued at $200 million. "Money was never a big motivation for me, except as a way to keep score. The real excitement is playing the game." Trump said in his book, The Art of the Deal.
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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