The second Heesen largest superyacht, 65-metre Galactica Star, was announced sold on July 25, with Fraser representing the seller and Burgess representing the buyer. The vessel was listed for sale earlier this year asking $ 42,000,000, as a result of a notorious corruption case in Nigeria.
Custom-built by Dutch yard Heesen in 2013, the vessel seconds only to the builder’s 70-metre Galactica Super Nova in terms of LOA. She features exterior styling by Omega Architects, engineering by Van Oossanen & Associates, finished by interiors from the boards of Bannenberg & Rowell.
In April 2019, the vessel was offered for sale in a sealed bid arrangement, proposed by the U.S. Department of Justice and the Federal Republic of Nigeria and approved by U.S. federal court. The sale process roots back to corruption case against two Nigerian nationals.
Allegedly, the superyacht was originally owned by Nigerian oil magnate Kolawole Aluko, who is one of four defendants accused of cheating Nigeria out of almost $1.8 billion in siphoned crude oil sales, reports The Marine News. The U.S. government also accused Aluko and another oil executive, Olajide Omokore, of laundering money in the United States and using it to acquire the yacht, among other assets.
The sale followed a court-ordered seizure of the yacht's owner's assets due to possible connections to an ongoing Nigerian oil corruption scandal, triggered by the Panama Papers investigation. The latter refers to 11.5 million leaked encrypted confidential documents that were the property of Panama-based law firm Mossack Fonseca, exposing the network of more than 214,000 tax havens.
Thus, the US and Nigerian governments received Federal Court approval to sell the arrested superyacht due to high maintenance and dockage fees, estimating the combined cost at around $170,000 per month. Managed by Fraser, the vessel was listed at $42,000,000.
Galactica Star accommodates up to 12 guests overnight in 6 cabins, comprising a master suite, 1 VIP stateroom, and 4 double cabins. She is also capable of carrying up to 13 crew onboard to ensure a relaxed luxury yacht experience.
The most alluring feature about the vessel is what goes on below the waterline. Van Ossaanen Naval Architects successfully created a yacht that cruises 30% more efficiently than a conventional round-bilged motor yacht in this size range.
Powered by 2 MTU 5,592 HP diesel engines and propelled by twin screw propellers, Galactica Star is capable of a top speed of 27 knots, and comfortably cruises at 24 knots. With her 90,000 fuel tanks she has a maximum range of 4,200 nautical miles at 14 knots. Her water tanks store around 30,000 litres of fresh water.
The yacht used to be popular for charter among celebrities, for instance, once rented by American music industry power couple, Jay Z and Beyonce for a holiday cruise, according to WithinNigeria.
In the meantime, acting as the seller's representative Fraser, one of the world’s leading brokerage companies, has been recently announced acquired from the Italian AzimutBenetti Group by US broker MarineMax.
Northrop & Johnson has listed the brand-new Absolute 56 Flybridge for sale at EUR2,033,250, with yacht brokers Jeffrey Chan and Martin Holmes representing the vessel. The Italian-built motor yacht combines performance with contemporary design, featuring Volvo Penta IPS engines for efficient cruising and joystick docking.The 56 Flybridge offers a full-beam master suite positioned forward for panoramic views, along with three guest cabins and a separate crew cabin. The aft galley connects the cockpit and saloon, enhancing indoor-outdoor flow, while floor-to-ceiling windows provide natural light. High-end finishes include polished cabinetry and sleek countertops.On deck, the yacht maximizes space with an expansive flybridge featuring a U-shaped dining area, wet bar, and lounging zones. An optional hardtop includes solar panels for energy efficiency. The foredeck includes a lounge with sunpads and a convertible teak table, while the hydraulic swim platform at the stern functions as a beach club with retractable stairs for water access.Designed for comfort and reliability, the Absolute 56 Flybridge is available for immediate delivery. Buyers seeking a turnkey, high-performance motor yacht can view the listing through Northrop & Johnson.Credits: Northrop & Johnson
April 24, 2025
The inaugural World Yachting Summit in Monaco convened over 200 participants from 20 countries, including industry leaders, regulators, and innovators, to address critical challenges facing the sector. Modeled after global forums like COP and Davos, the three-day event featured 19 panel sessions and 8 keynote talks focused on sustainability, modernization, and generational engagement.Keynote speaker Jean-Claude Biver, former CEO of Blancpain and Hublot, emphasized innovation through his "first, unique, different" philosophy, while Azimut Benetti's Giovanna Vitelli led discussions on practical sustainability measures. A SMART framework emerged from debates:Sustainable: Industry must transition from compliance to climate leadership, per DNV's Barbara Sanches and Energy Observer's Victorien Erussard.Modern: Calls for transparency in listings and standardized regulations for emerging destinations.Attractive: Shift needed from ostentation to purpose-driven experiences for younger demographics.Resourceful: Unified advocacy and economic impact storytelling urged, mirroring aviation sector models.Transformative: Early marine education and human-centric design identified as priorities.Albert Manzone of Société des Bains de Mer highlighted Monaco's stability as a blueprint for resilience. Closing sessions noted geopolitical and labor challenges, with cautious optimism about adapting to sustainability demands and experience-focused ownership models.The Summit was co-organized by M3 and OMNIYAT. M3 CEO José Marco Casellini stated: "WYS 2025 leaves a lasting impression... establishing itself as a driving force for innovation and strategic thinking about the future of yachting."A second edition is planned for 2026 to continue progress on these initiatives.Credits: World Yachting Summit
April 24, 2025
Sacs Tecnorib will exhibit four models at the Palma International Boat Show from April 30 to May 3. The display, organized with Mallorca distributor Swiss Yachting and Spanish dealer Helimotor, will feature the Pirelli Speedboats 30 and 35, along with the Strider 13 and Strider 11, at stand M-34 in Zone 1.Pirelli 30The Pirelli Speedboats line, designed by Ted Mannerfelt, will be represented by the 30 and 35 models, which emphasize performance and sporty aesthetics. Strider 11The Strider range, designed by Christian Grande, includes the 13-meter Strider 13, focused on comfort for extended cruising, and the more compact Strider 11, suited for day trips with functional living spaces.Pirelli 35The company's participation underscores its focus on expanding its Mediterranean presence with models that combine design, construction quality, and performance. The Palma show marks the beginning of the Mediterranean boating season.Sacs Tecnorib Spa was established in 2021 from the union between TecnoRib srl and Sacs srl. Sacs tecnorib spa is the official licensee of Pirelli brand inflatable boatsCredits: Sacs Tecnorib Spa
April 23, 2025
Alinghi Red Bull Racing has announced its withdrawal from the upcoming America’s Cup competition, citing financial and strategic reasons. The team, which was set to compete in the 37th edition of the prestigious sailing event, confirmed the decision in a statement released today.“After careful consideration and thorough analysis of our current situation, we have made the difficult decision to withdraw from the America’s Cup,” said team principal Bruno Troublé. “This was not an easy choice, but we believe it is the right one for the future of our organization.”The withdrawal comes as a significant blow to the America’s Cup, which was scheduled to take place in Barcelona later this year. Organizers have yet to comment on how the absence of Alinghi Red Bull Racing will impact the competition format and schedule.Alinghi Red Bull Racing has been a prominent participant in recent America’s Cup editions, most notably competing in the 36th edition held in Bermuda. The team has a history dating back to the original Alinghi squad that won the America’s Cup in 2003.“We want to thank all our supporters, partners, and the incredible team members who have been part of this journey,” Troublé added. “While we are leaving the America’s Cup, we remain committed to the sport of sailing and look forward to exploring new opportunities in the future.”The team’s departure leaves the field of competitors for the 37th America’s Cup reduced, with organizers now facing the challenge of potentially finding a replacement team or adjusting the competition format. The America’s Cup is known for its high-stakes, high-tech sailing competitions involving cutting-edge catamarans capable of speeds exceeding 50 knots.Details regarding the future of Alinghi Red Bull Racing’s assets, including their AC75 foiling catamaran, have not been disclosed. The team’s withdrawal adds to the uncertainty surrounding the America’s Cup, which has already faced challenges related to cost and complexity in recent years.Organizers of the America’s Cup are expected to provide further updates on how they plan to proceed with the competition in the coming days. The event remains one of the most prestigious and technically demanding regattas in the sailing world, attracting teams from around the globe.Credits: Alinghi Red Bull Racing
April 22, 2025
The Sunseeker 131 motor yacht ‘Best of Me’ has entered the luxury yacht market through Camper & Nicholsons. Built in 2014, the vessel has undergone a comprehensive refit in 2023, bringing it up to the latest standards of comfort and performance.The yacht measures 40 meters in length and features exterior design by Don Shead. The interior, spanning three decks, has been reconfigured during the recent refit to accommodate up to 12 guests across six staterooms. The master suite is located on the main deck, offering panoramic views and direct access to the aft deck.Key features include a spacious beach club area with a hydraulic swim platform, a large sundeck with alfresco dining facilities, and a fully equipped gym. The yacht is powered by twin Caterpillar engines, delivering a top speed of 30 knots and a cruising speed of 25 knots.The refit included upgrades to the vessel’s technical systems, including new generators, stabilization systems, and air conditioning units. The interior received new furnishings and finishes, with a focus on creating a contemporary, luxurious ambiance.“Best of Me presents an exceptional opportunity for those seeking a well-maintained, high-performance yacht with a proven pedigree,” said a spokesperson from Camper & Nicholsons. “The recent refit has ensured that the yacht meets the highest standards of comfort and performance expected from a vessel of this caliber.”The yacht is currently available for viewing in the Mediterranean and is offered for sale through Camper & Nicholsons, one of the world’s leading yacht brokers. The asking price and further details are available upon request through the brokerage firm.The vessel’s layout includes a master stateroom on the main deck, a VIP stateroom on the upper deck, four additional guest staterooms on the lower deck, crew quarters for up to 10 staff, multiple entertainment areas, and state-of-the-art audio-visual systems.The yacht is equipped with advanced navigation systems, including stabilizers at anchor and underway, ensuring comfort during both cruising and stationary periods. The exterior decks provide ample space for socializing and relaxing, with multiple seating areas and dining options both inside and outside.Best of Me is registered in the Cayman Islands and is compliant with all relevant international regulations and standards. The yacht is offered with a full inventory of water toys and tenders, making it ready for immediate enjoyment by its new owner.Credits: Camper & Nicholsons
April 22, 2025