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Inside Clive Palmer's new $40million superyacht 'Australia' complete with hot tub, VIP suite and outdoor bar

• Mining billionaire Clive Palmer's new $40million superyacht arrived in Brisbane  
• The 56-metre Italian designed and built vessel is patriotically named 'Australia' 
• Yacht has two sundecks, an outdoor and indoor bar, a jacuzzi, and a VIP suite 

By Brett Lackey For Daily Mail Australia

Published: 10:36 EDT, 19 October 2021 | Updated: 04:25 EDT, 20 October 2021

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Billionaire Clive Palmer has bought a $40million superyacht patriotically named 'Australia'. 

The Queensland based mining tycoon has moored the 56m vessel in the Brisbane River with the international crew currently undergoing two weeks quarantine. 

The yacht is an upgrade from his previous 35m Sunseeker $8million runabout, the Nancy Jean. 

Mr Palmer bought the superyacht (pictured) previously named Bash in December for about $40million 

The owner's suite comes complete with an office, walk-in wardrobe and private bathroom (pictured) 

Italian company Benetti created his new yacht in 2012, which has been previously named Bash and Ulysses. 

Mr Palmer made the purchase in December after the 12 guest and 12 crew capacity vessel had been on the market since 2019. 

The yacht includes two sundecks, an outdoor and indoor bar, a jacuzzi, a VIP suite with bridge deck views, and an owner's suite complete with an office, walk-in wardrobe, and private bathroom. 

Mr Palmer - also the chairman of his United Australia Party - enjoys entertaining on his yachts along the Brisbane River, Gold Coast and Hamilton Island. 

He's been splurging recently buying several luxury canal-front home on the Gold Coast and a $20million Sovereign Island mega-mansion. 

As well as his mining businesses he owns a number of luxury golfing resorts along the Queensland Coast. 

The 'Australia' has a sundeck and jacuzzi on the top level (pictured) perfect for entertaining guests

Mr Palmer and his wife Anna (pictured) have been splurging on properties recently 

He is worth about $13billion, according the the Australian Financial Review.  

His plans for the next federal election have also taken another step as he called for candidates to stand for his United Australia Party.

Mr Palmer says he has a significant war chest for his next tilt at Canberra, and claims his campaign will outspend the two major parties.

'I am encouraging our members to take the next step in creating a new era in Australian history by nominating to become an endorsed United Australia Party candidate for the 2022 Federal Election,' he said in a statement on Friday.

The UAP is calling for nominations for representatives in all states and territories to run for positions in the House of Representatives and the Senate.

'With a strong field of candidates and our tens of thousands of members behind us, we will do our very best to win the next Federal Election,' Mr Palmer said.

The yacht features a 10-person formal dining room (pictured) and an indoor and outdoor bar 

Share or comment on this article: Inside mining tycoon Clive Palmer's new $40million superyacht 'Australia'

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‘Yachts at the top’: power, privacy and privilege in the world of Australian superyachts

Superyachts are floating markers of power and luxury, and sales are booming. As Australia hopes to lure more of the vessels and their elite clientele, what do we know about this world?

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Visible from the footpath at the water’s edge, the superyachts berthed at Melbourne City Marina bob gently up and down, their sleek and shiny exteriors reflecting the placid waters below.

For me, and most people on this planet, this is about as close as we are likely to get to a superyacht. In Australia, that’s a pleasurecraft longer than 24 metres. Internationally, the starting length is 30 metres. The City of Melbourne recently spent $1.97m upgrading Victoria Harbour, including its four superyacht berths, to fit vessels up to 67 metres long. But for the tiny portion of the world’s ultra wealthy for whom superyacht size is a matter of concern, 67 metres is fairly moderate. The longest privately owned superyacht in the world is the 180-metre Azzam, reportedly built for the former president of the United Arab Emirates , the late Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

Superyachts are markers of power and extravagance. They are floating, transportable six-star hotels, capable of including everything from nail parlours to gyms, helipads and boardrooms, marble bathrooms and priceless art, as well as what the industry calls “toys” – from jet skis worth the equivalent of the average Australian worker’s salary to private submarines worth millions.

In a recent memoir, the longtime Australian seafarer and superyacht captain Brendan O’Shannassy writes: “Until space travel becomes a commercial reality, [superyachts] are the greatest display of wealth on the planet.”

For all their capacity to allow long-distance travel in extreme luxury, though, superyachts aren’t frequent visitors to Australian waters. The local industry has been lobbying to change that, and state and federal governments have made superyacht-friendly moves, hitching millions of dollars in public infrastructure upgrades and tax concessions to claims that these will bring millions in economic benefits to every port in which a vessel makes anchor.

But despite public money going towards establishing and upgrading infrastructure that is only accessible to the very privileged few, there’s been little public scrutiny of this elite industry.

S uperyachts are not super common, although their numbers are growing. Sales company Edmiston recently estimated that the global fleet comprised a total of 5,892 vessels – representing an increase of 44% over the last decade. Most of those yachts are between 30 and 50 metres (4,957); 13% are between 50 and 80 metres (753) and 3% are over 80 metres (182).

There are only about 120 superyachts owned by Australians, concentrated mostly around Sydney Harbour and south-east Queensland. About half of them are charter vessels. It’s likely all of them have, at some point, been through Captain Richard Morris’s hands.

Fresh off the plane from the Dubai Boat Show, Morris tells Guardian Australia that he got his start in the merchant navy at 17, before landing a job as a deckhand two years later on the 86-metre superyacht Nabila, owned by the influential and extravagant Saudi arms dealer, fixer and liaison of presidents and tycoons Adnan Khashoggi. Nabila was Khashoggi’s third yacht and the height of ostentatious luxury when it launched in 1980. Its 100 rooms included Italian hand-carved onyx bathrooms, a patisserie, a movie theatre, a hair salon, a hospital with an operating theatre, and 320 metres of Italian leather upholstery. When Khashoggi’s empire began to decay in the late 80s, he sold Nabila to Donald Trump for $29m – considered a bargain – with the businessman who would later become US president renaming the yacht the Trump Princess .

Morris, meanwhile, left Nabila after a year and began building his own career as a seafarer, becoming a captain at just 27 and a master mariner. He moved ashore in 1999 and was hired by NSW Maritime to build a new superyacht marina in Rozelle Bay.

“That was the beginning of superyachting in Australia,” Morris says. “Prior to that, only a few people here had superyachts, because there was the tall poppy syndrome – high net wealth Australians were reluctant to show their extreme wealth.”

The Sydney Olympics in 2000 changed that, Morris says. The marina development was partly to accommodate the super wealthy who were planning to bring their yachts down for the Games. Morris managed the marina for the next decade, before moving into local superyacht sales and charters.

The Sydney experience is one that the industry is keen to replicate for the forthcoming Brisbane Olympics. The mining magnate Gina Rinehart may have been lampooned by the public in 2021 when she complained that she had nowhere to moor her yacht in Brisbane , but the Queensland Labor government appears to agree it should invest in more superyacht infrastructure. It’s had a multiyear superyacht strategy since 2018, and in May last year it was updated and extended to take the Olympics into account.

Its listed achievements so far include $28m to upgrade the Cairns Marine Precinct, $2.87m for a 160-metre superyacht berth on the Gold Coast, and planning for 80-metre superyacht facilities and additional marinas in new developments on the Spit. Its stated goal is for Queensland to be “world recognised as the major superyacht hub in the Asia-Pacific region”. Economic modelling for industry lobby group Superyacht Australia argues the 2032 Games presents “an unparalleled opportunity to springboard the sector on to the global stage and demonstrate the prosperity the sector can support in Australia”. It hopes Australia will reach 8% of the global market – that’s 533 vessels – in the next three years, which it says will yield hundreds of millions of dollars in direct economic benefits.

Until just prior to the pandemic, superyachts could not come to Australia without the owner paying a hefty tax on the vessel, with the visiting multimillion-dollar vessels treated as though they were being imported permanently into the country. That changed with the passage of the Special Recreational Vessels Act 2019. The act, which relieves the owner of having to pay import duties including GST, was hitched as a rider to various unrelated bills by the Coalition government until it was passed as a standalone just before Christmas in 2019.

The legislation allows foreign vessels to be chartered while in Australian waters, with GST payable only on the charter itself.

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The then member for the Queensland seat of Dawson, George Christensen, claimed it as a pet project. “I have been very, very pushy in getting this legislation to come forward,” Christensen said at the time.

Christensen claimed the bill was “just about ensuring that local communities can get some of the coin that these people drop”. Labor passed the bill with minor amendments.

Since then, six superyachts have applied for a temporary licence, with just four making the trip.

‘It’s your world’

The industry estimates that the local market for superyacht charter or purchase is 1% of the population. It sees it as a subset of the cruise market, which is estimated to capture about 5% of Australians.

It’s hard to ignore the symbolism of that figure, the 1%. Morris’s anecdotes help to illustrate just how that plays out in practice. In 2011, the manager of U2 called him, he recalls, hoping to find a suitable superyacht for the band who were dissatisfied with the crowds at the Park Hyatt. (He was unable to find one that met the band’s specific desires.) That same year, Morris put up the actor Kevin Spacey in the 37-metre Tango during Spacey’s run as Richard III in Sam Mendes’s production that toured Sydney’s Lyric theatre.

“Dinner was at 1am and [Spacey’s] guests would leave at 4am. Then the yacht would move to Rose Bay and he’d sleep till midday, and then come back and do it all again,” Morris says.

“It’s an option for these very high-profile people. They’re anchored in the middle of the harbour. The level of security and discretion that a superyacht provides is much better than any hotel. They can control their world. And that’s the essence of yachting – it’s your world.”

When Covid lockdowns hit, owners of superyachts raced to their vessels, escaping up to the Great Barrier Reef instead of staying at home, Morris says. The associated freedom saw a boom in superyacht sales in 2021 . Since the onset of the war in Ukraine, however, superyachts have also become associated with sanctioned Russian oligarchs. Not without reason: they represented 30% of the global market. Documents recently revealed, for example, that the former Chelsea FC boss Roman Abramovich owned 16 superyachts , a full eight of which were support vessels for the 162.5-metre A$649.5m Eclipse he’d had built in 2010.

Morris says there were Russians who had planned to come to Australia prior to the war – one of whom was going to contract him to manage his yacht. It would have put millions through his business. The sanctions, though, have “put the fear of God through the industry”, he says.

“If I was managing a Russian yacht I would have gotten rid of it. It’s so lucrative, though, that a lot of people didn’t. I’m glad that the Russian client didn’t come. Sure, I missed out on huge revenue, but that’s not the point.”

T he 2032 Olympics aren’t the local industry’s only goal. Another is to bring more vessels to Australia to make use of the shipyards – mainly in Queensland and Western Australia – for maintenance, retrofitting and building. Another still is to increase the number of Australians joining the superyacht workforce.

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On Facebook groups like Superyacht Crew , keen industry up-and-comers post pictures of themselves – snorkelling, in uniform, sipping a glass of wine in a party dress – alongside their formal qualifications and experience. The semi-casual CV comes with added notes about the seafarer’s personality, including whether or not they have tattoos (being tattoo-free appears to be a selling point).

Employment standards, however, can vary. Commercially registered yachts available for charter, which usually have permanent captain and crew despite the rotating guest list, are bound by the Maritime Labour Convention 2006, which lays out minimum standards of employment, including legally enforceable contracts, maximum working hours per week, shore leave and annual leave entitlements, and the right to return to your country of residence for free. Enforcement of those standards is the responsibility of the country under whose flag the ship sails, and yachts chartering out of Australia need to be registered here.

Private yachts are a different story. They are not automatically covered by the Maritime Labour Convention, and employment contracts are often managed by owners’ personal office staff. Non-disclosure agreements are common, and rumours abound that upsetting the wrong people on board can see you unceremoniously dumped at the nearest port.

Superyacht crew in Australia are not covered by any union-based collective bargaining agreements. The Maritime Union of Australia national secretary, Paddy Crumlin, tells Guardian Australia that the MUA doesn’t have a real presence among the superyacht labour force, but alleges exploitation and harassment are rife. Morris vehemently rejects this, saying the working conditions on superyachts are “exceptional”, better than cruising or commercial shipping, higher paid, and far exceeding the minimums set by the Maritime Labour Convention.

Guardian Australia was unable to speak to any junior superyacht crew directly, despite attempts, but a survey of 402 superyacht crew members conducted by the International Seafarers’ Welfare and Assistance Network in 2018 described them as mainly well paid. More than 90% of survey respondents – male and female – said they felt safe on board, though 53% of female crew said they had experienced discrimination, harassment or bullying from owners, other crew or guests, compared with 30% of men, who most commonly experienced it from captains or other senior crew. The level of work-related stress was high, particularly among women.

No matter who ultimately owns them, private yachts are likely to be flying what the industry calls a “flag of convenience”, which can make standards harder to enforce, as the boat can spend very little, if any, time in its country of registration. Flags of convenience are a common maritime business practice, though, including in cruising and freight. And the results can be ironic: a cursory registry search of some high-profile private superyachts reveals, for example, that the mining magnate Andrew Forrest’s 58.2-metre Pangaea Ocean Explorer – which will shortly carry out environmental surveys on the DNA of ocean life, assisted by $3m in federal funding to Forrest’s Minderoo Foundation – sails under the Jamaican flag. Clive Palmer’s 56-metre $40m yacht, despite being patriotically named Australia , is registered in Malta.

Control, chameleons and seasick fish

What is it that draws the ultra rich to yachting?

“Control,” says David Good, the chief executive of industry peak body Superyachts Australia. “You can control the itinerary, who is on board and what food is going to be served. During the pandemic, when you were on board was probably the only time you could fully take control of who was going to be with you and your family. Covid was probably one of the best things that ever happened to boating in general.”

Sam Sorgiovanni concurs. He’s used to catering to the whims of wealth: a sought-after designer based in Western Australia with about 35 years of experience, Sorgiovanni estimates he’s designed at least 20 superyachts. The biggest challenges usually relate to balancing functionality with the budget constraints of the commissioner. But some design requests are more complicated.

For the Nirvana, Sorgiovanni says his company designed two onboard terrariums for chameleons, water dragons, turtles and frogs, and a separate cricket facility to breed the reptiles’ food. The terrarium included curtains to shield the animals from the disco lights of an adjacent salon. On Anastasia and Barbara – owned by the same Russian billionaire as Nirvana – the designers were asked to include fish tanks. Unfortunately, they later discovered, fish kept in a tank on a boat die – from seasickness.

The origin of most of the super wealth that fuels superyacht ownership is natural resources, Sorgiovanni says. But criticism of the industry, he says, echoing Morris, is “tall poppy syndrome”.

“Yachting is the greatest redistribution of wealth around. Although it is for the privileged few, if you take a 100-metre yacht, there’s 50 crew on board, they’re all being paid, they’ve all got families, and wherever that yacht goes, especially if we’re allowing them to come into charter, as soon as it pulls into port … it would be millions generated every time the vessel comes in,” he says.

“It’s a pyramid. We’ve got the yachts at the top, and a pyramid of suppliers underneath it.”

S altwater and air is hard on boats, and superyachts require a lot of money for upkeep, and a lot of maintenance. So when an owner abandons ship, the vessels suddenly become very large and very unwieldy public burdens.

In February, the government of Antigua and Barbuda claimed and put up for auction the 82-metre Alfa Nero, which it said had been abandoned in Falmouth Harbour since early last year. The owner is rumoured to be the Russian oligarch Andrey Guryev; Guryev has denied owning the yacht, according to other reports.

That same month, the 29-metre superyacht Nakoa broke free of its moorings in Honolua Bay in north-west Maui, Hawaii, and drifted before running hard aground in shallow water, peppered by rocks and reef.

The US Coast Guard seized jurisdiction of the yacht after its owner, the charter mogul Jim Jones, informed authorities that he would not organise or pay for the boat’s salvage. Hawaii’s Department of Land and Natural Resources said in a series of statements that Jones would instead receive a bill of at least US$460,000 for the salvage effort, and may face further penalties and possible legal action.

Facing widespread criticism, Jones told Honolulu media that he was “taking responsibility” for the matter. “We’ve been talking to the DLNR to let them know we’re not leaving them with the bill,” Jones said. “We’re not running.”

Timely and safe salvage was important to the local community but also to the environment. The grounding occurred just outside a significant marine conservation zone, and the yacht struck and damaged at least 30 corals and live rocks, its hull leaking diesel into the reef. Footage of the wreck circulated on social media, where commenters raged about the fuel seeping into the pristine water and the damage to the reef.

It took contractors three salvage attempts over nearly two weeks to dislodge the 122-tonne Nakoa. On 5 March, three tugboats managed to drag it back into the water. As they set off to tow the yacht to Honolulu, a pod of humpback whales surfaced and escorted the boats out of the bay, away from the marine sanctuary.

The Nakoa never made it back to dock . Halfway to Honolulu, the yacht began listing heavily. Unable to be dragged any further, it was scuttled in the deep channel between the islands of Maui and Molokai, and left to sink to the ocean floor.

The whales swam on.

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Exclusive: Below Deck Down Under yacht THALASSA- real name revealed

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By Steph Loseby   13 April 2022

Bravo’s much-beloved maritime hit Below Deck has released a brand new spin-off following the new and energetic crew around the Whitsunday Islands in Australia . Viewers of the hit show, Below Deck Down Under may know the charter yacht as THALASSA, but the 55m (181ft) superyacht’s real name is in fact KERI LEE III . 

Premiering on NBCUniversal’s streaming service Peacock, Below Deck Down Under is available to watch now with new episodes released every Thursday where viewers can watch the crew create a once-in-a-lifetime yacht charter vacation around the  Pacific and, of course, witness what it is like to travel onboard superyacht KERI LEE III.

Take a peek inside

Delivered by American shipyard Trinity yachts, she showcases meticulous craftsmanship coupled with high-end luxurious finishes that will please guests from the moment they step onboard.

It’s like Downton Abbey on a boat, what more could you want?

Boasting an elegant profile, superyacht KERI LEE III is the prime candidate for anyone looking for a taste of the superyacht lifestyle. The yacht is home to an impressive array of outstanding amenities including a beauty salon, massage room, gym, jacuzzi and a movie theater.

Launched in 2001 and refitted in 2016, she is styled by Claudette Bonville. Boasting exquisite woods and bespoke artworks, this superyacht offers an opulent setting that promises to create the perfect charter vacation.

Accommodating up to 12 guests in 6 beautifully designed cabins, the yacht offers incredible flexibility for a variety of charter party configurations.

Where is KERI LEE III cruising?

The hit series is recorded on Queensland’s shores with the vessel's homeport being Airlie Beach. She has explored destinations around the Whitsunday Islands such as Hook Island, Block reef and Henning Island, giving charter guests the opportunity to witness the outstanding beauty and clear waters of the Pacific.

What can fans expect from Below Deck Down Under?

For newbies to Below Deck , the hit show is all about life aboard a private yacht charter, with crew dynamics in the spotlight treating viewers to plenty of drama above and below deck. It looks like fans can expect even more action on this season's Below Deck Down Under as the crew travel around the tropical Whitsunday Islands and world-famous Great Barrier Reef, managing the rotating group of charter guests onboard yacht KERI LEE III. 

This season, Captain Jason Chambers is joined by a familiar face, fan-favorite Aesha Scott as Chief Stew, along with newcomers Chef Ryan McKeown and Bosun Jamie Sayed.

Episodes of Below Deck Down Under are available to stream on Hayu in Australia and on Peacock in the US.

How much does KERI LEE III cost to charter?

She currently has an asking price of $310,000 for a 7-day charter all year round.

Yacht rentals in Australia

A luxury yacht charter around Australia is a truly unforgettable experience that doesn’t disappoint. With over 50,000km of coastline linked by more than 10,000 beaches boasting world-class marinas and ports, choice and diversity is a strong theme of any magnificent yacht charter adventure Down Under.

To find out more about chartering in the region, check out our Australia yacht charter guide for more information. For some inspiration, check out our sample itineraries handpicked by experts with in-depth knowledge of the region.

If you’d like to learn more about chartering the superyacht KERI LEE III, please contact a recommended yacht charter broker .

Yachts available for yacht charter from the Below Deck Franchise

54m Perini Navi 2005 / 2012

62m Benetti 2010 / 2020

65m Benetti 2011

47m Admiral Marine Works 1998 / 2022

47m Feadship 1990 / 2021

54m Turquoise Yachts 2006 / 2016

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Australia’s Domestic Superyacht Industry Doubles In Size

By George Bains

Back in January 2020, Superyacht Australia CEO David Good spoke to Superyachts.com about the potential to double the domestic superyacht industry on the back of the new Special Recreational Vessels Bill. Few could have predicted the challenges that would unfold around the globe shortly thereafter, yet just over a year later the vision for a thriving industry Down Under seems to have been realised in even the most difficult of situations.

Australia is experiencing a superyacht boom, with vessels attracted to Australia and its buoyant domestic charter market. Australians normally spend A$65B annually on international travel and with borders closed many superyachts have moved to Australia to offer a luxury alternative to overseas travel.

The increase in charter activity in Australian waters provides a huge economic lift, with vessels spending around 10-12% of their value in operational expenditure annually, making every 50m vessel worth between A$5-6M in economic spend into a region per year.

This increase in vessels has a direct correlation to the new charter legislation passed by the federal government in December 2019. The passing of the Special Recreation Vessels (SRV) Act, coupled with the closure of international borders, have contributed to an accelerated growth of the industry, drawing larger superyachts to be based in Australian waters.

The SRV Act removed red tape restrictions on superyachts operating commercially in Australian waters. Prior to this Act becoming law, the largest domestic charter yacht was 42m, and now the largest Australian based superyacht is 74.5m – one of eight vessels over 50m now based in Australia since the passage of the Act.

This should only be expected to increase further when international borders reopen, with internationally flagged superyachts heading to Australia to take advantage not only of the new charter opportunities but also of a safe region with world-class marine infrastructure.

The opening of a new Superyacht Yard at The Boat Works and a mammoth new Travel Lift at Austal are two significant additions to the infrastructure in recent times. Significant expansion works are already in place or planned elsewhere around the country, notably a new 150m+ berth at Southport Yacht Club and a $250M expansion plan at the renowned Rivergate Marina and Shipyard .

Western Australia is home to Australia’s two large superyacht manufacturers – Silver Yachts and Echo Yachts . Both yards have recently produced superyachts in excess of 83m each, and are world leaders in innovative superyacht constructions.

“We look forward to having more Australian built superyachts based here in Australia,” commented David Good, CEO of Superyacht Australia. “With such spectacular cruising grounds and two of the world’s best superyacht manufacturers, it’s only a matter of time before we will see a large Australian-built superyacht chartering here and showcasing the absolute best of Australia.”

Before anything else, Australia is a country with infinite cruising possibilities. An all-year-round cruising calendar can be made up of visits to diverse locations from the rugged Kimberley to the mesmerising Great Barrier Reef and lively cities such as Sydney . With the continued global growth of the superyacht industry, new legislation allowing foreign-owned vessels to charter in Australia provides an enticing opportunity for owners, captains and charterers.

"We look forward to having more Australian built superyachts based here in Australia." David Good, CEO Superyacht Australia

"We look forward to having more Australian built superyachts based here in Australia."

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A Mysterious $110 Million Super Yacht Has Docked in Adelaide

Adelaide, a mysterious super yacht is in you.

The $US75 million (around $AU110 million) luxury super yacht, called the Satori, docked at Port Adelaide on Friday after taking a trip to Melbourne and Auckland.

The mystery surrounding the super yacht is that we don’t really know who the owner is. It’s believed to be owned by U.S. billionaire Jay Alix, who is a philanthropist and founder of the management consulting firm AlixPartners .

According to SuperYachtFan , the Satori, designed and built by Delta Marine Design Group , is 63 metres long and can house 12 guests in six cabins. It also costs around $AU6 million to $AU12 million to run.

But what is the super yacht doing in Adelaide? We don’t really know and we probably won’t. Apparently, the details of super yachts and their owners are kept relatively quiet. As such, we don’t actually know if Alix is on board the yacht at all.

According to the Flinders Port public shipping schedule , the Satori is set to leave Port Adelaide on December 8 after arriving on November 18. The super yacht also has a Cayman Islands flag and has an unknown vessel operator and naval headquarters. Take from that what you will.

Could this be the most exciting thing to happen in Port Adelaide? Maybe.

The potential owner of the super yacht, Jay Alix, has quite a lengthy CV. Not only is he the founder of AlixPartners, he has also served as CEO, COO and CFO of the firm.

He has extensive pro bono work, according to his bio on the AlixPartners website, which includes being a strategic advisor to various Japanese government agencies and officials when Japan developed its strategy for corporate revitalisation. He also assisted the Bank of Japan and the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

AlixPartners have also led major corporate restructurings including General Motors, WorldCom, Enron, Dana Corporation, Calpine and Kmart Corporation.

Jay Alix was also appointed by President Clinton to the National Bankruptcy Review Commission and made proposals to revise the bankruptcy laws, being the only businessperson and non-lawyer on the commission.

If you thought that was already a lot, including owning a super yacht, Alix has also done a lot of work in the creative and medical space. In 2018, Alix donated $US200 million to the Mayo Clinic School of Medicine which is the largest-ever endowment gift to Mayo Clinic. The school is now known as Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine.

Alix has also, for some reason, been involved in the production of award-winning documentary films, four-time Tony-winning Broadway musicals and plays and Grammy-nominated music. He has also helped the Detroit Public School System and the Normal Rockwell Museum.

It’s been a busy time for super and mega yachts lately. From America seizing a whole bunch of Russian super yachts, which it probably shouldn’t have done , to a super yacht that sank a gas tanker going on sale for $50.5 million .

Oh, and there’s recently been plans to build a giant turtle-shaped terayacht floating city thing .

We may never know the real story behind the mysterious super yacht that’s gracing Adelaide with its presence, but we know we love a big boat story.

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James Packer’s superyacht listed for eye-watering price of $283m

The reclusive billionaire has listed the superyacht, which was specially built for him, and features a list of luxury features including a nightclub.

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Australian billionaire James Packer has listed his Italian-built superyacht for sale for a whopping $283 million.

The casino mogul bought the yacht in 2019, which boasts a cinema, nightclub, swimming pool and barber’s salon, and was originally purchased for around $200 million.

The yacht which is named IJE, believed to be after his three children Indigo, Jackson and Emmanuelle, has been listed on the site of international superyacht broker Burgess Yachts.

It states that it was “built as the ultimate world-cruising family yacht for a very experienced owner” and can fit 22 guests in 11 cabins, which includes a private owner’s deck.

Inside there’s a relaxed beach house-style interior by Benetti with IJE the longest yacht ever created by the company, while its also the flagship of their custom fleet.

The 108m yacht is described as having a “timeless sculptural exterior” and includes an elevator and three functioning levels including a sun lounge bridge deck with a firepit and open air dining with a lounge and bar on the main deck.

There’s also a great array of toys and watercraft that come with the yacht too, such as two 12m tenders, boats attached to the yacht.

The broker’s website described the 54-year-old’s yacht as offering “true world cruising credentials” with its Rolls Royce dynamic positioning system

His purchase of IJE followed after he gifted his 288-foot Artic P yacht to his sister Gretel in 2017, while he previously owned the 170-foot Amels Seahorse that was sold in 2015.

Mr Packer’s current net worth is estimated to be around $US3 billion ($A4 billion), according to Forbes.

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Around eight months ago, Mr Packer who owns Crown Resorts, gave video evidence to the NSW independent Liquor and Gaming inquiry into money laundering in his casinos.

It was examining evidence that the gambling giant facilitated money laundering by Asian high-roller “junket” tours at its Perth and Melbourne venues.

A probe into Crown Resorts recommended back in February that the embattled gaming giant have its Sydney casino licence revoked, in a crippling blow to its $2.2bn Barangaroo project.

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New working from home policies threaten to ruin the hybrid-working dream for millions of Australians.

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Who Owns Which Superyacht? (A Complete Guide)

Have you ever wondered who owns the most luxurious, extravagant, and expensive superyachts? Or how much these lavish vessels are worth? In this complete guide, we’ll explore who owns these magnificent vessels, what amenities they hold, and the cost of these incredible yachts.

We’ll also take a look at some of the most expensive superyachts in the world and the notable people behind them.

Get ready to explore the world of superyachts and the people who own them!

Table of Contents

Short Answer

The ownership of superyachts is generally private, so the exact answer to who owns which superyacht is not always publicly available.

However, there are some notable superyacht owners that are known.

For example, Larry Ellison, the co-founder of Oracle, owns the Rising Sun, which is the 11th largest superyacht in the world.

Other notable owners include Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich and Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen.

Overview of Superyachts

The term superyacht refers to a large, expensive recreational boat that is typically owned by the worlds wealthy elite.

These vessels are designed for luxury cruising and typically range in size from 24 meters to over 150 meters, with some even larger.

Superyachts usually feature extensive amenities and creature comforts, such as swimming pools, outdoor bars, movie theaters, helipads, and spas.

Superyachts can range in price from $30 million to an astonishingly high $400 million.

Like most luxury items, the ownership of a superyacht is a status symbol for those who can afford it.

The list of superyacht owners reads like a whos who of billionaires, with names like Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich, Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, and Amazon founder Jeff Bezos.

The most expensive superyacht in the world is owned by the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.

While some superyacht owners prefer to keep their vessels out of the public eye, others have made headlines with their extravagant amenities.

Some of the most famous superyachts feature swimming pools, private beaches, helicopter pads, on-board cinemas, and luxurious spas.

In conclusion, owning a superyacht is an exclusive status symbol for the world’s wealthy elite.

These vessels come with hefty price tags that can range from $30 million to over $400 million, and feature some of the most luxurious amenities imaginable.

Notable owners include the Emir of Qatar, Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich, Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, and Amazon founder Jeff Bezos.

Who are the Owners of Superyachts?

From Hollywood celebrities to tech billionaires, superyacht owners come from all walks of life.

Many of the most well-known owners are billionaires, including Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich, Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, and Amazon founder Jeff Bezos.

Other notable owners include Hollywood stars such as Leonardo DiCaprio and Johnny Depp.

However, not all superyacht owners are wealthy.

Many are everyday people who have worked hard and saved up to purchase their dream vessel.

Other notable billionaire owners include Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison, Saudi Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, and former US President Donald Trump.

These luxurious vessels come with hefty price tags that can range from $30 million to over $400 million.

For many superyacht owners, their vessels serve as a status symbol of wealth and luxury.

Some owners prefer to keep their yachts out of the public eye, while others have made headlines with their extensive amenities – from swimming pools and helicopter pads to on-board cinemas and spas.

Many of these yachts are designed to the owner’s exact specifications, ensuring that each one is totally unique and reflects the owner’s individual tastes and personality.

Owning a superyacht is an exclusive club, reserved for those with the means and the desire to experience the ultimate in luxury.

Whether they are billionaires or everyday people, superyacht owners are all united in their love of the sea and their appreciation for the finer things in life.

The Most Expensive Superyacht in the World

When it comes to superyachts, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Emir of Qatar, certainly knows how to make a statement.

His luxury vessel, the 463-foot Al Mirqab, holds the title of the world’s most expensive superyacht.

Built in 2008 by German shipbuilder Peters Werft, this impressive yacht is complete with 10 luxurious cabins, a conference room, cinema, and all the amenities one would expect from a vessel of this magnitude.

In addition, the Al Mirqab features a helipad, swimming pool, and even an outdoor Jacuzzi.

With a price tag of over $400 million, the Al Mirqab is one of the most expensive yachts in the world.

In addition to the Emir of Qatar, there are several other notable owners of superyachts.

Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich, Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, and Amazon founder Jeff Bezos all own luxurious vessels.

Bezos yacht, the aptly named The Flying Fox, is one of the longest superyachts in the world at a staggering 414 feet in length.

The Flying Fox also comes with a host of amenities, such as a helipad, swimming pool, spa, and multiple outdoor entertaining areas.

Bezos also reportedly spent over $400 million on the vessel.

Other notable owners of superyachts include Saudi Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, who owns the $200 million Kingdom 5KR, and Oracle founder Larry Ellison, who owns the $200 million Rising Sun.

There are also many lesser-known owners, such as hedge-fund manager Ken Griffin, who owns the $150 million Aviva, and investor Sir Philip Green, who owns the $100 million Lionheart.

No matter who owns them, superyachts are sure to turn heads.

With their impressive size, luxurious amenities, and hefty price tags, these vessels have become a symbol of wealth and prestige.

Whether its the Emir of Qatar or a lesser-known owner, the worlds superyacht owners are sure to make a statement.

Notable Superyacht Owners

When it comes to the wealthiest and most luxurious owners of superyachts, the list reads like a whos who of the worlds billionaires.

At the top of the list is the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, who holds the distinction of owning the most expensive superyacht in the world.

Aside from the Emir, other notable owners include Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich, Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, and Amazon founder Jeff Bezos.

All of these owners have made headlines with their extravagant vessels, which are typically priced between $30 million and $400 million.

The amenities that come with these vessels vary greatly from owner to owner, but they almost always include luxurious swimming pools, helicopter pads, on-board cinemas, and spas.

Some owners opt for more extravagant features, such as submarines, personal submarines, and even their own personal submarines! Other owners prefer to keep their vessels out of the public eye, but for those who prefer a more showy approach, they can certainly make a statement with a superyacht.

No matter who owns the vessel, it’s no surprise that these superyachts are a status symbol among the world’s wealthiest.

Whether you’re trying to impress your peers or just looking to enjoy a luxurious outing, owning a superyacht is the ultimate way to show off your wealth.

What Amenities are Included on Superyachts?

Owning a superyacht is a sign of wealth and prestige, and many of the worlds most prominent billionaires have their own vessels.

The most expensive superyacht in the world is owned by the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, while other notable owners include Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich, Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, and Amazon founder Jeff Bezos.

The cost of a superyacht can range from $30 million to over $400 million, but the price tag doesnt quite capture the sheer extravagance and amenities of these vessels.

Superyachts come with all the comforts of home, and then some.

Many owners will equip their vessels with swimming pools, helicopter pads, on-board cinemas, spas, and other luxury amenities.

The interior of a superyacht can be custom-designed to the owners specifications.

Some owners opt for modern, sleek designs, while others prefer a more traditional look.

Many of the most luxurious yachts feature marble floors, walk-in closets, and custom-made furniture.

Some vessels even come with a full-service gym, complete with exercise equipment and trained professionals.

Other amenities may include a library, casino, media room, and private bar.

When it comes to outdoor amenities, superyachts have some of the most impressive features in the world.

Many yachts come with outdoor entertainment areas, complete with full kitchens, dining rooms, and lounge areas.

Some owners even opt for hot tubs or jacuzzis for relaxing afternoons in the sun.

And, of course, there are the jet skis, water slides, and other exciting water activities that come with many of these vessels.

No matter what amenities a superyacht has, it is sure to be an experience like no other.

From the sleek interiors to the luxurious outdoor features, these vessels provide a unique, luxurious experience that is unrivaled on land.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing escape or an exciting adventure, a superyacht is sure to provide.

How Much Do Superyachts Cost?

When it comes to superyachts, the sky is the limit when it comes to cost.

These luxury vessels come with hefty price tags that can range from anywhere between $30 million to over $400 million.

So, if youre in the market for a superyacht, youre looking at an investment that could easily break the bank.

The cost of a superyacht is driven by a variety of factors, including size, amenities, and customization.

Generally, the larger the yacht, the more expensive it will be.

Superyachts typically range in size from 100 feet to over 200 feet, and they can be as wide as 40 feet.

The bigger the yacht, the more luxurious features and amenities it will have.

Amenities also play a significant role in the cost of a superyacht.

While some owners prefer to keep their yachts out of the public eye, others have made headlines with their extensive amenities.

From swimming pools and helicopter pads to on-board cinemas and spas, the sky is the limit when it comes to customizing a superyacht.

The more amenities a superyacht has, the more expensive it will be.

Finally, customization is another major factor that will drive up the cost of a superyacht.

Many luxury vessels have custom-designed interiors that are tailored to the owners tastes.

From custom furniture and artwork to lighting and audio systems, the cost of a superyacht can quickly escalate depending on the level of customization.

In short, the cost of a superyacht can vary widely depending on its size, amenities, and customization.

While some may be able to get away with spending a few million dollars, others may end up spending hundreds of millions of dollars on their dream yacht.

No matter what your budget is, its important to do your research and find out exactly what youre getting for your money before signing on the dotted line.

Keeping Superyachts Out of the Public Eye

When it comes to owning a superyacht, some owners prefer to keep their vessels out of the public eye.

Understandably, these individuals are concerned with privacy and discretion, and therefore tend to take measures to ensure their yachts are not visible to outsiders.

For instance, some superyacht owners opt to keep their vessels in private marinas, away from the public areas of larger ports.

Additionally, some yacht owners may choose to hire security guards to patrol and protect their vessels while they are moored or sailing.

In addition to physical security, some superyacht owners also use technology to keep their vessels out of the public eye.

For example, a yacht owner may choose to install a satellite-based communications system that allows them to keep their vessel completely off-radar.

This system works by bouncing signals off satellites rather than transmitting them, making it virtually impossible for anyone to track the yachts movements.

Finally, some superyacht owners also choose to limit the number of people who have access to their vessels.

For instance, the owner may only allow family members and close friends to board the yacht.

Additionally, the owner may choose to employ a limited number of staff to help maintain the vessel and keep it running smoothly.

These individuals may be required to sign non-disclosure agreements to ensure they do not disclose any information about the yacht or its owner.

Overall, while some superyacht owners may choose to keep their vessels out of the public eye, there are still plenty of other ways to show off the opulence associated with owning a superyacht.

From swimming pools and helicopter pads to on-board cinemas and spas, there are many luxurious amenities that can make a superyacht the envy of any jet setter.

Final Thoughts

Superyachts are a symbol of luxury and status, and the list of yacht owners reads like a who’s who of billionaires.

From the Emir of Qatar’s world-record breaking $400 million yacht to Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen’s vessel with a helicopter pad and on-board spa, the amenities of these luxury vessels are truly stunning.

With prices ranging from $30 million to over $400 million, owning a superyacht is an expensive endeavor.

Whether you’re looking to purchase one or just curious to learn more about the owners and their amenities, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to stay up to date with the superyacht scene.

James Frami

At the age of 15, he and four other friends from his neighborhood constructed their first boat. He has been sailing for almost 30 years and has a wealth of knowledge that he wants to share with others.

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Introducing AIX, 44.5m of exquisite Sanlorenzo Superyacht built in 2022 and available for charter in Australia and the South Pacific in 2024.

An unmissable opportunity to charter a brand-new Superyacht, AIX is constructed with an aluminium hull and superstructure, hull #6 of the highly successful Sanlorenzo Alloy model. Effortlessly cruising at 11 knots, she ensures a smooth superyacht charter experience with underway stabilisers to enhance onboard comfort. Thanks to her twin MTU diesel engines, AIX has an impressive top speed of 23.0kn, allowing guests to venture further faster.

AIX features exquisite interior and exterior design by Zuccon, with beautifully proportioned decks for unrivalled indoor/outdoor living. Highlights include the deck jacuzzi which is the perfect spot for enjoying the scenery with a cocktail in hand, or the 100-square-meter beach club, and the extensive toy chest which includes SeaBobs, dive gear and compressor, paddleboards, snorkelling equipment and so much more!

AIX accommodates up to 10 guests in 5 luxurious staterooms, delivering a level of innovation and opulence rarely seen in a yacht of this size. Most notably is the 147-square-meter master cabin which spans over three levels and has direct access to the foredeck pool. Additionally, there are two double VIP cabins and two twin cabins.

Adding to the charter experience, AIX features a brand-new TESORO T40 chase boat, which is powered by twin 350hp Mercury engines, and features a hydraulic swim platform, plus luxe accommodations for 4 overnight.

AIX will remain in Australia over the coming months, she will then tentatively be heading to Fiji from May 2024.

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• Length 35m / 116-ft
• weekly AUD$210,000, $30,000 every day after
• daily AUD$30,000, $3000 every hour after ($55,000 per day in peak season)
• Perth/Fremantle, Rottnest Island and Kimberley region itineraries, enquire about SE Asia and the South Pacific
• Rates are weekly MYBA Terms + expenses + local taxes

PARADISE is the finest yacht available for charter in Western Australia and beyond. We invite you to be our guest, to enjoy complete luxury on the sea and an opportunity to experience living out your nautical dreams, all you need to consider is your destination.

PARADISE is a sleek lined 35m Horizon motor yacht, featuring naval architecture by Don Blout and designer J.C. Espinosa. Characterized by spacious opulence, an exceptional level of workmanship and exquisite overall finish, PARADISE offers a quality in a yacht that has rarely been seen in Australia until now.

Launched in December 2014, PARADISE has a modern and contemporary design, with beautiful South American walnut flooring with accents in high-gloss ebony, providing a nice contrast with the light soft furnishings and décor found throughout the yacht.

Tender: Custom built 10m Naiad, with all the latest technology Custom built 5.3m Naiad Jet

Toys: 2 x Seadoo spark jet skis 1 x sea kayak 2 x surfboards Snorkelling equipment Diving equipment and Air-Compressor A wide range of fishing gear 1 x blow-up fiesta party island Assorted inflatable towing toys

Guest Accommodation: PARADISE accommodates 10 guests in 5 luxurious staterooms. On the main deck the master cabin stretched the full beam of paradise, complete with a super king size bed, large ensuite bathroom and closet. There are four exquisitely finished and appointed guest staterooms below deck, two VIP staterooms midships and two twin guest staterooms forward, all with their own ensuite bathrooms and top of the range audio and video equipment. There is separate accommodation for up to 6 crew.

Audio Visual Equipment and Deck Facilities: Top of the range audio and video equipment.

Communications: WiFi and Sat

Built in composite, and designed specifically for cruising Australian waters, Motor Yacht PARADISE can achieve a top speed of 21 knots and a cruising speed of 10 knots, thanks to her twin Caterpillar C32 diesel engines, and comfort is assured with ABT TRAC stabilizers with Zero Speed. Come onboard and indulge in another world…

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Superyacht Australia

World-cruising “batavia” refits at the boat works.

After more than five years exploring South-East Asia, the 41-metre Sovereign superyacht, MY “Batavia” chose to undertake a series of complex refit works at The Boat Works’ world-class superyacht yard.

Batavia is one of 47 superyachts of 24-metres+ from the Asia-Pacific and domestic Australian market to head to The Boat Works for service and refit projects since expanding its facility with the new superyacht yard in February 2020, attracted by the unrivalled array of skilled marine professionals on-site and Gold Coast’s largest boat lift at 300 tonnes.

Batavia’s owners had intended to travel to Auckland for the America’s Cup in March 2021, but their plans changed due to COVID19 travel restrictions.

Captain Mark Clacher has been the skipper for the owners for the past 16 years and at the helm of Batavia for six years, navigating the tranquil waters of Lankawi, Thailand, the Maldives, Indonesia, Cambodia and Borneo.

“The owners had cruised all of Australia and wanted to see all the wonderful islands on our doorstep, so we’ve been based in Asia for the past 5 and a half years,” he says.

When it came time to undertake repairs and some refurbishment, Captain Mark contacted Rod Twitchin, Director of RTMarine, based at The Boat Works.

Rod has had a long history with the vessels owner and crew and had overseen carried out the pre-purchase inspection on Batavia overseas six years ago.

“We could have stayed in Asia or chosen another yard,” says Captain Mark. “But Rod told us about The Boat Works’ new purpose-built Superyacht yard with 300 Tonne lift and all the facilities, so we headed to the Gold Coast.”

Batavia’s upgrades included an array of engineering works, plumbing and air-conditioning, antifouling and underwater lighting installs, refinishing works of the superstructure along with various interior and exterior refurbishments.

Refinishing works were undertaken by Superyacht Solutions. Steve Wicks, Director at Superyacht Solutions says they were thrilled to contribute to the Batavia project.

“Superyacht Solutions was delighted that a valuable customer of many years standing recently provided an opportunity to utilise The Boat Works’ spectacular new facilities.

“The hospitality and co-operation of The Boat Works’ staff were a boon to captain, crew and painters alike. We congratulate and commend The Boat Works on the thought and effort that has obviously been involved in the development of the new facility.”

Project Manager, Rod Twitchin says “It all went smoothly”.

“The biggest challenge was working to the tight deadline of seven weeks, which is often the case with commercial and privately-owned vessels. But we all collaborated and got it done.”

Captain Mark and his crew of four have enjoyed their stint on the Gold Coast, commenting on the laid-back lifestyle, spectacular beaches and waterways, idyllic weather and warm hospitality at The Boat Works.

“The marine facilities are fantastic,” he adds. “With efficient and top-quality trades that are centrally located, along with the convenience of a well-equipped Chandlery onsite proving to be very handy.

“The Boat Works’ yard is impeccably clean, with landscaped gardens and highly competent staff. Nothing is too much trouble. We were welcomed and given access to the resort like Captains’ and Crew Lounge, which was impressive.”

“The Gold Coast has become the recognised marine industry epicentre, directly employing around 10,000 people,” explains Shane Subichin, General Manager at The Boat Works. “The Boat Works has evolved to become the largest and comprehensive boating facility in the southern hemisphere.

“Superyachts are advantageous to boost our local economy and the revenue flows on to hundreds of suppliers and contractors across Queensland and northern NSW.

“They typically stay a month or two and can involve 20 to 50 contractors over the course of their works. Their Captains and crew enjoy weeks of R&R on the Gold Coast, seeing the sights and spending. Before they head off, they restock provisions and essential items.”

The Captain and crew of Batavia are looking forward to their next trip, and equally, getting back to The Boat Works in early 2021.

“After this first lot of works, we’ll be travelling south to Sydney for Christmas and New Year’s Eve celebrations,” says Captain Mark. “We’re very happy with the service and standard of work here. Everything has run smoothly and to budget. We’ll be back in early 2021 to complete the rest.”

After their next stint at The Boat Works, depending on restrictions, the owners of Batavia are hoping to travel to New Zealand and perhaps return back to the South Pacific and beyond when the time is right once again.

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Australian custom-superyacht builder echo yachts to construct world’s largest sailing catamaran superyacht., d’albora increases portfolio growth with two new marina assets, australia indepth documentary.

Superyacht Australia in partnership with superyachts.com is pleased to present ‘Australia InDepth’, a series of informative short documentary films on the vast and incredible destinations on offer when cruising in Australian waters and the world-class service capabilities available to support visiting vessels..

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North Star: Inside the 63m custom superyacht built for first-time owners

Step on board North Star , the 63 metre custom superyacht designed by Espen Øino and Ozgun Yacht Design , complete with a crow's nest, cinema and golf practice machine

As the world turns, the North Star holds steady over the North Pole. A point of reference in the night sky, it is a literal and symbolic guiding light. A little closer to home, the yacht North Star is a refuge, a place for relaxation and family time. Like the celestial body, for her owners, she is a constant in an ever-changing world.

A custom-built 63-metre, she was designed by Espen Øino with hull and superstructure constructed in Turkey. For the owners, who have had smaller sport boats for day jaunts in the South of France, it is a grand entrance into the world of superyachts.

“The destination of Turkey was chosen because of their reputation for hulls,” says the captain. “The aim was to build their dream yacht.” There they amassed a team of industry professionals to turn their aspiration into reality, including Øino for the general arrangement and design, RWD for the initial interior concepts, Estel Design to complete the interior design and Burness Corlett Three Quays (BCTQ) for project management.

For their dream yacht, the owners dreamt big – it was to be spacious and bright, embrace the outdoors, offer flexible and versatile arrangements and provide plenty of comfortable communal spaces for the family of six to be together, as well as plenty of spots for them to hide away.

As he always does, Øino approached the project from the inside out, conceiving the general arrangement first. With the focus on creating airy and capacious interiors, he stretched the aft part of the upper deck to full beam in order to envelope a generous upper saloon that rivals the main saloon below. Both of these rooms are fringed with full-height windows and boast head heights of 2.2 metres.

They are also incredibly elegant. The director of Estel Design describes the style as “modern deco”, a blend of art deco’s classic elements with contemporary furniture and finishes. Pops of bright colour also modernise the deco- esque palette of silver, black and white. Glass and stainless- steel accents complement rich fabrics, such as bespoke leathers, shagreen and silver leaf, which were chosen to enhance the sense of space, says Estel Design’s director.

Over the formal dining table on the main deck, 16,000 crystal beads make up the chandelier by Ben Robinson of TwentyFourDesign. Each bead is custom tinted and affixed in strands of five to a stainless steel frame. Another of Robinson’s designs shimmers like crystal rainfall in the foyer: a chandelier that descends over two decks inside the winding staircase. Affixed to a skylight above, the piece has no internal structure; instead, 4,000 brilliant cut K9 crystals are strung together using 16,000 bespoke fittings making one homogenous structure. It was a true feat to fabricate and engineer it to withstand heavy seas.

“The owner was keen to source and utilise unusual fabrications so we were challenged to look beyond our normal suppliers and source new collaborations,” says Estel Design’s director. “To meet the owner’s brief we chose a unique array of finishes rarely seen on boats.” This included the woven metal fabric by Sophie Mallebranche that adorns a feature wall at the aft entrance to the main saloon. In addition, “a specialist resin surface, Killon, was sourced from America after the owners fell in love with it. This was used extensively in all the bathrooms, main deck saloon and master suite.”

Also in keeping with the owners’ wishes, the en suites and dayheads – one by each foyer – are ultra-modern, featuring white Thassos marble trimmed in stainless steel. The sinks in the master bath are particularly sculptural, cut from a single piece of marble, and the mirrors above these vanities can slide open to let in natural light through a hidden window.

Incorporating dual-use and transformational spaces was another priority. For instance, the main saloon can be used as a cinema, with a screen and projector concealed in the overhead. In the guest quarters on the lower deck, the wall between the two aft cabins can be moved to create a large VIP with sitting room and cabin.

While the interiors are striking, the outdoor areas demanded just as much attention – perhaps more. “There was a lot of emphasis on the sundeck space,” Øino recalls. “That was the pièce de résistance of the whole boat.” To make this area as large as possible, he extended the deck to full beam and created an indoor/outdoor space with a central interior section whose bi-folding doors open fully forward and aft. “It’s really nice up here when you are at anchor with a 10-knot breeze just trickling through,” says the captain. “It’s the most stunning place on the boat, I think.”

Not surprisingly, it’s where the owners spend most of their time, the captain reports. Dressed in limed oak with pale blue fabrics, the covered midships space features deep sofas to sink into, as well as a full dining area for when leaving this haven for a meal feels like too much effort. Forward is a massive spa pool and sit-down bar , while aft is more lounging space, in the sun or under removable awnings. Above all this is a crow’s nest, a breezy cushion-covered hideaway for anyone seeking solitude.

The beach club and gym at the stern is another area that successfully makes the indoor-outdoor connection the owners desired. The transom opens to reveal a semicircular sofa and coffee table ideally situated for cocktails or coffee at the water’s edge. A starboard-side opening just forward of the beach club exposes the gym, which includes a Technogym treadmill and cross trainer recessed into the floor. And if your idea of fitness is enjoyed on the greens rather than the gym, there’s a golf tee practice machine that can be set up on the platform here or on the sundeck aft. On the opposite side of the yacht, the port shell door opens to launch the Chris-Craft and Williams tenders.

It’s hard to think of a water toy that North Star does not carry. With the transom door unfolded, a substantial four-metre swim platform is created, yet that’s not enough to handle the yacht’s complement of playthings. So the deck crew can erect a string of NautiBuoy inflatable platforms to provide a temporary dock for the WaveRunners, Seabobs, Reverso Air sailing dinghy, foiling and electric jet surfboards, stand-up paddleboards and more. Trailing this, an inflatable jungle gym with slide and bouncy “blob” can be set up. All of this is devised to tire out the family’s four children, but North Star will also cater to charter guests in the future .

Simple, clean lines define the yacht’s sharp- looking exterior, which is typical of Øino’s creations. “Really detailed and complex surfaces, in my view, tend to go out of fashion quickly, whereas simple straight lines generally tend to survive the test of time better,” he says. The full beam-upper deck and sundeck did give Øino a bit of a challenge. “It’s tricky because both of these decks are quite high up,” he says, “hence the importance of playing with tumblehome [the narrowing of a boat’s hull as it ascends above the waterline].” This, he explains, is how the superstructure appears to tuck in as it goes higher, if you’re looking at the boat from head-on or from the stern. “It makes it more dynamic and also alters and defines the way the light falls on the boat,” he says.

In terms of propulsion, North Star is straightforward, with twin screws powered by 2,000hp 12-cylinder MTUs, which allows speeds of up to 16 knots and a range of 4,500 nautical miles.

In the flat, calm seas off Antalya, sea trials were merely procedure, the captain says. It was the journey to Malta last September, then on to Barcelona, that was the true test. Hardly the optimal time of year for favourable weather, they were faced with gales up to Force 8 on the way to Malta, with seas uncomfortably on the beam, and even stronger winds in the tropical storm force range underway to Barcelona. While the weather laid low many crew with seasickness, North Star was rock steady. “She handled it very well; it impressed me really,” says the captain, who previously commanded two Lürssens of considerable size. “I’m quite impressed with the basic construction and the seaworthiness. You like to be able to grab something and notice that it does not flex. I can feel the sturdiness in the hull,” he says.

Of course, no one relishes that kind of passage, and the owners spent their first few weeks on board this past winter enjoying the opposite kind of experience: Caribbean anchorages with all-round protection like Antigua’s Nonsuch Bay and Virgin Gorda’s North Sound, where the still water and sunshine provided an idyllic setting for an escape. It shows just where faithfully following that North Star can get you.

This feature is taken from the July 2020 issue of BOAT International. Get this magazine sent straight to your door, or subscribe and never miss an issue.

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