millionaire on his yacht

Who is Guo Wengui, the Chinese billionaire who owns the boat Steve Bannon was arrested on?

WASHINGTON — Earlier this month, a sunburned Steve Bannon , holding a lit cigar and wearing a blue polo shirt with the collar turned up, stood in front of a camera on a yacht owned by his friend Guo Wengui, a Chinese billionaire.

A YouTube video shows Wengui putting his arm around Bannon as the former Trump campaign chairman denounces the Chinese government and extols the alleged benefits of hydroxychloroquine to treat COVID-19. The vessel's lavish interior gleams in the background.

On Thursday, Bannon was arrested by federal agents on that same yacht off Westbrook, Connecticut, and booked into jail on fraud charges. Though the charges appear to have nothing to do with the Chinese businessman, the arrest puts a new spotlight on Bannon's relationship with Guo, a controversial figure with his own history of legal entanglements.

Multiple people familiar with the matter tell NBC News there is a separate federal inquiry involving a company linked to both men, GTV Media Group. As The Wall Street Journal first reported Wednesday, the FBI, the New York state attorney general and the Securities and Exchange Commission are examining whether securities laws were violated during a $300 million private offering by the company this spring, the sources say. In a memo to potential investors, according to The Journal, the company identified Bannon as one of several prominent directors.

News Bannon and 3 others charged in scheme stemming from 'We Build The Wall' campaign

Last month, investigators with the Mercer Island Police Department in Washington state took an incident report from an unidentified victim who had become an investor in GTV Media Group Inc., with the promise it was launching a video-sharing platform, similar to YouTube, "that was supposed to go huge," according to an official familiar with the matter. The investor wired $500,000 to receive shares in the company by the end of May, but never received shares and wasn't able to get in contact with the reported suspect, the report stated. As of July 10, local authorities noted that no crime had been charged, and the FBI was investigating the matter.

The Mercer Island PD incident report identified the suspect as Guo Wengui, describing him as a "billionaire" based out of New York, and noted there were other victims. When Mercer Island police contacted the FBI, local investigators learned that Wengui appeared "to be a target of a large investigation personally and pertaining to his business," according to an official familiar with the matter.

When they followed up, investigators in Washington learned FBI agents had been investigating the case for about a month. "The victims that have been calling the FBI, FTC, and local police agencies have been reporting fraud for a failure to return on promised investments," the official said.

Guo's lawyer declined to comment, and Guo himself could not be reached.

Guo, who sometimes goes by Miles Kwok, is a mysterious and polarizing figure — a self-styled crusader against Chinese Communist corruption who has drawn the ire of the Chinese government but has also been sued by other Chinese dissidents. A former female employee alleges in an ongoing lawsuit that he repeatedly raped her, a charge he disputes. And a former Trump aide, Sam Nunberg, is among many who have sued Guo alleging defamation; he denies the allegations.

"Utilizing his world-wide publicity, high profile, social media accounts, and seemingly endless financial means, Defendant Guo regularly uses his public platform and power to defame and harass his enemies," Nunberg's suit says. "In this case, Guo set his sights on destroying Plaintiff Samuel Nunberg's reputation and livelihood by filing baseless litigation against him and slandering Nunberg with malicious, false lies which discredit Nunberg both personally and professionally." Nunberg's suit is ongoing.

Guo, who by all accounts made his money in real estate and securities, portrays himself in interviews and court records as an exiled whistleblower, proving an inside account of breathtaking corruption at the heart of the Chinese system.

"Guo is a pioneer of using YouTube and Twitter to fight for the rule of law, human rights, freedom and democracy in China," his lawyers wrote in court papers in a federal lawsuit in Maryland against a self-described Chinese democracy activist. "Guo has exposed widespread corruption in the Chinese Communist Party ('CCP'), multiple senior officials of the Chinese Government, and their family members."

That lawsuit itself offers an illustration of the divisions of opinion about Guo: The defendant, Hongkuan Li, a well known dissident who says he participated in the 1989 Tiananmen Square protests, accused Guo on social media of being a "gangster," a "communist spy puppy," "a rapist" and of "suffering from schizophrenia," Guo's lawyers wrote, charges they say are all false.

That lawsuit purports to recount Guo's history, which includes a 1989 incident he says turned him against the Chinese government.

As police sought to arrest him for supporting the Tiananmen protests, the suit says, "Two drunken policemen raided Guo's office and fired their weapons directly at his young wife, who was holding his three-month-old baby daughter. His younger brother…tried to protect Guo's wife and daughter and was shot twice in the altercation," the suit says.

Guo's brother was sent to the hospital, the suit says, but "the policemen who shot him instructed the doctors to refuse him any medical care and locked the door." As a result, he died, and Guo "vowed to become a persistent and brave advocate against the Chinese kleptocracy," the suit says.

As a New York Times magazine profile pointed out in 2018, that timeline doesn't appear to explain why Guo spent the next two decades growing rich in China through real estate development, a business that typically requires close cooperation with government officials even in democracies, let alone an authoritarian state like China. In nearly three decades after his brother's death, there is no record of Guo taking a public stand against the party he says caused it, the Times wrote.

There are darker allegations against Guo than hypocrisy, however. A lawsuit filed in New York state by a 28-year-old Chinese woman says Guo lured her to the U.S. from China to work as his assistant and then kept her prisoner for three years, repeatedly assaulting and raping her. The suit says she escaped while in London and went to the Chinese embassy, and that she filed a criminal complaint with Chinese authorities.

Guo's lawyers have denied the allegations in court papers. A lawyer for Guo told NBC News that Guo reiterated his denial of the allegations.

In a statement, the lawyer for Guo also said, “Mr. Guo is aware of the situation involving Mr. Bannon who has been a strong ally in fighting for freedom and democracy in China. Mr. Guo’s past efforts with Mr. Bannon in fighting for democracy in China had nothing to do with the We Build the Wall organization or Mr. Bannon’s activities with that organization. Mr. Guo appreciates that unlike the Chinese Communist Party, the United States of America affords all individuals accused in the United States, including Mr. Bannon, the presumption of innocence and the right for a fair trial before an impartial judge.”

In 2017, as Guo's public profile in the U.S. began to grow, a journalist from the Voice of America, a government-funded news service, arranged to interview him. The plan was to broadcast a live interview for three hours on social media, but top officials at Voice of America ordered it stopped after an hour and 20 minutes, according to documents and interviews, because they were concerned he was making unverified allegations.

Guo accused the VOA of having been infiltrated by Chinese intelligence, a serious charge that threw the agency into turmoil. But an investigation by independent journalism experts—and a separate State Department inspector general's inquiry — concluded that the decision was based solely on journalistic principles, VOA officials said. The journalist who arranged the interview, the chief of VOA's Mandarin Service, was fired.

In a 2019 tweet, the journalist, Sasha Gong, quoted Bannon as saying, "Voice of America tried to clear out all truth-tellers about China in Mandarin Service. VOA executives betrayed American people, Chinese people."

Earlier this year, a Bannon ally, Michael Pack, became the head of the U.S. Agency for Global Media, which includes the VOA, after a long confirmation delay in his Senate confirmation.

The veteran journalists in charge of the VOA, Amanda Bennett and Sandra Sugawara — both of whom were involved in the decision to stop the Guo interview — immediately resigned.

Ken Dilanian is the justice and intelligence correspondent for NBC News, based in Washington.

Andrew Blankstein is an investigative reporter for NBC News. He covers the Western U.S., specializing in crime, courts and homeland security. 

Tom Winter is a New York-based correspondent covering crime, courts, terrorism and financial fraud on the East Coast for the NBC News Investigative Unit.

Katy Tur is the host of "MSNBC Live" at 2 p.m. and a correspondent for NBC News. She is the author of the New York Times best seller "Unbelievable," about her time covering Donald Trump during the 2016 election, for which she also won a Cronkite Award.

10 of the most impressive superyachts owned by billionaires

From a sailing yacht owned by a russian billionaire industrialist to the luxury launch of the patek philippe ceo, here are the best billionaire-owned boats on the water….

Words: Jonathan Wells

There’s something about billionaires and big boats . Whether they’re superyachts or megayachts, men with money love to splash out on these sizeable sea-going giants. And that all began in 1954 — with the big dreams of Greek shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis.

Onassis, keen to keep his luxury lifestyle afloat when at sea, bought Canadian anti-submarine frigate HMCS Stormont after World War II. He spent millions turning it into an opulent super yacht, named it after his daughter — and the Christina O kicked off a trend among tycoons. To this day, the world’s richest men remain locked in an arms race to build the biggest, fastest, most impressive superyacht of all. Here are 10 of our favourites…

Eclipse, owned by Roman Abramovich

Built by: Blohm+Voss of Hamburg, with interiors and exteriors designed by Terence Disdale. Launched in 2009, it cost $500 million (the equivalent of £623 million today).

Owned by: Russian businessman Roman Abramovich, the owner of private investment company Millhouse LLC and owner of Chelsea Football Club. His current net worth is $17.4 billion.

Key features: 162.5 metres in length / 9 decks / Top speed of 22 knots / Two swimming pools / Disco hall / Mini submarine / 2 helicopter pads / 24 guest cabins

Sailing Yacht A, owned by Andrey Melnichenko

Built by: Nobiskrug, a shipyard on the Eider River in Germany. The original idea came from Jacques Garcia, with interiors designed by Philippe Starck and a reported price tag of over $400 million.

Owned by: Russian billionaire industrialist Andrey Melnichenko, the main beneficiary of both the fertiliser producing EuroChem Group and the coal energy company SUEK. Though his current net worth is $18.7 billion, Sailing Yacht A was seized in Trieste on 12 March 2022 due to the EU’s sanctions on Russian businessmen.

Key features: 119 metres in length / 8 decks / Top speed of 21 knots / Freestanding carbon-fibre rotating masts / Underwater observation pod / 14 guests

Symphony, owned by Bernard Arnault

Built by: Feadship, the fabled shipyard headquartered in Haarlem in The Netherlands. With an exterior designed by Tim Heywood, it reportedly cost around $150 million to construct.

Owned by: French billionaire businessman and art collector Bernard Arnault. Chairman and chief executive of LVMH, the world’s largest luxury goods company, his current net worth is $145.8 billion.

Key features: 101.5 metres in length / 6 decks / Top speed of 22 knots / 6-metre glass-bottom swimming pool / Outdoor cinema / Sundeck Jacuzzi / 8 guest cabins

Faith, owned by Michael Latifi

Built by: Similarly to Symphony above, also Feadship. With exteriors designed by Beaulieu-based RWD, and interiors by Chahan Design, it cost a reported $200 million to construct in 2017.

Owned by: Until recently, Canadian billionaire and part-owner of the Aston Martin Formula 1 Team , Lawrence Stroll. Recently sold to Michael Latifi, father of F1 star Nicholas , a fellow Canadian businessman with a net worth of just under $2 billion.

Key features: 97 metres in length / 9 guest cabins / Glass-bottom swimming pool — with bar / Bell 429 helicopter

Amevi, owned by Lakshmi Mittal

Built by: The Oceanco shipyard, also in The Netherlands. With exterior design by Nuvolari & Lenard and interior design by Alberto Pinto, it launched in 2007 (and cost around $125 million to construct).

Owned by: Indian steel magnate Lakshmi Mittal, chairman and CEO of Arcelor Mittal, the world’s largest steelmaking company. He owns 20% of Queen Park Rangers, and has a net worth of $18 billion.

Key features: 80 metres in length / 6 decks / Top speed of 18.5 knots / On-deck Jacuzzi / Helipad / Swimming Pool / Tender Garage / 8 guest cabins

Odessa II, owned by Len Blavatnik

Built by: Nobiskrug, the same German shipyard that built Sailing Yacht A . Both interior and exterior were created by Focus Yacht Design, and the yacht was launched in 2013 with a cost of $80 million.

Owned by: British businessman Sir Leonard Blavatnik. Founder of Access Industries — a multinational industrial group with current holdings in Warner Music Group, Spotify and the Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat — he is worth $39.9 billion.

Key features: 74 metres in length / 6 guest cabins / Top speed of 18 knots / Intimate beach club / Baby grand piano / Private master cabhin terrace / Outdoor cinema

Nautilus, owned by Thierry Stern

Built by: Italian shipyard Perini Navi in 2014. With interiors by Rémi Tessier and exterior design by Philippe Briand, Nautilus was estimated to cost around $90 million to construct.

Owned by: Patek Philippe CEO Thierry Stern. Alongside his Gulstream G650 private jet, Nautilus — named for the famous sports watch — is his most costly mode of transport. His current net worth is $3 billion.

Key features: 73 metres in length / 7 guest cabins / Top speed of 16.5 knots / Dedicated wellness deck / 3.5 metre resistance pool / Underfloor heating / Jet Skis

Silver Angel, owned by Richard Caring

Built by: Luxury Italian boatbuilder Benetti. Launched in 2009, the yacht’s interior has been designed by Argent Design and her exterior styling is by Stefano Natucci.

Owned by: Richard Caring, British businessman and multi-millionaire (his wealth peaked at £1.05 billion, so he still makes the cut). Chairman of Caprice Holdings, he owns The Ivy restaurants.

Key features: 64.5 metres in length / Cruising speed of 15 knots / 7 guest cabins / Lalique decor / 5 decks / Oval Jacuzzi pool / Sun deck bar / Aft deck dining table

Lady Beatrice, owned by Frederick Barclay

Built by: Feadship and Royal Van Lent in 1993. Exteriors were created by De Voogt Naval Architects, with interiors by Bannenberg Designs. She cost the equivalent of £63 million to build.

Owned by: Sir David Barclay and his late brother Sir Frederick. The ‘Barclay Brothers’ had joint business pursuits including The Spectator , The Telegraph and delivery company Yodel. Current net worth: £7 billion.

Key features: 60 metres in length / 18 knots maximum speed / Monaco home port / Named for the brothers’ mother, Beatrice Cecelia Taylor / 8 guest cabins

Space, owned by Laurence Graff

Built by: Space was the first in Feadship’s F45 Vantage series , styled by Sinot Exclusive Yacht Design and launched in 2007. She cost a reported $25 million to construct.

Owned by: Laurence Graff, English jeweller and billionaire businessman. As the founder of Graff Diamonds, he has a global business presence and a current net worth of $6.26 billion.

Key features: 45 metres in length / Top speed of 16 knots / Al fresco dining area / Sun deck Jacuzzi / Breakfast bar / Swimming platform / Steam room

Want more yachts? Here’s the handcradfted, homegrown history of Princess…

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The superyachts owned by tech moguls

Amazon founder Jeff Bezos is set to join the exclusive club of yacht-owning tech tycoons as the rumoured owner of Oceanco's mighty 127m sailing yacht . Though it should come as no surprise - other big names in tech such as the late Steve Jobs, Larry Ellison and Paul Allen have been responsible for some of the biggest and most ground-breaking superyachts in the world...

The 127-metre Oceanco sailing yacht Koru, formerly Y721, was launched and reportedly delivered to Amazon founder Jeff Bezos in April 2023. This three-masted schooner, meaning “new beginnings” in Maori, with an expected 33000 GT and a steel hull and aluminium superstructure, is the largest in the world and the longest built in the Netherlands at Oceanco. Knocking Lürssen's Eos , owned by Biller and Diane von Furstenburg, off the top spot, Koru harnesses design similarities with her black hull, white superstructure and classic lines. However, the intricate gold paintwork, scarlet bootstrap and elaborate figurehead on the bow particularly set her apart.

Larry Ellison

American business magnate Larry Ellison is the co-founder of the billion-dollar computer tech corporation Oracle. In 2004, he commissioned the 138-metre Lürssen superyacht Rising Sun (pictured), which stands today as the 15th largest yacht in the world. It was also the last yacht that ever came from the drawing boards of legendary designed Jon Bannenberg, sporting a military-esque profile with a lean destroyer-type hull and extensive use of structural glass . Rising Sun boasts 8,000m² of living space including a wine cellar and basketball court, with a crew of 45. One of her tenders, a catamaran, even carries the yacht’s 4x4 vehicle ashore. 

Ellison later sold the yacht to media mogul David Geffen and has since hosted a parade of Hollywood's glitterati on board including Leonardo DiCaprio, Steven Spielberg, Bruce Springsteen and Oprah Winfrey – to name a few. 

In 2011, Ellison appeared to downsize and took delivery of the 88-metre Feadship Musashi . Not unlike Rising Sun in its appearance, structural glass features heavily throughout with a central glass lift, surrounded by a stainless steel and glass staircase that passes through every deck.

More about this yacht

The late Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen is responsible for two of the most iconic superyachts in the world. At 126-metres in length, Octopus is perhaps his most famous. Built by Lürssen in 2003, this ice-classed superyacht was designed for extended cruising to the most remote locations on earth with a range of 12,500 nautical miles. Home to a helicopter garage, drive-in tender garage, six tenders, and a submarine, she packs a serious punch within her 9,932GT – not to mention the cinema, swimming pool, recording studio, basketball court and spa. At the end of 2019, she joined the market for the very first time , having completed an eight-month refit at Blohm+Voss, and remains the benchmark for exploration yachting.

Tatoosh is another honourable mention and was built by German shipyard Nobiskrug in 2000, three years prior to the delivery of Octopus . At 92-metres, she's smaller than her successor, but to describe Tatoosh as "small" would be a severe understatement. Highlights include a six-foot-deep swimming pool, a pair of helipads, a crew of 30, and a custom 12-metre Hinckley powerboat that she carries on her top deck. Tatoosh is also listed for sale following a refit earlier this year. 

Yachts for charter

The 78-metre Feadship Venus was built for the late Apple boss and founder Steve Jobs. Built under the codename Project Aqua, Venus was launched to international fanfare in 2012, heralded for its extensive use of glass and pared-back design courtesy of Philippe Starck . Innovative features include a false top deck that conceals the communication and television receivers from view and a passarelle that, when opened, looks like the charging port of an iPhone. Venus ’s interior details have been closely guarded since its launch. Sadly, Jobs died a year before the yacht was delivered.

Charles Simonyi

Charles Simonyi led the team that built the first edition of the Microsoft Office software suite and was rumoured to have previously owned Lürssen’s iconic 71-metre SKAT .  Nearly two decades after her launch in 2002, she joined the market for the first time and now Simonyi is thought to have upgraded to the 89-metre Lürssen Norn . Both yachts, penned by Espen Onion, share similar design features. Standout features include an alfresco cinema and adapted depth pool floor with dance floor. Norn was delivered in May 2023.

Sergey Brin

Google co-founder Sergey Brin reportedly owns the high-speed SilverYachts superyacht named Dragonfly , after Google’s once-secret project to launch a censored search engine in China. Delivered in 2009, the 73.3-metre Dragonfly was hailed as the fastest, most fuel-efficient long-range cruising superyacht on the water with a transatlantic range at 22 knots and a fuel consumption of only 360 litres per hour at 18 knots, extending her range to 4,500 nautical miles. Dragonfly is said to have a dance floor and open-air movie theatre on board. The vessel was applauded for its contribution to the disaster relief effort in Vanuatu after Hurricane Pam devastated the island in 2015. The crew reportedly moved 62 metric tons of freshwater ashore, treated over 250 patients, facilitated three medical evacuations, and built shelters in multiple villages and cleared numerous helicopter landing zones for ongoing support.

Google’s billionaire co-founder Larry Page purchased the 60-metre explorer yacht conversion Senses from a New Zealand businessman Sir Douglas Myers back in 2011. The globe-trotting superyacht features interiors by Philippe Starck and can accommodate a total of 12 guests on board, with primary guests reaping the benefits of the master suite's gyro-stabilised bed. Senses also houses an exceptional toy box with three high-speed tenders, six wave runners, a jet board and a JetLev. According to the New Zealand Herald, Senses is currently undergoing a refit in Whangārei, New Zealand, after being sold to an unknown buyer in 2020. 

Barry Diller

The world’s largest three-masted schooner – also the third largest sailing yacht in the world – is owned by fashion designer Diane von Fürstenberg and her husband Barry Diller, chairman and senior executive of IAC/InterActiveCorp and Expedia Group. The 92.92-metre sailing yacht, named Eos , was built in Germany by Lürssen and delivered in 2006 with a trio of masts that stand 61-metres tall. The sailing yacht has hosted the couple's star-studded group of friends including Andy Cohen, Gayle King, Bradley Cooper, Harry Styles and Karlie Kloss. The interiors were designed by Francois Catroux, who Vanity Fair named as “the super-rich's favourite interior designer" in 2016.

Mark Zuckerburg

The 107-metre Kleven superyacht Andromeda was built for serial superyacht owner Graeme Hart and delivered under the name Ulysses . In 2017, a year after its launch, rumours began circulating that Facebook founder Mark Zuckerburg had purchased the rugged, six-deck explorer (although a Facebook spokesperson was quick to stamp out the rumours and released a statement denying the claims). Andromeda can carry 36 guests and is equipped with an impressive inventory of toys and tenders, including six motorbikes, two ATVs, a helicopter and an amphibious rib. Five years after her launch, Andromeda still ranks among the largest explorer yachts in the world . 

Eric Schmidt

The former Google ceo Eric Schmidt backed out of the purchase of the abandoned 81.3-metre Oceanco Alfa Nero but has been said to have moved onto become the new owner of a 95-metre Lürssen. Kismet was sold in September 2023 to the billionaire as part of one of the biggest brokerage deal of the year. With the details shrouded in secrecy the yacht is now aptly known as Whisper . Espen Onio was responsible for her iconic exterior while inside was thanks to  Reymond Langton , achieving the original brief from the previous commissioning owner Shahid Khan of “caviar and champagne.” Standout details include the hi-tech, art deco saloon, a private observation platform and the Persian-inspired spa area.

The co-founder and former ceo of WhatsApp, Jan Koum, has been rumoured to own the 99.9-metre Feadship , Moonrise. The yacht’s clean and strong lines, penned by Chris Bottoms from Studio de Voogt , won the highly competitive class of best displacement motor yachts above 3,000 GT in the World Superyacht Awards 2021. Features include the helicopter landing deck and modern interiors by Remi Tessier . Accommodation is for up to 16 guests, and there are 32 crew members onboard Moonrise to attend to the guests' every need. The Ukrainian-American mogul is also said to own the accompanying support vessel Nebula.

Evan Speigel

The Silicone Valley ceo, Snapchat founder Evan Spiegel has been reportedly said to own the 94.8-metre Feadship Bliss. Delivered in 2021 the motor yacht penned by Feadship's Studio De Voogt Naval Architects has most recently been spotted cruising Auckland in September 2023. Spiegel is rumoured to be Feadship's younger client. Bliss can accommodate up to 18 guests across nine staterooms; however little else is known about the 2983 GT yacht.

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Millionaire Barrie Drewitt-Barlow branded ‘f***ing nightmare’ after family’s ‘impossible’ dinner demands on Below Deck

• Olivia Stringer
• Published : 17:00 ET, Mar 5 2024
• Published : Invalid Date,

MILLIONAIRE Barrie Drewitt-Barlow has been slammed over his behaviour on reality series Below Deck: Sailing Yacht.

The British businessman appeared on season 2 of the show, which first aired in 2021 but has just been added to Netflix, with his ex-husband Tony, their respective partners and five of their children.

Barrie and Tony shot into the limelight back in 1999, after becoming the first gay couple to have children via a surrogate.

The couple made their money from a trans-Atlantic surrogacy business and a global medical research company.

They split in 2019 but still live together and have remained great friends.

The family made an impression as soon as they arrived on the sailing yacht, with ten year old twins Dallas and Jasper arriving on the boat in ornately patterned three piece suits .

They had lots of demands for the staff, including refusing to be served buffet food and requesting to only be waited on by long legged heartthrob JL.

Barrie took to Instagram to share an abusive message that a troll had sent to him after viewing him on the show.

Inside Barrie's unconventional life

Barrie and Tony, who became civil partners in 2006, made history in 1999 when they became the first same-sex couple to be listed as "parent one" and "parent two" instead of "mother" and "father" on the birth certificate of their twins.

The dads won an historic court battle to get their names listed.

Twins Saffron and Aspen were conceived using both men's sperm and a donor egg from the US.

Since then, the family have spent £1 million growing their brood, with Orlando, born in 2003.

Orlando is technically triplet to older siblings Saffron and Aspen, but the egg and sperm was kept on ice.

Then came twins Jasper and Dalllas in 2010.

Barrie and Tony married in 2014 but separated three years later - with Barrie going on to become engaged to his former PA, Scott, and Tony meeting his new partner Brent.

Scott is the ex-boyfriend of the couple's daughter, Saffron.

Barrie and Scott's daughter, Valentina, who was conceived using both of their sperm, was born in 2020.

Romeo was born on 12th August 2022 via emergency C-Section.

The troll said: "Saw you guys on Below Deck.

"You are the biggest f *ing a hole human beings I've ever seen.

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"Asking the impossible, difficult, abusive".

"You deserve to be treated like s**t for the rest of your lives.

"You and your family can go f*** yourselves".

Replying to this message, Barrie shot back: "They see you on a reality show and think that you are literally an easy target lol.

"I mean come on, is it outrageous to ask for your meal to be brought out at the same time.

"And remember it’s a reality show, with 30 cast members all fighting for air-time you mug!

"The way flower gets none.

"Wake up! @natashadebourg [the Below Deck chef] and I are actually very very good mates".

During the episode, staff on on the boat struggled to keep up with the family's demands, with Barrie complaining about the portion sizes and only drinking out of crystal glasses that had to be hand washed.

"This is a f***ing nightmare", said chief stew Daisy.

Barrie moaned to the waiting staff, who were being rushed off their feet, that the family had been served at slightly different times.

"We can't eat like this", he complained.

Chef Natasha appeared to be enraged by Barrie's demands.

"I'm a f**ing chef, I'm not a clown, I don't do magic", she said.

Despite Barrie being unimpressed with the service on the boat, his trip did end on a high.

On the final night of the trip (which was also Tony's birthday) Barrie asked his boyfriend Scott to marry him.

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The family seemed overjoyed by the proposal, even Barrie's daughter Saffron, who is Scott's ex-girlfriend.

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What the World's Richest People Wear on Yachts

O h, to be a fly on the wall of the yacht Christina O… First launched in 1943 as a Canadian warship, she was present at the Normandy landings before being purchased by Greek shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis and beginning her life as a pleasure cruiser. Elizabeth Taylor and Frank Sinatra sipped cocktails on the boat’s whale-foreskin bar stools; Grace Kelly celebrated her 1956 wedding to Prince Rainier onboard. When Jackie Kennedy first started spending time on the boat in the 1960s in her silk headscarves, Valentino shift dresses and tailored capri pants, she burnished it as an epicenter of elegance.

Today, the Christina O is available to rent—for about $800,000 a week—to global businesspeople, stars and royalty in tracksuits and sneakers, and their bikini-clad entourages. It was also the location for the over-the-top vomitorium scene in the 2022 Swedish satirical film “Triangle of Sadness,” which skewered the nouveau riche with their luxe handbags and strappy swimsuits.

In her near-century floating on the high seas, the Christina O has seen the evolution from modest one-pieces to thong swimsuits on deck, and from white slacks to crop tops for lunch. 

The yacht vacation has become an in-your-face fashion show, complete with designer party duds and performative swimwear. When Kourtney Kardashian Barker and Travis Barker got married in Portofino last year, the guests wore mostly dark, sultry Dolce & Gabbana looks on and around the superyachts they stayed on. Beyoncé, a frequent yachter, has made an art out of brightly colored maillots and mini-outfits, like the lime-green Balmain get-up she wore to celebrate her 40th birthday. Whether they’re celebrities or more run-of-the-mill yachting enthusiasts, styles skew skimpy and loud—all the better to be spotted by the circling paparazzi.

“When a client comes to the boat, they bring their closet,” said Captain Sandy Yawn, a superyacht captain who appeared on the reality show “Below Deck Mediterranean.” “They want to shine in front of their friends.”

Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez have been in prime entertaining mode this summer on Koru, their new $500 million superyacht. Sanchez has been flaunting some aggressively revealing looks to shine for friends including Oprah Winfrey. She and Bezos have been extensively photographed frolicking in swimsuits, showering and working out aboard their boat.

To her engagement party onboard this month, Sanchez wore a silver crop top and miniskirt from Annie’s Ibiza, the vacation-wear stalwart founded on the island in 2018 by Annie Doble. She favors body-baring resort looks from the kind of upscale port-town boutiques that cater to visitors arriving by boat. 

Shopping at yacht destinations is a booming industry, with main drags in Monaco and Cannes currently undergoing major renovations to accommodate clients. Many of these towns have branches of luxury boutiques from Balenciaga to Chanel, as well as branded luxury beach-club pop-ups like Gucci’s in St. Tropez and Dior’s in Portofino. But for shoppers like Sanchez, the real draw is finding smaller boutiques that specialize in yacht-y looks from independent designers like Clio Peppiatt and Silvia Tcherassi.

“The yacht clients are very demanding,” said Valentina Arcucci, a buyer for high-end boutique Blu in Capri. She said that these shoppers, who often expect delivery by boat or shipping to their homes, have increasingly asked for vibrant colors and prints, and long dresses from brands such as Daniela Gregis and Mimi Liberté. She even made a video-call sale with a yacht this summer “due to the heat.”  

Arcucci said that the yacht client “buys many pieces but is always in a hurry. You have to be quick in selling.” There’s always another boutique to hit, dinner to dress for and selfie to pose for.

Certain brands are being particularly boosted by the yachtissance. When Jeff Bezos wore a loud Casablanca silk shirt to his New Year’s party last year, he catapulted the witty French men’s and women’s brand to a wider audience overnight. Its founder, Charaf Tajer, said that he thinks there’s a newfound focus on the vacation lifestyle postpandemic. 

Tajer, who noted that Kendall Jenner and P. Diddy have also worn patterned Casablanca shirts on yachts, said, “Our silk particularly is really fitting for the yacht life and the party life, because people can really just be themselves, and wear something that is lighter than a T-shirt. At the same time, it’s very dressed up and elegant.”

One limitation of yacht fashion is that shoes generally aren’t allowed onboard. Sofie Krunegård, the costume designer for “Triangle of Sadness,” said that when she was researching yacht style she noticed “Succession” got around that awkwardness by avoiding filming peoples’ feet on boats. She ultimately decided that having the characters be barefoot during the infamous captain’s dinner scene would be too weird—and sometimes exceptions are made for formal events.

Not everyone who wants to take part in yacht fashion has access to an actual yacht. Pertti Leppälä, a captain and yacht manager in Monaco, said that intruders were constantly posing in the gangways to his yachts, pretending they’re about to board. This way, he said, yacht or no yacht, “They can still make beautiful content.”

Write to Rory Satran at [email protected]

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Marrying Millions Season 2 Premieres This Summer: Meet the Cast!

PEOPLE can exclusively announce that the hit Lifetime docuseries returns on Aug. 5

Marrying Millions is back.

PEOPLE can exclusively announce that the hit Lifetime docuseries, which follows couples where one partner is extremely wealthy and one is not, returns for season 2 on Aug. 5.

Five new couples join the series alongside returning favorites Bill and Brianna from Dallas and Gentille and Brian from Las Vegas.

"Marrying Millions continues to expand our unique relationship content," said Gena McCarthy, Lifetime Unscripted's executive vice president of development and programming, in a statement. "We're excited to introduce five outrageously relatable new couples as they all navigate clashes of class, culture and background in pursuit of love and the American Dream."

Meet the cast:

Bill and Brianna — Dallas, Texas

Bill, who describes himself as 61 years young, founded and currently runs a commercial real estate company with investments in the billions. Twice divorced, Bill met Brianna, 22, at a popular restaurant in Dallas where Brianna was a hostess and the two started dating. Now that Brianna has become more accustomed to the tribulations of fitting in with Dallas high society, Bill must decide whether or not he's finally ready to settle down and propose.

Gentille and Brian — Las Vegas, Nevada

Gentille is a real estate investor who buys and sells extravagant homes, and in doing so, lives a lavish lifestyle. On the other hand, Brian works in construction and lives at home with his parents. Much to Brian's dismay, Gentille called off their engagement at the altar. He's holding out hope that they can get back together — but is she willing to rekindle things?

Dani and Donovan — McKinney, Texas

After a missed connection while attending the same high school, it was fate that brought these two back together down the line. From humble beginnings and raised by a single mother, Donovan now runs a highly successful multi-million dollar real estate company where he employs his girlfriend, Dani. Now that he has found success, he enjoys spoiling his girlfriend with lavish gifts and trips around the world. But issues simmer just below the surface, as Dani resents being his low-paid employee.

Rick and Erica — Miami Beach, Florida

Erica is a 23-year-old small town girl from Springfield, Illinois, while 68-year-old Rick lives aboard his yacht in Miami Beach. The shock factor of their 45-year age gap hasn't worn off on family and friends, including Erica's father, who doesn't understand their relationship. Rick met Erica through social media, and after liking some of her photos, moved quickly to ask her to live with him on his yacht.

Kevin and Kattie — San Diego, California

Kevin, 30, is a self-made multi-millionaire who first met Kattie, 23, when she traveled to one of his speaking events in Mexico. Despite a net worth approaching $50 million, Kevin is frugal with his money when it comes to spending on his girlfriend. This draws the ire of several of Kattie's friends, who don't understand the relationship despite her assurances that their love is pure.

Nonie and Reese — Seattle, Washington

Nonie made a name for herself in the London fashion scene as a nail tech, working her way up to eventually launch several successful international beauty brands. She met her polar opposite, Reese, 17 years her junior, after swiping right on Tinder and the pair have been inseparable ever since. Nonie has a fierce work ethic which has led her to obtain properties in New York, London and Seattle. Reese, on the other hand, occasionally works as an arborist and lives at a skate house with several buddies.

Rodney and Desiry — Washington, D.C., and Los Angeles, California

Multi-millionaire Rodney and his girlfriend Desiry are head over heels for each other, despite living separately on opposite coasts. Rodney made his fortune in the wine industry, which has given him the ability to take care of Desiry, who works for a non-profit. But their long-distance relationship has its share of challenges — including the fact that they have kept it a secret.

Season 2 of Marrying Millions premieres Aug. 5 on Lifetime. Marrying Millions: Couples Journey So Far premieres the week prior, on July 29 at 10 p.m. ET, to provide a look at what life has been like for Bill and Brianna and Gentille and Brian since season 1.

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'Even princesses have to take their shoes off on my boats!' Millionaire who sails the world throwing glamorous parties for the rich and famous lifts the lid on his exotic lifestyle

• Nicholas Frankl travels the world in a yacht and hosts parties for the super rich
• The 45-year-old says he loves the boating community and it's like a 'small family'
• He hosts events in LA, Florida, Bermuda, Monaco, Cannes, St Tropez and more

By Sadie Whitelocks for MailOnline

Published: 03:25 EST, 11 March 2017 | Updated: 05:59 EST, 14 March 2017

View comments

Many dream of the chance to one day step foot aboard a yacht.

But for a London-born entrepreneur, sailing around the world on a multi-million pound vessel hosting parties for the rich and famous is his job.

Nicholas Frankl's whirlwind travel itinerary, will take in Los Angeles, Florida, Bermuda, Monaco, Cannes, St Tropez, San Francisco, Miami and St Barths this year, where he will throw dazzling events attended by celebrities including the Prince of Monaco and Matt LeBlanc.

The 45-year-old jet-setter, who is set to star in new TV show How'd You Get So Rich, has lifted the lid on his extraordinary lifestyle and how to follow in his footsteps.

Lucky man: Millionaire Nicholas Frankl travels the world in a yacht and will take in Los Angeles, Florida, Bermuda, Monaco, Cannes, St Tropez, San Francisco, Miami and St Barths this year

Affluent clientele: Mr Frankl provides high net worth individuals with hospitality packages at some of the world’s most high-profile events from Monaco film festival to Antigua Sailing Week

Mr Frankl, a former Olympian bobsledder, throws glittering monthly events for the global elite at glamorous ports across the world. 

His yacht- which he borrows and does not own - is decked out with all the necessities for hosting high-end clientele including a large refrigerating unit to store the endless flow of party essentials.

'We're constantly having to restock ice and caviar,' the millionaire super yacht fan told MailOnline Travel.

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The boat boasts five luxurious bedrooms, a large open-plan kitchen and a salubrious sun deck complete with a bubbling hot tub enticing guests to unwind completely.

Everything has been finished to exacting standards, with fine wooden floors running throughout and furniture clad in the finest Italian leather.  

Mr Frankl employs 30 crew members to ensure his parties run like clockwork and continue to attract an affluent roster of movers and shakers across the world.

Along with a captain, there is also someone in charge of security and a professional chef. 

Friends in high places: Mr Frankl poses for a photo with from left to right, Prince Albert II, model Petra Nemcova, and Princess Charlene

MY YACHT FOUNDER, NICHOLAS FRANKL'S SECRETS TO GETTING RICH 

• If you're an entrepreneur then you are who your network is
• Try to give more to your network than you take
• Don't be a parasite
• Your personal and business brand is important so be careful with it
• Perseverance is important but don't stay wedded to a bad business idea, all the best know how to pivot
• Get up in the morning, that helps
• Show up on time
• Buy property as soon as you can then buy more but don't over extend!
• Live within your means and those of your business - going bust is a good lesson but painful and should be avoided
• Do what you say and say what you mean
• Be kind, people will remember
• Chasing wealth isn't a great goal, chase success in your pursuit of happiness
• Some of my wealthiest friends are 'happiness poor' you can be just as lonely aboard your $100million yacht as you can be in your studio
• Collect memories and experiences along the way not material stuff at some point you'll realise what's more important
• Enjoy life, your family and friends. This is not a dress rehearsal 

So, how did Mr Frankl stumble into this world of round-the-clock luxury? 

After his bobsledding career ended, he tapped into his entrepreneurial spirit and decided to combine his passion for the high seas and the high life.

Today he runs a business called My Yacht with his twin sister Annabelle. The firm provides high net worth clients with hospitality packages at some of the world’s most high-profile events from Monaco film festival to Antigua Sailing Week.

Many of their parties take place on some of the world's most lusted-after sailing vessels. 

Mr Frankl runs a business, called My Yacht, with his twin sister Annabelle, above, which provides high net worth clients with hospitality packages at some of the world’s most high-profile events

Hot ticket: Many of their parties take place on some of the most lusted-after superyachts in town

The two siblings speak out about their money-making antics in the new Channel 4 series How'd You Get So Rich?

In Monday's episode they will be seen mingling with the rich and famous as they host a party.

Women are dressed to impress but the heels must come off in case they damage the fine flooring - even the Princess of Monaco is asked to leave her shoes at the door.

Mr Frankl explains that he spends most of his time in Monaco and you 'need to put at least a million in the bank' before being allowed to reside there. 

Whizzing along on a speed boat he casually points out a yacht owned by his pal, Sir Phillip Green. 

'He probably didn't get a lot of change out of a hundred million,' Frankl says of the Topshop mogul's colossal vessel.

Mr Frankl reveals his favourite destination in the world is Monaco and attends the famed Grand Prix every year.

Crack it open! Matt LeBlanc gets into the party spirit at one of Mr Frankl's glittering events

The globetrotter says his parties are such a success because the offer guests a 'unique feeling of family, intimacy and connectivity'

Need for speed: Mr Frankl is also a fan of supercars, with Ferraris being one of his favourite brands 

Touching on the car racing event, he muses: 'There's simply nothing like it in the world. It’s a pageant for the global elite and all who follow them.' 

The globetrotter says his champagne-fuelled parties are such a success because they offer guests a 'unique feeling of family, intimacy and connectivity'.

Asked what his favourite thing about being on a superyacht is, Mr Frankl concludes: 'One is always smiling when you’re aboard a super yacht, whether in port or at sea, whether you're on a 25 foot or 250 foot. 

'There is always a sense of occasion on the water and it never fades. 

'These 150 foot-plus vessels are some of the most magnificent creations man can build.

'The craftsmanship, ingenious design, engineering, fabrics and fine materials... no home or hotel compares.' 

Nicholas Frankl will appear on Channel 4’s How’d You Get So Rich? on Monday 13 at 10pm.

• How'd You Get So Rich? - All 4

Share or comment on this article: Meet the millionaire who sails the world on a super yacht

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The Last of Sheila

A year after Sheila is killed by a hit-and-run driver, her wealthy husband invites a group of friends to spend a week on his yacht playing a scavenger hunt mystery game. The game turns out t... Read all A year after Sheila is killed by a hit-and-run driver, her wealthy husband invites a group of friends to spend a week on his yacht playing a scavenger hunt mystery game. The game turns out to be all too real and all too deadly. A year after Sheila is killed by a hit-and-run driver, her wealthy husband invites a group of friends to spend a week on his yacht playing a scavenger hunt mystery game. The game turns out to be all too real and all too deadly.

• Herbert Ross
• Stephen Sondheim
• Anthony Perkins
• Richard Benjamin
• James Coburn
• James Mason
• 121 User reviews
• 51 Critic reviews

• Clinton Greene

• (as Yvonne Romaine)
• American Wife
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• Trivia Anthony Perkins and Stephen Sondheim used to host murder mystery parlor games in Manhattan, New York during the late 1960s and early 1970s. The pair put on these occasional ruses for their friends, such as Lee Remick and George Segal . Another of their guests was producer and director Herbert Ross , who encouraged them to write a script based on this type of party.
• Goofs When the group lines up outside the yacht for the photo, Christine has her sunglasses on. When Clinton hangs up the photo, it shows Christine with no sunglasses.

Clinton Green : [Gesturing to a small island not too far from his yacht] You like it?

Clinton Green : [They all look, while Clinton beams proudly] I love it. Tiny, tiny islands fascinate my ass. I've got this crazy broker in London that sends me these brochures on all the islands for sale all over the world. Little impoverished islands. A few thousand dollars cash, and you're practically king to six shepherds and their families. Or whatever. I read every word on every island. Then you know what I do? I tear them neatly in half and drop them in the wastebasket. Then I say to myself...

Christine : [interrupting] I'm still weak, Clinton, but I'm eating solid food.

Clinton Green : I say to myself, "If there's one thing I hate, it's to have my island speech interrupted."

Clinton Green : [continues] I say to myself: "No, you poor people... you don't deserve a good king like me." That's what I say!

• Connections Featured in Film Extra: Richard Benjamin (1973)
• Soundtracks Friends Written by Mark Klingman and Buzzy Linhart Performed by Bette Midler

User reviews 121

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• Jul 13, 2003
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• June 14, 1973 (United States)
• United States
• Antibes, Alpes-Maritimes, France
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• $2,000,000 (estimated)

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• Runtime 2 hours

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$125M super yacht reportedly owned by an English billionaire is cruising the Great Lakes

No, your eyes don't deceive you — that is a 217-foot, $125-million super yacht cruising the Great Lakes. 

The Hampshire, reportedly owned by English billionaire Andrew Currie, has been making its way around the Upper Peninsula this month, stopping in various destinations, including Mackinac Island. 

Currie, a biofuel executive who is a director with chemical company Ineos, is worth about $3.5 billion, making him the 504th richest person on Forbes' billionaires 2019 list . 

While Currie is not publicly connected to the ship, MLive and the Mining Gazette   report the multibillionaire owns the Hampshire. Currie is also connected to Hampshire I, another super yacht that appeared at the Cannes Film Festival in May. 

The Dutch-built Hampshire can sleep 12 guests and carries a crew of 17 people, according to Boat International . The boat also features an on-deck pool.

The yacht stopped in Milwaukee on Aug. 7, according to the  Milwaukee Business Journal , then headed toward Traverse City.  TV6 also caught the yacht Aug. 12 in Marquette's Lower Harbor, where the station reported that crew members stopped on shore to support local business.

A Mackinac Island State Harbor employee said the Hampshire docked at the island Monday and was still there Tuesday morning. According to boat tracking site Vessel Finder , the yacht has a set destination of "cruising Great Lakes."

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DEATH OF OGDEN GOELET; American Millionaire Expires on His Yacht, Mayflower, at Anchor in Cowes Roads. ILL FOR ABOUT TWO MONTHS He Worried over Family Affairs, Particularly the Proposed Marriage of His Daughter to the Duke of Manchester.

U.S. to build temporary port for aid, Hamas says cease-fire negotiations continue

The U.S. military will build a temporary port and pier on Gaza’s coastline to provide a new route for humanitarian aid, President Biden is set to announce in his State of the Union address Thursday evening, according to senior administration officials. The officials, speaking on condition of anonymity under ground rules set by the White House, said the plan is part of Biden’s orders to “flood the zone” with assistance arriving by air, land and sea.

Hamas said in a statement Thursday that its delegation has left cease-fire negotiations in Cairo “to consult with the leadership of the movement” on issues including aid and the return of displaced people. Egyptian state media reported that talks would resume next week. Pressure is growing on parties to reach a cease-fire deal as the Islamic holy month of Ramadan approaches early next week. State Department spokesman Matthew Miller told reporters Wednesday that he was still optimistic a deal could be reached.

• Biden to announce U.S. will build temporary Gaza port for aid delivery
• Hamas delegation leaves Cairo, says cease-fire negotiations ongoing
• Houthi missile kills three civilian mariners on True Confidence vessel

Here's what to know:

Here's what to know, live coverage contributors 14.

5:39 p.m. EST 5:39 p.m. EST

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• Houthi strike kills 3 civilian mariners, U.S. officials say, the first fatalities in militants’ campaign March 6, 2024 Houthi strike kills 3 civilian mariners, U.S. officials say, the first fatalities in militants’ campaign March 6, 2024
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Israel-Gaza war

Israel-Gaza war: Amid dimming hopes that an Israel-Hamas cease-fire and hostage-release deal will be reached before the start of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan , President Biden has ordered the U.S. military to construct a temporary port and pier on Gaza’s Mediterranean coast to open a new route for providing humanitarian aid.

Middle East conflict: Tensions in the region continue to rise. As Israeli troops aim to take control of the Gaza-Egypt border crossing, officials in Cairo warn that the move would undermine the 1979 peace treaty. Meanwhile, there’s a diplomatic scramble to avert full-scale war between Israel and Lebanon .

U.S. involvement: U.S. airstrikes in Iraq and Syria killed dozens of Iranian-linked militants , according to Iraqi officials. The strikes were the first round of retaliatory action by the Biden administration for an attack in Jordan that killed three U.S. service members .

Top 10 billionaires and their yachts in 2022

Mega Yachts are the ultimate expression of luxury, sophistication, and extravagance.

Some are equipped with cinemas, helipads, concert halls, and even beaches on board; others are the garage of other smaller boats, mini-submarines, and a whole sports club.

Without a doubt, these mega yachts show us how to live a true life of luxury. But in order to live beautifully and with taste it is not necessary to have such an expensive boat. Drop anchor in a beautiful bay, put on nice clothes, pour wine into expensive glasses and watch the sunset. A romantic sunset on your own boat, even if not very expensive, will be no worse than a millionaire’s, and maybe even better. But if you do not have a boat, then it will be difficult to enjoy the beauty of the sunset, not accessible from the shore. In this case, Zeboats will help you, here are yachts and motor boats for every taste and price.

Here are the “Top 10” of the most expensive mega yachts in the world, owned by Russian oligarchs, royals, billionaires, and more:

10. Lady Moura

Table of Contents

Cost: $ 210 million (€ 185 million)

Owner: Nasser Ibrahim Al-Rashid

Lady Moura is a luxurious 105-meter (344-foot) private mega-yacht owned by Saudi billionaire Nasser Ibrahim Al-Rashid, considered one of the most influential advisers to the royal family of Saudi Arabia.

In addition to having her name and shield in 24-karat gold, the Lady Moura also includes a pool with a retractable roof.

But, without a doubt, the most impressive aspect of this mega yacht is its Beach Club.

Lady Moura has hosted great personalities from around the world, including former US President George H. W. Bush and his wife Barbara.

9. Rising Sun

Cost: $ 290 million (€ 255 million)

Owners: Larry Ellison and David Geffen

The actor, Leonardo DiCaprio, is one of the celebrities who has been seen aboard this boat.

Rising Sun is a luxury yacht designed by Jon Bannenberg, and built by the German shipyard Lürssen. Currently, the mega yacht is co-owned by Larry Ellison, founder of Oracle Corporation, along with David Geffen.

The yacht is considered the # 11 largest in the world with a length of almost 138 meters (453 feet).

Rising Sun has 8,000 square meters of space and 82 rooms spread over its five levels.

This mega yacht has a basketball court on the main deck (which can be used as a helicopter platform if necessary), plus another helipad.

It also features Onyx countertops, Jacuzzi baths, a gym/spa and sauna, a large wine cellar, and a private cinema with a giant plasma screen.

Cost: $ 300 million (€ 262 million)

Owner: Sammy Tak Lee

Pelorus is the fourteenth largest luxury yacht in the world at 115 meters (377 feet) in length. It was designed by Tim Heywood and built by Lürssen in Bremen, Germany in 2003.

It was briefly owned by a Saudi businessman who sold it to Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich. After buying it, Abramovich ordered the German shipyard Blohm & Voss to adapt it to his own needs.

These adaptations included a second forward helipad, four new speed stabilizers, and modifications to the exhaust, mast, and stern.

Details about the interiors are scarce, as the Russian oligarch is well known for being a protector of the privacy of his family and very security conscious.

“This mega yacht is so huge that it also has a mini-collection of small boats.”

The master suite has a movable wall, which can be lowered and transformed into a private terrace. Impressive!

Irina Abramovich received this yacht in 2009 as part of her divorce agreement with the Russian billionaire. In 2011, Abramovich’s ex-wife sold her through brokerage Merle Wood to American business magnate and producer David Geffen for $ 300 million.

In 2011, Geffen sold Pelorus to the Foreign Minister of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, for € 214 million ($ 188 million).

In 2016, Pelorus was sold to Chinese billionaire Samuel Tak Lee. According to Forbes, Tak Lee has an estimated net worth of $ 3.9 billion.

7. Motor Yacht ‘A’

Cost: $ 300 million

Owner: Andrey Melnichenko

The name “A” was chosen so that this fabulous vessel would always appear first in the shipping records.

This 120-meter (394-foot) mega-yacht, one of the most famous in the world, was designed by Philippe Starck and hatched by architect Martin Francis.

‘A’, owned by Russian magnate Andrey Melnichenko, has a 2,500-square-foot main room, six suites, and versatile interior spaces thanks to glass and sliding walls.

At 119 meters (~ 390 feet) long and displacing nearly 6000 tons, ‘A’ is one of the largest yachts in the world.

This mega yacht can accommodate a total of 14 guests and has 35 crew members on board. ‘A’ has a maximum speed of 23 knots and a cruising speed of 19 knots.

Cost: $ 305 million (€ 267 million)

Owner: Sultan Qaboos of Oman

Al Said is another of the most impressive mega yachts in the world. Its interiors were designed by Redman Whiteley Dixon and it has enough facilities to accommodate up to 70 people.

Perhaps the most opulent thing about this mega yacht is its concert hall, large enough to house an orchestra of 50 musicians.

Al Said was launched by the Lürssen shipyard in September 2007, and at the time of her launch, she was the second-longest yacht in the world.

The yacht was completed in the following months and was handed over to its owners in 2008 by the Sultan of Oman, Qabus bin Said al Said.

Cost: $ 330 million (€ 290 million)

Owner: Saudi Crown Prince Mohamed bin Salman

In 2010, the Russian billionaire, Yuri Shefler, entrusted Ficanteri to create his spectacular private yacht “Serene”.

A year later, in August 2011, the Italian shipyard delivered the new megayacht to the Russian oligarch.

The vessel has no less than 4,459 square meters of space spread over seven decks, with a fully equipped spa, movie theater, and even a wood-burning pizza oven.

Serene is 133.9 meters (439 feet) long.

In 2015, Serene was sold to the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, Mohamed bin Salmán, for an amount of $ 550 million, about 483 million euros.

Cost: $ 400 million (€ 357 million)

Owner: Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum

This 162-meter (524-foot) megayacht is the third-largest private vessel in the world.

It is owned by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, ruler of the Emirate of Dubai, and current Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

It has seven magnificent terraces perfect to relax and a small submarine to explore life under the sea. It was built by the German shipyard Blohm & Voss.

Cost: $ 600 million (€ 527 million)

Owner: Alisher Usmanov

Dilbar is currently the best definition of elegance and glamor at sea.

The 156-meter (512-foot) long mega yacht was built by the German shipyard Lürssen.

Dilbar is the largest private vessel in the world, by interior volume (Azzam is longer but with less volume).

Dilbar was handed over to her owner, Uzbek-born Russian magnate Alisher Usmanov, in May 2016. The huge yacht was designed by Espen Oeino.

Powered by a gigantic 30,000 kW ‘Diesel’ electric motor, this superyacht is capable of sailing at speeds of up to 22.5 knots.

She seats 40 people and has a crew of at least 80.

Despite being surrounded by the ocean itself, Dilbar’s designers did not skimp on their 180 cubic meter indoor pool, the largest ever built inside a yacht.

Cost: $ 600 million

Owner: Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan

Although Azzam is not the most expensive private mega yacht in the world, it is the largest (in length) in the world.

This monster of a length of 179.8 meters (590 feet), is capable of reaching an impressive top speed of almost 30 knots. Azzam was manufactured by Lürssen Yachts.

Launched in 2013, Azzam is owned by Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahayan, President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Emir of Abu Dhabi.

Cost: $ 1.5 billion (€ 1.31 billion)

Owner: Roman Abramovich

Owned by Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich, Eclipse is the most expensive megayacht on this list.

It is a monstrous vessel measuring 170 meters (560 feet) in length, a size that makes it the second-largest private yacht in the world.

Eclipse has two helipads, 11 guest cabins, two pools, several Jacuzzis, and a disco room, she also comes equipped with three tenders, and a mini-submarine that is capable of diving to 50 meters.

Approximately 70 crew people are required for the operation of the huge vessel.

And how could it be otherwise, including security reasons, Eclipse is equipped with intrusion detection systems and a German-made anti-missile defense system.

The windows in Mr. Abramovich’s master bedroom are also fitted with armored glass.

Eclipse was built by Blohm + Voss, the renowned shipbuilder based in Hamburg, Germany.

Roman Abramovich also owns two other mega yachts, “Ecstasea”, and “Le Grand Bleu”, the latter given to a friend of his named Eugene Shvidler.

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The world's most expensive superyachts come with helipads, movie theaters, and swimming pools — take a look

• Many superyachts cost upwards of $200 million dollars and are owned by the wealthiest billionaires in the world.
• The most expensive yacht ever built is made from solid gold, and costs a whopping $4.8 billion.
• The yachts have features like movie theaters, concert halls, and multiple swimming pools. 

Some of the world's wealthiest individuals own the most outlandish yachts. 

With features like helipads, swimming pools, saunas, hot tubs, and more, the most expensive yachts in the world are the definition of luxury. Russian tycoons, oil  Sheikhs, and entertainment moguls are vacationing on yachts spanning over 200 feet that often cost over half a billion dollars, not to mention the  maintenance costs  of owning a superyacht.

Check out some of the most expensive yachts in the world below: 

$200 million: Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen owns this 414-foot yacht called the Octopus. It has 41 suites, a pool, two helicopters, a basketball court, and a recording studio.

Source: Forbes

$200 million: The Seven Seas yacht has a movie theater, infinity pool, gym and helipad. Reportedly, it once belonged to Stephen Spielberg.

$210 million: Billionaire Nassar Al-Rashid owns this yacht embellished with 24-karat gold lettering.

$250 million: Qatar's former Prime Minister, Hamad bin Jassim bin Jaber Al Thani, owns the $250 million Al Mirqab. It has a movie theater, outdoor bar, indoor swimming pool, jacuzzi, and helipad.

Source: Daily Mail

$256 million: The Dilbar is owned by Russian billionaire Alisher Usmanov. With more than 3,800 square meters of living space, the Dilbar makes for a comfortable way to travel. It also has two helipads and an indoor swimming pool.

Source: Yacht Harbour 

$300 million: The Sultan of Oman owns the 509-foot long Al Said yacht. It has room for more than 60 guests and a concert hall that can house a 50-piece orchestra.

$350 million: Russian billionaire Andrey Melnichenko owns Motor Yacht A, which resembles a military-style submarine and has a helipad.

Source: The Sun 

$400 million: Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates, owns the massive Dubai yacht, which costs an estimated $400 million. It has a mosaic swimming pool, circular staircase, and helipad.

$500 million: Andrey Melnichenko also owns Sailing Yacht A, which has an underwater viewing pod.

Source: CNN Money 

Source: Boat International 

$560 million: Mohammed bin Salman, the deputy crown prince of Saudi Arabia, owns this 440-foot yacht dubbed the Serene. At $560 million, it has 15 rooms, a club, multiple swimming pools, a spa, a gym, and two hot tubs.

Source: New York Times

Source: The Observer

$590 million: Entertainment mogul David Geffen owns this 454-foot superyacht know as the Rising Sun, complete with a basketball court and space for 18 overnight guests. In April 2017, Geffen hosted the Obama family on his yacht.

Source: Business Insider

$600 million: The Azzam yacht is the world's biggest private superyacht, and is rumored to have a submarine with a missile defense system. It is speculated to be owned by Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates.

Source: CNN

$600 million: Russian billionaire Roman Abramovitch's yacht, dubbed the "Eclipse" is estimated to be anywhere from $600 million to $1.5 billion. The superyacht features several helipads, more than 20 guest cabins, two swimming pools, a sauna, and several hot tubs.

$4.8 billion: The History Supreme is made from solid gold and is the most expensive yacht in the world. It reportedly sold to a Malaysian businessman in 2011.

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Viral video shows multiple sharks steal catch, then attack fishing boat motor in Florida

Video shows multiple sharks trying to steal a red snapper off a fishing line during a charter trip off the coast of cocoa beach, florida..

A recent viral video of a shark feeding frenzy near Cocoa Beach shows a swarm of powerful sharks stealing a catch of red snapper from a charter fishing expedition. Jamie Glasner, owner of Fin and Fly Charters , says he's seen more and more sandbar sharks like the ones who ate a red snapper off the line this week off Florida's east coast. Glasner said the feeding frenzy wasn't typical for what he normally sees as a charter fishing captain.

Sharks galore: 10-foot great white shark pings again in Southwest Florida waters, this time off Sarasota

"What was different about this situation is when your fish gets eaten, it can be any depth down below the boat. This time it happened as we were reeling it out," Glasner said. "The shark jumps out and suddenly all the other sharks come out and started a frenzy on the surface. Some sharks were getting bit by other sharks," he added. "Anything that moves or makes vibration in the water they’ll attack it."

Here’s what we know about the Florida sharks video and why it went viral.

What did viral shark video from Cocoa Beach, Florida, show?

Two videos captured by a charter fishing captain show incorrigible sharks coming head to head with fishers in the Atlantic Ocean. One clip shows multiple sharks fighting over a red snapper on a line as it’s being reeled in as the frenzy devolves into the sharks nipping each other and biting the boat’s motor.

Another video captured by Jamie Glasner shows a blue fish on a rope attached to the boat as a shark hangs on and refuses to let go of the rope no matter what. In both instances, the stubborn sharks are dead set on getting a free meal.

Did a shark eat a boat motor in Florida?

Not exactly. According to a video taken by Jamie Glasner of Fin and Fly Charters, several sharks, attracted by a red snapper, came to swarm the catch. Because sharks are attracted to vibrations in the water, some of the animals went toward the boat's motor and bit it, he said.

What is a sandbar shark?

Sandbar sharks are a protected shark species and among the largest species found in coastal waters, according to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration fisheries, the agency tasked with regulating offshore fishing. Sandbar sharks can grow between 100 and 200 pounds and grow up to 8 feet in length.

Their diet includes everything from fish, to octopus to other sharks, and they can be found all along the East Coast as well as the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean.

Why are shark populations booming in Florida?

Charter fishing captain Jamie Glasner said NOAA restrictions on fishing for the sharks instituted in 2008 have resulted in a huge population boom for the sharks. He regularly takes groups with Fin and Fly Charters miles and miles offshore to catch and release the large animals, which are protected under federal law.

Restrictions on fishing for the sharks have been in place since 2008.

"NOAA fisheries probably needs to do another assessment and look at the shark population," Glasner added.

'They don't see us as humans': Family's anger at people smugglers after daughter dies in boat tragedy

Rula drowned when the migrant boat she and her family were in capsized in northern France. Her father tells Sky News his seven-year-old daughter died because "the people smugglers have no morals".

Europe correspondent @adamparsons

Friday 8 March 2024 16:41, UK

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Mohammed looks at me, his eyes wet from tears, and shakes his head gently. Grief is like a weight around him, which he meets with forced smiles and choked-back tears.

"Every day, I think of dying a hundred times," he says.

Next to him is his wife, Nour, heavily pregnant and sobbing into her hands. She is due to give birth in just a couple of weeks, but now mourns her daughter just as she awaits the arrival of a son.

It is less than a week since Rula drowned in a French canal , and the devastation is still desperately etched on their faces.

Nour unlocks her phone and calls up a photo of Rula. She is smiling out from the screen.

"She was beautiful and I lost her. My little princess. She was seven years old, she had seen nothing in this world. We just wanted to make their lives better," she says.

Rula died because of the family's dream of reaching Britain. They had spent years travelling from Iraq, where their lives were threatened, across Europe, to Germany and then on to France.

A few days ago, the family boarded a boat in France, intent on reaching Britain. They had paid a people smuggler €6,000, and been promised seats aboard the sort of vessel used for tourist trips - safe and reliable.

Instead, they were placed on a death-trap - an overloaded stolen pleasure-boat with no life jackets that capsized on a canal. Rula, who had sought refuge from the noise in a small cabin at the front of the boat, was trapped inside.

"The water came into the cabin and she was stuck," says Mohammed.

"The smugglers had left us. I had to rescue my wife, my son and another person. But I couldn't rescue her."

They are too tired to shout or become furious. But if you ask them about blame, then the answer comes back.

"My daughter died and the reason why is because of the people smugglers who have no morals," he says.

"They fooled us, took money from us and threw us in the water without any mercy. They do not see humans as humans - they only see materials and money."

Besides them are their three sons - Muhaimen, 14, Hassan, 10, and Moamel, eight. They listen and nod along quietly.

"She was very dear to us, but what do we do?" says Hassan, when I ask him about his sister.

"I want her to come back but she won't." His grief is so thick it bewilders him.

The family invited us to talk to them. They wanted the world to know about their daughter, but they also wanted to talk about their exasperation with the life they've ended up living - fleeing a home where they cannot stay, but struggling to find a place where they can actually settle.

"I do not know what to do or where to go," Nour says. "What crime have these children committed? What is their future? I need a country to listen to me, just take their papers."

Mohammed nods and holds his wife. "When you reach a point when your life is not secure, when your children could get killed, you have no choice but to migrate and go to countries that preach humanity.

"But when you talk to them, tell them your story, they threaten you with deportation. Our children are smart but honestly, sometimes we wonder - why did we bring them into this world?"

I ask if they would still like to go to Britain, despite all the trauma they have experienced. The answer is yes. Remarkably, they plan on trying again.

A message comes through. The family has been asked to go to the morgue in Lille.

Mohammed comes in and out, a ball of nervous tension. Hassan and Moamel play with a paper aeroplane on a patch of lawn over the road from the morgue. They find a ladybird and agree that Rula would have loved it.

But then they are called back in, and they see her body, and when we see the boys next they are silent but for their weeping.

A short while later, Rula's body is released to the family but there is little time to waste. Muslim tradition dictates that the burial must take place before sunrise.

When we get to the graveyard, there are dozens of people waiting - sympathetic strangers who've come to offer solace. You can see the family are touched.

At the far end, under the shadow of a tall electricity pylon but shaded from the traffic noise, Rula's coffin is lowered into a grave.

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There is a prayer, a moment of reflection, and then the grave is filled in. Her father and brothers all rub their hands in the soil. A bag is filled with the dirt and given to Nour. Flowers are placed over the grave, as well as photos of Rula. A marker is put in place, remembering her name. Hassan kisses it.

We say goodbye to the family, and one thing strikes me. If Mohammed, Nour and their children do eventually get to the UK, they will not be allowed to travel abroad again for a long time.

Reaching Britain will mean being cut off from their daughter's final resting place, unable to lay flowers on Rula's grave. Like so much in the story of migration, it is also a tale of making terrible choices.

Related Topics

• Migrant Crisis

• Entertainment
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Man charged months after victim falls off boat, dies in Biscayne Bay

Fwc: eric rodriguez, 24, had been drinking, was speeding prior to crash.

Amanda Batchelor , Digital Executive Producer

MIAMI – A 24-year-old man was arrested Wednesday, nearly six months after a passenger on his boat died after falling into the waters of Biscayne Bay, authorities said.

Eric Rodriguez, of Miramar, is charged with manslaughter while boating under the influence and vessel homicide/operating in a reckless manner.

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According to his arrest report, Rodriguez was driving his 26-foot Sea Hunt boat at a high rate of speed on the night of Sept. 23, 2023 as it was dark outside and raining.

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission officers said the boat was heading north in the Intracoastal Waterway in Biscayne Bay with Rodriguez and six passengers onboard.

GPS data shows that the boat had left Miami Marine Stadium and had been traveling in and out of the channel at about 46 mph in a 30 mph zone, the report stated.

According to the report, as the boat was passing the 79th Street Causeway, one of the passengers, Justin Sosa, moved from the back of the boat to the starboard (right) side of it.

FWC officers said Rodriguez then struck a channel marker in the water, causing Sosa to be thrown from the boat and strike his head on the channel marker.

Rodriguez didn’t stop the boat until other passengers alerted him that Sosa had fallen overboard, authorities said.

Officers said the group searched for Sosa and one passenger called 911.

Rescue divers found Sosa’s body a few hours later in the morning at the bottom of the bay near Channel Marker #20, the report stated.

According to the report, an autopsy revealed that Sosa died from blunt force injuries.

Officers said Rodriguez smelled of an alcoholic beverage as they were speaking with him and said passengers onboard his boat confirmed that he had been drinking vodka while at Miami Marine Stadium.

Toxicology results showed he had a blood-alcohol level of .079 about six hours after the crash, according to the report.

Copyright 2024 by WPLG Local10.com - All rights reserved.

About the Author:

Amanda batchelor.

Amanda Batchelor is the Digital Executive Producer for Local10.com.