where is octopus yacht now

OCTOPUS current position and history of port calls are received by AIS. Technical specifications, tonnages and management details are derived from VesselFinder database. The data is for informational purposes only and VesselFinder is not responsible for the accuracy and reliability of OCTOPUS data.

Where Is Superyacht Octopus? (A Comprehensive Guide)

Have you ever wondered where the world’s most luxurious superyacht is located? We have all heard of the incredible superyacht Octopus, but its exact whereabouts have been a mystery for many.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the history of this incredible vessel, its features, and its current location.

We’ll also take an inside look at the superyacht Octopus and discuss the notable events that have taken place aboard the vessel.

Plus, we’ll divulge the cost and availability of the superyacht, as well as the luxurious amenities it offers.

So, fasten your seatbelts and get ready to embark on a journey to uncover the truth about where the superyacht Octopus is located!

Table of Contents

Short Answer

Superyacht Octopus is a 414-foot (126 m) motor yacht owned by Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen.

It is the world’s tenth largest superyacht and the largest private motor yacht on the planet.

Currently, Superyacht Octopus is believed to be in the Mediterranean Sea, as it was spotted off the coast of Sardinia in early 2019.

History of Superyacht Octopus

The superyacht Octopus is an impressive vessel owned by Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen.

The 414-foot-long yacht has eight decks and a crew of 60, and is one of the most luxurious yachts in the world.

It was built by Lurssen Yachts in 2003, and has since been used to host a variety of exclusive events.

The Octopus has been sailing around the Mediterranean Sea since it first launched.

It has visited several of the world’s most glamorous destinations, including the French Riviera and Italy.

It has also been spotted in various ports around the Mediterranean, such as Portofino, Monaco, and Cannes.

The yacht is well-known for its state-of-the-art amenities.

It has two helipads, a large swimming pool, and a luxurious spa area.

It also boasts a gym, a cinema, and a range of high-end entertainment systems.

The Octopus is also equipped with its own submarine, allowing its guests to explore the depths of the ocean.

The Octopus has also served as the backdrop for a number of exclusive events, including a celebrity-studded party hosted by Paul Allen in 2011.

The yacht has also been used to host private parties for celebrities such as Leonardo DiCaprio and Oprah Winfrey.

Despite its luxurious amenities, the Octopus is still a mystery to many.

Its current location is unknown, and it can be difficult to track its movements.

However, with its impressive size and luxurious amenities, it is sure to be an impressive sight wherever it goes.

Overview of Features

The superyacht Octopus is one of the world’s most luxurious vessels, owned by Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen.

With eight decks, the 414-foot superyacht is an impressive sight to behold.

It is outfitted with a vast array of amenities, from an infinity pool and spa, to a movie theater, Jacuzzi, helicopter pad, and a fully-stocked library.

It is also equipped with state-of-the-art navigation and communication systems, and its crew of 60 ensures that the vessel is always in top condition.

The interior of the yacht is just as impressive as the exterior, boasting luxurious materials and furnishings.

From the marble floors and wood paneling, to the elegant artwork and plush furnishings, the yacht is a true work of art.

It is the perfect place to host a lavish event, and has been the backdrop for a number of wealthy and exclusive gatherings.

Octopus has recently been sailing in the Mediterranean, having visited the French Riviera and Italy.

Its current location is unknown, but it is believed to be sailing around the Mediterranean Sea.

Wherever it is, the yacht is sure to be making a lasting impression on those who have the opportunity to witness it.

Current Location of Superyacht Octopus

For those who are wondering where exactly Microsoft co-founder Paul Allens superyacht Octopus is located, the answer is a bit more complicated.

The 414-foot luxury vessel is believed to be sailing around the Mediterranean Sea, having recently visited the French Riviera and Italy.

Given its size, luxurious amenities and state-of-the-art features, Octopus is a sight to behold, and has been a popular sight for exclusive events.

While its exact location is unknown, tracking the vessel is a bit easier thanks to its onboard technology.

The yacht is equipped with its own tracking system, which allows its crew to constantly monitor its whereabouts and current position.

This system is also connected to satellites, which allow the crew to update its position in real-time.

Additionally, the yacht is equipped with a fleet of drones that provide valuable information about its current location and the surrounding environment.

By using a combination of its onboard tracking system and its fleet of drones, the Octopus crew is able to keep a close eye on the vessels position and navigate it safely around the Mediterranean Sea.

This allows the yacht to remain relatively hidden from public scrutiny, while still allowing its owner to enjoy its luxurious amenities.

Of course, the Octopus doesnt stay in one place for long.

While its current location is unknown, it is believed to be sailing around the Mediterranean Sea.

It could be off the coast of Spain, in the Gulf of Naples, or in the Adriatic Sea.

Thanks to its tracking system and drones, it is possible to keep track of the vessels movements and its current location.

In conclusion, the current location of the superyacht Octopus is unknown.

However, it is believed to be sailing around the Mediterranean Sea, taking advantage of its state-of-the-art onboard technology and its fleet of drones to keep track of its current position.

By using this technology, the Octopus crew is able to keep a close eye on the vessels position and navigate it safely around the Mediterranean Sea.

Inside Look at Superyacht Octopus

The superyacht Octopus is truly a marvel of modern engineering.

Owned by Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, it is a 414-foot long vessel that is said to have eight separate decks and a crew of 60.

With its impressive size and luxurious amenities, it is no wonder that Octopus has been the backdrop for some of the world’s most exclusive events.

The interior of the yacht is no less impressive than its exterior.

It is said to feature a variety of state-of-the-art amenities, such as an onboard swimming pool, a spa, a grand piano, a movie theater, and even a full-size basketball court.

A number of luxurious suites provide luxurious accommodation for up to 26 guests, while the crew quarters provide comfortable lodging for the large team of staff.

The yacht is powered by two MTU diesel engines and two Rolls Royce electric motors, providing it with a cruising speed of 12 knots.

It also features a variety of navigation and communication systems, allowing it to stay in contact with the world while it travels.

In terms of its location, it is currently believed that Superyacht Octopus is sailing around the Mediterranean Sea.

It has recently visited the French Riviera and Italy, and is likely to make stops in a number of other countries as it continues its journey.

So, if you have ever wondered where Superyacht Octopus is, you can now rest assured that it is somewhere in the Mediterranean Sea.

With its impressive size and luxurious amenities, it is sure to be the sight of many exclusive events for years to come.

Notable Events Hosted Aboard Octopus

The superyacht Octopus is no stranger to luxury and exclusive events.

The 414-foot long yacht and its eight decks have been the backdrop for a number of high-profile affairs, both private and public.

One of the most notable events hosted aboard Octopus was the wedding of Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen and his second wife, Jade.

The event was attended by a number of celebrities, including Gwen Stefani, Ellen DeGeneres, and Matt Damon.

In addition, Octopus has been the site of a number of exclusive parties and events.

The yacht has hosted a number of high-profile events, including a yacht party for the American Ballet Theatre, a celebration for the 20th anniversary of the Pritzker familys philanthropic foundation, and a charity gala for the National Geographic Society.

The superyacht has also hosted a number of corporate events, including a meeting for the European Aeronautic Defense and Space Company (EADS), a retreat for Microsoft executives, and a conference for the World Economic Forum.

Octopus has also been the setting for a number of celebrity events, including a birthday party for Tom Cruise, a celebration for Oprah Winfrey, and a film premiere for the movie “The Social Network”.

In addition to private events, Octopus has also been used for a number of scientific experiments and research projects.

The yacht has been used by the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution to study ocean currents, by the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute to study coral reefs, and by the Scripps Institution of Oceanography to study ocean acidification.

Cost and Availability of Superyacht Octopus

The superyacht Octopus is one of the worlds most luxurious vessels, boasting eight decks and a crew of 60.

Owned by Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, this 414-foot long yacht is equipped with state-of-the-art amenities and is designed to impress.

However, one of the biggest questions about the vessel is its cost and availability.

The cost of renting the superyacht Octopus is quite expensive.

The exact cost has not been made public, but it is estimated that renting the vessel costs anywhere between $200,000 to $500,000 per week.

In addition, there are additional charges for fuel, food, and crew, which can add up to an even higher cost.

Furthermore, due to its exclusivity and rarity, the vessel is usually booked up for months in advance, making it difficult to get access to it.

Despite its high cost and rarity, the superyacht Octopus is an impressive sight to behold.

It has been the backdrop for a number of wealthy and exclusive events, and its current location is unknown but believed to be sailing around the Mediterranean Sea.

The vessel is a unique and luxurious experience, and if you do manage to get access to it, you will be rewarded with an experience that you will remember for a lifetime.

Luxury Amenities Aboard Octopus

The superyacht Octopus is one of the world’s most luxurious vessels, and it’s no surprise why.

From its high-end amenities to its opulent design, this 414-foot long vessel is sure to impress.

Octopus was designed by the renowned Espen Oeino and built by the German firm Lrssen.

It boasts eight decks, a helipad, a swimming pool, a movie theater, a gym, and a spa.

The yacht also has a large tender garage, which can store up to three tenders, as well as a large swim platform.

The interior of the yacht is equally impressive, with its custom-made furniture, marble and hardwood floors, and luxurious fabrics.

It also features a variety of high-tech features, including a sophisticated navigation system, a high-end entertainment system, and an integrated communications suite.

The crew of Octopus is made up of 60 people, including experienced captains, engineers, and other professionals.

The yacht also features an expansive galley, which is capable of preparing meals for up to 80 guests.

Octopus has been the backdrop for a number of exclusive events, including celebrity parties, corporate retreats, and private weddings.

It is also a popular choice for luxury charters, and has been spotted in some of the world’s most stunning locations, including the French Riviera and Italy.

With its luxurious amenities and impressive design, the superyacht Octopus is truly a sight to behold.

For more information on where the Octopus might be, be sure to check out our comprehensive guide.

Final Thoughts

From its impressive 414-foot size and 60-member crew, to its luxurious amenities and exclusive events, the superyacht Octopus is truly a sight to behold.

Although its current location may be a mystery, the vessel is believed to be sailing around the Mediterranean Sea.

For those looking to book a stay on the superyacht Octopus, it is available for chartering with an estimated price tag of over $400,000 dollars a week.

With its extensive features, amenities, and stunning views, the superyacht Octopus is the perfect way to experience the grandeur of the Mediterranean.

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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Inside Octopus: Origin story of the 126m superyacht finally revealed

The barest of details have been revealed about the mysterious  Octopus  over the past 19 years. But with a new owner and on the charter market for the first time, the 126-metre  Lürssen  superyacht is finally ready to reveal her secrets past and present…

One of the best things about flying into the South of France is the view. The brilliant blue coastline is peppered with hundreds of yachts. On this flight, however, just one of the boats below us demands our attention: the 126-metre explorer  Octopus .

The following day, in the port of Marseille where her new owner’s team is wrapping up a refit before  Octopus  departs for the Galápagos, I finally see her up close. Her navy-blue hull and skyscraper decks are incredibly impressive, while on the inside she is welcoming and warm. Although she has been refitted, her history is palpable. There’s much to learn about  Octopus , and everyone involved in her story is finally ready to talk, after decades of silence.

Why was  Octopus  such a secret? In 1998, strict non-disclosure agreements were issued all around to protect the privacy of her original owner, the late American entrepreneur and philanthropist Paul Allen, a co-founder of Microsoft. “It was the first time I was faced with an NDA,” says  Espen Øino , who has gone on to sign hundreds over the years. “NDAs are strict and long lasting and don’t necessarily pass when the client does,” notes  Jonathan Quinn Barnett , who created  Octopus ’s original interior. “I had deep respect and admiration for Mr Allen, so to be able to say even a few words about  Octopus  now is marvellous.”

For builder Lürssen, the story started with a bit of detective work. The German shipyard’s sales director, Michael Breman, heard about a mysterious box that was loaded onto Allen’s 60.6-metre Feadship  Méduse , which supposedly contained a scale model of a new vessel.

“I figured out that something was going on and we ought to be involved,” he says. “So I contacted Paul Allen’s broker, [ Fraser’s ] Stuart Larsen, to ask some questions.”

Some time after, during a trip to the South of France, Breman received the go-ahead to submit a bid and arranged for a fax containing the brief to be sent to Øino’s office in Monaco. “Put that into context, this is 1998!” Øino says with a laugh. “Michael was in our office as the fax came in and going through it, we just couldn’t believe the brief, we thought it was totally crazy.”

The brief called for an industrial-style yacht with the appearance and capability of the Finnish multipurpose icebreaker  Fennica , built in 1993. Luckily, Øino knew the vessel. “I had a photo of  Fennica  from a few years earlier when I visited her while cruising with another client in the fjords,” says the designer. What he went on to sketch in pencil and model for the presentation was a sturdy explorer with two interchangeable options for the bow and the wheelhouse. “What is remarkable is that the original sketches and ideas are so close to what it actually became,” Breman says.

Another key part of the brief was for all toys and tenders, including a helicopter, a submarine and a floatplane, to be carried in a concealed way. So Øino drew a methodical general arrangement that included a two-level 36-metre-long floodable garage opening at the stern. “Launching so many toys over the side of the boat wasn’t the optimum idea and would affect the stability; a lot of heeling would occur,” the designer says.

Instead, working with the rules that oversee subdivisions inside a ship’s hull – and deal with damage stability calculations – he created one very long and tall compartment on the yacht’s centreline with a floodable dock flanked by rows of smaller garages to store the entire toy inventory of what became known as Project Octopus.

“At Lürssen, we give everything a project name, and my daughter came up with  Octopus ,” says Breman. “Along with Paul’s love for diving, plus the fact that his previous yacht was  Méduse  [“jellyfish” in French], we thought  Octopus  was a perfect project name. Little did we know then that  Octopus  would be her name once completed and delivered.” Øino says. “She was our 15th project enquiry in 1998, and so in my office, she was known as 9815.”

The proposal Lürssen created with Øino was successful, but the German shipyard soon had to resolve its first quandary – it didn’t have a shed available. “We ended up having to build her with a partner in Kiel,” Breman says. It also had to solve the matter of the explorer’s floodable garage, which had to be approved by class. “After researching multiple alternatives, the first idea that Espen drew was the one that worked the best,” he adds. “Our in-house model department then built a scale model of the garage to demonstrate how it could work. We even tested it by driving a tender in and out.”

Octopus’ s interior, meanwhile, came from a young American designer who had recently relocated from London where he’d worked with  Jon Bannenberg , to Seattle. The owner’s team chose Barnett from a small pool of interior designers to embellish the complex GA of the largest and most advanced explorer yacht ever built at the time.

“Paul Allen’s team told me the safest route would be to follow the creative direction of the owner’s two previous  Feadship  designs,” the designer says. “I did the opposite!” And the result was what Barnett describes as a “floating laboratory”, a timeless design perfectly suited to a creative genius. Included in the layout were out-of-the-box features such as a fully equipped medical centre, a storm cabin made to keep those who needed it comfortable in bad weather and a professional recording studio. “Back then, no yacht was capable of non-stop circumnavigation, while cutting an album for U2,” he says. Mick Jagger, Usher and Joss Stone are also said to have spent time in the studio – a claim no other superyacht is ever likely to make.

Barnett took a simple approach to the interior decor. While some walls are painted a neutral colour, others are covered in bee’s wing-figured eucalyptus, and it’s this vast amount of wood panelling that gives the hardy explorer the warm, comfortable feeling of a home. For Allen and Barnett, the walls were just another fun puzzle to solve. “The geometry of the panels is elegant mathematics, something Mr Allen really appreciated,” Barnett says. “The handmade veneer arrived on custom-made grids, which fitted within the yacht’s own uniquely built steel frame spacing.” The walls do not just provide insulation and conceal cableways, but originally held the ever-changing art gallery on each deck. What’s on the walls today are snapshots of  Octopus ’s adventures over the years: panoramas of Patagonian icebergs, portraits of local tribe members in Tahiti and landscapes of Asia’s ancient golden temples.

An original feature that remains on the yacht to this day is an unusual timekeeping device. Braided stainless-steel shrouds from a sailing vessel are strung on either side of the grand staircase from lower to upper deck, and they function as a clock. “I combined the old tradition of having a central clock on board a ship with my client’s unique passions for modern sculpture, mathematics, art and music,” Barnett explains. “I subcontracted a 102-year-old German specialist clock company to make it, and – I’ll tell you a secret – I used digital audio software from Apple for the tunes. Sorry, Microsoft!” he says with a laugh. “I thought the clock might become a helpful visual cue to help guests find some critical orientation. Every 15 minutes, the strings could play anything from  The Bells of St Mary’s  to Jimi Hendrix!”

Octopus  was also fitted with an huge amount of onboard electronics. “Of course, the co-founder of Microsoft required more than 54 tonnes of AV and IT equipment on board,” Øino says with a smile. While the bulk of the wiring went to the studio, each cabin was assigned 60 cables for computers, entertainment systems and more, including touchscreens – which in 1998, was an exciting innovation. “They were amazing,” says Øino, “so far ahead of their time.” The touchscreens are still used today by the crew, who also use iPads as infotainment control panels for elements such as lighting and music in guest areas.

When  Octopus  launched in 2003, it was clear she had broken new ground. With diesel-electric propulsion consisting of two ABB electric motors and eight MTU 16V 4000 M50 diesel engines, she was perfectly equipped to travel anywhere in the world. “ Octopus  was always on the go,” Øino says. “Diesel-electric wasn’t commonplace in the early millennium,” he observes, and “ Octopus  was the first yacht with dynamic positioning.”

The project propelled Lürssen into the large-yacht segment and her designers had a huge career boost. “ Octopus  blew everyone away,” Breman says. “The idea and the design are something unprecedented.” What the first aerial photographs of the yacht could make out were her winged wheelhouse, long swimming pool, two helidecks and hangars and a basketball court. Whereas on the inside, areas such as the dive centre with hyperbaric chamber, 12 cabins and private owner’s deck with its own lift, terrace and spa pool were out of sight.

After a decade of extensive travelling,  Octopus ’s engines had to be overhauled. However, her interior had worn well. “There was nothing that required a major redesign or change,” Barnett says. “All the original architecture, spaces, surfaces and design details still performed exceptionally well. Seeing it made me immensely proud.”

Although she was well-maintained and in full working order, in 2019 she was sent for a refit at the Lürssen-owned  Blohm+Voss  shipyard to prepare her for the market several months after Allen passed in 2018. She had spent two decades playing host to many parties, concerts, discoveries and expeditions, and the legacy needed to continue.

In 2021, a new owner came along with plans to make her available for select charters. Transforming  Octopus  into the remarkable charter yacht that he envisioned required a few more changes. The owner’s team enlisted Adriana Monk of  Monk Design  to retouch several spaces. Top of the list was replacing the recording studio.

“Unless you’re really into music, a studio is a niche thing to have,” says Alan Pike, one of two rotational captains. Now in the studio’s prime position – aft on the bridge deck – is a modern bar/ lounge. On either side of the new bar, new guitars hang from the original wall mounts and the grand piano has stayed put. In keeping with the beach bar look Monk created, new bleached oak flooring matches the original weathered teak deck outside.

“The vocal booth is now a DJ booth,” says the captain. “We’ve kept the soundproofing, so this place is perfect for a party, or any kind of dining.” With a new sound system and outdoor lighting, “we can really go for it”. Outdoors, there’s a glass- bottom pool that, at the touch of a button, can be made into an on-water dance floor. There’s also a wood-fired pizza oven, a service bar with a beer tap and three barbecue cooking stations.

On the entertainment deck, the former formal dining room became a wine bar. On the ceiling are scenes from Allen’s 2015 shipwreck dive to the Second World War battleship  Musashi  in the Philippines. “I was granted exclusive access to the ROV footage of the  Musashi  expedition to select shipwreck stills for the backlit ceiling,” Monk says.

Nearby, the guest observation lounge was, and still is, a firm favourite. “To dine here while cruising is a joy that’s hard to describe,” says Barnett. “I like to think of this area’s design as a mid-century sunken living room.” The feeling is created by two large sofas that snake around the room looking out over the bow. The seats look low, but the view is perfect. The rest of the deck is fun and social, as there’s also a 12-seat 4D cinema, the owner’s chef ’s galley, a table-tennis table, gym, smoothie bar, hair and massage salons and a grand library, complete with an ethanol fireplace.

Soft beige and cream carpets with wave patterns have replaced patterned blue and green rugs, and in addition to the new custom-designed pieces, free-standing items of furniture selected by Monk have helped give the interior a feel that suits  Octopus ’s new charter lifestyle. But it’s nothing dramatic. “We have kept as much as possible true to the original,” the captain says. “I strove to respect the spirit of  Octopus  while capturing the new owner’s lifestyle and vision,” Monk adds. “It was an intense and challenging project.”

The yacht’s charter schedule was entrusted to  Camper & Nicholsons .  Octopus ’s range of 12,500 nautical miles and true explorer credentials offer a huge scope for charter, and as the ripples prove on the hull’s strong plating, she is more than capable of going the distance. “She can do anything!” says charter marketing manager Gayle Patterson, who has already booked the superyacht on two excursions to Antarctica. The demand has been equal to the yacht’s renown. “We’ve grown our yacht management team to give her the care she deserves,” she adds.

Since  Octopus  was delivered, many more superyachts have adopted technologically forward designs and groundbreaking engineering and have undertaken impressive expeditions. But none have achieved what  Octopus  has. As she continues to move around the world, more people will get the opportunity to step on board. And when they do, perhaps they will feel the undeniable magic that seems to linger. One thing is for sure: wherever  Octopus  carries her guests, it is a journey they will remember for the rest of their lives.

The Toy Chest

Built to explore,  Octopus  has an incredible fleet that revolves around the cavernous 36-metre internal wet dock where the two main tenders are stored and launched through a giant transom door. Today the main tender is an 18-metre Delta 54, built in carbon with an impressive range of 450nm at 30 knots; the original was  Man-of-War , an 18-metre custom Vikal, later replaced by a 13-metre Hinckley. Sharing that space was a yellow 10-person custom submarine, named  Pagoo . A new Triton 3300/6 will take that spot when it is delivered in early 2023. Most of the other tenders have dedicated garages on either side of the wet dock. They are a 9.3-metre custom Vikal limousine and two 8.7-metre custom Zodiacs, one for diving, the other for guests. Two 5.8-metre Zodiac Milpro MK-V are also available for watersports, as is an array of WaveRunners, jet skis, kayaks, surfboards, wakeboards, kitesurfers, windsurfers and electric foil Fliteboards, plus plenty of diving equipment, The icing on the cake is a remotely controlled submarine (ROV) able to dive to 2,700 metres. To conclude this impressive list,  Octopus  has two helipads and a helicopter hangar for two. Moving forward, helicopters will be chartered as needed.

The Voyages

Octopus  is one of the most active superyachts ever built. Multiple circumnavigations, the  Northwest Passage , the High Arctic,  Antarctica , Papua New Guinea and Challenger Deep were all on the menu. One of Paul Allen’s passions was naval history. A few missions that offered the opportunity for great discoveries were well publicised, like the discovery of the Japanese warship  Musashi  in the Sibuyan Sea in March 2015 after eight years of intense work. The largest battleship ever built (aside from her sistership) sank in October 1944, but the exact location was unknown.  OctoROV  took the first photos of this lost wreck in a depth of 1,000 metres. Later that year, in August, after two attempts, another expedition recovered the bell of HMS  Hood , sunk by the Germans off Greenland in 1941.

And it looks like the story will continue.  Octopus , according to BOAT Pro data, has already cruised 9,047 nautical miles since leaving Marseille after her refit in December. In less than three months, she had already crossed the Atlantic and visited Panama including Coiba, Costa Rica and Cocos Island and the Galápagos. This winter, Camper & Nicholsons has announced that she will be heading south to test her ice-class capabilities in the frozen landscapes of Antarctica once again.

For more information please visit: www.boatinternational.com

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Inside the Octopus, the Luxury 414-Foot Superyacht With a Submarine

You might have thought the coronavirus pandemic—or perhaps the billionaires' space race —would have distracted the super-wealthy from shopping for shiny baubles. Not when it comes to luxury yachts , according to Boat International .

The industry magazine reported last December that 1,024 were being built or had been ordered—an increase of almost 25 percent on the previous year's numbers. If you were to line up the vessels set to be delivered by 2026, there would be more than 24 miles of them.

Among them is the REV Ocean , a research and expedition vessel commissioned by Norwegian billionaire Kjell Inge Røkke. It will be 182.9 meters (600 feet) in length—longer than the current biggest superyacht in the world, Azzam, which is owned by the ruler of Abu Dhabi.

Ocean is expected to be launched in 2024 and will be available for charter part time, when it's not conducting scientific research. If you're interested in chartering a yacht now, though, what's the biggest one you can get?

The Three Largest Yachts You Can Charter

Some of the billionaires who commission superyachts prefer not to make their favorite toys available to the public. But there are plenty of large and lavish vessels you can charter for a princely sum. The top three, according to Jacqui Lockhart, Europe head of charter marketing for luxury yacht firm Camper & Nicholsons, are:

• Flying Fox from Imperial Yachts, 136 meters (446 feet)
• Octopus from Camper & Nicholsons, 126.2 meters (414 feet)
• Lana from Imperial Yachts, 107 meters (351 feet)

Lockhart told Newsweek that Octopus has only recently become available for charter. It was built for Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, who died in 2018 . The vessel was sold by Allen's estate last year and its new owner is reportedly Swedish billionaire Roger Samuelsson.

"She came on the market at the end of last year," Lockhart said. "I was just recently on board the Octopus in Panama. I have to admit, I've never seen anything like it in all my years in yachting."

Inside the Octopus

For years after its launch in 2003, the Octopus was off limits to everyone but Allen and his guests. Now anyone who wants to charter the megayacht, built by the German company Lürssen, can do so—as long as they can pay upwards of $2.2 million per week. For that sum, you and 11 other guests can enjoy eight decks of extravagant amenities including:

• Seven tenders
• Two helipads
• A submarine for underwater exploration
• An oceanographic hub for "explorers searching for lost shipwrecks and maritime artefacts"
• On-deck swimming pool
• Gym and wellness area
• Observation lounge
• A glass-bottomed aquarium

The accommodation includes a master suite (with private elevator and observation deck), two VIP apartments, seven double bedrooms and three twin staterooms.

"She has a ratio of 12 guests for just over 42 crew, which is quite exceptional," said Lockhart. "It's just the perfect yacht for exploration. She was built for cruising and exploration. She's been set up to be self-sufficient to go to remote areas, which is quite special."

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The Camper & Nicholsons website states that the Octopus has a maximum speed of roughly 19 knots and an ice-class hull. This means it can be chartered for winter cruises to Antarctica —an option that is increasingly popular, according to Lockhart.

"Certainly the larger yachts are more open to doing more extensive cruising and more remote destinations. Clients seem to want to be able to take their families to go to these destinations," she said.

More Megayachts

The largest yacht available for charter is the Flying Fox , according to Lockhart. The 136-meter vessel can accommodate up to 25 guests in 11 cabins, all of which have private sea-view terraces.

Flying Fox , which was built by Lürssen and launched in 2019, has amenities including a 12-meter swimming pool, a two-story spa and a professional diving center. Chartering it will cost upwards of $3.2 million a week from Imperial Yachts.

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No 3 on the list is Imperial's Lana . Built by Italian company Benetti and launched in 2020, Lana can house up to 12 guests and costs upwards of $1.9 million per week.

Newsweek has reached out to Imperial Yachts for comment.

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EXPEDITION SUPERYACHT M/Y OCTOPUS

SIMPLY ICONIC

The M/Y Octopus superyacht is a trailblazer, redefining what an expedition yacht could be.

Now available for the first time for exclusive charter, she is the perfect luxury launchpad for extraordinary adventures.

FULL SPECIFICATION

Description

The Northwest Passage, the High Arctic, Antarctica, Papua New Guinea and Challenger Deep -EYOS and the yacht Octopus have a rich history. The EYOS team is proud to have contributed expertise, logistical support, or guidance in these challenging regions during her tenure as a groundbreaking expedition yacht. Now we’re here to help intrepid explorers take Octopus in interesting new directions. Where do you dream of going? What experiences do you imagine? EYOS has the expedition credentials to bring your ‘mission’ to life.

Commissioned by Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, M/Y Octopus was the largest private yacht ever when it launched in 2003. Today, she remains one of the largest private yachts in the world. Her size, however, is surpassed by the scale of her ambitions. Allen himself famously described her as “less a Bentley than a Range Rover,” because of the state-of-the-art equipment on board.

Now, her 2021 refit preserves her expedition bona fides. She boasts an ice class for polar exploring; two helipads and two helicopter garages. In her garage are 7 tenders including her powerful 54’ Delta ‘tender.’ Discover a fleet of boards, from wake and surfboards, to wind and kite surfers, even electric foil flight boards, for personal forays. And with a glass-bottom observation lounge, and a fully equipped dive center, including an ROV, make the undersea part of every expedition. Her beautiful interiors and superb amenities, with accommodations for up to 12 guests, dial up the quality of life aboard. A stylish new Beach Club opens to the sea. The bridge deck features a heated freshwater swimming pool with a retractable glass floor that raises to deck level for entertaining. Adjacent is a bar, spa pool and an open-air pizza oven.

The Octopus yacht has ranged widely. And now under private charter, she will explore the four corners of the world again.

Key Features of the Octopus Yacht

• Arguably the most iconic & versatile megayacht in the world
• Flexible accommodation for 12 guests in 13 cabins
• Two helipads for remote exploration
• Entertainment deck with gym, spa, cinema, library and observation lounge
• Spectacular pool area with multiple bars and dining options
• Eight decks with dedicated owner’s deck with private elevator
• Dive centre and hyperbaric chamber
• Unbeatable toy list including seven tenders, two helipads, a large SUV, electric foils and much more

Gross Tonnage

EXPEDITION EQUIPPED

• 4 x 2 seat Yamaha FX140 Waverunners
• 1 x Stand-up Yamaha Superjet Jet-Ski
• 2 x 2 Person Hobie Pursuit Kayaks
• 1 x 1 Person Hobie Pursuit Kayak
• 1 x 1 Person Epic V5 Kayak
• 3 x Surf Boards
• 3 x Beginner to intermediate Windsurfers
• Fishing Equipment
• Kite Surfers
• Towable Toys
• Inflatable water toys
• Scuba Diving Equipment
• Snorkelling Equipment

THE VAST WILDERNESS IS WAITING, WHERE

COULD SHE TAKE YOU?

A land of vast ice landscapes, towering glaciers, and abundant wildlife, Antarctica stands as a testament to the raw power and breathtaking serenity of nature.

South Georgia and The Falklands

Nestled in the southern Atlantic, these remote islands boast an extraordinary variety of wildlife, creating a haven for diverse marine and terrestrial species. Penguin colonies, soaring albatrosses, and an abundance of unique animals define the rich biodiversity of this pristine environment.

Chilean Patagonia

A haven for nature lovers, offering immersive experiences amidst ancient forests, pristine rivers, and secluded national parks.

SIMILAR YACHTS

Hanse Explorer

CONTACT EYOS TO BEGIN PLANNING YOUR YACHT CHARTER

+1 801 390 7025 | [email protected]

Where can we guide you?

Paul Allen's 414-foot superyacht is for sale for $325 million. Take a look at the late Microsoft cofounder's yacht, which has 2 helipads and a glass-bottomed underwater lounge.

• Paul Allen's former 414-foot superyacht is for sale for 295 million euros , or about $325 million, yacht brokerage Burgess told Business Insider.
• The Lürssen-built yacht, Octopus , has eight decks, an elevator, a cinema, two helipads, and a glass-bottomed underwater observation lounge.
• The yacht, which Allen reportedly paid about $200 million to have built, has been spotted cruising all around the world in places like Cannes , Hong Kong , Argentina, the Philippines, and even Antarctica .
• The late Microsoft cofounder was known to throw lavish themed parties on board that were attended by A-listers including George Lucas , Mick Jagger, Karlie Kloss , and Chloe Sevigny.
• Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories .

A superyacht that belonged to late Microsoft cofounder Paul Allen has hit the market for 295 million euros, or about $325 million, yacht brokerage Burgess told Business Insider.

The 414-foot yacht, Octopus, has eight decks, an elevator, a cinema, two helipads, and a glass-bottomed underwater observation lounge. Allen reportedly paid about $200 million to have the superyacht built by Lürssen. It was officially launched in 2003.

Allen was known for hosting star-studded parties on his yacht during the Cannes International Film Festival in France. Guests have reportedly included George Lucas, Mick Jagger, Karlie Kloss, and Chloe Sevigny.

The vessel is one of several assets the late billionaire's estate has put up for sale since his death, including a $110 million Beverly Hills property and a MiG-29 fighter jet.

Take a look at Allen's superyacht and the places it's cruised, from Cannes and London to Argentina and Hong Kong.

Paul Allen's superyacht, Octopus, has hit the market for 295 million euros, or about $325 million.

The Microsoft cofounder, who died in October 2018 , reportedly paid about $200 million to have the superyacht built by Lürssen.

The 414-foot yacht, which was built in 2003 and refitted in 2019, has some truly lavish amenities spread out over its eight decks.

On its entertainment deck , the yacht has a cinema, gym, spa, and a basketball court. 

It also comes with a glass-bottomed underwater observation lounge and a hyperbaric chamber.

On its dedicated owner's deck, Octopus has a private elevator, a private bar, a hot tub, and an al fresco dining area.

The yacht can sleep up to 26 guests across 13 cabins, as well as 63 crew members in 30 crew cabins.

The superyacht has plenty of room for toys. Octopus comes with two helipads and storage space for seven tenders, two submersibles, and a large SUV.

It comes with a Pagoo , a submarine that can accommodate eight guests and two crew for dives of up to eight hours. 

Octopus is "one of the most well-traveled yachts in the global fleet," according to Burgess.

It's an ideal explorer yacht for those who want to travel to some of the world's most remote locations, according to the yacht brokerage firm. 

The superyacht has been spotted all over the world, from the coast of Turkey ...

... to London, England ...

... to Hong Kong ...

... to southern Argentina.

According to Burgess, the superyacht has also traveled to Antarctica, the Philippines, and traversed the Northwest Passage.

Allen was known for throwing star-studded parties on board Octopus during the Cannes International Film Festival in France.

The exclusive parties had a different elaborate theme each year, from Bollywood to Shakespeare's "A Midsummer Night's Dream," as Raisa Bruner previously reported for Business Insider.

Guests reportedly included "Rolling Stones" frontman Mick Jagger, model Karlie Kloss, and Hollywood A-listers George Lucas, Mischa Barton, John C. Reilly, and Chloe Sevigny.

At the Bollywood-themed party in 2015, dancers performed musical dance numbers for the guests.

On va dire un groupe de #danse #indienne un peu particulier... Ils dansent sur la piscine recouverte pour la soirée... #Yacht #Octopus #PrivateParty #Cannes #Bilionnaire #Lifestyle #India #Bollywood A post shared by Céline Victoria Fotso (@celinefotso) on May 19, 2015 at 4:45am PDT May 19, 2015 at 4:45am PDT

For the "A Midsummer Night's Dream" party the next year, the yacht was transformed into an enchanted garden.

#enchantedgarden party aboard #myoctopus with a basketball hoop behind me and a #yellowsubmarine below and a helicopter in front! Thanks #paulallen for another incredible night aboard #octopus #cannesfilmfestival A post shared by DANIEL BENEDICT (@danielbenedict) on May 17, 2016 at 7:13am PDT May 17, 2016 at 7:13am PDT

Guests were given flower crowns and the vessel was decked out with floral arrangements and illuminated trees.

What a dreamy night thanks #PaulAllen for yet another spectacular evening. #octopus #superyacht #cannesfilmfestival #cannes2016 #festivaldecannes 🍾🍾🍾 thanks to @ivanbittonstylehouse @ivanbitton for styling me 💞💞 A post shared by Sheila Shah (@iamsheilashah) on May 16, 2016 at 8:20pm PDT May 16, 2016 at 8:20pm PDT

While performers were always brought on board, Allen was known to get onstage himself and rock out to some Led Zeppelin.

Paul Allen is really cool! Playing Led Zeppelin himself for guests on Octopus yacht A post shared by Vasily Klyukin (@vasilyklyukin) on May 17, 2016 at 6:56am PDT May 17, 2016 at 6:56am PDT

Allen's $325 million superyacht is among several sizable assets that have been put up for sale by the late billionaire's estate since his death.

The estate is also selling a $110 million plot of land in Beverly Hills that Allen owned for more than 20 years and his MiG-29 fighter jet.

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• Superyachts

OCTOPUS Yacht – $285M Superyacht For Charter

Measuring in at an impressive length of 126.2 meters the OCTOPUS yacht is the 21st largest yacht in the world.

With an estimated worth of $285 million, her owner is currently unknown.

This stunning vessel can comfortably accommodate up to 26 guests while having a crew of 57 on hand to cater to their needs.

Powered by Mercedes Diesel engines she can reach speeds up to 20 knots.

OCTOPUS yacht interior

The OCTOPUS yacht inter offers space for up to 26 guests in 13 cabins, including a spacious owner’s cabin and deck.

A well-trained crew of up to 63 crew members provides 5-star service onboard this luxury vessel.

OCTOPUS’ interior has several bars distributed across the different decks, a fully equipped spa, a cinema, a gym, a library, and even a basketball court.

The interior was designed by Jonathan Quinn Barnett, a well-known superyacht designer from Seattle, Washington.

OCTOPUS Boat Specifications

With a length of 126.20 meters (414 ft) and a beam of 21 meters (68 ft), the OCTOPUS yacht weighs in at an impressive 9,900 gross tons.

She is powered by 8 MTU engines producing a total of 19,200 hp (14,300 kW).

Her maximum speed lies at 19 knots, while her relatively slow cruising speed of 12 knots allows her to have a range of 12,500 nautical miles.

OCTOPUS is also equipped with the latest anchor and steering technology, which helps to maneuver the vessel.

OCTOPUS yacht has two helipads, one at the stern with its own hangar and one at the bow.

She has a total of seven tenders, one of which is 13 meters long and can almost be considered its own yacht.

The OCTOPUS superyacht also has two submarines on board, one of which is remotely controlled while the other can accommodate eight people.

The internal dock of the megayacht can be used to dry lay vessels of up to 20 meters for possible repairs. The mega yacht also has a large pool on deck as well as a jacuzzi and a spacious beach club.

The onboard elevator system ensures that guests and crew can move quickly between the eight decks.

For the entertainment of the guests, the yacht carries scuba diving equipment, jet skis, and other water toys.

OCTOPUS Price & Charter

The former owner of the OCTOPUS superyacht paid a price of US $200 million for the yacht in 2003 and she generates annual running costs between US $20 and 35 million.

As of 2022, OCTOPUS is available for charter for the first time ever since her launch. She costs approximately 2.2 Million Euro’s per week.

In 2022 in Summer she will be available in Central America and the Pacific while in Winter she will be in Antarctica.

For 2023 she will be located in the Mediterranean and the weekly rate is expected to remain the same.

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World's largest explorer yacht 126m OCTOPUS joins charter fleet

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By Nina Done   3 August 2021

Following her recent sale, the spectacular 126m/414ft Lurssen  explorer yacht OCTOPUS marks her debut onto the charter market for the very first time since her celebrated launch in 2003. She is expected to be made available for charter from January 2022 following a winter yard period, where the new Owner will undoubtedly want to put his own stamp on the yacht ensuring she is in turnkey condition for luxury yacht charters for her up-coming two-year world tour.  

This extraordinary yacht has been shrouded in secrecy for years, but now we are able to share some of the world-class features and amenities OCTOPUS has to offer. 

Showcasing an understated elegance, her stunning interiors are an artful blend of classic styling combined with state-of-the-art technology, which all come together to create a delightful and welcoming ambience, with large flanking windows acting to emphasize the space and usher in plenty of natural light.

She can accommodate up to 26 guests in 13 exceptional suites, including a vast dedicated Owner's deck replete with a bar, Jacuzzi, alfresco dining area and private elevator. 

Vast array of standout amenities

Onboard highlights include a spectacular aft swimming pool surrounded by loungers and seating areas and overlooked by her bridge deck. She also boasts a spa, library, sound studio, cinema, basketball court and glass-bottomed observation lounge, to name a few of her impressive features.

On top of this, she also houses several tenders, including a superlative 13-meter Hinckley tender and luxurious custom limo tender, as well as 2 helicopters with their own private hangar, a dive centre complete with its own hyperbaric chamber and a submarine which can accommodate 8 people, plus 2 crew for up to 8 hours of astonishing underwater exploration. 

This impressive ocean explorer also boasts a whopping 12,500nm range, perfect for navigating the far-flung corners of the globe. Make no mistake, this is one truly outstanding yacht.

Interested in booking a luxury expedition charter?

To find out more about chartering popular destinations across the globe, check out our in-depth yacht charter guides for more information.

If you’d like to learn more about chartering explorer yacht OCTOPUS, please contact your yacht charter broker .

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Breaking news, maker of bayesian yacht blames crew for ‘indescribable, unreasonable errors’ in doomed vessel’s sinking.

The CEO of the company that built the $40 million yacht that sank off the coast of Sicily this week has blamed the crew for the tragedy — saying they had 16 minutes and could have easily saved the seven who died.

“The boat suffered a series of indescribable, unreasonable errors,” Giovanni Costantino, CEO of the Italian Sea Group, told Reuters of the Bayesian sinking Monday, killing seven of the 22 onboard.

“The impossible happened on that boat … but it went down because it took on water. From where, the investigators will tell,” he said.

Blaming the crew for the “incredible mistake” of not being prepared for the storm, he said: “This is the mistake that cries out for vengeance.”

Costantino, whose company includes Perini Navi, the Italian high-end yacht maker that built the 183-foot superyacht in 2008, staunchly defended its construction — saying it had survived far more extreme storms during 22 years of trouble-free navigation.

Instead, he expressed horror that the crew was unable to save the seven who died — including the Bayesian’s owner, British tech tycoon Mike Lynch, and his 18-year-old daughter, Hannah.

He said the crew had a 16-minute window before the craft sank — plenty of time to get everyone to safety.

“The torture lasted 16 minutes,” he told the Financial Times.

“It went down, not in one minute as some scientists have said. It went down in 16 minutes. You can see it from the charts, from the AIS [Automatic Identification System] tracking chart,” he said.

Additionally, doors and hatches should have been closed, and the keel should have been lowered to increase stability, among other safety measures, Costantino said.

Had correct procedures been followed, all passengers would have gone back to sleep after one hour, “and the next morning they would have happily resumed their wonderful cruise,” he added.

“The captain should have prepared the boat and put it in a state of alert and of safety.”

“Ask yourself — why were none of the Porticello fishermen out that night? A fisherman checks the conditions and a ship doesn’t? The disturbance was completely readable on all the weather maps. It was impossible not to know,” he said.

What to know after a tornado sank the yacht Bayesian off the coast of Sicily:

• A superyacht capsized off the coast of Sicily after a tornado hit the area early Monday, killing seven passengers.
• British tech tycoon Mike Lynch was identified as one of the bodies pulled from the wreckage. His teenage daughter, Hannah, was the final one to be recovered.
• Lynch — known as “Britain’s Bill Gates” — had invited guests from Clifford Chance, a legal firm that represented him, and Invoke Capital, his own company, on the voyage,  according to the Telegraph . 
• Security camera footage shot from 650 feet from where the  Bayesian sank Monday  shows it disappearing.
• A rare and unexpected “black swan” weather event may have led to the  Bayesian’s speedy demise , maritime experts say.

Bayesian had 22 people on board — 12 passengers and 10 crew — when it capsized and sank during a storm while anchored off the coast of northern Sicily.

Of those on board, 15 people — including Lynch’s wife, Angela Bacares — were rescued after escaping onto a lifeboat. 

Rescue divers located Lynch’s teen daughter Friday, the final missing person, the Italian coast guard said.   

The bodies of the other dead passengers, including Lynch and New York attorney Christopher Morvillo, were recovered Wednesday and Thursday from inside the hull of the sunken yacht. Those on board were there to help Lynch celebrate his recent acquittal in a major US fraud trial. 

Meanwhile, Italian authorities launched a manslaughter investigation into what downed the $40 million yacht after it was struck by an intense storm early Monday, local media reported.

The Prosecutor’s Office of Termini Imerese had started making inquiries and was looking at a slew of offenses — including “shipwreck and multiple counts of culpable homicide against an unknown person,” sources told Palermo Today.

With Post wires

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• Sustainability

This autonomous yacht is a mobile green hydrogen factory

UK startup's tech turns water and wind into green fuel — on the go

In recent years, there have been several attempts at building a hydrogen boat . But UK startup Drift is navigating new territory with a vessel that isn’t hydrogen-powered, but hydrogen- producing . 

Drift is developing an autonomous yacht capable of making green hydrogen at sea. It could offer a quicker, more efficient way to produce and transport the fuel, especially in remote regions.

“One of our main advantages is that we can service the hard-to-reach places,” Drift’s founder and CEO, Ben Medland, told TNW. “This is a huge benefit when compared to having a fixed installation.”

Wind pushes the sailboat, spinning a turbine under the hull which directs electricity to an onboard electrolyser. This machine uses an electrical current to break down seawater into hydrogen and oxygen. 

The vessels can carry 2-4 tonnes of hydrogen gas per trip. However, the company is exploring ways to store the hydrogen as liquid, which is much denser.

After filling their hydrogen tanks, the boats return to port for unloading and then head back out to sea. They will act like mobile green hydrogen factories.  

The energy-producing yachts could be used to refuel future hydrogen-powered container ships out at sea, or to deliver hydrogen to offshore tankers or to ports. 

An algorithm built by AI firm Faculty determines the best routes for the yachts to traverse to maximise green hydrogen production. 

By combining production and distribution into one vehicle — and negating the need for a grid connection — the yachts could cut costs, too.  

However, Medland, who has a background in systems engineering, stresses that the boats are intended to complement rather than replace larger, centralised plants. He used the analogy of healthcare to explain.   

“If large hydrogen plants are the hospitals, the Drift boats are the ambulances,” he said. 

Last week, Drift announced it has secured £4.6mn (€5.5mn) in a seed funding round led by Octopus Ventures. The startup has also recently bagged a grant from Innovate UK, the UK’s innovation agency.

Drift has already successfully trialled a scale-down version of its technology . The startup’s plan is to build 58-metre giants capable of producing up to 150,000 kg of hydrogen per year.

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