is the streets of monaco yacht real

A Closer Look at the $400 Million Superyacht Streets of Monaco

The country of Monaco has long been an isle of luxury and extreme pleasure. It’s a premier destination for vacationers who prefer to take their holidays in grand style, and for the very rich and famous with a penchant for gambling, entertainment, and a hearty nightlife. A fair share of the jet-setting crowd enjoy spending at least a portion of their holidays on the streets of Monaco and one billionaire was so inspired that he ordered the commission of a superyacht to capture the opulence and extravagance of the locale in a recreation that is named for the country in the famed $400 million Streets of Monaco. To fully appreciate the splendor of this floating paradise, we take a closer look at this artistic and expensive rendition.

History of the superyacht Streets of Monaco

In 2015, the Streets of Monaco superyacht was just a concept. When news of its commission was revealed they were assumed to be rumors of wishful thinking, much like a fantasy that seemed unlikely to ever be realized. For a couple of years, there was the talk of a bold concept that would create a replica of many of the most famous landmarks found in the country of Monaco, captured on a large floating vessel, intended for the enjoyment of billionaires fond of locales such as the Hotel de Paris, La Rascasse, the Monte Carlo Casino, Cafe de Paris, Loews Hotel, and others. It was further rumored that the superyacht would cost an astronomical $1.1 billion to construct, but this, was an unsubstantiated rumor because when the ship was finally completed, much to the surprise of yachting enthusiasts who saw it as a pipe dream, the actual cost would be closer to $400 million.

Who’s commissioning the Streets of Monaco?

To lend credence to the rumors, we did a fair amount of research and learned that this yacht doesn’t actually exist, well, not yet anyway. The Island Design yacht company of the United Kingdom presented the blueprint for the yacht back in 2011. The design team from Island Design remarked that this vessel would be more like a floating city than it would a yacht. The billionaire backing the building of the Streets of Monaco is none other than Russian magnate Roman Abramovich, owner of The Eclipse yacht, according to this article .

The proposed specifications and amenities

Construction of the Streets of Monaco? couldn’t confirm one way or another if it has begun but we do have information about the proposed specifications and at least some of the amenities. The ship is designed to be 500 feet in length with a replica of the streets found in Monaco with miniature replications of popular landmarks n Monaco including the Hotel de Paris, tennis courts and swimming pools. The Atrium will link the main living areas together including a network of seven guest suites with individual bedrooms, balconies, dressing rooms, bathrooms, and reception areas. The capacity of the ship will be 70 crew members for daily maintenance and operation and 16 guests. In addition, there will be a tunnel complex extending around the deck for the Monaco Grand Prix go-kart track. The plans also include an area for storing smaller yachts for VIP travel to and from the main ship.

The Streets of Monaco will also feature several casinos on board along with luxury resorts if you can picture this on board a yacht. Jacuzzi bars, a cinema, libraries, helipads, a submarine, underwater restaurants, and waterfalls are also included in the plans. There will also be recreations of a beach-inspired pool, cafe bars, barbecue facilities and interior opulence the likes of which this world has not yet seen, according to LuxeHabitat. There is also slated to be a basketball court, a dance hall, a full spa and hair salon and this is just what is known about the initial plans.

Will the fantasy ever be brought to life?

There has been a lot of speculation over the past eight years about the credibility of this design and as to whether or not it is even feasible. The Island Design company who currently holds the blueprints believe wholeheartedly that it is possible. The only element that is missing is a billionaire that is willing to commission the construction. There have been no concrete announcements about whether or not Abramovich has signed off on the construction, and according to the director of Yacht Island Design, Scott, Poxon, this requirement has yet to be satisfied.

Final thoughts

The Streets of Monaco is a lovely dream which one day may become a reality, but as of now, it’s locked away in the minds of the designers in a set of blueprints waiting for someone to step up to the plate with the necessary funding to commission the building of this $400 million dream yacht. One thing is for certain, it would be the biggest and most expensive yacht on the ocean, but it could possibly be considered a floating city, given the amenities and onboard operations which would give it the full functionality of a city floating on the ocean. Resorts, hotels, casinos, restaurants, a Grand Prix in a miniature version, transportation via submarine, helicopter or yacht, and we’re assuming that the communications technology would also be quite advanced. It’s nice to dream but this is one dream that could possibly become a reality in the near future.

Dana has extensive professional writing experience including technical and report writing, informational articles, persuasive articles, contrast and comparison, grant applications, and advertisement. She also enjoys creative writing, content writing on nearly any topic (particularly business and lifestyle), because as a lifelong learner, she loves to do research and possess a high skill level in this area. Her academic degrees include AA social Sci/BA English/MEd Adult Ed & Community & Human Resource Development and ABD in PhD studies in Indust & Org Psychology.

A Closer Look at Steven Spielberg’s Yacht Seven Seas

Few names in Hollywood can compare to Steven Spielberg. The mention of this award-winning filmmaker’s name alone brings about memories of some of the industry’s best movies including Jaws, Indiana Jones, Schindler’s List, Lincoln, Ready…

A Closer Look at Riva Yachts New Bahamas Convertible

Ferretti Group’s various shipyard have debuted many stunning yachts during the company’s history. Itama, Pershing, Mochi Craft, and Allied Marine are all brands under the Ferretti Group’s name, as is Riva. Recently Riva, a leading…

The 10 Finest Gulet Yachts on the Market Today

The gulet yacht originated in Bodrum and quickly spread through the Turkish Riviera. Today, the gulet yacht is extremely popular. These beautiful yachts are the best option to meet your long-term sailing needs. They are…

Three Yacht Builders Who Can Help You Cruise the World

It’s a dream of many people nearing retirement to spend their golden years cruising the coastlines and going on adventures to new ports. The freedom of the open water offers a vacation for the mind…

The Top Five Dominator Yacht Designs

Dominator Yachts are some of the most lavish and impeccably designed vessels on the planet. In July 2001, Dominator launched its first yacht, and just 15 years later the company is a force to be…

Sirena’s New Fully Customizable 78-Foot Yacht

The Turkish boatyard Sirena is officially introducing its new yacht at the Cannes Yacht Festival in September 2022. However, they could not wait until then to show off their new vessel and have been giving…

Filed under:

A Look at Streets of Monaco, the World's Most Absurd Yacht

The world of megayachts is hardly known for its subtlety, but this proposed floating city makes even Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich's 557-foot Eclipse look downright sensible. Modeled after the glamorous Mediterranean city-state of Monaco, the Streets of Monaco features exhaustive replicas of landmarks like the Monte Carlo Casino, the Hotel de Paris, La Rascasse, and even a beach-like swimming pool. Estimated to cost of more than $1B to construct, this floating mini-city is the brainchild of the Yacht Island Design, an as-yet-untested firm fond of attention-grabbing designs that don't make it past the design stage. Still, plenty of thought has gone into this extravagant farce.

? The plans, while well publicized, don't appear to be very exact (above), just vague sections on each deck of the none-too-streamlined ship. That might be because, with the way things are going in yacht design lately, the designs might very well be obsolete before this billion-dollar extravagance is finally constructed.

· Yacht Island Design [official site] · Outrageous, Opulent Yacht Interiors For Filthy-Rich Boaters [Curbed National]

Share this story

155m SWATH ‘The Streets of Monaco’ superyacht by Yacht Island Design

Inspiration

Related News

Popular news this week, popular news this month, latest news.

Yacht Charter & Superyacht News >

Written by Chelsea Smith

Introducing a new era in luxury yachting, the themed yacht.

Yacht Island Design has been formed by a creative team who are driven by a passion to deliver something different. That difference is themed yachts, the first of which is called The Streets of Monaco superyacht design. The art of producing a themed yacht is to seamlessly weave a story into every element of the design and is achieved via extensive consultation with the client during the initial phases of the design process. This focus allows the creation of a truly unique environment from the overall exterior shape down to the smallest interior detail. Yacht Island Design’s attention to detail is shown in the first proposal, a 155m SWATH vessel that takes the principality of Monaco to the ocean.

155m SWATH ‘The Streets of Monaco’ superyacht by Yacht Island Design Exterior render and zoning diagram

Yacht Island Design has selected the SWATH platform as its prime focus. Not only does this platform offer the best seakeeping ability but the exceptionally wide beam for its length gives the maximum flexibility to achieve best utilisation of space. It also allows for the exploration of bold and daring design ideas without the restrictions of a conventional hull shape. Yacht Island Design are in collaboration with BMT Nigel Gee on several SWATH proposals. As the world’s leading independent provider of naval architecture and engineering to the large yacht industry they bring significant experience in the naval architecture of SWATH vessels.

In order to showcase its capabilities, Yacht Island Design has set about developing several concept proposals. The first of these is ‘The Streets of Monaco’. This is a 155m SWATH yacht built predominantly in steel with the use of aluminium in the upper superstructure. With a maximum speed of 15 knots she transports her 70 crew and 16 guests using diesel electric propulsion. The design theme called for a unique yacht that reflected the style and sophistication of the principality and centres around three main communal areas, ‘The Streets of Monaco’, ‘The Oasis’ and ‘The Grand Atrium’.

‘The Streets of Monaco’ is the focal point of our story and the anchor for the themes that run throughout the yacht, revolving around a recreation of the famous Monao Grand Prix race circuit. This fully functional kart circuit sets the stage for other famous locations seen on a lap of the principality. The Casino, Hotel de Paris, Cafe de Paris, La Rascasse, and of course the famous Loews hotel and tunnel complex are all featured and house many of the major interior communal spaces. There are four major areas to the external deck space. On the upper deck is ‘Casino Square’ featuring a large glass bottomed fountain situated in a tranquil garden setting. Heading past the Casino you arrive on the roof of the ‘Loews hotel’ which extends to the bow. This area features a small swimming pool, large Spa Pool and expansive sun decks with BBQ facilities. Moving aft we arrive at the main swimming pool which represents the Port Hercule harbour with a maximum depth of 3m incorporating a swim-in Spa Pool/bar. Continuing to the stern we pass into an area focussed on sports. The multi-use court can be configured to a variety of activities including tennis and basketball. Completing this floating city is the Prince’s Palace which as you would expect, houses the owners private apartment in a prime location on the port bow.

155m SWATH ‘The Streets of Monaco’ superyacht by Yacht Island Design The Oasis render

`The Oasis’, on the The Streets of Monaco superyacht design located aft, acts as the main boarding point for the yacht, an expansive area modelled on the gardens just outside the Monaco Casino. On entering the Oasis, attention is immediately drawn to the central waterfall feature consisting of upper level pools cascading down into the lower pool and Spa Pool. Radiating from the pool are numerous shrub lined pathways and secluded seating areas. Large exterior windows surround the entire aft section of the oasis, extending to the full double deck height ceiling allowing natural light to flood the space. Located forward on the lower level is the Spa, with manicure and hair salon, private massage suites, sauna/steam rooms and a large relaxation lounge featuring a spa pool with bar. To either side of the spa entrance are located grand marble staircases and elevator access to the mezzanine, with a cafe bar and magnificent views of the gardens below. Forward of the Cafe Bar are large porthole windows offering unique under water views into the main external swimming pool. Opposite this feature lies access to the fully equipped Gym which boasts uninterrupted views over the ocean. Nestled between the feature portholes and the Gym is an art lined hallway which acts as the entranceway to `The Grand Atrium’.

155m SWATH ‘The Streets of Monaco’ superyacht by Yacht Island Design Owners Apartment - Living Room

`The Grand Atrium’ is the central hub of the yacht, linking the upper and lower living areas. At its centre is a large, ornate spiral staircase which surrounds a waterfall feature that is supplied by the glass bottomed fountain from the garden area above. A small cafe/bar area ensures this feature can be enjoyed while relaxing in comfort. The seven guest suites are located off of the lower atrium level and vary in size, from the more modest 135 m2 suite to the grand 356 m2 VIP suites. All include their own reception room, bathroom, dressing room, bedroom and balcony. The VIP suites have the added luxury of a private office. On the same level and located centrally to the guest suites are the Library, Communal Office, Communal Balcony and Cinema. The upper level of the Atrium leads to the main entertainment areas and the Owners suite. The entertainment areas comprise the Main Saloon with separate Havana room and adjoining wine cellar, the Dining Room, Casino and Dance Hall. At the farthest end of the Atrium lies the Owners Apartment. Connected to all decks via a private lift and spread over 3 floors, it covers a total 1460m2 of floor space. As well as the usual lounge with a feature fire place and double height ceiling, office, bedroom, bathroom, his/hers dressing rooms, the apartment also benefits from a listening room, private courtyard, sunroom, numerous balconies and private sundeck with a Spa Pool/swimming pool.

‘The Streets of Monaco’ superyacht by Yacht Island Design VIP Suite

Other Key features

Two large tender garages to store all manner of launches, offshore power boats, jet skis etc. Dive dock and Submarine, deployed from one of the submerged hulls. Multi configurable sports court sized to championship tennis regulations also doubles as a Heli-Pad. Ample crew quarters including a gym and private sun terrace. Crew can access all areas of the yacht via a network of corridors allowing for maximum guest privacy. Sea level ‘Beach’ decks situated aft in both struts.

What’s next for Yacht Island Design?

Yacht Island Design’s second proposal is an 85m yacht based around a ‘Pacific Island’ theme, a notable departure from the architectural feel of the ‘Monaco’ design with a flowing organic shape and natural themed features. This concept illustration is a small teaser of what is to follow.

85m yacht with a ‘Pacific Island’ theme, by Yacht Island Design

Please contact CharterWorld - the luxury yacht charter specialist - for more on superyacht news item "155m SWATH ‘The Streets of Monaco’ superyacht by Yacht Island Design".

Charity & Fund Raising
CharterWorld News
Classic Yachts
Coronavirus
Cruise Ship
Ecological Yachts
Expedition Yachts
Expert Broker Advice
Feature Superyachts
Interior Design
Legal & VAT Yacht Issues
Luxury Catamarans
Luxury Gulet
Luxury Phinisi
Luxury Trimarans
Luxury Yacht Design
Luxury Yachts
Marinas & Harbours
Marine Ecology
Marine Electronics
Marine Equipment
Mega Yachts
Modern Yachts
Motor Yachts
New Launch Yachts
New To Charter
Open Style Sports Yachts
Private Jets
Sailing Yachts
Social Media
Sports Yachts
Superyacht Crew
Superyacht Photographers
Superyacht Products & Supplies
Superyacht Refits
Superyacht Reviews
Superyachts
Uncategorized
Yacht Builders
Yacht Charter
Yacht Charter Destinations
Yacht Charter Picks
Yacht Charter Specials
Yacht Delivered to Owner
Yacht Designers
Yacht Events & Boat Shows
Yacht Fashion
Yacht Industry News
Yacht Photos
Yacht Racing
Yacht Racing & Regattas
Yacht Safety Equipment
Yacht Support Vessels
Yacht Tenders
Yacht Videos
Yachting Associations
Yachting Awards
Yachting Business
Yachts For Charter
Yachts For Sale

Quick Enquiry

Superyacht news:.

Email Your Yachting News to: news @ charterworld.com

The Mediterranean

90m ‘Tropical Island Paradise’ superyacht by Yacht Island Design

Sunreef Yachts to be present at Kuwait Yacht Show 2014

Successful US premiere of motor yacht Arcadia 85 US Edition (hull #8) by Arcadia Yachts

International expansion of luxury yacht builder Sunreef Yachts

Motor yacht GALILEO in the Maldives until October 9th offering 10% off remaining weeks

2024 MONACO YACHT SHOW: Only two weeks to go before the superyachts dock at Port Hercule

Charter special offer on board 43m luxury yacht SUNRISE

Superyacht Charters: A luxury alternative to celebrating Christmas and New Year at home

Yacht Charter Etiquette: Essential advise for a seamless travel experience

Luxury motor yacht SIDURI III for charter in the Western Mediterranean

Charter special offer on board 43m luxury yacht SUNRISE

10 sensational superyachts with spectacular swimming pools

A luxury charter yacht is the perfect way to encounter New England’s fall foliage display

45m custom superyacht SAN will debut at the 2024 Monaco Yacht Show

Inaugural CROYA Charter Show announced for 4th to 6th October 2024 in Split, Croatia

31m luxury yacht CARPE DIEM available for charter in the Bahamas

Charter yachts offering citizen science opportunities around the world

55m superyacht YN20555 is launched by Heesen Yachts and named superyacht SERENA

Late summer special offer on board 72m superyacht ARBEMA in the Western Mediterranean

Yacht Island Design Unveils 'Streets of Monaco' Project

Yacht Island Design has released plans for a £244 million gargantuan yacht that replicates the streets of Monaco. Christened 'The Streets Of Monaco', the super ship mimics the key landmarks of the wealthy city-state, including the famous Hotel de Paris, Prince's Palace, Loews Hotel, Port Hercule and La Rascasse. It also boasts a go kart race track that replicates the famous Grand Prix track, as well as a helipad, mini submarine, speedboats, jet skis, swimming pools and Jacuzzis.

Rob McPherson, one of the founders of the project, said: 'The theme is based around the Mediterranean principality with the primary focus being the famous grand prix circuit. 'The idea was to recreate the circuit as a fully-functional kart track able to accommodate three karts side-by-side to allow for plenty of overtaking. By sizing the track in this way it has driven the overall dimensions of the yacht and the placement of the famous landmarks.

The Streets of Monaco. The yacht that could revolutionize luxury yachting

The Streets of Monaco

The yacht that could revolutionize luxury yachting

“ The Streets of Monaco “, the eccentric yacht would be the closest thing to the idea of a floating luxury hotel. A surprisingly flashy and expensive prototype, “ The Streets of Monaco ,” a $ 965 million titan

The project designed by Yacht Island Design is still a prototype, but if possible it would be one of the most impressive inventions of pleasure in contemporary history.

As its name suggests, The Streets of Monaco is based on the popular European town characterized by its luxurious casinos and prestigious hotels. Due to the intimidating size of her, the structure of the yacht is swath type, similar to that of cargo ships.

As for the size of it, the yacht would be 155 meters in length, which would fit 16 people in the main living areas and another 70 corresponding to the crew. Also, the maximum speed of it would be 15 knots or 28 km / h.

Due to the magnitude of it, the Streets of Monaco would enter numerous leisure areas such as bars, swimming pools, tennis courts and even a heliport in case you have to abandon ship in an emergency. In addition, the spa, gym, hairdresser and beauty salon will allow you to achieve the maximum possible relaxation.

But that’s not all, as it would also include a restaurant, a library, a large movie theater with the latest in audiovisual technology, a solarium, a wine cellar, and up to seven guest rooms, including a 356-square-meter VIP room.

The design of this luxurious and eccentric yacht designed exclusively for magnates includes a central department of 1,460 square meters distributed on three floors capable of connecting to all decks by means of a private elevator. This home would be for the owner or guests

The price of it, if the development takes place, could reach a little more than USD 965 million.

Most Popular

Live youth america’s cup, ineos britannia secures place in the louis vuitton cup final, nyyc american magic: excellence, determination and passion, “true spirit” in netflix – jessica watson’s history..., limited edition mumm grand cordon for the america’s cup, brits in imoca.

Email newsletter
MY MOODBOARD

Streets of Monaco yacht features urban replica of Monaco

Image tools
Email image
Previous Page

UK-based design company Yacht Island Design has proposed a new innovative superyacht named Streets of Monaco, inspired by a small section of the Principality of Monaco.

The new 155m Streets of Monaco yacht has been designed by Yacht Island Design, in association with UK-based naval architectural firm BMT Nigel Gee. Currently in the design stage, it is conceived as a floating island featuring its own fully functional go kart circuit. The entire design is a unique recreation of a small section of the Principality of Monaco.

The themed yacht comes complete with casino and race track. The four-deck yacht will feature innumerable amenities such as a main swimming pool with swim-in Jacuzzi/bar and the Casino Square in the upper deck; multi-purpose courtyard, which also doubles as a helipad; open sundecks and BBQ facilities aboard the yacht; and other communal areas named ‘The Oasis’ and ‘The Grand Atrium.’

The Oasis, the main boarding point that features a central waterfall, has been designed by seeking inspiration from the gardens outside the Monaco Casino. The lower level of ‘Streets of Monaco’ houses a spa with manicure and hair salon, sauna/steam rooms, a relaxation lounge with a spa pool and a bar, and a gym and café bar with underwater views.

The Grand Atrium is designed to link the upper and lower living areas of the yacht. Seven guest suites, library, communal office, communal balcony and cinema are housed in the lower level atrium. The upper atrium leads to the entertainment area and the owner’s suite. The atrium is also equipped with seven guest suites with their own reception room, bathroom, dressing room, bedroom and balcony.

!{Model.Description}

!{Model.Body}

The TRELLIS collection

Bar & Leisure Focus Project: L’Île Mystérieuse

Bar & Leisure Focus Project: Kali Mexican Coffee Roasters

Related projects.

SLC Dormy Care Communities

SLC Crystal Cruises

Tarkett helps London Waste and Recycling Board close the loop

Discover content from our architecture and design magazines

Email Newsletter

Subscribe to our free weekly email newsletter

Login or Create account

Forgotten password

Automobiles
Watches & Jewelry
Art & Collectibles
Wine & Spirits
Destinations
Resorts & Spas
Jetset’s Top 5
Real Estate
Cover Features
Entertainment

2024 NBAA Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE)
Love at First Sight
The Fine Art of Carchitecture
Investing in Fine Wines

Mega Yachts: Streets of Monaco

For the super-rich it would combine the delights of Monaco with untrammelled access to the ports of the world – as well as bragging rights as to owning the world’s most expensive personal yacht.

British designers have produced plans for a floating replica of the principality named Streets Of Monaco which features scaled-down versions of its famous landmarks including the Monte Carlo racetrack.

The 500ft-long boat – expected to cost up to £700million – also boasts miniatures of the famed Monte Carlo Casino, Hotel de Paris, Cafe de Paris, La Rascasse, the Loews Hotel as well as swimming pools and tennis courts.

It even has a platform that holds smaller yachts in case prospective owners need something a little nippier to get around in.

The most mind-bending feature is the Monaco Grand Prix-inspired go-kart track complete with tunnel complex which runs around the deck.

The ship is the brainchild of fledgling Derbyshire-based Yacht Island Design.

Company director Rob McPherson said: ‘The design theme called for a unique yacht that reflected the style and sophistication of the principality.

‘We want to create a truly unique environment that could take the principality of Monaco to the ocean.’

But for the designers the centerpiece of the incredible ship is The Atrium, which links the upper and lower living areas.

The Atrium has seven guest suites which all include their own reception room, bathroom, dressing room, bedroom and balcony.

In total, Streets of Monaco’ would be capable of housing 16 guests and 70 crew and would cost the owner tens of millions to run each year.

And the billionaire owner would get the benefit of the main apartment which is spread over three floors, sprawling an amazing 4,800sq ft – the size of a luxury penthouse.

The four-deck yacht will also have BBQ facilities dotted around the deck as well as a mini waterfall and cafe bar with underwater views.

While only at a design stage, The Streets Of Monaco would likely exceed the £665 million price-tag rumored to be paid by Roman Abramovich for his ‘Eclipse’ yacht to become the world’s most expensive personal boat.

At 500ft, The Streets of Monaco is 25ft shorter than the Chelsea owner’s super-yacht but Abramovich would undoubtedly be envious of the Monaco’s fully functional kart circuit.

Now that the design has been completed, the only question remaining for Yacht Island Design is whether they can find a billionaire with enough spare change to turn it into a reality.

THE PRINCESS PASSPORT
Email Newsletter
Yacht Walkthroughs
Destinations
Electronics
Boating Safety
Ultimate Boating Giveaway

The New Concept in Luxury Yachting: The Themed Yacht

By Christopher White
Updated: May 10, 2011

If you think that a Carnival Cruise Lines ship is a floating city, just wait until you see this. The creative team at Yacht Island Design has put forth its first proposal: the Principality of Monaco, a SWATH design will provide the beam and sea keeping ability needed to keep this nautical municipality afloat.

Multiple decks contain pools, spas, waterfalls, tennis courts, a lavish private master suite (located in the Prince’s Palace on the port bow) and accommodations for 16 guests and — brace yourself — 70 crew that the company estimates it will take to keep Monaco cruising along at 15 knots. The focal point of the design is “The Streets of Monaco,” which will feature re-creations of the Monaco Grand Prix race circuit (complete with go-carts for racing), the Hotel de Paris, the Casino, Café de Paris and the Lowes Hotel.

www.yachtislanddesign.com

More: Yachting News Headlines , Yachts
More Yachts

Project 821: The World’s First Hydrogen-Powered Superyacht

Austin Parker Launches Two New Yacht Series

Customize Your Ride: The Argos Nautic GT14 RIB Tender

Alia Yachts to Debut SAN Superyacht in Monaco

World Traveler: Westport 112 Raised Pilothouse For Sale

Newport Boat Show Announces New-Product Winners

A Standout New Brand

Digital Edition
Customer Service
Privacy Policy
Terms of Use
Email Newsletters
Cruising World
Sailing World
Salt Water Sportsman
Sport Fishing
Wakeboarding

MORE SECTIONS

Dear Deidre

Inside £1bn superyacht ‘Streets of Monaco’ – with replica Grand Prix track, casino & tennis court

Josie Klein
Published : 15:12, 17 Feb 2022
Updated : 12:32, 9 Mar 2022

YOU could be forgiven for thinking a city's streets must stay firmly on the ground.

But a £1bn superyacht is throwing that idea out the window with a replica Monaco Grand Prix track on its deck.

The Streets of Monaco is a £1bn superyacht which is being designed to be a floating replica of the city

The Streets of Monaco is a luxury yacht inspired by the lavish city that, while still in the design phase, will feature everything you'd expect from a visit to the French city-state, including casinos and swimming pools.

Designed by Yacht Island Design , the superyacht is centred around its replica of the famous Grand Prix circuit which will be a functioning go-kart track where guests can race against each other.

The 152m yacht will have a special owner's apartment and seven guest suites and can sleep up to 16 guests and 70 crew.

The suites are all on the lower level of the central atrium and each have their own reception room, bathroom, dressing room, bedroom and balcony - with the VIP suites also featuring a private office.

Also in the atrium is the owner's apartment which is spread over three floors. In addition to all the features in the guest suites, the owner's apartment also has a private courtyard, sunroom and private sundeck with a jacuzzi and swimming pool.

The main boarding point of the yacht is The Oasis - a double-height foyer modelled on the gardens just outside the Monaco Casino.

Most read in News Travel

Scottish town with one-of-a-kind water attraction that's like a theme park ride

UK's best theme parks named with record-breaking rollercoasters & revamped rides

I'm a flight attendant - this is the dangerous mistake I see passengers making

Spain tempts Brits for winter sun breaks from just £15 a night

Living up to its name, The Oasis features multi-level pools which cascade from one to another, a jacuzzi and seating among plants, to give guests a peaceful place to relax while onboard.

Additionally, the yacht includes a helicopter pad, tennis court, spa, gym, manicure and hair salon, sauna and steam rooms, private massage suites, cinema and library.

A spokesperson for the design company said: "The theme is based around the Mediterranean principality with the primary focus being the famous grand prix circuit.

"The idea was to recreate the circuit as a fully functional kart track, able to accommodate three karts side by side to allow for plenty of overtaking.

"By sizing the track in this way it has driven the overall dimensions of the yacht and the placement of the famous landmarks.

"The Monaco story extends beyond this exterior architecture and into the interior spaces giving a seamless transition as guests move between the various areas of the yacht."

See inside the 10 biggest superyachts in the world - with saunas, beach clubs and helipads onboard.

Check out a mind-blowing s uperyacht with its own waterfall and pool aquarium.

An incredible 'flying' superyacht with helipad and huge pool has been revealed in new designs.

The seven guest suites each have their own reception room, bathroom, dressing room, bedroom and balcony

Home » Celebrities » Blog » The Streets of Monaco: Inside the Billion-Dollar Yacht

The Streets of Monaco: Inside the Billion-Dollar Yacht

The yacht Streets of Monaco is a stunning vessel that was designed to emulate the glamorous atmosphere of the famous city-state in the south of France. It was first conceived in 2011 by the yacht designers at Yacht Island Design , and its construction was completed by the Dutch shipyard, Icon Yachts, in 2015. The yacht is a true marvel of modern engineering and design, and its finances are equally impressive.

The Streets of Monaco is an enormous yacht, measuring 500 feet in length and featuring a gross tonnage of 16,000. Its exterior design is meant to resemble a floating replica of Monaco, complete with famous landmarks like the Monte Carlo Casino, Hotel de Paris, and La Rascasse. The yacht also includes a helipad, a multi-level pool, multiple Jacuzzis, and a variety of luxurious guest suites and amenities.

But what about the finances of this impressive vessel? The Streets of Monaco reportedly cost around $1 billion to build, making it one of the most expensive yachts in the world. The owner of the yacht has not been publicly disclosed, but it is believed to be owned by a billionaire businessman or member of a royal family.

The operating costs of the yacht are also substantial, with estimates ranging from $25 million to $30 million per year. This includes crew salaries, maintenance, fuel, insurance, and other expenses. The yacht is staffed by a team of over 70 crew members, including experienced chefs, engineers, and hospitality professionals.

Despite its high costs, the Streets of Monaco is often chartered out for private events and luxury vacations. The yacht can accommodate up to 16 guests in its eight spacious suites, each of which is decorated in a unique style inspired by different areas of Monaco. It also includes a large indoor cinema, a gym, a spa, and a variety of water sports equipment.

Overall, the yacht Streets of Monaco is a true masterpiece of design and engineering, with impressive finances to match. While it may not be accessible to the average person, it is a symbol of the luxury and extravagance that can be achieved with enough wealth and creativity.

click here , to see the full list of the most expensive yachts on earth

Hajime Isayama Books Titans: Exploring the Impact of his Iconic Manga

Frank Miller’s Batman: Revolutionizing the Dark Knight with Grit and Iconic Storytelling

Frank Miller’s Sin City: Exploring the Dark and Gritty World of Basin City

Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands: Navigating the Challenges of Modern Monarchy

Albert II of Belgium: A Sovereign’s Journey through Turbulent Times

Inside the World’s Most Expensive Yacht: The Luxurious Features of Eclipse

Exploring the Finances of the $400 Million Yacht Named Dubai

You may also like:, moungi bawendi: illuminating the world of quantum dotsd of quantum dots.

Moungi Bawendi: Illuminating the World of Quantum Dots

Alexey L. Pajitnov – The Father of Tetris

Sam altman: pioneering the future with openai’s gpt, agit kabayel – the german boxing sensation.

MORE SECTIONS

Social Casino

Inside £1bn superyacht ‘Streets of Monaco’ – with replica Grand Prix track, casino & tennis court

Josie Klein
Published : 10:12 ET, Feb 17 2022
Updated : 7:33 ET, Mar 9 2022

YOU could be forgiven for thinking a city's streets must stay firmly on the ground.

But a £1bn superyacht is throwing that idea out the window with a replica Monaco Grand Prix track on its deck.

Designed by Yacht Island Design , the superyacht is centred around its replica of the famous Grand Prix circuit which will be a functioning go-kart track where guests can race against each other.

The 152m yacht will have a special owner's apartment and seven guest suites and can sleep up to 16 guests and 70 crew.

The suites are all on the lower level of the central atrium and each have their own reception room, bathroom, dressing room, bedroom and balcony - with the VIP suites also featuring a private office.

The main boarding point of the yacht is The Oasis - a double-height foyer modelled on the gardens just outside the Monaco Casino.

Most read in Travel

I'm a flight attendant - this is the dangerous mistake I see passengers making

Unknown airport rules causing headache for passengers with delayed flights

Why you should book flights on Friday the 13th - even if you’re superstitious

Quaint village named among America's best Fall towns with radiant foliage

Living up to its name, The Oasis features multi-level pools which cascade from one to another, a jacuzzi and seating among plants, to give guests a peaceful place to relax while onboard.

Additionally, the yacht includes a helicopter pad, tennis court, spa, gym, manicure and hair salon, sauna and steam rooms, private massage suites, cinema and library.

A spokesperson for the design company said: "The theme is based around the Mediterranean principality with the primary focus being the famous grand prix circuit.

"The idea was to recreate the circuit as a fully functional kart track, able to accommodate three karts side by side to allow for plenty of overtaking.

"By sizing the track in this way it has driven the overall dimensions of the yacht and the placement of the famous landmarks.

"The Monaco story extends beyond this exterior architecture and into the interior spaces giving a seamless transition as guests move between the various areas of the yacht."

See inside the 10 biggest superyachts in the world - with saunas, beach clubs and helipads onboard.

Check out a mind-blowing superyacht with its own waterfall and pool aquarium.

An incredible 'flying' superyacht with helipad and huge pool has been revealed in new designs.

Monaco Grand Prix

Our 4 Hotels
Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo
Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo
Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort
Monte-Carlo Beach
Our Diamond Suites
Our Packages & Offers

The best luxury yachts in the world
Inspiration

Published on September 08, 2023 Updated on September 04, 2024

The world’s most impressive yachts often drop anchor in the waters of Monaco, making Port Hercules, port of call or home port to many luxury boats, a major attraction. True floating second homes, these vessels have amazing features. Taller, longer, faster: which luxury boats are the most impressive? See the images of ten marvels of navigation and on-board leisure to find out.

The most famous contemporary megayacht: the Eclipse
The Lady Moura, a megayacht pioneer

The largest private yacht: the Azzam

The Dubai, a megayacht for the homebody
The Al Saïd, the most music-loving of yachts
The largest megayacht: the Dilbar

The Al Mirqab, an ocean-coloured yacht

A yacht that loves the wind: the a, the black pearl, the eco-designed superyacht.

A yacht to clean the sea: the Rev Ocean
Koru, the unusual yacht for an unusual owner

A yacht project too good to be true: the Streets of Monaco

The History Supreme: an endlessly floating hoax

The yacht, from competition to luxury

Towards a new kind of yacht, the most famous of modern megayachts: the eclipse.

During the 2010s, the Eclipse placed at or near the top of many luxury boat rankings. The largest yacht in the world when it was launched in 2009, measuring 162.5 metres from stern to bow, the vessel is the pride of manufacturer Blohm + Voss, a specialist in extraordinary custom-made vessels. Owned by Roman Abramovich, this beautiful white figure acts as a helicopter carrier (with two dedicated landing strips), floating residence (24 very high-class rooms) and coastal trade vessel. In the winter, the Eclipse makes its way to the island of Saint-Barthélemy and escorts the football magnate’s guests from the local airport to his villa.

Manufacturer: Blohm + Voss - Length: 162.5 m Estimated cost: €350 million to €900 million (according to appraisals)

Photos: Boat International

The Lady Moura, megayacht pioneer

Exemplar for today’s megayachts, the Lady Moura was, at its launch in 1990, a crown jewel of high-end shipbuilding. The ship has been traversing the world’s major marinas for 30 years. When it is not not setting sail around the Balearic Islands, it can often be found in Port Hercules, where it drops anchor for the summer. Sold in 2021, the vessel had undergone a high quality interior restoration in the 2010s.

Manufacturer: Blohm + Voss - Length: 105 m - Estimated cost: €213 million (in 1990)

Photo: Boat International

Emblematic event combining exclusivity, elegance and innovation, the Monaco Yacht Show has established itself as the must-attend international yachting event.

Yachts lovers, dive into a world of grandeur and excellence, and experience a total immersion in the yachting's world. Come and discover the finest collection of superyachts from September 27 to 30, 2023, in the Principality of Monaco.

The largest private yacht as of 2023 is cloaked in mystery: the Azzam, a white 180 metre-long superyacht capable of reaching a comfortable 32-knot cruising speed (60 km/h), is also the epitome of discreet, despite its size. Its owners, heirs to the royal family of the Emir of Abu Dhabi, have kept all details of the boat’s interior behind closed doors, except for its capacity to welcome 36 guests in its relaxing Empire atmosphere, created by French designer Christophe Leoni. Celebrating its tenth anniversary this year, the boat has an annual maintenance cost of $50 million.

Manufacturer: Lürssen - Length: 180 m - Estimated cost: €500 million

Photos: Lürssen Yachts

The Dubai, a homebody megayacht

At 162 metres long, the Dubai now ranks second place in the world’s largest luxury ships. Created by Blohm + Voss, it is a kind of floating annex to the Emir of Dubai’s palace, which keeps its precious ship in Emirati waters virtually year-round. Able to accommodate 120 cruise passengers, this sea giant has a dining room for 90 guests, a submarine, two speedboats for outings, not to mention a night club, a squash court and a cinema.

Manufacturer: Blohm + Voss - Length: 162 m - Estimated cost: €400 million

The Al Said, the best yacht for music lovers

The Gulf’s royal families are amongst the most keen buyers of luxury boats, as evidenced by the Al Said, the fourth longest yacht in the world, owned by the Sultan of Oman. Launched in 2008, the boat fancies itself a melomaniac’s paradise. In addition to its cabins, a heliport and a private pool, it boasts a dedicated concert hall, where 50 performers can take the stage.

Manufacturer: Lürssen - Length: 155 m - Estimated cost: €250 million

Photo: Lürssen Yachts

The heftiest megayacht: the Dilbar

A true star of yacht design, Andrew Winch made headlines in 2016 at the inauguration of Dilbar, one of the largest yachts in the world and his latest creation. Named after the mother of its first owner, Alisher Usmanov, the ship has some spectacular features; notably, its huge indoor pool, teak decks and two heliports.

Manufacturer: Lürssen - Length: 156 m - Estimated cost: €650 million

With its pretty navy blue hull overlooked by two white decks, the Al Mirqab is easy to spot each time it visits Port Hercules. Designed by Andrew Winch, the ship’s interior includes 10 suites, a cinema, a swimming pool, and more. Outside, bars and jacuzzis round out the luxurious facilities of this 133 metre-long boat that spends most of its cruising time in the Greek Cyclades.

Manufacturer: Peters Werft - Length: 133 m - Estimated cost: €250 million

Photo: Peter Werft

Designed by Philippe Starck, the A stands out from other megayachts, with a threemast sailing ship silhouette. While it is engine-propelled, of course, its sails provide this 143 metre-long sea giant with surplus speed and energy efficiency. Such enginesail hybrids are also a serious option for commercial navigation, and the A is a particularly luxurious “prototype”. Delivered to its owner in Port Hercules, Monaco in 2017, the yacht features a cosy atmosphere, and incorporates an underwater observation pod directly on its keel, among other luxury activities that can take place on board.

Manufacturer: Nobiskrug - Length: 143 m - Estimated cost: €500 million

Photos: Nobiskrug

Curved metal yardarms, three gigantic masts and propelled mostly by sail, the Black Pearl stands out as a “different” superyacht. A jewel of nautical technology, this exceptional ship relies on innovative machinery to cross the seas while consuming almost no fossil fuel, at the same time ensuring its fourteen passengers the most luxurious cruise.

Manufacturer: Oceanco - Length: 106 m - Estimated cost: €180 million

Photos: Oceanco Yacht

A yacht to clean the seas: the Rev Ocean

It is 182 metres long, belongs to a billionaire, and rises to the standards of today’s megayachts. But the Rev Ocean is not actually designed for entertaining its passengers. Upon its 2024 commissioning, this large, beautiful ship will have the mission of removing five tonnes of plastic from the oceans per day, all while carrying out anti-pollution scientific research in situ.

Manufacturer: VARD - Length: 182 m - Estimated cost: €400 million

The Koru, an extraordinary yacht with an extraordinary owner

With a name inspired by the Maori, the Koru gives pride of place to power: this threemaster propelled by engine and sail was so gigantic that its manufacturer initially planned to dismantle a bridge so that the ship could leave Rotterdam. Although this operation was ultimately unnecessary, the vessel now sails accompanied by a protective annex, the Abeona, which serves as an auxiliary heliport and escort to Jeff Bezos’ superyacht.

Manufacturer: Oceanco - Length: 127 m - Estimated cost: €450 million

Super- and megayachts are the stuff of dreams, which sometimes brings about media coverage of crazy projects, real buzz machines for the sensationalist press. The Streets of Monaco concept falls into this category. This study in style proposes recreating some of Monaco’s emblematic landmarks (the starting line of the Circuit, the Prince’s Palace, etc.) on a floating deck 150 metres in length. This is a true challenge that would require a billion-dollar investment, all for a result that could not possible measure up to the original: there is only one Monaco, and it is firmly anchored on land!

Photo: Jet Set Magazine

The History Supreme: a hoax still afloat

Often showcased in sensationalist articles, the History Supreme has caused quite the buzz in the media: a supposed megayacht project using a hundred tonnes of gold and platinum for interior decoration... In short, it is a fantasy worth hundreds of millions euros that is unlikely to come to fruition, despite articles that repeatedly cite the project as the most expensive yacht in the world.

Photo: Stuart Hughes

Yacht: Whether sail- or motor-powered, the yacht is a private leisure craft with a deck. It was originally a type of racing sailboat.

Superyacht: The term “superyacht” is usually used to refer to private vessels that are more than 30 metres long and have a crew year-round.

Megayacht: “Megayacht” is not an official regulatory category, but this term designates any private vessel more than 80 metres long that can accommodate at least 25 people in its crew.

In English, “yacht” initially described any boat not used for commercial or military purposes. The term referred to a pleasure boat, and then, from the 19th century, a competition sailboat, whose name could be found in boating clubs such as the Royal Thames Yacht Club, the New York Yacht Club or the Yacht Club of Monaco, a descendant of the “Regatta Society”. Yachts faced off in challenges that later became famous, such as the America’s Cup, named after the New York schooner that won in 1851. The meaning of the word then evolved with the advent of motoryachts, motorised pleasure craft that are now commonly known as simply “yachts”.

With its trade shows particularly Monaco Yacht Show and recent constructions, the luxury boat sector is regularly in the news. In the future, and as in all transport industries, its propulsion model should evolve towards engines that emit less CO2 and sulphur. This is why designers are currently turning to hydrogen engines, solar sails and traditional sails as serious alternatives to fossil fuel engines.

Dive into the events that bring the Principality to life throughout the year.

Discover our Agenda

You might also like…

Monte-carlo golf club : fauna and flaura on the green.

Monte-Carlo Golf Club is a corner of paradise where the sky meets the sea. It is home to some rare plant and animal species that have been recorded by the bird protection organisation LPO (Ligue de Protection des Oiseaux). The club has achieved the bronze level for its biodiversity.

The parks and gardens in Monaco: A green spirit in a city's body

Join us on a stroll through the parks and gardens of Monaco, a sustainable and resolutely green city!

Jardins des Boulingrins Place du Casino à Monaco

Top 10 most beautiful houses in the world

Take a stroll through the world's most beautiful homes and villas. Discover all their beauty, uniqueness and extravagance!

Share your experience with us

#mymontecarlo.

The world of Yachting

Our blog showcasing the finest high-end residential and investment properties in the world.

The Streets of Monaco by Yacht Island Design

The Streets of Monaco by Yacht Island Design is a 155-metre concept like no other. The design recreates a small section of the Principality of Monaco, home to the famous Formula One track and the Monaco Yacht Show. Basically, the superyacht acts as a floating island, harnessing the benefits that come from SWATH platforms, the main advantage being excellent stability. Yacht Island Design is described by Directors Rob McPherson and Scott Poxon as a team wishing to push design boundaries and create themed superyachts, with The Streets of Monaco being the first of two new concept designs. Teaming up with BMT Nigel Gee, Yacht Island Design has created a one-of-a-kind design that quite literally incorporates land-based architecture into the superstructure. SYD is sceptical of how buildable or seaworthy such a bizarre design would be, but the team is confident that such a project could be realized. Diesel-electric drives would power the steel and aluminium vessel, which is expected to achieve a top speed of 15 knots. Able to accommodate 16 guests and 70 crew, with the owner’s private apartment located in the Prince’s Palace on the port bow of the Upper deck, additional features include two large tender garages, sea level ‘beach’ decks, dive dock and a submarine, which can be deployed from one of the submerged hulls. Split into four major external deck spaces, the upper level includes the main swimming pool with swim-in Jacuzzi/bar and the Casino Square, featuring a large glass-bottomed fountain in a tranquil garden setting. A multi-purpose courtyard in the stern of the vessel allows for various sporting activities and doubles as a helipad. Expansive sun decks and BBQ facilities have also been incorporated into the design. The two remaining communal areas are the ‘The Oasis’ and ‘The Grand Atrium.’ The Oasis, modelled on the gardens outside the Monaco Casino, acts as the main boarding point and includes a central waterfall feature. Large exterior windows surround the entire aft section of The Oasis, extending to the full double-deck height ceiling. Forward on the lower level is the Spa with manicure and hair salon, sauna/steam rooms and a relaxation lounge featuring a spa pool with a bar. A gym and café bar are also found on this level with under-water views into the main external swimming pool. Finally, The Grand Atrium is the central hub of the yacht, linking the upper and lower living areas and surrounds a waterfall feature supplied by the glass-bottomed fountain from the garden above. Located off the lower atrium are seven guest suites, library, communal office, communal balcony and cinema. The upper level of The Atrium leads to the main entertainment area and the owner’s suite comprising the main salon with Havana room and adjoining wine cellar, casino, dining room and dance hall.

Picchio Boat by Christian Grande

Candy & Candy Penthouse in Monte Carlo

Conversion of a Church into residences in Utrecht, Netherlands

Catholic church is transformed into residence in Netherlands

Please fill in all fields marked with *.

Post sent to the provided e-mail address.

Every product is independently selected by editors. Things you buy through our links may earn Vox Media a commission.

What Life Might Look Like on the World’s Biggest Yacht

On a Tuesday morning in September, a six-foot-long plastic model of a boat sat on the second floor of the Explorers Club, looking a little like a beached Orca, sleek and out of place in the tweedy boardroom. The tiny yacht had traveled to East 70th Street from Los Angeles and, before that, made stops in Monaco and Zurich, Cannes, and West Palm Beach — a prop to entice buyers who can spend $10 million on a cabin in the world’s biggest yacht. If it gets made. The boat will be called the Ulyssia and it’s the passion project of Frank Binder, a billionaire from the Merck clan with a thing for boats (he once owned a shipyard in Monaco). Lenny Kravitz, his friend, is onboard to help design interiors. (“He’s a genius.”)

Binder has been doing a world tour to find other buyers — who might be hard to meet. Maintenance hovers around 3 percent a year, or $300,000 for that $10 million one-bedroom. It’s a big ask, especially for a boat that, if he does get recruits, won’t launch until 2028. To help, Binder brought on two former executives from the World , the luxury liner that was the first — and only — to prove rich people want to live … at sea, all year. (It launched in 2002, is still sold out, and has yet to snag on an iceberg or go bankrupt.)

Renato Chizzola , a senior vice-president for the Ulyssia who worked as the general manager of the World for five years, spoke to Curbed about the terrors of elephant seals and why he once hired Israeli snipers to come onboard.

This interview has been condensed and edited for clarity.

What did your job on the World look like??

I was in charge of lifestyle, expedition, everything — even the kitchen. You have a captain who’s the master of the vessel, and he ultimately will have the last word on safety, security, where we go, where we can’t go. But then you also need to have somebody who has grown up in a galley carrying luggage. I’m 60 in October. When I was 27, I said, “Okay, how can I see the world without having money?” So in 1993, I was hired on the Queen Elizabeth II , then went to hotels, cruises, and in 46 years I traveled to 186 countries. I was allowed to live onboard and basically extend any service, any dream that a resident had.

What’s the difference between this superyacht and the World ?

The World is now 23 years old. She was created in the late ’80s. She looks like a cruise ship. And the Ulyssia is a yacht — the designer says this is his masterpiece.

We never had many amenities on the World . Here, we have a deli. We have a library with a card and games room. We have a table-tennis room. We have two paddle-tennis courts all inside, a multipurpose sports deck up there where the helicopters are, two hangers, two submarines to go down to the ocean, seven restaurants.

Then, we have this inflatable marina off the back of the boat. Imagine we’re near Bermuda. It’s a beautiful day. The sea is calm. We stop and we inflate this — it takes an hour — and we have tenders. You can go diving right there off the ship. The sea is yours. This marina is something the World could never ever have done, because there’s no space in the boat to keep that. The World was more elderly, a bit elderly retired. This is way younger. Why? Because we have so many amenities and offer adventure. Here, we are offering fewer apartments with more space. The balconies are huge. Luxury, for them, means space, time and getting whatever they wish, whenever, wherever. Freedom.

Freedom , in a contained location —

Yes, and in a safe environment, completely protected against any danger. If a resident says, “I want to bring my family there, I want to be safe, I want to have no worries,” safety needs to be core to us. They want the freedom to do what they do at home — to run around with suits, jewelry. And if they are smart enough to say, “I want to go and see real scenarios, not luxury hotels,” they can go places where there’s no luxury and see how the world really works. That’s what this community wants.

Sounds like a security nightmare.

We will hire ex-Mossad physically, to be on the ship. On the World , we partnered with Marine Guard, one of the world’s best safety and security companies . It provides technical and physical support. And whenever we went to critical places — for example, when we went through the Gulf of Aden, I brought in Israeli snipers to come on the boat. Nobody, no pirate on earth can come in past them. Then on shore excursions, we have every form of security that you can imagine. Satellite images. Images underwater, over water. When we went to Antarctica, to the Northwest Passage — meeting with the Inuits, the Aborigines — you need people who know them. You need people who safeguard you. In the Antarctic, you are only allowed to go with Zodiacs to the beaches. You need people who know that, who know the sea lions, the penguins. We bring them onboard — 20 or 25 people who know everything about every area. And when we do expeditions, we bring on EYOS, one of the greatest expedition leaders in the world, which goes to places like the Titanic .

Is this, like the Titanic , experimental in any way?

No, there are similar yachts. But in four years, when she will hopefully leave port, she will be the greenest yacht of this size ever built. And at that time, we may build for whatever is available in terms of fuel, whether it’s methanol or nuclear. There are vessels already going nuclear, military vessels.

But isn’t this all risky?

It’s the opposite. You will see more and more environments like this at sea. Why? Because you can escape anything! If there’s an outbreak in New York, a big virus, you just won’t go there. If there’s a war there, you just don’t go there. If there’s a storm, you don’t go there.

So this will be a way for the global elite, basically, to pay to avoid any problem.

Is it going to be a one percent community? Yes, obviously, but they need to do good around the world, otherwise they cannot come to the community.

Imagine the following. We will have a medical center onboard. We have MRI machines. We have a dentistry. Our doctors, when we go to the west coast of Africa, to Senegal, we can have our doctors go out and help. And as we go around the world, we will help to map the ocean floor. We’ll have tools available to measure and send these to oceanic institutions that then take this data. So we are helping to make the world a better place. And that’s the legacy.

How are you going to gauge whether the people who want to live here also want to do good?

There’s a very tough background check before being allowed to buy. So can it be that a Colombian drug lord or a Russian weapons dealer comes and says, “Oh, I’m going to take ten?” No, that can’t happen. We’re not a community for people from mainland China who don’t speak English and want to spit around. Or aggressive Russians. We are not a community for sheikhs from any Arab countries. And I have nothing against the Chinese and Russians. I love everybody. I’ve been everywhere. But they just don’t fit here, and they won’t come. We want like-minded golf players, tennis players, joggers, bikers, F1 drivers.

We will have roughly 30 to 35 percent Europeans, 30 to 35 percent North Americans, including from Canada, possibly a few from Mexico City, a few from São Paulo. Then we have about 20 percent from Australia, South Africa, Singapore, Hong Kong, Japan. Then we expect to have about 10 percent of people from all over, we don’t know where. It could be anywhere.

They’ll need a certain amount of money to get into this boat and I assume, therefore, that you can’t be that picky.

No, we can’t. But we try to be. It’s a balance. We meet them three, four, five, six times. We invite them, show them something, then they say, “Oh, I trust these people. I believe in them.” It’s a slow process.

Can a buyer get kicked off?

Oh, absolutely.

What’s the justice system?

There’s a board that’s voted in and we have our chairman on the board. Almost all of the members are people who have either been on yachts, have their own yacht, or have led organizations.

If people have their own yachts, why would they sign up for this?

They might have a beautiful yacht of a hundred meters, but they can’t hire all these education guides, explorers all the time. We have 22 guest suites. Imagine we’re coming to Japan. Blossom season. We bring an ex Japanese prime minister onboard, maybe a three-star Michelin chef. We bring them on, let’s say, three weeks before. And they lecture. We can have experts speak about anything. Volcanoes, health and wellness, food and beverage, politics, archeology.

And they have you, who’s been to 186 countries.

Exactly. So when I do speak to people who want to buy and invite them for lunch or a coffee, they listen because they know, Oh, this guy has been there. You don’t need to tell them something that you think can happen. You can actually tell them a story. When I went to Antarctica the last time, in 2009, on the way back to the Zodiac, I am walking and these big elephant seals — those are the big guys, like three tons and ten feet long — and all of a sudden, out of nowhere, there’s a big sound like MWUGHOWUGH and a big one came up, out of the sand. I stood there frozen. These are moments when you think, Is this really happening to me? How fortunate, how lucky am I to be able to experience moments like this? And all the wealthy people say the same.

rich people
the global elite

Editor’s Picks

Most Popular

What is your email.

This email will be used to sign into all New York sites. By submitting your email, you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy and to receive email correspondence from us.

Sign In To Continue Reading

Create your free account.

Password must be at least 8 characters and contain:

Lower case letters (a-z)
Upper case letters (A-Z)
Numbers (0-9)
Special Characters (!@#$%^&*)

As part of your account, you’ll receive occasional updates and offers from New York , which you can opt out of anytime.

Today's news
Reviews and deals
Climate change
2024 election
Newsletters
Fall allergies
Health news
Mental health
Sexual health
Family health
So mini ways
Unapologetically
Buying guides

Entertainment

How to Watch
My watchlist
Stock market
Biden economy
Personal finance
Stocks: most active
Stocks: gainers
Stocks: losers
Trending tickers
World indices
US Treasury bonds
Top mutual funds
Highest open interest
Highest implied volatility
Currency converter
Basic materials
Communication services
Consumer cyclical
Consumer defensive
Financial services
Industrials
Real estate
Mutual funds
Credit cards
Balance transfer cards
Cash back cards
Rewards cards
Travel cards
Online checking
High-yield savings
Money market
Home equity loan
Personal loans
Student loans
Options pit
Fantasy football
Pro Pick 'Em
College Pick 'Em
Fantasy baseball
Fantasy hockey
Fantasy basketball
Download the app
Daily fantasy
Scores and schedules
GameChannel
World Baseball Classic
Premier League
CONCACAF League
Champions League
Motorsports
Horse racing

New on Yahoo

Privacy Dashboard

Sail Away: The Oral History of ‘Yacht Rock’

This story was originally published on June 26, 2015

I n the late 1970s and early 1980s, musical artists like Kenny Loggins, Michael McDonald, Steely Dan, Toto, Hall and Oates, and dozens of others regularly popped up on each other’s records, creating a golden era of smooth-music collaboration.

More from Rolling Stone

The Second Coming of Steely Dan

Michael McDonald on the Doobie Brothers Entering the Rock Hall: 'They Deserve the Nod'

Stormy Daniels Versus the World

And on June 26th, 2005, an internet phenomenon was born. In 12 short but memorable episodes — first via the the short-film series Channel 101 and then online — JD Ryznar, Hunter Stair, Dave Lyons, Lane Farnham and their friends redefined an era and coined a term for the sultry croonings of McDonald, Fagen, et al.: “yacht rock.”

As “Hollywood” Steve might say, these guys docked a fleet of remarkable hits. This is the story of Yacht Rock, told from stem to stern — a reimagining of a bygone soft-rock renaissance, courtesy of hipsters with fake mustaches, impeccable record collections and a love of smoothness. Long may it sail.

The Michigan Connection JD Ryznar (Director, “Michael McDonald”): I moved from Ann Arbor to L.A., and ended up making friends with all these other guys from Michigan, like “Hollywood” Steve Huey, Hunter Stair, and David Lyons. Pretty much every weekend I’d have “Chinese Thanksgiving” at my apartment — we’d eat BBQ chicken and burgers, drink beer and listen to records of what I called “yacht rock.” You know, like Michael McDonald is singing background vocals and like there’s guys on boats on the covers; it feels like you’re on a yacht listening to it. And the guys were like, oh, we know this music.

Dave Lyons (“Koko”): You know how, in the Seventies, these big bands started playing arena rock? We liked the idea of these smooth bands playing “Marina Rock.” I thought it was a better name.

“Hollywood” Steve Huey (“Hollywood Steve”): What I mostly remember is JD playing Journey records all the time. He was so into Journey that he had photocopied a photo of Steve Perry and pasted it onto his liquid soap dispenser. He wrote “Steve Perry Soap: Clean as all fuck” on it.

Lane Farnham (editor, “Jimmy Messina”): JD and I had talked about Journey for a year before we did Yacht Rock. In the third episode, that whole “you need to fly like a pilot” bit? Those are direct lines from Steve Perry in this crazy documentary we found. He’s coked to the gills, in the Eighties, just blabbering about who knows what. We got a kick out of that stuff.

Ryznar: My musical tastes are not that interesting, and they never were.

Huey: I turned 30 right before we started doing the series, and I thought, well, this is a nice round number. What do 30-year-olds do? I feel like it’s time I get into Steely Dan. I bought most of the catalogue and was like, This is my new identity. I’m gonna unwind, start listening to Steely Dan, and leave parties early.

Channel 101 Hunter Stair (“Kenny Loggins”): At the time, JD had helped me get a job at a production company, and he asked if I wanted to shoot this thing they were doing for something called Channel 101. I didn’t know anything about it, but I saw that it was started by Dan Harmon and Rob Schrab — who I knew because I had a copy of Heat Vision and Jack [the failed 1999 pilot they wrote that became a huge underground hit, directed by Ben Stiller and starring Jack Black ]. So I was super pumped.

Ryznar : It was a cool scene at the time: Justin Roiland had [Channel 101 series] House of Cosbys, Dan Harmon had Laser Fart. Our friends Drew Hancock and Wade Randolph, who would go on to play Hall and Oates, they had a show about a regular guy who got angry, and turned into a smaller, shirtless weaker guy who didn’t turn green or anything.

Drew Hancock (“Oates”): That was called “Man to Man: Metamorphosis Ultra.” It was the lowest stakes Incredible Hulk show you could possibly have.

Justin Roiland (co-creator of Rick & Morty and House of Cosbys, “Christopher Cross”): Every single month you’re making something, and then you’re testing it in front of a live audience. You see what works, what doesn’t work.

Ryznar : It was a January 2005 screening where we started the school of Channel 101, where you’re showing the stuff you made in front of 200, maybe 300 people. And then they put it on the “internet,” which was very hard to do back then. There was no “YouTube.” Listen to Old Man Ryznar here.

Farnham: JD and I would go down to the beach and play something called “smash ball” — there’s no rules to the game, so we’d just make them up. And he said, this is fucking hilarious, we should make a short film about this. So we got Hunter to direct SmashBoys — and it was funny.

Lyons: Two paddles and a ball that you hit back and forth on the beach. We turned it into a soap opera .

Stair : We started playing Kenny Loggins’ “Playing With the Boys” [from Top Gun ] on repeat as we drove a convertible around Playa del Rey. Just to get in the mood.

Ryznar : There were some Phil Collins music cues, I think. A lot of sports music from Eighties movies — “You’re the Best Around” and whatnot. We used a great Kenny Loggins song for the climax. It’s from Caddyshack II . . .

Stair : “Nobody’s Fool”! It ended up winning the Best Failed Pilot of that year; we lost by eight votes to the Lonely Island guys, who did “The ‘Bu.” They just stuck their middle fingers up at everybody and said, we didn’t make a show but we made a hilarious music video. That was the night I had the idea for Y acht Rock.

Christening the Ship Ryznar : Hunter and Dave Lyons came up with an idea for a show about a couple of jewel thieves who lived on a yacht and listened to that music.

Stair : That was actually called Steal Away.

Lyons: I believe Hunter and I were talking about a private eye detective team called Loggins & Loggins that lived on a houseboat and solved mysteries — like Simon & Simon.

Ryznar : I said: How about we play Kenny Loggins and Michael McDonald as they co-write “What a Fool Believes” together? We had Stevie Nicks in there originally, for some reason. And then Drew Hancock and Wade Randolph said, we want to be Hall and Oates. I had gotten into the H&O song “Portable Radio” pretty hard. I needed to introduce it to the world. That was very important to me.

Stair : The seed of Koko the manager is . . . there’s a Doobie Brothers album that has a sweet looking manager dude on it. I remember sitting there with JD and being like, look how awesome this guy is.

Ryznar : Dave Lyons invented the Koko character while out drinking with Hunter one night. He just put on a bunch of garbage Seventies clothes he had around the house, and had a little stupid whistle around his neck. All these little touches — that’s what Dave is so great at.

Lyons: No, [Dan Harmon] wasn’t an immediate fan. That’s because he doesn’t get music. Just listen to the theme song for Community — it’s terrible. Dan looks at things differently than most people, and I don’t think he loves music the way we do. But he came around. He came to really enjoy it. [Harmon would eventually play record producer Ted Templeman in two episodes.]

Ryznar : We thought maybe people would get it, maybe they won’t. But we submitted it. At the prime time panel, everybody but Dan Harmon like it. I think that because he’d never heard of the guys, he didn’t realize how much that music had meant to other people. People knew who everybody was. That’s why we put Hollywood Steve in there to say, hey, this is the deal. Hollywood Steve was a friend and an actual music critic. If you look up a lot of Nineties rap albums on All Music Guide, chances are Hollywood Steve wrote the review.

Huey: I was a published music writer, and that lent me a voice of authority that I might not have otherwise had amongst a hardcore group of music nerds. “Oh this guy’s viewpoint has to be legitimate! He’s published.”

Steve Agee (“Steve Porcaro”): Channel 101 at that point in time was really known for people making videos kind of purposely shitty. So we couldn’t tell if it was made to look bad on purpose.

Hancock: When Wade and I saw the first episode, we were like, eh, this isn’t very good. We didn’t like it. I didn’t understand it. So when it had this meteoric response, I was very surprised.

Ryznar : So Yacht Rock got screened, we were very nervous, and it went over like gangbusters. Just bona fide love from beginning to end from the audience. And we got voted number one on our first try, which hadn’t been done too often on Channel 101.

Stair : It got the biggest laugh of the night. As soon as it was over, we knew we were in. We weren’t totally sure it was going to be number one, but we knew we’d be up there.

Ryznar : A lot of people wanted parts. People had ideas. So we got to work with people we wanted to work with. Before we even knew we were picked up for a second episode, Hunter came up to me and said, “Uh, just talking to Doug Benson. I told him he could play Peter Cetera in the next episode.”

Lyons: The thing about the Channel 101 screenings, they’re always at a place that serves lots of alcohol. And after we saw how well it went over, we’re all drinking at the bar; Dan Harmon is doing a show with Sarah Silverman [ The Sarah Silverman Program ] at the time, and Doug was there with her. Yes, Hunter promised him the role of Peter Cetera. Which is great casting.

Episode Two: The Songwriting Contest In the second episode, Hall and Oates challenge Loggins and Messina to songwriting contest. It ends with the creation of some of the greatest smooth music ever.

Ryznar : I mean, imagine if you saw Hall and Oates where Oates, with all that hair and the mustache, was the top, and Hall was the bottom? They were sort of the opposite of the smooth California scene. So they sort of made the perfect antagonists.

Huey: The only reason they were picked as antagonists is because they’re from Philadelphia, which is a mean place.

Hancock: The wigs we got from our friend Willy, who just happened to have two of the most perfect wigs ever.

Wade Randolph (“Daryl Hall”): The Hall wig is named the De Carlo. I don’t know why.

Hancock: I remember for the mustache, I think I tried a regular handlebar mustache but it just wasn’t thick enough. So I just ended up taking a lock of the wig and fashioning a mustache out of that.

Stair : And Justin Roiland coming in, doing “Sailing.” The way the whole thing flowed, it’s so fast and perfect. I think that was Yacht Rock ‘s the finest hour.

Roiland: JD asked me, would you play Christopher Cross? I’d never heard “Sailing” before, believe it or not. I remember the first few listens going I don’t get the appeal of this fucking song. It’s an acquired taste.

Huey: We didn’t quite know what we had at that point, and so you kind of had to establish the value system. Smoothness is the main value in this world. The second episode, when that screened for the live audience, I’ve never seen a Channel 101 audience go that apeshit for anything. I remember walking out of the screening going, we’re rock stars! Granted, it’s only this one room, with like 300 people in it, but in that one room of 300 people, I think we might be rock stars.

Koko Makes His Final Voyage Lyons: As soon as we got in for the first one, JD called me and said here’s the idea for the second one: I’m gonna kill off Koko. Well, thanks a pantload, JD. He’s like, no it’ll be great. You’ll come back later as a ghost or something.

Stair : So JD wanted this guy Koko to have this totem at this fight; I suggested a trident, since it’s more nautical. But Anchorman had come out, and they had the fight scene with the trident. We still needed something, so we settled on a harpoon.

Lyons: In the second one, I’m supposed to get run through with my own harpoon. And Hunter showed up with a child’s little trident, taped to the handle of a barbecue fork. I was like Hunter, we can do better than this. So my roommates had a woodshop in the backyard; I went out there and drilled some holes, made some dowel rods, and wrapped the handle in rope. When I showed up with it, everyone said holy shit — you made a fucking harpoon, dude! It also split in the middle, so you could run it through someone. And that episode elevated Koko to this mythic level that nobody expected, least of all me.

Stair : You can’t kill Loggins. You can’t kill McDonald. These are real people. Koko had to die.

Lyons: My thought is that Koko fell on his own harpoon and martyred himself. I like to think that Koko was the Jesus Christ of Yacht Rock. [ Pause ] That’s going to sound arrogant. How about: Koko died to deliver smooth music to the rest of the musicians.

Huey: I don’t think it was ever decided who killed Koko until the very end. The important thing is, like Jesus, he died for a cause. Which, in this case, was smooth music. But you know what’s gonna happen if you’re in the middle of a melée with a bunch of guys from the mean streets of Philadelphia. You’re going to die of a harpoon injury. That’s why they call it the city of harpoon murders.

Randolph: I always assumed it was Oates.

Wyatt Cenac (“James Ingram”): Who killed Koko? You know, very good question. If I had to go with anybody… I’d say maybe Loggins and McDonald together. That’s the secret twist. I think they’d been slowly poisoning him for years, and the harpoon was just to throw people of their scent.

Ryznar : I don’t know. Is Tony Soprano dead? Hollywood Steve took the “Koko” answer to his grave.

Stair : I would never name names. Only Hollywood Steve knows for sure, and someone would have to give him big Hollywood dollars to spill.

Any Port in a Storm After 10 stellar installments, including a guest appearance by “Cleveland” Drew Carey , a case for Jethro Tull (the 18th century farmer, not the band) to be considered smooth and a primer on how Michael McDonald influenced Nineties G-Funk , Yacht Rock was canceled by Channel 101 after “FM” — about a gang war between the Eagles and Steely Dan. But help was on the horizon.

Ryznar : The record at the time was 12. We really wanted to beat it — but we didn’t. There might have been Yacht Rock fatigue in the audience.

Lyons: It’s not one of my favorites. I’m not a fan of the Eagles, and not a lot of people get Steely Dan.

Huey: Some people come back to Channel 101 month after month after month. But you always get some new people in there who don’t know what’s going on. You cross your fingers that general audience goodwill is enough to get you by this month. Unfortunately, in this case, it wasn’t.

Ryznar : It was heartbreaking, man. Because the great thing about Channel 101 is, you can feel when the audience isn’t into it. And the audience was not into this. I knew the 101 days were over as soon as the screening was done.

Stair : Nowadays, things have two- or three-year runs at Channel 101. Back then, 10 episodes was a lot.

Ryznar : Not even two weeks after we were canceled, I got an email from someone who booked a bar in Chicago — The Empty Bottle — and wanted to screen all the Yacht Rocks. I forget if they flew us out or if we just happened to be there, but we screened all the episodes back to back. There was a line down the block; the place was filled to capacity. People were quoting lines.

Huey: The show had started to go viral. Working lower level jobs in reality television, and then walking into a bar and being the most famous person in that room didn’t match up with my everyday experience at all.

Cast Off . . . Again After successfully touring the country, JD & co. starting making new episodes, beginning with Footloose. Featuring the likes of Jason Lee and Wyatt Cenac, it tells the story of how Loggins being kidnapped by Jimmy Buffett led to one of the Eighties’ most rockin’ soundtracks.

Huey: Yeah I was really excited to get back into it, because I didn’t really have too much else going on at that point. Let’s do that thing that made me semi-famous again!

Ryznar : We did the Footloose episode. And it turned out even better than I could have imagined. It was nice, since we weren’t limited to five minutes, even though we tried to keep it close: one of the keys to Yacht Rock is jamming everything into five minutes. I had done some work with Jason Lee, who would quote lines every time I saw him. So I asked if he’d play Kevin Bacon, and he was throwing chairs around.

Lyons: We kept talking about the stories that we never got to tell, one of them being Footloose. And I hate Jimmy Buffett ‘s music; I think it’s a soundtrack to date rape. I think it’s garbage music for people who have no interest in listening to anything good.

Ryznar : We portrayed parrotheads being brainwashed idiots. You kind of have to be if you’re into Jimmy Buffett. Or just want to be so tuned out of life, that like hey, whatever — kick back with flip flops, drink some margs, listen to some sweet Jimmy Buffett music and let him paint a rosy picture of a reality that does not exist.

Lyons: I always like that artists like Bertie Higgins, Rupert Holmes and Andy Kim have an authentic longing in their music. Buffett is a rich dude getting richer off of the lack of taste of the poor and stupid. He represents the lowest common denominator in music, even worse than country singers profiting off of 9/11. To summarize: I’m not really a fan.

Ryznar : You might be able to argue that Jimmy Buffett music is about escaping from a dark place, but there’s no soul in there. So we just wanted to make him an absolute idiot. Our good friend Vatche Panos, who is super funny, really hit a home run with that one.

Cenac: I remember when we were shooting that, I had no idea there was a song called “Cheeseburgers in Paradise.” Much less that people actually listened to it and liked it.

Ryznar : I hope he doesn’t mind me telling this story, but Wyatt Cenac had just auditioned for The Daily Show , and he was flat broke.

Cenac: Yeah, I was definitely very broke. That isn’t why I did it. I did enjoy it. But there was also a part of being broke where you’ll do anything.

Ryznar : And then a month later, he becomes Wyatt Cenac, the international sensation.

Cenac: Do I want to say that Yacht Rock was the thing that changed my life? Someone can say it. You can find someone to connect the dots and make that leap on the Internet.

Huey : We did one more, and I didn’t feel like the last episode came together as well as it could have for whatever reason. I think Footloose was a more cohesive episode. Also the original idea for the finale was Gene Balboa was going to kidnap all these people from the “We Are the World” session , take them to an island, and force them to write soundtrack hits for him. Anyone who tried to escape would get hunted down like in The Most Dangerous Game.

Ryznar : That was a hard one to write — the space battle, Hall and Oates shooting lasers, Loggins starting his soundtrack phase. I’m proud of killing off Hollywood Steve and making it a pain drug-induced hallucination. I think that let us go nuts with it. The “We Are the World” part was a fun shoot. You just look around and go, wow, I know so many talented people that are bringing so much to this thing.

Stair : The Hollywood Steve “character” was on morphine, not Huey. Well, he might have been on morphine, I don’t know. That’d be an awesome salacious story about Yacht Rock. Just write that, it’s even better.

Huey : When I was using, it did get increasingly harder to tell where the character stopped and I began. Once you’ve been on VH1’s “100 Greatest Songs of the Nineties,” the public expects you to maintain a certain image, and I guess I got caught up in a myth. [ Pause ] I’m kidding. But I did murder a homeless woman. Just to see what it felt like.

Farnham: One of my favorite moments of all of Yacht Rock is when Giorgio Moroder is whispering into Kenny Loggins’ ear about “the Danger Zone.” I love that. It’s such a good moment.

Ryznar : Loggins going soundtrack is kind of like the end of Yacht Rock. If “Sailing” is one of the greatest yacht-rock songs ever, and that’s in Episode Two, it’s all death from then on. “Danger Zone” — there’s just nothing smooth about that song at all. By 1985, Michael McDonald had released his last great album. The Doobie Brothers were done. Toto didn’t have any more good songs in them. Steely Dan was broken up. It was over.

How did the actual musical artists react to their portrayal in the show? John Oates (speaking to the Seattle Weekly in 2007): “I think Yacht Rock was the beginning of this whole Hall & Oates resurrection. They were the first ones to start to parody us and put us out there again, and a lot of things have happened because of Yacht Rock. “

Ryznar : People actually contacted me and wanted to see if I wanted tickets to [their] shows at the Hollywood Bowl. We went backstage and met Hall and Oates. There’s a picture out there somewhere of Drew Hancock and Wade Randolph with Hall and Oates — and it’s awesome.

Randolph: I don’t know who contacted who, but Oates had seen the show and was apparently a fan of it. Hall didn’t give a fuck about us at all. He was just like whatever.

Hancock: Oates actually understood what we were doing. First of all, he’s the shortest dude on the planet. I’m 5’8, and he looked at me and said, man you’re way too tall to play me. I think he’s 5’4 and had thick heels on too.

Cenac: Oates is the unsung hero in that group. The moment he decides to turn the jets on, watch out.

Lyons: The only negative thing I’ve ever heard from any of the actual people we’ve portrayed was that Kenny Loggins wasn’t a huge fan. My wife met him once, and said my husband played Koko in Yacht Rock. He just got all, huh. Not mean, not nasty. Just: Huh.

Stair : I’m not sure Loggins liked it, [but] I know his son did. A lot of the kids of the guys in the show like. You know, some serious artists. Michael McDonald, I’m pretty sure he liked it.

“I met Steve Porcaro at a book-release party, and he asked, ‘Do you guys hate us?’ We’re writing a love letter to this music and we meant no ill will toward anybody. Except for Jimmy Buffett.”

Michael McDonald (speaking to Time Out New York in 2008): “I thought Yacht Rock was hilarious. And uncannily, you know, those things always have a little bit of truth to them. It’s kind of like when you get a letter from a stalker who’s never met you. They somehow hit on something, and you have to admit they’re pretty intuitive.”

Lyons: Did JD tell you the story of when we went to see Steely Dan? We got contacted by somebody in their camp, I don’t remember who, but they gave us four or five tickets to see them in Irvine. We were in the third or fourth row, and Michael McDonald was the opening act. Those guys got recognized at the concert. Later, when Michael McDonald came out to perform with Steely Dan, they were all wearing captain’s hats. They were singing the song “Showbiz Kids”: “Showbiz kids, showbiz kids making movies themselves/Showbiz kids, don’t give a fuck about anybody else.” And during that line they threw their hats on the ground and stomped on them. We just looked at each other and went, oh my god, they know who we are.

Agee: About a year ago, I was at Largo, and one of the guys that works there is married to Steve Porcaro’s daughter. He was like, yeah, Steve is actually here tonight; he loves Yacht Rock, and said he wanted to meet me. I cut out early because I was honestly too nervous.

Stair : I met Steve Porcaro at a book-release party, and he kind of pulled me aside and asked, “Do you guys hate us?” And I was like, oh no, I hope that’s not the impression we gave anybody. We’re writing a love letter to this music and we meant no ill will toward anybody. Except for Jimmy Buffett.

Farnham: I actually worked with an editor who was good friends with the Toto folks, and they said it’s uncanny how close some of these stories are. Apparently there’s a lot more truth than we know.

Agee: So I can see how bands would be like, oh, they’re making fun of us. But I’ve known JD for awhile now, and I know for a fact that he loves that music. I don’t think someone who hated what’s now called yacht rock . . they wouldn’t spend so much time making videos about it.

Stair : The way I always looked at Yacht Rock was that we kind of did what the Blues Brothers did. We took the music that we really loved that we weren’t really part of, and reintroduced it to our own generation a little bit. The one thing that I hope we got across is that the music is really good, and that we were huge fans of it. The whole reason we did the show is because we loved it.

Lyons: I felt we always treated the music lovingly. It was always treated with respect; what we were trying to make fun of was all these guys hanging out and the ridiculous things they were into. I heard a story that Kenny Loggins got married in the nude. I don’t know if it’s true or not. But that’s the kind of late Seventies/early Eighties Southern California horse shit that is so delightful about Yacht Rock. Like wanting to find out what your root chakra is. That’s what’s funny about it. [ Pause ] I mean of course Kenny Loggins and Steve Perry are going to be into karate!

Best of Rolling Stone

The 50 Greatest Eminem Songs

All 274 of Taylor Swift's Songs, Ranked

The 500 Greatest Albums of All Time

Watch Caitlin Clark try her hand at baseball announcing

The Fever rookie had some fun with a Brewers-Phillies game.

Cindy Crawford, 58, uses this L'Oreal mascara for a 'classic' look — down to $11

This top seller is made to volumize, thicken and lengthen lashes with a lightweight formula and flexible, defining bristle brush.

AL Central setting up as MLB's most compelling and competitive division with three regular-season series to go

The Guardians are on their way to winning the division, while the Royals, Twins and Tigers are all jockeying for wild-card position.

Jaromir Jágr, 52, scores first goal in 37th and likely last professional season

Jágr was the No. 5 overall pick in the 1990 NHL Draft by the Pittsburgh Penguins.

Here's every way Caitlin Clark made ratings history this year

The 10 most-watched games in the WNBA this season included Caitlin Clark.

Internet surveillance firm Sandvine says it's leaving 56 'non-democratic' countries

Sandvine, the makers of surveillance-ware that allowed authoritarian countries to censor the internet and spy on their citizens, announced that it is leaving dozens of “non-democratic” countries as part of a major overhaul of the company. As part of this new strategy, Sandvine said it has already left 32 countries and is in the process of leaving another 24 countries. Sandvine did not name the 56 countries, apart from Egypt, where Sandvine promised to leave by the end of March 2025.

Photos show the aftermath of Israel's 'targeted strike' in Beirut following explosive pager attacks

Israeli forces have carried out a deadly targeted airstrike on Hezbollah in Beirut, Lebanon following days of electronic device explosions around the country.

Here's what a TV show based on Untitled Goose Game could have been like

There were hopes to turn Untitled Goose Game into a TV show at one point. A proof-of-concept video shows what that might have looked like.

How to watch the Anthony Joshua vs. Daniel Dubois fight: Full card, where to stream and more

It's time for Anthony Joshua and Daniel Dubois to face off in the ring. Are you ready to watch?

IMAGES

STREETS OF MONACO: This 500-foot Superyacht comprises a floating
A Look at Streets of Monaco, the World's Most Absurd Yacht
Introducing “Streets of Monaco,” the World’s First $1 Billion Super
Inside $1 Billion Yacht Streets Of Monaco
A Look at Streets of Monaco, the World's Most Absurd Yacht
Exploring the Extravagance of the Streets of Monaco Yacht

VIDEO

Monaco billionaires yachts #monaco #yachtlife #yacht #billionaire
The Streets of Monaco Yacht
Mega yachts in Monaco #monaco #yachtlife #yacht #lifestyle #billionaire #monacolifestyle
Monaco Diaries !!!
Nightlife in MONACO is on Another Level, hypercar madness!
A look Inside: A 221 Ft Superyacht During The 2024 Monaco F1 Event

COMMENTS

A Closer Look at the $400 Million Superyacht Streets of Monaco
The Streets of Monaco is a lovely dream which one day may become a reality, but as of now, it's locked away in the minds of the designers in a set of blueprints waiting for someone to step up to the plate with the necessary funding to commission the building of this $400 million dream yacht. One thing is for certain, it would be the biggest ...
A City at Sea: New Mega-Yacht Concept Resembles the Streets of Monaco
A City at Sea: New Mega-Yacht Concept Resembles the Streets of Monaco. Matthew Von Daven. May 25, 2021. Yachts. A sovereign city-state located in the French Riviera, Monaco is known as a "billionaire's playground" for its lavish lifestyle, beautiful architecture, high-end casinos, and love for its famous annual street circuit race, The ...
Inside $1.1 BILLION Dollar Yacht
Inside $1.1 BILLION Dollar Yacht | Streets of Monaco (Insane Construction)Showcasing This Insane $1.1 Billion Dollar Yacht, How incredible would it be to own...
$1.1 Billion Streets of Monaco Yacht
The Streets of Monaco Yacht isn't your typical luxury yacht. In fact, it doesn't even come close. Currently in the design process, this one-of-a-kind yacht is set to become the world's most expensive at a cost of over $1.1 billion to build. Yacht Island Design modeled the super ship after a section of Monte Carlo, and it will feature smaller ...
A Look at Streets of Monaco, the World's Most Absurd Yacht
A Look at Streets of Monaco, the World's Most Absurd Yacht. By Rob Bear Jul 15, 2013, 7:00pm EDT. Welcome to Mansions on the High Seas, a new Curbed summer series exploring the great, wide world of the megayacht. Stay tuned right here for jaw-dropping photos, backstories, and factoids about some of the most famous floating fortresses and trophy ...
155m SWATH 'The Streets of Monaco' superyacht by Yacht Island Design
`The Oasis', on the The Streets of Monaco superyacht design located aft, acts as the main boarding point for the yacht, an expansive area modelled on the gardens just outside the Monaco Casino. On entering the Oasis, attention is immediately drawn to the central waterfall feature consisting of upper level pools cascading down into the lower pool and Spa Pool.
Designs for 'Streets of Monaco' Yacht Unveiled
Yacht Island Design has released plans for a £244 million gargantuan yacht that replicates the streets of Monaco. Christened 'The Streets Of Monaco', the super ship mimics the key landmarks of the wealthy city-state, including the famous Hotel de Paris, Prince's Palace, Loews Hotel, Port Hercule and La Rascasse. It also boasts a go kart race ...
The Streets Of Monaco. The Yacht That Could Revolutionize Luxury
The yacht that could revolutionize luxury yachting. " The Streets of Monaco ", the eccentric yacht would be the closest thing to the idea of a floating luxury hotel. A surprisingly flashy and expensive prototype, " The Streets of Monaco," a $ 965 million titan. The project designed by Yacht Island Design is still a prototype, but if ...
Streets of Monaco yacht features urban replica of Monaco
The new 155m Streets of Monaco yacht has been designed by Yacht Island Design, in association with UK-based naval architectural firm BMT Nigel Gee. Currently in the design stage, it is conceived as a floating island featuring its own fully functional go kart circuit. The entire design is a unique recreation of a small section of the ...
Streets of Monaco: £700 million 'yacht-island' monster
Named 'Streets of Monaco', this 508-foot 'yacht island' concept takes a collection of the principality's most iconic features, perches them on a vast catamaran and powers them along (at speeds of up to 15 knots) by means of a diesel-electric set-up. Particular 'highlights' from the extensive features list include a replica of the ...
Mega Yachts: Streets of Monaco
While only at a design stage, The Streets Of Monaco would likely exceed the £665 million price-tag rumored to be paid by Roman Abramovich for his 'Eclipse' yacht to become the world's most expensive personal boat. At 500ft, The Streets of Monaco is 25ft shorter than the Chelsea owner's super-yacht but Abramovich would undoubtedly be ...
Streets of Monaco
The Streets of Monaco super yacht, by Yacht Island Design, explores bold and daring ideas which challenge the accepted norms within the yachting industry. By Christopher White. Updated: May 10, 2011. VIP Suites 'The Grand Atrium' is the central hub of the yacht, linking the upper and lower living areas. At its centre is a large, ornate ...
Inside £1bn superyacht 'Streets of Monaco'
The luxury yacht will feature a replica of the Monaco Grand Prix track, casinos and swimming pools Credit: yachtislanddesign.com. The Streets of Monaco is a luxury yacht inspired by the lavish ...
Themed superyacht concept features fully functional 'Monaco Grand Prix
Yacht Island Design thinks there's a market for such vessels and has set about developing several themed yacht concepts. The first is "The Streets of Monaco," a 155 m (508.5 ft) long yacht that ...
The Streets of Monaco: Inside the Billion-Dollar Yacht
The yacht Streets of Monaco is a stunning vessel that was designed to emulate the glamorous atmosphere of the famous city-state in the south of France. It was first conceived in 2011 by the yacht designers at Yacht Island Design, and its construction was completed by the Dutch shipyard, Icon Yachts, in 2015. The yacht is a true marvel of modern ...
The $1 billion luxury yacht
The $1 billion Streets of Monaco is a concept, luxury yacht by Yacht Island Design that while not yet complete, will eventually feature a go-kart track, casinos, a replica of the Monaco Grand Prix track, tennis courts, swimming pools and a bar. The 152-metre luxury yacht, as its name suggests, will be a floating replica of the city of Monaco.
Inside £1bn superyacht 'Streets of Monaco'
The luxury yacht will feature a replica of the Monaco Grand Prix track, casinos and swimming pools Credit: yachtislanddesign.com. The Streets of Monaco is a luxury yacht inspired by the lavish city that, while still in the design phase, will feature everything you'd expect from a visit to the French city-state, including casinos and swimming pools. ...
Streets of Monaco Yacht pictures: Replica city and race-track ...
With a prohibitive price of $1.1 billion the Streets of Monaco Yacht, named after the famous principality and millionaire's playground, is a lesson in extravagance and exclusivity. Currently the ...
This £1 billion super yacht has a Grand Prix circuit you can race go
"The Monaco story extends beyond this exterior architecture and into the interior spaces giving a seamless transition as guests move between the various areas of the yacht." While these images show some early concept designs and artist impressions, the company is working towards making the Streets of Monaco a reality.
Yachts in Monaco: The 10 best luxury yachts in the world
A yacht project too good to be true: the Streets of Monaco. Super- and megayachts are the stuff of dreams, which sometimes brings about media coverage of crazy projects, real buzz machines for the sensationalist press. The Streets of Monaco concept falls into this category.
The Streets of Monaco by Yacht Island Design
Yacht Island Design is described by Directors Rob McPherson and Scott Poxon as a team wishing to push design boundaries and create themed superyachts, with The Streets of Monaco being the first of two new concept designs. Teaming up with BMT Nigel Gee, Yacht Island Design has created a one-of-a-kind design that quite literally incorporates land ...
1,1 Bilion Dollar Super Yacht "Streets of Monaco"
Owner: N/APrice: $1.1 BillionAt an impressive 500 feet in length, the Streets of Monaco luxury yacht manages to pack in numerous miniatures of renowned landm...
Inside The Street Of Monaco
In this video, you are going to see The Most Luxurious And Expensive Yacht In The World called the Street Of Monaco and it costs an incredible 1 billion doll...
Life Aboard the Ulyssia, a Yacht for Year-round Living
The tiny yacht had traveled to East 70th Street from Los Angeles and, before that, made stops in Monaco and Zurich, Cannes, and West Palm Beach — a prop to entice buyers who can spend $10 ...
The largest yachts to have ever attended the Monaco Yacht Show
The Monaco Yacht Show is the most highly anticipated event of the Mediterranean season. But this year has generated even more excitement than usual, with a series of impressive milestones reached. The biggest superyacht in the show's history - the 122-metre Kismet - will be in attendance, alongside the largest number of 100-metre-plus yachts overall with the arrival of the 111.9-metre ...
Sail Away: The Oral History of 'Yacht Rock'
Dave "Koko" Lyons, center, and Hunter "Messina" Stair regale some young women with tales of smooth-music adventures in 'Yacht Rock.' The viral Internet series celebrates its 10th anniversary.
199 Monaco Street, Broadbeach Waters, Qld 4218
Land parcels of this size and water frontage are a rare find on Monaco Street - be among the first to inspect with Michael Kollosche on 04111 888 15 or Marco De Vincentiis on 0433 112 260. Disclaimer: This property is being sold by auction or without a price and therefore a price guide cannot be provided. The website may have filtered the ...

A Closer Look at the $400 Million Superyacht Streets of Monaco

History of the superyacht Streets of Monaco

Who’s commissioning the Streets of Monaco?

The proposed specifications and amenities

Will the fantasy ever be brought to life?

Final thoughts

Similar Posts

A Closer Look at Steven Spielberg’s Yacht Seven Seas

A Closer Look at Riva Yachts New Bahamas Convertible

The 10 Finest Gulet Yachts on the Market Today

Three Yacht Builders Who Can Help You Cruise the World

The Top Five Dominator Yacht Designs

Sirena’s New Fully Customizable 78-Foot Yacht

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Site search

A Look at Streets of Monaco, the World's Most Absurd Yacht

Share this story

155m SWATH ‘The Streets of Monaco’ superyacht by Yacht Island Design

Related News

Quick Enquiry

The Mediterranean

90m ‘Tropical Island Paradise’ superyacht by Yacht Island Design

Sunreef Yachts to be present at Kuwait Yacht Show 2014

Successful US premiere of motor yacht Arcadia 85 US Edition (hull #8) by Arcadia Yachts

International expansion of luxury yacht builder Sunreef Yachts

Motor yacht GALILEO in the Maldives until October 9th offering 10% off remaining weeks

2024 MONACO YACHT SHOW: Only two weeks to go before the superyachts dock at Port Hercule

Charter special offer on board 43m luxury yacht SUNRISE

Superyacht Charters: A luxury alternative to celebrating Christmas and New Year at home

Yacht Charter Etiquette: Essential advise for a seamless travel experience

Luxury motor yacht SIDURI III for charter in the Western Mediterranean

10 sensational superyachts with spectacular swimming pools

A luxury charter yacht is the perfect way to encounter New England’s fall foliage display

45m custom superyacht SAN will debut at the 2024 Monaco Yacht Show

Inaugural CROYA Charter Show announced for 4th to 6th October 2024 in Split, Croatia

31m luxury yacht CARPE DIEM available for charter in the Bahamas

Charter yachts offering citizen science opportunities around the world

55m superyacht YN20555 is launched by Heesen Yachts and named superyacht SERENA

Late summer special offer on board 72m superyacht ARBEMA in the Western Mediterranean

Yacht Island Design Unveils 'Streets of Monaco' Project

The Streets of Monaco. The yacht that could revolutionize luxury yachting

The Streets of Monaco

Share this:

Most Popular

Streets of Monaco yacht features urban replica of Monaco

The TRELLIS collection

Bar & Leisure Focus Project: L’Île Mystérieuse

Bar & Leisure Focus Project: Kali Mexican Coffee Roasters

SLC Dormy Care Communities

SLC Crystal Cruises

Tarkett helps London Waste and Recycling Board close the loop

Email Newsletter

Login or Create account

Mega Yachts: Streets of Monaco

The New Concept in Luxury Yachting: The Themed Yacht

Project 821: The World’s First Hydrogen-Powered Superyacht

Austin Parker Launches Two New Yacht Series

Customize Your Ride: The Argos Nautic GT14 RIB Tender

Alia Yachts to Debut SAN Superyacht in Monaco

World Traveler: Westport 112 Raised Pilothouse For Sale

Newport Boat Show Announces New-Product Winners

A Standout New Brand

MORE SECTIONS

MORE FROM THE SUN

Inside £1bn superyacht ‘Streets of Monaco’ – with replica Grand Prix track, casino & tennis court

Most read in News Travel

Scottish town with one-of-a-kind water attraction that's like a theme park ride

UK's best theme parks named with record-breaking rollercoasters & revamped rides

I'm a flight attendant - this is the dangerous mistake I see passengers making

Spain tempts Brits for winter sun breaks from just £15 a night

The Streets of Monaco: Inside the Billion-Dollar Yacht

You May Also Like

Hajime Isayama Books Titans: Exploring the Impact of his Iconic Manga

Frank Miller’s Batman: Revolutionizing the Dark Knight with Grit and Iconic Storytelling

Frank Miller’s Sin City: Exploring the Dark and Gritty World of Basin City

Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands: Navigating the Challenges of Modern Monarchy

Albert II of Belgium: A Sovereign’s Journey through Turbulent Times

Inside the World’s Most Expensive Yacht: The Luxurious Features of Eclipse

Exploring the Finances of the $400 Million Yacht Named Dubai

Moungi Bawendi: Illuminating the World of Quantum Dots