Germany

Bremer Vulkan

World's largest explorer yachts

SYT brings you a selection of the largest explorer yachts both in build and part of the world fleet today.

Video: The world's largest explorer yachts

Founded in 2015 by Paolo Dose, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4663" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="VYD Studio (Company)">VYD Studio</a>, based in Trieste, Italy specialises in the interior and exterior design of superyachts. The firm has collaborated with numerous shipyards worldwide, including <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2360" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ocean King (Company)">Ocean King</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2561" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heysea Yachts (Company)">Heysea</a>, and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/752" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mengi Yay Yachts (Company)">Mengi Yay</a>. Notably, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4663" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="VYD Studio (Company)">VYD</a> has penned the exterior designs for the entire <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/752" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mengi Yay Yachts (Company)">Mengi Yay</a> 47m Virtus series, with the latest addition being the 47.3-metre superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10910" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ancora47.3m (155'2&quot;)Mengi Yay Yachts2023">Ancora</a>.&nbsp;Throughout his extensive career and before the inception of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4663" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="VYD Studio (Company)">VYD Studio</a>, Paolo Dose has collaborated on projects with international designers such as <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/65" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nuvolari Lenard (Company)">Nuvolari Lenard</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tim Heywood Design Ltd. (Company)">Tim Heywood</a>, and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/69" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Winch Design (Company)">Winch Design</a>, as well as shipyards such as <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/201" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="ISA Yachts (Company)">Isa Yacht</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/511" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tecnomar (Company)">Tecnomar</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1394" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ocean Alexander (Company)">Ocean Alexander</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/375" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Baglietto S.p.A. (Company)">Baglietto</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo (Company)">Sanlorenzo</a>, and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen</a>.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Superyacht Times</a> had the opportunity to interview <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4663" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="VYD Studio (Company)">VYD Studio</a> founder Paolo Dose to explore his background, his approach to working with clients from diverse geographical backgrounds, and insights into the latest trends and ongoing projects. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/293786/image/large-ed9fb8e9bbbfb9781786dd713aae3150.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/293786">Could you tell me about your background and what led to your entry into the yachting industry?I've always had a passion for yacht design, which initially led me to consider pursuing a career as a naval architect when I studied engineering in Trieste. After a year of studying, I had the privilege of meeting <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5678" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Luciano Di Pilla Design (Company)">Luciano Di Pilla</a>, a prominent figure in the world of interior yacht design, known for his work on some of the largest yachts of his era. His portfolio included refit projects on the 86-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/297" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kingdom 5KR86.0m (282'2&quot;)Benetti SpA1980">Kingdom 5KR</a> (previously called Nabila) and the 114-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Blohm & Voss GmbH (Company)">Blohm &amp; Voss</a> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lady Moura104.85m (343'12&quot;)Blohm & Voss GmbH1990">Lady Moura</a>, as well as the interior design of the 112.8-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/268" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bremer Vulkan (Company)">Bremer Vulkan</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/299" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Le Grand Bleu112.8m (370'1&quot;)Bremer Vulkan2000">Le Grand Bleu</a>.I was presented with the opportunity to work alongside him, which led me to leave university and join his team. I believed that gaining hands-on experience with the best in the industry was more valuable than completing my education. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5678" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Luciano Di Pilla Design (Company)">Di Pilla</a> had great faith in me and our first joint project involved the refitting of the guest area on <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lady Moura104.85m (343'12&quot;)Blohm & Voss GmbH1990">Lady Moura</a> in 2001.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/114470/image/large-ea6407487ecddf9bfa63408b5effca4d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/114470">You are involved in both interior and exterior yacht design. Did you initially start with interior design and then expand your expertise to include exterior design?In the early stages of my career I was primarily focused on interior design and my expansion into exterior design happened somewhat by chance. In 1999, I was skilled at creating virtual renderings. It was during this time that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5678" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Luciano Di Pilla Design (Company)">Di Pilla</a> expressed the need for someone to develop renderings that represent his ideas. As our collaboration evolved, he noticed that I had an eye for colours and materials, and suggested I venture into interior design on my own. Driven by my interest, I started creating interior renderings independently. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5678" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Luciano Di Pilla Design (Company)">Di Pilla</a> then started to encourage me to expand in exterior design renderings, even though he himself was not involved in that aspect. Around 2001, my skills in exterior design further developed when <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tim Heywood Design Ltd. (Company)">Tim Heywood</a> came to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5678" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Luciano Di Pilla Design (Company)">Di Pilla</a> to provide consulting on a 70-metre project. I spent some time with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tim Heywood Design Ltd. (Company)">Tim</a> and enjoyed learning from him and working in exterior design.&nbsp;Could you share the story of founding&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4663" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="VYD Studio (Company)">VYD Studio</a>&nbsp;and how the firm has evolved over the years?I established <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4663" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="VYD Studio (Company)">VYD Studio</a> in 2015 with the primary aim of forming partnerships with shipyards to bring our design projects to life. Our journey began with refits on smaller yachts, including a 25-metre sailing yacht. Then in 2016, we collaborated with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/752" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mengi Yay Yachts (Company)">Mengi Yay</a> on a concept, and by 2017 were initiated our first full-project, the interior and exterior design of the 43.69-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6838" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tatiana V43.69m (143'4&quot;)Mengi Yay Yachts2019">Tatiana V</a>, delivered in 2019. Subsequently, we penned the exterior of the 35.5-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7873" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sea Star35.5m (116'6&quot;)Mengi Yay Yachts2020">Sea Star</a>, delivered in 2020.In 2017, we started to work with the Chinese shipyard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heysea</a>. Our first project encompassed both interior and exterior design for the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2561" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heysea Yachts (Company)">Heysea</a> Asteria 142 series. The project's first unit was the 42.27-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6625" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Song of Songs42.27m (138'8&quot;)Heysea Yachts2022">Song of Songs</a>, delivered in 2022. Currently, we remain actively involved in the design of the second and third units, each measuring 43.27-metres in length, in addition to overseeing the production of two lines of catamarans and a 35-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2561" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heysea Yachts (Company)">Heysea</a> yacht.In 2019, we then partnered with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2360" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ocean King (Company)">Ocean King</a> for the exterior and interior design of the 36.8-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2360" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ocean King (Company)">Ocean King</a> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8690" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vãyus36.8m (120'9&quot;)Ocean King2023">Vãyus</a>, which saw its launch this year. 2023 stands as our most successful year to date, with six yachts ranging from 37 to 47-metres and originating from three different continents and tailored to unique and discerning owners.&nbsp;For a designer, one pivotal moment holds paramount importance, the first launch. The outcome of this inaugural project can make or break a career. A successful launch, indicating the creation of a high-quality product, paves the way for career progression. A less favourable outcome can pose significant challenges.In the case of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4663" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="VYD Studio (Company)">VYD Studio</a>, we have substantially developed and grown since 2017, following our successful first launch, which subsequently has led to our involvement in a total of 12 projects.&nbsp;Could you please share the origins of your collaboration with&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/752" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mengi Yay Yachts (Company)">Mengi Yay</a>&nbsp;and any upcoming projects you have in partnership with them?&nbsp;Our collaboration with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/752" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mengi Yay Yachts (Company)">Mengi Yay</a> was facilitated by a mutual acquaintance, Lorenzo Cappugi. The collaborative synergy between <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4663" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="VYD Studio (Company)">VYD</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/752" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mengi Yay Yachts (Company)">Mengi Yay</a> has consistently delivered successful superyacht projects, with the VIRTUS line being a notable example. This year along with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10910" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ancora47.3m (155'2&quot;)Mengi Yay Yachts2023">Ancora</a>, we have launched the 39.43-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10783" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Reverie39.43m (129'4&quot;)Mengi Yay Yachts2023">Reverie</a>, the 43.5-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10784" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Gisa43.5m (142'9&quot;)Mengi Yay Yachts2023">Gisa</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/292138/image/large-84050ed1045df7af367e2c1edcdb4f39.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/292138">Currently, we are expanding the Virtus series with the luxury explorer XP series, which was unveiled during <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/122" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Monaco Yacht Show - 2022">Monaco 2022</a>. Two 53-metre units are currently under construction, with scheduled delivery in 2025.To transform the design of the luxury explorer XP series into reality, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4663" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="VYD Studio (Company)">VYD</a> starts from the inside, perfecting and optimising the general arrangement (GA) to ensure a balanced and enjoyable yacht. Once the interior spaces are interconnected and well-conceptualised, we extend our design process to the exterior, creating a shell that not only contains but also enhances the interior innovations. The result is a vessel that combines the sturdiness and safety of an explorer yacht with the modernity and style of the Virtus Line, offering a "Luxury Explorer" experience.&nbsp;Key design features of this under 500 GT project include an owner's cabin on the upper deck with access to a private open deck with a pool, a permanent helideck, a spacious beach club with a pool directly connected to the sea through unfolding sea terraces, guest cabins on the main deck for optimised crew space on the lower deck, exterior areas that can be either open or enclosed through windshield glass and a substantial elevator connecting all decks.My most recent design with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/752" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mengi Yay Yachts (Company)">Mengi Yay</a>, involves the construction of the 34.5-metre explorer yacht named Atlante Classic, with a scheduled delivery in 2025.Could you provide insights into recent emerging trends within the yacht industry?In the 1990s, many yacht owners had a limited understanding of the technical nuances, such as the differences between composite, steel, and aluminium as well as distinctions between displacement and semi-displacement hulls. However, the landscape has evolved significantly. Today, yacht owners tend to be more knowledgeable and proactive in their enquiries, thanks to factors like globalisation and easy access to information. Moreover, seasoned owners with four, five, or six vessels under their belts, now have a clearer vision of what they seek in the market. As a designer, my role now often extends beyond aesthetics. I frequently find myself engaged in discussions covering a range of topics, from generator engines and stabilisers to hull forms. While my primary focus is on design, I also delve into engineering discussions to address the intricate demands of modern yacht owners.The shift in preferences has been notable with speed no longer the exclusive focus. Instead, there is a growing emphasis on comfort, insulation, reduced noise, and the efficient utilisation of interior space.If you could purchase your own yacht or advise a client, is there one design feature you feel has the most impact on a luxurious experience onboard?<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/293785/image/large-e7f435a76ce10f5c1257686c9863647d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/293785">The ideal onboard experience lies in the versatility of spaces. Specifically, areas like the sky lounge and saloon should be designed with a sense of adaptability. For instance, these spaces should be convertible so that, in the spring, you can enclose and control the internal climate, while in the summer, they can be fully open to the elements. This means that you can choose to keep them open during the day and, if needed, close them at night. The idea is to create flexibility in these spaces, avoiding rigidity.&nbsp;Moreover, I also appreciate the concept of neutral fixed furniture, walls, ceilings, and floors. This neutrality allows for the ease of updating and modernising the interior over the years by making changes to specific elements. This way, you can maintain a contemporary interior with minimal adjustments.Finally, any exciting projects or developments you would like to unveil? <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/293789/image/large-8eb136347b2ab818302ddabefe2031dd.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/293789">Besides our ongoing collaboration with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/752" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mengi Yay Yachts (Company)">Mengi Yay</a>, we are also engaged in a venture with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7053" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cantieri Navali Tureddi (Company)">Tureddi Shipyard</a>. Furthermore, In recent months, we have been involved in another &nbsp;project: a spacious and truly sustainable catamaran. We view this vessel as a platform to explore innovative solutions and challenge the limits traditionally associated with multi-hull designs, particularly in terms of space and luxury.

Meet designer Paolo Dose: Founder of VYD Studio

Superyacht Times had the opportunity to interview VYD Studio founder Paolo Dose

The world's largest 100m+ yachts

SYT gives you an overview of the world's largest yachts ever launched. 

Top 50: The world's biggest superyachts

<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/204931/image/large-7622fdd36fb754ff4025a3505c56e2d9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/204931">The 112.8-metre explorer yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/299" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Le Grand Bleu112.8m (370'1&quot;)Bremer Vulkan2000">Le Grand Bleu</a> was built in 2000 by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/268" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bremer Vulkan (Company)">Bremer Vulkan</a> in Germany. Spotted recently anchored near Beaulieu-sur-Mer, the 5,556 GT vessel features naval architecture by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/195" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kusch Yachts (Company)">Kusch Yachts</a>, while her exterior design and general arrangement was penned by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1805" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pastrovich Studio (Company)">Pastrovich Studio</a>. Onboard, the interior of the all-steel vessel was designed in collaboration by&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5678" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Luciano Di Pilla Design (Company)">Luciano Di Pilla Design</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/17" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bannenberg & Rowell Design (Company)">Bannenberg &amp; Rowell Design</a>. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/299" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Le Grand Bleu112.8m (370'1&quot;)Bremer Vulkan2000">Le Grand Bleu</a> was one of the largest yachts in the world at the time of her launch 21 years ago. Since then, she has undergone several refits. The luxury yacht can host up to 20 guests who are taken care of by a crew of 35. Some of her standout features include a 22-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/577" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Dubois Yachts (Company)">Ed Dubois</a> designed sailing yacht and a 20-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunseeker (Company)">Sunseeker</a> yacht, &nbsp;both of which are carried on deck.

Explorer yacht Le Grand Bleu in the South of France

The 113m explorer yacht Le Grand Bleu built by Bremer Vulkan, is seen here anchored in the South of France.

<img src="https://d3w3pid64ak8v.cloudfront.net/photo/98421/image/large-accf378c3cb9c2758fe666246b0067ff.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/98421">Seen here together off Antibes last summer are the two German-built explorer yachts <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/270" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Octopus126.2m (414'1&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2003">Octopus</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/299" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Le Grand Bleu112.8m (370'1&quot;)Bremer Vulkan2000">Le Grand Bleu</a>. An <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/companies/espen-oeino">Espen Oeino</a> and <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/companies/jonathan-quinn-barnett">Jonathan Quinn Barnett</a> designed world explorer, the 126-metre <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/octopus">Octopus</a> was built in 2003 at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a>. The proven luxury expedition yacht has travelled to remote locations in all four corners of the globe and is currently the most expensive yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/50319" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="126m Lürssen world explorer Octopus listed for sale (2019-09-03 16:00:00 +0200)">for sale at €295,000,000</a>.&nbsp;Beside her lies the 112.8-metre motor yacht <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/le-grand-bleu">Le Grand Bleu</a>, built at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/268" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bremer Vulkan (Company)">Bremer Vulkan</a> in 2000. One of the largest yachts in the world at the time of her launch 20 years ago, she features naval architecture by <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/companies/kusch">Kusch Yachts</a> and exterior design and general arrangement by <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/companies/pastrovich-studio">Stefano Pastrovich</a>, while <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/companies/bannenberg-rowell">Bannenberg &amp; Rowell Design</a> were responsible for part of her interiors.

Explorer yachts Octopus & Le Grand Bleu in Antibes

The German-built explorer yachts Octopus and Le Grand Bleu spotted off Antibes on the French Riviera. 

The German explorer yachts Octopus and Le Grand Bleu in Antibes

<img src="/uploads/store/photo/114470/image/large-ea6407487ecddf9bfa63408b5effca4d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/114470">The 112.8-metre yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/299" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Le Grand Bleu112.8m (370'1&quot;)Bremer Vulkan2000">Le Grand Bleu</a> built by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/268" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bremer Vulkan (Company)">Bremer Vulkan</a> in 2000 was spotted anchored in Beaulieu-sur-Mer near Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat in France. The 5,556 GT vessel features naval architecture by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/195" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kusch Yachts (Company)">Kusch Yachts</a>, exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1805" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pastrovich Studio (Company)">Pastrovich Studio</a> and interiors from the drawing boards of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5678" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Luciano Di Pilla Design (Company)">Luciano Di Pilla Design</a>. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/299" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Le Grand Bleu112.8m (370'1&quot;)Bremer Vulkan2000">Le Grand Bleau</a> has undergone several refits in her lifetime with the most recent starting in February 2020 at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1821" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Damen (Company)">Damen</a> Shiprepair in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. Now with her third owner, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/299" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Le Grand Bleu112.8m (370'1&quot;)Bremer Vulkan2000">Le Grand Bleu</a> is one of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/50821" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="10 of the world’s largest explorer yachts (2020-01-09 15:00:00 +0100)">world’s top 10 largest explorer yachts</a>. She can host up to 20 guests who are taken care of by a crew of 35. Powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1448" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Deutz AG (Company)">Deutz</a> AG engines totalling 9,140 hp <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/299" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Le Grand Bleu112.8m (370'1&quot;)Bremer Vulkan2000">Le Grand Bleu&nbsp;</a>cruises comfortably at 15 knots and can reach a maximum speed of 17 knots.

The 113m Le Grand Bleu anchored in Beaulieu-sur-Mer

The 113m yacht Le Grand Bleu recently seen anchored in Beaulieu-sur-Mer, France.

<img src="/uploads/store/photo/96017/image/large-0b98461c66af4be1360f225cceeea73d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/96017">One of the most famous yachts in the world, the 112.8-metre motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/299" href="https://sya.superyachttimes.com/news#managed-by-system">Le Grand Bleu</a> was built in 2000 by the German shipyard<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/268" href="https://sya.superyachttimes.com/news#managed-by-system">&nbsp;Bremer Vulkan</a> and was at the time of her launch one of the largest yachts in the world. She features naval architecture by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/195" href="https://sya.superyachttimes.com/news#managed-by-system">Kusch Yachts</a> and exterior design and general arrangement by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1805" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pastrovich Studio (Company)">Stefano Pastrovich</a>, whilst <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/17" href="https://sya.superyachttimes.com/news#managed-by-system">Bannenberg &amp; Rowell Design</a> were responsible for part of her interiors. <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/le-grand-bleu">Le Grand Bleu</a>&nbsp;completed a big refit in 2016 at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3" href="https://sya.superyachttimes.com/news#managed-by-system">Blohm &amp; Voss</a> in Hamburg with several cosmetic upgrades to her exterior. Powered by twin Deutz AG 4,570hp engines, she has a top speed of 17 knots and a cruising speed of 15 knots. Here she is seen at sunrise off Portofino, Italy earlier this week.

Motor yacht Le Grand Bleu in Portofino

Spotted on the Italian Riviera earlier this week is the 112.8-metre motor yacht Le Grand Bleu, one of the most famous yachts in the world. 

Motor yacht Le Grand Bleu on the Italian Riviera

<img src="/uploads/store/photo/60787/image/large-75fcdac16e2733839e0006adca5c39a9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/60787"> The 112.8-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/299" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Le Grand Bleu112.8m (370'1&quot;)Bremer Vulkan2000">Le Grand Bleu</a> was built in 2000 by the German yard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/268" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bremer Vulkan (Company)">Bremer Vulkan</a> under the supervision of the late Claus Kusch. Originally built for an American owner, she was one of the largest yachts in the world at the time of her launch. Following her first sale in 2002, she was lengthened by 4.9 metres and British studio <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/17" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bannenberg & Rowell Design (Company)">Bannenberg &amp; Rowell Design</a> redesigned parts of her interior. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/299" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Le Grand Bleu112.8m (370'1&quot;)Bremer Vulkan2000">Le Grand Bleu</a>&nbsp;underwent a major refit in 2016 in Hamburg, including cosmetic upgrades to her exterior. Thanks to twin Deutz AG 4,570hp engines, the superyacht can reach a top speed of 17 knots and a cruising speed of 15 knots. Here she is pictured anchored off St Barths.&nbsp;

Le Grand Bleu off St Barths 

Photo: Maarten Janssen 
Take a look at Le Grand Bleu anchored off St Barths. 

Le Grand Bleu anchored off St Barths 

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/299" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Le Grand Bleu112.8m (370'1&quot;)"><img src="/uploads/store/photo/48018/image/large-6c199b24eb4e19b942c82d502089e50b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/48018">Le Grand Bleu</a> was built in 2000 by the German shipyard Bremer Vulkan and was at the time of her launch one of the largest yachts in the world. She features naval architecture and exterior design by Kusch Yachts, whilst Bannenberg &amp; Rowell Design were responsible for part of her interiors. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/299" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Le Grand Bleu112.8m (370'1&quot;)">Le Grand Bleu</a> completed a big refit in 2016 at Blohm &amp; Voss in Hamburg with several cosmetic upgrades to her exterior. Powered by twin Deutz AG 4,570hp engines, she has a top speed of 17 knots and a cruising speed of 15 knots.

The 112m superyacht le Grand Bleu at anchor

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/163966/image/large-e846d3228e0b7c687410e77c5fee67ad.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/163966">

Le Grand Bleu and Eclipse off the island of St Barths

Once owned by the same man, seen here anchored side by side off the popular Caribbean island of St Barths are the two superyachts Le Grand Bleu and Eclipse. The 112-metre Le Grand Bleu was completed in 2000 and built by Bremer Vulkan in Germany to a design by Kusch Yacht Design. Parts of her interior were designed by Bannenberg &amp; Rowell Design. Le Grand Bleu has enjoyed the ownership of a host of famous and influential people.

 

Eclipse, on the other hand, remains under the same original ownership as the day when she was delivered by Blohm &amp; Voss in 2010. Certainly one of the most famous yachts in the world today, the 162.5-metre Eclipse was once known as the largest yacht in the world before the 180-metre Azzam claimed the top spot in 2013. Eclipse’s interior and exterior is the design work of the Terence Disdale Design studio.

 

Photo by Derek Girvin

Le Grand Bleu and Eclipse in St Barths

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/153279/image/large-fc5c2cc316dc74ac74def9b62517f6a3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/153279">Superyacht Le Grand Bleu in St. BarthsEnjoying the Caribbean waters of St. Barths is the 112.80 metre expedition yacht Le Grand Bleu. Built by the German shipyard Bremer Vulkan in 2000, she features naval architecture and exterior design by Kusch Yachts, whilst Bannenberg &amp; Rowell Design were responsible for part of her interiors.She accommodates up to 20 guests on board as well as a crew of 35. Over her 15 year lifetime, she has undertaken two refits. The first in 2002 was completed by Howaldtswerke-Deutsche-Werft and included the addition of a 16’ swim platform as well as interior work. The second in 2006 was completed by Blohm &amp; Voss, and included a modification of her stern.Powered by twin Deutz AG 4,570hp engines, she has a top speed of 17 knots and a cruising speed of 15 knots.By Gemma Fottles, photo by Charl van Rooy / <a href="http://SuperYachtPhoto.com" target="_blank">SuperYachtPhoto.com</a>

Le Grand Bleu in St Barths

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/143304/image/large-5c1c875fb2de8558536c176924dc398b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/143304"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/143305/image/large-80436d0f4d6653b25a35f4a2e3c81baf.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/143305"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/143306/image/large-ee8fa493d1a8d2bcb24451398c39d20a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/143306">Le Grand Blue in Koh Rong Samloem, Cambodia The 112 metre Le Grand Blue was built by Bremer Vulkan in Germany to a Kusch Yacht design. Since her construction in 2000 she has enjoyed the ownership of a host of famous and influential people. Her interior, parts of which are designed by Bannenberg &amp; Rowell Design, ensures that the 20 guests onboard are accommodated in absolute luxury. Placed on the large aft deck is a 22 metre Dubois designed sailing yacht as well as a 21 metre Sunseeker motor yacht, a very rare complement indeed. She was photographed here by SYT reader Morten Kvammen, in the bay of Koh Rong Samloem in Cambodia.We believe she is the first 100m+ superyacht to visit this country.By Maarten Janssen, photos by Morten Kvammen

In Pictures: The 112 Metre Le Grand Bleu in Cambodia

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/139570/image/large-1b1e8edaad1abc263f5fd8e469d25c16.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/139570">Le Grand BlueLe Grand Blue was built by Bremer Vulkan in Germany to a Kusch Yacht design. Since her construction in 2000 she has enjoyed the ownership of a host of famous and influential people. Her interior, parts of which are designed by Bannenberg &amp; Rowell Design, ensures that the 20 guests onboard are accommodated in absolute luxury. Placed on the large aft deck is a 22 metre Dubois designed sailing yacht as well as a 21 metre Sunseeker motor yacht, a very rare complement indeed. In addition to the helicopter landing pad, Le Grand Bleu features a 60 knot high-speed boat and an array of other water sports toys and exploration gear.By Charl van Rooy, photo by Benoit Donne

The 112 metre superyacht Le Grand Blue at anchor

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/124084/image/large-3c4da74622341723f7b301c72884a0c5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/124084">Le Grand Bleu anchored off Rovinj<a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/299">Le Grand Bleu</a> anchored off Rovinj on 17 July 2007. The 112m Le Grand Bleu was built by Bremer Vulkan in 2000 under the supervision of the late Claus Kusch. She was originally build for an American owner, but in 2002 she was sold to a Russian owner. Following her sale the yacht was lengthened with 16ft and Bannenberg was appointed to redesign parts of her interior. In 2006 she was reportedly given to a friend of the owner, because he is currently building a replacement yacht.

Le Grand Bleu anchored off Rovinj

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<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/122518/image/large-18a5f11cf5b5032b6b6cce1c03557330.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/122518"> 
<a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/299">Le Grand Bleu</a> anchored off St Maarten 
Photo credit: <a href="https://www.superyachtphoto.com">Benoit Donne / Yacht-Images.com</a> (If you have a yacht or yacht related photo then please send it to <a href="mailto:info@superyachttimes.com?subject=Photo%20of%20the%20Day&amp;body=Please%20attach%20your%20photo%2C%20a%20short%20photo%20caption%20and%20the%20photo%20credit%20and%20we%20will%20consider%20publishing%20it%20at%20Photo%20of%20the%20Day.%0A">info@superyachttimes.com</a> for Photo of the Day)
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