The story behind the 44 metre Feadship Valeria is a colourful one that dates back to 1973, when she was commissioned by American businessman Roy Carver. She was launched two years later at Feadship’s De Vries facility and christened Lac II.
It was in 1978 that the yacht was first put up for sale, and eventually sold to the late president of Libiya, Muammar al-Gaddaffi, who renamed her as Al-Farah; the yacht would remain in his service for the next 25 years. In 2003 the yacht changed hands once again, and was acquired by her current Isle of Man-based owners who subsequently moved the yacht in 2005 to Ocean Quay in Southampton where she was laid up and covered in preparation for the refit works to follow.
The intensive refit operations began with the commissioning of Feadship’s naval architects De Voogt to review the design of the vessel with future charter use in mind. It was decided to zero-time the vessel, taking her back to pre-launch state to replace all of the on board systems and the installation of sound and vibration damping measures, in addition to a hull extension and new upper deck and mast design.
As part of the interior renovations, the crew quarters were finished in the same high quality walnut panelling as the guest areas. In addition to this, a modern audio visual & telecommunication system has been installed, along with new bridge navigation equipment, ready to meet the commercial standards associated with a charter yacht.
The exterior finishing was completely re-faired and painted to have her look like she did the day was launched at Feadship 40 years ago. A brand new teak deck was also installed.
The yacht is believed to be moved to the Netherlands soon where she will be completed.
