Phoenix II Rises: A Look Inside The Feature-Packed $130 Million Superyacht
For many, superyachts represent the pinnacle of luxury living at sea. These floating palaces boast extravagant amenities, cutting-edge technology, and unparalleled comfort. And as you would expect, they cost an eye-watering amount of money to boot. In this truly aspirational piece, we'll set sail on a luxurious voyage, exploring the most impressive superyachts currently gracing the oceans of the world.
Phoenix II
And they don’t get much more luxurious than the 295-foot-long superyacht known as the Phoenix II. Constructed by Lürssen and designed by Winch Design, it’s essentially a sequel to Phoenix.
The original vessel was 95 feet smaller, and it first set sail in 2004. The aspect they both have in common, though, is that their interiors are deeply inspired by a particular art movement.
Art deco
Winch Design managing partner and creative director Jim Dixon told Forbes, “The owner wanted Phoenix II to reference the boom time of 1920s New York and the art-deco architecture of that period.”
“It’s much stronger in character than his previous yacht. Phoenix II is an extravagant and heavily personalized boat. And I still hold her up as one of the best projects we’ve ever done.”
Big Apple brief
You can understand why Dixon is so proud of the finished product: everything about the boat fits the Big Apple brief. Even the sky lounge bar’s stools are adorned with skyscrapers!
And to make the second incarnation of the Phoenix even more distinctive, all of its finishing touches, whether its knives and forks or door handles, were specially designed for the yacht.
Formal salon
So what are the most spectacular spaces on the Phoenix II, you may ask? Well, the formal salon must be up there. Just look at the hand-gilded birds — phoenixes of course — that adorn its ceiling.
Then there are the luxurious carpets made entirely out of silk and the impressive Steinway grand piano. In fact, there’s a musical theme throughout many of the yacht’s most sumptuous rooms.
Broadway lighting
You may feel like you’re watching the latest Tony-Award-winning musical while you’re tucking into your mouth-watering multi-course meal. Yes, there’s something of a Broadway stage vibe in how the dining room is lit.
You may believe that you have suddenly wandered into Radio City Music Hall whenever you enter the foyer as well. After all, the space’s design was heavily influenced by the iconic venue.
Consummate host
You’ll certainly never be bored if you’re ever lucky enough to grace the Phoenix II, either. “The owner is a consummate host and Phoenix II is all about dining, music, and entertainment,” Andrew Winch told Forbes.
The founder of Winch Design then went on to add, “He likes to think that his dinner guests become the orchestra, while he was seated at the head as the conductor.”
Big-screen experience
Once you’ve feasted on all the lovingly prepared delicacies by the top-tier chefs, you can settle down to a big screen experience in another Radio City-inspired venue, the yacht’s cinema.
Or if you want to burn off all those calories the morning after, you should head to the gym, which boasts a view of one of two helipads. Or if that sounds too much like hard work, head to the Turkish bath to sweat them out.
Topping up your tan
Yes, you don’t always have to be on the go when you’re on the Phoenix II. There’s also a beauty salon for those who enjoy being pampered from head to toe.
And if your main goal on your vacation is to get a tan, then you should head to the sun deck, filled with loungers and featuring its own 7-meter oval-shaped swimming pool.
Wraparound views
But one of the most spectacular parts of the yacht is only accessible to its lucky owner. We’re talking, of course, about the main-deck suite, which boasts incredible wraparound views and several walk-in wardrobes.
There are even marble his-and-hers bathrooms complete with steam shower. But the Phoenix II also has seven other similarly magnificent staterooms which can accommodate a total of 14 guests.
Blown away
Forbes magazine’s Bill Springer was certainly impressed by his guided tour of the Phoenix II. “No other yacht achieves such opulence, style, and over-the-top superyacht luxury quite like it,” he remarked.
The writer didn’t stop enthusing there, either, going on to add, “Needless to say, I was blown away by the level of craftsmanship and attention to detail I found on board.”
Azzam
Of course, the sequel to the original Phoenix is far from the world’s only superyacht. For a good six years, the 180-meter Azzam held the title of the world’s biggest privately owned yacht.
Constructed by Nauta Design and launched in 2013 the Azzam may have since been surpassed in stature by the REV Ocean, but it still remains one of the world’s fastest yachts.
Need for speed
Nauta Design’s founder Mario Pedol told BOAT International that he wanted to incorporate this need for speed in the Azzam’s design. He said, “Fortunately enough, the requirement of interior volume was not excessive for the length.”
“So it did allow us to design a balanced and elegant yacht with good proportions. I’ve had many comments that, from some distance, you can’t tell she is a 180-meter yacht.”
Wealth of wood furniture
Nauta Design has been keen to keep the exact look of the Azzam’s interiors a surprise for first-time boarders. But we do know that Christophe Leoni, a designer from France, was inspired by his previous work on the owner’s other residencies.
And to say that these were rather grand is something of an understatement. BOAT International reported that the Azzam boasts a “wealth of wood furniture intricately veneered with mother-of-pearl marquetry.”
Pumping iron
As you would expect, the Azzam can accommodate far more people than the Phoenix II: 80 crewmen and 36 guests to be exact. And there are plenty of different activities for those on board to keep themselves occupied.
Those who like pumping iron on their vacations can make use of the gym. But if they prefer something a little more leisurely, then there’s also a golf training room which allows any aspiring Scottie Schefflers to practise their swings.
Chandelier
You know that a yacht is operating at a different level when one of the main goals during the production stage is to make sure that its chandelier doesn’t rattle.
A crack team of engineers and designers were tasked with ensuring that guests weren’t disturbed with the sound of vibrating opulent light fixtures. And according to Pedol, it’s a mission that they pulled off with aplomb.
Eclipse
Then there’s Eclipse, the superyacht owned by Russian oligarch and former Chelsea soccer club owner Roman Abramovich. First setting sail in 2010 the boat was crowned Motor Yacht of the Year at the 2011 World Superyacht Awards.
And it’s not hard to see why it is held in such high regard. After all, where else would you find a 16-meter swimming pool which also doubles up as a dancefloor?
Three helipads
The brainchild of designer Terence Disdale, the Eclipse can accommodate 66 crewmen and, with its 18 staterooms, up to 36 guests. And many of them could simultaneously arrive on the yacht in helicopters.
Yes, there are no fewer than three different helipads on board, including one in the foredeck’s storage hangar. That’s perhaps little surprise when you learn that the Eclipse is the world’s third-longest superyacht.
Plunge pools
Those on board the Eclipse certainly have no excuse when it comes to staying in shape. The yacht contains a gym that’s a massive 77 square meters and no doubt contains every piece of equipment under the Sun.
Of course, there are still plenty of more relaxing spaces, too, including a beauty salon, a massage parlor, a sauna, and two different plunge pools. The upper deck also boasts a wood-burning fire pit ideal for stargazing.
Missile defense system
Perhaps the Eclipse’s most distinctive feature is its missile defense system. Yes, you did read that right. Abramovich’s pride and joy is certainly prepared for hostile encounters.
Should this system fail, then perhaps guests can also escape via the yacht’s accompanying submarine. But the oligarch seems just as concerned about any prying press photographers as he does invaders.
Laser shields
The Eclipse also has its own anti-paparazzi system, a “laser shield” which can detect the use of any digital cameras in its vicinity. The bright light beam it then emits renders any photo taken unusable.
But there is one flaw to the superyacht’s incredibly committed approach to defying the tabloids. Any photographers using traditional mechanical or analog equipment will still have no trouble taking any revealing or incriminating images.
Streets of Monaco
But when it comes to pure unadulterated extravagance, look no further than the $1 billion superyacht intriguingly named the Streets of Monaco. The clue to its opulence is in the title, after all.
Conceived by Yacht Island Design, the 152-meter boat is an attempt to replicate the affluent principality on the sea. And that even includes a tribute to one of the Formula One world’s most exciting annual events, the Monaco Grand Prix!
Indoor go-karting
That’s right: any aspiring Lewis Hamiltons or Max Verstappens can live out their motor-racing fantasies via the indoor go-kart track. And with only 16 guests allowed on board at any given time, there should be plenty of room to enjoy this unique experience.
The 70 crewmen probably don’t get a chance to sample its delights. As for the Streets of Monaco itself, well that usually cruises at a less-breakneck speed of around 13 knots — that’s roughly 15mph.
Monaco Casino gardens
The Streets of Monaco boasts facilities for both submarines and helicopters, while you can also gamble to your heart’s content in the casino, practise your backhand on the tennis court, or go for a dip in the swimming pools.
Its cafe serves up underwater views, while its owner can relax in a three-floor, 445-square meter space dubbed the Atrium. Then there’s the boarding area inspired by the Monaco Casino’s spectacular gardens.
Non-stop pampering
If that wasn’t enough luxury for you, then the superyacht also has a number of private massage parlors, a hair and manicure salon, a spa, several steam rooms, a jacuzzi, and a sauna.
If you can’t relax on the Streets of Monaco, where can you? There are also several multi-level swimming pools for those who want to get a little bit active in between all the pampering.
Innovative floating platforms
“We like to base our designs upon innovative floating platforms,” Yacht Island Designs said of its flagship project. “It frees us to explore bold and daring ideas which challenge the accepted norms within the yachting industry.”
It went on, “No longer are we bound by the restrictions of a conventional hull shape.” The company proudly added, “This unleashes creative flair and individualism for our clients as well as us!”
Dilbar
“One of the most complex and challenging yachts ever built, in terms of both dimensions and technology.” That’s how shipyard Lürssen describes the superyacht christened Dilbar that was built for Alisher Usmanov.
The billionaire from Uzbekistan wanted to replace his previous same-named boat. And at 46 meters longer, the Espen Øino-designed yacht — which first set sail in 2016 — is the world’s fourth-biggest.
Sofa cushions galore
Approximately 100 crewmen can be accommodated on each voyage to wait on the maximum 24 guests hand and foot. And there’s certainly plenty of space for all those on board.
In fact, the Dilbar has a higher interior volume than any other yacht out there: 3,800 square meters to be exact. And every meter has been styled to perfection by Winch Design. This includes a staggering 1,000 specially made sofa cushions.
Record-breaking pool
The Dilbar’s crowning glory is undoubtedly its record-breaking swimming pool. Filled with 180 cubic meters of water, it is the biggest in the superyacht world, no mean feat considering the vast amounts of money spent on such vessels.
Those guests with green fingers, meanwhile, can spend their days at sea enjoying its garden, complete with plants from various countries in the Mediterranean and a grass specially designed to withstand salt air.
While away the time
If swimming or gardening don’t float your boat, fear not: there are a range of other facilities that will help while away the time. You can enjoy the latest blockbuster in the yacht’s on-board cinema, for example.
Or you can get pampered from head to toe at its beauty salon, or working out at the gym. And these are all powered by cabling which stretches to a remarkable 1,100 kilometers!
Four-year construction
Perhaps the most remarkable thing about the Dilbar is how quickly it was constructed. It took just four years from the day it officially got the go-ahead to when it first set sail.
As you can imagine, the vessel also came with a hefty price tag. In fact, the U.S. Treasury Department states that the superyacht is now worth up to a whopping $700 million!
Sailing Yacht A
Owned by Andrey Melnichenko, a billionaire from Russia, the Sailing Yacht A took a year longer than the Dilbar to construct, but it is no less impressive, at a colossal 143 meters long.
Despite its size, you might be surprised to learn that it can achieve a top speed of about 20 knots — that’s roughly 24mph. Meanwhile, thanks to its design by esteemed Frenchman Phillippe Starck, it’s as graceful as it is imposing.
Elegance and sophistication
Starck has claimed wanted to create a superyacht that wouldn’t conform to any traditional designs. But he still wanted to achieve a certain level of elegance and sophistication as well. Judge for yourself whether the Frenchman achieved his goal.
You can practically see every single cent of the Sailing Yacht A’s $450 million price tag, from the immaculate lounge areas to the luxurious staterooms, all of which feature an incredible attention to detail.
Observation pod
From swimming pools and spas to beach clubs and gourmet dining areas, there’s certainly plenty to keep yourself entertained on the superyacht as well. One of its most distinctive features is the observation pod.
This allows guests to witness the weird and wonderful happenings underwater. And as you would probably expect from a yacht intended for the rich and famous, there’s also the seemingly obligatory helipad.
Kismet
Then there’s the Kismet, a superyacht which if you happen to have a spare $3 million lying around, you can charter yourself for a week. It’s owned by Shahid Khan, a regular client of Lürssen.
And it’s designed by Nuvolari Lenard and Reymond Langton Design. The latter is responsible for the interiors, which have been hailed as a “beautiful, bespoke homage to the owner’s lifestyle.”
High drama
From its elaborate marble detailing and floor-to-ceiling windows, to its eyecatching staircase surrounded by walls of videos, Khan certainly appears to have a taste for high drama.
The superyacht can also house up to 40 crewmen, while there are nine cabins available for up to 12 guests. But what can you actually do to keep yourself occupied on such a luxurious vessel?
Sea scooters
Well, those who like to stay active can head for the swimming pool, gym, and dance floor. Those who prefer to simply unwind, on the other hand, can take advantage of the sauna, spa, and beauty salon or catch a film at the outdoor cinema.
Those who want to explore their ocean surroundings a little bit further, on the other hand, can also make use of the various sea scooters, dinghies, and windsurfers on board.
Tranquility
And last but certainly not least is Tranquility. Launched in 2014 the superyacht can house up to 26 guests across five decks. You’ll find plenty of bamboo, gold leaf, and wenge in its Asian-inspired interiors from Winch Design.
And its vast range of amenities include a swimming pool of 20 square meters, various areas to help top up your tan, a wellness area, a spa, and that old superyacht favorite, the helipad.
Perspex piano
Tranquility’s lucky owner can also enjoy superb wraparound views from their full-beam master suite on the upper deck, the free-standing bathtub in their en suite bathroom, and their own personal study.
Their guests can also sample culinary delights from an upper-saloon dining room which is home to the kind of spectacular perspex piano that Sir Elton John would be proud to call his own. And let’s not forget the Sun area complete with jacuzzi, loungers, and cocktail bar.
Hodgdon tenders
It’s not just the main structure of Tranquility that’s out to impress. It also comes equipped with two 10-meter, custom made Hodgdon tenders. These allow guests to travel from the superyacht to the shore in style.
Or if they prefer something a little more adventurous, then they can choose from the array of electric surfboards and jetskis also on board. How the other half live!