Flying Fox, a 136-metre Lürssen (446 ft), sleek and dove-grey, reputed to be the world’s largest charter yacht, has already discovered the waters of the BVI. A-list celebrities have reportedly been spotted enjoying the sun on her deck.
Photos from yacht’s charter agent, Imperial, reveal the wonders that await anyone with US$3-million-plus to spend to experience them, along with 25 of their guests across 11 cabins.
According to Imperial, she emerged in 2019 as part of a partnership between two mega yacht superstars, award-winning exterior designer Espen Øino and interior designer Mark Berryman, who used Japanese influences for the yacht’s look.
The aim of the design was to create a feeling of refined tranquillity, with a small palette of colours, materials and finishes for a cohesive look – golden oak, caramel bamboo, brushed limestone, travertine marble and cream leather, as well as rattans and coconut shell embellishment,” writes Imperial.
A 22.5-metre wide beam means as much room as you need to spread out and get comfortable. A luxurious living space together with a unique design on both exterior and interior. The massive swimming pool runs transversely on the main deck, a first for a mega yacht of this size and a technological challenge unlocked. The yacht is loaded with eight tenders and every water toy imaginable, from fly boards, kites and hoverboards to SEABOBS and wing foils.
The yacht’s dive centre is something more akin to a naval vessel. From advanced nitrox to underwater scooters, its rigorous instructors, who often double as fitness leaders, can take you from zero to hero with a PADI certification in a matter of weeks, even if you’ve never dived before.
The only charter yacht that has two helipads – the larger one can even be converted into a dance floor so you can keep the seafaring party going all night.
Mega Yachts in the BVI
The mega yachts are here. They’re easy to spot out on the horizon, emerging from the mist like giant waterbirds, a mix of sleek lines and unexpected angles. There are 40 foot swimming pools and gyms staffed with hard-driving trainers. Its fun to speculate about who is onboard, anyone from Hollywood starlets to royalty.
Premier of the Virgin Islands, Dr the Hon. Natalio D. Wheatley recently stated “The BVI is the sailing capital of the world. We are an excellent destination to experience the wonders of the sea,” he expressed. “Moreover, we can offer world-class services through our Red Ensign Category 1 Shipping Registry.
With any luck, the mega yachts will continue to light up BVI waters for years to come, helping the economy, gracing the horizon, and igniting the dreams and imaginations of all who see them.
