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An inside look at jeff bezos’ $500 million superyacht and what it costs to keep it afloat.

Cliché but true, the second-richest man on the planet, according to Forbes , owns the tallest sailing yacht in the world . In fact, the 417-foot Koru is so big, it has its own 250-foot support vessel .

Priced at $500 million, the Koru hit the sea for the first time in 2023 and has since ferried Jeff Bezos and company around the globe. Complete with three massive 229-foot masts, it can reach a top speed under sail of 20 knots, according to the New York Post — which is approximately 23 miles per hour.

Made for a group, up to 18 guests can set sail on the yacht, allowing Bezos to bring family and friends on vacation with him. Here’s a look at the Koru’s extravagant features and how much it costs to operate his floating mansion.

Also take a look at Bezos’ mansion collection.

See More: Robert Kiyosaki: 7 Ways To Become Wealthy Beyond the 9-to-5

Read Next: 4 Genius Things All Wealthy People Do With Their Money

Wealthy people know the best money secrets. Learn how to copy them .

Key Features

As expected Bezos’ yacht is dripping with luxury. With a net worth of $203.8 billion — as of May 4, 2024, according to Forbes — he can afford to outfit the Koru with nothing but the best and he did just that.

The superyacht has three outdoor decks, with two containing swimming pools, according to the New York Post. It also features a cinema, several lounges and multiple business areas, according to Luxuo .

Highly personalized, the yacht is complete with a figurehead modeled after Bezos’ fiancée Lauren Sanchez. Even its masts are luxurious, as the Amazon founder chose in-boom furlers, which keep the canvases at the bottom of the mast above the deck, creating a pristine and spacious rope-free deck.

For You: Make Yourself Money Smart: 20 ChatGPT Prompts To Increase Your Wealth

Support Vessel

One of the most shocking features of the Koru is the fact that it requires its own support vessel. The $75 million Abeona features a helipad that Sanchez has been spotted using to park her personal helicopter, according to the New York Post.

Designed to carry extra gear, four jet skis, two fast launches and a dinghy were spotted on the Abeona during a 2023 trip to Mallorca, Spain, according to the New York Post. It’s also capable of lifting a small submarine, but Bezos isn’t believed to own one — at least not yet.

Additionally, the support ship has two extra staterooms, which can accommodate four guests. This could come in handy if Bezos wants to entertain a larger group than can fit on the Koru.

On-Board Crew

It probably isn’t a surprise that operating both the Koru and the Abeona is no small task. From staff to drive the boats and maintain them to caring for guests onboard, Bezos needs a small army at sea.

The Koru has a crew of up to 36 people, according to The New York Post. If you think that’s a lot, the Abeona requires up to 45 crew and support staff.

Annual Operating Costs

Purchasing the Koru and Abeona cost Bezos more than half a billion dollars, but his expenses didn’t end there. As you might imagine, the annual cost to maintain a superyacht and its own enormous supporting yacht is more than most people earn in a lifetime.

The Koru costs approximately $25 million in operating expenses per year, according to the Daily Mail . Much less, but still sky-high, Bezos spends around $5 to $10 million on annual maintenance costs for the Abeona, according to Super Yacht Fan ).

When their owners are on dry land, yachts have to find a parking space. However, even this doesn’t always come cheap for Bezos and the Koru.

In November 2023, the billionaire’s yacht arrived in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, but was too big to fit in the port with all the outer superyachts, according to the Daily Mail. Therefore, it had to be docked with cruise ships at Port Everglades, at a rate of $16,500 per week.

While one week of storage might be more than the average person can afford, picking up the tab for any number of weeks would clearly be no issue for Bezos. While his superyacht and the many expenses surrounding it are clearly astronomical, he’s still living well within his budget.

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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com : An Inside Look at Jeff Bezos’ $500 Million Superyacht and What It Costs To Keep It Afloat

Jeff Bezos' $500 Million Yacht: A Look at the World's Largest Private Vessel

Jeff Bezos, the founder of Amazon, is known for his extravagant lifestyle and love for luxury yachts. In April 2023, Bezos took delivery of his newest and largest yacht, Koru, which cost a staggering $500 million or more. At 417 feet, Koru is the world's largest sailing yacht, surpassing the previous record holder, the 106-meter Black Pearl.

Built by Oceanco in the Netherlands, Koru is a three-masted sailing yacht that features a sleek and modern design. Unlike other yachts owned by billionaires, Koru is powered by wind and sails, rather than diesel engines. It is reported that the yacht has a range of 7,000 nautical miles and can accommodate up to 36 guests and 60 crew members. The yacht is also equipped with a helipad, a swimming pool, a spa, and a gym.

The delivery of Koru has sparked controversy and criticism, with some arguing that the money spent on the yacht could have been put to better use. However, Bezos has defended his purchase, stating that he plans to use the yacht for scientific research and exploration. Regardless of the controversy, there is no denying that Koru is a stunning and impressive vessel that will undoubtedly turn heads wherever it sails.

Jeff Bezos, the founder of Amazon, has recently taken delivery of his new sailing yacht, Koru, after it completed its initial sea trials. The vessel is reportedly worth $500 million, making it one of the most expensive yachts in the world. This section will provide an overview of the yacht, the builder, and the cost.

Koru is a three-masted sailing yacht that is 417 feet long, making it the largest sailing yacht in the world. It was built by Oceanco, a Dutch shipyard that has built many superyachts for wealthy clients. The yacht has a steel hull and a superstructure made of aluminum. It is equipped with all the luxury amenities that one would expect from a yacht of this caliber, including a pool, a support vessel, and a range of water toys.

The Builder

Oceanco is a leading superyacht builder based in the Netherlands. The shipyard has built many of the world's most impressive yachts, including the Black Pearl, which is one of the largest sailing yachts in the world. Oceanco has a reputation for building high-quality yachts that are both luxurious and innovative.

Koru reportedly cost $500 million to build, which makes it one of the most expensive yachts in the world. The yacht was built in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, and was delivered to Bezos in May 2023. The cost of the yacht has been a source of controversy, with some critics arguing that it is an excessive display of wealth.

In conclusion, Koru is a stunning sailing yacht that is equipped with all the luxury amenities that one would expect from a yacht of this caliber. It was built by Oceanco, a leading superyacht builder based in the Netherlands. The yacht reportedly cost $500 million to build, making it one of the most expensive yachts in the world.

Design and Features

Jeff Bezos' yacht, Y721, boasts an impressive design and features that make it stand out from other superyachts. The yacht has been under construction at the Oceanco shipyard in Rotterdam since 2019 and is set to be delivered in 2022.

Layout and Amenities

The Y721 is a 127-meter sailing yacht that will become the largest sailing yacht in the world upon delivery. The yacht features a sleek black hull with classic lines and a uniquely designed bowsprit - a custom spar extending forward from the ship's bow to which her forestays are fastened. The yacht's layout includes six decks, with ample space for guests and crew.

The yacht's interior is designed by Nuvolari Lenard and features a contemporary style with a focus on natural light and open spaces. The yacht has several lounges, including a main salon, a sky lounge, and a beach club. The beach club is located at the stern and includes a swimming pool, a cinema, and a gym.

Support Vessel

The Y721 also comes with a support vessel, the YS7512, which is a 75-meter Damen Yacht. The support vessel is designed to carry additional equipment, such as helicopters, tenders, and water toys. The support vessel also includes accommodation for additional guests and crew.

Toys and Entertainment

The Y721 is equipped with a range of toys and entertainment options to keep guests entertained during their stay. The yacht has a variety of water toys, including jet skis, paddleboards, and kayaks. The yacht also has a submarine, which can take guests on underwater excursions.

In addition to the water toys, the yacht has a cinema and a selection of board games and books. The yacht also has a wooden sculpture on display, adding to the yacht's artistic appeal.

Overall, the Y721 is an impressive yacht with a range of features that make it stand out from other superyachts. From the spacious layout to the range of amenities and toys on offer, the yacht is sure to provide guests with a memorable experience.

Media Coverage

News coverage.

Jeff Bezos' new yacht has been the subject of much media attention since its completion. Major news outlets such as The New York Times, BBC News, and CNN have all reported on the yacht, with some referring to it as a "superyacht" and others as a "megayacht". The yacht, named Koru, is reportedly worth $500 million and is 417 feet long.

News coverage of the yacht has focused on its size, luxury, and the fact that it is owned by one of the world's wealthiest individuals. Some reports have also speculated about the yacht's environmental impact, given its size and the fact that it is a sailing yacht rather than a motor yacht.

Social Media

The yacht has also generated significant buzz on social media platforms such as Twitter and Instagram. Many users have shared photos and videos of the yacht, expressing awe at its size and opulence. Some have also criticized Bezos for spending so much money on a yacht, arguing that the funds could be put to better use elsewhere.

The yacht has also been the subject of memes and jokes on social media, with some users poking fun at its size and the fact that it reportedly requires a smaller yacht to transport its support equipment.

Overall, media coverage of Jeff Bezos' new yacht has been extensive, with both traditional news outlets and social media users weighing in on the yacht's significance. While some have praised the yacht as a symbol of personal growth and renewal for Bezos, others have criticized it as a display of excessive wealth and indulgence.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the name of jeff bezos' yacht.

Jeff Bezos' yacht is called "Koru".

How big is Jeff Bezos' yacht?

Koru is a three-masted sailing yacht that is 127 meters (417 feet) long.

Who designed Jeff Bezos' yacht?

Koru was designed by the Dutch yacht builder, Oceanco.

What is the cost of Jeff Bezos' yacht?

The estimated cost of Koru is $500 million.

Where was Jeff Bezos' yacht built?

Koru was built in the Netherlands by Oceanco.

How many crew members are on Jeff Bezos' yacht?

It is not clear how many crew members are on Koru, but it is expected to have a large crew to maintain and operate the yacht.

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Jeff Bezos’ New Yacht Is Finally Ready to Set Sail

Amazon’s founder has been spotted on Koru, a massive schooner with a design that evokes the golden age of sailing in the early 20th century.

By Kevin Koenig

Just in time for the high season of yachting in the Mediterranean, when multimillion-dollar megayachts descend on ports like Monte Carlo and St. Tropez, Jeff Bezos, the founder of Amazon, has been photographed with his partner Lauren Sánchez on his new boat, Koru, off the coast of Spain.

Mr. Bezos’ vessel is a sailing yacht, a departure from the diesel-powered, floating palaces popular with other billionaires. But it is still massive. At 417 feet, Koru is the world’s largest sailing yacht, according to Boat International , and it cost an estimated $500 million to build, Bloomberg reported . (Parsifal III, the boat featured on Bravo’s reality series “Below Deck Sailing Yacht,” is 177 feet long — less than half the length of Koru — and cost $18 million , according to the website SuperYachtFan.)

A spokesperson for Mr. Bezos did not comment for this article; neither did Oceanco, Koru’s builder. Here is what to know about the boat.

For traditionalists, Koru is refreshing. At a time when yacht design skews outrageous — see the lizardlike, 262-foot Artefact or the otherworldly 463-foot Yas — Koru stands out as a schooner, a sailing vessel with two or more masts. Photos reveal a large sailboat with three masts, an on-deck pool and a voluptuous mermaid on the bow, that bears a resemblance to Ms. Sánchez. But otherwise, the sleek, classic lines suggest the patrician age of yachting in the early 20th century, said Robert B. MacKay, author of “The Golden Age of Newport Yachting: Between the Wars.”

“With the clipper bow and the dark hull and the masts,” Mr. MacKay said, referring to Koru’s concave, pointy forward section, “it reminds me of a boat built in 1930 for J.P. Morgan Jr., Corsair IV. It is almost like a reincarnation. It’s certainly at odds with the stuff the oligarchs are building — those look like bloated Clorox bottles.”

Compared with the world’s very largest motor yachts — built for sheer size and the accompanying bragging rights — Koru could almost be considered quaint. Azzam, one of the world’s largest motor yachts, is nearly 200 feet longer.

The Experience

Koru will be propelled primarily by the wind. “Sailboats are usually greener than most powerboats,” said Don Anderson, a former captain of M5 , the world’s largest single-masted sailboat, at 256 feet. “I’d like to think that Koru will be one of the most ecological yachts out there, with its sails and also with the technology that will be aboard.”

“When you’re on a sailboat, you’re more in touch with the wind and the waves than on a powerboat,” he continued. “You’re more susceptible to the elements, too. But you can leave California, and once you get past the Catalinas you can basically surf downwind all the way to Hawaii. All you need to do is run with the waves.”

Mr. Bezos has been a guest on similar boats, according to Bloomberg: In 2019, he was spotted on Eos , a 305-foot sailing yacht owned by Barry Diller and Diane von Furstenberg.

Bill Tripp, a Connecticut-based naval architect, said the appeal of this type of boat is clear: “When you are on a powerboat, you ask, ‘Are we there yet?’ and on a sailboat, you’re enjoying the ride and the ocean so much that you don’t ask that question.”

Koru will be trailed by Abeona, a 246-foot support vessel. Superyachts often have support vessels following along behind them. These “shadows,” as they are colloquially known, are for the “toys” — the ATVs, supercars, seaplanes, motorcycles, smaller boats, scuba gear, personal submarines and even helicopters that pleasure boaters might bring on a trip. According to its builder, this model of boat can carry these gadgets along with dozens of crew members. (Ms. Sanchez flies helicopters, and the couple was recently photographed taking a helicopter to board Abeona and then Koru.)

Abeona, a motor yacht, will have enough range to follow Koru from the Mediterranean to the Caribbean — a common course for yachts — on a single tank of gas.

The Kerfuffle

Koru set off a controversy last year — before it was even completed — in a face-off with the Dutch city of Rotterdam. The boat was built at Oceanco’s facility in Alblasserdam, the Netherlands, and needed to pass the historic Koningshaven Bridge, known as “De Hef,” in Rotterdam, to undergo testing in the North Sea.

When the city announced it would dismantle the bridge to allow the boat and its mainmast — an estimated 230 feet tall — to pass through unscathed, locals were angry. They planned a protest to throw eggs at the yacht as it cruised by. In the end, the bridge was not taken apart, and the yacht was towed to a different location to have its masts attached.

Koru is Maori for “coil” or “loop” and refers to the unfurling of a fern frond. The koru design is common in traditional Maori art, where it symbolizes new life, growth and peace. Mr. Bezos included a photo of a koru frond in an Instagram post on Jan. 1, 2022.

Brad Stone, who was the first to report on Koru, in his 2021 book “Amazon Unbound: Jeff Bezos and the Invention of a Global Empire,” said the name was “consistent with where we see him today.”

“He is no longer this single-minded tech guy,” Mr. Stone said. “He’s in media and Hollywood and has a new relationship.”

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An Inside Look at Jeff Bezos’ $500 Million Superyacht and What It Costs To Keep It Afloat

C liché but true, the second-richest man on the planet, according to Forbes , owns the tallest sailing yacht in the world . In fact, the 417-foot Koru is so big, it has its own 250-foot support vessel .

Priced at $500 million, the Koru hit the sea for the first time in 2023 and has since ferried Jeff Bezos and company around the globe. Complete with three massive 229-foot masts, it can reach a top speed under sail of 20 knots, according to the New York Post — which is approximately 23 miles per hour.

Made for a group, up to 18 guests can set sail on the yacht, allowing Bezos to bring family and friends on vacation with him. Here’s a look at the Koru’s extravagant features and how much it costs to operate his floating mansion.

Also take a look at Bezos’ mansion collection.

See More: Robert Kiyosaki: 7 Ways To Become Wealthy Beyond the 9-to-5

Read Next: 4 Genius Things All Wealthy People Do With Their Money

Key Features

As expected Bezos’ yacht is dripping with luxury. With a net worth of $203.8 billion — as of May 4, 2024, according to Forbes — he can afford to outfit the Koru with nothing but the best and he did just that.

The superyacht has three outdoor decks, with two containing swimming pools, according to the New York Post. It also features a cinema, several lounges and multiple business areas, according to Luxuo .

Highly personalized, the yacht is complete with a figurehead modeled after Bezos’ fiancée Lauren Sanchez. Even its masts are luxurious, as the Amazon founder chose in-boom furlers, which keep the canvases at the bottom of the mast above the deck, creating a pristine and spacious rope-free deck.

For You: Make Yourself Money Smart: 20 ChatGPT Prompts To Increase Your Wealth

Support Vessel

One of the most shocking features of the Koru is the fact that it requires its own support vessel. The $75 million Abeona features a helipad that Sanchez has been spotted using to park her personal helicopter, according to the New York Post.

Designed to carry extra gear, four jet skis, two fast launches and a dinghy were spotted on the Abeona during a 2023 trip to Mallorca, Spain, according to the New York Post. It’s also capable of lifting a small submarine, but Bezos isn’t believed to own one — at least not yet.

Additionally, the support ship has two extra staterooms, which can accommodate four guests. This could come in handy if Bezos wants to entertain a larger group than can fit on the Koru.

On-Board Crew

It probably isn’t a surprise that operating both the Koru and the Abeona is no small task. From staff to drive the boats and maintain them to caring for guests onboard, Bezos needs a small army at sea.

The Koru has a crew of up to 36 people, according to The New York Post. If you think that’s a lot, the Abeona requires up to 45 crew and support staff.

Annual Operating Costs

Purchasing the Koru and Abeona cost Bezos more than half a billion dollars, but his expenses didn’t end there. As you might imagine, the annual cost to maintain a superyacht and its own enormous supporting yacht is more than most people earn in a lifetime.

The Koru costs approximately $25 million in operating expenses per year, according to the Daily Mail . Much less, but still sky-high, Bezos spends around $5 to $10 million on annual maintenance costs for the Abeona, according to Super Yacht Fan ).

When their owners are on dry land, yachts have to find a parking space. However, even this doesn’t always come cheap for Bezos and the Koru.

In November 2023, the billionaire’s yacht arrived in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, but was too big to fit in the port with all the outer superyachts, according to the Daily Mail. Therefore, it had to be docked with cruise ships at Port Everglades, at a rate of $16,500 per week.

While one week of storage might be more than the average person can afford, picking up the tab for any number of weeks would clearly be no issue for Bezos. While his superyacht and the many expenses surrounding it are clearly astronomical, he’s still living well within his budget.

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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com : An Inside Look at Jeff Bezos’ $500 Million Superyacht and What It Costs To Keep It Afloat

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What yachting industry insiders have to say about Jeff Bezos' superyacht

• Jeff Bezos' yacht , which reportedly cost $500 million to build, completed its first year at sea.
• The superyacht, Koru, was a frequent topic of conversation at the Palm Beach boat show.
• Here's what industry insiders think about the vessel.

It's been just about a year since Koru, Jeff Bezos ' $500 million megayacht, set sail from the Oceanco shipyard in the Netherlands, capturing the attention of yachting insiders and land dwellers alike.

Even after her first season at sea, the 127-meter ship is still one of the most talked about vessels among those in the know — and not just for the busty figurehead on its prow, which many have wrongly speculated is based on Bezos's fiancée . Koru was a hot topic at the annual Palm Beach International Boat Show, where the yachts of other billionaires were on display for sale or charter.

The overwhelming response from those Business Insider spoke to was awe, with many praising her unique design, commenting on her immense size, or remarking that they'd been lucky enough to see her up close.

"It's absolutely beautiful," said Federico Rossi, the COO of luxury yachtbuilder Rossinavi.

Still, due to the small size of the industry — and the fact that privacy is paramount in the yachting community — even those who complimented Koru mostly did not want to go on record in order to protect professional relationships.

"That thing's amazing," one such superyacht expert told BI. "It's very well done in terms of craftsmanship."

Unlike many other megayachts, Koru, which media billionaire Barry Diller's Eos inspired, is designed as a sailing yacht. That bucks the current trend of more severe-looking explorer boats — though Koru's 75-meter support vessel Abeona is of a more typical style.

"I heard back in 2018 or something that somebody had ordered a classic sailing yacht," the superyacht expert also told BI. "You order 125 meters, that's not really going to be classic. But it is. I think it's pretty cool."

Like most other megayachts, Koru is powered by her engines, which are reportedly innovative in their use of a kinetic energy recovery system. Industry experts, therefore, pointed out that her sails are more for looks than anything else — but that still works in her favor, with many praising her overall aesthetic appeal.

"It's stunning," added a captain who has worked on several megayachts. He said he'd seen Koru in St. Barts, a favorite spot of Bezos and his fiancée Lauren Sanchez , over the holidays.

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"There are definitely uglier boats out there," one yacht architect said. "It's not like it's shaped like his rocket," he jokily added, referring to the phallic design of Blue Origin's New Shephard .

Some, though, think the yacht is a bit excessive — which is saying something in a world where bigger is better and $250 million is a normal amount to spend.

"That's over the top. That's an insanely ridiculous boat," a longtime broker who favors discretion said. It's a "whole big show."

And the expert who praised the yacht's craftsmanship balanced his admiring comments by saying Koru's liberal use of teak — a wood traditionally used for yacht decks — was "bizarre."

The material has gained a bad reputation in the industry in recent years, as it typically comes from Myanmar, a country with a checkered human rights record. Plus, it takes a long time to grow, leading to deforestation.

Many shipyards have now turned to alternatives, like bamboo or plantation-grown teak, in their pushes toward sustainability. Bezos' team did not respond to BI's question about the origin of the deck's wood.

Teak or not, the yachting industry isn't generally known for being all that environmentally friendly — or indeed lowkey, so many who BI talked to didn't buy into the idea that Koru is "too much."

"If this is genuinely Jeff's dream come true, then great," Anders Kurtén, the CEO of brokerage Fraser Yachts, said. "I'm genuinely happy for him, and I'm happy for the people who got the opportunity to have employment to work on that."

And Bezos, of course, isn't the only billionaire with a stunning yacht . Billionaires like Jerry Jones and Bernard Arnault have also, at times, turned heads with their boats.

Most recently, insiders have tied Mark Zuckerberg to a 118-meter ship named Launchpad . It's the latest superyacht to capture the yachting world's attention.

So, as she sets sail for her debut summer season, Launchpad may take Koru's place as the main yacht on everyone's radar this year.

Watch: Inside the world's biggest cruise ship that just set sail

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Bezos' Wait Is Over — World's Largest Superyacht Worth $500 Million Finally Delivered To Amazon Founder

Zinger key points.

• Koru cost $500 million, while its annual operating cost is estimated to be around $25 million.
• The vessel was commissioned by Jeff Bezos, whose net worth is the third-highest in the world.

Amazon founder  Jeff Bezos  has finally gotten his pricey, luxurious superyacht that has been catching eyes. 

What Happened: The superyacht, which was reportedly priced at $500 million and ordered by Bezos, was handed to its new owner on Thursday, Business Insider reported, citing yachting publication Boat International.

The vessel, otherwise known as Koru, is 127 meters long, the world’s largest sailing yacht and the largest one built in the Netherlands, according to Boat International. 

Sea trials of the vessel had been taking place since February, marking the final phases of construction. Construction of the yacht, which previously went by the code name Y721, took about five years. 

See Also: How To Invest In Startups

At one point last year, Oceano, the Dutch custom yacht builder responsible for Koru, found itself mired in controversy when it requested the dismantling of a historic bridge in Rotterdam to allow for Koru’s three tall masts to pass under the bridge. Locals protested against the dismantling, forcing Oceano to tow the boat under the cover of night to another shipyard without its masts. The masts were installed later.

In early March, reports had suggested the yacht was ready to set sail en route to its new owner.

The yacht is reportedly the tallest in the world, with a height of 230 feet, and requires a crew of 40 sailors to operate. Apart from its $500 million price tag, it also involves an annual operating cost of $25 million.

Why It's Important: Bezos, who stepped down as Amazon's CEO but continues to be the e-commerce retailer's executive chairman, is the world’s third-richest man with a net worth of around $125.1 billion, according to Forbes.

The Amazon founder is well known as the partying type — in 2022, he and his girlfriend Lauren Sanchez welcomed the new year on a $42,000 per week superyacht in the Caribbean.

Read Next:  Construction Of Jeff Bezos' Beverly Hills Megamansion Stalled Following Attempt To Expand Property

© 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.

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$500m price tag and bronze statue similar to his girlfriend: What we know about Jeff Bezos’s wild superyacht

‘koru’ superyacht comes complete with figurehead that looks similar to amazon founder’s girlfriend. meredith clark writes.

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Jeff Bezos and his girlfriend Lauren Sanchez have been spotted relaxing on the Amazon founder’s new superyacht, which is reportedly worth almost $500m.

The 59-year-old billionaire was photographed aboard the 417-foot-long vessel as it set sail along the coast of Spain on Monday, 15 May.

The couple’s maiden voyage comes nearly five years after the vessel was first commissioned in 2018 for half a billion dollars. The yacht – named the Koru after the Maori word for “new beginnings” – comes complete with three decks and a pool.

In photos obtained by the Daily Mail , Bezos was seen shirtless on the megayacht’s sundeck, while Sanchez was dressed in a pink bikini and white cover-up as the pair enjoyed the sunshine.

Bezos reportedly arrived to his yacht via helicopter, making use of the vessel’s helipad, after being flown to Mallorca on a private jet.

The 250-foot tall boat even came equipped with a figurehead that bore a striking resemblance to Bezo’s 53-year-old girlfriend. The polished wooden sculpture, which sits at the prow of the yacht, depicts a woman carved in the style of a Roman goddess, complete with long hair and a flowing gown.

Koru, previously known as Y721, is the tallest sailing yacht in the world with three masts measuring more than 230 feet, according to Boat International . It reportedly cost Bezos $485m.

The boat’s exterior has a classic design of a black hull with a white superstructure. Although the brand-new vessel doesn’t come with a helipad, the Amazon founder reportedly purchased a support yacht, worth $75m specifically to land his helicopter.

The Koru was constructed by Dutch yacht maker Oceano near Rotterdam in the Netherlands. It caused quite a scandal in February 2022 when the vessel nearly required the historic Koningshaven Bridge to be dismantled because its masts were too tall to pass under the bridge.

Indeed, the vessel is officially the tallest yacht in the world, standing at more than 230ft (70m), and is the length of four blue whales at 416ft (127m) - one of just four yachst in the world to boast a length of greater than 100m.

When Oceanco requested the city of Rotterdam dismantle the 100-year-old bridge – known to locals as “De Hef” – outraged citizens planned to throw rotten eggs at the superyacht. The yacht maker rescinded its request and ultimately hauled the 417-foot vessel to a separate shipyard to install the masts.

The clever design of the three masts, which see the yacht powered by kinetic energy, mean Bezos does not need an entire crew to staff the vessel - instead the Koru can be manned by one person (although no doubt the billionaire will have staff on hand for more of his voyages).

Guests visiting Bezos aboard his new superyacht are able to arrive via helicopter thanks to the vessel’s helipad, while other transport on board includes a fleet of cars, jetskis and smaller speedboats.

The yacht reportedly costs $25m a year to maintain, according to Page Six , but Bezos has more than enough money to cover the maintenance – his net worth is an estimated $141bn.

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Jeff Bezos' $500-Million Yacht Hits the Open Ocean for the First Time

Once it's ready, this 417-foot boat will be the largest sailing vessel in the world..

Jeff Bezos’ giant 417-foot long sailing yacht stretched its legs on the open ocean this week, still completely free of a coating of eggs Rotterdam residents once promised the world’s largest sailing vessel.

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Yacht builders Oceanco referred to the $500-million sailing yacht by its internal serial name — Y721 — during its yearslong development and manufacturing process. The vessel can now be called by the name granted to it by its mega-rich owner: the Koru. A Koru is a Māori symbol representing the spiral of an unfurling fern frond.

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“Its circular shape conveys the idea of perpetual movement, and its inward coil suggests a return to the point of origin. The koru therefore symbolises the way in which life both changes and stays the same,” according to a definition from the government of New Zealand .

Once delivered to Amazon mogul Jeff Bezos, the Koru will be the largest sailing vessel in the world. It’s currently undergoing open-seas testing phase, which is consider one of the final steps before delivery. The big boat enthusiast YouTube channel Dutch Yachting published footage of the testing earlier this week:

Koru had a controversial start in life after Oceanco petitioned the Rotterdam government for the ability to dismantle a historic bridge in order to get the yacht to open water. The city council in Rotterdam vowed never allow another dismantling of the Koningshavenbrug bridge, however, after it came down for a during renovations in 2017. Known locally as De Hef, the bridge was heavily damaged by Nazi shelling in WWII but managed to survive. It became a symbol for local resistance against the invading forces.

When news spread that the bridge might need to be dismantled, angry Dutch people responded by vowing to launch eggs at the yacht as it passed through town. The nearly 3,000 people who signed up for the dairy aisle hi jinx needn’t have worried, however; the Rotterdam city council denied Oceanco’s petition and the boat was moved to a different shipyard with without its masts early in the morning.

Watch: Jeff Bezos’ $500 million sailing megayacht Koru looks humungous as it begins sea trials in the Netherlands

Jeff Bezos’ $500 million sailing megayacht Koru has finally begun sea trials, which takes the 127-meter luxury vessel a step closer to becoming the world’s second yacht sailing yacht, after Andrey Melnichenko’s Sailing Yacht A. A YouTube video posted by Dutch Yachting shows the megayacht going through the preliminary set of tests on the first day of its sea trials. Sea trials of a newly built ship are important to ensure the overall safety of the ship and detect issues before the final handover. The video begins with footage of the vessel being towed out to open waters before sunrise on a misty morning. Subsequently, megayacht Koru then starts with the battery tests under its own power, doing 180-degree turns and conducting turning circle tests. Interestingly, this is the first time the gigantic luxury vessel has been captured on video moving with the help of its own powertrain.

While sailing yacht Koru’s three huge masts were steeped last summer when it was taken out of its dry dock, the sails are yet to be unfurled, which is expected to be done over the next few days during its sea trials. With the sails unfurled, the three-mast schooner will be a sight to behold. The YouTube video also includes drone footage of the luxury megayacht, which gives us a glimpse of some of its amenities that are visible on the outside. The vessel boasts three enormous decks and at least two sizeable dip pools. Koru features a navy hull with red bootstripe and a white superstructure decked out in varnished wood. Its beautiful shape is characterized by a long bowsprit and a classic canoe stern.

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Ex-Google CEO Eric Schmidt raised millions for a children’s charity by donating his $156 million Whisper superyacht for a seven-night voyage. The kind-hearted billionaire has also included fine wine worth thousands for the six couples that will cruise the Mediterranean on his 312′ vessel.

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Has the World Finally Had a Glimpse of Jeff Bezos’s $500 Million Mega-Yacht?

Amazon founder Jeff Bezos is appears to be getting closer to welcoming the superyacht he reportedly commissioned in 2018: a fancy toy fitting for the world’s second-richest person, given that it costs a reported $500 million and breaks one world record after another.

Called Y721, this vessel of all vessels is being custom designed by Dutch builder Oceanco and was spotted at a shipyard last week in Zwijndrecht, a town in the western Netherlands. It’s reportedly heading to another Netherlands town, Alblasserdam, for a final fitting. With a length of 417 feet, Y721 is the biggest sailing yacht in the world and the longest vessel to be built in the Netherlands. Features include a black hull, classic shape, three large decks, and three masts.

Superyacht Bravo Eugenia , belonging to the U.S. billionaire Jerry Jones, owner of the Dallas Cowboys, was built by Oceanco, which is also rumored to be behind Bezos’s new massive vessel.

Y721 is going to totally change the world of yachting with its design and innovation, says Fernando Nicholson, a luxury yacht sales broker with the yachting company Camper & Nicholsons. “It’s a boat with the latest technology and bells and whistles that have never been seen,” he says. “This will be the standard for all superyachts to follow, but in years to come, when its features become more affordable. Right now, only someone with Bezos’s wealth can swing the cost.”

The superyacht is said to be modeled after Oceanco’s famous yacht, the Black Pearl , which the company site says , “is one of the largest and most ecological sailing yachts in the world. She can cross the Atlantic without burning even a liter of fossil fuel.” Y721 will go through sea trails following its fitting-out in Alblasserdam and is expected to be ready sometime next year.

The Flying Fox , allegedly owned by Bezos.

However, it’s only one of two new boats for Bezos: He has also commissioned a shadow vessel called YS 7512 from builder Damen Yachts. This support ship measures 246 feet in length and accommodates 45 additional crew and guests. It will also feature a helipad and meeting space and have a vast amount of storage for Bezos’s endless number of water toys, with diving and snorkeling gear, jet and water skis, waterslides, and surfboards among the bunch. Shadow vessels are a growing phenomenon in the superyacht industry and one more extra toy that their owners want to have at the ready, says Nicholson. “You see them more and more now as an add-on to a superyacht purchase,” he says. “They’ve almost become a must.”

There’s no doubt that Bezos will be sailing the high seas in full panache and style come 2022. But really, is there any other way when you have more money than almost anyone else in the world and attract an endless amount of attention too?

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Jeff bezos buys $500m superyacht amid luxury industry boom.

Amazon founder Jeff Bezos will reportedly soon take delivery of a $500 million mega-yacht — proof that the niche industry for billionaires is in its prime.

The world’s richest man — currently worth $191 billion — is expected to soon get his project Y721 yacht, which is due to be finished next month, years after he ordered it, according to Bloomberg Wealth .

While details are mostly being kept under wraps, the vessel will be 417 feet long, span several decks and have three huge masts — and even have its own support yacht with a helipad, according to the outlet.

It will likely cost at least $500 million, and is one of the largest sailing yachts ever built in the Netherlands, the unofficial capital of boat-building for the uber-rich, Bloomberg said.

The price tag may be nothing for Bezos, who has been photographed numerous times on yachting trips with girlfriend Lauren Sanchez .

But it is a symbol of the secretive boat-building industry that is thriving like never before — thanks largely to the COVID-19 pandemic making many of the world’s wealthiest even richer , Bloomberg’s analysis showed.

“The market’s been roaring,” Sam Tucker, head of superyacht research at London-based VesselsValue, told the outlet.

Recent transactions have been “record-breaking” — and “the second-hand market is absolutely red hot.”

“It’s impossible to get a slot in a new-build yard,” Tucker said. “They’re totally booked.”

Yacht builders initially feared a slowdown when the pandemic started — but were instead overwhelmed by orders as the world’s richest people added $1.8 trillion to their collective fortune, Bloomberg reported.

Life at sea is attractive for many now that glitzy social events are canceled on land and celebrities and influencers often get ripped for overindulgences in the public eye.

While Bezos ordered Y721 before the pandemic started, he is one of those who has profited most from people around the world turning to Amazon to shop during the pandemic.

Still, he may want to stay humble about his amazing new purchase, Bloomberg said, noting how fellow billionaire David Geffen was ripped for flaunting his pandemic life on his own superyacht, Rising Sun.

Oceanco, the Dutch yachtmaker responsible for Y721, declined to comment, Bloomberg said.

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Disney Wins Property Lawsuit, Resulting in Nearly $100 Million Settlement Impacting Public Schools

in Walt Disney World

Walt Disney World Resort has won a long-lasting lawsuit impacting Orange County public schools.

But before we jump into that, let’s see how The Walt Disney Company has dealt with lawsuits in the past.

Disney Is Not New to Lawsuits

Walt Disney World Resort, a beloved destination for millions, has encountered its fair share of legal challenges throughout history. The theme park has been the subject of numerous lawsuits, ranging from personal injury claims to labor disputes. While these legal issues can sometimes tarnish its reputation, Disney employs a robust legal framework to ensure professionalism and compliance with the law.

One of the most notable aspects of Disney’s approach to legal challenges is its emphasis on risk management . The company has a dedicated legal team that actively works to minimize potential liabilities. This team assesses attractions, entertainment, and operational procedures to identify potential risks before they escalate into legal disputes.

By fostering a culture of safety and compliance, Disney seeks to protect its guests and employees while mitigating the risk of litigation. When faced with lawsuits, Disney typically opts for a strategy emphasizing resolution and negotiation rather than aggressive litigation. The company recognizes that public perception is crucial to its brand image.

Therefore, resolving disputes amicably can often prevent negative media coverage and restore goodwill among its guests. Disney frequently engages in mediation or settlement negotiations, which allows both parties to reach an agreement without the prolonged scrutiny of a public trial. Moreover, Disney’s legal team ensures that all operations adhere to industry regulations and standards.

This includes regular audits and compliance checks across various departments. By staying informed about changes in laws and regulations, Disney can adapt its policies accordingly, ensuring that the company remains on the right side of the law. In addition to these measures, Disney also invests heavily in employee training .

Staff members are educated on legal protocols, safety procedures , and guest relations, which fosters a professional environment that prioritizes both guest safety and legal compliance. By instilling a sense of responsibility among employees, Disney enhances its operational professionalism and cultivates a culture where legal adherence is a shared value.

The House of Mouse Wins Major Lawsuit Against Orange County Public Schools

In summary, while Disney World has faced numerous lawsuits over the years, the company’s proactive measures—ranging from risk management and conflict resolution to stringent compliance and employee training—underscore its commitment to professionalism and legal adherence. This multifaceted approach protects the company’s reputation and reinforces its dedication to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all guests.

Walt Disney World has recently celebrated a significant legal victory, winning a years-long lawsuit that could entitle the company to recover up to $80 million in tax refunds from the Orange County Public Schools. The lawsuit centered around overvaluing property taxes on Disney’s resorts and other properties, mainly the Yacht & Beach Club hotel and convention center.

According to a report from the Orlando Sentinel , the ruling by Judge Thomas W. Turner declared that the previous assessments made by then-Orange County Property Appraiser Rick Singh were “unconstitutional and invalid.”

The controversy arose when Singh’s assessments attributed excessive value to Disney’s property by factoring in intangible assets like the value of the Disney brand, its managerial capabilities, and the workforce. As a result, the assessed value of the Yacht & Beach Club surged by 118% within a single year, prompting Disney to initiate annual lawsuits against the sitting property appraiser. This tradition has continued since 2015.

Although the latest ruling pertains explicitly to tax years 2015 and 2016, the underlying arguments regarding illegal value determination have informed subsequent lawsuits. In 2023 alone, Disney filed a dozen lawsuits against the Orange County Property Appraiser, challenging inflated assessed values across its theme parks and hotels.

Following Singh’s departure in 2020, Amy Mercado took over but continued to use a methodology that Disney contends perpetuates overcharging. Despite Mercado’s defense that the earlier adjustments were justified due to years of artificially low assessments, Disney remains committed to contesting these valuations.

Currently, the exact amount of the potential refund is still being calculated. Still, Scott Randolph, the current Orange County Property Appraiser, estimates that Disney could recover approximately $2 million for the Yacht & Beach Club alone. If the ruling’s implications extend to Disney World’s properties, the total could escalate to $80 million or more, especially if it applies retroactively to prior years. Complications arise regarding which entities will be responsible for providing these refunds.

Most of the improperly collected funds have gone to the Orange County Public Schools. Florida law stipulates that commercial property tax assessments cannot increase by more than 10% annually unless the assessing authority is a school district. Thus, the schools could be liable for a substantial portion of the refunds.

Randolph has been proactive in notifying school officials about the potential financial repercussions, and it’s reported that the school system has been setting aside funds in anticipation of a likely unfavorable outcome.

The improperly collected property taxes could be significant enough to construct three new elementary schools. The issue of Disney’s property taxes became a contentious topic, especially following Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’s takeover of the former Reedy Creek Improvement District. DeSantis and Central Florida Tourism Oversight District members previously claimed that Disney was not contributing its fair share in taxes.

However, it’s essential to recognize that Disney met its tax obligations and was subjected to inflated assessments. In fiscal year 2022 alone, Disney reported paying $1.1 billion in state and local taxes, underscoring the complexity of the tax dispute and the ongoing impact of this legal battle on the theme park giant.

What are your thoughts on this most recent lawsuit win for the House of Mouse?  Sound off in the comments below, and let Inside The Magic know. 

Appellate judges skeptical of New York civil fraud case against Donald Trump

Republican presidential nominee and former U.S. president Donald Trump speaks during a campaign event on Sept. 25 in Mint Hill, N.C. Evan Vucci/The Associated Press

Appeals court judges signalled skepticism on Thursday toward the civil fraud case brought by New York State against Donald Trump as the former president asked them to toss a nearly half-billion dollar judgment against him over real estate business practices that a judge declared fraudulent.

Justice Arthur Engoron in February ordered Trump, the Republican candidate in the Nov. 5 U.S. presidential election, to pay $454.2 million in penalties and interest for inflating his net worth to dupe lenders and insurers into giving him better terms. The civil case was brought by New York State Attorney General Letitia James.

Members of the five-judge panel on the Appellate Division – the mid-level state appellate court hearing arguments in Trump’s appeal – appeared concerned about possible overreach by James.

They asked what constraints applied to the law James cited in bringing the case – one that is typically used to go after fraudsters who target vulnerable consumers.

“How do we draw a line or at least put up guardrails? Justice Peter Moulton asked.

Deputy Solicitor General Judith Vale, arguing for the state, said the statute – known as Executive Law 63(12) – is broadly aimed at stopping fraud and illegality, and was therefore appropriate in Trump’s case.

Justice David Friedman pressed Vale on whether there was any precedent for the attorney general suing over transactions involving sophisticated parties where neither “lost any money.”

“Every case that you cite involves damage to consumers, damage to the marketplace. … We don’t have anything like that here,” Friedman said.

The case stemmed from Trump’s leadership of his family real estate company, the Trump Organization, before he became president in 2017.

Trump’s lawyer John Sauer told the judges that the case was brought too late and that it would be unfair to impose a “crippling financial penalty” for the former president’s decades-old financial statements, which Engoron found were illegally inflated.

“This case involves a clear-cut violation of the statute of limitations and relevant case law,” Sauer said.

Sauer also said that trial testimony showed that any discrepancies in Trump’s net worth were irrelevant to his lenders.

“What is not disputed is the testimony that if the net worth had been as low as one million (dollars), the deal would’ve been exactly the same,” Sauer said. Sauer added that none of Trump’s lenders and business partners were harmed by the discrepancies on the financial statements, an argument Trump’s lawyers have made throughout the case.

“There were no victims, no complaints,” Sauer said.

Two of the judges interrupted Vale’s opening statement to ask if there were any other examples of the state suing over private business transactions between sophisticated parties under a law aimed at protecting market integrity.

“When risk is injected into the market, that does hurt the counterparties and it does hurt the market as a whole,” Vale replied.

Engoron’s ruling poses a threat to the business empire Trump has built over decades, which includes hotels, office buildings and golf courses around the world. With interest continuing to accrue, Trump now owes $478.3 million.

The case is one of a number of legal entanglements Trump has faced since leaving the White House in 2021. He owes nearly $90 million in federal civil penalties for defaming a writer who accused him of sexual abuse, and was convicted in May on criminal charges stemming from hush money paid to a porn star.

Trump has denied all wrongdoing and has said the cases were brought to interfere with his campaign. A Reuters/Ipsos poll on Tuesday showed Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic candidate, leading Trump 47%-40% nationwide, though the state-by-state results of the Electoral College determine the winner.

In a brief submitted in July to the Appellate Division, Trump’s lawyers said that the financial statements he submitted to banks actually understated his wealth, and there was no indication that any of the lenders suffered losses.

The lawyers also accused James, a Democrat, of targeting a political adversary.

In September 2023, before a three-month trial with no jury, Engoron found Trump liable for lying about his asset values and net worth for a decade. The judge took particular issue with Trump’s claim that his Manhattan penthouse apartment was 30,000 square feet (2,787 square meters), nearly three times its real size.

The trial focused solely on penalties. In addition to the financial penalties, Engoron banned Trump from serving in a top role at any New York company, or seeking loans from banks registered in the state, for three years.

Trump in April averted possible asset seizures in the case by posting a $175 million bond while he appeals.

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