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OCTOPUS Yacht for Charter

2006 / 2021

Overview | Exterior | Interior | Accommodation | Photos | Layout | Price

OCTOPUS Yacht Price

Charter rates, summer: east & west med.

From: 2,200,000€ p/week

Winter: N/A

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Contact our charter brokers about chartering this yacht. 

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OCTOPUS Yacht – $285M Superyacht For Charter

Measuring in at an impressive length of 126.2 meters the OCTOPUS yacht is the 21st largest yacht in the world.

With an estimated worth of $285 million, her owner is currently unknown.

This stunning vessel can comfortably accommodate up to 26 guests while having a crew of 57 on hand to cater to their needs.

Powered by Mercedes Diesel engines she can reach speeds up to 20 knots.

OCTOPUS yacht interior

The OCTOPUS yacht inter offers space for up to 26 guests in 13 cabins, including a spacious owner’s cabin and deck.

A well-trained crew of up to 63 crew members provides 5-star service onboard this luxury vessel.

OCTOPUS’ interior has several bars distributed across the different decks, a fully equipped spa, a cinema, a gym, a library, and even a basketball court.

The interior was designed by Jonathan Quinn Barnett, a well-known superyacht designer from Seattle, Washington.

OCTOPUS Boat Specifications

With a length of 126.20 meters (414 ft) and a beam of 21 meters (68 ft), the OCTOPUS yacht weighs in at an impressive 9,900 gross tons.

She is powered by 8 MTU engines producing a total of 19,200 hp (14,300 kW).

Her maximum speed lies at 19 knots, while her relatively slow cruising speed of 12 knots allows her to have a range of 12,500 nautical miles.

OCTOPUS is also equipped with the latest anchor and steering technology, which helps to maneuver the vessel.

OCTOPUS yacht has two helipads, one at the stern with its own hangar and one at the bow.

She has a total of seven tenders, one of which is 13 meters long and can almost be considered its own yacht.

The OCTOPUS superyacht also has two submarines on board, one of which is remotely controlled while the other can accommodate eight people.

The internal dock of the megayacht can be used to dry lay vessels of up to 20 meters for possible repairs. The mega yacht also has a large pool on deck as well as a jacuzzi and a spacious beach club.

The onboard elevator system ensures that guests and crew can move quickly between the eight decks.

For the entertainment of the guests, the yacht carries scuba diving equipment, jet skis, and other water toys.

OCTOPUS Price & Charter

The former owner of the OCTOPUS superyacht paid a price of US $200 million for the yacht in 2003 and she generates annual running costs between US $20 and 35 million.

As of 2022, OCTOPUS is available for charter for the first time ever since her launch. She costs approximately 2.2 Million Euro’s per week.

In 2022 in Summer she will be available in Central America and the Pacific while in Winter she will be in Antarctica.

For 2023 she will be located in the Mediterranean and the weekly rate is expected to remain the same.

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• Impressions

One of the largest and most spectacular examples of a full-fledged yachting and exploration vessel, 126-meter Octopus is equipped with highly sophisticated technology. Espen Øino International designed the striking exterior with a blue and white hull and superstructure, featuring two helipads and a hangar aft. The superyacht is capable of exploration and scientific research voyages requiring months at sea. One of her key features is an integrated dock for both the principal 20-meter guest tender and two submarines for exploring marine life, one of which is remotely controlled for reaching greater depths. Octopus also houses a professional music studio and a grandiose cinema, created by interior designer Jonathan Quinn Barnett.

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Yacht Charter

Widely regarded as one of the most iconic and versatile superyachts in the world, OCTOPUS is available for exclusive private charters and unrivaled adventures.

Charter price from

$2,200,000 PER WEEK

Specifications

Key Features

• 13 cabins, including master suite with a luxurious ensuite, observation lounge and private elevator, two VIP apartments, seven double and three twin staterooms
• Aquarium with glass-bottomed underwater observation
• Two helipads
• Bar, spa pool and pizza oven on the entertainment deck
• Wellness area including spa and gym
• Extensive range of toys including seven tenders, an ROV, her own marina, and fully kitted out dive center and hyperbaric chamber
• Heated freshwater swimming pool with a retractable glass floor
• Observation deck
• Dining and library space

About OCTOPUS

At the time of her launch in 2003, OCTOPUS was the largest explorer yacht ever built, revolutionizing the world of yacht expeditions. Previously used as base for explorers, OCTOPUS boasts an impressive history of maritime discoveries, including the long-lost wreck of Japan’s biggest battleship from the Second World War in the Philippines.

Now available for exclusive private charters for up to 12 guests across 13 palatial cabins, OCTOPUS epitomizes luxury yacht travel. At over 400 feet long, guests can delight in this relaxing haven spread across 8 decks, with opulent interiors and sleek outdoor spaces designed with the utmost care by Espen Oeino. The extensive crew of 42 will ensure a remarkable, once-in-a-lifetime stay with excellent service of the highest caliber.

OCTOPUS is truly a yacht without boundaries. Complete with two helipads and an ice-class hull perfect for reaching even the most inaccessible and remote spots, she also boasts seven tenders and her own marina with a full diving center. Guests won’t be short of entertainment onboard with a dedicated cinema and impressive freshwater swimming pool at the heart of the outdoor bar space. Relax in the spa and wellness area or admire the marine life swimming below your feet in the glass-bottomed aquarium.

Tenders & Toys

1 x 18.10m Delta 54′

1 x Custom Vikal International Limousine Tender 9.34m, 2x260hp

2 x Zodiac Milpro MK V Inflatable Heavy Duty 5.8m with Volvo Aquatic Duoprop-drives 70hp 

1 x Zodiac Milpro Custom Dive Tender 8.7m “Dive Zodiac” 

1 x Zodiac Marine Custom Guest Tender 8.7m “Owners Zodiac”

1 x Zodiac Marine RIB 4.7m

4 x Yamaha FX140 Waverunners

2 x Yamaha Superjet 2021 Stand up jet skis

2 x Hobie Pursuit 2-man kayak

2 x Hobie Pursuit 1-man kayak

2 x Epic V5 1 man kayak

3 x Surfboards

2 x Wakeboards

3 x Windsurf Beginner to Intermediate

1 x Windsurf Freeride Advance, Windsurf sails 3,7/4,7/5,7/7,3

2 x SUP Cruiser

2 x SUP Surf

Large selection of kite surfboards, harnesses and sails: 

1 x Electric Foil Flightboard Air x 1 All Riders (good for beginners)

1 x Electric Foil Flightboard Pro x 2 

Inflatable assorted water toys

Assorted fishing rods, reels, lures and accessories

Fully equipped for diving with all sizes of regulators, tanks, BCDs, wetsuits, find and additional specialized equipment (full dive inventory upon request)

Cruising Locations

Northern Europe, Svalbard, Greenland (2024)

French Polynesia (2025)

Antarctica (December - late February)

Charter Prices

From 2,200,000 USD per week

Why we love it

OCTOPUS is a truly iconic vessel and one of the most impressive motor yachts on the charter market today. Her endless array of features including her unique glass-bottomed aquarium and vast collection of water toys make her the ideal vessel for even the most remote and secluded locations.

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PLANNING YOUR EXPERIENCE

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weekly rates from $2,200,000

• Yachts for Charter

OCTOPUS Yacht for Charter

Performance

With a steel hull and superstructure, OCTOPUS is designed to travel around the globe. She can comfortably cruise at 17 knots with maximum speeds of 19 knots. When fully fueled, she can cruise for 12,500 nautical miles, allowing you to visit far-off, exotic locales.

Accommodation

Octopus provides accommodation for up to 12 guests in 13 suites, which include a master suite and twelve double cabins. If you’re looking for the most ROI on your master suite, you’ve chosen the perfect vessel. This spacious, luxurious bedroom features a his-and-her bathroom.

With 42 crew members on board, no need or want will go unaddressed. 

Comfort & Entertainment

OCTOPUS embodies luxury, glamor, excitement, and entertainment. With a dance floor, movie theater, sauna, spa, swimming pool, beach club, and more, you’ll always find something to do. 

Book Your Charter Aboard OCTOPUS Today

Ready to set sail to the hidden oases and crowning jewels scattered across the globe? Then don’t wait; book your charter aboard OCTOPUS with Northrop & Johnson today.

• Luxurious amenities like a dance floor, movie theater and spa
• Ability to travel to far flung locations
• Vast owner's deck, including a bar, Jacuzzi and private elevator
• Glass-bottomed observation lounge
• Beautiful interiors with 13 guest suites

Charter Details

• Swimming Pool
• Personal Watercraft
• At-Anchor Stabilizers

For a full list of all available amenities & entertainment facilities, or price to hire additional equipment please inquire.

Accommodations

Specifications

Toys & Tenders

• 1 x Custom Vikal International Limousine Tender 9.34m, 2x260hp
• 2 x Zodiac Milpro MK V Inflatable Heavy Duty 5.8m with Volvo Aquamatic Duoprop-drives 70hp
• 1 x Zodiac Milpro Custom Dive Tender 8.7m “Dive Zodiac”
• 1 x Zodiac Marine Custom Guest Tender 8.7m “Owners Zodiac”
• 1 x Zodiac Marine RIB 4.7m
• 4 x Yamaha FX140 Waverunners
• 2 x Yamaha Superjet 2021 Stand up Jet skis
• 4 x F5S Seabobs
• 2 x Hobie Pursuit 2-man kayak
• 2 x Hobie Pursuit 1-man kayak
• 2 x Epic V5 1 man kayak
• 3 x Surfboards
• 2 x Wakeboards
• 3 x Windsurf Beginner to Intermediate
• 1 x Windsurf Freeride advance, Windsurf sails 3,7/4,7/5,7/7,3
• 2 x SUP Cruiser
• 2 x SUP Surf
• Large selection of Kite surfboards, harnesses and sails
• 1x Electric Foil Flightboard Air x 1 All Riders ( good for beginners)
• 1x Electric Foil Flightboard Pro x 2
• Inflatable assorted water toys
• Assorted fishing rods, reels, lures and accessories
• Fully equipped for diving with all sizes of regulators, tanks, BCD's, wetsuits, find and additional specialised equipment ( full dive inventory upon request)

Summer Rates

2024 Season. Rates p/week + expenses

$ 2,200,000

Winter Rates

2024/2025 Season. Rates p/week + expenses

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© 2024 Northrop & Johnson

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Inside the Octopus, the Luxury 414-Foot Superyacht With a Submarine

You might have thought the coronavirus pandemic—or perhaps the billionaires' space race —would have distracted the super-wealthy from shopping for shiny baubles. Not when it comes to luxury yachts , according to Boat International .

The industry magazine reported last December that 1,024 were being built or had been ordered—an increase of almost 25 percent on the previous year's numbers. If you were to line up the vessels set to be delivered by 2026, there would be more than 24 miles of them.

Among them is the REV Ocean , a research and expedition vessel commissioned by Norwegian billionaire Kjell Inge Røkke. It will be 182.9 meters (600 feet) in length—longer than the current biggest superyacht in the world, Azzam, which is owned by the ruler of Abu Dhabi.

Ocean is expected to be launched in 2024 and will be available for charter part time, when it's not conducting scientific research. If you're interested in chartering a yacht now, though, what's the biggest one you can get?

The Three Largest Yachts You Can Charter

Some of the billionaires who commission superyachts prefer not to make their favorite toys available to the public. But there are plenty of large and lavish vessels you can charter for a princely sum. The top three, according to Jacqui Lockhart, Europe head of charter marketing for luxury yacht firm Camper & Nicholsons, are:

• Flying Fox from Imperial Yachts, 136 meters (446 feet)
• Octopus from Camper & Nicholsons, 126.2 meters (414 feet)
• Lana from Imperial Yachts, 107 meters (351 feet)

Lockhart told Newsweek that Octopus has only recently become available for charter. It was built for Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, who died in 2018 . The vessel was sold by Allen's estate last year and its new owner is reportedly Swedish billionaire Roger Samuelsson.

"She came on the market at the end of last year," Lockhart said. "I was just recently on board the Octopus in Panama. I have to admit, I've never seen anything like it in all my years in yachting."

Inside the Octopus

For years after its launch in 2003, the Octopus was off limits to everyone but Allen and his guests. Now anyone who wants to charter the megayacht, built by the German company Lürssen, can do so—as long as they can pay upwards of $2.2 million per week. For that sum, you and 11 other guests can enjoy eight decks of extravagant amenities including:

• Seven tenders
• Two helipads
• A submarine for underwater exploration
• An oceanographic hub for "explorers searching for lost shipwrecks and maritime artefacts"
• On-deck swimming pool
• Gym and wellness area
• Observation lounge
• A glass-bottomed aquarium

The accommodation includes a master suite (with private elevator and observation deck), two VIP apartments, seven double bedrooms and three twin staterooms.

"She has a ratio of 12 guests for just over 42 crew, which is quite exceptional," said Lockhart. "It's just the perfect yacht for exploration. She was built for cruising and exploration. She's been set up to be self-sufficient to go to remote areas, which is quite special."

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The Camper & Nicholsons website states that the Octopus has a maximum speed of roughly 19 knots and an ice-class hull. This means it can be chartered for winter cruises to Antarctica —an option that is increasingly popular, according to Lockhart.

"Certainly the larger yachts are more open to doing more extensive cruising and more remote destinations. Clients seem to want to be able to take their families to go to these destinations," she said.

More Megayachts

The largest yacht available for charter is the Flying Fox , according to Lockhart. The 136-meter vessel can accommodate up to 25 guests in 11 cabins, all of which have private sea-view terraces.

Flying Fox , which was built by Lürssen and launched in 2019, has amenities including a 12-meter swimming pool, a two-story spa and a professional diving center. Chartering it will cost upwards of $3.2 million a week from Imperial Yachts.

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No 3 on the list is Imperial's Lana . Built by Italian company Benetti and launched in 2020, Lana can house up to 12 guests and costs upwards of $1.9 million per week.

Newsweek has reached out to Imperial Yachts for comment.

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Motor Yacht

Octopus is a 126.20m (414.04ft) motor yacht, custom built in 2003 and last refitted in 2008.

One of the largest and most spectacular examples of a full-fledged yachting and exploration vessel, 126-meter Octopus is equipped with highly sophisticated technology.

Espen Øino International designed the striking exterior with a blue and white hull and superstructure, featuring two helipads and a hangar aft.

The superyacht is capable of exploration and scientific research voyages requiring months at sea. One of her key features is an integrated dock for both the principal 20-meter guest tender and two submarines for exploring marine life, one of which is remotely controlled for reaching greater depths.

Octopus also houses a professional music studio and a grandiose cinema, created by interior designer Jonathan Quinn Barnett.

With a permanent berth in the International Yacht Club Marina in Antibes, this giant is owned by Microsoft Co-Founder Paul Allen. With a full-time crew of 60 including former Navy Seals, maintenance and salaries on the ship cost a rumoured $200 million. Octopus is well-known for hosting famous faces onboard its well-equipped decks, serviced only by world leaders in their fields.

• Yacht Builder Lurssen Yachts View profile
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• Exterior Designer Espen Oeino View profile
• Interior Designer Jonathan Quinn Barnett No profile available

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OCTOPUS Yacht Charter Brochure

126.2m  /  414'1   lurssen   2003 / 2021.

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"Octopus" Brochure

Download the full charter brochure for luxury Motor yacht "Octopus" to explore her beautiful interiors, guest accommodation and full range of amenities as well as outdoor living spaces. This comprehensive overview provides the best way to get a feel for the superyacht charter experience on offer and gives detailed and accurate specifications so that you can match them up to your own requirements.

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NOTE to U.S. Customs & Border Protection

Charter Octopus

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11 crazy facts about Paul Allen's $200 million superyacht

With an estimated net worth of $17.5 billion, Microsoft cofounder Paul Allen can afford some expensive toys.

His 414-foot yacht, "Octopus," has to be one of the best billionaire toys around. 

Fully equipped with a pool, two helicopters, a movie theater, basketball court, recording studio, and accommodations for 26 guests in 41 suites, Octopus makes for an extremely luxurious escape. 

We've rounded up some of the yacht's craziest features here.

1. It cost Allen about $200 million to build.

Octopus is said to have cost Allen up to $200 million . Custom-built by German shipbuilders  Lurssen  over several years, it was officially launched in 2003.

2. It costs an estimated $384,000 a week to operate.

Yacht owners are expected to  pay approximately 10% of the original purchase price each year to cover basic maintenance and operations.

By that logic, Allen pays about $384,000 a week to keep Octopus in tiptop shape. That adds up to approximately $20 million a year, according to New York Social Diary .

3. It weighs more than 9,000 tons. 

Measuring a whopping 414 feet, Octopus is  one of the biggest private yachts in the world. According to Boat International , it was the largest when it launched in 2003, though yachts belonging to David Geffen and Roman Abramovich have since surpassed it.

4. He employs a permanent staff of 60.

Keeping such a massive operation running requires a lot of helping hands: captains, first mate, engineers, deckhands, in addition to chefs and stewardesses.

The yacht has 28 cabins just for the crew, the Superyacht Times reports.  

5. The tender — a boat used to shuttle guests between the yacht and the shore — is 63 feet long.

In keeping with the sea creature theme, Octopus' tender is called "Man-of-War." At 63 feet long , it's a decently sized boat itself.

6. It has two submarines.

Allen  has said  that Octopus is "less a Bentley than a Range Rover" because of the state-of-the art exploration equipment onboard.

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According to Vulcan , one of the submarines, called Pagoo, can dive for up to eight hours and accommodate 10 people. It's stored in an interior dock on the bottom of the yacht.

A second submarine, called the Octo ROV, can be remotely controlled and dive up to 8,843 feet. The ROV has been loaned out  for Google Earth's " Explore the Ocean " project and for a documentary on the Discovery Science Channel. 

7. A crew discovered a Japanese battleship with one of them.

In March, Allen announced that a crew onboard Octopus had located a WWII-era battleship at the bottom of the ocean in the Philippines.

It wasn't the first time Octopus has been used for purposes beyond entertainment for Allen and his inner circle. In 2012, Allen loaned the yacht to the Royal Navy in an effort to find a bell from a British WWII-era battleship. The search was eventually called off due to bad weather.

Octopus is also a member of the Automated Mutual Assistance Vessel Rescue, which means that it can be used to assist other boats in distress. 

8. It also has two helicopter landing pads.

There's one in the front and one in the back.

9. Mick Jagger has used the recording studio onboard.

A longtime fan of rock and roll — he built an entire museum dedicated to Jimi Hendrix memorabilia — Allen reportedly lent Octopus' recording studio to Mick Jagger when he was recording an album with SuperHeavy in 2011. 

Usher, Dave Stewart, U2, and Johnny Cash have all  reportedly performed onboard Octopus.

10. It has a glass-bottom pool. 

Other amenities include a basketball court, move theater, and a swimming pool with its own bar area. 

11. Parties Allen has hosted on the boat have drawn loads of A-list guests.

Octopus was built for a good time.  

Each year at the Cannes International Film Festival in Cannes, France, Allen throws an extravagant party  attended by actors, filmmakers, and supermodels.

Actors John C. Reilly, Jessica Lowndes, and Kelly Rutherford, as well as models Karlie Kloss and Melissa Bolona were all in attendance at this year's party .

Sharon Stone, Adrian Grenier, Russian actress Svetlana Metkina, and model Natasha Poly came last year .

Allen usually treats his guests to a live performance.

Watch: Microsoft President Brad Smith says the US shouldn't get 'too isolationist'

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Octopus Yacht Uncovered: An Insider’s Look at the Luxury Yacht

Launched back in the year 2003, the Octopus yacht was built by famous shipyard Lurssen out of Germany. Lurssen has been behind numerous other superyachts such as Kismet and Dilbar and many more. The exterior design was handled by Espen Øino Naval Architects while the interior was handled by American designer Jonathan Quinn Barnett.

Who Owns the Octopus Yacht?

The Octopus yacht was owned by Paul Allen, the co-founder of Microsoft. In addition to being a private pleasure yacht for Allen, the Octopus has served a variety of purposes over the years thanks to him loaning it out. It has served as an exploration vessel, been used for scientific research and has even seen use as a rescue vessel.

Allen died in 2018 and at that time the yacht underwent a refit at Blohm + Voss. In 2019 it was put on sale for a price of €295 million. The price was dropped by about 60 million and in 2021 it was picked up by an anonymous buyer. However, the anonymity didn’t last long and it was later revealed that Swedish billionaire Roger Samuelsson.

How Big is the Octopus Motor Yacht?

The Octopus more than qualifies as a superyacht coming in at an incredible 126.2 meters or 414 feet. While the largest yachts in the world are over 500 feet, the Octopus is clearly massive and could rightly be labeled a megayacht and one of the world’s largest yachts as well.

Aside from the incredible length of the vessel, it features a beam just shy of 69 feet across. The gross tonnage is 9,932.

How Much Did the Yacht Octopus Cost?

Paul Allen purchased the Octopus back in 2003. At that time the vessel cost him $200 million. Adjusted for inflation, that would work out to about $327 million by today, clearly making this one of the more expensive yachts in the world. That said, it still doesn’t meet the bar for one of the most expensive yachts ever by quite a bit.

Can You Charter the Octopus Yacht?

The Octopus is available for charter through the yacht firm Camper and Nicholsons but it’s definitely not available for most budgets. We’ve covered other yachts before that are owned by billionaires and are available for charter at some steep prices that often range around $1.2 million per week. The Octopus goes to the next level. 

You can charter the Octopus for about $2.2 million per week and that doesn’t include expenses. So you’ll be paying for things like food and fuel separately. Suffice it to say that this is not a charter for everyone but the option is there. 

Is the Octopus Yacht for Sale?

After its initial purchase in 2003 the Octopus was not available for sale until 2019 after owner Paul Allen passed away. There are currently some websites that claim the Octopus is for sale now and you can make an offer but the reliability of those sites is unknown and they do list the previous sale price from 2019 so they may not be current.

How Fast is the Octopus Yacht and What Engines Does it Use?

The Octopus has a cruising speed listed at 12.5 knots and a top speed listed at 19 knots. This is provided thanks to 8 MTU diesel engines that can generate a total of 19,200 hp. The yacht has an impressive range of up to 12,500 nautical miles at cruising speed thanks to her 1,034,000 liter fuel tanks 

What’s the Octopus Yacht Interior Like?

The Octopus covers eight decks and has room on board for a total of 26 guests and 63 crew. The guests can find accommodations in a full-beam master suite, two VIP suites, seven double rooms and three twins, one with an additional single bed.

The master suite is on a dedicated owner’s deck and features a king size bed, his and hers en suite bathrooms and a private observation deck that includes an al fresco dining area. There’s also a private bar and Jacuzzi There is also an owner exclusive private elevator for use. 

For years the details of the interior were a closely guarded secret while Paul Allen was still the owner. In fact, designer Espen Oeino said that this was the first yacht that ever required him to sign an NDA to keep its design secret. Since then he’s signed many more, but the Octopus was where it started. However, since Allen’s passing and the sale of the yacht, the transition to a vessel available for charter has allowed us to learn a lot more about the Octopus and its amenities and entertainment facilities.

Features and Amenities

The Octopus is an ice-class exploration yacht so it can go where many other luxury yachts cannot. It has two helipads as well as garages to house two helicopters. In addition, guests can find the following on board.

• There’s a large swimming pool to the aft of the yacht on the main deck. It features numerous loungers and its own cocktail bar. There’s also a retractable glass floor that covers the pool when not in use.
• A dance floor for parties
• A movie theater
• A well equipped gym for working out
• A relaxation spa that includes a sauna
• A large indoor/outdoor beach club area
• A large deck Jacuzzi
• A glass bottomed observation lounge
• A well-stocked library for those evenings when you want to curl up with a good book

For those who want to have some more intense fun out on the water, the Octopus has a number of toys that can be used.

• 59’5” Delta Powerboats 54′ Tender
• 30’8” Vikal Custom Limo Tender with a pair of 260 HP engines
• A 10-person submarine named Pagoo which we’ll talk more about shortly
• A dive center with a hyperbaric chamber and scuba gear
• A large swim platform
• A diving platform
• 4 separate 2 seat Yamaha FX140 Waverunners
• 2 separate 2 Person Hobie Pursuit Kayaks
• An Epic V5 Kayak
• 3 Windsurfers for a range of skill levels
• A stand up Yamaha jet ski
• 3 surfboards
• Kite surfers 
• Water skis and a variety of towable toys 
• Snorkeling gear
• Fishing gear

Octopus Rescue Work

The Octopus also features a not entirely typical on board submarine and also a very rare ROV or remote operated vehicle which is essentially a remote control sub. These had been used a number of times on rescue operations when Paul Allen owned the vessel.

The sub and ROV were used to help find a pilot and two officers who vanished off the coast of Palau, and even aided the Royal Navy in finding the bell from the HMS Hood which sank off of Denmark in WWII.

The Octopus has also aided in scientific research, most notably when researchers were studying coelacanth, a species of prehistoric fish thought to have been extinct for millions of years. 

What is the Octopus Yacht Deck Plan?

You can see the full deck plans here. The Octopus was designed to feature some things you would never expect to find on a yacht. For instance, it had a fully equipped recording studio where the band U2 did some recording. The studio also hosted Usher, Mick Jagger and Joss Stone. However, the studio has since been replaced with a bar and lounge area.

In addition to the studio the yacht was designed with a storm cabin to help minimize the effects of bad weather and a full medical center in case of emergencies. Many of these features no longer exist since the retrofit after Paul Allen’s death.

One extremely unique feature is the central clock. Braided stainless-steel shrouds from a sailing vessel were strung on either side of the grand staircase from lower to upper deck. The designer enlisted the aid of a 102-year-old German clock making company to help bring the idea to life. It also uses digital audio software so that on a regular basis the strings can play snippets from literally any song to indicate the passage of time.

The Bottom Line

The Octopus yacht was once owned by Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen until his death in 2018. Afterwards, some of the yacht was redesigned and it was sold for close to $300 million to Swedish billionaire Roger Samuelsson. 

The Octopus is a massive exploration yacht measuring 414 feet making it large but nowhere near as big as something like the massive Azzam . It has been used for scientific research and rescue missions in the past and is now available for charter though at a steep price.

While it has many of the expected amenities of luxury yachts it also features some more exotic fare like the minisub with room for 8 passengers and two crew, as well as a stunning array of toys and other features.

My grandfather first took me fishing when I was too young to actually hold up a rod on my own. As an avid camper, hiker, and nature enthusiast I'm always looking for a new adventure.

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How Much Does It Cost to Buy a Boat Versus a Yacht?

• For a boat to be a yacht, it has to carry certain features, and it's more expensive than other boats.

How Much to Buy a Boat v. a Yacht

Getty Images

While owning a boat can provide a sense of freedom and excitement that no other form of transportation can offer, it's not without costs— they can be more expensive than you anticipate, and not just at purchase.

Key Takeaways

• The average purchase price of a 20-foot boat is between $10,000 and $60,000.
• Ongoing maintenance and other costs make boat ownership more expensive than many anticipate.
• While not necessarily a good investment, boats provide other benefits that make ownership worthwhile for many.  

Getting out on a river, lake or ocean in your very own vessel can be a dream come true.

But while owning a watercraft can provide a sense of freedom and excitement that no other form of transportation can offer, it's not without costs. In fact, boats can be more expensive than you anticipate, and not just at purchase.

Here is the difference between a boat and a yacht, and how each can come with a vast array of associated costs.

What Is the Average Cost of Owning a Boat?

The first cost associated with a boat is the purchase price. Fish and Ski Marine, a Texas-based boat dealership, reported the average purchase price for a new 20-foot boat in 2023 was between $40,000 and $60,000. If you bought the same vessel used, it would be between $10,000 and $20,000.

Boats come with other upfront costs besides the purchase price. Unless you'll be buying with cash, you'll finance the boat purchase .

The typical down payment is between 10% and 30% of the purchase price, and 15% is typical. According to Boat Trader , the average loan interest rate is between 7% and 10%, depending on your credit score, age, the type of boat and the economic climate.

You'll also need to register your boat and pay the sales tax, which may be added to the purchase price.

Fish and Ski Marine reports the annual cost of owning a standard fishing or pleasure boat typically ranges from $3,000 to $7,500 per year. This includes trailers, insurance, storage and marina fees, maintenance, fuel, education and licensing fees, and equipment and accessories.

What Makes a Boat a Yacht

Boats come in a vast number of varieties, from those that don't have motors, like sailboats and catamarans, to those that do, like cruisers, speedboats and yachts. And while all yachts are motorized, for a vessel to be considered one it must have certain characteristics, including:

• Minimum size . In general, a boat becomes a yacht when it is at least 33 feet long.
• Recreational purpose . Boats can have a wide variety of functions, such as sailing, fishing and business, but yachts are designed for comfort, entertainment and pleasure . 
• Luxury features . Yachts usually have spacious staterooms, complete kitchens, several heads (bathrooms) and other living spaces. After that there are countless extras, from pools and hot tubs to multiple dining rooms, bars and even helipads. 
• Sufficient power . Compared to other types of boats, a yacht's engine should be powerful enough to travel far distances. 

The Bigger the Yacht, the Higher the Cost 

For yachts, size is a major factor in the purchase price. Per Galati Boat Sales data , the average costs in 2023 were:

• Small (less than 50 feet): $500,000 to $2.5 million
• Mid (50 to 70 feet): $2 million to $6 million
• Large (70 to 90 feet): $6 million to $15 million or more
• Super (90 feet and longer): $10 million and more
• Mega (165 feet and longer): no average, but $600 million was a current going price 

Jim Burns, yacht broker with Knot 10 Yacht Sales in Granville, Maryland, says there are many factors that go into the cost of yacht ownership.

“Keep a boat in your driveway and it won’t cost much, but if it's in a marina slip, you’re paying for that,” Burns says. “The bigger the boat, the higher that cost will be. Everything is done in feet, and all the marinas vary.”

For example, at the Kona Kai Marina in San Diego, the range is $28 to $60 per foot based on boat length over all (LOA) or slip LOA, whichever is longer. At the Cooper River Marina in South Carolina, long-term dockage is $15.25 per foot.

Boat and Yacht Upkeep Costs

Once you have the vessel, you’ll have to ensure it remains in proper working order. Time spent on the water is a major factor in how much it will cost in maintenance.

“You’re putting a ton of stress on the boat, just from the wear and tear,” says Yosef Shimels, co-founder of Destiny Yachts, a Miami-based private luxury charter company.

“You’re utilizing the AC, the water pump and the generator. Anything can go out at any time. We have to keep reserves for unexpected maintenance costs. I learned that something will go out, and more frequently than I expected,” he adds.

Trish Taylor co-owns Fire Drill Charters, which operates on Lake Michigan, with her husband, and she has a warning.

“There’s a saying that 'BOAT' stands for ‘break out another thousand’ and that’s not just one time, but over and over again,” Taylor says.

“And it’s true. Most people have no idea of the upkeep on boats. Boat ownership is different from owning a car. They simply don’t know what they don’t know,” she says.

Be on the lookout for the cost of regular oil changes, fuel filters, adding necessary technology and storage fees.

To reduce the monthly costs of keeping the boat in a slip (if it’s too long to keep in your driveway), you may consider taking it out of the water and paying for a storage space. Burns says $200 a month is typical, but it ultimately depends on the size of the vessel.

If you can’t find covered storage, you may have to pay to have the boat shrink-wrapped so it’s protected against the elements. That too, can set you back. For example, at Michigan’s Pier 33, wrapping a boat between 34 and 35.11 feet will cost $805.

Are Boats a Good Investment?

“Boats generally lose value after purchase,” Burns says. “If you buy one for $100,000, know that you’ll never sell it for that.”

But what you put into the vessel as well as the type can help keep its value or even increase it.

"We own a 1993 Tiara Yacht we bought eight years ago,” Taylor says.

"Because of the tech and performance upgrades as well as a sought-after style that’s not made anymore, it can go for double what we bought it for. Buyers recognize well-maintained boats that have been upgraded to make the boating experience even better,” she adds.

Is Buying a Used Boat Worth It?

“In most cases a used boat is a phenomenal option,” Burns says. “For a 43-foot yacht you may pay $43,000 because it's 25 years old. To buy a new one it can be millions.”

Do make your purchase through a qualified broker, though.

“Private sales can be risky,” Burns says. “It's like buying a used car from a person online. As a broker we go through a process and handle all the transactions so the buyer gets a legal boat, and in a condition that’s acceptable for their intended use.”

It’s especially important to buy a used boat with the assistance of an expert if you're a first-time boat owner.

“If you don’t, you won’t know what to look for,” Burns says. “What’s underneath the shine? These things can cost tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars. It could be rotted out from moisture, and a fix could cost $30,000."

Pros and Cons of Owning a Boat

In the end, there are many reasons to have a boat or yacht of your own.

“They are pleasure crafts, so it's tough to put a price tag on being with your family, hanging out at a really good marina and having fun,” Burns says.

Shimels says chartering the boat out helps cover costs and provides him with residual income. "It’s also a tax benefit , because I can write off the depreciation,” he says.

As for the disadvantages, they include the unpredictable costs. “We just had an unexpected repair,” Shimels says. “A generator just went out, and it was $10,000.”

Finding the right people to help keep the boat or yacht in good working order isn’t always so easy, either.

“You have to find a good mechanic, someone to do the cleaning,” Shimels says. “There’s a variety of people you have to rely on.”

Finally, not everyone can handle the money and stress of boat ownership, and that’s OK.

“We’ve had customers who sold their boat and simply do multiple charters with us,” Taylor says. “All they do is walk on, fish and pay us. They love it. No cleaning or upkeep anymore for them.”

How Much is a Private Jet? 

Erica Sandberg Nov. 15, 2023

Tags: money , financial literacy , shopping , luxury

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How Much Does It Cost to Buy a Boat Versus a Yacht?

U.S. News & World Report

June 13, 2024, 8:00 PM

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Getting out on a river, lake or ocean in your very own vessel can be a dream come true.

But while owning a watercraft can provide a sense of freedom and excitement that no other form of transportation can offer, it’s not without costs. In fact, boats can be more expensive than you anticipate, and not just at purchase.

Here is the difference between a boat and a yacht, and how each can come with a vast array of associated costs.

What Is the Average Cost of Owning a Boat?

The first cost associated with a boat is the purchase price. Fish and Ski Marine, a Texas-based boat dealership, reported the average purchase price for a new 20-foot boat in 2023 was between $40,000 and $60,000. If you bought the same vessel used, it would be between $10,000 and $20,000.

Boats come with other upfront costs besides the purchase price. Unless you’ll be buying with cash, you’ll finance the boat purchase .

The typical down payment is between 10% and 30% of the purchase price, and 15% is typical. According to Boat Trader , the average loan interest rate is between 7% and 10%, depending on your credit score, age, the type of boat and the economic climate.

You’ll also need to register your boat and pay the sales tax, which may be added to the purchase price.

Fish and Ski Marine reports the annual cost of owning a standard fishing or pleasure boat typically ranges from $3,000 to $7,500 per year. This includes trailers, insurance, storage and marina fees, maintenance, fuel, education and licensing fees, and equipment and accessories.

[ READ: The Best Time to Buy Everything. ]

What Makes a Boat a Yacht

Boats come in a vast number of varieties, from those that don’t have motors, like sailboats and catamarans, to those that do, like cruisers, speedboats and yachts. And while all yachts are motorized, for a vessel to be considered one it must have certain characteristics, including:

— Minimum size . In general, a boat becomes a yacht when it is at least 33 feet long.

— Recreational purpose . Boats can have a wide variety of functions, such as sailing, fishing and business, but yachts are designed for comfort, entertainment and pleasure .

— Luxury features . Yachts usually have spacious staterooms, complete kitchens, several heads (bathrooms) and other living spaces. After that there are countless extras, from pools and hot tubs to multiple dining rooms, bars and even helipads.

— Sufficient power . Compared to other types of boats, a yacht’s engine should be powerful enough to travel far distances.

The Bigger the Yacht, the Higher the Cost

For yachts, size is a major factor in the purchase price. Per Galati Boat Sales data , the average costs in 2023 were:

— Small (less than 50 feet): $500,000 to $2.5 million

— Mid (50 to 70 feet): $2 million to $6 million

— Large (70 to 90 feet): $6 million to $15 million or more

— Super (90 feet and longer): $10 million and more

— Mega (165 feet and longer): no average, but $600 million was a current going price

Jim Burns, owner of Knot 10 Yacht Sales in Granville, Maryland, says there are many factors that go into the cost of yacht ownership.

“Keep a boat in your driveway and it won’t cost much, but if it’s in a marina slip, you’re paying for that,” Burns says. “The bigger the boat, the higher that cost will be. Everything is done in feet, and all the marinas vary.”

For example, at the Kona Kai Marina in San Diego, the range is $28 to $60 per foot based on boat length over all (LOA) or slip LOA, whichever is longer. At the Cooper River Marina in South Carolina, long-term dockage is $15.25 per foot.

Boat and Yacht Upkeep Costs

Once you have the vessel, you’ll have to ensure it remains in proper working order. Time spent on the water is a major factor in how much it will cost in maintenance.

“You’re putting a ton of stress on the boat, just from the wear and tear,” says Yosef Shimels, co-founder of Destiny Yachts, a Miami-based private luxury charter company.

“You’re utilizing the AC, the water pump and the generator. Anything can go out at any time. We have to keep reserves for unexpected maintenance costs. I learned that something will go out, and more frequently than I expected,” he adds.

Trish Taylor co-owns Fire Drill Charters, which operates on Lake Michigan, with her husband, and she has a warning.

“There’s a saying that ‘BOAT’ stands for ‘break out another thousand’ and that’s not just one time, but over and over again,” Taylor says.

“And it’s true. Most people have no idea of the upkeep on boats. Boat ownership is different from owning a car. They simply don’t know what they don’t know,” she says.

Be on the lookout for the cost of regular oil changes, fuel filters, adding necessary technology and storage fees.

To reduce the monthly costs of keeping the boat in a slip (if it’s too long to keep in your driveway), you may consider taking it out of the water and paying for a storage space. Burns says $200 a month is typical, but it ultimately depends on the size of the vessel.

If you can’t find covered storage, you may have to pay to have the boat shrink-wrapped so it’s protected against the elements. That too, can set you back. For example, at Michigan’s Pier 33, wrapping a boat between 34 and 35.11 feet will cost $805.

Are Boats a Good Investment?

“Boats generally lose value after purchase,” Burns says. “If you buy one for $100,000, know that you’ll never sell it for that.”

But what you put into the vessel as well as the type can help keep its value or even increase it.

“We own a 1993 Tiara Yacht we bought eight years ago,” Taylor says.

“Because of the tech and performance upgrades as well as a sought-after style that’s not made anymore, it can go for double what we bought it for. Buyers recognize well-maintained boats that have been upgraded to make the boating experience even better,” she adds.

[ Things You Can Rent Instead of Buy ]

Is Buying a Used Boat Worth It?

“In most cases a used boat is a phenomenal option,” Burns says. “For a 43-foot yacht you may pay $43,000 because it’s 25 years old. To buy a new one it can be millions.”

Do make your purchase through a qualified broker, though.

“Private sales can be risky,” Burns says. “It’s like buying a used car from a person online. As a broker we go through a process and handle all the transactions so the buyer gets a legal boat, and in a condition that’s acceptable for their intended use.”

It’s especially important to buy a used boat with the assistance of an expert if you’re a first-time boat owner.

“If you don’t, you won’t know what to look for,” Burns says. “What’s underneath the shine? These things can cost tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars. It could be rotted out from moisture, and a fix could cost $30,000.”

[ see: Things You Should Never Buy Used ]

Pros and Cons of Owning a Boat

In the end, there are many reasons to have a boat or yacht of your own.

“They are pleasure crafts, so it’s tough to put a price tag on being with your family, hanging out at a really good marina and having fun,” Burns says.

Shimels says chartering the boat out helps cover costs and provides him with residual income. “It’s also a tax benefit , because I can write off the depreciation,” he says.

As for the disadvantages, they include the unpredictable costs. “We just had an unexpected repair,” Shimels says. “A generator just went out, and it was $10,000.”

Finding the right people to help keep the boat or yacht in good working order isn’t always so easy, either.

“You have to find a good mechanic, someone to do the cleaning,” Shimels says. “There’s a variety of people you have to rely on.”

Finally, not everyone can handle the money and stress of boat ownership, and that’s OK.

“We’ve had customers who sold their boat and simply do multiple charters with us,” Taylor says. “All they do is walk on, fish and pay us. They love it. No cleaning or upkeep anymore for them.”

More from U.S. News

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How Much Does It Cost to Buy a Boat Versus a Yacht? originally appeared on usnews.com

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