A Closer Look at the $330 Million Superyacht Serene

The Serene is one of the largest privately owned superyachts in the world. She is in the top ten with regard to the length, but it's also among the most luxurious and extravagant vessels. The floating palace has accommodated some of the wealthiest people in the world. The estimated value of the Serene is $330 million, which also places it among the most expensive as well. She has an interesting story and has traded hands a couple of times. To fully grasp the magnificence of the luxury superyacht, we take a closer look at the elements that make it so special.

The building of the Serene

The Serene was commissioned by Yuri Shefler, who is a Russian vodka exportation magnate. The agreed-upon cost or the vessel was $330 million. He chose Italian Shipbuilders Fincantieri to complete the task, which was accomplished in August of 2011. The ship is classified as a Superyacht measuring 439 feet and 4 inches with a beam of 60 ft 8 inches and a draft of 18 ft and 1 inch. The gross tonnage is 8,231 tons and she is powered across with water by twin screw propulsion. The guest capacity is 24 with space to house a crew of up to 52. At the time of delivery, the Serene was the ninth largest superyacht in the world, but since that time, it has been replaced with larger vessels in this position and is now in the fifteenth position.

The history of the Serene

Yuri Shefler has entertained some of the wealthiest people in the world aboard the Serene. Bill Gates chartered the Serene for the cost of $5 million a week so he, Melinda and their three kids could enjoy some private family time together in August of 2014. They vacationed off of the coast of Porto Cervo, Sardinia, according to Boat International. This lavish yacht is the design of Espen Oeino, in charge of the exterior design, which offers a sleek profile. The interior is the creation of Reymond Langton Design.

Shefler was the first owner of the yacht, but he sold it to Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Saudi Arabian royalty in 2015 for the sum of 50 million Euros. Just two years after the purchase, there was an incident of concern involving the Serene. Due to propulsion failure and human error, the Serene ran aground in an area of the Red Sea notorious for shallow rock reefs. The hull at the bow was damaged requiring significant repairs. The incident took place in August.

Amenities

The Serene was made available for charter by Shefler during the times that he wasn't using it himself. This luxury yacht is absolutely packed with amenities. For starters, there is a helipad to allow guests to move to and from the yacht for land excursions as well as sightseeing from the air, or for going out for entertainment at some of the more exciting ports. For enjoying recreation in the water, there are also jet skis on board and there is also a submarine on board to get some fantastic views of the marine life and environment beneath the waves. This yacht is made for family fun for people of all ages. there is also a trans deck waterslide, a climbing wall, several swimming pools, a playroom, a snow room and a cinema for a night at the movies.

Adult amenities

The Serene is built with a total of six decks which allows for private times as well for group gatherings. There is a sun deck with a super large bathtub built in. The Serene also features an area that is designated as a private beach club, complete with a sauna and area for sunbathing. If you enjoy dancing there is also s sundeck dance floor, a wet bar, extra sun loungers, and two jacuzzis. There are also al fresco eating areas on the exterior. On the interior, the Serene features a Teppanyaki grill, a wood-fired pizza oven, a barbecue, and a wet bar. There is also an underwater observation lounge for relaxation and watching the marine life swim around the outside. For accommodations, the Serene has 12 staterooms, all designed for luxury living with a VIP Suite, a master suite, three twin cabins and seven double suites with room for up to 24. There is also a sky lounge and piano bar onboard with luxury furnishings for relaxation and cocktails. There is also a formal dining room with floor to ceiling windows placed in a manner that offers a panoramic view of the outside environment.

Final thoughts

The Serene is a privately owned yacht which has a major difference that sets it apart from most of the other superyachts in its category. This one has been offered for charter since the time of its purchase, off and one. Many of the other privately owned superyachts in its category are only available upon invitation, and the owners tend to be selective about who is invited to come aboard. This is good news for those who have the going rate of $5 million per week to pay the charter fee. The Serene is one of the most luxurious superyachts in operation with an onboard crew that ranges from 40 to 54 to meet your every need for great food and even formal dining, wet bar and cocktail lounge services, and plenty of activities to keep everyone in your party entertained and relaxed. What we found so incredible about this ship is that there is a little something for everyone, whether you're into rock climbing, watching movies, playing water sports, swimming or going on an undersea adventure in the submarine that can dive up to 300 feet.