James Bond never had it so good. Diamonds Are Forever is the newest megayacht for John Staluppi, an American known as much for his love of yachts as he is for his passion for Bond flicks. Diamonds Are Forever slipped into the water at Benetti last week, for a test ahead of her official launch.
At 200 feet (60.95 meters), Diamonds Are Forever is Staluppi’s largest megayacht to date. She’s also among the largest Benetti yachts built in terms of volume, given her four decks. Staluppi and his wife Jeannette wanted Diamonds Are Forever to have ample spaces for relaxation and entertaining, particularly for the comfort of charter guests.
They also wanted the decor to be high style. The slideshow below gives you a good idea of what it will look like upon completion. (Editor’s note: We have since replaced the illustrations with real photos.) Evan K. Marshall, who has collaborated with the Staluppis on previous yachts, outfitted every space, from the two panoramic master suites to the four guest staterooms, in luxe fashion. Creams and whites dominate, from furnishings to floor coverings. Marbles and other stonework as well as etched glass are used as accents. A central elevator will whisk guests throughout the four decks, even taking them up to the private lounge on the uppermost deck.
After delivery, Diamonds Are Forever will be available for charter as part of Ocean Independence’s fleet. She’ll take 12 guests, attended to by a crew of 15. Rates: $395,000 per week for low season and $450,000 per week for high season in the Caribbean this winter. Come summer, Diamonds Are Forever will move to the Med. Rates: 330,000 euros (approximately $453,000) per week for low season and 365,000 euros (about $501,000) per week for high season. Among the toys the yacht is expected to tote: Sea Bobs, PWCs, fishing gear, diving gear, and tandem kayaks. Among our favorites: golf clubs, with a tee box and biodegradable balls. Fore!
Tom Karg
Go see the website for Diamonds are Forever at diamondsyacht.com – it gives all the latest updates