It’s finally happening. After three years of speculation and gossip, Eclipse, the world’s largest yacht, is days away from handover to Roman Abramovich. She’s seen here on April 16 as she left the dock from Blohm + Voss in Hamburg. She’s still in Hamburg, although if a Norwegian newspaper is correct, she’ll be in their waters around May 17 or 18.
Abramovich, the Russian billionaire who already owns several yachts, commissioned Eclipse several years back. The exact LOA is the subject of strong debate. In fact, a variety of reports have it anywhere from 509 to 557 feet LOA. Blohm + Voss hasn’t so much as acknowledged the project, due to a confidentiality agreement. My own research based on the superyacht’s IMO number reveals it’s 163 meters, or about 535 feet. That means Eclipse just eclipses Dubai as the largest yacht in the world, by a mere three feet. For what it’s worth, the rumor mill has held that Abramovich commissioned Eclipse to outrank her.
Even with those involved in the design and construction remaining quiet, certain assumptions might be true. The owner’s stateroom is likely akin to a penthouse, occupying the full beam (22 meters, or about 72 feet), for instance. Like every sizable superyacht, it surely contains a substantial bedroom, office, and en suite his and her head. Perhaps it even has a private observation area, either indoors or alfresco – or both. Guest staterooms are certain to be ample, too. Crew cabins further should be plentiful for this LOA. Some believe there are upwards of 70 crewmembers.
Among the rumored features, a few are pure fiction, however. I’ve already debunked one, stating that Eclipse has super-powerful anti-paparazzi lasers. Despite that, several media continue to recount their supposed existence. Simultaneously, some reports indicate an escape hatch is in the hull, through which Abramovich can depart aboard a personal sub in case of attack. Lastly, and most outrageously, are the reports of a missile detection system. I have to admit I initially believed it when I heard of it a few years ago. But, in speaking with shipyard owners with experience in both military and yacht construction, I learned it is almost certainly false. Anti-missile weapons and their launching mechanisms require a lot of space – space owners don’t want to sacrifice.
Regardless, one thing is definitely true: The delivery of Eclipse comes shortly after Abramovich reportedly took delivery of yet another superyacht, the expedition-style Luna. Measuring 115 meters (377 feet), she saw construction at Lloydwerft, a commercial German yard. She’s expected to head to Norway soon, too.
So what will Abramovich do with his new megayachts? Probably entertain members of the Cheslea Football Club, since he’s hosted them on his other yachts.
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