Sanctions on the luxury superyacht 'Flying Fox' have been officially lifted, enabling the vessel to resume global operations and paving the way for renewed opportunities in high-end maritime travel and luxury charter services.
December 28, 2024 – The 136-meter luxury superyacht Flying Fox has been officially removed from the U.S. sanctions list, according to a recent update from the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), a branch of the U.S. Department of the Treasury. The decision clears the way for the yacht’s unrestricted availability on the global charter market.
The yacht was originally flagged in June 2022 due to its ties to Imperial Yachts, a Monaco-based brokerage firm that faced sanctions amid allegations of connections to Russian entities following the outbreak of the war between Russia and Ukraine. At that time, Flying Fox was designated as “blocked property” under Executive Order 14024, which targeted assets linked to individuals or companies involved in harmful activities. Imperial Yachts subsequently ceased operations and entered liquidation.
In January 2024, Flying Fox re-entered the charter market with Bluewater Yachting Dubai, but restrictions remained in place for U.S. citizens and waters. Following the recent delisting, Flying Fox is now cleared for global charters, including for American clients.
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“We are pleased to confirm that all clients, including Americans, are once again welcome, as are all brokers, including those from the United States,” Bluewater Yachting Dubai said in a statement.
The yacht is expected to be available for charter in premier destinations such as the Red Sea, Seychelles, and Maldives. It is currently anchored off the coast of Kuah, Malaysia, according to BOATPro.Delivered by German shipbuilder Lürssen in 2019, Flying Fox is celebrated as one of the largest and most luxurious charter yachts in the world. Designed by Espen Øino, its sleek exterior is complemented by interiors from Mark Berryman, featuring neutral tones, plush fabrics, and greenery for a tranquil ambiance.
The superyacht spans 9,022 gross tons and can accommodate up to 22 guests in 11 staterooms, including a master suite with a private Jacuzzi, office, fireplace, and his-and-hers dressing rooms. The additional 10 VIP suites offer private balconies, walk-in wardrobes, and en-suite bathrooms. Flying Fox also supports a crew of 55 to deliver top-tier service.
Among its standout features are:
- A 400-square-meter, two-floor spa, including the first cryotherapy chamber ever installed on a yacht.
- A 12-meter swimming pool.
- Two helipads measuring 14 and 18 meters, capable of accommodating the largest helicopters.
- Indoor and outdoor cinemas.
- An outdoor kitchen with a teppanyaki grill and churrasco oven.
For adventure enthusiasts, Flying Fox offers watersports such as kite surfing, sailing, and powered activities, all supervised by a professional sports team. Certified dive instructors also provide PADI courses and advanced diving experiences using closed-circuit rebreathers. A professional decompression chamber ensures safety during extended diving expeditions.
The delisting of Flying Fox marks a significant step forward for the yacht, once considered a symbol of controversy, as it regains its reputation as a pinnacle of luxury and sophistication.
Bluewater Yachting Dubai expressed confidence in the yacht’s resurgence, stating, “With immense pride, we are thrilled to announce that Flying Fox, the epitome of grandeur in the superyacht realm, is now back on the charter market.”
As one of the most iconic vessels in the industry, Flying Fox is set to attract high-profile clients and charter enthusiasts looking to experience unmatched elegance and adventure on the open seas.
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