Jeff Bezos, the Amazon founder and one of the world’s richest individuals, was recently spotted in Gibraltar aboard his $500 million sailing yacht, Koru. The 127-meter vessel, recognized as the world’s largest sailing yacht, has captivated attention since its delivery in April 2023, and its latest appearance in Gibraltar continues to turn heads.
Designed by Dykstra Naval Architecture and built by the renowned Dutch shipyard Oceanco, Koru is a marvel of engineering and luxury. The yacht’s towering navy-blue steel hull, elegant aluminum superstructure, and three massive masts evoke the style of classic sailing schooners. Reportedly inspired by the triple-masted Eos, Koru blends timeless aesthetics with cutting-edge technology.
Measuring an impressive 410 feet from bow to stern with a 56-foot beam, Koru boasts a staggering interior volume of 3,300 gross tons. It accommodates up to 18 guests in nine luxurious cabins, supported by a crew of 36 to ensure seamless operations.
The interior design, handled by London-based studio Mlinaric, Henry & Zervudachi, is described as "timeless yet contemporary," featuring natural wood tones, warm neutrals, and beautifully patterned textiles. Despite its grandeur, Koru remains shrouded in secrecy, with many details about its interior and technical specifications yet to be revealed.
Unlike the diesel-powered mega motor yachts favored by many billionaires, Bezos opted for an eco-friendly sailing yacht. With a sail plan spanning over 20,000 square feet, Koru has been seen cruising under wind power, a testament to its efficiency and Bezos’ reported commitment to sustainability. The yacht is also rumored to feature hybrid power systems and experimental kinetic energy recovery technologies that convert wave motion into electricity.
The yacht’s name, Koru, holds deep significance. Derived from the Maori term for “loop” or “coil,” the name symbolizes growth, new life, and fresh beginnings. Its wooden figurehead, a woman adorned with a koru-shaped pendant, pays homage to this meaning, adding a personal and symbolic touch to the yacht.Since its delivery, Koru has embarked on a global journey, visiting iconic destinations like Spain’s Balearic Islands, Cannes, Saint-Tropez, and the Caribbean. In a memorable moment, Bezos proposed to his fiancée, Lauren Sánchez, aboard Koru off the coast of Cannes last year, marking another milestone in its storied voyages.
Now, in Gibraltar, Koru continues to make waves, both literally and figuratively, as a symbol of luxury, innovation, and adventure.
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