As the high season of yachting in the Mediterranean approaches, Jeff Bezos, the founder of Amazon, has captured the attention of the maritime world with his latest acquisition, the superyacht KORU. Photographed alongside his partner Lauren Sánchez off the coast of Spain, Bezos’ sailing vessel has become the talk of the town. Let’s take a closer look inside Jeff Bezos’ $500 million superyacht KORU and explore its design, sailing experience, accompanying dinghy, a recent kerfuffle, and the meaning behind its name.
A Classic Beauty In A Sea Of Extravagance
In a time when yacht designs tend to be extravagant and outlandish, KORU presents a refreshing departure. As the world’s largest sailing yacht at 417 feet, KORU stands out as a schooner with its two or more masts. The sleek, classic lines evoke the elegance of yachts from the early 20th century, reminiscent of J.P. Morgan Jr.’s Corsair IV. Robert B. MacKay, author of “The Golden Age of Newport Yachting: Between the Wars,” points out the contrast between KORU and the over-the-top designs favored by the super-rich, describing them as “bloated Clorox bottles.”
While the exterior design of KORU exudes classic beauty, the interior of this superyacht is a testament to opulence and sophistication. Every detail has been meticulously crafted to provide the utmost comfort and luxury for its passengers. Sumptuous materials, including fine wood finishes, marble accents, and plush furnishings, create an atmosphere of elegance and refinement. The interior spaces of KORU are vast, offering generous living areas, dining rooms, and lounges for entertainment and relaxation. State-of-the-art technology seamlessly integrates with traditional design elements, providing a harmonious blend of old-world charm and modern convenience.
Green Luxury In The Open Seas
Unlike many megayachts that rely on diesel power, KORU primarily harnesses the wind, making it a greener option. Don Anderson, a former captain of the world’s largest single-masted sailboat, highlights the ecological aspect of sailboats and the unique experience they offer. Sailing allows passengers to be more connected to the elements and enjoy the journey itself rather than just the destination.
With KORU, Bezos can embrace the wind and waves while cruising the world’s most picturesque waters. KORU boasts an impressive array of amenities and features that elevate the yachting experience to unparalleled heights. Among its luxurious offerings is an on-deck pool, providing a refreshing oasis for guests to enjoy under the sun. The pool area is complemented by spacious lounging and sunbathing areas, allowing passengers to bask in the splendor of the surroundings.
Inside, KORU features a lavish spa and wellness center, complete with a fully equipped gym, sauna, and massage rooms. Pampering oneself with rejuvenating treatments while cruising the open seas becomes an everyday luxury on board this magnificent yacht. To cater to the culinary desires of its guests, KORU boasts a world-class gourmet kitchen manned by a team of highly skilled chefs. The dining experience is elevated with formal dining rooms and al fresco dining options, where delectable cuisine is served with panoramic views of the ocean.
Abeona – The Ultimate Support Vessel
Every superyacht needs a support vessel to carry additional amenities and toys. KORU is no exception, and it is trailed by Abeona, a 246-foot motor yacht. These “shadows” are equipped to accommodate various recreational vehicles, such as ATVs, supercars, seaplanes, motorcycles, smaller boats, scuba gear, personal submarines, and even helicopters. Abeona ensures that Bezos and his guests have everything they need for a luxurious and adventurous experience at sea.
With enough range to follow KORU from the Mediterranean to the Caribbean on a single tank of gas, Abeona proves to be the perfect companion. Notably, KORU is not Jeff Bezos’ first foray into the world of luxury yachting. According to reports, Bezos has previously enjoyed sailing on Eos, a 305-foot sailing yacht owned by Barry Diller and Diane von Furstenberg. His experiences on these remarkable vessels have undoubtedly fueled his passion for yachting and shaped his vision for KORU.
Bezos’ love for the ocean and exploration aligns with the allure of yachting. The freedom and privacy that yachts provide allow him to escape the demands of his high-profile business ventures and enjoy moments of tranquility with his loved ones. With KORU, Bezos can embark on unforgettable adventures, discover new horizons, and experience the ultimate luxury at sea.
Koru’s Symbolism And Bezos’ Evolution
As the world’s largest sailing yacht, KORU has significantly impacted the yachting industry. Its design and size challenge the conventional notion of megayachts, which typically rely on motor power. KORU’s emphasis on sailing not only offers a greener alternative but also sets a new standard for luxury sailing experiences. The name “Koru” holds special significance. In Maori, it means “coil” or “loop” and represents the unfurling of a fern frond.
The koru design is a prominent feature in traditional Maori art, symbolizing new life, growth, and peace. Bezos shared a photo of a koru frond on his Instagram on January 1, 2022, hinting at the yacht’s name and its symbolic ties. Brad Stone, the author of “Amazon Unbound: Jeff Bezos and the Invention of a Global Empire,” suggests that the name reflects Bezos’ personal evolution as he ventures beyond the tech world into media, Hollywood, and his new relationship with Lauren Sánchez.
Jeff Bezos’ superyacht KORU showcases a departure from the norm in yacht design with its classic elegance and sailing capabilities. Offering a greener experience on the open seas, KORU allows its passengers to appreciate the journey as much as the destination. Supported by the impressive motor yacht Abeona, Bezos and his guests can enjoy a range of recreational amenities and toys. As it cruises the world’s most exclusive waters, KORU serves as a testament to the allure and grandeur of the superyacht lifestyle.
Sources: SCMP, The New York Times, Yacht Charter Fleet
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