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When late Paul Allen’s 126m Lürssen superyacht Octopus was launched in 2003, she was easily the largest explorer yacht ever built, and one of the biggest yachts outright.

Iconic yachts: On board Paul Allen's 126m Lürssen superyacht Octopus

When the late Paul Allen’s Octopus was launched in 2003, she stood alone in the yachting world. At 126m length, she was easily the largest explorer yacht ever built, and one of the biggest yachts outright. But in many ways, she heralded a new era of owning very large boats – one where science and research were every bit as important as luxury finish, spas and swimming pools.

Allen himself was said to have commented that his yacht was more of a Land Rover than a Bentley. It’s a view that pays homage to capabilities including an ice-class 1A steel hull, hangar space for two helicopters, a battery of tenders, submersibles and remotely operated vehicles plus a comprehensive dive centre including a hyperbaric chamber. But the boat also has a lavish interior.

Octopus was built by Lürssen in Bremen and Kiel with external styling and design work from Espen Øino . He remembers starting work on her back in 1998, when she was the largest project of his career. “It was a very ambitious brief, because none of the tenders, tools, RVs, subs, helicopters could be outside – they should all be concealed,” remembers Øino. “Particularly the very large tender and the sub. We came up with an interesting solution for launching those through the big transom door, and the travel lift.”

The solution was revolutionary for a private yacht. When the transom door folds up it reveals a world straight out of a Bond movie – a high walkway alongside a 36 metre internal wet dock area overhung with big cranes on gantries. Øino chuckles at the memory: “The stern dock is just an amazing space,” he says.

Allen’s motivation for all this was his love of diving for shipwrecks , which has driven Octopus to many remote corners of the oceans. Her 10-person Pagoo submersible was custom built for the boat – there was no alternative at the time. Subsequently, an autonomous unmanned vehicle was added to the arsenal of equipment, capable of scanning the seabed for features of interest for hours before returning to the mothership. She has six tenders and numerous toys besides.

Among the notable missions undertaken by Octopus was the recovery of the ship’s bell of HMS Hood , sunk by the Bismarck in 2,700m off Greenland, and the discovery of the Japanese warship Musashi 1,000m down in the Sibuyan Sea.

For all that, Octopus is a true superyacht, fitted out in luxurious style by Jonathan Barnett . The interior finish includes an antique bronze door from the 1930s, and is said to set a “harmoniously rugged” tone. There’s solid furniture, lots of wood panelling and serious-looking stainless steel handrails.

She boasts an owner’s deck with a private jacuzzi and dining area plus a dedicated owner’s lift. Other features include an observation lounge, beach club, pool (which converts into a dancefloor), gym and spa. Most notably, Octopus is fitted with a large cinema and a fully-equipped recording studio – something that has hosted artists from Mick Jagger and Bono to Usher and Joss Stone. “Mr Allen’s interest in music was enormous and the acoustic quality was nothing less than a shore-based one,” says Øino. “There were 54 tonnes of AV/IT equipment aboard. A very complex boat in many ways. I think he loved it.”

The boat sleeps 26 guests in 13 cabins, as well as 57 crew. She had an extensive refit at Blohm+Voss in 2019 and was one of the biggest sales of 2021.

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Octopus Charter Yacht

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OCTOPUS YACHT CHARTER

126.2m  /  414'1   lurssen   2003 / 2021.

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Cabin Configuration

Special Features:

  • Stunning interiors with 13 guest suites
  • Vast Owner's deck, including bar, Jacuzzi, alfresco dining area and private elevator
  • Large aft swimming pool surrounded by loungers and full cocktail bar
  • Cinema suite
  • Superb wellness amenities
  • Glass-bottomed observation lounge on her tank deck
  • 2 helicopters with dedicated hangar
  • Personal submarine for 8 people, plus 2 crew
  • Dive centre with hyperbaric chamber
  • 12,500nm range
Octopus is perfect for true long-range exploration in the utmost luxury and comfort

The 126.2m/414'1" 'Octopus' expedition yacht built by the German shipyard Lurssen is available for charter for up to 12 guests in 13 cabins. This yacht features interior styling by American designer Jonathan Quinn Barnett.

Built in 2003, Octopus is made for thrilling adventure and exploration in the most remote places around the globe. She is equipped with a helipad, movie theatre, spa, elevator, underwater lights, beach club and gym.

Guest Accommodation

Octopus offers guest accommodation for up to 12 guests in 13 suites comprising a master suite and twelve double cabins. The supremely spacious full beam master suite benefits from a his and her bathroom. A crew of forty-two, who specialize in creating exceptional charters, are on hand to provide guests with a yacht charter vacation to remember.

Onboard Comfort & Entertainment

On your charter, you'll find plenty to keep you busy and entertained, particularly a dancefloor where you and your guests can celebrate in style. For those looking to unwind after a long day of exploration on the water, you will find a dedicated and comfortable movie theatre. Soothe tired limbs and reinvigorate yourself in the sauna plus take the opportunity to be thoroughly pampered and indulged in the spa. Take a plunge in the pool under the sun and in addition head to the beach club and take advantage of indoor-outdoor living and entertaining. A gym with all the latest equipment is available for a good work out or retreat to the deck jacuzzi and soak up the scenery.

Octopus benefits from some excellent features to improve your charter, particularly an elevator, making any part of the yacht quickly and easily accessible. Seamlessly travel from land to see thanks to the helipad plus satellite communication systems keep you in touch wherever you voyage. At night, guests can enjoy a mesmerizing light spectacle in the water thanks to underwater lights and in addition with Wi-Fi connectivity you don't have to lose contact with the outside world, unless you want to. Guests will experience complete comfort while chartering thanks to air conditioning.

Performance & Range

Built with a steel hull and steel superstructure, she offers greater on-board space and is more stable when at anchor thanks to her full-displacement hull. Powered by 8 x MTU engines, she comfortably cruises at 12 knots, reaches a maximum speed of 19 knots with a range of up to 12,500 nautical miles from her 1,034,000 litre fuel tanks at cruising speed. An advanced stabilisation system on board reduces the side-to-side roll of the yacht and promises guests exceptional comfort levels at anchor or when underway.

Onboard Octopus has a large selection of toys and accessories to keep you and your guests entertained on the water throughout your stay. Take to the sea on a Jet Ski offering you power and control on the water. You'll be loving the huge adrenaline rush as you zip over the water on one of the four Yamaha FX140 WaveRunners. In addition there are towable toys offering fun and adventure. If that isn't enough Octopus also features waterskis, a Kite Surfer, kayaks, WindSurfers, fishing equipment and much more. When it comes to Tenders, Octopus has you covered - with five tenders, including a 18.1m/59'5" Delta Powerboats Tender.

Octopus is available upon request for charter this winter. She is already accepting bookings this summer for cruising in Northern Europe.

Showcasing meticulous craftsmanship coupled with high-end luxurious finishes, expedition yacht Octopus certainly has the "wow" factor, along with state-of-the-art amenities and array of water toys, promising truly unforgettable yacht charters for even the most discerning guests.

TESTIMONIALS

There are currently no testimonials for Octopus, please provide .

Octopus Photos

Octopus Yacht 11

Amenities & Entertainment

For your relaxation and entertainment Octopus has the following facilities, for more details please speak to your yacht charter broker.

Octopus is reported to be available to Charter with the following recreation facilities:

  • 1 x 18.1m  /  59'5 Delta Powerboats 54' Tender
  • 1 x 9.34m  /  30'8 Vikal Custom Limo Tender with 2 x 260 HP engines
  • 2 x 8.7m  /  28'7 Zodiac Custom Tender
  • 2 x 5.8m  /  19' Zodiac Milpro MK-V Tender Volvo 70 HP engine
  • 1 x 4.7m  /  15'5 Zodiac RIB

For a full list of all available amenities & entertainment facilities, or price to hire additional equipment please contact your broker.

  • + shortlist

For a full list of all available amenities & entertainment facilities, or price to hire additional equipment please contact your broker.

'Octopus' Charter Rates & Destinations

Northern Europe Summer Cruising Region

Summer Season

May - September

$2,200,000 p/week + expenses

High Season

Cruising Regions

Northern Europe Norway

Winter Season

October - April

Please enquire .

Charter Octopus

To charter this luxury yacht contact your charter broker , or we can help you.

To charter this luxury yacht contact your charter broker or

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where is the superyacht octopus

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where is the superyacht octopus

One of the largest and most spectacular examples of a full-fledged yachting and exploration vessel, 126-meter Octopus is equipped with highly sophisticated technology. Espen Øino International designed the striking exterior with a blue and white hull and superstructure, featuring two helipads and a hangar aft. The superyacht is capable of exploration and scientific research voyages requiring months at sea. One of her key features is an integrated dock for both the principal 20-meter guest tender and two submarines for exploring marine life, one of which is remotely controlled for reaching greater depths. Octopus also houses a professional music studio and a grandiose cinema, created by interior designer Jonathan Quinn Barnett.

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Inside the Octopus, the Luxury 414-Foot Superyacht With a Submarine

You might have thought the coronavirus pandemic—or perhaps the billionaires' space race —would have distracted the super-wealthy from shopping for shiny baubles. Not when it comes to luxury yachts , according to Boat International .

The industry magazine reported last December that 1,024 were being built or had been ordered—an increase of almost 25 percent on the previous year's numbers. If you were to line up the vessels set to be delivered by 2026, there would be more than 24 miles of them.

Among them is the REV Ocean , a research and expedition vessel commissioned by Norwegian billionaire Kjell Inge Røkke. It will be 182.9 meters (600 feet) in length—longer than the current biggest superyacht in the world, Azzam, which is owned by the ruler of Abu Dhabi.

Ocean is expected to be launched in 2024 and will be available for charter part time, when it's not conducting scientific research. If you're interested in chartering a yacht now, though, what's the biggest one you can get?

Inside The Octopus Superyacht

The Three Largest Yachts You Can Charter

Some of the billionaires who commission superyachts prefer not to make their favorite toys available to the public. But there are plenty of large and lavish vessels you can charter for a princely sum. The top three, according to Jacqui Lockhart, Europe head of charter marketing for luxury yacht firm Camper & Nicholsons, are:

  • Flying Fox from Imperial Yachts, 136 meters (446 feet)
  • Octopus from Camper & Nicholsons, 126.2 meters (414 feet)
  • Lana from Imperial Yachts, 107 meters (351 feet)

Lockhart told Newsweek that Octopus has only recently become available for charter. It was built for Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, who died in 2018 . The vessel was sold by Allen's estate last year and its new owner is reportedly Swedish billionaire Roger Samuelsson.

The Octopus superyacht is 126 meters long.

"She came on the market at the end of last year," Lockhart said. "I was just recently on board the Octopus in Panama. I have to admit, I've never seen anything like it in all my years in yachting."

Inside the Octopus

For years after its launch in 2003, the Octopus was off limits to everyone but Allen and his guests. Now anyone who wants to charter the megayacht, built by the German company Lürssen, can do so—as long as they can pay upwards of $2.2 million per week. For that sum, you and 11 other guests can enjoy eight decks of extravagant amenities including:

  • Seven tenders
  • Two helipads
  • A submarine for underwater exploration
  • An oceanographic hub for "explorers searching for lost shipwrecks and maritime artefacts"
  • On-deck swimming pool
  • Gym and wellness area
  • Observation lounge
  • A glass-bottomed aquarium

The Octopus comes with two helipads.

The accommodation includes a master suite (with private elevator and observation deck), two VIP apartments, seven double bedrooms and three twin staterooms.

"She has a ratio of 12 guests for just over 42 crew, which is quite exceptional," said Lockhart. "It's just the perfect yacht for exploration. She was built for cruising and exploration. She's been set up to be self-sufficient to go to remote areas, which is quite special."

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The Camper & Nicholsons website states that the Octopus has a maximum speed of roughly 19 knots and an ice-class hull. This means it can be chartered for winter cruises to Antarctica —an option that is increasingly popular, according to Lockhart.

"Certainly the larger yachts are more open to doing more extensive cruising and more remote destinations. Clients seem to want to be able to take their families to go to these destinations," she said.

More Megayachts

The largest yacht available for charter is the Flying Fox , according to Lockhart. The 136-meter vessel can accommodate up to 25 guests in 11 cabins, all of which have private sea-view terraces.

Flying Fox , which was built by Lürssen and launched in 2019, has amenities including a 12-meter swimming pool, a two-story spa and a professional diving center. Chartering it will cost upwards of $3.2 million a week from Imperial Yachts.

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No 3 on the list is Imperial's Lana . Built by Italian company Benetti and launched in 2020, Lana can house up to 12 guests and costs upwards of $1.9 million per week.

Newsweek has reached out to Imperial Yachts for comment.

One of The Octopus's eight decks.

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Motor Yacht

Octopus is a 126.20m (414.04ft) motor yacht, custom built in 2003 and last refitted in 2008.

One of the largest and most spectacular examples of a full-fledged yachting and exploration vessel, 126-meter Octopus is equipped with highly sophisticated technology.

Espen Øino International designed the striking exterior with a blue and white hull and superstructure, featuring two helipads and a hangar aft.

The superyacht is capable of exploration and scientific research voyages requiring months at sea. One of her key features is an integrated dock for both the principal 20-meter guest tender and two submarines for exploring marine life, one of which is remotely controlled for reaching greater depths.

Octopus also houses a professional music studio and a grandiose cinema, created by interior designer Jonathan Quinn Barnett.

With a permanent berth in the International Yacht Club Marina in Antibes, this giant is owned by Microsoft Co-Founder Paul Allen. With a full-time crew of 60 including former Navy Seals, maintenance and salaries on the ship cost a rumoured $200 million. Octopus is well-known for hosting famous faces onboard its well-equipped decks, serviced only by world leaders in their fields.

  • Yacht Builder Lurssen Yachts View profile
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  • Exterior Designer Espen Oeino View profile
  • Interior Designer Jonathan Quinn Barnett No profile available

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Octopus Yacht Uncovered: An Insider’s Look at the Luxury Yacht

Ian Fortey

Launched back in the year 2003, the Octopus yacht was built by famous shipyard Lurssen out of Germany. Lurssen has been behind numerous other superyachts such as Kismet and Dilbar and many more. The exterior design was handled by Espen Øino Naval Architects while the interior was handled by American designer Jonathan Quinn Barnett.

Who Owns the Octopus Yacht?

where is the superyacht octopus

The Octopus yacht was owned by Paul Allen, the co-founder of Microsoft. In addition to being a private pleasure yacht for Allen, the Octopus has served a variety of purposes over the years thanks to him loaning it out. It has served as an exploration vessel, been used for scientific research and has even seen use as a rescue vessel.

Allen died in 2018 and at that time the yacht underwent a refit at Blohm + Voss. In 2019 it was put on sale for a price of €295 million. The price was dropped by about 60 million and in 2021 it was picked up by an anonymous buyer. However, the anonymity didn’t last long and it was later revealed that Swedish billionaire Roger Samuelsson.

How Big is the Octopus Motor Yacht?

where is the superyacht octopus

The Octopus more than qualifies as a superyacht coming in at an incredible 126.2 meters or 414 feet. While the largest yachts in the world are over 500 feet, the Octopus is clearly massive and could rightly be labeled a megayacht and one of the world’s largest yachts as well.

Aside from the incredible length of the vessel, it features a beam just shy of 69 feet across. The gross tonnage is 9,932.

How Much Did the Yacht Octopus Cost?

where is the superyacht octopus

Paul Allen purchased the Octopus back in 2003. At that time the vessel cost him $200 million. Adjusted for inflation, that would work out to about $327 million by today, clearly making this one of the more expensive yachts in the world. That said, it still doesn’t meet the bar for one of the most expensive yachts ever by quite a bit.

Can You Charter the Octopus Yacht?

The Octopus is available for charter through the yacht firm Camper and Nicholsons but it’s definitely not available for most budgets. We’ve covered other yachts before that are owned by billionaires and are available for charter at some steep prices that often range around $1.2 million per week. The Octopus goes to the next level. 

You can charter the Octopus for about $2.2 million per week and that doesn’t include expenses. So you’ll be paying for things like food and fuel separately. Suffice it to say that this is not a charter for everyone but the option is there. 

Is the Octopus Yacht for Sale?

where is the superyacht octopus

After its initial purchase in 2003 the Octopus was not available for sale until 2019 after owner Paul Allen passed away. There are currently some websites that claim the Octopus is for sale now and you can make an offer but the reliability of those sites is unknown and they do list the previous sale price from 2019 so they may not be current.

How Fast is the Octopus Yacht and What Engines Does it Use?

where is the superyacht octopus

The Octopus has a cruising speed listed at 12.5 knots and a top speed listed at 19 knots. This is provided thanks to 8 MTU diesel engines that can generate a total of 19,200 hp. The yacht has an impressive range of up to 12,500 nautical miles at cruising speed thanks to her 1,034,000 liter fuel tanks 

What’s the Octopus Yacht Interior Like?

where is the superyacht octopus

The Octopus covers eight decks and has room on board for a total of 26 guests and 63 crew. The guests can find accommodations in a full-beam master suite, two VIP suites, seven double rooms and three twins, one with an additional single bed.

The master suite is on a dedicated owner’s deck and features a king size bed, his and hers en suite bathrooms and a private observation deck that includes an al fresco dining area. There’s also a private bar and Jacuzzi There is also an owner exclusive private elevator for use. 

For years the details of the interior were a closely guarded secret while Paul Allen was still the owner. In fact, designer Espen Oeino said that this was the first yacht that ever required him to sign an NDA to keep its design secret. Since then he’s signed many more, but the Octopus was where it started. However, since Allen’s passing and the sale of the yacht, the transition to a vessel available for charter has allowed us to learn a lot more about the Octopus and its amenities and entertainment facilities.

Features and Amenities

where is the superyacht octopus

The Octopus is an ice-class exploration yacht so it can go where many other luxury yachts cannot. It has two helipads as well as garages to house two helicopters. In addition, guests can find the following on board.

  • There’s a large swimming pool to the aft of the yacht on the main deck. It features numerous loungers and its own cocktail bar. There’s also a retractable glass floor that covers the pool when not in use.
  • A dance floor for parties
  • A movie theater
  • A well equipped gym for working out
  • A relaxation spa that includes a sauna
  • A large indoor/outdoor beach club area
  • A large deck Jacuzzi
  • A glass bottomed observation lounge
  • A well-stocked library for those evenings when you want to curl up with a good book

where is the superyacht octopus

For those who want to have some more intense fun out on the water, the Octopus has a number of toys that can be used.

  • 59’5” Delta Powerboats 54′ Tender
  • 30’8” Vikal Custom Limo Tender with a pair of 260 HP engines
  • A 10-person submarine named Pagoo which we’ll talk more about shortly
  • A dive center with a hyperbaric chamber and scuba gear
  • A large swim platform
  • A diving platform
  • 4 separate 2 seat Yamaha FX140 Waverunners
  • 2 separate 2 Person Hobie Pursuit Kayaks
  • An Epic V5 Kayak
  • 3 Windsurfers for a range of skill levels
  • A stand up Yamaha jet ski
  • 3 surfboards
  • Kite surfers 
  • Water skis and a variety of towable toys 
  • Snorkeling gear
  • Fishing gear

Octopus Rescue Work

where is the superyacht octopus

The Octopus also features a not entirely typical on board submarine and also a very rare ROV or remote operated vehicle which is essentially a remote control sub. These had been used a number of times on rescue operations when Paul Allen owned the vessel.

The sub and ROV were used to help find a pilot and two officers who vanished off the coast of Palau, and even aided the Royal Navy in finding the bell from the HMS Hood which sank off of Denmark in WWII.

The Octopus has also aided in scientific research, most notably when researchers were studying coelacanth, a species of prehistoric fish thought to have been extinct for millions of years. 

What is the Octopus Yacht Deck Plan?

where is the superyacht octopus

You can see the full deck plans here. The Octopus was designed to feature some things you would never expect to find on a yacht. For instance, it had a fully equipped recording studio where the band U2 did some recording. The studio also hosted Usher, Mick Jagger and Joss Stone. However, the studio has since been replaced with a bar and lounge area.

In addition to the studio the yacht was designed with a storm cabin to help minimize the effects of bad weather and a full medical center in case of emergencies. Many of these features no longer exist since the retrofit after Paul Allen’s death.

One extremely unique feature is the central clock. Braided stainless-steel shrouds from a sailing vessel were strung on either side of the grand staircase from lower to upper deck. The designer enlisted the aid of a 102-year-old German clock making company to help bring the idea to life. It also uses digital audio software so that on a regular basis the strings can play snippets from literally any song to indicate the passage of time.

The Bottom Line

The Octopus yacht was once owned by Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen until his death in 2018. Afterwards, some of the yacht was redesigned and it was sold for close to $300 million to Swedish billionaire Roger Samuelsson. 

The Octopus is a massive exploration yacht measuring 414 feet making it large but nowhere near as big as something like the massive Azzam . It has been used for scientific research and rescue missions in the past and is now available for charter though at a steep price.

While it has many of the expected amenities of luxury yachts it also features some more exotic fare like the minisub with room for 8 passengers and two crew, as well as a stunning array of toys and other features.

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My grandfather first took me fishing when I was too young to actually hold up a rod on my own. As an avid camper, hiker, and nature enthusiast I'm always looking for a new adventure.

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Paul Allen’s 414-Foot Superyacht ‘Octopus’ Will Be Available for Charter in Antarctica This Winter

Camper & nicholsons has designed a seven-day tour for intrepid explorers to see the southernmost continent., demetrius simms, demetrius simms's most recent stories.

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Octopus Superyacht at Sea

Paul Allen’s megayacht Octopus created serious waves when it was launched back in 2003. It’s one of the world’s largest vessels, after all. Now, for the first time, the epic 414-footer will be available for exclusive charter in Antarctica .

The late Microsoft co-founder’s beautiful behemoth, which was added to the Camper & Nicholsons charter fleet back in 2021, will spend the summer in Central America, Northern Europe and the Pacific, before journeying to the Earth’s southernmost continent in late 2022. From here, the UK-based yachting company’s seven-day Antarctica tour will allow intrepid explorers to come face to face with some of the most breathtaking natural wonders.

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Covering an array of notable destinations, from King George Island to the Gerlache Strait to Deception Island, the itinerary is packed with ski tours, polar plunges, scenic hikes and more. You’ll also have the chance to see Antarctic fur seals, humpback whales and penguins, while contributing to wildlife conservation with locally based scientists.

Octopus Superyacht Pool

A look at the ship’s pool, jacuzzi and deck.  Courtesy of Camper & Nicholsons

As you might expect, seafarers will be kept in the lap of luxury while aboard Octopus. The ice-class megayacht, which was designed by Espen Oeino , comes fitted with an array of glitzy amenities, including a glass-bottomed aquarium, an observation lounge, a pool, gym, spa and cinema. The vessel also sports two helipads to facilitate comings and goings, along with an array of toys and tenders for day trips and further exploration.

Jonathan Quinn Barnett ‘s interior, meanwhile, which was refit by Monk Design in 2021, comprises multiple dining areas and bars, along with an extravagant master suite, two VIP suites, seven double staterooms and three twins. Naturally, there’s plenty of space for the crew, too.

“She’s the perfect yacht to undertake such a voyage,” Jacqui Lockhart, head of charter marketing Europe for Camper & Nicholsons, said in a statement . “She’s well-equipped to host intrepid charterers off the beaten track with a fully equipped medical suite and dive center on board—complete with hyperbaric chamber—as well as a submarine and two helipads.”

Octopus Superyacht VIP Bedroom

One of the VIP bedrooms on board the Octopus .  Courtesy of Camper & Nicholsons

Octopus has an impressive range of 12,500 nautical miles when sailing at 12 knots and can clock 19 knots when cutting through the sea at maximum speed. Allen, who was an avid ocean explorer, took the vessel to the farthest corners of the globe to further oceanographic research. Now you can make your own discoveries. Charter rates start at $2.2 million per week.

Check out more images below:

Octopus Superyacht Deck

Courtesy of Camper & Nicholsons

Octopus Superyacht Pool Close-Up

Demetrius Simms is a digital staff writer at Robb Report. After starting their career in PR, they transitioned to freelance writing in 2020. Their work has now appeared in lifestyle and culture…

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OCTOPUS Yacht – $285M Superyacht For Charter

Measuring in at an impressive length of 126.2 meters the OCTOPUS yacht is the 21st largest yacht in the world.

With an estimated worth of $285 million, her owner is currently unknown.

This stunning vessel can comfortably accommodate up to 26 guests while having a crew of 57 on hand to cater to their needs.

Powered by Mercedes Diesel engines she can reach speeds up to 20 knots.

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OCTOPUS yacht interior

The OCTOPUS yacht inter offers space for up to 26 guests in 13 cabins, including a spacious owner’s cabin and deck.

A well-trained crew of up to 63 crew members provides 5-star service onboard this luxury vessel.

OCTOPUS’ interior has several bars distributed across the different decks, a fully equipped spa, a cinema, a gym, a library, and even a basketball court.

The interior was designed by Jonathan Quinn Barnett, a well-known superyacht designer from Seattle, Washington.

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OCTOPUS Boat Specifications

With a length of 126.20 meters (414 ft) and a beam of 21 meters (68 ft), the OCTOPUS yacht weighs in at an impressive 9,900 gross tons.

She is powered by 8 MTU engines producing a total of 19,200 hp (14,300 kW).

Her maximum speed lies at 19 knots, while her relatively slow cruising speed of 12 knots allows her to have a range of 12,500 nautical miles.

OCTOPUS is also equipped with the latest anchor and steering technology, which helps to maneuver the vessel.

OCTOPUS yacht has two helipads, one at the stern with its own hangar and one at the bow.

She has a total of seven tenders, one of which is 13 meters long and can almost be considered its own yacht.

The OCTOPUS superyacht also has two submarines on board, one of which is remotely controlled while the other can accommodate eight people.

The internal dock of the megayacht can be used to dry lay vessels of up to 20 meters for possible repairs. The mega yacht also has a large pool on deck as well as a jacuzzi and a spacious beach club.

The onboard elevator system ensures that guests and crew can move quickly between the eight decks.

For the entertainment of the guests, the yacht carries scuba diving equipment, jet skis, and other water toys.

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OCTOPUS Price & Charter

The former owner of the OCTOPUS superyacht paid a price of US $200 million for the yacht in 2003 and she generates annual running costs between US $20 and 35 million.

As of 2022, OCTOPUS is available for charter for the first time ever since her launch. She costs approximately 2.2 Million Euro’s per week.

In 2022 in Summer she will be available in Central America and the Pacific while in Winter she will be in Antarctica.

For 2023 she will be located in the Mediterranean and the weekly rate is expected to remain the same.

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IMAGES

  1. Take a look inside the 126m superyacht Octopus

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  2. Paul Allen superyacht Octopus finally sells after being listed for

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  3. Octopus

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  4. Inside Octopus: Origin story of the 126m superyacht finally revealed

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  5. [New Pictures] Inside the 126 Metre Lürssen Superyacht Octopus

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  6. Paul Allen's Superyacht Octopus Docking in London

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VIDEO

  1. Octopus

  2. OPERA yacht

  3. "Octopus" megayacht Microsoft founder Paul Allen at Monaco F1 now Swedish Pharma Billionaire owned

  4. Exploring the Octopus: A Journey Through the Luxurious World of a Billionaire's Superyacht

  5. OCTOPUS

  6. Stunning exterior video footage of 55 meter superyacht in Seattle

COMMENTS

  1. Octopus (yacht)

    Octopus. (yacht) Octopus is a 126-metre (413 ft) megayacht built for Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen. She is one of the world's largest yachts. Launched in 2003 at a cost of $200 million, [1] Octopus is a private vessel that has been loaned out for exploration projects, scientific research and rescue missions. [2]

  2. OCTOPUS Yacht • Roger Samuelsson $285M SuperYacht

    Octopus Yacht: A Feat of Luxury and Engineering Excellence. The breathtaking yacht Octopus, renowned as one of the world's largest yachts, is a masterpiece crafted by the esteemed Lurssen Yachts.This magnificent sea giant was formerly owned by the billionaire Microsoft co-founder, Paul Allen.The motor yacht is powered by top-tier Mercedes diesel engines, offering a maximum speed of 20 knots ...

  3. Octopus: Behind the build of Paul Allen's 126m Lürssen explorer

    Behind the build of Paul Allen's 126m Lürssen explorer Octopus. The barest of details have been revealed about the mysterious Octopus over the past 19 years. But with a new owner and on the charter market for the first time, the 126-metre Lürssen is finally ready to reveal her secrets past and present, says Laura Nicholls.

  4. Octopus: New pictures of Lürssen's 126m explorer

    Commissioned by Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, Octopus was built in steel by German yard Lürssen and delivered in 2003. At the time of her launch, she was easily the largest explorer yacht ever built and heralded a new era of superyachts built to travel to the ends of the earth, equipped with scientific and research equipment and all the little (and not-so-little) luxuries expected of a ...

  5. The story of Paul Allen's 126m Lürssen superyacht Octopus

    Iconic yachts: On board Paul Allen's 126m Lürssen superyacht Octopus. When the late Paul Allen's Octopus was launched in 2003, she stood alone in the yachting world. At 126m length, she was easily the largest explorer yacht ever built, and one of the biggest yachts outright. But in many ways, she heralded a new era of owning very large boats ...

  6. OCTOPUS Yacht Charter Price

    Octopus is perfect for true long-range exploration in the utmost luxury and comfort. The 126.2m/414'1" 'Octopus' expedition yacht built by the German shipyard Lurssen is available for charter for up to 12 guests in 13 cabins. This yacht features interior styling by American designer Jonathan Quinn Barnett. Explorer yacht Octopus is the ultimate ...

  7. Bespoke exploration superyacht Octopus, custom-built for scientific

    The superyacht is capable of exploration and scientific research voyages requiring months at sea. One of her key features is an integrated dock for both the principal 20-meter guest tender and two submarines for exploring marine life, one of which is remotely controlled for reaching greater depths. Octopus also houses a professional music ...

  8. Inside the Octopus, the Luxury 414-Foot Superyacht With a Submarine

    The top three, according to Jacqui Lockhart, Europe head of charter marketing for luxury yacht firm Camper & Nicholsons, are: Flying Fox from Imperial Yachts, 136 meters (446 feet) Octopus from ...

  9. 126.2m Octopus Superyacht

    Octopus is a 126.20m (414.04ft) motor yacht, custom built in 2003 and last refitted in 2008. One of the largest and most spectacular examples of a full-fledged yachting and exploration vessel, 126-meter Octopus is equipped with highly sophisticated technology. Espen Øino International designed the striking exterior with a blue and white hull ...

  10. $280M Superyacht Tour

    The iconic explorer superyacht from Lürssen.Probably the greatest Tender Garage of them all! In addition to seven tenders, two liferafts, and an remotely ope...

  11. Paul Allen's Superyacht "Octopus" Finds Buyer After $278 Million

    The late Microsoft Corp. co-founder Paul Allen's 414-foot superyacht "Octopus," last offered for 235 million euros ($278 million), has been sold to an undisclosed buyer. The sale comes amid ...

  12. Paul Allen superyacht Octopus finally sells after being listed for

    A view of one helipad on Octopus. (Burgess Photo) Superyacht Times called Octopus a "true ocean explorer" with a 12,500 nautical miles range, and said to this day it is considered the world ...

  13. Octopus Yacht Uncovered: An Insider's Look at the Luxury Yacht

    The Octopus more than qualifies as a superyacht coming in at an incredible 126.2 meters or 414 feet. While the largest yachts in the world are over 500 feet, the Octopus is clearly massive and could rightly be labeled a megayacht and one of the world's largest yachts as well.. Aside from the incredible length of the vessel, it features a beam just shy of 69 feet across.

  14. Inside the Octopus Superyacht

    Built bigger, better, and dripping with luxury, superyachts can often feel like their own private hotel drifting through the ocean. But one, in particular, i...

  15. Paul Allen's superyacht Octopus

    Octopus, the 414-foot mega yacht which ranks as one of the world's largest, has been listed for $325 million. Allen, who died last October at age 65, took delivery of the vessel in 2003 and over ...

  16. Lurssen Octopus Superyacht: Features, Photos & Specifications

    guest. 13. cabin. 63. crew. «It will not be long before the legendary eight-deck» Octopus tops the list of the world's largest explorers, as it will soon be replaced by the REV over 180 meters long. The mega-yacht has also made her mark on history by participating in expeditions, such as the salvage of one of the famous warships of the Second ...

  17. Paul Allen's 414-Foot Superyacht 'Octopus' Will Be Available for

    Published on April 20, 2022. By Demetrius Simms. Courtesy of Camper & Nicholsons. Paul Allen's megayacht Octopus created serious waves when it was launched back in 2003. It's one of the world ...

  18. Octopus Yacht

    Octopus is a motor yacht with an overall length of m. The yacht's builder is Lürssen Yachts from Germany, who launched Octopus in 2003. The superyacht has a beam of m, a draught of m and a volume of . GT.. Octopus features exterior design by Espen Øino International and interior design by Jonathan Quinn Barnett Ltd. Up to 26 guests can be accommodated on board the superyacht, Octopus, and ...

  19. Inside $285 Million World's Largest Explorer Yacht

    Inside $285 Million World's Largest Explorer Yacht | OCTOPUS SUPERYACHTOctopus is a 126-metre megayacht built for Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen. She is one...

  20. Luxury Motor Yacht for Charter OCTOPUS

    The legendary Octopus is a formidable 126m superyacht. This proven world explorer is the ultimate luxury adventure, allowing intrepid dreams to become a reality. Now, for the first time ever, she is available for charter since her launch in 2003. For the audacious and daring, nothing is off limits. With an ice-class hull, two helipads, a huge ...

  21. Onboard Octopus: Interior of Paul Allen's legendary 126m superyacht

    Shots have now been unveiled onboard the 126.2-metre Lürssen superyacht Octopus, interiors of which have been revealed for the first time since her launch in 2003.The yacht, which once belonged to the late American business magnate Paul Allen, is about to embark on her first charter to Antarctica with Camper and Nicholsons, following her sale last year.

  22. OCTOPUS Yacht

    1. Measuring in at an impressive length of 126.2 meters the OCTOPUS yacht is the 21st largest yacht in the world. With an estimated worth of $285 million, her owner is currently unknown. This stunning vessel can comfortably accommodate up to 26 guests while having a crew of 57 on hand to cater to their needs. Powered by Mercedes Diesel engines ...

  23. The $200M Octopus Superyacht With A Hidden Submarine

    Check out this insane superyacht known as the Octopus yacht!Subscribe for more amazing videos! http://bit.ly/Subscribe-to-Richest Written by: Anna GraceNa...