In October 2024, and again in May 2025, Cape Town played host to one of the most impressive vessels afloat: the superyacht Blue. She's a floating palace and a feat of engineering, and she turned heads all along the waterfront. Here's a closer look at what makes Blue so remarkable and what her visits meant for the Mother City.
Blue is a showcase of modern yacht design. At 160 metres long, she's one of the five largest yachts in the world by length. She was built by the German shipyard Lürssen and delivered in 2022, with interiors by the British designer Terence Disdale. She belongs to Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan of the United Arab Emirates, and she can carry 48 guests, looked after by a crew of around 80. Her long, clean lines and the technology on board make her stand out even in a marina full of superyachts.
Inside is where Blue really shines. The rooms are finished in fine materials and every space feels both lavish and comfortable. Across her many decks you'll find:
Blue isn't only about luxury. Her navigation systems are the latest available, keeping voyages safe and smooth, and advanced stabilisers cut down the rolling at sea so guests stay comfortable even when the swell picks up.
In step with modern environmental standards, Blue uses several greener technologies. She has an efficient hybrid propulsion system that cuts emissions and fuel use, and a water treatment system that reduces her impact on the ocean.
With its dramatic coastline and lively culture, Cape Town made the perfect backdrop for Blue. Her arrival in the harbour drew locals and tourists down to the V&A Waterfront to take a look. While she was here, guests could take in everything the city has to offer, from Table Mountain to the historic waterfront itself.
Her visits also added a touch of glamour to the city and put Cape Town on the map as a serious stop for luxury yachts. Local businesses, especially in hospitality and tourism, benefited from the wealthy visitors who came to see her or were staying on board.
A visit from a yacht like this usually has a knock-on effect for the local economy. Blue's stays most likely meant serious spending in the area, from provisioning and fuel to high-end shopping and restaurants. They also showed that Cape Town can look after superyachts properly, which could bring more of them our way in future.
Blue is more than a luxury boat. She shows what people can build when they chase excellence. Her visits gave Cape Town a glimpse into the world of superyachts and the lifestyle that goes with them. Wherever she sails next, she has left the city with a stronger reputation as a world-class yachting destination.
1. What makes Superyacht Blue stand out among other yachts?
Her sheer size, 160 metres, puts her among the five longest yachts in the world. Add the luxury on board, the latest technology and greener features, and she's in a league of her own.
2. How did Superyacht Blue impact Cape Town's local economy?
Her visits brought spending to local businesses, from provisioning services to high-end shops and restaurants, all of which benefits Cape Town's economy.
3. What environmentally friendly technologies does Superyacht Blue use?
She uses a hybrid propulsion system to cut emissions and fuel use, and a water treatment system to reduce her environmental footprint.
4. What amenities can guests enjoy on Superyacht Blue?
Spacious suites, several dining areas, a cinema room, a gym, a spa, an infinity pool and plenty of water toys.
5. How did the presence of Superyacht Blue highlight Cape Town as a yachting destination?
She brought some glamour to the city and showed that Cape Town can cater for superyachts, which could attract more of them in future.
You don't need a 160-metre yacht to see Cape Town from the water. Read our story on the Mirage Catamaran, or pick from the boats you can book today. A sunset champagne cruise from the V&A is R720 per adult. For something more private, Princess Emma is a 12-guest luxury motor yacht at R20,867 an hour (3-hour minimum). Our Cape Town yacht hire price guide compares the whole fleet.
Read more at Luxury Yacht Charters.
