The $500 Million Megayacht Empire: 7 Shocking Facts About Jeff Bezos' Koru And Its Shadow Vessel

Jeff Bezos' superyacht, *Koru*, is not just a boat; it is a three-masted, 417-foot monument to wealth that has reshaped the landscape of luxury sailing. Delivered in April 2023, this colossal vessel, whose name means 'new beginnings' in Māori, has captured global attention not only for its staggering size and estimated $500 million price tag but also for the controversies and logistical challenges it presents on the world's oceans. The *Koru* is almost always accompanied by its dedicated 75-meter support vessel, *Abeona*, forming a floating, two-ship private armada. This article, updated for late 2025, delves into the freshest details, specifications, and recent movements of the *Koru* and *Abeona*, providing a deep dive into the most talked-about private sailing yacht in the world today. From its unique design features to its recent sightings on the French Riviera and in the Mediterranean, the story of Bezos' maritime empire is one of unprecedented scale and luxury.

The Colossal Specifications of the S/Y Koru and M/Y Abeona

The scale of Jeff Bezos' maritime venture is best understood by looking at the raw numbers. The acquisition of the *Koru* and its accompanying support vessel, *Abeona*, represents one of the largest private yachting projects in history, demanding the expertise of two of the world’s most prestigious shipbuilders: Oceanco and Damen Yachting.

• Yacht Name: Koru (Sailing Yacht)
• Meaning: 'New Beginnings' (Māori)
• Owner: Jeff Bezos (Amazon Founder)
• Builder: Oceanco (Netherlands)
• Delivery Date: April 2023
• Length: 127 meters (417 feet)
• Type: Three-Masted Sailing Superyacht
• Gross Tonnage (Volume): Approximately 3,300 tons
• Estimated Value: $250 million – $500 million (The $500M figure is widely cited)
• Annual Running Cost: Estimated $20–25 million
• Notable Feature: A large, figurehead-style wooden mermaid sculpture on the bow, reportedly resembling fiancée Lauren Sánchez.

The *Koru* is widely considered the largest sailing yacht in the world, a title that speaks volumes about its engineering and design.

The Essential Shadow: M/Y Abeona Support Vessel

A yacht of *Koru*'s size and complexity requires a dedicated support system, which comes in the form of the motor yacht *Abeona*. This 'shadow yacht' is not a mere tender; it is a fully-equipped vessel designed to carry the heavy equipment, toys, and additional personnel that the sailing yacht cannot accommodate.

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• Support Vessel Name: Abeona (Motor Yacht)
• Builder: Damen Yachting (Netherlands)
• Length: 75 meters (246 feet)
• Type: Yacht Support Vessel (YSV 7512)
• Former Project Name: Project WINGMAN
• Estimated Value: $75 million
• Key Features: A certified helipad for Bezos’ private helicopter, storage for tenders, jet skis, diving equipment, and additional accommodations for crew and security staff.

The *Abeona* ensures that the *Koru* remains uncluttered, allowing its decks to be dedicated solely to the luxury and relaxation of Bezos, Lauren Sánchez, and their guests.

Recent Sightings and Logistical Headaches of the Megayacht

Since its delivery, the *Koru* and *Abeona* have been a constant source of fascination for yacht spotters and the media, making high-profile appearances across some of the world's most exclusive destinations. The yacht's sheer size, however, has led to several notable logistical challenges.

The Cannes Film Festival 2025 Appearance:

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The *Koru* was one of the most prominent vessels spotted at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, anchored off the French Riviera. This sighting, often with Bezos and his fiancée Lauren Sánchez aboard, solidifies its status as a fixture in the global celebrity yachting circuit. Earlier in the year, the yacht was also seen making its way through the Mediterranean, including a stop in Mallorca.

The Fort Lauderdale Docking Dilemma:

In November 2024, the *Koru* sailed into Fort Lauderdale, Florida, only to encounter a significant problem: it was too large to dock at the intended facility. The crew quickly realized that the 417-foot vessel exceeded the capacity of the available docking space, a testament to the logistical difficulties that come with owning the world's largest sailing yacht.

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The Bridge Controversy That Shocked Rotterdam:

Perhaps the most controversial chapter in the *Koru*'s story occurred before it even touched the water. To allow the massive yacht to be towed from the Oceanco shipyard to the sea, the builders requested that the historic Koningshaven Bridge—known locally as De Hef—in Rotterdam be temporarily dismantled. This request sparked a major public outcry in the Netherlands, leading to the plan being ultimately scrapped. The *Koru* was instead towed out under the cover of darkness without its masts, avoiding the need to dismantle the iconic landmark.

The Symbolism and Design of Bezos' Sailing Superyacht

Unlike many billionaires who opt for traditional, motor-powered megayachts, Bezos' choice of a three-masted sailing yacht is a deliberate statement. The *Koru* is a nod to classic maritime tradition, combining the elegance of a tall ship with the cutting-edge technology of a modern superyacht.

The yacht’s design is defined by its towering masts and sleek hull, featuring five decks and a stunning, expansive exterior. The interior, while kept highly private, is expected to be a masterpiece of custom luxury, accommodating up to 18 guests and a crew of around 40, though the *Abeona* carries a significant portion of the staff. The choice of the name *Koru*, symbolizing new beginnings and a fresh start, is particularly poignant given Bezos’ transition from his role as Amazon CEO and his highly publicized relationship with Lauren Sánchez.

The most distinctive and photographed feature is the wooden mermaid figurehead on the bow. This elaborate carving, which adds a touch of mythic charm to the ultra-modern vessel, is reportedly a tribute to Sánchez, further intertwining the yacht with Bezos' personal life and public narrative.

The *Koru* and *Abeona* duo are more than just vessels; they are a floating metaphor for the scale of modern wealth, embodying a blend of historical nautical design and future-forward engineering, all while navigating the complex waters of public scrutiny and logistical challenges worldwide.