Octopussy was previously part of the impressive fleet of superyachts owned by multi-millionaire John Staluppi. Each of these superyachts was named after a James Bond movie. Octopussy, in particular, was not just a superyacht that Staluppi purchased and owned. It was actually his brainchild even before construction began. Staluppi played a crucial role in the project, both financially and in every other aspect that mattered.
Without Staluppi’s determination, Octopussy would not have come into existence. This superyacht was built by Heesen Yachts, utilizing a Heesen naval platform and featuring exterior and interior designs by Mulder Design. At the time of its launch, Octopussy became renowned for being the fastest superyacht in the world, reaching a top speed of 53.2 knots (61.2 mph/98.5 kph). The complex construction process that preceded this remarkable achievement further solidified its legendary status.
However, this was all in the late ’80s. Since its delivery in 1988, Octopussy has changed hands multiple times and undergone a few refits that compromised its original lightweight, highly efficient, and super-fast design. As owners added more luxurious features, it lost its title as the world’s fastest superyacht. Nevertheless, it remained a consistently popular choice for chartering.
During its most recent sale in 2021, Octopussy was a mere shadow of its former self and desperately in need of a makeover. The new owner brought the original team together for a refit, aiming to set a new world record as the most stable superyacht. This would be achieved through the implementation of a new propulsion system, stabilization system, and structural changes. Additionally, the brief included the installation of new interiors, a fresh paintjob, and the addition of a diving platform.
In May 2023, Octopussy arrived in Florida for the refit, with plans to be completed and delivered by late 2023 or early 2024. However, it seems that the refit is encountering further delays. Recent reports reveal that Octopussy appeared in Dubai earlier this month, showing signs of wear and tear and still far from being finished. The vessel has been stripped of all its equipment, including weather gear, engines, and anchor, and was transported to Dubai by tugboat.
At present, Octopussy is an empty hull, unable to navigate under its own power, and manned by a minimal crew of two. As depicted in the video below, the superyacht has sustained damage and has been patched up, indicating that the work that was supposed to be completed in the Florida shipyard was not finished.
The reasons behind the owner’s decision to continue the refit in Dubai remain uncertain. We can only hope that this legendary superyacht will continue to amaze in the future or, at the very least, be able to sail independently at a respectable speed once again. It certainly deserves this much.
According to the Source autoevolution.com