Paul Allen's Lavish Yacht Is Now Available For Charter
As the co-founder of Microsoft and one of the leading minds in the microcomputer revolution, it comes as no surprise that Paul Allen became a multimillionaire thanks to the success of his innovations. His extensive investment portfolio included shares in major sports teams such as the Portland Trailblazers, Seattle Seahawks, and Seattle Sounders as well as multiple real estate holdings, private space flight ventures, and of course, his 414-foot superyacht. Put up for sale following Allen's untimely passing in 2018, this superyacht, equipped with two helipads and a glass-bottomed underwater lounge, is now available for charter. Let's get the lowdown on this magnificent vessel and see what awaits those who have the good fortune of strutting aboard.
The Octopus
Launched in 2003, Allen purchased the superyacht known as The Octopus for around $200 million. 414 feet long, this monstrous vessel has eight decks, a basketball court, movie theatre, pool, recording studio, and of course, an elevator to help passengers access its many resources. “I felt as though I was on a spaceship,” Allen recalled of the first time he stepped on the yacht. "All my passions come together in one movable feast.” Naturally, upon purchasing The Octopus, Allen was quick to make the most of his new toy.
Star-studded events
Throughout the years that Allen owned the yacht, The Octopus was spotted in a variety of locations across the world. The list is not limited to London, Turkey, Hong Kong, and Argentina. But even when he wasn't traveling the world, Allen used his yacht to host lavish parties, inviting an endless list of Hollywood celebrities to join him for many unforgettable evenings. Allen is remembered for going all out when hosting his star-studded themed yacht parties at the Cannes International Film Festival each year, with the likes of George Lucas, Mick Jagger, and Chloe Sevigny in attendance. Some of the themes over the years included Shakespeare's "A Midsummer Night's Dream" and a Bollywood party, where professional dancers went all out putting on a show for guests. Sadly, all of that came to an end after Allen's passing. With the yacht put up for sale, the world watched in wonder to see who the next owner of The Octopus would be.
Up for sale
In 2019, the 414-foot-long vessel was put up for sale, listed for a colossal price tag of $325 million. With no eager buyers stepping forward, the price dropped to $278 million. Finally, as 2021 was winding to a close, a willing buyer stepped forward, as was confirmed by Burgess and Fraser Yachts who marketed the yacht. Unlike their predecessor, Camper & Nicholsons had other ideas for The Octopus...
A new purpose
With a 12,500 nautical miles range, The Octopus is believed to be the largest superyacht in the world. Considering this feat, it makes sense for this vessel to serve a higher purpose than being one individual's personal yacht. Intriguingly, the new owners did exactly this. The Octopus became the newest addition of the Camper & Nicholsons charter fleet, ready to bring unforgettable experiences to travelers far and wide.