Yachts that have made history in the world of yachting

Yachts are not just symbols of luxury and elegance; they are also protagonists of extraordinary stories that have shaped the world of boating. From legendary vessels that succeeded in the most prestigious regattas to iconic yachts owned by famous personalities, each model embodies a unique blend of design, innovation, and pioneering spirit. In this article, we will explore some of the most famous yachts of all time, discovering how they have influenced the maritime industry and left an indelible mark on history.

The Treasures of the Sea: Classic Yachts

Boats of historical and artistic value—this is what we refer to when we talk about classic yachts: a blend of elegance, craftsmanship, and cutting-edge architecture. These antique vessels, built with fine materials and attention to every detail, tell stories of sea adventures, luxurious lives, and legendary voyages. Today, classic yachts rarely sail the seas, but they remain highly sought after by enthusiasts and collectors who continue to appreciate their historical value and timeless charm. Below are some of the most famous classic yachts.

Christina O

Built in 1943 by the River Class for the Canadian Navy, originally named HMCS Stormont, this vessel participated in World War II, taking part in the Battle of the Atlantic and D-Day. After the war, it was decommissioned in 1945 and purchased nine years later by Greek shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis for $34,000. Onassis then invested around $4 million to transform it into the luxurious yacht named Christina, dedicating it to his daughter and making it the most elegant and innovative yacht of its era.

The yacht featured 18 cabins, each named after a Greek island, and could accommodate up to 36 passengers. The owner's master suite was adorned with exquisite Venetian stuccoes and spanned an impressive 75 square meters. The dining room, furnished with hand-finished tables and marble floors, could host up to 40 guests, while the aft deck boasted a mosaic swimming pool that could be converted into a dance floor. Additionally, the panoramic deck featured a helicopter landing platform. Among the most notable guests that Christina O hosted over the years were Winston Churchill, Maria Callas, and Marilyn Monroe.

HMY Britannia

The Her Majesty’s Yacht Britannia was the official yacht of the British royal family from 1954 to 1997. It was the 83rd royal yacht used by the monarchy since the reign of King Charles II in 1660, and the second to bear the name Britannia, after the racing cutter built in 1893 for the Prince of Wales. During its 43 years of service, the Britannia sailed over one million nautical miles, docking in more than 600 ports across 135 countries. After its retirement from service, it was transformed into a permanent tourist attraction and is now docked at the Leith Maritime Terminal in Edinburgh, where it welcomes over 300,000 visitors each year.

Listed in the National Historic Fleet, the Britannia is managed by the Royal Yacht Britannia Trust, a charitable organization dedicated to its preservation. Today, the vessel represents not only a piece of royal history but also a symbol of luxury and prestige, offering visitors a unique insight into the life and travels of the British monarchy.

Over the Rainbow

Launched in 1930, this 34-meter yacht began its career sailing in the waters of the United Kingdom. During World War II, it was requisitioned by the Royal Navy and renamed HMS Corax, becoming a coastal patrol vessel. The officers aboard enjoyed spending their time playing darts, as evidenced by the marks still visible on the original Honduras mahogany panels.

After the conflict, Over the Rainbow crossed the Atlantic to sail in U.S. waters, before returning to the Mediterranean, where it was used as a floating casino until 2000. The yacht was later subjected to a meticulous restoration to bring it back to its former glory. This yacht also boasts a refined collection of books by authors such as Ernest Hemingway and has hosted famous personalities like Winston Churchill and Madonna, who even filmed a music video aboard. Currently, Over the Rainbow is available for charter, offering the opportunity to experience a vessel rich in history.

Malahne

Malahne is a luxury yacht in the Art Deco style, custom-built by Camper & Nicholsons for William Lawrence Stephenson, co-founder of the famous Woolworth chain in the UK. With a length of 53 meters, it was built in 1937 and spent its early years sailing the world’s seas. During World War II, Malahne served as a military vessel, participating in crucial operations such as the Dunkirk evacuation.

Later, the yacht became an icon among Hollywood's elite when it was purchased by Oscar-winning film producer Sam Spiegel. It hosted notable figures such as Elizabeth Taylor, Frank Sinatra, Jack Nicholson, Grace Kelly, and Kirk Douglas, further cementing its legendary fame. In the 1980s, Malahne was bought by a Saudi sheikh who modernized it, focusing on the accommodation spaces. However, the yacht fell into decline until the Edmiston company found a new owner eager to restore it. The restoration, carried out by the naval architects at Pendennis, brought the yacht back to its original splendor, blending historical elements with contemporary technology. The main salon is a tribute to 1937, featuring Baccarat crystal, Willer porcelain, and authentic silver cutlery, seamlessly integrated with fine wood paneling and massive furnishings.

Kalizma

The love story between Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor is renowned not only for their legendary films but also for the generous gifts Burton gave the actress as a token of his affection. In 1967, to celebrate Taylor's second Academy Award, her husband gifted her a luxury yacht, Kalizma, an acronym of Kate, Liza, and Maria—the names of Burton’s daughters. The yacht, measuring 45.7 meters, was no ordinary vessel but a vintage motor yacht launched in 1906 by the Ramage & Ferguson shipyard under the name Minona. It was one of the first yachts to be equipped with electric lighting and was used by the British Navy during both World Wars.

After the Burton-Taylor marriage ended, Kalizma changed hands several times until its current owner, captivated by its history, decided to restore it. The restoration project was managed by Palazzo Morelli, with supervision from Alessandro Ortenzi, who personally oversaw the work at the Colombo shipyard in Sri Lanka. Now available for charter, Kalizma can host up to ten guests, offering an experience that combines tradition, modern comfort, and the allure of Hollywood cinema.

Yachts that have marked the history of yachting are not only masterpieces of engineering and design but also symbols of innovation, luxury, and performance, leaving a significant mark on the world of yachting and the hearts of its enthusiasts. Today, Centro Italia is at the forefront of this industry, offering a wide range of personalized services for those who wish to experience a high-end vessel. Whether it's maintenance, refitting, or consultation, our team is ready to assist you in creating the yacht of your dreams, ensuring an unparalleled experience. You can contact us at the toll-free number 800 931 931, by emailing info@centroitaliayachting.com, or through the contact form below.