Coral Ocean Amid The Isles Of The Seychelles

A Year And A World Of Events With Lürssen

Another dive into Lürssen’s captivating portfolio, and amidst its masterpieces, the 72.5m Coral Ocean stands out as a beacon of innovation. Originally christened in 1994 as M/Y Coral Island, her impact reverberated throughout the yachting community. Thanks to Lürssen’s collaboration with the esteemed London-based Bannenberg & Rowell Design, Coral Ocean inherited a legacy that had already bloomed in 1971 with the iconic Carinthia VI and yet Coral Island under the mastery of designer Jon Bannenberg, known as the godfather of modern yacht design, continued raising the bar for both firms.

Although not the most colossal or the swiftest of Lürssen’s esteemed output, Coral Island’s design was nothing short of revolutionary. Her exceptional amenities, such as the spa with steam room, a gym, a window into its mosaic pool, and colossal shell doors that opened the salon to expansive sea views, harmonized luxury with nature. This, combined with an interior rich in organic materials like exotic woods, laced with influences from African and Polynesian cultures, made Coral Island a testament to impeccable craftsmanship.

Over the decades, Coral Island’s allure never waned. She pampered a very limited progression of owners and was much loved in return, being carefully maintained, her technology updated, and renamed Coral Ocean in that time. The two-year refit completed in 2022, an incredible transformation. A fresh new coat of paint and a new addition to the sundeck are highlights to be sure, as are all the many enhancements to outdoor living space, including inflatable ocean slide and additional pool, but her very persona has been elevated, with no expense spared, and no detail left incomplete. She is both luxurious and sophisticated while being eminently welcoming, her clean lines and expansive views beckon any discerning sailor.

Beyond her physical transformation, Coral Ocean’s spirit remains anchored in her genesis. Her interiors echo the vibrancy of the coral reefs and diminutive islets —a blend of serene whites, marine blues, and golden touches. The hallmark coral mosaics, now rendered in striking navy, symbolize her rebirth—powerful yet inviting.

Now, where better to unleash the full majesty of Coral Ocean than the Seychelles? This cluster of 115 islands, all within easy reach, off Africa’s eastern coast is a paradise for explorers, nature lovers, and solace-seekers alike. The archipelago, verdant with tropical forests, encircled by coral reefs, and bathed in impossibly turquoise waters, is nature’s masterpiece. Each island unfurls a tapestry of breathtaking vistas, vibrant marine life, and timeless charm.

Traditionally, NAVIS pairs yachts with annual events, but Coral Ocean paired with the Seychelles is an event in itself. However, those craving a structured calendar won’t be disappointed as the islands’ many charms continue to unfold before visitors. From regattas and fishing tournaments to windsurfing races, the Seychelles is a hub of nautical festivities. Of particular visual interest for divers and nature lovers are the stunning Port Launay Marine National Park on Mahé and the neighboring Sainte Anne Marine National Park—both teeming with vibrant corals, a myriad of fish species, gentle whale sharks, and the elusive dugong.

The post-refit Coral Ocean amplifies the Seychelles’ allure. Every inch, from the expansive owner’s stateroom with 180° ocean views and the pool’s skylight above to the structurally enhanced hull, whispers luxury. With accommodation for 13 guests across seven opulent cabins and a crew of 28, Coral Ocean is equipped to host events ranging from intimate gatherings to grand celebrations.

One can’t help but marvel at the thoughtfulness embedded in her redesign. The owner’s deck, for instance, now houses the dining area, enhancing the views. Service areas on each deck ensure impeccable hospitality. The bridge deck, formerly the dining deck, is now reimagined with multiple living spaces, allowing guests to lounge in unparalleled comfort.

Powering this magnificent vessel are twin caterpillar engines, enabling Coral Ocean to cruise at 14 knots and achieve a top speed of 17 knots. With a range of over 4,500 nautical miles, she’s ready to explore even the most secluded corners of the Seychelles.

In the realm of superyachts, opulence is often mistaken for ostentation. With Coral Ocean, her reimagining is a refreshing blend of understated elegance and boundless luxury.

Indeed, from the moment one steps aboard the reimagined Coral Ocean, it is easy to be enveloped in a world where every detail is a masterpiece of design and engineering, from the upgraded decking crafted from long teak (finger joints only, no cross joints), reinforcing her clean new look, to structural changes such as hull reinforcement to permit towing of the Pardo chase boats, enhancement of the already- incredible views, and glass balustrades to block the wind so lounging and dining can continue uninterrupted.

Whether it’s the sight of dolphins dancing in her wake, the ethereal hues of a sunset reflecting on her polished hull or enjoying her sleek lines along the horizon from a deserted beach while picnicking amid the lumbering giant turtles, every moment enjoying Coral Ocean in the Seychelles is an ode to extraordinary experiences. This is an immersion into a world where the epitome of yachting brilliance meets nature’s untouched splendor. It’s the ultimate manifestation of an unparalleled yachting experience in an unparalleled setting. So, when the siren call of the Seychelles beckons, it is guaranteed to answer it aboard Lürssen’s Coral Ocean.