The refined tastes of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud of Saudi Arabia are widely recognized. His ownership of the magnificent $400 million Serene yacht, boasting an impressive length of 439 feet, is a testament to his stature. Beyond its robust exterior, substantial price tag, and imposing dimensions, the Serene superyacht is distinguished by its interior elements, including a remarkable snow room. This specially designed chamber is chilled to 12 degrees Fahrenheit, with genuine snow falling from the ceiling, offering a refreshing escape from the scorching 110-degree Saudi summers and a perfect prelude to the onboard sauna. Notably, Fincantieri shipyard’s 439-foot yacht, delivered in 2011, was the pioneering vessel to incorporate a snow room, subsequently inspiring a few other motor yachts like Faith and Ragnar. However, none can rival the exquisite execution found aboard Serene.
Among the myriad striking features and extensive amenities, the work of Pascale Reymond of Reymond Langton Design stands out. The inclusion of the snow room, attributed to Serene’s original owner, Russian oligarch Yuri Shefler, is particularly intriguing. It was Shefler’s vision to have a room on his ship where genuine snowfall would occur.
So captivating is this Italian-built yacht that even centibillionaire Bill Gates succumbed to its allure, chartering Serene (at $5 million per week in 2014) for a brief family vacation. Below, we delve into the remarkable features of Serene that would have made the Gates family’s holiday truly memorable.
The yacht seamlessly transports its occupants from a chilly mountainous ambiance to a giant internal seawater pool, accommodating the diverse needs of large families residing aboard. Reflecting the foresight of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, a children’s playroom with a climbing wall is also thoughtfully included.
Depending on the preferences of the party, one of the two helipads can transform into an additional pool or dance floor, ensuring an array of entertainment options. Serene is available for charter, offering a plethora of engaging activities on board.
An exhilarating “between the decks” slide, a captivating underwater viewing room, and an array of toys and tenders cater to adventure seekers. Following an action-packed day, guests can find relaxation and rejuvenation at the wellness and beauty center, complete with spas and a soothing hammam.
Before retiring for the night, guests have the opportunity to enjoy a movie in the outdoor cinema or indulge in music and conversations in the piano room and bar, ensuring a perfect end to their day of opulence and leisure.
How Serene Yacht Landed in the Lap of Middle-Eastern Royalty:
The acquisition of the Serene megayacht by the then Deputy Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia exemplifies the adage that only a jeweler truly comprehends the value of a diamond. In early 2016, Prince Salman was vacationing in southern France when his attention was captivated by the majestic luxury yacht cruising off the coast. Not only did the magnificent vessel catch his eye, but Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud promptly dispatched an aide to negotiate its purchase from Russian tycoon Yuri Shefler.
In a matter of hours, the yacht, boasting two helipads, a submarine, and a nightclub, came under the ownership of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud, with the Russian businessman promptly dispossessed. The prince’s fondness for his prized possession is evident in the yacht’s interior, adorned with one of the world’s most expensive hotel suite paintings, Leonardo da Vinci’s Salvator Mundi, acquired for a staggering $450 million in 2017—an investment surpassing the value of the yacht itself.
