While sun, sea spray, and salty air may be a paradise for sailing enthusiasts, it’s not necessarily an ideal environment for priceless works of art. Nevertheless, serious art collectors are defying this challenge by bringing esteemed pieces by artists like Banksy and Basquiat onto their yachts.
Art adviser Pandora Mather-Lees, who specializes in protecting art at sea, even suggests that certain artworks might fare better on the water than on land. She points out that superyachts can offer optimal climatic conditions for art preservation, with advanced air conditioning systems capable of maintaining the recommended 50 percent humidity and a temperature range of 64 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit—ideal for fine art. Additionally, many superyachts are equipped with state-of-the-art security systems designed not only to protect passengers but also their valuable art collections.
However, maintaining these conditions on a yacht takes careful planning. Art should be positioned away from open doors or areas close to the water, sometimes requiring yacht interiors to be designed around the art collections. To protect against light damage, a conservator should conduct a lux-hour survey, which measures a room’s light exposure, before installing any artworks, even in rooms shielded by UV-protected glass. Having a fine art insurance policy that covers art displayed on a yacht is crucial, as is ensuring that all necessary paperwork (or certified copies) is kept onboard to avoid customs complications.
Art adviser Megan Fox Kelly recommends installing art to minimize movement during rough waters, using fixtures that allow for quick removal in case of flooding or fire. Some collectors opt to own the original artwork while having a copy created for display on their yacht.
Nonetheless, some owners are unwilling to part with their original pieces. Notably, the 483-foot A+ superyacht is rumored to carry an art collection valued at over double the yacht’s worth. Another example is the superyacht Guilty, owned by Greek Cypriot construction magnate and prominent contemporary art collector Dakis Joannou, featuring an exterior and interior designed by Jeff Koons.
As art collections find their way onto yachts, experts are rushing to educate captains and crews on proper art care. Mather-Lees emphasizes that a lack of knowledge among staff can pose risks to valuable artworks. For instance, artworks like Lucio Fontana’s minimalist slashed paintings, each worth seven or eight figures, require professional treatment due to the crevices created by the cuts. Without proper guidance, damage might be exacerbated if mishaps occur.
Collectors are advised that it’s essential to ensure that their crew is well-versed in art maintenance, not just engine upkeep and cocktail mixing. Mather-Lees suggests the importance of having a direct line to an art conservator who can promptly address damage to delicate pieces like Fontana’s. Ultimately, collectors must include a care manual for all their art objects as part of the standard operating procedures, recognizing that art is often the only appreciating asset onboard their yachts.
