Google Founder Sergey Brin Snaps Up ‘Dragonfly,’ America’s Largest Superyacht, for $682 Million

Big yacht meets big tech.

A superyacht floats near forested shore, mountains.
  • Google co-founder Sergey Brin’s new superyacht, Dragonfly, is America’s largest at 466 feet.
  • Dragonfly features four decks, dual helipads, and accommodation for 24 guests.
  • Dragonfly was Originally commissioned by Russian billionaire Leonid Mikhelson.

The world’s wealthiest people have long harboured a voracious appetite for the ultimate status symbol — the luxurious superyacht. As leading businessmen vie to acquire these floating palaces, a new player has now entered the game — tech titan Sergey Brin has acquired the new crown jewel of America’s superyacht fleet, purchasing the colossal 466-foot vessel known as Dragonfly, surpassing Jeff Bezos’ 417-foot yacht, Koru.

From Project Ali Baba to Dragonfly

The $450 million USD (c. $682 million AUD), 466-foot luxury yacht was meticulously built by the shipyard Lürssen and originally commissioned by Russian billionaire Leonid Mikhelson under the name Project Ali Baba. However, he could not acquire the vessel due to sanctions resulting from Russia’s war in Ukraine. The ownership of the yacht changed hands while it was still being built.

After the sale, the new buyer remained a mystery until now, with Brin emerging as the proud owner of this state-of-the-art masterpiece. With sea trials completed and final touches underway, Dragonfly is set for delivery by the end of 2024.

Dragonfly superyacht in harbour
Dragonfly has successfully completed its sea trials and is now prepared for delivery. Image: Superyacht Times

Who designed the Dragonfly superyacht?

The exterior of Dragonfly was designed by the world-renowned Germán Frers, who aims for a perfect blend of timeless elegance and a commanding modern look. Sleek and handsome, this silhouette is sure to turn heads, delivering exceptionally good hydrodynamic performance, translating into smooth, efficient travel across the open seas.

The interior was crafted by Nauta Design, replete with an impressive array of facilities. Dragonfly is designed to cater to the most discerning tastes, meeting the highest standards for its high-profile guests on board, including luxurious guest accommodations that offer maximum comfort and privacy.

Lürssen Dragonfly superyacht rumored owned by Sergey Brin.
The superyacht was initially commissioned by Russian oligarch Leonid Mikhelson. Image: Superyacht Fan

What amenities does the Dragonfly superyacht have?

Dragonfly’s enviable features include:

  • Four Vast Decks: These will provide enough space for dining, lounging, or just being sociable, with both indoor and outdoor areas tailored for every occasion.
  • Dual Helipads: The Dragonfly sports one helipad both fore and aft for ultimate flexibility in VIP arrival and departure, come what may.
  • Luxury Entertainment and Pools: Equipped with advanced entertainment systems and multiple pools, offering ample recreation for guests.
  • Sumptuous Guest Accommodations: Designed for ultimate comfort, Dragonfly’s guest suites offer privacy and top-tier amenities, promising every stay aboard unforgettable.

It offers accommodation for up to 24 guests across 12 lavish staterooms, attended by a crew of 45, who cater to every need, providing solitude, comfort, and grandeur.

A large superyacht cruises near marina under dusk.
Image: Superyacht Fan

Dragonfly’s Size and Speed

The displacement is an incredible 9,400 gross tons, and Dragonfly will enter the select company of only 70 motor yachts in the world that are over 100 meters in length. Powered by MTU engines, this marvel of engineering has a top speed of 20 knots, a cruising speed of 12 knots, but with a very impressive range of 3,000 nautical miles.

Aerial view of Dragonfly yacht cruising smoothly.
Sergey Brin’s former 241-foot yacht is currently up for sale at $27 million USD. Image: Y.co

For Sergey Brin, the new Dragonfly marks a dramatic upgrade from his previous vessel — a 241-foot yacht also named Dragonfly, currently listed for sale at $27 million USD. This nearly two-fold increase in size reflects the tech giant’s growing ambitions in luxury yachting, establishing him among the world’s most elite maritime collectors.

As Dragonfly prepares to hit the high seas, the world’s yacht enthusiasts will keep a close eye on this remarkable vessel that not only pushes the boundaries of maritime engineering but also sets new standards in luxury yachting. Unmatched in size, luxury, and pedigree, the superyacht is poised to make waves in the exclusive world of luxury yachting.

loader