Octogenarian or not, the heart wants what it wants. Billionaire Arthur Blank is no exception, as he sets his sights on a new superyacht, replacing his stellar superyacht, Dreamboat, with the dazzling new Oceanco Project Y726. At 364 feet, this megayacht will be bigger and better and is well on its way to completion. Project Y726 has arrived at Oceanco’s outfitting facilities in Alblasserdam, where it will undergo the final stages of construction. It will still take at least two years, which means the boat will be ready for an 83-year-old Blank in 2025. Images released by the shipyard reveal a panel of vibrant colors on the exterior. This is the work of Rotterdam-based graffiti artist I AM EELCO, who was invited to paint onboard to add a cheerful wink to the mammoth transportation.
The 4,550gt luxury vessel will be counted among the yards largest by volume. The spectacular exterior is designed by Espen Øino International, and the interiors are credited to Mark Berryman Design. Project Y726 will sleep 28 guests in 14 stately cabins and will be looked after by up to 34 crew. The large and lavish ship will feature several wonderful amenities like a winter garden, an indoor cocktail area, an outdoor cinema, entertainment areas, and more. The owner’s deck will include a Jacuzzi and a swimming pool. There is another cinema inside, along with a gym and a well-equipped spa complete with a sauna and steam room.
The well-designed beach club features a bar that opens directly onto the swimming platform. Y726 is a prime example of what can be achieved when all parties at the table work together in a positive and collaborative way. “We are very much looking forward to entering the next phase of this project and delivering the client a stunning yacht,” says Dan Jackson of Falcon Yacht Management.
“We are looking forward to getting started on the next phase of Y726’s construction in the New Year. There is a very collaborative spirit on the project, and she promises to be a spectacular addition to the Oceanco fleet once delivered. We are grateful for the positive partnership that has developed among everyone involved, including the co-makers and owner’s team,” added Oceanco’s Project Director, Edske Smit.
The American businessman also owns a 295-foot luxury vessel, Dreamboat by Oceanco, worth $180 million. Project Y726 is much bigger in comparison and will indeed cross the $200 million mark.
Who is Arthur Blank?
The Queens native, with a net worth of $8.1 billion, is the co-founder of The Home Depot, which is worth $347.01 billion. It was an enterprise he started with Bernie Marcus after being fired from their jobs at a regional hardware store. Today, the Blank Family of Businesses includes the National Football League’s Atlanta Falcons, stakes in the PGA’s network of retail stores, an MLS soccer team, and the Mercedes Benz Stadium in Atlanta.
The Babson College graduate signed the Giving Pledge and committed to giving away more than half of his wealth. The 81-year-old businessman owns three ranches in Montana: Mountain Sky Guest Ranch, West Creek Ranch, and Paradise Valley Ranch, as well as a $180 million superyacht, Dreamboat.
