Superyachts are synonymous with wealth, success, and grandeur, but rarely with failure. Yet, even winners can falter. The 305-foot Feadship Lady S, winner of the 2020 World Superyacht Award in the Displacement Motor Yacht 2,000 GT to 4,999 GT category, recently proved that even the most exquisite vessels are not immune to setbacks.
Lady S arrived off Falmouth and anchored in Carrick Roads after experiencing an issue at sea. According to reports, the yacht “lost power” in the Bay of Biscay due to a mechanical engine failure, an unusual hiccup for a 3,000 GT luxury vessel packed with every conceivable amenity. Instead of sailing in her usual stately grace, Lady S looked more “limping lady” as she crawled past Nare Point into Carrick Roads at just 1.5 knots.
The crew quickly mobilized, keeping the yacht’s fully certified EC155-rated helipad busy all day, this time likely for engineers and mechanics rather than guests. It remains unclear whether billionaire owner Dan Snyder, worth $4.7 billion, was aboard, but the yacht’s Airbus H145 helicopter reportedly made more trips than usual, drawing the attention of onlookers as it repeatedly landed on deck. According to The Falmouth Packet, an engineer was flown in from the Netherlands to inspect the engines before Lady S continued toward Truro for a brief stopover.
At least those onboard had options for distraction. The $193 million motoryacht houses a $3 million two-level IMAX Dolby cinema, the first of its kind on a yacht, ensuring boredom never stands a chance. Other highlights include a convertible sports court for basketball, volleyball, football, badminton, and golf, complete with a simulator and tee, as well as a lavish beach club with a hammam, ice plunge pool, gym, massage suite, and spa.
Losing power at sea can mean a total electrical “blackout” or simply the loss of propulsion. If it were the latter, guests and crew likely remained comfortable aboard the floating mansion even as it drifted to safety.
What does losing power in a superyacht mean?
Losing power on a superyacht can mean one of two things: a total electrical “blackout” or a loss of propulsion. A blackout is a sudden failure of electrical power from the main switchboard, temporarily disabling propulsion and steering until backup systems restart. Sometimes, a yacht may lose propulsion without a complete blackout, which is still considered serious since maneuverability is reduced. In such cases, vessels seek a safe refuge, like Falmouth, which offers deep, sheltered waters, superyacht facilities, pilots, tugs, and lay-by berths. For Lady S, this proved to be the ideal sanctuary until her engines were checked and cleared.
Lady S is currently moored at Falmouth Harbor and can be chartered for a weekly rate of approximately $1.8 million once she is in ship-shape!
