Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg’s megayacht Launchpad recently dropped anchor near Elba, a Mediterranean island in Tuscany, Italy. Just like Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, it seems Zuckerberg is thoroughly enjoying his time on the newly acquired $300 million luxury vessel. Back in May, the billionaire celebrated his 40th birthday by flying to Panama on his private jet to board the Feadship-built megayacht. A month later, the Meta boss whisked his entire family away on Launchpad on a luxurious cruise to celebrate his father’s 70th birthday, which also coincided with Father’s Day. To make the most of the summer season, the 118-meter vessel along with its support vessel ‘Wingman’ has been cruising around the Mediterranean, making a short stop a Mallorca before finally mooring off the coast of Levanto Bay.
The island of Elba is famous primarily for its association with Napoleon Bonaparte. He was exiled to the tiny island in 1814, where he spent around ten months before escaping to France. In addition to its Napoleonic history, Elba is known for its beautiful landscapes and beaches and as part of the Tuscan Archipelago National Park, which attracts many tourists each year. Zuckerberg’s megayacht is so gigantic that it is impossible not to notice the vessel. The beachgoers at Elba were amazed by the sight of Launchpad, who beelined to catch a glimpse and click pictures of the floating palace. In fact, social media platforms have been flooded with pictures of the megayacht and its support vessel clicked by curious tourists visiting Elba.
There’s no word of whether Zuckerberg is onboard the vessel. However, a helicopter was photographed landing and taking off from Launchpad, suggesting the billionaire might have paid a visit. Initially commissioned by a Russian oligarch, Vladimir Potanin, the $300 million megayacht boasts an array of impressive features and specifications.
It was designed by Norwegian yacht designer Espen Øino, who has penned over 200 yachts, including many of the world’s largest and most technologically advanced yachts. Launchpad can accommodate up to 24 guests and requires a crew of 48 to operate. It is powered by advanced MTU engines, giving the vessel a top speed of 20 knots (~23mph) and a cruising speed of 12 knots (about 14mph).
