It is no secret that Russian tycoon Roman Abramovich’s superyacht Eclipse ranks among the largest luxury vessels in the world. She is grand and imposing, but what’s even more wondrous is what lies beneath. A detailed sneak peek into a private motor yacht is a rare treat, making this glimpse all the more special. Boat International shared a series of images showcasing the breathtaking Eclipse, a yacht whose grandeur could never be eclipsed.
This 533-foot masterpiece, crafted by Blohm + Voss, took four and a half years to bring to life under the vision of designer Terry Disdale. Her owner, Abramovich, wanted a yacht of colossal proportions, not to set records, but to host helicopters (with more than one helipad) and pools aplenty. Yet Eclipse is far more than just a luxury playground. The intricate detailing woven into every corner of this superyacht makes it a floating work of art.
The amenities are as lavish as they are abundant, including cinema rooms, conference facilities, a children’s playroom, a beauty salon, and a beach club. The main saloon stands out with limestone window sills and plush seating that creates a warm, ochre-toned elegance. This understated opulence extends to the guest cabins, where the attention to detail could easily rival the owner’s quarters. Inside Eclipse, there are 18 guest cabins, each attended to by a crew of 100. These rooms exude extravagance, featuring black wood with silver rubbed into the open grain, limed wenge, and buffalo hide.
Disdale’s thoughtful approach goes beyond the interiors of the rooms. He ensured that the lobbies connecting the nine decks were far from uniform. Each lobby reflects the unique touch of different artists, making every space distinct and full of character. Without these artistic flourishes, guests could easily lose their way several times a day. A standout example is a wooden sculpture designed by Disdale, made up of seven intricate pieces, expertly crafted in Japan. Such attention to detail extends to even the smallest elements, like sideboards, which were designed in Europe and handcrafted in Chile.
The yacht’s beauty isn’t confined to its interiors. The main swimming pool is a marvel of functionality and design, with a blue granite bottom that rises to sit flush with the deck, converting into a paddling pool or even a dancefloor.
The floating palace also features a full-sized pantry serving the beach club, complete with a pullout barbecue and pizza oven. The lower deck houses a cozy lounge that blends seamlessly with the rest of the yacht’s design, accompanied by a second plunge pool, a sprawling 830-square-foot gym, and a spa area.
While some areas, such as the master suite, remain off-limits, the glimpses we get are enough to imagine the sheer flamboyance of a man who owns a $610 million yacht. Abramovich’s master suite is well known for its armor-plated walls, retractable roof, and bulletproof windows, just one of many features that underscore Eclipse’s stature.
The yacht, which briefly held the title of the largest superyacht in the world, also boasts a disco hall, a mini-submarine, and even a missile defense system. It’s equipped with a laser system designed to dazzle long-lens photographers, ensuring privacy at every turn.
Yet beyond all the cutting-edge features and technical marvels, it’s the timeless elegance of Eclipse that leaves the deepest impression. This floating palace is not just a yacht, it’s an enduring testament to the art of luxury.