Enigma Yacht

Enigma Yacht

The motoryacht Enigma is Larry Ellison's former Katana yacht renamed by Aidan Barclay, its new owner. Why did Aidan Barclay rename his newly-acquired yacht, "Enigma"?

The answer remains an enigma, but what is well known about Enigma is that it is a very fast yacht. In fact, Enigma is the fastest yacht of its size, with a top speed of 34 knots, which is equal to about 39 miles per hour.

The boat's speed is by design. Every detail of Enigma (right) was intended to make the yacht fast, right down to her aerodynamic convex windows that minimize wind resistance.

Designed by Francis Design and built in northern Germany by Blohm & Voss Shipyards of Hamburg, this motoryacht is powered by a 19,000 horse power General Electric LM1600 gas turbine engine, as well as two smaller Deutz BV16M68 diesel engines. The combined propulsion exceeds 28,000 horse power.

To handle this extra power and speed, Enigma is equipped with a state-of-the-art stabilization system that minimizes side-to-side roll motion, as well as bow thrusters.

This does not mean that this motoryacht is only power and speed. To the contrary, it has a full range of creature comforts to match its raw power. It has even gone through a number of retrofits to enhance those creature comforts for its current owner and those whom he invites to enjoy its six luxury suites.

Aidan Barclay, by the way, is the son of David Rowat Barclay, one of the infamous twin brothers who control a publishing empire in the United Kingdom that includes The Telegraph and The Business, as well as The Spectator.

So back to our question: how much do yachts like the Enigma cost and how much should you spend on a yacht?

The answer depends on your perspectives. Please click here if you believe that your wealth is attributable only to your intelligence and endeavor, and click on million dollar yachts if you believe that it's a blessing from God.