While her journey was carefully orchestrated, her stay in the UK was not about luxury or leisure but rather a calculated stop for tax purposes.
Dragonfly docked in the UK under the utmost discretion, avoiding public attention by arriving and leaving under the cover of darkness. The vessel was berthed in a private, restricted-access area in Portsmouth, ensuring her presence remained low-key. Observers reported minimal activity around the yacht during her stay, underscoring the deliberate efforts to maintain privacy.
Despite her size and grandeur, the yacht’s visit to the UK was notably subdued. This was a transit stop with a purpose: Dragonfly needed to clear EU customs and reset her VAT status before continuing her journey.
Interestingly, Dragonfly’s arrival adds to her growing reputation in the yachting world. She is positioned 17th on the YachtBuyer YB100, a prestigious list ranking the world's biggest yachts by gross tonnage rather than length. In doing so, she displaced the Oceanco superyacht DreAMboat.
The UK’s Role in Superyacht Logistics
The UK has become an increasingly popular destination for superyachts leaving Northern Europe. Historically, superyachts built in German, Dutch, or other EU shipyards would head to Norway, a non-EU country, for similar VAT-related reasons. However, Brexit has reshaped the landscape, turning the UK into a prime alternative for this process. Its proximity to major shipyards, combined with its non-EU status, offers significant logistical and financial benefits for yacht owners and builders.
Dragonfly’s visit underscores this growing trend, with the UK emerging as a key waypoint for superyachts on the cusp of delivery.
A Stop in Barcelona Before the Owner Joins for an Expeditionary Adventure
The owner of Dragonfly was notably absent during this initial leg of her journey. Before fully taking on her role as an ultimate go-anywhere expedition yacht, Dragonfly is scheduled to stop at the prestigious MB92 shipyard in Barcelona. Known for its expertise in superyacht outfitting and refits, MB92 will oversee the final stages of her preparation, including the installation of advanced systems, bespoke interior details, and the loading of the owner’s personal belongings.
This critical phase will transform Dragonfly from a technical marvel into a fully operational expedition yacht, ready to support her owner’s ambitions of exploring the farthest corners of the globe. From remote islands in the South Pacific to the icy waters of Antarctica, Dragonfly is designed to deliver both luxury and reliability in even the most challenging environments.
Adding intrigue to her story, Dragonfly’s name links to Sergey Brin’s former yacht, the 73m CAPRICORN, previously named Dragonfly, which he sold in October 2024 for €27 million. This connection has sparked speculation about Brin’s ownership of the new vessel.
The Ultimate Expedition Yacht
Built to traverse the world’s oceans in comfort and style, Dragonfly is more than a superyacht; she’s an expedition vessel equipped for adventure. Her cutting-edge diesel-electric propulsion system ensures efficiency and sustainability, enabling her to cover long distances with minimal environmental impact. Her robust hull and advanced navigation systems provide the capability to explore challenging regions, from tropical paradises to rugged polar landscapes.
Expansive deck spaces allow guests to immerse themselves in the surrounding vistas, while her interior offers the finest in modern luxury, blending comfort with functionality. Helicopter capability and onboard tenders ensure seamless access to remote locations, making Dragonfly a true gateway to adventure.
Preparing for a Global Odyssey
As Dragonfly continues her journey, the global yachting community watches with keen interest. Her transition through the UK highlights the evolving logistical strategies of the industry, while her upcoming worldwide tour promises to cement her status as one of the most exciting superyachts of her generation.
For now, she glides silently toward Barcelona, preparing for the next chapter in what is poised to be a storied career on the seas. Whether cruising exotic locales or gracing the world’s most prestigious harbors, Dragonfly is destined to leave a lasting impression wherever she ventures.
Lürssen's other 2024 deliveries highlight the shipyard's dominance in the world of large superyachts, with standout launches such as the 139-meter Luminance, the 122-meter Kismet, and the 82-meter Haven. These remarkable custom build superyachts blend cutting-edge technology with bespoke luxury, meeting the growing demand for versatile designs suited to both private ownership and the high-end charter market.
Fascinated by this superyacht? See all Lürssen yachts for sale, monitored through YachtBuyer MarketWatch, with our guarantee of no fake listings to waste your time. Or explore other similar yachts currently for sale.
