Originally delivered in 2007 at 70.2 meters, the vessel has undergone transformative upgrades, including a significant swim platform extension that brings her estimated length to 72.5 meters.
A spy shot capturing her just outside the shed was taken by DrDuu, a well-known yacht spotter, offering enthusiasts a first glimpse of her refreshed exterior.
A Comprehensive Transformation
The refit, which began in February 2024, introduced a number of significant enhancements, most notably a swim platform extension designed by American naval architecture firm Murray & Associates . The enlarged swim platform offers improved water access, reinforcing Starfire’s appeal as a high-end leisure yacht.
The sundeck now features a brand-new gym and spa , adding to the onboard wellness amenities and ensuring guests can enjoy the ultimate luxury experience. These enhancements were managed by Arrow Yachts , with Pascoli International responsible for the yacht’s updated exterior design.
A major highlight of the exterior redesign includes clever painting techniques that dramatically alter Starfire’s appearance. The radar mast has been painted black , and the windows have been tinted . Additionally, the superstructure around the windows has been painted black , creating the illusion of long, continuous windows with sharp angles that make the yacht appear sleeker and faster. Further black-painted areas on the superstructure help redefine her lines, giving her a more modern, streamlined aesthetic.
Patrick Knowles Design , known for its sophisticated aesthetic approach, was entrusted with refurbishing the yacht’s interior. Starfire’s interior, originally crafted by François Zuretti , is famed for its use of rare materials such as parchment, palm, mother-of-pearl, shagreen, bamboo, and buffalo hide . The latest interior updates ensure the yacht remains elegant and modern while preserving its opulent charm.
We are honoured to have been chosen as the preferred partner for revitalising this iconic motor yacht.
MD
A&R Services
Starfire’s Heritage and Sisterships
Starfire is part of a distinguished line of Lürssen yachts, sharing its engineering platform with Titania (ex-Apoise, delivered 2006) and Horizons III (ex-Martha Ann, delivered 2008) . All three were designed by renowned naval architect Espen Øino and are recognized for their grand spaces, luxurious features, and impeccable craftsmanship.
Upon her original delivery in 2007, Saint Nicolas ranked among the Top 100 largest yachts in the world . Although the expansion of the superyacht market has since pushed her out of that exclusive list, the latest upgrades ensure she remains one of the most sought-after vessels in her class.
A&R Services’ Role in the Project
The refit was a major milestone for A&R Services , the refit division of Abeking & Rasmussen. Daniel Reichwald, Managing Director of A&R Services , commented: “This refit project represents a significant milestone for A&R Services. We are honored to have been chosen as the preferred partner for revitalizing this iconic motor yacht.”
With her extensive upgrades and renewed elegance, Starfire is once again poised to offer an unparalleled yachting experience, blending timeless luxury with state-of-the-art modern features.
The Growing Appeal of Refitting Superyachts
This project serves as an excellent example of how modern refitting can dramatically enhance the appearance of older superyachts , much like remodeling property. It presents an attractive alternative for buyers seeking a modern-looking yacht at a fraction of the cost of a new build. As the global fleet ages and new-build costs continue to soar, this trend is expected to gain momentum, with refits becoming an increasingly significant part of the yacht industry.
Interested in a new or used superyacht? See all Lurssen yachts for sale, monitored through YachtBuyer MarketWatch, with our guarantee of no fake listings to waste your time. Or find more inspiration by viewing all superyachts for sale.
Refit photo by: DrDuu
