Less than a year after a devastating fire severely damaged the historic motor yacht M/S "Loris", she has returned to her berth in Stockholm's Pålsundet. Built in 1913 for the Swedish industrial magnate Ivar Kreuger, the ship is considered one of Sweden's most important floating cultural monuments. On 9 June 2024, a fire broke out on board the "Loris", which almost led to the total loss of the historic vessel.
Rapid rescue and extensive restoration of the "Loris"
Thanks to the rapid intervention of the fire brigade and dedicated club members, the "Loris" was saved despite considerable damage. Last winter, the ship underwent extensive restoration work.
The 'Loris' is a cultural heritage, a living reminder of our maritime history"
Angelica Skifferberg, Chairwoman of Heleneborgs Båtklubb, says about the significance of the classic: "The 'Loris' is not just a yacht - it is a cultural heritage, a symbol of Stockholm and a living reminder of our maritime history." The return of the ship is "almost a miracle" in view of the severe fire damage.
Saloon yacht in Art Nouveau style
"Loris" is a 15 metre long saloon yacht from before the First World War. Behind her natural varnished mahogany exterior is an exclusive Art Nouveau interior with real carpets, period furniture and leather upholstery. She is one of the most prominent and best-restored classic yachts in Sweden.
Illustrious history of the "Loris"
"Loris" was designed in February 1913 by the famous designer Knut Ljungberg and built at Hästholmsvarvet in Nacka as a fast saloon yacht. She managed 27 knots after a few engine changes.
The client and first owner was the industrialist Ivar Kreuger, who from then on embarked on champagne cruises in the archipelago with Hollywood stars, moneyed aristocrats and even kings on board.
Richest man in the world
Kreuger earned his money with the international matchstick empire he built up, Förenade Svenska Tändsticksfabrikerna AB. In 1929, the Kreuger Group was at its peak and Ivar was considered the richest man in the world, with a fortune more than twice that of Bill Gates today. His company controlled more than 80 per cent of the global match market and brokered government loans to around 50 countries, including Germany and France.
After Kreuger's death in 1932, the "Loris" passed through many hands until it was found as a wreck in 1992. The restoration took 5 years and today the "Loris" is one of Sweden's best-known boats.
Threat to the historic site
While the survival of the "Loris" is now assured, its home harbour is facing real problems. The city of Stockholm is planning to build a technical building in the centre of the island of Långholmen. According to critics, this project not only threatens the historic surroundings, but also the operation of the Heleneborgs Båtklubb, the home of the "Loris".
Boat club for classics
Heleneborgs Båtklubb (HBK) was founded in 1919 and is based in Pålsundet on the island of Långholmen in Stockholm. As a non-profit organisation, the club is committed to the preservation and promotion of classic boating. The HBK is home to one of the most unique collections of wooden boats in Sweden and plays an important role in preserving the city's maritime heritage.
Resistance is forming
"We call on everyone who cares about Pålsundet, Långholmen and our shared cultural heritage to sign the petition," says Per Erik Ennerling, harbour master at Heleneborgs Båtklubb. "It's not just about a club - it's about the future of a unique place in the heart of Stockholm."
The return of the Loris thus becomes a symbol of the fight to preserve maritime traditions and historical sites in the Swedish capital.
Future of "Loris" as charter yacht
Despite the challenges, the "Loris" looks forward to a promising future. Interested parties can book the historic ship for exclusive trips and experience a piece of maritime history for themselves.
The "Loris" is hired out for conferences, weddings, business meetings and pleasure cruises, for example, and with its relatively high speed (28 knots) has a large range in the Stockholm archipelago.
