On 12 June 2026, representatives of Lloyd Werft Bremerhaven signed the agreement for the construction of the Megayacht ‘Beyond Horizons’ signed. The 155-metre-long vessel is being built for the Maybach Ocean Club, a project by Splendid Sea AG in partnership with Mercedes-Maybach. The signing secures the construction slot in Bremerhaven; the final construction contract is due to follow at the end of 2026, with the vessel scheduled to enter service in the 2029/2030 winter season.
“Today marks a pivotal moment for the Maybach Ocean Club, as we move from a mere vision towards its realisation,” explains Captain Matthias Bosse, co-founder and managing director of the Maybach Ocean Club. Founded in 1857, Lloyd Werft has established its position in mega-yacht construction with projects such as the “Luna” and “Solaris”.
Fractional ownership rather than sole ownership
The Maybach Ocean Club breaks with the traditional model of sole ownership and introduces a fractional ownership concept. A maximum of 300 selected individuals will gain access to this maritime lifestyle. Each membership includes around four weeks on board the ‘Beyond Horizons’ each year. All administrative, technical and operational aspects are organised centrally.
The venture is based on an analysis of the luxury market: worldwide, more than 90 per cent of yachts are used by their owners for no more than four to six weeks a year. The rest of the time, they lie unused in harbour. “At the heart of the Maybach Ocean Club is a community of 300 exceptional individuals from all over the world, brought together by shared experiences at sea,” says co-founder Michael Hehn.
German engineering excellence
“With this community concept, our client is pursuing a forward-looking approach to the yachting of tomorrow. We see great potential in this for new market segments and user groups,” says Thorsten Rönner, shareholder and managing director of Lloyd Werft. He adds that Lloyd Werft is well positioned thanks to its shareholder structure and has strong partners in Lürssen and ZECH.
In particular, Lürssen’s experience and international reputation provide the foundation for successfully delivering a project of this scale. The shipyard will fit the megayacht with a hybrid propulsion system that is technically designed ex-works for subsequent operation on methanol. Until methanol becomes more widely available, biodiesel will be used on an interim basis.
Maybach design across 4,600 square metres of deck space
The exterior and the deck areas, which cover more than 4,600 square metres, are being developed in close collaboration between the Mercedes-Benz design team and the specialists at Dölker + Voges Design. The design features elongated proportions, sculptural surfaces and Maybach details characteristic of the brand.
The “Beyond Horizons” offers a retreat for up to 72 members and guests. The ship has 30 identical, residence-style suites, each measuring 74 square metres and featuring private balconies. Six additional cabins in the bow are reserved for guests staying for short periods.
Equipment and route planning
Its features include spacious panoramic lounges, haute cuisine concepts, an infinity pool, wellness and sports facilities, as well as a dedicated support vessel for helicopters, tenders and water toys. The “Beyond Horizons” itinerary takes in popular destinations: in summer, the yacht cruises the Mediterranean; in the winter months, it sails the Caribbean.
Technical specifications for “Beyond Horizons”:
- Length: 155 metres
- Deck area: over 4,600 square metres
- Type: Hybrid drive
- Alternative fuels: methanol
- Transitional operation: biodiesel
- Cabins: 30 suites, each measuring 74 square metres
- Guest cabins: 6 cabins in the bow
- Maximum number of guests per trip: 72 people
- Club members: maximum 300
- Support vessel for helicopters, tenders and water sports equipment
- Shipyard: Lloyd Werft Bremerhaven
- Entry into service: 2029/2030 winter season
Uske Berndt
Editor News & Panorama
