"nausicaä"The name of the 114-metre Lürssen and its meaning

Martin Hager

 · 01.12.2025

Two possible meanings stand out in the "nausicaä" research.
Photo: Instagram.com/frank_behling
The name of the futuristic-looking 114-metre Lürssen was spotted during the current sea trials. The exceptional explorer, designed by Marc Newson for Japanese entrepreneur Yusaku Maezawa, not only stores diesel but also methanol for fuel cells. We try to decipher why the adventurous Zozotown founder decided on the name "nausicaä".

The yacht name has a special function: it makes a ship unique and establishes a direct link to the owner. Thus Studies by linguists from the University of Augsburg revealed that the choice of name often reflects the personal stories of the owners.

Boat names between tradition and creativity

Two possible meanings stand out when researching the possible meaning of "nausicaä". Firstly, there is the reference to ancient Greek mythology often chosen by owners. Here, the name is associated in particular with the figure of Nausicaa from Homer's "Odyssey". Nausikaa is the daughter of King Alkinoos and Queen Arete on the mythical island of the Phaeacians. The figure symbolises hospitality, courage, grace and helpfulness, as she rescues the shipwrecked Odysseus and shows him the way to her father. The name is derived from the Greek words "naus" (ship) and "kaio" (to burn) and can literally be translated as "shipwrecker" or "one who influences navigation". In another interpretation, it means "the saviour". This mythological meaning makes the name Nausicaä particularly appropriate for a superyacht.

Manga comic as inspiration

Far more fitting for an owner with Japanese roots is the link to the famous manga and anime "Nausicaä from the Valley of the Winds" by Hayao Miyazaki. Thanks to these comics, the name is very well known in Japan and stands for a charismatic and nature-loving heroine who embodies leadership, wisdom, empathy and love of peace.

Perfect blend of Western antiquity and Asian pop culture

The association with Greek mythology lends the ship a touch of classical elegance and profundity, while the reference to Japanese pop culture and Miyazaki builds a bridge between Western antiquity and modern Asian creativity. For a superyacht owned by a Japanese owner, the name Nausicaä thus unites several levels: It expresses seafaring, protection, a spirit of discovery and hospitality, connects two cultures and stands for beauty as well as the ability to provide orientation - as Nausicaä does both in Homer and in the manga comic. This makes the name timeless and particularly effective internationally.

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A proud owner who is active on social media

Japanese billionaire Yusaku Maezawa has revealed himself as the client of "nausicaä" via videos on his Instagram page. The 47-year-old founder of Zozotown, the Japanese Zalando, also reported on the launch spectacle with long edits of the journey by private jet and helicopter as well as the boarding of the yacht via a side hull opening.

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Technical data "Cosmos"

  • Overall length: 114.2 m
  • Shipyard: Lürssen
  • Exterior designer: Marc Newson
  • Interior designer: Marc Newson
  • Construction: Lürssen

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