New construction partner in the Far East
The original plan was for the world's largest residential yacht to set sail in March 2029. However, large-scale projects of this dimension obey their own laws. While it was announced last year that Swiss entrepreneur Frank Binder's monumental yacht liner would be built at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Lower Saxony, things have now changed. How Boat International the construction contract was signed with China Merchants Cruise Shipbuilding, or CMCS for short - a change of partner that is far more than just a geographical shift.
But first to the project itself, which has kept the yachting world on tenterhooks since its announcement.
An idea that thinks bigger
"We want to offer a unique lifestyle on a residential yacht travelling with a great community," explains Binderwho founded the company Ulyssia Residences AG for the realisation and gathered renowned industry experts around him. First and foremost CEO Alain Gruber, who honed his craft at luxury hotel chains such as The Ritz-Carlton. The concept goes far beyond the classic cruise experience: "Ulyssia" is intended to be a platform for engaging with foreign cultures, leaving a positive impact - and being able to quickly provide humanitarian aid in crisis situations thanks to extensive medical facilities on board. Active marine conservation projects are also planned in cooperation with NGOs. Luxury with attitude, you could say.
Over a length of 323 metres and 16 decks, a project is unfolding that is unparalleled in the history of private shipbuilding. There will be 122 private residences and 22 guest suites on board for a maximum of 250 residents and guests - a deliberately chosen density that is intended to preserve the character of an exclusive residential community at sea instead of creating the anonymous mass feeling of a conventional cruise ship.
When top designers dream together
For the design of "Ulyssia", Binder was able to engage some of the most illustrious names on the international yacht and design scene. The exterior was designed by Espen Øinowhose portfolio includes some of the most extraordinary superyachts in the world. Milan-based architect Francesca Muzio, whose studio FM Architettura can look back on over 150 projects in the yacht and luxury hotel sector, is responsible for the interior of the public areas and selected residences. "We wanted to bring authenticity on board," emphasises Muzio - and designed a gourmet market where residents can discover typical products from the places they visit, accompanied by local chefs who offer authentic gastronomic experiences.
Other designers were engaged to personalise the residences: Jean Michel Gathy, Sabrina Monte Carlo, Jenan Interiors - and, in an unusual line-up for the yachting world, music legend Lenny Kravitz. An atrium inspired by the Guggenheim Museum forms the architectural centrepiece of the public spaces.
Living on up to 982 square metres - at sea
The residences themselves are the centrepiece of the project. With living spaces of between 113 and 982 square metres, individual design according to the owner's wishes, a private lobby and an exclusive lift for each unit, the offer reaches a dimension that would also be impressive on land. The entry-level price is around 8.7 million euros for the smallest suites - an amount that naturally keeps the circle of potential buyers manageable, but is fully in line with the project's claim to exclusivity.
What else "Ulyssia" will offer its residents reads like a catalogue of the most exclusive facilities imaginable in a limited space - although the 323-metre length does allow for considerable freedom. Yacht club with integrated marina, diving centre with Triton diving boats, spa with medical department, Michelin-starred restaurants, theatre, library, art studio, sports fields, simulators and garages for residents' vehicles are just as much a part of it as two helicopters and a fleet of luxury tenders. Chenot has been secured as a wellness partner, EYOS Expeditions as an expedition specialist, and VistaJet takes care of all private aviation enquiries.
The drive is designed as an ambitious hybrid system that combines methanol, biofuels, diesel, batteries and solar technology - a commitment to sustainability that is in line with the overall aspirations of the project.
China instead of Papenburg: The new construction partner
And now for the decisive change of course: "Ulyssia" will no longer be built at Meyer Werft in Papenburg - as announced in 2025 - but at China Merchants Cruise Shipbuilding. According to Boat International, the choice of CMCS is anything but a solution of convenience. The Chinese shipyard has proven expertise in expedition cruise shipbuilding and delivered the first polar-capable expedition ship in Chinese production. It works closely with its subsidiary Deltamarin - a Finnish engineering company with a deep understanding of complex on-board systems and high-quality equipment integration.
The project team remains the same. The change to CMCS only affects the shipbuilding - the overall concept, the designers, partners, the claim: everything remains unchanged. The maiden voyage from Monaco is now planned for 2031.
Technical specifications:
- Length: 323 metres
- Decks: 16
- Residences: 132
- Suites: 22
- Drive: Hybrid (methanol, biofuels, diesel, batteries, solar)
Residences:
- Sizes: 113 to 982 square metres (8.7 to 90 million euros)
- Facilities: Private lobby and lift
Equipment:
- Spa area
- Starred restaurants
- Theatre
- Education centre
- Helicopter hangar
- Medical centre
- Car and motorbike garages
- Conference rooms
- Library
- Yacht club
- Diving centre
- Gourmet market
Schedule:
- Maiden voyage: March 2031
Yacht liners are booming as an alternative to cruises
Hotels and exclusive cruises go well together, which is why, in addition to the Four Seasons and Ritz Carlton hotel brand Aman has now also launched its first yacht liner "Amangati" which is due to set sail from 2027. With just 47 suites, a large spa area and fine dining, the yacht liner designed by Sinot Design promises a unique cruise experience.
Martin Hager
Editor in Chief YACHT
