For the First Time, the Iconic Classic Yacht “Christina O” is Offered for Sale

New superyacht launches typically garner the greatest attention in the hectic and dynamic yachting world of today since experienced sailors and would-be owners appear to be fixated on larger, faster, and newer vessels. But nothing is more valuable to certain ardent owners than the beautiful ships of the past.

Although they might not be as fast or as luxurious as their contemporary equivalents, classic yachts are nonetheless priceless assets to the yachting industry and living works of art. One such valuable artefact from the past that has withstood the test of time is the legendary superyacht Christina O, which was first introduced to the public market in 1943 and is now available for purchase through Morley Yachts.

 

This 99-meter (325-foot) motor yacht is a true veteran of the glitzy superyacht scene of the 20th century, with a colourful background and a certain star attraction among the yachting world. It was previously owned by Greek millionaire Aristotle Onassis and has likely housed more dignitaries, chiefs of state, and Hollywood celebrities than any other vessel.

 

Aristotle Onassis, a shipping tycoon, purchased Christina O for scrap value in 1954 after it had been originally constructed as an anti-submarine frigate for the Royal Canadian Navy. Then, at the HDW shipyard in Kiel, the Greek shipowner—Jackie Kennedy’s second husband—spent four million dollars renovating it into an opulent superyacht.

 

Christina O has had multiple refits over its career, with an interior created by Apostolos Molindris and a naval architecture originally conceived by Caesar Pinnau and Costas Carabelas. The last occurred in 2022 and was managed by an Irish corporate consortium that the late Ivor Fitzpatrick had established.

 

Pictured by Morley Yachts

 

The boat retains the distinct aesthetic of the time period in which it was first constructed while providing the same degree of comfort and luxury as a contemporary yacht.

 

Among its most remarkable features are the concert room, the Minotaur mosaic saltwater swimming pool that can be converted into a dance floor, the gilded spiral staircase that leads to a gorgeous piano lounge and bar that houses the Steinway piano that Frank Sinatra and Maria Callas used while visiting, and the well-known Ari’s Bar with bar stools upholstered from whale foreskins.

 

This legendary classic is ideal for entertainment and social gatherings. It can hold up to 157 guests for parties and events, but it can also comfortably fit a party of 34 people in 17 cabins.

 

Christina O was frequently visited by celebrities and was regarded as the undisputed queen of superyachts. Over time, notable figures from Hollywood and influential positions joined the team, including Greta Garbo, Frank Sinatra, Marilyn Monroe, Eva Peron, Elizabeth Taylor, and John F. Kennedy. In the past, marriages have also taken place on the yacht. On board, even Aristotle Onassis, the previous owner, and Jacqueline Kennedy exchanged vows.

 

Although this classic beauty is a true icon of her era, Christina O is also a well-known celebrity, having acted in several films, including Ruben Östlund’s 2022 dark comedy Triangle of Sadness and the Netflix drama The Crown, in which it impersonated the 121.95-meter Alexander.

 

After the restoration in 2022, this unique sailboat was offered for private rental. It currently lies at Nice, France, waiting for a new owner. The ideal buyer would be an enthusiastic yachtsman who is drawn to the concept of being a “steward of history” and realises that owning the most unusual craft rather than the newest and biggest is the best way to stand out from the crowd. This vintage boat is being offered for €90,000,000, or almost $96,500,000 in today’s currency.