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Three Classic Yachts Still Ruling the Sea Today
In an industry driven by innovation and luxury, a few iconic yachts continue to prove that heritage still holds a powerful allure. These classic vessels, restored, refined, and rich with history, offer a yachting experience defined by character and craftsmanship. Here are three of the finest still actively cruising.
PALOMA, 60m, 1965
Built by Ishikawajima-Harima in Japan and impeccably maintained through multiple refits, PALOMA is a rare blend of mid-century elegance and modern engineering. Her 2020 upgrades included overhauled systems and refreshed interiors, all while preserving her classic lines and wood panelling. With just two owners in six decades, PALOMA has remained true to her roots, continuously offering transatlantic range, low-maintenance simplicity, and a deep sense of legacy. She appeals to buyers seeking more than just volume: they want history, and PALOMA delivers it.
HAIDA G, 71m, 1929
Launched in 1929 by German shipbuilder Krupp Germaniawerft, HAIDA G has lived many lives, having served as both a naval patrol vessel and a society yacht. Restored in the 2000s and last refitted in 2018, she now combines art deco interiors with modern amenities like a cinema, spa, and sundeck Jacuzzi. Still driven by her original engines, HAIDA G is a working tribute to early 20th-century engineering and admired for her blend of history and comfort.
MADIZ, 55m, 1902
The oldest Lloyd’s-classed yacht still afloat, MADIZ was built in Scotland by Ailsa Shipyard and has remained in service for over 120 years. Her Victorian-style interiors, seven guest cabins, and classic tenders offer an authentic experience rarely found in today’s market. Refitted multiple times yet retaining her original spirit, MADIZ is a living reminder of yachting’s earliest era, and a compelling option for owners drawn to heritage over high-tech.
Classic yachts like PALOMA, HAIDA G, and MADIZ stand apart not for their speed or size, but for their stories. In a fast-changing world, they offer a tangible connection to the past while still sailing forward.