Now boarding: priceless works of art. Read how superyacht owners are turning their boats into floating galleries.
But creating a hospitable environment takes work. It’s not a good idea to put art near open doors or close to the water, so some owners plan their yachts’ interiors around their collections. And because natural and artificial light can damage masterworks, it’s suggested that a conservator conducts a lux-hour survey prior to installing any pieces—even in rooms shielded by UV-protected glass. Having a fine-art insurance policy that covers works installed on a yacht is imperative.
“Many collectors will own the original artwork but have a copy created to put on their boat,” Fox Kelly tellsthe 483-footer owned by Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed al-Nahyan, speculate breathlessly that its hundreds of artworks are worth more than double the ship itself. If that seems extreme, consider the superyacht