Luna: The Remarkable €50M Refit of the 115m Explorer Yacht 

After years in the Port of Dubai, the 115-meter Luna is once again on the move, setting sail for the Mediterranean. This world-class explorer yacht underwent a transformative multi-million-euro refit in 2014, elevating her to new levels of luxury and performance.

Originally designed as an elegant counterpart to the 113-meter Le Grand Bleu, Luna captured attention upon her launch, not only for her striking design but also due to her famous first owner, Roman Abramovich. Her standout feature—a vast aft deck prioritizing outdoor luxury over interior volume—boasted the largest superyacht pool of its time, a breathtaking sight, especially when empty.

Despite her status as one of the world’s most iconic explorer yachts, Luna saw little adventure in her early years. That changed in 2014 when new owners took over. After a season in the Mediterranean, they initiated a comprehensive refit alongside her five-year survey.

By 2016, Luna’s transformation was undeniable. The yacht’s expansive spaces, signature pool, and sun lounges remained, but the most striking difference was her hull—now gleaming in a custom “Luna Blue.” This mirror-finish paint job, executed by Thraki Yacht Painting, was one of the largest undertakings of the refit, requiring up to 80 painters over eight months to perfect more than 2,000 square meters of hull and superstructure.

Luna’s refit went beyond aesthetics; structural and functional enhancements were key. Her beach club and wellness area underwent major upgrades, including the installation of state-of-the-art Technogym equipment and mirrored panels in the gym, allowing guests to exercise with uninterrupted ocean views through a 12-meter shell door.

New teak decking, fresh mosaic work in the steam room, upgraded AV systems, and a redesigned beach club layout further elevated the onboard experience. The aft-facing sofa now provides panoramic sea views, replacing a traditional TV with a striking Greek fish-eye sculpture. As the owner’s representative noted, “Who needs a huge TV in a beach club? Luna is about relaxation.”

Boarding steps were also reconfigured for improved safety and convenience, allowing guests to ascend directly from the tender rather than navigating sideways—small refinements that make a big difference in comfort and accessibility.

Luna’s interiors remained faithful to Donald Starkey’s original vision, which emphasized natural materials and a tranquil, sophisticated atmosphere. The refit refreshed all cabins with new upholstery, curtains, and cutting-edge AV/IT systems while preserving the yacht’s signature style.

Under the surface, Luna’s engineering saw meticulous refinements. Her seven generators, capable of outputting 15,000hp, were optimized for efficiency and flexibility. Designed to navigate shallow ice, she can reach speeds of 21 knots with one generator offline. The refit also included shaft maintenance, new seals and bearings, and improved air conditioning in working areas, ensuring optimal crew conditions.

Several exterior modifications enhanced Luna’s onboard experience. The observation deck was expanded with a new seating area, offering prime views when arriving in port. The bridge deck’s aft section was fitted with extendable windbreaks, improving comfort in the main outdoor dining area. Two helidecks were resurfaced with Future Teak from Bolidt, complete with Luna’s logo for a refined, modern touch.

A new raised section on the aft deck, just behind the pool, introduced a defined lounging space, perfect for afternoon tea or simply unwinding in the open air. Boarding access was improved with redesigned steps that offer a seamless transition from the tender to the deck.

During Luna’s 14-month refit, approximately 130 projects were completed, ranging from minor additions—such as wine fridges—to complex overhauls like the separation of the ballast tank system. Each enhancement contributed to Luna’s evolution, refining a classic yacht while preserving her legacy.

Until now, Luna’s interiors have remained largely unseen, and she has rarely been featured publicly. But with this extensive refit, she stands as a testament to innovation and craftsmanship—Luna has truly risen once again.