A spectacular £200 million superyacht belonging to former Miami Dolphins owner Stephen Ross has been forced to make an unscheduled and dramatic stop on the British coast after suffering a serious mechanical failure at sea.
The 106-metre luxury vessel 'M/Y Laurel' experienced propulsion issues while navigating the English Channel, compelling the crew to seek urgent assistance. The maritime emergency unfolded as the superyacht was making its way through waters off southern England.
Limping to Safety
According to maritime tracking data and eyewitness reports, the magnificent vessel was seen moving at significantly reduced speeds before requiring tug support to safely reach Portland Harbour in Dorset. The superyacht's unexpected arrival caused quite a stir among local maritime observers.
The M/Y Laurel represents one of the world's most sophisticated private vessels, featuring multiple decks, a helicopter pad, and accommodation for numerous guests and crew. Built by Dutch shipyard Oceanco, the yacht typically cruises at speeds up to 18.5 knots, but mechanical problems left it struggling to maintain basic manoeuvrability.
Billionaire's Floating Palace
Stephen Ross, the 84-year-old real estate billionaire and sports magnate, purchased the superyacht in 2020. The vessel boasts extraordinary amenities including:
- An expansive beach club with fold-down sides
- Multiple swimming pools and jacuzzis
- A fully equipped gym and spa facilities
- Lavish guest suites with panoramic ocean views
- State-of-the-art entertainment systems
"Seeing a vessel of this calibre requiring assistance is highly unusual," noted one maritime expert. "These yachts undergo rigorous maintenance, but even the most sophisticated engineering can encounter problems."
Coastal Drama Unfolds
The incident highlights the vulnerability of even the most advanced marine vessels when technical systems fail. Local authorities monitored the situation closely as the superyacht made its careful approach to the safety of Portland Harbour.
Marine engineers and technical specialists are now assessing the extent of the repairs needed before the vessel can continue its journey. The timing of the mechanical failure remains unclear, as does the duration of the expected stay in British waters.
This maritime drama serves as a reminder that even billionaires' floating palaces are subject to the same mechanical realities as any other vessel when navigating the challenging waters of the British coastline.
