christina onassis yacht for sale

Christina O up for Sale

Are you in the market for a superyacht that defines the term legendary? Christina O, the former superyacht of Aristotle Onassis, is up for sale by international superyacht firm Edmiston. For an asking price around $32 million, this palatial 99-meter luxury liner can be yours. The famous vessel was the backdrop to one of the century’s most high-profile romances, between Aristotle Onassis and Jackie Kennedy, the former wife of U.S. President John F Kennedy, and even served as the site of their 1968 wedding. With a high society guest list that included Hollywood stars, reigning monarchs, and the political giants of the day, the elegant vessel has earned an enduring place in history.

Built in 1943, Christina O was originally a World War II Canadian anti-submarine frigate, serving as a convoy escort during the Battle of the Atlantic and present at the D-Day landings. After the war, she was one of many surplus vessels, and shipping magnate Onassis purchased her as scrap metal for $34,000 in 1954. After gutting her, he invested the equivalent of $45 million today in extensive renovations to turn her into a glamorous party vessel.

The luxurious liner was as famous for its on-board romances as it was for its extravagant parties. When Prince Rainier of Monaco wed Grace Kelly in 1958, they held their wedding reception on the vessel. Prior to marrying Jackie Kennedy, Onassis carried on a famous love affair with opera singer Maria Callas on board as they cruised across Europe. Capable of accommodating 36 guests in 18 opulent staterooms, she played host to a guest list that included twice-married Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton as well as luminaries John F Kennedy, Sir Winston Churchill, King Farouk of Egypt, King Faud of Saudi Arabia, Frank Sinatra, Marilyn Monroe, and John Wayne.

Onassis died in 1975, leaving the yacht to his daughter, Christina, in his will. She in turn bequeathed it to the Greek government as a presidential yacht, where it fell into disrepair before a substantial renovation returned it to its former glory in 2001. On-board amenities include the famous minotaur-themed mosaic floored pool that converts to a dance floor at the touch of a button, as well as a library, children’s playroom, fitness center, beauty salon and massage room, and jacuzzi.

If Christina O is the boat of your dreams, Atlantic Yacht and Ship’s knowledgeable brokers will be delighted to represent your interests through every step of the purchase. If you have a different vessel in mind, we have an extensive selection of beautiful new and preowned yachts for sale , including ‘Orly’, a lovely 94′ Sunseeker Yacht for sale in Florida.

Located in Miami Beach, this 2003 yacht is often seen cruising the waters around South Florida on weekends. Orly is extensively equipped with custom features and bonuses like the secret wall that separates the galley from the dining area for formal entertaining. Another unique feature of this particular Sunseeker Yacht is the walk in closet aft of the master bed. This positioning enabled the master head to be moved forward which allowed for a private jacuzzi tub in the master (in addition to the one on the flybridge!). Her current asking price is US$ 2,599,000; contact Joe Marino at 954-328-2059 or [email protected] for more information.

Located in the heart of Ft Lauderdale, Atlantic Yacht and Ship has a full range of preowned and new yachts for sale, from a 136′ Megayacht to a 28′ Hatteras Sportfish . As a leader in the yacht brokerage industry for over 53 years, Atlantic Yacht & Ship has the experience to put you in your ideal vessel. Call today at 954-921-1500 and speak to one of our knowledgeable licensed and bonded yacht brokers or email us at [email protected] .

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• CHRISTINA O

Spotlight On  CHRISTINA O

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By Rebecca Bradbury | 15th Mar 2017

As the former vessel of billionaire shipping tycoon Aristotle Onassis, the legendary 99m/325ft superyacht ‘Christina O’ set the scene for the original jetsetters of the late-1950s and, today, continues to be among the most world’s most famous yachts.

Starting life in 1943 as a surplus Canadian war frigate, Christina O was bought in 1954 by Onassis who, as one of the richest and most famous men in the world, spent a huge sum of money transforming her into a pleasure palace for him, his family and an array of illustrious guests.

During the late 1950s, Onassis effectively established the jetset lifestyle. Under the gaze of the world’s media, the self-made magnate received a VIP list of guests aboard  superyacht ‘Christina O’ , ranging from politicians, businessmen and bankers to Hollywood movie stars such as Marilyn Monroe and Elizabeth Taylor. 

Thus, the setting for many an iconic moment in history,  this  motor yacht  was where Winston Churchill first met John F. Kennedy, where the tumultuous affair between Onassis and opera star Maria Callas began, and where Onassis married former first lady Jackie Kennedy.

But, after Onassis' death in 1975, the yacht sadly entered a period of slow deterioration. Help was eventually at hand, however, and in 1999 a friend of the family, John Paul Papanicolaou, who remembered the yacht's former glory, undertook the extensive, two-year project of faithfully restoring the superyacht.

In 2001, she emerged from the shipyard as the yacht she is today. Available for charter, she now offers the unique chance to experience the opulence of the Onassis era with the amenities expected from a modern-day superyacht.

What's more, she is one of the rare charter yachts capable of sleeping up to 36 guests while cruising on a luxury yacht charter and she can also host up to 157 guests at harbour-side events and celebrations.

Much care and effort went into restoring the important artefacts within her interior, and one such example can be seen in the Lapis Lounge.

Welcoming guests aboard on the main deck aft, the salon is named after its original, dazzling blue lapis lazuli fireplace which has been faithfully reconstructed.

With oak and iroko panelling, book-lined shelves and sumptuous pale-coloured settees, the overall look of the salon is reminiscent of an old English country manor.

Yet teak floorboards serve as a reminder of being at sea, and artworks by Renoir, Le Corbusier and de Chirico add to the grandeur of the setting.

Ari’s Bar is christened in tribute to Aristotle himself as this was one of his favourite places in which to enjoy a drink

A door to starboard opens forward, from the Lapis Lounge into the teak-lined Ari’s bar, christened in tribute to Aristotle himself as this was one of his favourite places on board in which to enjoy a drink and socialise with his guests.

A small and cosy place to relax, the room focuses on the original rope-covered bar, which is reputedly made from the timbers of an old Spanish galleon. A huge map of the wall lines the wall, while housed in the glass-topped bar are models depicting Christina O through the ages.

Whale’s teeth form handles around the bar’s edge, acting as a grip to keep one’s seat on the bar stools in rough weather. Historically famous, these original stools are made from the leather of a whale’s foreskin and continue to be a conversation starter on today's charters.

During her recent transformation, Christina O’s old central steam engines, which extended upwards through three decks, were replaced with smaller diesels. This change means space once taken up by one of these regions now serves as a large dining salon.

Located forward of Ari’s bar, the salon centres on a long, 24-seater table reflected in a backlit glass panel on the ceiling. To port, a raised plinth hosts four smaller tables for a more intimate dining experience, while pillars and a shiny marble floor further enhance the splendour.

To starboard, glazed panelling partially divides the salon from a music lounge. Fitted out with a grand piano and a collection of Maria Callas memorabilia, the room is one of four guest lounges on board and is a light and airy escape thanks to large windows and a light colour palette.

Exiting the salon forward, the corridor opens out into a breathtaking atrium, with a majestic staircase and brass and onyx handrail that spirals upwards. Best taken in from above, there is a spectacular mosaic on the floor depicting Onassis' Omega emblem.

The staircase gently ascends to the promenade deck above, where an oval-shaped, oak-panelled library is located forward off the lobby. Features include green upholstered seating, an extensive collection of books and double doors that open into the spacious Maria Callas Lounge.

The oak panelling continues and Giorgetti sofas create three sumptuous seating areas, but the main focus is on a raised plinth forward, which can be used as a stage for live music. A drop-down screen and state-of-the-art surround sound system means movie nights can also take place here.

Aft of the central lobby, meanwhile, is the Sports Lounge. Cards and backgammon can be played around three games tables, while a curved glass walls divides the lounge from a children’s play room decorated in a colourful mural.

There is also space here, on the port-side, for a fully-equipped gymnasium. Work out while taking in glorious ocean vistas before indulging in a massage or spa treatment from the on-board therapist in the adjoining beauty salon and treatment room.

Purely the domain of the principal charterer is the expansive and luxurious Onassis Suite

The bridge deck is also accessed from the central staircase, but this is purely the domain of the principal charterer and the captain as sitting behind the bridge itself is the expansive and luxurious Onassis Suite.

An oak-panelled study, which also serves as a cosy lounge, with the original onyx fireplace provides entry into the sleeping quarters forward. Fine Venetian linen drapes the large bed, the original Baccarat crystal lights line the walls and white Penteli marble glistens in the bathroom.

Ten guest staterooms, meanwhile, span off a long central corridor on the main deck forward, with the remaining eight cabins situated towards the aft end of the lower deck. Those nearer the centre of Christina O are bigger in size, with writing desks and larger walk-in wardrobes.

However, all cabins can serve as either doubles or twins, ensuring an extremely flexible accommodation setup on board, and all boast wall panels, a tranquil pastel colour palette, prints of the Greek islands and marble-lined shower rooms.

Opportunities for entertainment and relaxation continue onto Christina O’s generous decks. Referred to as the compass deck, her top tier features a line-up of sun loungers, a bar and, of course, fabulous ocean views.

On the deck below, a clear expanse of teak deck forms a versatile space aft of the funnel. Extremely flexible, this space perfectly adapts to whatever occassion charterers have on the agenda.

Staircases to port and starboard sweep down to the promenade deck, so called as yacht-goers can circulate the whole level.

Well-equipped for hosting large numbers, the deck features a helipad aft, which is looked over by an inviting Jacuzzi. After guests have taken a dip, they can sip cocktails at the large, circular bar before dinner is served at one of the six circular tables.  

There is also space for sun loungers, and the whole setup enables the charter party to unwind and make the most of Christina O's alfresco offerings without interfering with one another.

The outdoor offering on the main deck aft, meanwhile, very much resembles the setup of Onassis’ day. Here, the famous swimming pool with its mosaic of the Minoan bull and vaulter from the palace at Knossos has been painstakingly recreated.

Another highlight of the pool is that its floor can raise, draining the water to form a dance floor or other area in which to socialise - an innovative asset which the original boasted. The two pictures (above-right) indicate the floor in both positions.

Such a feature was extremely revolutionary in the 1950s and one which is still replicated on superyachts today, reflecting just how groundbreaking Christina O was at the time of her launch.

The area forward of the swimming pool is home to a long, rectangular dining table, lounging options, and bollards and windlasses that appear in iconic images as posing stools for many of Onassis' famous guests.   

Christina O offers the unparalleled opportunity to walk in the footsteps of some of the greatest names of the twentieth century

There can be no doubt that M/Y Christina O is in a league of her own. Not only does she offer the unparalleled opportunity to walk in the footsteps of some of the greatest names of the twentieth century, she is resplendent in modern facilities and surpasses most other superyachts in terms of accommodating large numbers of guests. 

For further information, please speak to your preferred  charter broker .

Charter Specification

• Christina O

Builder Canadian Vickers

Interior Designer Apostolos Molindris & Associates

Exterior Designer Caesar Pinnau

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A $32-Million Piece of History

• By Yachting Staff
• Updated: July 16, 2013

Yacht Christina O

The barstools covered in whale foreskin are the stuff of legend. The mosaic swimming pool has cooled everything from the political temper of Winston Churchill to the sexy bottom of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. The lyrical stylings of opera singer and Onassis paramour Maria Callas are enshrined in the sitting room.

All of it can be yours for a cool $32 million, give or take the euro-dollar exchange rate.

Christina O is a 325-foot motoryacht that was built in 1943 as a Canadian anti-submarine frigate called HMCS Stormont. Onassis bought her in 1954 for $34,000 and then spent several million dollars renovating her into a proper yacht, making her so luxurious that she was chosen for the wedding reception of Princess Grace and Prince Rainier of Monaco.

Onassis died in 1975, leaving Christina O to his daughter, for whom the yacht is named. She gave the yacht to the Greek government for use as a presidential yacht. In 2001, Christina O was relaunched by an Onassis family friend who spent several years and a reported $50 million renovating her. She entered the luxury charter market, accommodating 36 guests for select clientele in the Mediterranean.

“It really was the last word in opulence,” Edmiston and Company Chairman Nicholas Edmiston says of Christina O .

Learn more at www.edmistoncompany.com.

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Christina O

Motor Yacht

Mega yacht Christina O is the epitome of elegance and luxury and embodies the legend that was Aristotle Onassis. In her original heyday, motor yacht Christina O defined a new category in luxury yachting and hosted some of the world’s most glittering personalities such as Sir Winston Churchill, John F.Kennedy, Marilyn Monroe, Elizabeth Taylor, John Wayne and countless others.

Originally built in 1943 for use as a Canadian convoy escort, Christina O came into her own when Onassis purchased her in 1954 and converted the sumptuous megayacht at the expense of over US $4m. Christina O became Onassis’ floating mansion and headquarters for over two decades until his death in 1975. Christina Onassis, namesake of the vessel and Aristotle’s daughter, donated her to the Greek government in 1978 where she fell into disrepair. A close family friend purchased Christina O in 1998 and financed an extensive refurbishment and re-powering which has helped restore this incredible yacht to her former glory with the addition of all the latest technology and equipment.

Chartering luxury megayacht Christina O is a spectacular opportunity for those who desire a cruising holiday with the utmost of style and comfort. Christina O’s capacious deck can host up to 250 guests beneath extensive canopies, perfect for a special occasion or one-off corporate incentive. Retaining a dazzling atmosphere of opulence, many photographs and original items from her early days when her guests and cruising destinations were regularly reported in the news.

Christina O boasts eighteen exquisite en-suite cabins, fourteen of which can be configured for either double or twin beds and 10 of which lie forward on the main deck while the remaining eight are housed aft on the cabin deck. The cabins all have an en-suite shower room and are connected by an elegant marble-railed spiral staircase that covers three decks. The Onassis suite is situated on the bridge deck and holds a spacious bathroom with Jacuzzi tub and a private en-suite lounge. The intricate detailing throughout this incredible yacht, from its excess of precious inlay and Baccarat wall lights, is sure to astound.

Other amenities onboard Christina O includes the following: the Galaxy Bar and extensive sunbathing decks on the Compass deck, show lounge, library, massage and beauty salon, children’s playroom, fitness centre, sports lounge and large Jacuzzi on the Promenade deck, ‘Rendezvous’ music lounge, impressive interior dining room, Ari’s Bar, Lapis Lounge and the famous swimming pool whose floor is a replication of the ancient mosaic of Knossos and converts to a dance floor located on the Main deck.

Christina O is available for charter in the Mediterranean for the summer season and the Caribbean and Bahamas during the winter season.

• Yacht Builder Canadian Vickers No profile available
• Exterior Designer Caesar Pinnau No profile available
• Interior Designer Apostolos Molindris & Associates No profile available

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Aristotle Onassis' Christina O Yacht Is On Sale For $32.4 Million, Includes Spa, Sports Lounge & Beauty Salon (PHOTOS)

Associate Editor HuffPost Home

It's not every day you get a chance to own a piece of property that once served guests like the Kennedys, Grace Kelly and Frank Sinatra. But now that Aristotle Onassis' Christina O yacht is on sale, you can... if your pockets are deep enough.

Bought by the shipping tycoon in 1954 and named after his daughter, the 325-foot-vessel is current for sale by the Edmiston Company for $32.4 million. According to the Daily Mail, after the purchase, Onassis performed extensive renovations so he could host fabulous affairs. Like what for instance? Well, it's where President John F. Kennedy first met Sir. Winston Churchill. Oh, and where Princess Grace and Prince Rainier held their wedding reception.

The yacht can accommodate 34 guests and has a library, sports lounge, spa room and beauty salon. Yacht broker Nicholas Edmiston to the Associated Press that he thinks there are about 10 people who might want to buy the Christina O -- are you one of them?

Scroll through to see photos of this amazing and historic yacht, and be sure to head over to Edmiston Company and the Daily Mail for more information .

Onassis Super Yacht

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The real story behind the Triangle of Sadness superyacht

When an unhinged captain, celebrity model couple and an elderly arms dealer find themselves on a luxury cruise ship, things take a turn for the worse in Ruben Östlund's Triangle of Sadness. As the glossy satire is released in theatres, we dive into the colourful history of the film's true star (no, not Woody Harrelson), the 99.15 metre superyacht Christina O .

Christina O is no stranger to celebrity fanfare. With classic lines and a trademark yellow funnel, some might say she was destined for the screen and even secured a role in Netflix drama The Crown , starring as the 121.95 metre Alexander , before landing the part of a luxury cruiser in the 2022 comedy Triangle of Sadness. Even in her early years she was often found in the company of A-listers. The former warship was famously rescued and rebuilt by Greek shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis and her guest list reads like a who's who of Hollywood's finest, the likes of Marilyn Monroe, Frank Sinatra, Elizabeth Taylor, Greta Garbo and Grace Kelley having all graced her decks.

Spending $4 million on a yacht in the years of austerity after the Second World War seemed an act of frivolity by Onassis , but it was shrewd philosophy that underpinned what appeared to be a wasteful extravagance. The Canadian anti-submarine frigate HMCS Stormont , which he bought for its scrap value of $34,000 in 1954, was transformed into Christina O : a pleasure palace that vastly enhanced his status – and wealth – as film stars, politicians, bankers and businessmen answered his invitation to ‘come aboard’. 

What sets Onassis apart from the more patrician yacht owners of the day, who valued their privacy above all else, is that he virtually wrote the manual for today’s superyacht lifestyle. Espadrilled, tanned and always with an eye open beneath his sunglasses to the possibilities of a little publicity, he epitomised the roguish glamour of the mega-rich. Who didn’t aspire to a lifestyle that revolved around beautiful women, yachts and film stars? Yet, as a shrewd businessman, he was among the first to realise the potential of a yacht as a business tool. Who knows how many lucrative doors a few days’ hospitality aboard Christina O opened up for the man who began his career as a refugee from Turkish Anatolia with $250 in his pocket and a ticket to Argentina, where he made his first fortune.

Christina O was named after his first-born child, who inherited her father’s yacht at his death in 1975. However, with the memories of those carefree days perhaps too poignant, Christina donated her namesake to the Greek government in 1978, and a period of slow deterioration followed. Greece was in the hands of a left-wing regime, and the former plaything of a capitalist millionaire was embarrassing.

The yacht was rescued in 1999 by an Onassis family friend, John Paul Papanicolaou, who set about restoring her. The work was more extensive than first thought – 560 tonnes of new steel were required to replace corroded plating – but now with MAN diesels in place of her original steam turbines and many of her original fittings retained, she charters extremely successfully, her 17 cabins putting her into the exclusive mini-cruise liner market, a role that suits her perfectly.

Christina O has undergone numerous refits in recent years, which saw some mechanical and repair work undertaken, including careful restoration of her famous Minotaur mosaic swimming pool/dance floor. A new ‘Callas stage’ was also constructed and installed around the base of the funnel. Although there is an official concert room below – for events like the Maria Callas opera recitals that showcase the yacht’s links to the famous soprano – it was considered that in view of all the available Mediterranean sunshine going to waste, an alternative outdoor space would be a sound investment.

The most preserved areas are the Onassis Suite, the famous Ari’s Bar and the concert room. All guest cabins have been completely refurbished in similar style and still use the names of Greek islands, as accorded by Onassis. The pastel colour scheme in all of the cabins was selected by Jackie O and her choice of colour schemes and décor.

Ari’s Bar is one of the most historical parts of the Christina O . Engraved orca whale teeth provide places to hang a handbag, or hold on to, around the circumference of the bar, whose surface is still the original massive piece of timber from a sunken Spanish galleon. Similar orca teeth offer footrests on the stool columns, which are covered with the whale penis skin that Aristotle loved to tell his guests about.

Countless reams have been written about this famous yacht in gossip columns, scandal sheets, fashion magazines and yachting journals – probably more so than any other yacht afloat. Christina O is a celebrity in her own right and represents a golden age, an era of giants, from those who owned her to those who trod her decks and gave everlasting ambience to her interior spaces.

While she is truly an icon of her time, her legacy lives on both on and off the screen.

Christina O is available for charter with Morley Yachts from €700,000 per week.

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Jackie O’s superyacht Christina O goes on sale for €25m

The 99m superyacht Christina O, previously owned by Aristotle Onassis, is being sold for €25m

The 99m vessel shot to fame in the 1950s when she played host to a wealth of celebrities including Frank Sinatra, Marilyn Monroe, Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton and John Wayne. Even Winston Churchill was invited on board.

Christina O was also the setting for the wedding reception when Onassis married Jackie Kennedy in 1968. She was built as a World War II surplus Canadian frigate in 1943 and was bought by Onassis in 1954 when he paid scrap value ($34,000) for her.

When the shipping tycoon died, the iconic superyacht was passed down to his daughter Christina, who bequeathed the vessel to the Greek government as a presidential yacht.

In 1999 Christina O was rescued by family friend John Paul Papanicolaou, who restored her. She is one of the few ex-private yachts capable of international cruising with up to 36 passengers.

Christina O recently came fourth in SuperYacht World’s poll of the Top 50 Finest Superyachts in the World . She’s being sold by Edmiston .

Watch CBS News

Onassis yacht goes on sale for $32.4 million

July 3, 2013 / 11:47 AM EDT / AP

LONDON You get the ship, and you get a slice of history too.

A mega-yacht that belonged to the late Greek shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis is up for sale with an asking price of 25 million euros ($32.4 million).

Yacht broker Nicholas Edmiston said Wednesday he believes there are about 10 people in the world who might be interested in buying the Christina O.

The 325-foot (100 meter) vessel's guest list is impressive. Future U.S. President John F. Kennedy first met Winston Churchill at the ship's bar in 1957, and other prominent guests included Grace Kelly, who had her wedding reception on board, Frank Sinatra, Marilyn Monroe, Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton. Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis was also a frequent passenger, of course.

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Aristotle Onassis's yacht Christina O put up for sale

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There are the haves and the have-yachts - and then there are those who can afford £21 million yachts.

That is the sum needed to buy the superyacht Christina O, formerly owned by shipping tycoon Aristotle Onassis, which has been put up for sale.

Built in 1943, the Christina O was bought by Onassis for 34,000 US dollars in 1954 and, after extensive and expensive renovations, he hosted star-studded parties on board during the late 1950s.

Guests included John F Kennedy, Winston Churchill, Frank Sinatra, Marilyn Monroe, Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton and John Wayne.

In 1956 Princess Grace and Prince Rainier held their wedding reception on the yacht.

Onassis' s love affair with opera singer Maria Callas was also played out on board but in 1968 that ended abruptly when Onassis courted President Kennedy's widow, Jackie. The couple married on the Christina O near Onassis's private island of Scorpios.

In 1975, Onassis died and the yacht was gifted to his daughter, Christina, in his will. She in turn bequeathed it to the Greek government as a presidential yacht.

More than 20 years later, Christina O was substantially renovated and finally restored to its former glory in 2001.

The 325ft (99m) vessel has a 35-strong crew and can accommodate 36 guests in 18 staterooms and the Onassis Suite.

On-board facilities include a library, sports lounge, children's playroom, fitness centre, beauty salon and massage room and jacuzzi.

The yacht has been put up for sale via Edmiston, a specialist agent in the yacht sector.

Chairman Nicholas Edmiston said: "Aristotle Onassis saw Christina O as a powerful symbol of his growing business empire.

"It really was the last word in opulence and many personalities were attracted by its ability to offer them some privacy, not just by its magnificence."

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• Christina O

KEY FEATURES

• The yacht with a story of romance
• Can cruise at night, to a new anchorage each day
• Spa with 2 therapists full time for massage and treatments
• 17 cabins. Can have 157 guests at anchor
• Chefs are really fantastic! Food is amazing
• New swim platform
• Classified RYA training centre, with watersports instructor
• Onassis Suite master cabin amidships near the bridge

Christina O:  Onassis was a visionary. As one of the great businessmen of his time, Onassis chose not to build a new yacht in one of his northern European shipyards, but he chose to transform a ship that already had character and charm. That character and charm is even more evident today after multiple refits and improvements.

There are many ways to enjoy Christina O . She was designed as an impressive yet cosy venue for the world’s most influential people to be entertained. Heads of state and business leaders were invited to socialise with the most beautiful and talented musicians – relationships were forged and developed for the mutual benefit of all.

It is a remarkable opportunity to be able to charter this yacht today for similar entertaining, and benefit from her charm without the cost of ownership.

There are still very few yachts that can accommodate more than 12 Guests, and Christina O is one of them. Not only does she have 17 cabins , but she can also cruise close to shore with up to 157 Guests on board. She is perfect for birthday parties , weddings , anniversaries , and corporate entertaining .

The yacht has a remarkable selection of toys and watersports equipment , so for a charter that is all about fun with family and friends Christina O can compete with the modern large yachts in terms of inventory, while offering something extra in terms of deck space and style.

The yacht’s Head Chef produces Michelin Star standard cuisine, assisted by the Pastry Chef to create fabulous desserts . There is also a Sous Chef that is a Sushi Master and expert in Asian and Japanese cuisine. If wine is something you want to enjoy, there is a wine expert available as part of the Christina O team.

You will find the yacht offers flexibility and enthusiasm for any project you may wish to consider. With the cost of running a yacht like this with 38 crew , charter represents fantastic value.

THE LAST WORD IN OPULENCE

As once described by the king of Egypt, CHRISTINA O is perhaps the most written about yacht in history. This legendary vessel has witnessed some of the most iconic events over the last century, from serving in World War II at the D-Day Landings to hosting the world’s most influential people during Onassis’ glorious years.

Today available for charter, she remains the perfect setting for world-class entertaining, offering a unique opportunity to cruise in style and comfort.

GLAMOUR & ROMANCE

In 1954, Greek shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis acquired for scrap value a Canadian frigate that had seen action in Normandy during World War II . Even in today’s world, her 325 feet in length turn heads, so imagine the astonishment 60 years ago when he decided to rebuild and renovate her, turning her into one of the world’s most famous superyachts.

Christina, christened in honour of his daughter, or CHRISTINA O as she is known today, wined and dined world leaders, Hollywood elite and numerous other dignitaries for nearly two decades under his ownership. Winston Churchill , John Fitzgerald Kennedy , ballerina Margot Fonteyn , John Wayne , Maria Callas and Marilyn Monroe were all guests on the yacht over the years.

Upon Onassis’ death in 1975, CHRISTINA O passed to the Greek government, for use as a presidential yacht. Unfortunately, the government could not keep up with the maintenance costs for very long. CHRISTINA O deteriorated for years, until the late 1990s, when a team stepped in to rescue her.

Today, after many refits and continuous improvements, you can walk on the same decks and in the same rooms, meticulously restored, as Richard Burton and Elisabeth Taylor as well as all those other famous guests. You can relax in one of the Hollywood couple’s favorite places, in front of the lapis lazuli-fronted fireplace, in the main deck’s Lapis Lounge, while Maria Callas’ opera notes still play in the Callas Lounge .

The master suite is spacious, with a sitting room and library. 10 main deck cabins extend from amidships, where they are larger due to the beam. The two cabins in the bow are smaller and are the only ones that don’t convert double to twin. The 6 cabins on the lower deck aft are also wider amidships, and gradually smaller as you go aft. They convert from double to twin, and have the same kind of amenities and bathrooms. Audio Visual Equipment and Deck Facilities: Satellite TV Receivers Flat screen TV’s, DVD players in each cabin Cinema in the Callas lounge 3 Pianos on board, 2 original Steinway and 1 Roland RG – 7 Ipod docking station in the Callas lounge, lapis Lounge, Aris Bar, Jacuzzi bar, pool deck

• Air conditioning
• Deck Jacuzzi
• Elevator/lift
• Flat screen TV
• Gym/exercise equipment
• Hi-Fi System
• iPod docking station
• iPod connection in each cabin
• Satcom and cellular communications facilities
• Satellite television
• Stabilisers underway
• Swimming Platform
• Swimming Pool
• WiFi connection on board
• Helicopter pad emergency use only
• NEW TV in all cabins and saloon
• Satellite TV
• Hi Speed Internet access with Wifi
• Jacuzzi/pool on deck / lift – atrium
• 2 massage rooms, 1 beauty room, fitness
• therapists are included in the charter rate at no additional cost

Communications:

• V Sat and GSM
• Cellular phone/Fax through PABX
• Wifi in the Library, Onassis Suite, Guest Cabins, Callas Lounge, Lapis Lounge, Aris Bar, Jacuzzi bar and pool deck.

Gym equipment:

• 2 Cybex semi-recumbant bicycles – programmable
• 1 Power Plate
• 1 Life Fitness 9500 HR ellipitical bike cross trainer
• 1 LifeFitness Treadmill 9500 HR
• Various free weights + bench
• inflatable swim platform
• 2 x passenger Hacker Craft Prestige varnished launches carrying 8 Guests
• 2 x 60-man watercraft lifeboats; Liferafts 8 x 20 pax + 2 x 25 pax
• 1 x RIB tender “Black Mamba” 850
• 1 x sports tender “Olympic Cruiser” 720
• Various snorkelling equipment
• 1 x 6-man banana
• 1 Yacht Toboggan Aquaglide with a 6.50 m slide
• RYA watersport center
• 2 Seadoo Spark 900 HO 3 seats with IBR system1 Seadoo GTI 120 CV for1 Hoverboard

Destinations

Virgin islands, aeolian islands, amalfi coast, canary islands, french riviera, ionian greece, italy yacht charter vacation, mediterranean yacht charter vacation, new england, portofino & cinque terre, tuscan archipelago, weekly charter rate (€).

• Low Season 620000
• High Season 700000

Specifications

• Length (m) 99,13
• Beam (m) 11.12
• Draft (m) 4.10
• Year Built 1943/2018
• Shipyard Canadian Vickers
• Cruising Speed (Knots) 14
• Hull Construction Steel
• Hull Configuration Displacement
• Guest On Quay 250
• Available For Events Yes
• CALL US - +44(0)7885 912 512
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On board Aristotle Onassis' floating palace: Superyacht that hosted tycoon's wedding party to Jackie O and was the height of 1950s opulence goes on sale for $21MILLION

• Built in 1943, the Christina O was bought by shipping tycoon Aristotle Onassis for $34,000 in 1954
• Onassis hosted star-studded parties on board during the late 1950s
• Guests included John F Kennedy, Winston Churchill, Frank Sinatra, Marilyn Monroe and Elizabeth Taylor
• In 1956 Princess Grace and Prince Rainier held their wedding reception on the yacht

By Jill Reilly

Published: 08:58 EDT, 2 July 2013 | Updated: 15:08 EDT, 2 July 2013

View comments

The glamorous superyacht has hosted star-studded parties for the likes of John F Kennedy, Winston Churchill, Frank Sinatra and Marilyn Monroe.

And now Christina O, formerly owned by shipping tycoon Aristotle Onassis, has been put up for sale for a cool $21million (£13m).

Once a jewel of the sea, the yacht has now lost out to more ostentatious offerings such as the Eclipse, a $1.5billion vessel belonging to Russian oligarch Roman Abramovich.

Scroll down for video

Up for sale: Superyacht Christina O, formerly owned by shipping tycoon Aristotle Onassis, which has been put up for sale with a $21m price tag

Glittering past: Built in 1943, the Christina O was bought by Onassis for $34,000 in 1954 and, after extensive and expensive renovations, he hosted star-studded parties on board during the late 1950s

Onassis's love affair with opera singer Maria Callas, both seen left, on the boat, was also played out on board but in 1968 that ended abruptly when Onassis courted President Kennedy's widow, Jackie.  The couple, seen right,  married near Onassis's private island of Scorpios and went back on to the Christina O

Hollywood glamour: Richard Burton phones London from the yacht while Elizabeth Taylor chats to the Vicomtesse de Ribes. The pair attended Onassis' party while the yacht was anchored of St Marks Square in Venice

Built in 1943, the vessel was originally a Canadian anti-submarine River-class frigate called HMCS Stormont and was launched in 1943.

She served as a convoy escort during the Battle of the Atlantic and was present at the D-Day landings.

After the end of the Second World War she was one of many surplus naval vessels; Greek shipowner Aristotle Onassis purchased her for its scrap value for $34,000 in 1954. 

After extensive and expensive renovations, he hosted star-studded parties on board during the late 1950s.

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Guests included John F Kennedy, Winston Churchill, Frank Sinatra, Marilyn Monroe, Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton and John Wayne.

In 1956 Princess Grace and Prince Rainier held their wedding reception on the yacht.

Onassis's love affair with opera singer Maria Callas was also played out on board but in 1968 that ended abruptly when Onassis courted President Kennedy's widow, Jackie.

The story goes that when Sir Winston Churchill, a frequent guest on his yacht, asked him to invite JFK, then a promising young senator, and his wife, Jackie, to a party aboard the yacht during their visit to Monte Carlo, Onassis took delight in telling the couple they were not invited to join Churchill for dinner and must leave by 8pm.

But he was impressed by Jackie: 'There is something provocative about that lady. She has a carnal soul.'

The couple later married on the Christina O near Onassis's private island of Scorpios - the marriage lasted six years, marked from beginning to end by calamity.

His son Alexander perished in a plane crash at the age of 24, his first wife Tina died of a drug overdose, and his daughter Christina's life was troubled.

In 1975, Onassis died and the yacht was gifted to his daughter, Christina, in his will. She in turn bequeathed it to the Greek government as a presidential yacht.

Scene: Onassis's love affair with opera singer Maria Callas was also played out on board but in 1968 that ended abruptly when Onassis courted President Kennedy's widow, Jackie

The Onassis Suite on the super yacht: The 325ft (99m) vessel has a 35-strong crew and can accommodate 36 guests in 18 staterooms

Luxury: On-board facilities include a library, sports lounge, children's playroom, fitness centre, beauty salon and massage room and jacuzzi

Gift: In 1975, Onassis died and the yacht was gifted to his daughter, Christina, in his will. She in turn bequeathed it to the Greek government as a presidential yacht

More than 20 years later, Christina O was substantially renovated and finally restored to its former glory in 2001.

The 325ft (99m) vessel has a 35-strong crew and can accommodate 36 guests in 18 staterooms and the Onassis Suite.

On-board facilities include a library, sports lounge, children's playroom, fitness centre, beauty salon and massage room and jacuzzi.

Jacqueline Onassis is reported to have selected the pastel color scheme and decor in all of the cabins.

The yacht has been put up for sale via Edmiston, a specialist agent in the yacht sector.

Chairman Nicholas Edmiston said: 'Aristotle Onassis saw Christina O as a powerful symbol of his growing business empire.

'It really was the last word in opulence and many personalities were attracted by its ability to offer them some privacy, not just by its magnificence.'

Makeover: Christina O was substantially renovated and finally restored to its former glory in 2001

Power: The yacht has been put up for sale via Edmiston, a specialist agent in the yacht sector. Chairman Nicholas Edmiston said: 'Aristotle Onassis saw Christina O as a powerful symbol of his growing business empire.

Happier times: A photograph of Aristotle and Jackie Onassis on the superyacht

Political: Former British Prime Minster Winston Churchill with Aristotle Onassis on the yacht during Christmas 1959

The couple hosted many parties on the boat - it became the centre of their social life

Holiday: Onassis and his wife, the former Jacqueline Kennedy, are shown aboard their yacht the Christina, shortly before sailing to Martinique

Opulence: The yacht docked near the shore during its golden days. Mr Edmiston said: 'It really was the last word in opulence and many personalities were attracted by its ability to offer them some privacy, not just by its magnificence;

CHRISTINA O: BUILT IN 1954 FOR $35,000

• 325 ft long
• Accommodates 34 guests and 35 crew
• Maximum speed of 19.5 knots
• One helicopter pad on the promenade deck
• Outdoor pool with a minotaur-themed mosaic floor that rises at the push of a button to form a dance floor
• Master suite and eighteen passenger staterooms
• Numerous indoor and outdoor living areas, all connected by a spiral staircase.
• Built in 1954 for $35,000

ECLIPSE: BUILT IN 2010 FOR $1.6 BILLION

• Owned by Roman Abramovich, worth $12.7billion
• 557ft long, the biggest in the world
• Accommodates 62 guests and 50 crew
• Maximum speed of 25 knots
• Two helicopter pads
• Two swimming pools, several hot tubs, steam room and disco hall
• Bullet-proof windows and its own missile defence system
• Master suite is armour-plated and has retractable roof
• Has a mini submarine with internal boarding for quick escape
• Anti-paparazzi shield with lasers to block camera lenses
• Built in Germany in 2010, at cost of almost $1.6billion

Share or comment on this article: On board Aristotle Onassis' floating palace: Christina O superyacht goes on sale for $21MILLION

I would still rather have the Christina O than any...

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You Can Now Rent Jackie and Aristotle Onassis’s Former Yacht for $90,000 a Day

The greek shipping magnate's legendary yacht, which once hosted a-list stars, is now available to charter., max berlinger, max berlinger's most recent stories.

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• Share This Article

In 1954, Greek shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis bought a Canadian convoy escort and spent $4 million refurbishing it to his specifications, transforming it into a luxurious vessel fit for a man who made his fortune as the owner of fleets of ships. The yacht, christened the Christina O after his daughter, was a floating palace. Indeed, during the decades that he owned it, the ship became his de facto residence, headquarters, and vacation home, until his death in 1975.

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The ship was donated by his daughter (now deceased) to the Greek government in 1978 and acquired by a family friend in 1998 who then restored it (additional updates were made in 2015 and 2018). Today, the yacht and a slice of history and glamor that can be yours for the taking—or, more accurately, the renting—for a little under $100,000 a day.

The Christina O at sea.  Stef Bravin

Valef Yachts is now offering up charters of the luxurious vessel that hosted Jacqueline Kennedy, later to become Onassis’s wife, and a roster of glittering, high-profile A-listers like Marilyn Monroe, Frank Sinatra, and Princess Grace of Monaco. A one-night charter on the yacht will cost you €80,000 (or around $90,000) except during the high season (July and August) when that number jumps up to €90,000 (or $101,000).

Aristotle Onassis hosting guests, including Jacqueline Kennedy, on his yacht.  Uncredited/AP/Shutterstock

Of course for that price, this is one supremely luxurious cruise that comes equipped with everything you could imagine and a few things you can’t. The ship itself has been thoughtfully restored, and can accommodate up to 34 people in 17 cabins (but can host 250 for a party or event). It comes with a crew 38 strong, and it features a salt water swimming pool, jacuzzi, library, a fitness lounge (with therapists included), two massage rooms and a beauty parlor, a dance floor, a central atrium, and a bar.

Of course, as one astute legend pointed out, the yacht’s vast amenities were not even its most intoxicating quality:

“I don’t think there is a man or woman on earth who would not be seduced by the pure narcissism shamelessly flaunted on this boat,” Richard Burton famously said. “I have found that to be so.”

Now it’s your turn. 

Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor on the Christina O. in 1975.  Harry Fox/Shutterstock

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