paul allen yacht submarine

Ocean Discoveries

Paul Allen's 414-foot superyacht is for sale for $325 million. Take a look at the late Microsoft cofounder's yacht, which has 2 helipads and a glass-bottomed underwater lounge.

• Paul Allen's former 414-foot superyacht is for sale for 295 million euros , or about $325 million, yacht brokerage Burgess told Business Insider.
• The Lürssen-built yacht, Octopus , has eight decks, an elevator, a cinema, two helipads, and a glass-bottomed underwater observation lounge.
• The yacht, which Allen reportedly paid about $200 million to have built, has been spotted cruising all around the world in places like Cannes , Hong Kong , Argentina, the Philippines, and even Antarctica .
• The late Microsoft cofounder was known to throw lavish themed parties on board that were attended by A-listers including George Lucas , Mick Jagger, Karlie Kloss , and Chloe Sevigny.
• Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories .

A superyacht that belonged to late Microsoft cofounder Paul Allen has hit the market for 295 million euros, or about $325 million, yacht brokerage Burgess told Business Insider.

The 414-foot yacht, Octopus, has eight decks, an elevator, a cinema, two helipads, and a glass-bottomed underwater observation lounge. Allen reportedly paid about $200 million to have the superyacht built by Lürssen. It was officially launched in 2003.

Allen was known for hosting star-studded parties on his yacht during the Cannes International Film Festival in France. Guests have reportedly included George Lucas, Mick Jagger, Karlie Kloss, and Chloe Sevigny.

The vessel is one of several assets the late billionaire's estate has put up for sale since his death, including a $110 million Beverly Hills property and a MiG-29 fighter jet.

Take a look at Allen's superyacht and the places it's cruised, from Cannes and London to Argentina and Hong Kong.

Paul Allen's superyacht, Octopus, has hit the market for 295 million euros, or about $325 million.

The Microsoft cofounder, who died in October 2018 , reportedly paid about $200 million to have the superyacht built by Lürssen.

The 414-foot yacht, which was built in 2003 and refitted in 2019, has some truly lavish amenities spread out over its eight decks.

On its entertainment deck , the yacht has a cinema, gym, spa, and a basketball court. 

It also comes with a glass-bottomed underwater observation lounge and a hyperbaric chamber.

On its dedicated owner's deck, Octopus has a private elevator, a private bar, a hot tub, and an al fresco dining area.

The yacht can sleep up to 26 guests across 13 cabins, as well as 63 crew members in 30 crew cabins.

The superyacht has plenty of room for toys. Octopus comes with two helipads and storage space for seven tenders, two submersibles, and a large SUV.

It comes with a Pagoo , a submarine that can accommodate eight guests and two crew for dives of up to eight hours. 

Octopus is "one of the most well-traveled yachts in the global fleet," according to Burgess.

It's an ideal explorer yacht for those who want to travel to some of the world's most remote locations, according to the yacht brokerage firm. 

The superyacht has been spotted all over the world, from the coast of Turkey ...

... to London, England ...

... to Hong Kong ...

... to southern Argentina.

According to Burgess, the superyacht has also traveled to Antarctica, the Philippines, and traversed the Northwest Passage.

Allen was known for throwing star-studded parties on board Octopus during the Cannes International Film Festival in France.

The exclusive parties had a different elaborate theme each year, from Bollywood to Shakespeare's "A Midsummer Night's Dream," as Raisa Bruner previously reported for Business Insider.

Guests reportedly included "Rolling Stones" frontman Mick Jagger, model Karlie Kloss, and Hollywood A-listers George Lucas, Mischa Barton, John C. Reilly, and Chloe Sevigny.

At the Bollywood-themed party in 2015, dancers performed musical dance numbers for the guests.

On va dire un groupe de #danse #indienne un peu particulier... Ils dansent sur la piscine recouverte pour la soirée... #Yacht #Octopus #PrivateParty #Cannes #Bilionnaire #Lifestyle #India #Bollywood A post shared by Céline Victoria Fotso (@celinefotso) on May 19, 2015 at 4:45am PDT May 19, 2015 at 4:45am PDT

For the "A Midsummer Night's Dream" party the next year, the yacht was transformed into an enchanted garden.

#enchantedgarden party aboard #myoctopus with a basketball hoop behind me and a #yellowsubmarine below and a helicopter in front! Thanks #paulallen for another incredible night aboard #octopus #cannesfilmfestival A post shared by DANIEL BENEDICT (@danielbenedict) on May 17, 2016 at 7:13am PDT May 17, 2016 at 7:13am PDT

Guests were given flower crowns and the vessel was decked out with floral arrangements and illuminated trees.

What a dreamy night thanks #PaulAllen for yet another spectacular evening. #octopus #superyacht #cannesfilmfestival #cannes2016 #festivaldecannes 🍾🍾🍾 thanks to @ivanbittonstylehouse @ivanbitton for styling me 💞💞 A post shared by Sheila Shah (@iamsheilashah) on May 16, 2016 at 8:20pm PDT May 16, 2016 at 8:20pm PDT

While performers were always brought on board, Allen was known to get onstage himself and rock out to some Led Zeppelin.

Paul Allen is really cool! Playing Led Zeppelin himself for guests on Octopus yacht A post shared by Vasily Klyukin (@vasilyklyukin) on May 17, 2016 at 6:56am PDT May 17, 2016 at 6:56am PDT

Allen's $325 million superyacht is among several sizable assets that have been put up for sale by the late billionaire's estate since his death.

The estate is also selling a $110 million plot of land in Beverly Hills that Allen owned for more than 20 years and his MiG-29 fighter jet.

• Main content

The global authority in superyachting

• NEWSLETTERS
• Yachts Home
• The Superyacht Directory
• Yacht Reports
• Brokerage News
• The largest yachts in the world
• The Register
• Yacht Advice
• Yacht Design
• 12m to 24m yachts
• Monaco Yacht Show
• Builder Directory
• Designer Directory
• Interior Design Directory
• Naval Architect Directory
• Yachts for sale home
• Motor yachts
• Sailing yachts
• Explorer yachts
• Classic yachts
• Sale Broker Directory
• Charter Home
• Yachts for Charter
• Charter Destinations
• Charter Broker Directory
• Destinations Home
• Mediterranean
• South Pacific
• Rest of the World
• Boat Life Home
• Owners' Experiences
• Interiors Suppliers
• Owners' Club
• Captains' Club
• BOAT Showcase
• Boat Presents
• Events Home
• World Superyacht Awards
• Superyacht Design Festival
• Design and Innovation Awards
• Young Designer of the Year Award
• Artistry and Craft Awards
• Explorer Yachts Summit
• Ocean Talks
• The Ocean Awards
• BOAT Connect
• Between the bays
• Golf Invitational
• Boat Pro Home
• Pricing Plan
• Superyacht Insight
• Product Features
• Premium Content
• Testimonials
• Global Order Book
• Tenders & Equipment

Iconic yachts: On board Paul Allen's 126m Lürssen superyacht Octopus

When the late Paul Allen’s Octopus was launched in 2003, she stood alone in the yachting world. At 126m length, she was easily the largest explorer yacht ever built, and one of the biggest yachts outright. But in many ways, she heralded a new era of owning very large boats – one where science and research were every bit as important as luxury finish, spas and swimming pools.

Allen himself was said to have commented that his yacht was more of a Land Rover than a Bentley. It’s a view that pays homage to capabilities including an ice-class 1A steel hull, hangar space for two helicopters, a battery of tenders, submersibles and remotely operated vehicles plus a comprehensive dive centre including a hyperbaric chamber. But the boat also has a lavish interior.

Octopus was built by Lürssen in Bremen and Kiel with external styling and design work from Espen Øino . He remembers starting work on her back in 1998, when she was the largest project of his career. “It was a very ambitious brief, because none of the tenders, tools, RVs, subs, helicopters could be outside – they should all be concealed,” remembers Øino. “Particularly the very large tender and the sub. We came up with an interesting solution for launching those through the big transom door, and the travel lift.”

The solution was revolutionary for a private yacht. When the transom door folds up it reveals a world straight out of a Bond movie – a high walkway alongside a 36 metre internal wet dock area overhung with big cranes on gantries. Øino chuckles at the memory: “The stern dock is just an amazing space,” he says.

Allen’s motivation for all this was his love of diving for shipwrecks , which has driven Octopus to many remote corners of the oceans. Her 10-person Pagoo submersible was custom built for the boat – there was no alternative at the time. Subsequently, an autonomous unmanned vehicle was added to the arsenal of equipment, capable of scanning the seabed for features of interest for hours before returning to the mothership. She has six tenders and numerous toys besides.

Among the notable missions undertaken by Octopus was the recovery of the ship’s bell of HMS Hood , sunk by the Bismarck in 2,700m off Greenland, and the discovery of the Japanese warship Musashi 1,000m down in the Sibuyan Sea.

For all that, Octopus is a true superyacht, fitted out in luxurious style by Jonathan Barnett . The interior finish includes an antique bronze door from the 1930s, and is said to set a “harmoniously rugged” tone. There’s solid furniture, lots of wood panelling and serious-looking stainless steel handrails.

She boasts an owner’s deck with a private jacuzzi and dining area plus a dedicated owner’s lift. Other features include an observation lounge, beach club, pool (which converts into a dancefloor), gym and spa. Most notably, Octopus is fitted with a large cinema and a fully-equipped recording studio – something that has hosted artists from Mick Jagger and Bono to Usher and Joss Stone. “Mr Allen’s interest in music was enormous and the acoustic quality was nothing less than a shore-based one,” says Øino. “There were 54 tonnes of AV/IT equipment aboard. A very complex boat in many ways. I think he loved it.”

The boat sleeps 26 guests in 13 cabins, as well as 57 crew. She had an extensive refit at Blohm+Voss in 2019 and was one of the biggest sales of 2021.

More about this yacht

Similar yachts for sale, yachts for charter, more stories, most recent, from our partners, sponsored listings.

BROWSER UPDATE To gain access to the full experience, please upgrade your browser:

Paul Allen’s 414-Foot Yacht Octopus Lists for Over $300 Million

The dual research and recreation vessel, which has located numerous sunken warships, has its own submarine, basketball court and recording studio, newsletter sign-up, daily briefing.

Delivers the most important property news around the world to your inbox each weekday

Octopus, the epic megayacht of the late Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen—which includes its own submarine, remote-controlled deep-sea explorer and on-deck gym—has hit the market for more than $300 million, boat broker Burgess announced this week.

At 414 feet, Octopus stretches longer than a football field and is at once a lavish floating resort with a spa and cinema, and a serious research vessel that provided Allen, who died last October at the age of 65, access to some of the Earth’s most remote places. 

The billionaire philanthropist used the yacht to locate numerous sunken warships, downed aircraft and even lent it to the British Royal Navy to pull a historic bell from the depths of the Denmark Strait in 2012. 

More:   Two Parcels in Uber-Exclusive L.A. Community List for a Total of $58 Million

It’s traversed the frigid waters of the Antarctic and deep dark caves in the Indian Ocean, where the vessel was integral to studying the mysterious coelacanth fish—once thought to have gone extinct with the dinosaurs more than 65 million years ago, according to Allen’s official website.

One of the megayacht’s greatest successes was the 2015 discovery of the sunken Japanese battleship Musashi, one of the largest warships in naval history, which Octopus found off the coast of the Philippines after the wreck eluded search teams for 70 years, Burgess said in a news release.

“Octopus offers an abundance of features and amenities specially tailored for those looking to explore the globe’s most remote and inaccessible destinations,” said the global brokerage, which is officially listing Octopus for €295 million (US$325.56 million). The yachting company, which has offices from Monaco to Phuket, Thailand, markets all of its boats in euros. 

Such features include an eight-person submarine called Pagoo, a remote-operated vehicle capable of diving nearly 2 miles deep, helipads and a garage capable of storing an SUV and two helicopters. 

The yacht can accommodate up to 26 guests across 13 cabins in addition to a crew of 60, according to the agents, who called it “the pinnacle explorer yacht for those seeking a proven ‘go-anywhere, do-anything platform.’”

In his memoir, Allen wrote that he was stunned when Germany-based builder Lürssen delivered Octopus in 2003. 

“It was a third longer than a football field, more than 20 yards wide, seven stories high,” Allen wrote in his 2011 book “Idea Man.” “When I first stood on the bridge, I felt as though I was on a spaceship.”

Beyond exploration, the ship brought together all of Allen’s passions in what he called “one moveable feast.”

A few years after the boat's delivery, the tech titan parked it in the French Riviera to host a star-studded party during the 2005 Cannes Film Festival. Mick Jagger and U2 have performed on board, where he commissioned a soundproofed recording studio—a feat considering the vibrations of the engine, he wrote in his memoir.

From Penta:   Hong Kong Unrest Has High Net Worth Seeking Safer Havens Globally

There are multiple lounges, a library, bar, pool and spa. There’s even a basketball court on the below deck and a glass-bottomed observation lounge. 

Of all the amenities and technical gadgets, Allen wrote that his favorite spot was an intimate deck at the very top of Octopus. 

From there, “I’ve looked out over Venice rooftops," Allen said, "and the factories and naval yards along the Huangpu River in Shanghai.”

Related Stories

Forget the pool or even the living room—‘our closet time is precious’, chelsea clinton’s wedding lit up rhinebeck, new york—a decade later the small town’s housing market is white hot, a big-ticket listing in naples, florida, a designer’s london home and more.

Read Next Story

• Nautic Shows
• America’s Cup
• Classic Yachts
• Motor Yachts
• Sailing Yachts
• Superyachts
• Yachts News
• Destinations
• Yacht Clubs
• Boat Racing
• Meta Yachts

One of the most spectacular – and first – superyacht explorers built, Octopus, is being offered for charter for the first time. One more destination has been added to the final leg of the ship’s international tour, and it will take adventures where few others have been before: Antarctica.

Octopus is a superyacht explorer built by German luxury shipyard Lurssen and delivered to the owner in 2003. That owner was the late Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, and the brief for Octopus called for a Land Rover instead of a Bentley of the sea: an explorer with ice-class capabilities and all the necessary gear, but that did not skimp on luxury.

The briefs of most of today’s superyacht explorers read the same, but these were the early aughts, and Octopus was a trendsetter. With a design by Espen Oeino and elegant interiors by Jonathan Quinn Barnett, Octopus soon became a landmark for this segment of the market and a staple of quality in the industry. The eight-deck 414-foot (126-meter) vessel was sold in the summer of 2021 after nearly two years on the market.

With a reported cost of $226 million, it is now part of Camper & Nicholsons charter fleet. This is the first time that Octopus has been offered for public charter after Allen’s ownership, and that alone is enough to make headlines. However, the addition of a new destination for Octopus is bound to renew interest in it: the explorer is heading to Antarctica. Prices start at $2.2 million per week.

This summer, Octopus sails for Central America, Northern Europe, and the Pacific. In the winter, it will depart for Central and South America, and the Caribbean Sea, with Antarctica added as the new destination on the final leg of the tour. It’s only fitting that it went there, considering its hybrid-diesel environmentally-friendly propulsion, its ice-class capabilities, and the fact that it was designed to go where no other explorer dares to go.

“[Octopus is] the perfect yacht to undertake such a voyage,”  said Jacqui Lockhart, Head of Charter Marketing Europe for Camper & Nicholsons, tells the media outlet.  “[It is] well-equipped to host intrepid charterers off the beaten track with a fully equipped medical suite and dive center on board – complete with hyperbaric chamber – as well as a submarine and two helipads. Octopus was truly built for explorer expeditions!” Indeed, it was. Offering personalizable accommodation for up to 12 guests in 13 suites (imagine that) and 50 crew, it’s packed with luxury amenities, including a private screening room, a pool that converts into a dancefloor at the touch of a button, and various lounge areas. More importantly, though, it’s packed with exploring gear, from two helicopters in the garage, to seven tenders, an autonomous robotic boat (ROV), and a custom Pagoo submarine, life rafts, jetskis, and a wide assortment of water toys.

Powered by two hybrid ABB Industry AG E-Motors, Octopus has a range of 12,500 nautical miles (14,400 miles / 23,150 km) at a cruising speed of 12 knots (13.8 mph / 22.2 kph), but top speed is a more brisk 19 knots (21.8 mph / 35.2 kph). 

• explorer yacht

RELATED ARTICLES

Rossinavi launches m/y bel1, making waves with king benji – the 47m superyacht designed for adventures, tankoa’s 230-ft milano superyacht concept: where italian elegance meets sustainability, rossinavi’s no limits brand achieves record sales: first yacht sold just two weeks after announcement, the 24th edition of benetti yachtmaster explores lifestyle and the central role of the captain.

Subscribe to our newsletter

To be updated with all the latest news, offers and special announcements.

LATEST ARTICLES

Riccardo tosetto fourth in the global solo challenge, palmavela reaches 150 entries, unleashing potential: emirates team new zealand’s two-boat training session, nyyc american magic’s intensive training session amidst barcelona’s spring blues, editor picks, canadian beau lake introduces the tahoe ’14 and lugano ’14 electric runabouts, underwater adventure and exploration with deepflight’s super falcon 3s, driving performance on land and on water: 41′ amg carbon edition, popular posts, young designer of the year 2022: ioana valentina corcodel reveals 65m ophelia concept, mirabaud sailing video of the century: celebrating 2 decades of passion, superyacht the flying fox seized in the dominican republic, popular category.

• Regatta 811
• America's Cup 386
• Motor Yachts 263
• Boating 215
• Superyachts 183
• Sailing 178
• Yachts News 174
• Sailing Yachts 162

Launched back in the year 2003, the Octopus yacht was built by famous shipyard Lurssen out of Germany. Lurssen has been behind numerous other superyachts such as Kismet and Dilbar and many more. The exterior design was handled by Espen Øino Naval Architects while the interior was handled by American designer Jonathan Quinn Barnett.

Who Owns the Octopus Yacht?

The Octopus yacht was owned by Paul Allen, the co-founder of Microsoft. In addition to being a private pleasure yacht for Allen, the Octopus has served a variety of purposes over the years thanks to him loaning it out. It has served as an exploration vessel, been used for scientific research and has even seen use as a rescue vessel.

Allen died in 2018 and at that time the yacht underwent a refit at Blohm + Voss. In 2019 it was put on sale for a price of €295 million. The price was dropped by about 60 million and in 2021 it was picked up by an anonymous buyer. However, the anonymity didn’t last long and it was later revealed that Swedish billionaire Roger Samuelsson.

How Big is the Octopus Motor Yacht?

The Octopus more than qualifies as a superyacht coming in at an incredible 126.2 meters or 414 feet. While the largest yachts in the world are over 500 feet, the Octopus is clearly massive and could rightly be labeled a megayacht and one of the world’s largest yachts as well.

Aside from the incredible length of the vessel, it features a beam just shy of 69 feet across. The gross tonnage is 9,932.

How Much Did the Yacht Octopus Cost?

Paul Allen purchased the Octopus back in 2003. At that time the vessel cost him $200 million. Adjusted for inflation, that would work out to about $327 million by today, clearly making this one of the more expensive yachts in the world. That said, it still doesn’t meet the bar for one of the most expensive yachts ever by quite a bit.

Can You Charter the Octopus Yacht?

The Octopus is available for charter through the yacht firm Camper and Nicholsons but it’s definitely not available for most budgets. We’ve covered other yachts before that are owned by billionaires and are available for charter at some steep prices that often range around $1.2 million per week. The Octopus goes to the next level. 

You can charter the Octopus for about $2.2 million per week and that doesn’t include expenses. So you’ll be paying for things like food and fuel separately. Suffice it to say that this is not a charter for everyone but the option is there. 

Is the Octopus Yacht for Sale?

After its initial purchase in 2003 the Octopus was not available for sale until 2019 after owner Paul Allen passed away. There are currently some websites that claim the Octopus is for sale now and you can make an offer but the reliability of those sites is unknown and they do list the previous sale price from 2019 so they may not be current.

How Fast is the Octopus Yacht and What Engines Does it Use?

The Octopus has a cruising speed listed at 12.5 knots and a top speed listed at 19 knots. This is provided thanks to 8 MTU diesel engines that can generate a total of 19,200 hp. The yacht has an impressive range of up to 12,500 nautical miles at cruising speed thanks to her 1,034,000 liter fuel tanks 

What’s the Octopus Yacht Interior Like?

The Octopus covers eight decks and has room on board for a total of 26 guests and 63 crew. The guests can find accommodations in a full-beam master suite, two VIP suites, seven double rooms and three twins, one with an additional single bed.

The master suite is on a dedicated owner’s deck and features a king size bed, his and hers en suite bathrooms and a private observation deck that includes an al fresco dining area. There’s also a private bar and Jacuzzi There is also an owner exclusive private elevator for use. 

For years the details of the interior were a closely guarded secret while Paul Allen was still the owner. In fact, designer Espen Oeino said that this was the first yacht that ever required him to sign an NDA to keep its design secret. Since then he’s signed many more, but the Octopus was where it started. However, since Allen’s passing and the sale of the yacht, the transition to a vessel available for charter has allowed us to learn a lot more about the Octopus and its amenities and entertainment facilities.

Features and Amenities

The Octopus is an ice-class exploration yacht so it can go where many other luxury yachts cannot. It has two helipads as well as garages to house two helicopters. In addition, guests can find the following on board.

• There’s a large swimming pool to the aft of the yacht on the main deck. It features numerous loungers and its own cocktail bar. There’s also a retractable glass floor that covers the pool when not in use.
• A dance floor for parties
• A movie theater
• A well equipped gym for working out
• A relaxation spa that includes a sauna
• A large indoor/outdoor beach club area
• A large deck Jacuzzi
• A glass bottomed observation lounge
• A well-stocked library for those evenings when you want to curl up with a good book

For those who want to have some more intense fun out on the water, the Octopus has a number of toys that can be used.

• 59’5” Delta Powerboats 54′ Tender
• 30’8” Vikal Custom Limo Tender with a pair of 260 HP engines
• A 10-person submarine named Pagoo which we’ll talk more about shortly
• A dive center with a hyperbaric chamber and scuba gear
• A large swim platform
• A diving platform
• 4 separate 2 seat Yamaha FX140 Waverunners
• 2 separate 2 Person Hobie Pursuit Kayaks
• An Epic V5 Kayak
• 3 Windsurfers for a range of skill levels
• A stand up Yamaha jet ski
• 3 surfboards
• Kite surfers 
• Water skis and a variety of towable toys 
• Snorkeling gear
• Fishing gear

Octopus Rescue Work

The Octopus also features a not entirely typical on board submarine and also a very rare ROV or remote operated vehicle which is essentially a remote control sub. These had been used a number of times on rescue operations when Paul Allen owned the vessel.

The sub and ROV were used to help find a pilot and two officers who vanished off the coast of Palau, and even aided the Royal Navy in finding the bell from the HMS Hood which sank off of Denmark in WWII.

The Octopus has also aided in scientific research, most notably when researchers were studying coelacanth, a species of prehistoric fish thought to have been extinct for millions of years. 

What is the Octopus Yacht Deck Plan?

You can see the full deck plans here. The Octopus was designed to feature some things you would never expect to find on a yacht. For instance, it had a fully equipped recording studio where the band U2 did some recording. The studio also hosted Usher, Mick Jagger and Joss Stone. However, the studio has since been replaced with a bar and lounge area.

In addition to the studio the yacht was designed with a storm cabin to help minimize the effects of bad weather and a full medical center in case of emergencies. Many of these features no longer exist since the retrofit after Paul Allen’s death.

One extremely unique feature is the central clock. Braided stainless-steel shrouds from a sailing vessel were strung on either side of the grand staircase from lower to upper deck. The designer enlisted the aid of a 102-year-old German clock making company to help bring the idea to life. It also uses digital audio software so that on a regular basis the strings can play snippets from literally any song to indicate the passage of time.

The Bottom Line

The Octopus yacht was once owned by Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen until his death in 2018. Afterwards, some of the yacht was redesigned and it was sold for close to $300 million to Swedish billionaire Roger Samuelsson. 

The Octopus is a massive exploration yacht measuring 414 feet making it large but nowhere near as big as something like the massive Azzam . It has been used for scientific research and rescue missions in the past and is now available for charter though at a steep price.

While it has many of the expected amenities of luxury yachts it also features some more exotic fare like the minisub with room for 8 passengers and two crew, as well as a stunning array of toys and other features.

My grandfather first took me fishing when I was too young to actually hold up a rod on my own. As an avid camper, hiker, and nature enthusiast I'm always looking for a new adventure.

Categories : Yachts

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

More in Yachts

Lonian Yacht: An Insider's Guide

A Closer Look at the Madsummer Yacht

Your Insider’s Look at Steve Jobs’ Yacht Venus

Your Insider’s Guide to the Aviva Yacht

The People’s Poncho Review and Ratings 

Oru Lake Kayak Review

What Is A Gunwale?

131 of the Best Hawaiian Boat Names

167 Patriotic Boat Names

About boatsafe.

Established in 1998, BoatSafe is your independent guide into the world of boating, fishing, and watersports. We provide expert insights and detailed guides to help you find products tailored to your needs and budget.

Contact Boatsafe

• Address: 4021 West Walnut Street. Rogers, AR 72756
• Phone:  (479)339-4795
• Email: [email protected]

Site Navigation

• How We Test
• Corrections Policy
• Privacy Policy
• Terms & Conditions
• Editorial Policy
• Affiliate Disclosure

Our Reviews

All content is © Copyright 2024. All rights reserved.

• Automobiles
• Watches & Jewelry
• Art & Collectibles
• Wine & Spirits
• Destinations
• Resorts & Spas
• Jetset’s Top 5
• Real Estate
• Cover Features
• Entertainment

• Truth in Transformation: Kamalaya Koh Samui Wellness Sanctuary
• Eclipse in Style: NYC’s Finest Condos with View Terraces
• US Open Set to Return to Newly Renovated Pinehurst
• The Sound of Success: Starkey CEO Brandon Sawalich Talks Hearing Loss

Legend Status: Paul Allen’s Octopus Superyacht is for Sale for $325M

Paul Allen was a business magnate and philanthropist best known as the cofounder of Microsoft alongside his childhood friend, Bill Gates. When he died in 2018 he was ranked by Forbes as the 44th wealthiest person in the world. After his death many of his iconic and extravagant belongings went up for sale, such as the world’s largest aircraft built by his aerospace company Stratolaunch to put satellites into orbit, his two-seat UB model Mig-29 jet fighter, and his beloved Octopus , a superyacht of enormous proportion.

Octopus in Numbers

Built in 2003 by the German-based shipyard Lurssen, with its 414 feet, Octopus was the largest yacht in the world. In 2021, it doesn’t make it in the top ten, but it’s still considered one of the heaviest with its almost 10,000 tons. Octopus can hold 26 guests accommodating them in 13 cabins (suites) and 63 crew members in 30 cabins. Eight diesel generators power two electric motors providing six megawatts allowing Octopus to cruise 12,500 miles at 12.5 knots on a single tank of gas.

More Than A Yacht

Fraser and Burgess, the two top yacht broker companies in charge of the sale, listed it for $325,000,000 which seems a pretty high price considering it was built in 2003, but Octopus is one of a kind. Its timeless exterior makes it more appealing than many of the new exotic yachts, and it’s a pleasure yacht and an expedition boat as well.

Burgess confirms that Octopus handled many rescue missions and research trips, for example in Antarctica and the Arctic, thanks to the Ice-class 1A, and in the Philippines where a WWII battleship’s wreck was discovered.

Where Octopus shines like no other is in the interior design and additional toys.

Interior Design

Seattle-based designer Jonathan Quinn Barnett of JQB Design realized Allen’s dream to put together “all my passions in one moveable feast.” The yacht is equipped with a large pool that can be turned into a dance floor due to a retractable glass system. Many celebrities and musicians like Mike Jagger, Bono, and Johnny Cash have recorded their music in the yacht studio. While a gym, a movie theater, a bar, a library, a glass-bottomed underwater observation lounge, and a dive center with a hyperbaric chamber are available to guests, an entire deck is reserved to the owner featuring a lounge with a full bar, dining area, jacuzzi, and a private elevator.

Additional Toys

On the rear of the boat there is a large floodable well-deck with a yellow submarine called Pagoo, which can hold ten people for an eight-hour adventure diving as deep as 1,000 feet. Additionally, the superyacht houses a remotely operated vehicle that can dive thousands of feet deep, the ship’s primary boat also known as Man Of War, a landing pad, a huge helicopter hanger with two helicopters, and a basketball court.

In his 2011 biography Allen referred to Octopus as “less a Bentley than a Range Rover,” adding that it “has realized every mission I had in mind for her.” The next Octopus owner will not only buy the superyacht but also the iconic allure and history that comes with “her.”

View the renowned world-class cruiser in this video .

Billionaire’s yacht hunts for lost plane off Palau

Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen's mega-yacht is helping in a search for a missing plane in the Pacific.

Share story

Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen’s mega-yacht – and perhaps even the billionaire himself – are part of a flotilla scouring the Pacific for an American pilot and two Palau police officers whose plane disappeared over the weekend.

The yacht, the Octopus, sailed into a drama over illegal fishing that turned deadly even before the plane vanished off the remote island nation.

A crew member of a Chinese vessel that allegedly poached giant clams from a marine reserve was shot and killed by Palau authorities in a confrontation Saturday. The plane vanished Sunday as it pursued a larger Chinese ship involved in the fishing operation – a vessel that apparently was set on fire by crew members after officers pursued it.

Allen’s spokesman David Postman said Allen had been in the region to support his friend, film director James Cameron, who recently explored the world’s deepest point, the Mariana Trench northeast of Palau.

Most Read Local Stories

• Trump's immigration plan: Is WA ready for mass sweeps with state troops?
• Expect Seattle-area I-5 backups this weekend, but there are ways around them
• Killing of West Seattle homeless man a window into tension in neighbors WATCH
• Seattle’s 8 p.m. sunsets are coming soon
• 'You are a communist:' No, I'm not, but the data knows my real identity

Allen’s 126-meter (414-foot) yacht has two helicopters, a submarine and a remote-controlled underwater vessel, which took pictures of nautiluses that Allen posted Sunday on Twitter.

That same day, the Octopus picked up radio transmissions from the plane in distress and was among several vessels that alerted the U.S. Coast Guard of its plight, Coast Guard spokesman Lt. j.g. Richard Russell said.

“He’s being very modest about his participation,” Russell said. “I’m not sure if he’s still on board. But for the last few days, he’s been lending us both his helicopters in aid of the search. He’s been a huge help.”

Postman said the Octopus has not been back to port since Allen tweeted the photos but added that he never discloses Allen’s whereabouts because of security concerns.

The events in Palau, about 500 miles east of the Philippines, unfolded after six Chinese fishermen were seen diving for giant clams over several days in the Ngeruangel Atoll marine reserve, said to Norbert Yano, Palau’s director of public safety.

Yano said state officials tried to intercept the boat Saturday but the fishermen made a dangerous turn around the pursuing vessel. He said officials firing at the fleeing vessel’s engines accidentally shot a fisherman in the thigh.

The wounded man died. Yano said he was taken on a 25-minute journey to an island where a nurse lived but she couldn’t stop the bleeding in time.

The other five fishermen were arrested and told authorities there was a mother ship nearby, Yano said. A patrol boat located the larger ship Saturday afternoon and began a chase that would last all night.

At 5:30 a.m. Sunday, authorities noticed the mother ship was engulfed in flames, Yano said. He said he believes crew members deliberately set it on fire and abandoned ship to a small ancillary vessel before they were caught.

Authorities enlisted Palau tourist pilot Frank Ohlinger, an American citizen, to fly two Palau officers to the scene, Yano said. Authorities wanted to get photos and other evidence from the burning ship before it sank.

Russell, the Coast Guard spokesman, said Ohlinger later radioed the airport to say his GPS navigational device had failed. The airport turned its lights on full brightness and shot off flares to try and help guide the plane, he said.

In his final transmission, at 8:15 p.m., Ohlinger said he was within minutes of running out of fuel.

“He may have become disoriented,” Russell said. “He was trying a number of different maneuvers and bearings to try and get closer to where he believed the airport was.”

Russell said authorities have yet to find any trace of the plane despite an extensive search over 6,500 square nautical miles that has involved several Coast Guard vessels as well as official Palauan vessels and private craft. The water is relatively warm in the area, which increases the odds of survival.

The missing Palau officers are Willy Towai and Earl Decherong.

“I ask for your prayers for the captain and these two fine young police officers,” Palau President Johnson Toribiong wrote on his Facebook page.

Court records show about 25 Chinese fishermen face a number of charges, including illegal fishing. Wednesday was a holiday in China, and a call to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs went unanswered.

Nick Perry reported from Wellington, New Zealand. Jennifer Kelleher reported from Honolulu.

• US +1 772 770 1995
• EU +34 937 034 470
• [email protected]

Team Triton

Sales & Administration

A dedicated team able to help answer your pre-sales, promotional, press and service enquiries.

With many of the world’s top submersible operators on the team, you can be assured that you are in safe hands. Whether it be support with an expedition, or advice on best-practice and procedure, Triton has the expertise to help.

Engineering

A multi-discipline engineering team committed to producing the world’s finest submersibles.

Andrey Likhanskiy - Brief Biography

Andrey was born in Moscow, Russia, and studied mechanical engineering in Moscow. In 1998 he became interested in diving and received the status of Diving Instructor. He worked as a diving instructor in Malta and later as a commercial diver.

In 2016 he started working at Triton as a submarine technician. and in 2019 he became a Submarine Field Technician. His current role involves working on mechanical assembly as well as air, oxygen and hydraulics systems.

Oriol Povill - Brief Biography

Oriol is a design engineer based at Triton Submarines EMEA in Barcelona. In 2018 he joined the company as an intern and in that year he designed and developed an underwater robotic arm for submersibles. The following year he became a full-time engineer, assisting with the design, development and assembly of the first Deep View 24 submersible made in Barcelona. Currently, he is in charge of design, 3D modelling and mechanical drawings at Triton Submarines EMEA.

Borja Hidalgo - Brief Biography

Borja studied Aerospace Engineering in Madrid. After completing a MSc in Beijing, China, he specialized in space thermal design and analysis working for 5 years in different satellite projects for top European space companies like Airbus and OHB. He developed his entrepreneur facet by setting up a trading business related to consumer electronics and technical service. After selling his business in 2018, he joined Triton Submarines EMEA as Production Manager, becoming part of the team that built the DeepView 24 submersible, as well as managing the production and quality of pressure hull components for other Triton submersibles.

Joan Bigas - Brief Biography

Born and raised in Barcelona, the technological and engineering world has always interested Joan. He studied aeronautical engineering and started working in an AIRBUS subsidiary where he developed the skillset to manage purchasing which he has later on developed at Triton Submarines. His technological background and ambition has helped him manage the procurement for the first submersible built in the Barcelona facility as well as other projects that are currently under development.

Ari Harsan - Brief Biography

Originally from Cluj-Napoca, Romania, Ariadna has been living in the United States since 1999 and relocated to Florida over 10 years ago. She has 5 years of experience in shipping and receiving followed by 10 years of experience at Sikorsky Aircraft / Lockheed Martin as an electrical inspector on Black Hawk helicopters.

Ariadna joined the Triton team in the beginning of 2020 as the Shipping and Receiving Supervisor

Chris Devoe - Brief Biography

Originally from Connecticut, Chris relocated to Florida in 2008. He has 10 years of experience in construction followed by 10 years at Lockheed Martin as a senior electrical installer, which included building Black Hawk helicopters. In 2019 Chris joined our shop assembly team at Triton’s headquarters in Sebastian, FL.

Steve Chappell - Brief Biography

For nearly 30 years Steve has pursued ocean exploration in numerous capacities, including working as a senior submersible pilot with multiple endorsements from Atlantis, Voyager and Perry Deep Subs. Additionally, Steve is a vessel captain, divemaster, marine commentator and holds a USCG 100 ton license and FCC marine operator permit. Steve’s extensive background in submersible operations and adventure has been a tremendous asset to Triton since he joined the team in 2018.

Coleton Wells - Brief Biography

Before joining the assembly team at Triton’s Sebastian headquarters in 2018, Coleton worked for two years as a pinsetter mechanic on a Brunswick A2 machine. He has a zest for adventure and once backpacked through seven countries in Europe over a period of 60 days.

Craig Barnett - Brief Biography

Working in yachting media for the last two decades, Craig’s role in journalism and editorial content generation has led him from his native Wales, through extended stints living in the Middle East and Florida, to joining the Triton team in Barcelona. Just one dive in a Triton submersible off the Bahamas was all it took to convince him that the team and product are where his passion and professional future lies.

From personal watercraft through to megayachts and as the founding Editor in Chief of INVICTUS Magazine, Craig has acquired a wide-aspect view of the leisure marine sector, from concept and design, through construction, operation, the yachting lifestyle and interaction with yacht owners, equipping him to contribute to the development of Triton’s communication, global visibility and the generation of sales.

Rhonda Darling - Brief Biography

Stirling jones - brief biography, r. monroe roos - brief biography.

Although born in Florida, Monroe’s family is from Aruba where he was raised. He has always been connected to the ocean and was a competitive swimmer in his youth. His career history includes working as the Captain of whale watching tour boats in Alaska and completing submarines refits. Monroe is also another Triton employee with an extensive background in operating submersibles. He began as a Sub Technician with Atlantis Submarines in 2005, became a submarine pilot for them in 2009 and accumulated over 1,500 dives working in Hawaii and Guam.

Jon Pugh - Brief Biography

Jon joined Triton part time in January 2020 while pursuing his Ocean Engineering Degree at Florida Institute of Technology. He began working at Triton full time as a part of the engineering team in May of 2020 having completed his bachelor’s degree in Ocean Engineering. He was then sent to be a part of the Marianas dives in June on Pressure Drop. Since then he has been a part of the engineering team on Triton’s 3300/6 submersible build.

David Stott - Brief Biography

Like quite a few Triton employees, Dave is originally from the UK but moved to the Treasure Coast in 1995. His background includes working at Burmley Engineering Products in the UK, working as an Engineering Manager for Vero Machine Industries for 13 years and working as a Production Manager for Dettmers Industries – altogether more than 36 years in manufacturing and engineering. That experience and skill is now part of the submersible assembly team here at Triton.

L Bruce Jones - Brief Biography

L. Bruce Jones is a Co-founder of Triton Submarines and acted as its CEO from the company’s inception in 2007 until August, 2022. He initially became a consultant for the tourist submarine industry in 1987 and formed U.S. Submarines, Inc. in 1993. U.S. Submarines developed diesel electric luxury submarine designs as well as the DeepView acrylic tourist submarine. That company designed and built the first two Tritons, both 1000/2 models. Bruce developed the Poseidon Undersea Resort concept as well as plans for a series of undersea residences and related structures. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Geology from Trinity University, attended the MBA program at St. Mary’s College and did interdisciplinary Doctoral work in Mineralogy, Solid State Physics and Analytical Chemistry. He is an avid pilot, yachtsman and former U.S. Collegiate National Skydiving Champion.

Ken Aldrich - Brief Biography

Originally from Bethpage, New York, Ken has been living on the Treasure Coast for more than 20 years working in a variety of technological and energy sector corporations as a buyer and purchasing manager, including the Grumman Corporation (now Northrop/Grumman), Voight Aircraft and Power Systems Manufacturing, manufacturing gas turbines. At Triton, Ken performs the critical function of ensuring that the equipment needed for each sub assembly is ordered and present when needed.

Patrick Lahey - Brief Biography

Patrick Lahey is the co-founder and President of Triton Submarines based in Sebastian, Florida. He recently became the second Canadian to reach the bottom of the Mariana Trench and the first person to dive the Challenger Deep twice while accompanied by another explorer. Patrick also successfully completed the world’s deepest ever salvage operation at 10,927 meters during one of his historic dives in the Mariana Trench.

Born in Ottawa, Canada, Patrick began diving in 1975 and started working as a professional diver in 1982. He has nearly 40 years of commercial underwater experience earned from his involvement in a diverse range of projects around the world. During his career, Patrick has participated in the design, engineering, manufacture and testing of numerous underwater vehicles and diving systems including over 60 manned submersibles. He is a fully qualified air, mixed-gas and bell-saturation diver with a background in electronics and instrumentation.

In his role at Triton Submarines, Patrick has overseen the development of the company’s entire range of submersibles, including the Triton 36,000/2 a.k.a. ‘Limiting Factor’, which was used during the groundbreaking Five Deeps Expedition. The Triton 36,000/2 is the first and only full ocean depth capable manned submersible to be fully accredited by an internationally recognized third party classification society (DNV-GL) with an ‘unlimited diving depth’ noted on the certificate.

Kelvin Magee - Brief Biography

Originally from Canada, Kelvin has spent much of his professional career traveling the world in a wide variety of dive projects from the surface to 13,000 feet. Kelvin’s dive world spans from Scuba to Mixed Gas, to Technical Diving, ROV operation and submersibles.

Ron Stamm - Brief Biography

Following 10 years’ experience as an FCC licensed Avionic and Marine Electronic Technician, Ron earned an BSEE from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. While working as electrical engineer for such companies as Harris – RF Communications, and Panasonic (MECA), Ron completed an MBA from Rutgers University specializing in New Product Development and Strategic Marketing. Since then Ron has spent 12 years in both project and engineering management at Nokia and Verizon Wireless, before joining Triton Submarines in 2014. Although initially in an engineering position, Ron’s role has expanded to include both Project and Contracts Management and now specializes in product quality, process and business management. Ron is an avid SCUBA diver, boater and fisherman.

Jarl Stromer - Brief Biography

Cory young - brief biography.

Before coming to Triton, Cory was a professional  artist who attended CalArts and in the late 80’s was instrumental in bringing South Florida’s commercial art and publishing industry into the digital age. His versatile talents are now appreciated at Triton in a multitude of fields.

Mike Haley - Brief Biography

Michael Haley has a wide variety of experience in several marine related fields. He has a Ph.D. in Biology from the University of California and spent two decades teaching and conducting university research in marine biology, including seven years as the Director of the Discovery Bay Marine Laboratory in Jamaica.

More recently, he has installed ceramic based artificial reefs at several locations in the Caribbean and the Arabian Gulf and he has also worked as an environmental consultant in the marine salvage industry. He is experienced in the use of subs for marine research, starting back in the 1980s with Perry-class submersibles and heads Triton’s focus on developing options packages to facilitate biological, chemical, geological and archaeological research.

Mike Sullivan - Brief Biography

Mike graduated from Indian River College locally with a degree in electronic engineering. He spent years at the Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute (HBOI) as the lead electronic technician of the Johnson Sea Link Manned Submersible. His duties, working with his brother Jim (another Triton employee) included installation and maintenance of all electronic equipment and sub crew members making hundreds of dives during scientific expeditions. Mike also worked as the electronic technician on the Aquarius 2000 Underwater Saturation Habitat and Laboratory and brings an enormous amount of experience to the table here at Triton.

Joshua Harrison - Brief Biography

Joshua works at Triton as part of the shop assembly team. As an experienced commercial driver, he is a critical part of the quality control and certification team, delivering assembled subs to the facility in Texas for external pressure testing and facilitating proper certification procedures. He has also traveled with Triton to complete build procedures and certification to locations that include the Bahamas, Tahiti, Australia, and Malta.

Colin Quigley - Brief Biography

Colin has been with Triton since 2010 and is part of the shop assembly team at the Sebastian site. He has more than 43 years experience as a diver and is also part of the in-house group involved in the initial sea trials of new Triton subs. He has traveled to Japan twice and the Bahamas on numerous occasions, working as a swimmer in surface based operations during critical launch and recovery procedures.

Dave 'Sparky' Ahlgreen - Brief Biography

Dave is part of the shop assembly team at Triton.  His background includes over 35 years experience working as a commercial electrician and his role at Triton involves testing and installing many of the critical electrical components including batteries, battery management systems and control systems. Working with Triton, he has traveled to Seattle, LA, Japan, Guam, Argentina and Malta, completing final assembly work, refit work and helping prepare for annual surveys.

Kelvin McGee - Brief Biography

Born in New Zealand, Kelvin’s family moved to Vancouver Island in Canada when he was young. He has an extensive maritime background, having been a commercial diver for more than 25 years and also piloting Remotely Operated Underwater Vehicles (ROVs) all over the world. He has been involved in an extensive range of dive projects from the surface to 13,000 ft and also spent more than 10 years working with Deep Rover submersibles. Kelvin has worked at Triton since 2011 and is a critical part of the operations team, piloting subs and training clients who purchase Triton subs. Additionally, he is involved in assembling the subs themselves in Sebastian.

Tiffany Lantier - Brief Biography

Tiffany is born and raised in Vero Beach and has over 17 years of experience in accounting and office management. She oversees the financial management and documentation of Triton’s accounts and plays a critical role in overseeing the purchasing of vendor supplied components that are incorporated into every submersible build.

Marvin Poole - Brief Biography

Marvin is part of the shop assembly team and has experience few can match. He served in the US Army and was then recruited by NASA in its fledgeling stages to work on the lunar lander. Afterwards he spent 10 years working on underwater life support systems for the Brazilian oil and gas company Petrobras, diving to the bottom of oil platforms. He then went to work for Atlantis Submarines, the tourist submarine company, as a maintenance supervisor in Grand Cayman. Next he oversaw new submarine construction in Vancouver, including the construction of a 64 passenger sub, the largest tourist submarine to date. Since 2007, Marvin has worked for Triton and has been an integral part of every Triton sub model constructed since the formation of the company.

John Ramsay - Brief Biography

John is responsible for the design and creation of every new Triton. He has been a lead engineer on more than 20 new-build submersibles, including both military and commercial projects and vehicles built to ABS, Lloyds and DNV-GL classification.

With over 18 years of experience of all aspects of submersible design, John’s innovative and groundbreaking, yet deceptively simple concepts and solutions, have pushed the boundaries of what submersibles are capable of, in many cases rewriting the rulebooks for PVHOs and submersibles in general.

A career highlight was undoubtedly becoming the ‘deepest diving British person in history’ in May 2019, when he got the opportunity to dive to 10,907 meters depth in the Mariana Trench inside the Triton 36000/2 FOD submersible that he designed for the Five Deeps Expedition, piloted by one of his closest friends, Triton’s president Patrick Lahey – the ‘deepest diving Canadian in history’.

Paul Moorhouse - Brief Biography

Paul began developing submarines in 1986, following a career in aero engines, nuclear submarines, and kit car production. Today, Paul has been involved in the design, engineering, and construction of over 20 subs including 5 diesel-electric subs and the first Triton 1000/2’s and 3300/3. At MSubs, Paul created several advanced military subs for US Special Forces. At James Fischer Defense, Paul designed rescue subs for the Swedish and Indian Navies as well as a swimmer delivery vehicle for the UK Ministry of Defense.

In 2018, Paul re-joined Triton to design and engineer the entirely unique and modular Deepview 24, which was the first contemporary tourist sub created in more than 30 years. Today, as our full-time Principal Designer and Lead Mechanical Engineer, Paul is responsible for developing the next generation of innovative and ground-breaking new products at Triton.

Paul is a practical, hands-on engineer who understands the importance of working collaboratively with the engineering team he leads and those responsible for building the designs they create together. Paul has a natural and intuitive engineering sensibility, which ensures his designs are practical, reliable, and simple but also inspired. In his spare time, Paul enjoys building mini subs to test new ideas and concepts and challenge him to develop solutions for them.

Tom Blades - Brief Biography

Born in the UK, Tom began his career working for the UK Submarine Rescue Team and has had more than a decade of experience developing and integrating electrical systems for submersible vessels for both the military and leisure markets.

In his role at Triton Submarines, Tom has been involved in testing and commissioning the entire range of submersibles, including the record-breaking Triton 36000/2 , a.k.a. ‘Limiting Factor’ – the first two-manned submersible capable of repeatedly diving to the deepest depths of the world’s oceans.

Tom was responsible for running surface tracking and communications for the 2018-19 round-the-world Five Deeps Expedition, including the historic dives to Challenger Deep. A highlight of 2020 for Tom was testing a new navigation system on the seabed of the Mediterranean Sea during a dive to 1700 m.

Hector Salvador - Brief Biography

After years supporting space education, microgravity research and international cooperation at LEEM, the European Space Agency or the International Astronautical Federation, he decided to shift the focus of his passion for exploration from outer to inner space, becoming a dive instructor and a submersible pilot in 2012.

Hector has operated 10 submersibles from different manufacturers and has trained more than 35 new pilots and surface officers from various nationalities. He was the Manager of Field Operations of U-Boat Worx B.V. until 2015 and joined Triton Submarines in 2016.

Paris Birch - Brief Biography

Originally from San Francisco California, Paris is now living permanently in Sebastian, Florida.

Paris holds a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Computer Arts from Platt College in San Diego, CA. Both her parents worked for the international airlines which allowed her to travel extensively from a young age. She has over ten years’ experience working in the Yacht and Charter industry in different capacities. As First & Second Mate, Paris has sailed US West & East Coast, Bahamas, Caribbean & South America. As Operations Manager she was responsible for administration, crew and event planning, scheduling of charters and supervision of deck crew.

Now at Triton, Paris handles the high volume of shipping and receiving needs at our headquarters in Sebastian, FL.

Brian Cornell - Brief Biography

From Chicago previously, Brian was a general contractor by trade, having established a remodeling/installation company that serviced the Chicagoland area for 15 years.  Then moving to Florida in 2003 to build over 100 homes and also focus on kitchen and bath remodels until 2012.

Since that time, Brian has focused on using his IT skills to set up and scale up IT networks and small business systems, helping growing companies like Triton to put digital organization and processes to work in order to maximize efficiency and collaboration.

Leisure Submersibles

• Triton for Leisure
• TRITON 660/2 SPII
• TRITON 1650/3 LP

Commercial Submersibles

• Triton for Cruise & Tour Operators
• TRITON 660/9 AVA
• TRITON DeepView
• TRITON 1650/7 Configurable

Professional Submersibles

• Triton for Professionals
• TRITON 3300/3 MKII
• TRITON 3300/1 MD
• TRITON 4000/2 Abyssal Explorer

Ultra-Deep Submersibles

• Triton for Hadal Explorers
• TRITON 7500/3
• TRITON 36000/2 Full Ocean Depth
• Bespoke Projects
• Refits & Upgrades
• Vessel Integration
• Equipment Integration
• Personnel Services
• Expedition Support
• Spares & Consumables
• Maintenance & Technical
• Notable Dives
• Making History
• Made with Triton

News & Media

• Latest News
• Favorite Image Gallery

Contact Triton

• Triton Submarines LLC
• 10055 102 nd Terrace
• Florida 32958
• +1 772 770 1995

Privacy & Cookies

® TRITON and the Triton Logo are the registered trademarks of Triton Submarines LLC. © Triton Submarines LLC. All rights reserved. 10055 102 nd Terrace, Sebastian, Florida 32958, USA.

• International edition
• Australia edition
• Europe edition

US says Russia rejected deal to free detained Americans

State department says Moscow turned down ‘substantial’ proposal to secure release of Evan Gershkovich and Paul Whelan

Russia rejected a new proposal to free two detained Americans, the Wall Street Journal correspondent Evan Gershkovich and former marine Paul Whelan, the US government has said.

A state department spokesman, Matthew Miller, told reporters that the US made several proposals for a deal to return the two men, “including a substantial one in recent weeks”.

“That proposal was rejected by Russia,” he said.

Miller said that the US secretary of state, Antony Blinken, and President Joe Biden would keep trying to find a way to free the pair, considered “wrongfully detained” by the state department.

“They never should have been arrested in the first place. They should both be released immediately,” Miller said.

“There is no higher priority for the secretary of state. There is no higher priority for the president.”

He declined to give further details on the proposal, including whether Russians could be released.

The United States, despite a sharp deterioration of ties since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, has arranged two prisoner swaps – including one that freed the basketball star Brittney Griner , who was detained over traces of cannabis.

Gershkovich, 32, was arrested during a reporting trip at the end of March in the Urals city of Yekaterinburg, becoming the first western reporter to be jailed on spying charges in Russia since the Soviet era.

The reporter, his newspaper and the US government all strongly deny he was involved in espionage.

A Moscow court last week extended his detention until January.

Whelan worked in security for a US vehicle parts company when he was arrested in Moscow in 2018 and has always asserted that the evidence against him was falsified.

His family said last week that Whelan was assaulted in prison by a fellow inmate, potentially because of his nationality.

• US foreign policy

Most viewed

• Election 2024
• Entertainment
• Newsletters
• Photography
• Personal Finance
• AP Investigations
• AP Buyline Personal Finance
• Press Releases
• Israel-Hamas War
• Russia-Ukraine War
• Global elections
• Asia Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East
• Election Results
• Delegate Tracker
• AP & Elections
• March Madness
• AP Top 25 Poll
• Movie reviews
• Book reviews
• Personal finance
• Financial Markets
• Business Highlights
• Financial wellness
• Artificial Intelligence
• Social Media

US made offer to bring home jailed Americans Paul Whelan and Evan Gershkovich. Russia rejected it

FILE - Paul Whelan, a former U.S. Marine who was arrested for alleged spying, listens to the verdict in a courtroom at the Moscow City Court in Moscow, Russia, June 15, 2020. The Biden administration says its made a new and significant offer aimed at securing the release of American detainees Paul Whelan and Evan Gershkovich, but Russia has rejected the offer. (Sofia Sandurskaya, Moscow News Agency photo via AP, File)

FIle - Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich stands in a glass cage in a courtroom at the Moscow City Court, in Moscow, Russia, Oct. 10, 2023. The Biden administration says its made a new and significant offer aimed at securing the release of American detainees Paul Whelan and Evan Gershkovich, but Russia has rejected the offer. (AP Photo/Alexander Zemlianichenko, File)

• Copy Link copied

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Biden administration has made a new and significant offer aimed at securing the release of American detainees Paul Whelan and Evan Gershkovich , but Russia has rejected the offer, the State Department said Tuesday.

Spokesman Matthew Miller did not reveal the details of the offer nor why Russia had turned it down, but the revelation of the proposal was a fresh indication that Washington is continuing to try to negotiate with Moscow to get both men home.

“This was a new proposal, in recent weeks. It was a significant proposal,” Miller said. “And it was rejected by the Russians but it does not, it will not deter us from continuing to do everything we can to try and bring both of them home.”

The U.S. government has declared both Whelan and Gershkovich to be wrongfully detained.

Whelan, a corporate security executive from Michigan, has been jailed in Russia since his December 2018 arrest on espionage-related charges that both he and the U.S. government dispute. He was sentenced to 16 years in prison,

Gershkovich, a Wall Street Journal reporter, was detained in March while on a reporting trip to the Russian city of Yekaterinburg, about 2,000 kilometers (1,200 miles) east of Moscow.

Gershkovich and the Journal deny the allegations, and Russian authorities haven’t detailed any evidence to support the espionage charges. A Russian court last week extended the detention until Jan. 30.

“They never should have been arrested in the first place. They should be released immediately,” Miller said. “But we have made a number of proposals and including a substantial one in recent weeks and we will continue to work every day to bring Evan and Paul Whelan home. There is no prior higher priority for the Secretary of State. There is no higher priority for the president.”

In July 2022, Secretary of State Antony Blinken revealed that the U.S. had made a substantial proposal to Moscow to get home WNBA star Brittney Griner and Whelan. Griner was ultimately released in December in a prisoner swap with notorious Russian arms trafficker Viktor Bout , but Whelan was not part of the deal.