Bid on the Weatherbird Yacht: Own a Piece of History and Culture with this Iconic Superyacht

The Timeless Allure of the Weatherbird: A Century of Stories on the High Seas

Owning a yacht is often a symbol of luxury and status, but possessing one that has a rich history and has hosted some of the most influential figures of the 20th century is a rare privilege. Next month, the sailing yacht Weatherbird will be up for auction, offering a unique opportunity to acquire a piece of maritime history that has sailed through the lives of composers, writers, artists, and designers.

A Glimpse into History

Launched in 1931, the Weatherbird is a stunning 102-foot (31-meter) oak and teak schooner currently docked in Greece. Her design features an unusually beamy stance of 21 feet (6.5 meters), setting her apart from other sailing yachts of her era. This generous beam not only enhances her aesthetic appeal but also provides ample space below decks, accommodating four staterooms and inviting social areas. Over the decades, the yacht has undergone several refits, the most recent of which was completed in 2021. This extensive renovation modernized her systems while preserving the charm of her Art Deco interior.

Modern Comforts Meet Classic Elegance

The Weatherbird’s main deck features a saloon that welcomes guests with its rich oak paneling, a cozy fireplace, and a unique piano that doubles as a coffee table. The yacht’s interior is a testament to the craftsmanship of her builders, Chantelot & Lemaistre, and the artistic vision of stylists Victor Orloff and Henri Rambaud. While she boasts modern amenities such as automated sail handling, new gensets, a watermaker, and updated navigation gear, the character of her original design remains intact, making her a perfect blend of history and modern luxury.

A Social Hub for the Elite

The Weatherbird is not just a yacht; she is a floating salon that has welcomed some of the most notable figures of the 20th century. Originally commissioned by American couple Gerald and Sara Murphy, the yacht became a central part of their vibrant social life on the French Riviera during the 1920s. The Murphys mingled with literary giants such as F. Scott Fitzgerald and Ernest Hemingway, as well as cultural icons like Coco Chanel, Pablo Picasso, and Cole Porter. The yacht is said to have inspired Fitzgerald’s novel "Tender Is the Night," with the characters Nicole and Dick Diver modeled after the Murphys themselves. Additionally, Picasso is rumored to have designed her burgee, while a turntable record of Louis Armstrong’s “Weatherbird” is famously embedded in her keel.

Performance and Auction Details

According to Northrop & Johnson, the yacht’s current representatives, the Weatherbird performs admirably under sail, cruising comfortably at 8 knots. For repositioning, her twin Cummins engines can reach speeds of up to 11 knots, ensuring that she is as functional as she is beautiful.

The auction of the Weatherbird is a collaborative effort between Boathouse Auctions and Northrop & Johnson. Interested buyers can view the yacht in person by appointment, with live online bidding set to commence on February 20. Bids will start at €1 million, concluding on February 25, although the reserve price remains undisclosed.

More About the Yacht Weatherbird

• Length Overall (LOA): 101’8” (31 meters)
• Beam: 21’3” (6.5 meters)
• Draft: 11’15” (3.48 meters)
• Guest Capacity: 8 guests in 4 staterooms
• Sailplan: Gaff-rig schooner
• Sail Area: Not specified
• Builder: Chantelot & Lemaistre
• Stylist: Victor Orloff, Henri Rambaud
• Naval Architect: Chantelot & Lemaistre
• Interior Designer: Not specified

Conclusion

The Weatherbird is more than just a yacht; she is a vessel of history, a testament to the glamour and creativity of the 20th century. For those who appreciate the intersection of art, literature, and maritime tradition, owning the Weatherbird is an opportunity to carry forward the legacy of the remarkable individuals who once graced her decks. As the auction approaches, the allure of this storied yacht continues to grow, promising to attract bidders who recognize the value of history and elegance on the high seas.

For more information about the auction, visit Boathouse Auctions and Northrop & Johnson.