Who Owns the Octopus Yacht? The Definitive Answer & Fascinating Insights

The Octopus yacht is currently owned by the Swedish billionaire, Roger Samuelsson, chairman and founder of the investment firm PriorNilsson. He acquired the vessel in 2021 from the estate of its original owner, the late Microsoft co-founder, Paul Allen.

A Legacy on the Water: Understanding the Octopus’s History

The Octopus yacht, a name synonymous with luxury and exploration, boasts a captivating history. Before diving into the specifics of its current ownership and delving into intriguing FAQs, it’s essential to understand its origins. Commissioned by Paul Allen and delivered in 2003, the Octopus was more than just a yacht; it was a floating laboratory, a research vessel, and an embodiment of Allen’s passion for exploration and marine conservation. For years, it was a symbol of his extraordinary vision, travelling the globe and contributing to scientific discoveries.

The Transition of Ownership: From Allen to Samuelsson

Following Paul Allen’s passing in 2018, the Octopus was put up for sale. Its unique capabilities and storied history made it a highly sought-after acquisition. In 2021, Roger Samuelsson emerged as the new owner, inheriting not only the physical vessel but also the legacy of exploration and innovation that it represented. While Samuelsson’s primary business focus lies in investment management, his acquisition of the Octopus suggests a shared appreciation for adventure and potentially, a commitment to continue the yacht’s legacy of exploration.

Who is Roger Samuelsson? The New Captain of the Octopus

Roger Samuelsson is a prominent figure in the Swedish financial world. As the chairman and founder of PriorNilsson, a highly successful investment firm, he commands significant respect within the industry. While less publicly known than Paul Allen, Samuelsson is a seasoned businessman with a track record of strategic investment and successful leadership. His decision to acquire the Octopus signals a possible shift in the yacht’s focus, though details of his plans remain somewhat private. It is speculated that he plans to continue the yacht’s legacy of exploration.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Octopus Yacht

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Octopus yacht and its ownership, providing further insight into this iconic vessel.

1. How much did Roger Samuelsson pay for the Octopus?

While the exact sale price remains confidential, industry experts estimate that Roger Samuelsson purchased the Octopus for approximately $278 million. This figure reflects the yacht’s size, its state-of-the-art equipment, and its unique history. It was originally listed for sale at $325 million.

2. What are the key features of the Octopus yacht?

The Octopus is renowned for its impressive features:

• Length: 414 feet (126 meters)
• Ice-class hull: Allows for exploration in polar regions.
• Two helicopters: For transportation and reconnaissance.
• Submarine: Enables underwater exploration.
• Underwater observation lounge: Provides a unique perspective on marine life.
• Eight tenders: Including a custom-built dive boat.
• Swimming pool and jacuzzi: For relaxation and recreation.
• Cinema, library, and gym: Offering onboard entertainment and fitness.
• Seven decks: Providing an enormous living space for guests.
• Dive center: For professional diving operations.

These features underscore its capabilities as both a luxury vessel and a serious exploration platform.

3. Was Paul Allen involved in the design of the Octopus?

Yes, Paul Allen was heavily involved in the design process of the Octopus. He collaborated closely with the naval architects and designers at Lurssen Yachts to create a vessel that met his specific needs and vision. Allen’s passion for exploration and his technological expertise influenced many of the yacht’s innovative features.

4. What kind of research has the Octopus been involved in?

Under Paul Allen’s ownership, the Octopus played a crucial role in various research projects, including:

• Deep-sea exploration: Discovering previously unknown marine species.
• Underwater archaeological surveys: Locating and documenting historic shipwrecks, including the WWII battleship Musashi.
• Marine conservation efforts: Supporting research into ocean health and biodiversity.

The yacht’s capabilities and Allen’s commitment to scientific discovery made it a valuable asset to the research community.

5. Where has the Octopus traveled?

The Octopus has traveled extensively across the globe, visiting destinations such as:

• The Arctic and Antarctic regions: Exploring the polar ice caps and surrounding waters.
• The Mediterranean Sea: Cruising along the coasts of Europe and North Africa.
• The Pacific Ocean: Visiting remote islands and conducting underwater research.
• The Amazon River: Exploring the depths of the famous river.

Its ice-class hull and long-range capabilities have allowed it to venture into some of the most remote and challenging environments on Earth.

6. What is the crew size of the Octopus?

The Octopus requires a large and skilled crew to operate and maintain its complex systems. The typical crew size is around 60 people, including:

• Captain and officers: Responsible for navigation and overall management.
• Engineers: Maintaining the yacht’s engines and mechanical systems.
• Deckhands: Handling mooring, anchoring, and other deck operations.
• Chefs and hospitality staff: Providing meals and other services to guests.
• Security personnel: Ensuring the safety and security of the vessel.
• Specialized staff: Including dive masters, submarine pilots, and helicopter pilots.

7. How environmentally friendly is the Octopus?

While the Octopus is a large and luxurious vessel, efforts have been made to reduce its environmental impact. These include:

• Waste management systems: Minimizing waste and promoting recycling.
• Energy-efficient technologies: Reducing fuel consumption and emissions.
• Compliance with environmental regulations: Adhering to international standards for pollution control.

However, given its size and power requirements, the Octopus still has a significant environmental footprint.

8. Will Roger Samuelsson continue the Octopus’s research legacy?

It remains to be seen whether Roger Samuelsson will continue the research legacy of the Octopus to the same extent as Paul Allen. While he has not publicly announced specific plans, the yacht’s inherent capabilities and its history of scientific exploration suggest that it could still be used for research purposes. Samuelsson may choose to focus on other aspects of yacht ownership, such as private cruising and entertainment.

9. What is the interior design style of the Octopus?

The interior design of the Octopus is described as contemporary and luxurious. It features spacious living areas, high-end finishes, and state-of-the-art technology. The design emphasizes comfort and functionality, with a focus on creating a welcoming and relaxing environment for guests.

10. Where is the Octopus currently located?

The current location of the Octopus can be tracked through publicly available AIS (Automatic Identification System) data. Due to security concerns, its location is not always publicly accessible.

11. What are the running costs of the Octopus?

Owning and operating a yacht of this size and complexity is incredibly expensive. The annual running costs of the Octopus are estimated to be in the tens of millions of dollars, covering expenses such as:

• Fuel: A significant expense, given the yacht’s size and range.
• Crew salaries: Employing a large and skilled crew is a major cost factor.
• Maintenance and repairs: Keeping the yacht in top condition requires regular maintenance and occasional repairs.
• Insurance: Covering the yacht against potential damages and liabilities.
• Docking fees: Paying for berthing in marinas and ports.

12. What future plans are there for the Octopus?

The future plans for the Octopus under Roger Samuelsson’s ownership remain somewhat unclear. It is likely that he will continue to use the yacht for private cruising and entertainment. He may also choose to charter the vessel to other wealthy individuals or companies. Whether he will maintain its role in scientific research is a question that remains to be answered. It’s worth noting that the Octopus went through a major refit in 2024, to ensure that it remains at the cutting edge of technological innovations and design. This reflects the owner’s desire to retain the vessel’s value and prestige.