In 2008, Hamad bin Jassim bin Jaber Al Thani, the former prime minister of Qatar, gave the yachting world something to fall head over heels for, the $300 million superyacht Al Mirqab. The 437-footer is best described as a family yacht, the perfect mix of the modern and classic, launched by Peterswerft-Kusch. The Qatari politician roped in doyens like Tim Heywood and Andrew Winch to breathe life into the mammoth. While Andrew Winch is endorsed for making yachts look great, it is safe to say the Al Mirqab made Andrew Winch great. Let us delve into the design, amenities, and grandeur of a luxury vessel that impressed the ultra-wealthy Al-Thani royals –
The superyacht offers unmatched amenities, luxuries, and opulence –
To this day, the Al Mirqab remains among the top five percent of the largest yachts in the world. The former Prime Minister and his clan enjoy an array of amenities inside this sheathed superyacht with the most marvelous features ever witnessed in a vessel. Per Heywood, the owner wanted many guests and family cabins, an internal swimming pool with balconies, a large gym, a sauna, a hairdressing saloon, and more.
Keeping kids and entertainment in mind, a pirate-themed underwater viewing room was commissioned, eventually becoming a family favorite. “This magical area, with chests of gold and pirate influences provided a space to inspire the children and hopefully young children again today,” said Winch to Boat International. “It is for all to enjoy and experience the underwater beauty of the ocean.”
The Al Mirqab family lounge was another enchanting space elucidated by vibrant fluttering butterflies. Inspired by the winged insect, the sycamore walls were wrapped in velvety fabrics soft to the touch, creating a relaxing ambiance. The main deck saloon is massive, akin to a courtyard terrace with a square plan and seating in every room corner.
While there are no images to enjoy, the interiors of Al Marqab are planned keeping the extravagant residences of the Qatari royals in mind. It emphasizes lifestyle and experiencing the joy of excellent yachting in the company of family and upto 26 guests. “The interiors team cut no corners in the design and manufacture of the materials, furniture and fixtures, creating an interior of such high standard that it is still outstanding today,” Winch said.
The $300 million asset, Al Mirqab, also sets a benchmark with a hybrid propulsion system that enables it to cruise at more than 20 knots. No small feat for a 437-footer.
If any luxury boat could give Al Mirqab a fight, it is the yacht Katara coming from the same Al-Thani family. The $400 million floating palace of Emir Tamim bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani is longer than a Fifa soccer field at 410 feet (Al Marqab is even longer). It boasts a two-decker main saloon, satellite communication domes, and an arsenal of toys and tenders.
Sheikh Hamad bin Jassim bin Jaber bin Mohammed bin Thani Al Thani, the man who bought London-
known informally by his initials HBJ, the Former PM of Qatar flaunts a net worth of roughly $1.2 billion. The 62-year-old earned the moniker the “man who bought London” after he bought a series of valuable assets to expand Qatar’s financial holdings in London. His connection runs deeper than real estate and links HBJ to British royalty over the alleged cash donations to Prince Charles (King Charles at the time of writing). Like his family members, this Qatari royal is an avid art collector. His collection boasts Picasso’s Les Femmes d’Alger purchased for a whopping $179.4 million, setting a record for the highest price for a painting at an auction.
