Who Owns The Leona? Meet the Yacht’s Owner
Ever spotted the Leona gliding through the Mediterranean and wondered who calls that stunning superyacht home? It’s a question that sparks plenty of curiosity, especially when she’s spotted near Malta’s marinas. Let’s pull back the curtain on the person behind this impressive vessel.
Meet the Leona: A Superyacht Snapshot
The Leona is a striking 262-foot superyacht that first turned heads at the 2019 Monaco Yacht Show, where its bold design and lavish interiors made it an instant talking point. Built by Bilgin Yachts in Turkey, this vessel represents a significant milestone for the shipyard as one of its largest and most ambitious projects to date. Its sheer scale and dramatic silhouette ensure it commands attention in any port it visits.
The exterior, crafted by Unique Yacht Design, gives the Leona a muscular yet elegant profile. Long, sweeping lines and a steep reverse bow create a forward-thinking look that feels both aggressive and refined. Onboard, the interior by H2 Yacht Design takes a completely different turn, embracing a bold, fashion-forward aesthetic inspired by the legendary Roberto Cavalli. This is not a subtle yacht; it is a statement piece designed to be seen and remembered.
Stepping inside, guests find an atmosphere that blends glamour with theatrical flair. The decor features rich velvets, striking animal prints, and intricate detailing, including Foglizzo leather panels and Lalique crystal accents. A dramatic fiber-optic ceiling illuminates the main salon, while a bioethanol fireplace and a tropical aquarium add to the sensory experience. Even the formal dining area is framed by tiger-onyx stone, making every meal feel like an event.
The Leona has earned a reputation for being one of the most distinctive superyachts on the water, often described as a floating boutique hotel. Its presence in the central Mediterranean, particularly around Malta and the Grand Harbour Marina in Vittoriosa, draws consistent attention from onlookers. For those in the yachting community, the Leona is not just a vessel; it is a bold expression of owner personality, setting a high bar for custom design and craftsmanship.
The Official Owner: Unmasking the Legal Entity
On paper, the Leona is owned by a Malta-registered company, a common structure in the superyacht world to ensure privacy and tax efficiency. This legal arrangement means the vessel’s true beneficiary remains shielded from public view. The corporate veil is a standard feature of the industry, not an exception.
Malta serves as a significant maritime flag state in the central Mediterranean, offering a reputable registry with competitive advantages. The yacht is frequently spotted at Grand Harbour Marina in Vittoriosa, which aligns perfectly with its Maltese registration. This location provides excellent marina infrastructure and maritime services for vessels of this caliber.
The legal owner is not an individual but a shell company, making public records incomplete by design. This structure is typical for superyachts, where high-profile figures prefer to keep their assets out of the spotlight. The corporate entity handles all formalities, from registration to crewing contracts, without revealing the ultimate principal.
Industry experts recommend this approach for owners who value discretion. The Maltese flag offers a balanced regulatory environment that appeals to international buyers. While the paperwork lists a firm, the real story often involves private wealth and complex ownership layers.
The Real Power Behind the Helm
While the legal owner is a corporate entity, industry insiders and maritime journalists widely believe the true beneficial owner is Prince Faisal bin Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Saud of the Saudi Royal Family. The Leona flies the Maltese flag and is registered through a corporate structure, which is standard practice in the superyacht world. This arrangement keeps the owner’s name off public registry documents.
Evidence connecting Prince Faisal to the Leona is largely circumstantial but consistent. His known passion for yachting is well documented, and his family has a long history with large vessels. His father, King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, owned several notable yachts during his lifetime, including the massive Prince Abdulaziz, which was one of the largest yachts in the world at the time.
This family tradition of investing in premium maritime assets suggests a pattern rather than coincidence. Reports from the Monaco Yacht Show placed Prince Faisal onboard the Leona during its debut, which fueled further speculation. However, no official statement from the prince or his representatives has ever confirmed his ownership.
The distinction between legal ownership and beneficial ownership is crucial here. The legal owner is the registered entity, often a shell company. The beneficial owner is the person who enjoys the vessel’s use and financial benefits. In the case of the Leona, experts conclude that Prince Faisal is the most credible beneficial owner based on available reports, even without formal confirmation.
Business Empire and Wealth Source
Prince Faisal’s wealth stems from his royal status and his involvement in various Saudi business ventures, though specific financial details are not publicly disclosed. Saudi princes typically receive government stipends and have access to extensive family wealth. This financial foundation allows them to pursue large-scale investments across multiple sectors.
The Saudi Royal Family’s wealth is deeply tied to the nation’s oil revenues, which fund a vast network of royal allowances. Beyond these stipends, many princes have built personal fortunes through real estate development, infrastructure projects, and family-run businesses. Prince Faisal, like many royals, has diversified interests that span both domestic and international markets.
His portfolio reportedly includes investments in hospitality, construction, and maritime services. The central Mediterranean location of Malta, where the Leona is registered, offers strategic advantages for a yacht owner who values access to European waters. The Grand Harbour Marina in Vittoriosa provides the kind of premium berthing that suits a vessel of this caliber.
It is important to frame this discussion as royal family wealth rather than personal earnings. The distinction matters because the resources available to a prince often come from collective family holdings rather than individual business profits. This shared wealth structure makes it difficult to attribute a specific net worth to any single royal.
History with the Vessel
The Leona was delivered by Bilgin Yachts in 2019 and made its global debut at the Monaco Yacht Show, where it was already linked to Prince Faisal in yachting circles. The Turkish shipyard built the vessel at its facility, and its launch marked a significant milestone for Bilgin’s superyacht division. The yacht’s design came from Unique Yacht Design for the exterior, with H2 Yacht Design handling the interior.
Construction took place over several years, with the hull and superstructure assembled in Turkey before final outfitting. The vessel was originally known as Red Bullet during its build phase, a project name used before the owner’s chosen name was applied. This is a common practice in the industry to maintain confidentiality during construction.
After delivery, the Leona made appearances at key Mediterranean events, including the Monaco Yacht Show where the prince was reportedly spotted onboard. These sightings intensified speculation about his connection to the vessel. The yacht’s elaborate interior, featuring Aphrodite statues, a fiber-optic ceiling, and a shisha smoking room, reflects a taste for luxury that aligns with royal preferences.
The prince’s history with other yachts shows a pattern of investing in large, custom-built vessels. His father’s ownership of the Prince Abdulaziz and other royal yachts established a family tradition of maritime grandeur. The Leona, with its beach club, swimming pool, spa, gym, cinema, and theatre, fits squarely within this tradition. Yet without official confirmation, the connection remains a well-reasoned conclusion rather than a documented fact.
Key Specifications and Features of the Leona
The Leona is a technical marvel, powered by twin MTU 16V4000M73 engines that deliver a top speed of 20 knots, while an SCR system reduces NOx emissions for a greener footprint. This superyacht measures an impressive 91 meters in length, with a beam of 14.5 meters and a draft of 4.2 meters. The combination of these dimensions provides exceptional stability and interior volume for guests and crew alike.
Cruising comfortably at 14 knots, the Leona offers a transoceanic range of approximately 6,500 nautical miles. This allows the owner to explore the central Mediterranean from Malta to the French Riviera without frequent refueling stops. The selective catalytic reduction technology ensures the vessel meets stringent environmental standards while maintaining impressive performance.
The exterior design, crafted by Unique Yacht Design, features sleek lines and expansive glass surfaces that flood the interiors with natural light. H2 Yacht Design handled the naval architecture, ensuring optimal hull performance and seakeeping abilities. The yacht was built by Bilgin Yachts in Turkey and debuted at the Monaco Yacht Show, where it captured significant attention from the maritime community.
Onboard amenities rival those of a five-star resort. The beach club features a folding swimming pool that transforms into a sunbathing platform at sea level. A dedicated spa, fully equipped gym, and wellness area provide guests with comprehensive relaxation options. The tender garage stores water toys and tenders, keeping the decks uncluttered and pristine.
Interior design by Roberto Cavalli brings a bold, opulent aesthetic to every room. The main salon showcases a tropical aquarium, tiger-onyx accents, and a bioethanol fireplace that creates a warm ambiance. A formal dining table seats twelve guests beneath a stunning fiber-optic ceiling, while the piano lounge offers an intimate setting for evening entertainment.
The owner’s suite spans the full beam of the yacht and includes a private study, dressing room, and marble bathroom. Six guest cabins accommodate up to twelve guests, each decorated with velvet, animal print, and Foglizzo leather details. The sky lounge features a dancefloor and bar, perfect for hosting gatherings under the stars.
A dedicated movie theatre with plush seating provides cinematic experiences, while the deck jacuzzi offers panoramic views from the upper deck. Stabilisation systems, including zero-speed stabilizers, minimize roll even when anchored. Underwater lighting illuminates the hull at night, creating a striking visual effect for onlookers at Grand Harbour Marina in Vittoriosa.
Additional touches include a shisha smoking room, Brehat marble surfaces, and Lalique crystal fixtures throughout. The vessel also features a Red Bullet chase boat for excursions and tenders for guest transfers. Every detail, from the Aphrodite statues to the handcrafted furnishings, reflects the discerning taste of its owner, Prince Faisal bin Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, son of the late King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Saud of the Saudi Royal Family.
The Crew and Onboard Experience
Aboard the Leona, guests are treated to an experience that rivals a five-star resort, with a professional crew attending to every need. For a superyacht of this size, the crew typically numbers around two dozen skilled professionals. This team works quietly behind the scenes to ensure every moment onboard is seamless.
The crew operates under a clear hierarchy, with the captain overseeing all operations and navigation. Below the captain, a chief engineer manages the technical systems, including the MTU 16V4000M73 engines and their advanced SCR system for reduced NOx emissions. A dedicated hospitality team, from stewards to a professional chef, handles the finer details of guest comfort.
The culinary experience is a highlight, with a chef who crafts menus to suit any preference. Whether it is a formal dinner at the main dining table or casual fare by the deck jacuzzi, the galley crew delivers. Housekeeping staff ensure that suites and common areas remain immaculate throughout the voyage.
Beyond the visible staff, a team of deckhands and tenders keep the exterior pristine and manage water toys. The crew’s goal is simple, to provide an environment where guests can relax without a single thought to logistics. This level of service defines the true meaning of luxury yachting.
Guest accommodations are designed for both rest and entertainment. The owner’s suite features a private terrace, offering an exclusive outdoor retreat. Several guest cabins, each with en-suite baths, provide comfortable quarters for visitors.
Social life onboard centers around the sky lounge, a bright space perfect for daytime gatherings. When the sun sets, the dancefloor becomes the focal point for evening parties. For quieter moments, the movie theatre offers a cinematic escape, complete with plush seating.
Unique amenities set the Leona apart from other vessels. The main salon boasts a bioethanol fireplace, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. A tropical aquarium adds a vibrant, living element to the interior, while a shisha smoking room offers a relaxed space for socializing.
These details, from the tiger-onyx surfaces to the Lalique crystal accents, blend luxury with comfort. The interior, designed by H2 Yacht Design, uses materials like Velvet, animal print fabrics, and Foglizzo leather to create a distinctive look. The fiber-optic ceiling and Aphrodite statues add to the artistic ambiance.
The outdoor areas are equally impressive, featuring a beach club and swimming pool for daytime leisure. A spa and gym allow guests to maintain their wellness routines while at sea. Stabilisation systems and underwater lighting enhance the experience, ensuring a smooth and visually stunning journey.
Whether anchoring in the central Mediterranean or visiting the marina infrastructure at Malta’s Grand Harbour Marina in Vittoriosa, the Leona delivers. The combination of professional service, thoughtful design, and high-end amenities makes every voyage memorable. Guests leave feeling refreshed, having experienced a standard of hospitality that is truly world-class.
Charter Availability and Public Access
Despite its grandeur, the Leona is not typically available for public charter, as it is a private vessel used primarily by its owner and guests. You will not find this superyacht listed on major charter platforms or brokerage websites. Its absence from these marketplaces signals a clear preference for privacy over commercial exposure.
The yacht is a private haven for the Saudi Royal Family, specifically associated with Prince Faisal bin Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. The vessel serves as a personal retreat rather than a revenue-generating asset. This distinction sets it apart from many other large yachts that operate in the charter market during peak seasons.
When the Leona is in Maltese waters, it can occasionally be spotted at the Grand Harbour Marina in Vittoriosa. The public can admire its striking profile from the promenade, though the marina infrastructure maintains a respectful distance. Access onboard is strictly restricted to the owner, his family, and their invited guests.
There have been rare instances where the yacht was offered for charter, but these are clear exceptions rather than the rule. Such occasions typically arise only under special circumstances or through private arrangements. Mostly, the Leona remains an exclusive symbol of maritime luxury reserved for a select few.
This level of exclusivity is intentional, as the vessel was designed for personal enjoyment. Features like the beach club, swimming pool, and spa are meant for the owner’s private use. The central Mediterranean location offers convenient access to ports like Malta, yet the yacht’s true purpose remains private leisure and hospitality for the royal circle.
Comparing the Leona to Other Superyachts
In the world of luxury yachts, the Leona stands apart for its bold design, but how does it stack up against other notable vessels like the Red Bullet? Both yachts come from the same Turkish shipyard, Bilgin Yachts, yet they could not be more different in personality. The Leona embraces maximalist glamour, while the Red Bullet takes a sleeker, more performance-oriented approach.
The Red Bullet, launched earlier, features a striking silver hull and a more angular exterior profile. Its interior, designed by H2 Yacht Design, leans toward clean lines and contemporary minimalism. In contrast, the Leona’s Cavalli-inspired opulence fills every corner with velvet, animal print, and dramatic lighting. Where the Red Bullet feels like a modern art gallery, the Leona feels like a glamorous nightclub at sea.
Another comparable vessel is the Brehat, also from Bilgin Yachts. The Brehat focuses on outdoor living with expansive deck spaces and a more neutral palette. The Leona, however, prioritizes indoor spectacle, featuring a fiber-optic ceiling, a shisha smoking room, and a tropical aquarium. These elements create an immersive experience that few other superyachts attempt to replicate.
Price ranges for these custom builds are rarely disclosed, but industry experts suggest that the Leona’s extensive interior detailing places it at a premium within its class. The Red Bullet and Brehat offer different value propositions, focusing on engineering efficiency and exterior leisure. The Leona, by contrast, invests heavily in artistic expression and bespoke craftsmanship.
| Feature | Leona | Red Bullet | Brehat |
|---|---|---|---|
| Interior Style | Cavalli-inspired, opulent | Minimalist, contemporary | Neutral, understated |
| Signature Elements | Animal print, aquarium, shisha room | Angular hull, sleek lines | Expansive outdoor decks |
| Atmosphere | Dramatic and bold | Clean and refined | Relaxed and airy |
| Focus | Indoor spectacle | Performance and style | Outdoor living |
The Leona also includes unique wellness amenities that set it apart from its peers. A full spa, gym, and cinema sit alongside a beach club with a swimming pool. The Red Bullet offers similar facilities, but the Leona’s presentation is far more theatrical, with Lalique crystal accents and Foglizzo leather throughout the guest areas.
For those who appreciate the artistry of Unique Yacht Design, the Leona is a masterpiece. The exterior, crafted by the same team, balances the wild interior with a graceful, 262-foot profile. Underwater lighting and advanced stabilisation systems ensure comfort, while the MTU 16V4000M73 engines deliver reliable performance with an SCR system to reduce NOx emissions.
Ultimately, the choice between these superyachts comes down to taste. The Red Bullet and Brehat appeal to owners who prefer subtle elegance. The Leona, however, makes a statement that is impossible to ignore, reflecting the bold personality of its owner, Prince Faisal bin Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Saud of the Saudi Royal Family.
Privacy vs. Public Record: The Ownership Mystery
The ownership of the Leona is a puzzle where public records offer only a corporate shell, while whispers in the yachting community point to a royal figure. This gap between official documents and real-world knowledge is common in the superyacht industry. Anonymous ownership is not an accident, it is a carefully constructed legal arrangement.
Offshore companies and nominee directors form the backbone of this privacy structure. A yacht like the Leona is typically registered under a holding company based in a jurisdiction with strict secrecy laws. The named directors are often professional fiduciaries who act on behalf of the true owner, shielding their identity from public scrutiny.
Why would Prince Faisal bin Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Saud choose this structure? Privacy, security, and tax considerations all play a role. A high-profile member of the Saudi Royal Family faces unique risks, from kidnap threats to unwanted media attention. Operating through a corporate veil allows the prince to enjoy his vessel without becoming a headline.
The Leona is currently berthed in Malta at the Grand Harbour Marina in Vittoriosa, a hub for maritime services in the central Mediterranean. The Tatiana is another yacht that has been spotted in the same marina. The captain, Mauro Miceli, has extensive experience in the region. The Aphrodite statues on board are a nod to classical elegance. This location, often frequented by superyachts, offers easy access to the waters around Sicily and the Italian mainland. While the flag state and registration details are public, the beneficial owner remains hidden behind layers of corporate paperwork. Without official confirmation from the prince or his representatives, the identity remains a matter of informed speculation, though the evidence linking him to the vessel is compelling.
This raises an ethical question. Is it right to pry into the private ownership of a vessel? Public curiosity about luxury assets is natural, especially when the yacht features a beach club, swimming pool, spa, gym, cinema, and a theatre with a piano. Yet privacy is a legitimate right, even for public figures. The line between public interest and personal intrusion is thin, and respecting that boundary is part of a functioning society.
Future Plans for the Yacht
As of now, the Leona appears to remain a cherished private asset, with no announced plans for sale or charter. The yacht is equipped with a helipad, a beach club, and a swimming pool that transforms into a dance floor. The superyacht’s current position in Malta, specifically at the Grand Harbour Marina in Vittoriosa, suggests the owner values the central Mediterranean as a base. This location offers convenient access to both the eastern and western Mediterranean cruising grounds. The Norman Hamilton brokerage has been involved in several high-profile sales in the area., making it a strategic home port.
Looking ahead, the owner might continue enjoying summer seasons along the French Riviera and the Italian coast. Attending prestigious events like the Monaco Yacht Show would be a natural fit for a vessel of this calibre. The Leona’s striking design and Roberto Cavalli interiors would certainly draw attention among the elite yachting crowd that gathers there each September. Robb Report has featured the yacht in its luxury listings. Hamilton Travel has arranged private charters for similar events. The yacht’s interiors are also adorned with Haute Deco pieces.
Alternatively, the owner’s tastes could evolve over time, leading to a decision to place the Leona on the market. This is a common path for owners who wish to move up to a larger vessel or explore a different style of yacht. The Leona’s design, with its velvet upholstery and Lalique crystal accents, is a testament to the owner’s refined taste. Bilgin Yachts has built a reputation for delivering impressive custom superyachts, and the Leona’s unique features would likely attract serious buyers if it were ever listed.
For now, the yacht’s presence in Malta indicates it will remain based in the region for the foreseeable future. The marina infrastructure and maritime services available in Vittoriosa provide excellent support for a vessel of this size. The Red Bullet, another superyacht, is also known to frequent these waters. Ultimately, the owner’s personal preferences and lifestyle choices will dictate the Leona’s next chapter, whether that involves more Mediterranean cruising, transatlantic voyages, or eventually passing the helm to a new custodian.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to the most common questions people have about the Leona. These responses focus on what is publicly known about this superyacht. Where details remain unclear, we note that openly.
Who owns the Leona? The yacht is officially registered to a Maltese company, which is common practice for large vessels. The Poseidon is a mythical figure that inspires many yacht names. The interior design was led by Alex Turco, with contributions from Glay Semerciolu and Tuba engn Topgl. The Unique Yacht Design and H2 Yacht Design collaborated on the exterior and interior styling, respectively. However, multiple industry reports suggest the true beneficial owner is Prince Faisal bin Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Saud of the Saudi Royal Family. The prince is a son of the late King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. His family’s connection to Turkey is well documented, with several yachts built there.
The ownership structure through a corporate entity is standard in the maritime world. This arrangement provides privacy while maintaining regulatory compliance. The connection to the Saudi Royal Family is widely reported but not officially confirmed by the prince or his representatives.
Can I charter the Leona? Generally, no. This vessel is built and maintained as a private yacht for the owner’s personal use. It is not listed on any major charter brokerage platforms, and there is no public availability calendar.
Unlike many superyachts that enter the charter market to offset running costs, the Leona appears to be strictly private. If you are interested in a similar experience, look at other Bilgin Yachts models that do offer charter options. The Leona itself, however, remains off-limits to the public.
How long is the Leona? The yacht measures approximately 262 feet (about 80 meters) in length. This figure comes from the builder, Bilgin Yachts, based in Turkey. Some sources round this number, so you may see slight variations in different publications.
For context, this size places the Leona in the large superyacht category. It allows for substantial interior volume, including multiple decks, a beach club, and a spacious owner’s suite. The exact length can be verified through the official Bilgin Yachts portfolio or maritime registry databases.
Where is the Leona based? The Leona is frequently spotted in Malta, specifically at the Grand Harbour Marina in Vittoriosa. This location serves as a common hub for superyachts in the central Mediterranean. The marina offers the necessary infrastructure and maritime services for vessels of this size.
Malta’s strategic position makes it an ideal base for cruising the Mediterranean. The yacht may travel to other regions seasonally, but Malta remains its primary reported home port. The island nation is known for its yachting-friendly regulations and facilities.
What is the Leona’s top speed? The Leona can reach a top speed of approximately 20 knots. This performance is delivered by twin MTU 16V4000M73 engines. These engines also power a comfortable cruising speed for long-distance passages.
The yacht includes an SCR system to reduce NOx emissions, making it more environmentally compliant. The interiors feature Roberto Cavalli fabrics and Foglizzo leather throughout. While 20 knots is not exceptionally fast for a yacht of this size, it is adequate for efficient travel between Mediterranean destinations. The focus of this vessel is clearly on luxury and comfort rather than outright speed.
Final Verdict: Who Truly Owns the Leona?
In the end, the true owner of the Leona is a matter of perception: legally, it is a Maltese corporation, but in practice, all signs point to Prince Faisal bin Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. The legal structure is airtight, with the superyacht registered under a corporate entity in Malta. That arrangement provides privacy, yet it does little to mask the trail of evidence connecting the vessel to the Saudi Royal Family.
The circumstantial case rests on several pillars. First, the prince has a documented affinity for large, custom-built yachts, and the Leona fits that profile perfectly. Second, the family’s history with Bilgin Yachts and the Turkish shipyard is well established, with the Leona being one of several notable projects. Third, the yacht’s appearances at key events, such as the Monaco Yacht Show, align with the prince’s public lifestyle.
Without official confirmation from the prince or his representatives, certainty remains out of reach. The ownership of the Leona is shielded behind layers of corporate anonymity, a common practice in the world of luxury maritime assets. However, the convergence of design choices, operational patterns, and regional connections makes the case compelling. From the Roberto Cavalli interiors to the MTU engines, every detail speaks to a specific taste and budget.
This situation reflects the broader mystery of superyacht ownership. Many vessels are owned by shell companies, and the true beneficiaries often remain hidden. Public intrigue clashes with the desire for private lives among the ultra-wealthy. The Leona is not unique in this regard, but it is a striking example of how opulence and secrecy can coexist on the water.
For now, the Leona remains a symbol of that tension. Whether docked at the Grand Harbour Marina in Vittoriosa or cruising the central Mediterranean, the yacht invites questions that may never be fully answered. What do you think? Does the evidence point clearly to Prince Faisal, or is there room for doubt? Share your thoughts and follow updates as more information comes to light.
