The Lovingly-Restored Nostalgia Is a Classic Masterpiece Worth Over $15M

Superyachts are often criticized for their enormous operating and maintenance costs, among other things. At the same time, they can also enjoy incredibly long lives. With proper care and a few refits along the way, a luxury yacht can continue to operate successfully for decades, both as a private pleasure craft and a charter yacht. In fact, a well-restored classic vessel can be just as popular, if not more, than contemporary models with all the bells and whistles.

If you had to buy a classic yacht without knowing too much about this market, a Feadship would be your safest bet. With a huge portfolio spanning decades, this world-famous builder probably has more vintage models still in operation than any other builder.

Some of the top ones up for grabs at the moment include King K, a 1981 yacht worth almost $4 million, the 1939 Iduna, and the gorgeous Monaco, launched in 1982. Most of these vessels are under 50 meters (164 feet) but with price tags that vary considerably, ranging from less than $5 million to $25 million (the asking price for Synthetis 66, a 42-meter/137.7 feet yacht launched in 1982).

Nostalgia is among the most expensive ones, with an asking price of €13,6 million ($15.2 million). The beautiful name perfectly matches this Feadship's vibe – timeless elegance, a retro silhouette, and glamorous origins. The current price is justified mainly by the ship's extensive refit, completed just one year ago. The total cost of the refit was reportedly greater than the asking price. Indeed, less than five years ago, this classic boat was asking for less than $7 million.

The 2022 refit not only prolonged Nostalgia's life but also increased its value greatly. The yacht is now perfectly equipped for luxury cruising at contemporary standards. Its main engines (twin Caterpillar) were thoroughly serviced, and it got new generators. The entire electrical installation was overhauled, in addition to new piping and wiring, new paint, and new steel plates, following Lloyd's Register requirements.

In terms of looks and amenities, Nostalgia got beautiful teak decks and a new guest elevator connecting all the levels. The galley was completely renovated. In addition to all that, the classic yacht got a brand-new toy: a powerful Novurania LX650 tender with a Yamaha F200 outboard engine.

Nostalgia was born as Paminusch at the beginning of the '80s. Its origin evokes a fairy-tale-like period when a mysterious Prince met with the designers and architects of the future yacht at his fabulous castle in the south of Germany. It sounds like a legend, yet that's exactly how Paminusch came to be. The acclaimed naval architect Arthur De Fever, interior designer Pierre Tanter, and a team from the de Vries studio were among those who participated in those memorable meetings at the castle.

This would be the original Paminusch, a 150-footer (45.8 meters). Just four years later, a second Paminusch was delivered to the same owner. It was smaller (144 feet/44 meters) and designed entirely by Feadship's De Voogt naval architects.

Decades later, in 2018, the original Paminusch could be spotted in the idyllic Portofino, where it dwarfed all other boats docked in the harbor with its majestic silhouette. By that time, it had changed its name (and ownership) twice, going from the initial name to Paris and then to Strangelove.

Strangelove underwent a comprehensive refit in 2014, more than three decades after its debut. Mlinaric, Henry & Zervudachi gave it a luxurious interior, in line with the sophisticated trends of the mid-2000s. It offered surprisingly generous accommodation for a yacht its size, with a six-cabin layout. Up to 12 guests could be welcomed in a master suite on the main deck, a VIP suite, a double cabin, and three twins, all with en-suite bathrooms and modern entertainment systems.

During the 2014 refit, Strangelove got modern recessed lighting installed in the main salon and new furniture. Quantum zero-speed stabilizers were a must-have for all modern charter yachts, so the 1982 vessel got those too. It promised smooth cruising at 13.5 knots (15.5 mph/25 kph) and a moderate range of 3,330 nautical miles (6,170 km).

In 2019, one year after making waves in Portofino, Strangelove was sold once again for $6.9 million. Three years later, it completed its most complex refit yet, elevating its value to more than $15 million. Renamed Nostalgia, the beautifully-restored classic is now back on the market.

Alberto Pinto and Larvor restyled its interiors, creating an English manor's sophisticated yet warm ambiance. Precious wood paneling, large pieces of furniture, and classic works of art are intertwined with modern accents. The master suite now boasts an unusual pastel palette in shades of lilac, plus a cozy reading nook that doubles as a private office.

Even after decades, this exquisite yacht that was built for a Prince is ready to delight up to 14 guests with unforgettable journeys. Fitted with the same amenities as contemporary yachts, Nostalgia also offers a unique voyage into the past.