The Dawn of a New Era for Classic Yacht Lady Esther following a Three-Year Refurbishment

Published: 09 Jun 2025
Reviving a classic, the 65-metre yacht Lady Esther is back on the water following an extensive three-year overhaul by Damen Maaskant.

Once a regal name among yachts, the 65-metre classic Lady Esther has triumphantly returned to the waves. After a comprehensive three-year refurbishment at the hands of the renowned Damen Maaskant, she took her maiden voyage last year from the Dutch yard’s Stellendam site and is currently making waves along the eastern coast of Spain.

The significant refit not only repaired time’s wear and tear but enhanced Lady Esther’s stature considerably. Following the extensive works, she now enjoys a 10-metre extension, a rejuvenated interior layout, and the addition of two glass-walled decks and a luxurious new Jacuzzi. A glimpse at the refreshed Lady Esther reveals a remarkable transformation, as her previously faded grandeur is replaced with a robust masculinity typical of explorer yachts. The award-winning Dutch design studio, Vripack, applied their Midas touch to the redesign, both externally and internally, although the details of their craft are as of yet undisclosed.

Interestingly, the sundeck has long since held the title of the primary social hub onboard the Lady Esther. It is equipped with an array of features to promote leisure and relaxation, including a wet bar, Jacuzzi, sunpads, and even a selection of gym equipment, offering an inviting and versatile space for guests to unwind. Specific details of the changes to this area during the refit remain confidential for now.

Despite this refit marking a significant milestone in Lady Esther’s well-travelled career, it is far from her first refurbishment. Over her 45 years of sailing, she has received several upgrades and refreshments. The most recent of these major upgrades, prior to the latest endeavour, occurred in 2004, when she received a 5.8-metre extension.

Celebrating the Lady Esther’s storied past, the vessel embarks on the newest chapter of its adventure, bolstered by the timeless combination of classical elegance and powerful performance.