Duke of Westminster to sell yacht
12th November 2008
Duke of Westminster to sell 100 year old exclusive restored royal yacht
The Duke of Westminster, who with an estimated property empire of £7 billion is richer than the Queen of England, put his historical 92ft yacht, named the Ilona of Kylesku after an area on his estate in the Scottish Highlands, on the market in May 2008 for £2.5 million.
Thus far the Duke of Westminster’s restored vessel has failed to attract a buyer. This is despite the fact that the yacht is being regarded somewhat of a bargain, considering that the Duke of Westminster has spent in excess of £6 million on its three refits.
Careful restoration
When the Duke bought the 100-year-old vessel in Palma during 2001 for £500 000, it was a floating wreck. Now it is regarded as a wonder to behold for yachting enthusiasts. At a leisurely speed of nine knots, the Ilona of Kylesku can cover more than 900 nautical miles before refuelling.
The yacht has a rich history - once boarded by royalty, before being chartered by the Royal Navy in both world wars and reportedly even serving in Operation Dynamo, which entailed the evacuation of Allied Forces from the beaches of Dunkirk in 1940.
A new owner
The Duke of Westminster used it for holidays with his wife and four children in the Scottish isles and the Mediterranean. "I was pleased to have the opportunity to invest in this wonderful yacht," said the Duke of Westminster to The Telegraph. "I will be very sad to see her go. The experience has, for me, been an absolute pleasure. Now the project is complete and so it is a good time to pass her on to another safe pair of hands. “I know she will make someone very happy."
