What better way to flaunt your diamonds than on a luxurious yacht sailing to Italy? Mariah Carey’s extravagant getaways on stunning superyachts exemplify the saying “diva is the female version of a hustler,” as Beyoncé famously put it.
Celebrities approach superyachts in various ways: some own at least one, engaging in the design and building process, while others prefer chartering different vessels each year. The selection process is significant since these yachts essentially become a home away from home for a significant portion of the year. Mariah Carey, alongside her children and her partner at the time, indulged in lavish vacations on multiple opulent yachts, exploring some of the world’s most beautiful destinations. However, the yacht she decided to showcase during her high-profile romance with Australian billionaire James Packer was the exquisite Capri. This choice is unsurprising, considering that Capri remains one of the most sophisticated and elegant floating mansions globally.
In years past, the diva generated buzz by revealing that she and her boyfriend, Packer, were vacationing on his-and-hers yachts. This unconventional arrangement meant that although they were enjoying an extended cruise in the Mediterranean, each of them had their own separate multimillion-dollar luxury vessel, complete with premium amenities and exquisite design.
This decision stunned many, particularly since Packer, one of Australia’s wealthiest individuals, owned one of the ten largest yachts globally, the Arctic P explorer. The Arctic P remains an expansive and powerful explorer, seamlessly blending high performance with top-tier amenities. However, Mariah Carey chose to possess her own “toy,” humorously justifying it by claiming that a couple should have “his-and-hers everything.”
While smaller compared to the Arctic P, Capri is no less majestic, measuring 192 feet (58.5 meters). Custom-built by renowned German shipyard Lurssen in 2003, Capri boasts exterior and interior design by Glade Johnson, spanning five decks. Despite the capability to accommodate up to 12 guests across six suites, with a 15-person crew catering to their needs, the diva desired exclusive use of this floating mansion.
Exotic woods, exquisite marbles, silk accents, and opulent decor harmonize with Mariah Carey’s extravagant style. The decorating style, labeled by the builder as “elegant classic with contemporary elements,” creates a perfect backdrop for Mimi’s glamour. Even the staircase connecting decks makes for a dazzling stage for her grand entrances. In addition to two bars, Capri features a main salon housing a remarkable piano, reportedly a valuable vintage instrument.
Unsurprisingly, the master suite is designed for royalty, featuring a king-size bed, high-end finishes, and an en-suite marble bathroom with a spa bathtub. All cabins on Capri are elegantly appointed and equipped with 42-inch plasma TVs. The classic jacuzzi and fully-equipped, air-conditioned gym also enhance Capri’s allure.
While soaking in champagne inside the jacuzzi or lounging in the main salon are enticing activities, a library offers a quieter form of entertainment. Additionally, a private observation room on the top deck provides panoramic views. Mariah Carey and her children had a variety of water toys at their disposal, although they often preferred to venture on Packer’s explorer for their adventurous escapades.
Known for her penchant for royal treatment, Mariah Carey’s summer yacht vacation came complete with a private chef and onboard masseuse. After all, when spending months at sea, enjoying the comforts of home is a necessity.
According to Boat International, each cabin is equipped with an iPad for individual control, while each area on the yacht boasts a satellite receiver for television, as well as movies and music on demand. Whether indulging in digital entertainment or enjoying the classic piano, guests onboard would undoubtedly be pleased.
Capri was also designed with performance in mind. Twin Caterpillar 1,950 HP engines enable a top speed of 16 knots (18.4 mph / 29.6 kph) and a global cruising range exceeding 8,000 nautical miles (9,206 miles / 14,816 km). However, maintaining these massive yachts comes at a significant cost. Mariah Carey’s occasional sea mansion incurs a fuel expense of $40,000 per week alone.
Although nearly a decade old, Lurssen’s Capri underwent a refit in 2017 and received a new fully-integrated navigational system in 2012.
While the pop superstar’s yacht preferences may have evolved since her time with Capri, the yacht she chose remains a favored option among the affluent. For those with $300,000 per week to spare, Capri awaits at Yacht Charter Fleet.