A Champion Who Loves the Sea
Born in Rosario, Argentina, in 1987, Lionel Messi spent most of his career at FC Barcelona, where he won four Champions League titles, among numerous other trophies, before joining Paris Saint-Germain in 2021 and Inter Miami in 2023. With eight Ballon d'Or awards and a World Cup victory in Qatar in 2022, the Argentine forward boasts one of the most impressive records in soccer history.
But Messi also enjoys spending vacations at sea, particularly with his family. So he turned to Sunreef Yachts to commission his new powercat. "My family and I have always loved spending time at sea whenever we get the chance," explains the player, who is already looking forward to discovering his Ultima 88.
A Powercat for the Balearic Islands
Founded in 2002 by Francis Lapp, Sunreef Yachts has specialized in large luxury catamarans, both sailing and power. With its Ultima range, however, the Polish builder is exploring a different approach from its traditional multiyachts: narrower vessels designed to combine sporty styling, performance, comfort and generous living spaces.
The model chosen by Messi, the Ultima 88, measures approximately 89 feet (27 meters) in length. Construction is underway in the United Arab Emirates, where Sunreef now operates a production facility. The press release provides no details about the selected propulsion system or any specific customizations requested by the soccer star.
The new powercat is destined to join MIM Ocean, a fleet based in the Balearic Islands offering high-end experiences at sea. The multiyacht will therefore divide its time between private use by the Messi family and luxury charter operations within the fleet.
One thing is certain: with such a high-profile signing, Sunreef Yachts has scored a spectacular goal on the publicity front!
Sunreef Ultima 88: Orders Are Pouring In!
Built at Sunreef Yachts' new shipyard in Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates, the Ultima 88 positions itself as an alternative to large monohull yachts, promising to combine speed, stability and generous living spaces in a relatively compact package.
With its decidedly contemporary design, this multiyacht focuses on high performance and shallow draft. It incorporates the signature styling of the Ultima range: a sporty silhouette, sharply reverse-raked bows and discreet superstructures featuring reverse-angled forward windows.
Sunreef thus claims to offer the agility of a monohull combined with the comfort and spaciousness of a multihull.
Customization is also a major priority, with each yacht offering extensive possibilities to meet its Owner's expectations. Among the most spectacular features is the Ocean Lounge: thanks to wide fold-down bulwarks and a spacious aft garage, the swim platform extends into a genuine terrace right at water level.
The builder also reports strong international interest in the Ultima 88. At the Cannes Yachting Festival, Francis Lapp mentioned several dozen combined orders for the Ultima 55 and 88.
Technical Specifications
Builder: Sunreef Yachts
Construction: Composite
Length: 87'11" (26.8 m)
Beam: 30'6" (9.3 m)
Powertrain: 2 × 800 hp or hybrid
