RICHARD IRONWORKS
The 95-foot (29m) LA FENICE is more than just a yacht; it’s a marvel of design and engineering, steeped in yachting heritage. Originally commissioned in 1962 by financier Anthony Boyden, she was crafted by Richard Ironworks and designed by the esteemed Laurent Giles Naval Architects to support Boyden’s 12-meter challenger in the 1964 America’s Cup. The goal was clear: create a comfortable and seaworthy vessel capable of crossing the Atlantic and making its way to Australia under its own power.
In the mid-1980s, LA FENICE served the French Navy as a training ship until she was acquired in 2001 by famed photographer Peter Lindbergh. Following this, a significant refit took place, with the design expertise of Christian Liaigre from 2005 to 2016. His vision, particularly evident in the 2015/2016 refit, seamlessly blended modern style with classic elegance, showcasing dark wood floors, sophisticated paneling, and leather accents. The open-plan layout creates a light-filled atmosphere, connecting the yacht’s interior spaces effortlessly.
In 2020, LA FENICE was purchased by her current owner and returned to the UK in 2021 for an extensive refit, completed in 2023. Now expertly restored, she stands as a testament to meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail.
The exterior, designed by Laurent Giles and built by Richards Ironworks, boasts a rugged, explorer-style classic yacht aesthetic. The aft deck features comfortable seating with easy access to the swim platform and the main deck salon.
Step inside, and you’ll discover a harmonious blend of modern aesthetics and traditional charm. Dark wood flooring and leather paneling create a cohesive and inviting space, enhancing the yacht’s spacious open layout that connects various living areas.
LA FENICE accommodates nine guests in four en-suite staterooms, comprised of three doubles and one triple stateroom, complete with a double bed and a Pullman berth—perfect for families. Each stateroom maintains the timeless style and elegance found throughout the yacht, with rich woods and neutral color palettes fostering a serene atmosphere reminiscent of classic cruising.
Additionally, LA FENICE carries a professional crew of four in three crew cabins, ensuring every need is met.
The spacious flybridge offers an outdoor dining area and a large sunpad, ideal for soaking up the sun and unwinding. All outdoor spaces can be shaded upon request, ensuring comfort in any setting.
A true masterpiece of engineering and design, the 29m LA FENICE is not just a yacht; she’s a piece of yachting history.
Originally crafted in 1962 by Richard Ironworks and designed by Laurent Giles Naval Architects, she was commissioned by financier Anthony Boyden. Her primary role? To support Sovereign, his 12-meter challenger for the 1964 America’s Cup. Boyden needed a comfortable, seaworthy vessel capable of crossing the Atlantic and sailing to Australia under her own power.
In the mid-1980s, LA FENICE transitioned to a training vessel for the French Navy. In 2001, she caught the eye of renowned photographer Peter Lindbergh, who oversaw a significant refit. From 2005 to 2016, Christian Liaigre infused modern aesthetics into her interiors during a major renovation in 2015/2016, achieving a harmonious blend of contemporary style and classic charm with dark wood flooring, paneling, and leather accents. The open-plan layout enhances the spacious feel, creating a seamless connection throughout the yacht.
The current owner acquired her in 2020 and returned her to the UK in 2021, embarking on an extensive refit from 2021 to 2023. LA FENICE has been expertly restored, reflecting the discerning taste of her owner.
