Steve Jobs’ Yacht Venus Collides with Ricardo Salinas Pliego’s Lady Moura Off Italy

The serene waters off the coast of Italy recently became the stage for a dramatic encounter between two of the world’s most luxurious superyachts. Steve Jobs’ former yacht, Venus, now owned by his widow Laurene Powell Jobs, collided with Lady Moura, a vessel owned by Mexican billionaire Ricardo Salinas Pliego. The incident, which occurred while both yachts were anchored, has generated significant media attention due to the high-profile individuals involved and the opulent nature of the vessels.

The collision was attributed to a sudden change in wind conditions, which saw gusts reaching speeds of up to 55 knots. According to reports, the unexpected wind shift caused Venus to drift into Lady Moura, resulting in a significant impact. Videos circulating on social media captured the moment of the collision, showing the two yachts coming into contact. While the exact details of the cause remain unclear, the incident has sparked a debate over the responsibilities of the crews on both yachts.

Laurene Powell Jobs, who inherited Venus after Steve Jobs’ passing in 2011, was not on board at the time of the collision. Instead, only crew members were present on the yacht. Similarly, Ricardo Salinas Pliego was on board Lady Moura but did not sustain any injuries. The collision, however, has led to accusations from both parties, with Salinas Pliego publicly questioning the actions of Venus’ crew and blaming them for the incident.

Superyacht Times reported that the damage sustained by both yachts was significant and would be costly to repair. While the exact cost of the repairs has not been disclosed, it is expected to run into millions of dollars. Yacht insurance, which can cost six figures per month, is likely to cover the damages, but the incident has highlighted the risks associated with owning and operating such luxurious vessels.

Venus, a 257-foot superyacht, was commissioned by Steve Jobs and designed in collaboration with French architect and decorator Philippe Starck. The yacht, worth $130 million upon completion, was built by top yacht-builder Feadship. Jobs and Starck spent four years working on the design, aiming to create a vessel that maximized silence and incorporated state-of-the-art technology. Starck has described the design process as a ‘philosophical action’ and believes that there will never be another yacht of the same quality as Venus.

Lady Moura, on the other hand, is a 344-foot superyacht that was commissioned in 1990 and was most recently sold for $125 million. Previously owned by a Saudi businessman, the yacht is known for its luxurious amenities, including a helipad and a swimming pool. Ricardo Salinas Pliego, the current owner, is the third richest person in Mexico and owns a variety of companies across different sectors, including banking, telecommunications, and retail.

The incident occurred off the coast of Naples and was captured on camera by Salinas Pliego himself. The video, which was shared on social media, shows Venus drifting towards Lady Moura and eventually making contact. In the video, Salinas Pliego can be heard expressing his frustration and questioning the actions of Venus’ crew. Despite the collision causing only a minor scratch, the repairs are expected to be expensive due to the high value of the yachts.

Both captains met after the incident to discuss the necessary repairs and the steps needed to prevent such occurrences in the future. The collision has prompted discussions within the yachting community about the importance of proper anchoring and the potential dangers posed by sudden changes in weather conditions. The Italian Marina Militare, responsible for maritime safety, has not yet commented on the incident, and the investigation is still ongoing.

The luxurious nature of both yachts and the high-profile status of their owners have made this incident a topic of widespread interest. Media outlets around the world have reported on the collision, drawing attention to the opulence and exclusivity of the superyacht lifestyle. The incident serves as a reminder that even the most meticulously designed and expensive vessels are not immune to the forces of nature and the challenges of maritime navigation.

Laurene Powell Jobs, a philanthropist and investor, has continued to uphold the legacy of her late husband through various initiatives and investments. The collision involving Venus is a rare blemish on an otherwise impeccable record of maintaining one of the world’s most famous yachts. As the investigation continues, the focus remains on ensuring that such incidents are prevented in the future and that the necessary repairs are carried out promptly.

Ricardo Salinas Pliego, known for his business acumen and diverse portfolio, has also faced scrutiny following the collision. His public statements and the video he shared on social media have added to the narrative surrounding the incident. As one of Mexico’s wealthiest individuals, Salinas Pliego’s involvement in the collision has further heightened interest in the story, bringing attention to the world of luxury yachting and the responsibilities that come with owning such valuable assets.

In conclusion, the collision between Steve Jobs’ former yacht Venus and Ricardo Salinas Pliego’s Lady Moura off the coast of Italy has captivated audiences worldwide. The incident, caused by a sudden change in wind conditions, has highlighted the challenges and risks associated with owning and operating superyachts. As the investigation continues and repairs are undertaken, the yachting community will undoubtedly reflect on the lessons learned from this high-profile collision. The story serves as a testament to the enduring allure of luxury yachts and the complexities of navigating the open seas.