Built by Lürssen and delivered in 2010, Katara remains one of the world's largest privately owned yachts and has long been associated with one of Qatar's most influential leaders.
A Defining Figure in Modern Qatar
The Amiri Diwan of Qatar announced the death of Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani on 12 July 2026. Widely regarded as the architect of modern Qatar, he served as Emir from 1995 until voluntarily handing power to his son, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, in 2013 - an uncommon transition among Gulf monarchies. During his 18-year reign, Qatar developed into one of the world's leading exporters of liquefied natural gas while expanding its global influence through diplomacy, investment, media, and sport.
His leadership oversaw the launch of Al Jazeera, significant international investments through Qatar's sovereign wealth fund, and the country's successful bid to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Even after stepping down, Sheikh Hamad remained an influential figure within Qatar and was frequently seen at major national events alongside the current Emir.
A Landmark Yacht Within the YB100
Among Sheikh Hamad's best-known private assets was Katara, a yacht that has become one of the defining vessels of the modern global superyacht fleet.
According to YachtBuyer's YB100 rankings, Katara currently sits at No. 27 by gross tonnage, with an internal volume of 7,922 GT, making her one of the world's largest yachts. She has remained in that position for almost six years while also spending more than 15 years in the traditional ranking in the Top100 of the world's longest yachts.
At 124.4 meters in length, she remains one of the most recognizable vessels launched by Lürssen during the past two decades.
A Collaboration of Renowned Designers
Katara was built by Lürssen with naval architecture developed in-house, while her exterior styling came from renowned designer Espen Øino. Her interiors were created by Alberto Pinto, whose classic design approach is reflected throughout the yacht's traditionally styled living spaces.
Øino's distinctive design introduced several features that would later appear on other landmark Lürssen projects, including her raked bow and sweeping clamshell-style aft decks. The yacht's exterior also prioritizes privacy, with carefully sheltered outdoor spaces befitting a vessel intended for royal use.
Designed for Royal Hospitality
While only a limited number of interior photographs have been released publicly, the motor yacht is understood to feature traditional finishes with marble, warm wood, and gold detailing throughout. Guest amenities include a beach club, spa, gym, elevator, swimming pool, deck jacuzzi, helipad, tender garage, and extensive wellness facilities. Katara accommodates up to 34 guests across 18 suites, supported by a crew of 95.
Power comes from twin MTU 20V 1163 M94 diesel engines producing almost 20,000 horsepower. The yacht reaches a top speed of 20 knots, cruises comfortably at 15 knots, and offers a range of approximately 5,000 nautical miles while carrying 500,000 liters of fuel.
Katara's launch came during a period that saw the German builder reinforce its position at the very top of the custom superyacht market. Since Katara's delivery, Lürssen has gone on to complete some of the industry's largest and most technically ambitious yachts, including the world's biggest yacht by gross tonnage - Dilbar, Hadar (ex Flying Fox), and Luminance, many of them also featuring exterior designs by Espen Øino.
A Lasting Legacy
Beyond her scale, Katara has become closely associated with a period of extraordinary growth in both Qatar's international profile and the wider superyacht market. More than 15 years after entering service, the yacht remains one of the largest privately owned vessels afloat and a permanent fixture within YachtBuyer's YB100 rankings, serving as a lasting reminder of the former Emir's global influence and enduring connection to the world of superyachts.
For the superyacht industry, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani's passing represents the loss of one of the most prominent owners of the modern era.
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