Mercedes-Maybach unveils residential superyacht Beyond Horizons (2029)

   December 20, 2025 ,   Cruise Industry

Mercedes-Maybach, a brand historically associated with ultra-luxury automotive design, has disclosed plans to expand into the maritime domain with an exclusive seagoing concept termed the Maybach Ocean Club.

The initiative centres on the newbuild superyacht, Beyond Horizons, conceived in collaboration with yacht specialists Splendid Sea and German naval architects Dölker + Voges. It aims at an invitation-only cohort of co-owners rather than the traditional cruise market.

Beyond Horizons ship's design is based on LOA length ~155 m/~510 ft, a gross tonnage/volume ~15,000 GT tons, and 30 identically appointed residential-style accommodation, each with a private balcony to eliminate hierarchical differences among cabins.

Deck areas extending 4,500 m2/~48,450 ft2 are planned to include expansive sundecks, panoramic lounges and a beach club (Marina Deck platform) with direct access to the sea.

The operational model for the Ocean Club diverges from private yacht ownership and conventional cruising. A community of around 300 co-owners is envisaged, each holding a fractional interest that entitles them to use the vessel for a specified period annually, with ongoing operational responsibilities such as crew management, fuel, port charges and maintenance collectively organised through an annual fee structure. This configuration is designed to alleviate the logistical and financial burden typically associated with superyacht operation while maintaining access to luxury amenities and exclusive itineraries. 

A support vessel of roughly 70 metres is also incorporated into the proposal to handle tenders, watercraft and technical support, allowing Beyond Horizons to remain dedicated to guest experience and social spaces. Design work marries Mercedes-Maybach’s distinct aesthetic with marine architectural principles to produce a profile that balances refined sophistication with seagoing functionality, while public and private spaces are engineered to foster both relaxation and community among members. 

The concept’s development aligns with broader trends in premium travel toward curated, experiential offerings, and the first season for the Ocean Club is targeted for 2029, pending shipyard selection and membership commitments. It proposes a globe-roaming itinerary shaped by seasonal patterns, from Mediterranean summer cruising to winter seasons in the Caribbean, Central America or the Indian Ocean, reflecting the flexible nature of its membership structure rather than fixed cruise schedules.