Taking your yacht to the East Cape? If you’re headed to the southern tip of Baja California Sur, you might see a few celebrity-owned yachts.
The resort destination has become a mecca for wealthy travelers, especially those who own luxury sailboats and mega yachts. In addition to exquisite weather and exceptional sport fishing in the Sea of Cortez, the region is exploding with amenities for those who expect nothing but the best when they travel by sea.
Ripe with new restaurants led by world-renowned chefs, seaside residences with ample berths for private vessels up to 250 feet long, and convenient artisanal shopping in places like Marina Village, Los Cabos is a celebrity playground just steps from the water.
Look no further than former and current residents, such as George Clooney, Cindy Crawford, and Sammy Hagar, to find out why the East Cape doesn’t just draw the rich and famous but also keeps them. From Justin Bieber and Floyd Mayweather to Selena Gomez and the “Queen of Cabo” herself, Jennifer Aniston, you’ll discover why you’re likely to be rubbing elbows with well-known faces.
Here are 10 celebrities who have purchased yachts to experience traveling the globe in style.
-
Eric Clapton
In most parts of the world, the musician is known for his voice and guitar skills. But those who follow international boating may be equally impressed by his yachts.
In 2005, Clapton bought a superyacht known as “Va Bene” from its previous owner and had it upgraded in 2008. The redesign was so impressive that the vessel was a finalist for the 2009 World Superyacht’s “Best Refitted Yacht” award.
Clapton also owns a yacht called “Blue Guitar,” with the British Union Jack flag waving proudly. He keeps it ported in London.
-
J.K. Rowling
When actor Johnny Depp sold his classic superyacht Vajoliroja to “Harry Potter” author J.K. Rowling in January 2016, she changed the name to “Amphitrite.” But by September 2016, Rowling was ready to sell. Amphitrite went on the market for $17.5 million and was eventually sold to an anonymous buyer in July 2017.
-
Billy Joel
Even diehard fans of the Long Island “Piano Man” may not know that Billy Joel is also a celebrity yacht designer. In fact, at one point, he owned five yachts, including a 29-meter explorer yacht from luxury boat designer Inace. The vessel, which was originally named “Audacious” but later changed to “Miss Sarah J,” was eventually converted to store some of Joel’s motorcycles.
A smaller, 17-meter yacht designed by Doug Zurn known as “Vendetta” was a favorite of Joel’s for its quick speed. The crooner once reported using the classic gentleman’s commuter vessel to get from his home on Long Island to New York City, where he was performing.
-
Tom Brady
When you’re an NFL legend married to a supermodel, no one is surprised to see you on a yacht. Such is the case for Tom Brady, who bought a 16-meter Wajer 55S after signing a $50 million contract with the Buccaneers. He christened the yacht “Viva a Vida” after the environmental conservation initiative launched by his wife, Gisele Bundchen.
More recently, Brady commissioned a larger Wajer 77 for longer trips and presumably, more guests. With four cabins with ensuite bathrooms, a standing height of up to 7’9”, and a 400 nautical mile range, the Wajer 77 costs around $6 million.
-
David Beckham
When former England soccer star David Beckham bought a 28-meter Riva Argo 90, he launched it under the name “Seven,” taken from his soccer jersey. The twin diesel engines can get the yacht up to 30 knots and the foredeck’s sun lounge makes for a truly enviable view.
-
Roberto Cavalli
If you follow fashion, you won’t be shocked to see that designer Roberto Cavalli owns one of the most unique yachts on the planet. Inspired by the iconic Batmobile, Cavalli’s 27-meter, sleek black “Freedom” includes tinted windows and animal-print furnishings. The vessel can reach up to 40 knots, thanks to its three water-jet engines.
-
Conor McGregor
No one is surprised that a UFC fighter would jump at the chance to own the new Tecnomar For Lamborghini 63 yacht. The 19.2-meter crossover vessel combines the same materials from the Lamborghini supercar and the sleek hull of a speedboat, in gold, of course.
Nicknamed “the Supercar of the Sea,” the $3.5 million motor yacht is rumored to be decked out with up to half a million dollars in customization, largely featuring his Proper Twelve brand.
-
Diane von Furstenberg
Another well-known fashion designer to invest in the joys of yachting is Diane von Furstenburg. In 2009, von Furstenberg purchased the Eos, a 93-meter sailing yacht, with her husband IAC Chairman Barry Diller. With accommodations for 16 guests and 21 crew members, the schooner has been able to host multiple groups, including plenty of famous faces.
-
Richard Branson
It only makes sense that a man who owns an exclusive Caribbean island would purchase a yacht to get him there. Branson bought a 32-meter catamaran superyacht and named it “Necker Belle” after his British Virgin Island paradise, Necker Island.
With plenty of room for guests to sleep on board, as well as a huge sundeck and a bevy of water toys, the yacht certainly makes for a good party. But it’s worth noticing that Branson also loaned the vessel out after hurricanes Irma and Maria to help those affected by the storms.
-
Tony Parker
In 2020, NBA superstar Tony Park received his steel and aluminum 35-meter Kando 110 series yacht, Infinity, from AvA Yacht. Chosen by his wife, the four-decked vessel can accommodate 12 guests in six cabins, as well as six crew members. The separate captain’s double cabin is a standout feature, for even the most luxurious yacht enthusiasts.
If you’ve been toying with the idea of purchasing a yacht, consider chartering different types on your trips to help narrow down your wants and needs.
Already have a yacht? You may want to consider investing in a second (or third) residence on the East Cape. Start by talking to a luxury real estate consultant at Costa Palmas. The resort offers a semi-private, full-service port that can accommodate more than 200 motor yachts, sailboats, and fishing vessels—up to 250 feet long—in its new marina, just steps from the backyard of the resort’s custom residences.