Lionel Messi has commissioned a Sunreef Ultima 88, the largest catamaran in the Ultima range that the Polish shipyard Sunreef Yachts builds at its facilities in the United Arab Emirates, according to the German newspaper Bild. The operation would place the price of the vessel between 8 and 9 million euros, a figure that neither the company nor the footballer have confirmed.
The unit will join MIM Ocean, the charter fleet based in the Balearic Islands that Messi is developing with Med Cat Yachts, although the Argentine also plans to use it on his own.
A 28.40-meter model with a design between monohull and multihull
Presented as a concept in 2023, the Ultima 88 is the largest model in a family consisting of six units. The first hull was launched last April and others are under construction. According to the shipyard, the design combines the agility of a monohull with the stability, ample living spaces, and shallow draft of a multihull.
The vessel, built in composite, measures 28.40 meters in overall length and 9.30 meters in beam. Both the design and naval architecture are handled by Sunreef Yachts itself, which highlights aerodynamic lines and an optimized hull geometry to improve performance and maneuverability, as well as facilitate access to marinas and secluded anchorages.
Master suite with sauna and common areas designed for comfort
Inside, the master suite spans the entire beam of the boat and includes a private sauna. The accommodation is completed with four guest cabins, while the social areas prioritize luminosity and layouts designed to maximize available space.
The firm identifies the Ocean Lounge as a hallmark. When anchored, the fold-down bulwarks and a large aft garage create a perimeter area next to the water, designed for both relaxation and water sports. In this space, the boat has a specific garage for jet skis, a large aft platform, custom sea stairs, and storage for water toys. On deck, the flybridge and spacious outdoor areas allow for socializing, relaxing, or exercising outdoors.
The Ultima 88 can be configured with high-performance propulsion or with a hybrid system that allows for silent electric navigation. Planned options include ultralight, thin, and flexible solar panels, as well as a hydrofoil alternative. The technical sheet includes a 6,000-liter fuel tank and batteries between 22 kW and 75 kW. In the case of the unit commissioned by Messi, the boat will be fitted with two 1,000 hp engines each, about 1,014 CV, which according to Sunreef will offer "a perfect combination of speed and maneuverability."
Messi joins the list of Sunreef ambassadors
The Argentine footballer's commission places him alongside a list of brand clients and ambassadors that includes Rafael Nadal, Carlos Alcaraz, Fernando Alonso, Nico Rosberg, Mike Horn, and Robert Lewandowski. The tennis player is also awaiting his own Ultima 88.
"It is a real pleasure to join the Sunreef family," Lionel Messi said in a statement. "I am very much looking forward to experiencing the Ultima 88 and enjoying it with my family," added the Argentine player.
