Lionel Messi invests in luxury yacht charter market

Football star Lionel Messi is expanding his business portfolio by entering the luxury yacht charter market. Sunreef Yachts confirmed that the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner has commissioned a custom Sunreef ULTIMA 88 catamaran, which is currently under construction at the company's facilities in Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates.

The vessel, measuring 26.8 meters in length, has an estimated market value of 10 million euros. It features two 2,000-horsepower engines, five suites, a private beach club, and a garage for jet skis. The yacht is designed for both personal use and commercial operations.

Upon delivery, the catamaran will join the MIM Ocean fleet, which is linked to Messi's business interests in the Balearic Islands, Spain. The vessel is expected to be available for private charters at a rate of 130,000 euros per week, reflecting the athlete's move to capitalize on the high-end maritime travel industry.