The Walton family, known for their immense wealth as heirs to the Walmart empire, exemplifies opulence in every aspect. Here we take a quick look at two of their most prized possessions – the mega yachts Aquila and Kaos.
Above: The megayacht Aquila. Image courtesy of Burgess Yachts.
AQUILA
Ann Walton Kroenke opted to transform their family yacht, Aquila, into an extraordinary mega-machine with a staggering price tag of $150 million instead of selling it for a newer toy.
Not only does Aquila offer opulence, but it is also a capable cruiser with twin MTU diesel engines, providing a maximum range of 5000 nautical miles and a top speed of 17 knots (19.5 mph). According to Boat International, Ann Walton and her husband Stan Kroenke (owner of the NFL’s Los Angeles Rams, the NHL’s Colorado Avalanche, and the Denver Nuggets of the NBA) purchased Aquila in 2015 and immediately embarked on an extensive refit.
The refit, carried out by Pendennis shipyard in Spain, spanned 18 months and earned Aquila the prestigious 2017 World Superyacht Award for ‘Best Refitted Yacht.’ The extensive renovations introduced a multitude of ultra-luxurious features. Highlights include an actual bar appropriately named ‘The London Bar,’ a nightclub equipped with smoke machines, a sophisticated lighting system, and a DJ booth. Additionally, a complete movie theater and a magnificent 36-foot waterwall chandelier that cascades down all four decks of the yacht were added.
Aquila also offers a range of premium amenities such as two massage rooms, a fully-equipped gym, a hair salon, office space, and a jacuzzi. The master suite boasts its own private deck spanning 645 sq ft. The yacht can accommodate up to 12 guests in six guest cabins, while remarkably providing ample space for a crew of 28.
For those of you looking to live that Walmart heiress life, the Aquila is currently available for charter at the rate of a cool $1 million per week.
AQUILA Specifications:
Length (LOA): 280’8″
Beam: 47′
Draft: 13′
Weight: 2,998 GT
Hull Material: Steel
Accommodations: 12 guests in 7 cabins, 28 crew
Propulsion: Twin MTU Diesel Engines
KAOS
The megayacht owned by Nancy Walton Laurie, the billionaire businesswoman and heiress of Walmart, boasts an astonishing price tag of $300 million. This colossal vessel, measuring an impressive 361 feet in length, shares a remarkable similarity with stealth warships—it operates with utmost silence. Acquired from the Qatar royal family, the yacht is a true testament to opulence, featuring the largest amount of marble and stone ever installed on a yacht.
https://youtube.com/watch?v=wf9Xq55WKNs%3Ffeature%3Doembed%26enablejsapi%3D1%26origin%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.yachtworld.com
Upon its unveiling in 2017 under the name “Jubilee,” the yacht now affectionately renamed Kaos proudly claimed the title of the largest yacht in the Netherlands at that time. Boasting a fitting moniker of a “floating island,” this magnificent vessel caught the attention of Nancy Walton Laurie, the billionaire heiress of Walmart, who acquired it in 2019.
The magnificent Oceanco vessel has a voluminous capacity of 4,523 GT, and this opulent creation designed by Lobanov Design on the outside and Sam Sorgiovanni Designs P/L on the inside truly lives up to its reputation as the king of the yachting world. Powered by two MTU diesel engines, it reaches a top speed of 18.5 knots. However, such grandeur and performance come at a price, as the annual maintenance alone costs the American businesswoman Nancy Walton an impressive $20-$30 million.
Interestingly, the superstructure of Kaos features an eye-catching metallic blue hue, adorned with multiple decks, most of which are cleverly designed to enhance its aesthetic appeal. To create a sense of harmony and balance, the designer employed faux decks, giving the impression that Kaos glides effortlessly through the waves.
The fly deck, for instance, has been transformed into a serene owner’s suite, offering absolute solace and breathtaking views from a private terrace. With 16 cabins accommodating up to 31 guests, this royal commissioned yacht spares no expense when it comes to luxury. From a spacious helideck to an expansive beach club featuring a wellness center, gym, and spa, as well as a lavish pool, cinema, and various lounge areas across the decks, Kaos provides the epitome of indulgence.
Rumors have been circulating about an intriguing feature hidden within the vessel—an oversized aquarium discreetly tucked away, adding an air of mystery to the already captivating experience onboard. Kaos is also a great playground for water enthusiasts, offering an array of watercraft stored in a well-equipped tender garage, with a fold-down transom providing effortless access to the sparkling waters below. Equipped with a fleet of matching tenders, rescue boats, inflatables, and other exciting gear, Kaos ensures endless entertainment and adventure.
KAOS Specifications:
LENGTH: 361’3″
BEAM: 53’10”
DRAFT: 14’5″
GROSS TONNAGE: 4,523 GT
BUILDER: Oceanco
EXTERIOR DESIGNER: Lobanov Design
INTERIOR DESIGN: Sam Sorgiovanni, Reymond Langton Design
BUILT | REFIT: 2017 | 2020
CRUISING SPEED: 15 Knots
TOP SPEED: 18.5 Knots
PROPULSION: Twin Diesel MTU 4,828hp Engines
ACCOMMODATIONS: 31 guests in 15 suites, 2 staff cabins, and 46 crew
