M/Y Nabila: A Symbol of 1980s Yachting and Its Connection to Italian Yacht Masters

In 1980, Benetti Shipyards launched Nabila, an 86-meter megayacht (the largest in the world at the time) destined to become a legend. Commissioned by Adnan Khashoggi, a Saudi businessman known for his lavish lifestyle, the yacht featured the best naval design of the era: five decks, eleven suites, a nightclub, a cinema for twelve, a counter-current pool, and a helicopter deck. The designer was Jon Bannenberg. At the helm, a young Italian destined to make his mark: Gino Battaglia, now President of Italian Yacht Masters.

Captain Battaglia experienced Nabila’s golden years, sailing between the Mediterranean and the Caribbean, welcoming heads of state, Hollywood stars, and members of the international elite. In an era when yachting was embracing spectacle, Battaglia embodied the discretion, precision, and reliability of the Italian school. Managing the yacht involved a large crew, including his wife Luciana who served as Interior Chief Stewardess, and extremely high-profile guests; a daily challenge met with professionalism and vision.

At a time when the role of the captain was beginning to gain visibility in the international yachting world, Battaglia became a rigorous and authoritative representative of the Italian tradition, navigating through exotic ports, distinguished guests, and complex protocols.

“My most beautiful memory is that of Mr. Khashoggi, a charismatic and generous person, who was always kind to the crew,” said President Battaglia.

When Nabila later passed into the hands of the Sultan of Brunei, then Donald Trump (who renamed her Trump Princess), and finally Saudi Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal (under the name Kingdom 5KR), the vessel changed identity, but its spirit remained that of a masterpiece born in Italy and steered, from the very beginning, by skilled Italian hands.

Today, Kingdom 5KR lies between the Mediterranean and the Persian Gulf, a symbol of an era that redefined the concept of the private yacht. For Italian Yacht Masters, telling her story also means paying tribute to those who, like Captain Battaglia, brought Italian excellence to the world’s seas and now lead a new generation of seafaring professionals.

Credits: https://www.boatinternational.com/yachts/editorial-features/adnan-khashoggi-benetti-yacht-nabila