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October 2024: Superyacht Kingdom 5KR Crashes in Tunisia

The superyacht Kingdom 5KR made headlines when it crashed into the quay while maneuvering in the port of Bizerte, Tunisia. The incident occurred during a docking attempt, with reports suggesting that the yacht lost control while approaching the quay. No injuries were reported among the crew or port staff, but the crash caused visible damage to both the vessel and the port infrastructure.

Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic, with port authorities quickly rushing to the scene to assess the damage and secure the area. Initial investigations indicate that a mechanical failure or miscommunication might have led to the unfortunate accident, although a full assessment is still underway. The crash left a noticeable impact on the quay, with some structural repairs expected to be needed in the coming weeks.

The Kingdom 5KR yacht has a storied history that adds to the intrigue surrounding the accident. Originally built as Nabila for Saudi arms dealer Adnan Khashoggi in the late 1970s, the yacht was one of the largest and most luxurious of its time. Following financial troubles faced by Khashoggi, the yacht was sold in 1988 to the Sultan of Brunei, who later passed it on to Donald Trump for USD 29 million. Under Trump’s ownership, the vessel was renamed the Trump Princess, a symbol of his wealth and grandeur during that period.

However, when Donald Trump faced his own financial challenges in the early 1990s, he sold the yacht to Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal in 1991. The yacht was subsequently renamed Kingdom 5KR, a name derived from Prince Al-Waleed’s investment company, Kingdom Holding Company, his lucky number 5, and the initials of his children, ‘K’ and ‘R’. Since then, Kingdom 5KR has remained a prominent feature in the superyacht world, known for its elegant design and storied ownership.

The crash in Bizerte marks a rare public mishap for the iconic vessel, which has otherwise been seen as a symbol of luxury and stability. Local authorities have since cordoned off the affected area of the port while the yacht undergoes inspection and repairs. The incident has sparked discussions about the safety protocols for superyachts navigating crowded ports, especially given the complex systems involved in maneuvering such large vessels.

Despite the crash, there is no indication that Kingdom 5KR will be out of service for an extended period. Experts expect that repairs will be completed promptly, allowing the yacht to continue its travels along the Mediterranean coastline. The accident serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by even the most experienced crews when handling large luxury vessels, especially in busy port settings.

This incident has brought renewed attention to the legacy of Kingdom 5KR, highlighting not only its glamorous history but also the operational difficulties associated with maintaining and maneuvering such a significant piece of maritime history. As repairs get underway, the yacht’s storied past continues to capture the fascination of yachting enthusiasts around the world.