How the 37m Norfolk Star went from expert racer to luxury world cruiser

As soon as the current owner purchased Norfolk Star (ex. Khalessi) in 2018, the historical sailing yacht was to be filled with the whole family and a new adventure was to begin. But first, he invested in a multi-million dollar refit.

Completed in 2020, the work involved the yacht's five-year Lloyd's survey and the repainting of her hull, which has gone from a dark blue colour to striking bottle green. As a British businessman and a keen yachtsman, the owner had always dreamed of owning a Perini Navi, and his opportunity came when Norfolk Star (ex. Khalessi) was on show at the Monaco Yacht Show in 2018. “And there she was – a lovely 37 metre Perini Navi. The rest is history,” he said. 

As well as a new main engine, the owner added two new generators and a Williams 505 tender. A variety of the yacht’s systems were also upgraded to include a PLC system, Inmarsat VSAT dome, Doyle sails and Reckmann rigging. As soon as the work was completed, the owner set off in the direction of the Caribbean to fully enjoy the yacht with her brand new furnishings and freshly sanded teak decks.

Now listed for sale with Burgess, Norfolk Star has been transformed into a luxurious modern version of a classic sailing yacht. Still with a fresh cherry wood finish, the interiors are lightened by plush cream carpets and soft furnishings, with grey-veined white marble in the bathrooms and large portholes along the hull to bring in streams of natural light. 

Her two bright interior saloons have been designed so that time inside the yacht is relaxing and enjoyable while underway. Fitted with a cosy seating area, an office space and enough windows to grant panoramic views, the upper saloon is connected to the main saloon via a grand stairway. Here, guests will find more sofas and a formal dining area formed by a rich walnut table.

Those who like to be out on deck while sailing can do so in the shelter of the yacht’s main cockpit. Designed to be split into two areas – one for seating and one for dining – the cockpit can ensure everyone on board can collectively feel the thrill of being under sail. “On board I like the silence and the sound of the wind in the sails, and I’ve noticed that I feel much safer on a sailing boat than on a motor yacht,” said the current owner.

Another unique trait of Norfolk Star is her history, which began back in 1987 when a British entrepreneur wanted to sail the world. As an experienced yachtsman, the owner chose to rely on the expertise of Perini Navi and interior designer Bruce Farr to design and build a brand-new 36.8-metre superyacht. In 1996, the completed schooner was handed over to her owner under the name of Salperton.

The yacht, with her original dark navy hull, go-faster red stripe and crisp white superstructure and sails, was home to her first owner for many years. She was a force to be reckoned with on the race track and competed regularly. Regattas such as the Perini Navi Cup were her chosen competitions, and in 2013, she secured first place in Perini Navi’s Class B race.

When not occupied by her racing crew or cruising with her owner, the yacht, known as Northern Spirit between 2000 and 2015 and Khaleesi from 2015 to 2018, was available for charter in many of the world’s yachting hotspots – one being the Great Lakes of North America. As Captain Damien Dempsey recalls, in the summer of 2014, the area offered “spectacular sailing with flat water and optimum 15 to 20-knot winds.”

Having been home at sea to families, small groups and solo sailors alike, Norfolk Star's layout of three guest cabins is perfect for six guests, including the owner, who has a dedicated full-width private master stateroom to the aft of the yacht. This glamorous space is completed by a walk-in wardrobe, ensuite bathroom with a bathtub and a separate study area. Next door, two twin cabins, both with ensuite shower rooms, can sleep another four guests. In case there is one more overnight guest, one of the rooms features an additional Pullman berth.

To keep her guests entertained, Norfolk Star is home to an impressive toy store featuring a tender, water skis, windsurfs, kayaks, inflatables and fishing gear. And for the businessmen and women on board, her office and internet service can keep the yacht in touch with work commitments back on land. All these features and more is why time spent on board Norfolk Star is said to “capture the true essence of sailing and combined with the luxury of a world-class hotel”. 

Available for viewings in Valencia, Spain, Norfolk Star is for sale with her brokers Burgess. For more information and prices, visit the Burgess website directly here.

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