Koru: Feadship superyacht Azteca relaunched and renamed following two-year rebuild

The 49.9-metre Feadship superyacht Azteca has been relaunched and renamed Koru following an extensive, two-year rebuild with Ocean Technical.

The superyacht was designed by Jon Bannenberg for Mexican billionaire and media mogul Emilio Azcárraga, alongside her sistership, Paraiso. The design would reportedly go on to influence Emilio Azcárraga's most renowned yacht, the 74.5-metre Blohm + Voss, Eco (now Zeus).

"[Paraiso and Azteca] looked as if they had sailed in from another galaxy," Dickie Bannenberg once told BOAT International. "To say that they caused a sensation at the time is probably an understatement. The glass-roofed solarium on the top deck and the snug, forward-facing observation saloon were years ahead of their time."

Koru arrived at the Aykin Marina & Shipyard in February 2022 and was relaunched in April 2024. Initial imagery reveals a contemporary redesign of her veranda-style forewindows, as well as an exterior repaint, from white to navy with white detailing. 

Other major works included lengthening the stern by 3.2 metres and a completely new transom and sundeck, with the latter created by removing the original roof structure. While full details are yet to be disclosed, Koru's interiors have also been entirely overhauled – including the conversion of her original television lounge, found on the main deck, into an additional guest cabin.

"We have refitted several of Jon Bannenberg's yachts so we understand the quirks in his designs," said Dale Barker, director at Ocean Technical. "We wanted to retain the Bannenberg feel but bring it to a modern day where it is more practical and usable – whilst retaining the respect to Jon."

All technical systems have also been refitted, including a major overhaul on the main engines.

Koru will soon be available for sale.