When it comes to possessions owned by celebrities, the prevalent principle often appears to be “bigger is better.” The more opulent the superyacht, the more prominent the celebrity; the more personalized the private jet, the grander the car collection, the more extravagant the mansion – all of these enhance a celebrity’s image and public allure.
While this might be true for most public figures, Johnny Depp was always an unconventional celebrity. At the zenith of his career, he ranked as Hollywood’s highest-paid star, amassing a fortune surpassing $900 million. However, this wealth has dwindled to around $100 million – $150 million at most. His financial decline was influenced by various factors, including his tumultuous marriage to Amber Heard, her allegations of domestic abuse against him, and his extravagant lifestyle, which included a staggering monthly expense of $500,000 solely on wine.
During his heyday as Disney’s beloved pirate and the ultimate heartthrob, Johnny Depp also owned one of the most renowned celebrity-owned vessels, Vajoliroja. This motoryacht was often described as a fusion of a gypsy caravan, an Art Deco luxury hotel, and the most exquisite private railway car. Its distinction didn’t arise from its size, extravagant amenities, or exorbitant cost. Instead, it was celebrated because it encapsulated everything one would expect from a Johnny Depp vessel.
Unfortunately, Vajoliroja is no longer in Depp’s possession. In 2016, he was compelled to sell it as part of a strategy to avert bankruptcy after extensive consultations with his advisors. The decision weighed heavily on him, as revealed in the ongoing Depp vs. Heard defamation lawsuit. Understanding the context surrounding this motoryacht makes his sorrow over parting with it more comprehensible.
Delivered by Proteksan Turquoise Yachts in 2001, Vajoliroja boasts a steel hull, an aluminum, GRP, and teak superstructure, and exudes distinctive 1920s steampunk aesthetics. Before Depp’s ownership, it bore the name Anatolia and was already on the market when the actor decided to invest in a yacht. While many celebrities opt for new vessels, Depp was drawn to the pre-owned market, seeking a vessel with character.
Anatolia initially caught his attention, but its size fell short of his expectations. At 156 feet (47.5 meters), spanning three decks and offering accommodations for 10 guests and nine crew members, it seemed small compared to the long-range explorers he had considered. However, Depp saw beyond its size and acquired Anatolia sight-unseen for an undisclosed sum.
Following the purchase, Depp enlisted Tanju Kalaycioglu for naval architecture and LM Pagano for interior styling. In a 2007 refit, the original interior by Redman Whiteley was replaced by a lavish, pirate-themed design conceived by LM Pagano in close collaboration with Depp. Renamed Vajoliroja, the motoryacht paid homage to family members Vanessa, Johnny, Lily-Rose, and Jack. The refit reportedly cost over $7 million, contributing to the estimated total cost of the yacht at around $30 million.
After Depp’s wedding to Amber Heard, the yacht was renamed Amphitrite, a nod to the sea goddess and wife of Poseidon in Greek mythology. In 2016, J.K. Rowling, enchanted by its interior, purchased the yacht for a reported sum between $24 million and $28.9 million. Yet, less than a year later, she listed it for just over $19 million. The current owner, believed to be a businessman, has renamed it Arriva and retains exclusive use of the vessel.
Remarkably, the distinctive LM Pagano interior that defines this yacht’s character remains intact. The interior boasts opulent materials like crushed Italian velvet, silk, and jacquard, as well as custom oxidized patterned leather, globally sourced antiques, plush chenille wall coverings, hand-painted feathered trims, and 24-karat gold accents as furniture embellishments. Initially overwhelming, the design garnered praise for its collaboration between Depp and the design team.
Each cabin features an en-suite bathroom, and while not overly spacious, compensates with lavish decor and personalized touches. The cabins even have their custom stationery with a pirate-inspired font, commissioned by Depp. While Vajoliroja doesn’t boast a helipad, pool, or jacuzzi, it does offer a spacious sheltered dining area aft and a cozy sun deck. Additional amenities encompass an indoor dining hall, a private cinema, and an array of water toys, including a custom Riva-style tender situated at the bow.
Propelled by two upgraded Caterpillar diesel engines, the ex-Vajoliroja attains top speeds of 13.5 knots (approximately 15.5 mph or 25 kph) and boasts a cruising range of 2,300 nautical miles (equivalent to 2,647 miles or 4,269 km). During Depp’s ownership, the yacht was often available for charter, priced at an average of $130,000 per week, plus expenses. This arrangement allowed Rowling to experience the yacht and ultimately led her to acquire it.
As Johnny Depp once quipped, “Money doesn’t buy you happiness, but it buys you a big enough yacht to sail right up to it.” Today, Vajoliroja Arriva serves as someone else’s vessel to that blissful haven.