Lionel Messi, the Argentine football icon, is expanding his off-pitch empire with a new maritime venture. The Inter Miami star has commissioned a custom 88-foot luxury catamaran from Sunreef Yachts, a builder known for pushing the boundaries of multihull design. The vessel is currently under construction at Sunreef's shipyard in the United Arab Emirates, and it's already turning heads for one standout feature.
The Ultima 88's signature is its fold-down side platforms. When lowered, these bulwarks open directly over the water, transforming the stern into a sprawling private deck that feels like a personal beach club. It's a design that blurs the line between yacht and ocean, giving Messi and his guests a seamless way to swim, sunbathe, or simply enjoy the sea breeze with unobstructed views.
An Ocean Lounge That Redefines Luxury
Sunreef calls this the Ocean Lounge concept, and it's the heart of the Ultima 88's appeal. By expanding the usable deck space over the water, the catamaran offers a level of connection to the sea that traditional yachts can't match. The fold-down platforms are engineered for stability at anchor, so whether Messi is hosting friends or enjoying a quiet afternoon with family, the experience is both luxurious and secure.
Performance-wise, the Ultima 88 doesn't disappoint. Twin 1,000-horsepower engines deliver impressive speeds, while the interior layout includes four guest staterooms, a full-beam master suite, a jet ski garage, an elevated flybridge lounge, and even space for fitness equipment. It's a floating retreat designed for both relaxation and adventure.
This isn't just a personal toy, though. The yacht will join the MIM Ocean charter fleet, a partnership between Messi's MIM Hotels brand and Med Cat Yachts, operating in the Balearic Islands. That means fans with deep pockets could one day charter the same vessel that carries the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner's name. It's a savvy move that ties into Messi's growing quiet luxury empire beyond the pitch.
Messi joins a select group of athletes in the Sunreef family, including Rafael Nadal, Fernando Alonso, and Robert Lewandowski. Sunreef's founder and CEO, Francis Lapp, welcomed Messi, emphasizing that marine freedom is the ultimate expression of modern luxury. Founded in 2002, the shipyard has made sustainability a core part of its mission, with electric propulsion and integrated solar technology leading its innovation strategy.
For Messi, this yacht is more than a status symbol. It's a statement about how he chooses to spend his time off the field—surrounded by family, friends, and the open sea. And with the charter component, it's also a smart business move that extends his brand into the world of high-end travel.
As Messi continues to make waves in MLS—his record-breaking salary already dwarfs the league median—this new vessel adds another layer to his legacy. Whether he's cruising the Mediterranean or hosting a sunset gathering off the coast of Mallorca, the Ultima 88 ensures he does it in style.
For Latino fans who've followed Messi from Rosario to Barcelona, Paris, and now Miami, this news is a reminder that his influence extends far beyond the pitch. It's a testament to his success, his taste, and his ability to turn even a luxury purchase into a cultural moment.
