1902 CUSTOM AILSA SHIPBUILDING IN ITALIA

Madiz is one of a few yachts to have survived from the early 20th century, and arguably there is no other yacht of this size, age, and original standing remaining. Madiz was built in 1902 by Ailsa Shipbuilding in Troon, Scotland, and at 55.4m is the largest classic motor yacht currently listed for sale. Madiz can also claim the title of the oldest vessel in operation to have Lloyd’s classification. Originally commissioned by James Coates Jnr, from his friend and now legendary yacht designer G L. Watson, Madiz was intended as something of a mothership or support boat to Coates’ sizable schooner-rigged sailing yacht. With the outbreak of World War I, Madiz was taken by the Royal Navy and she served in the Auxiliary Patrol Service. The vessel was returned to pleasure yachting in 1920 and passed through the hands of several British yachtsmen. But it was not long before she was again called to naval service. Post-World War II, the yacht was acquired by the Hon. John North, second son of the 8th Earl of Guilford and with Madiz, he headed for the Mediterranean In 1968, North decided to sell the yacht and she was laid up in Piraeus until she inspired Greek businessman Costas Keletsekis to become her owner. Keletsekis equipped Madiz with new engines and refitted the boat in 2003 to bring her back into class with Lloyds Register 40 years later, in 2010, Madiz was acquired by her current owners and has been lovingly cared for as an icon of classic yachting style. Whilst she has evolved somewhat over her incredible 120-year history, many original features remain Today, this steel-hulled motor yacht is powered by two Mercedes 250Hp engines and has accommodation for 14 guests in seven cabins. Madiz typically runs with a crew of 10 and is served by a 6m Riva Superflorida tender as well as a 6m classic launch.