Mystery red superyacht Akula turns heads in La Herradura

A striking red superyacht that looks more like an ocean-going research vessel than a luxury yacht has caught the attention of holidaymakers after dropping anchor in La Herradura.

The 59-metre Akula arrived in the bay on Monday, August 10, after sailing from the port of Malaga, giving beachgoers an unexpected glimpse of one of the world’s most unusual luxury expedition yachts.

Its blunt red bow and rugged exterior make Akula difficult to mistake for a conventional Mediterranean superyacht. Designed for long-range exploration, the vessel can travel to some of the world’s most demanding waters while providing the sort of luxury normally associated with private yachts.

Akula superyacht arrives in La Herradura

Akula was built by Italian shipyard Rossinavi and launched in 2023 before being delivered in 2024. At 59.4 metres long, it was the shipyard’s first expedition yacht and was developed for owners wanting to travel far beyond the usual cruising grounds.

A steel hull and aluminium superstructure give the yacht its tough appearance, while its Ice Class design allows it to operate in cold and challenging waters. Diesel-electric propulsion gives Akula a cruising speed of 12 knots and a range of more than 8,000 nautical miles.

Price estimates for the vessel have put its construction cost at around $95 million, although that figure is not confirmed by Rossinavi or the yacht itself.

Luxury inside the unusual explorer yacht

Looks can be deceptive, because the rugged exterior gives way to a highly luxurious interior. Akula can accommodate up to 10 guests in five suites, according to its current specifications, with space for a crew of up to 13.

Facilities include a gym, sauna and swimming pool, while the yacht also has equipment designed for serious expeditions. A mini-submarine can be carried on board, and the ship has laboratory and workshop facilities for scientific work.

FM Architettura was responsible for the interior design, using natural materials and detailed finishes to create a much softer atmosphere inside the steel vessel.

From Gibraltar to La Herradura

Akula’s arrival provides another spectacular sight for people spending time around La Herradura Bay, where large private vessels regularly attract attention during the summer months.

Recent marine activity has also brought increased attention to the waters around La Herradura and the nearby protected coastal area of Maro-Cerro Gordo. Guardia Civil officers recently reported enforcement action against jet ski riders operating illegally in the protected zone.

For visitors on the beach, however, Akula offers a rather different kind of spectacle. With its red steel hull, expedition equipment and imposing profile, the yacht looks ready to head towards the Arctic rather than spend a Mediterranean summer afternoon off the Granada coast.