Summer is approaching, and while many of us are scrambling to fit back into last year’s swimsuits, the wealthy are prepping their yachts for the season. Just as Mercadona signals the Christmas festivities with its nougat, the sight of Amancio Ortega sailing aboard his yacht Value B marks the unofficial start of summer in Galicia.
As reported by Vigo Lighthouse, the 90-year-old billionaire has taken advantage of the recent warm weather to be seen enjoying time on his yacht with his wife, Flora Pérez, and a select group of friends. This weekend getaway refreshes the summer tradition that centers around the Value B.
A Summer That Begins in Aldán
The ritualistic image of the Value B gracefully gliding through the Rías Baixas signals the start of Ortega’s summer. This excursion launched from the Aldán estuary in Cangas, a frequented spot for the Ortega family, known for its small ports and tranquil surroundings that many deem the quietest corners of the Galician coast.
According to El Mundo, Ortega anchored his yacht in front of the Aldán dock, near the former Ameixide canning factory, a familiar setting for his discreet escapades.
The Value B was expertly crafted by the Dutch shipbuilder Feadship in 2018, a company known for building luxury yachts. This vessel succeeded Ortega’s previous yacht, the Drizzle, which he sold for a significant sum. Designed for navigation along the Spanish coastline, the Value B features a classic profile with three decks and five main cabins, making it perfect for short family retreats.
Measuring 47.3 meters in length, the yacht accommodates a crew of nine, offering a cruising range of 4,000 nautical miles at a maximum speed of 14.5 knots. While it’s not intended for long voyages, it allows for comfortable, discreet sailing through the Galician coast while enjoying the local beaches and cuisine.
His earlier yacht, Drizzle, was 67 meters long, making it challenging to dock in smaller Galician ports that Ortega frequently visits during summer.
Discreet Yet Luxurious
While Ortega maintains a low profile and doesn’t flaunt his wealth, the Value B embodies several hallmarks of high-end yachts.
He purchased the yacht for approximately 30 million euros and has chosen Sanxenxo as its homeport. The spacious decks allow for panoramic views of the Galician coast, maximizing the outdoor experience.
Crafted with rich woods and luxurious fabrics, the main decks invite socializing among friends and family. Additionally, the Value B boasts an expansive swim platform at the stern for easy water access, making it ideal for various water sports. Guests can enjoy an impressive array of water toys, such as jet skis, paddle boards, and snorkeling equipment.
The name Value B is a tribute to Valoria la Buena (Valladolid), the birthplace of Ortega’s mother. It also pays homage to the earlier Valoria yacht that the family owned, symbolizing a continuity that ties Ortega’s summer experiences back to his roots in Galicia.
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Image | Feadship, GTRES