Russian megayacht ships out; next stop Nelson

Megayacht Serene is heading north this afternoon with its next destination listed as Nelson after a week in Auckland.

The 134m long vessel is due to arrive next Monday, suggesting it will spend time cruising offshore along the way.

Visiting superyachts typically spend time in the Bay of Islands while visiting New Zealand.

Serene is owned by Russian vodka baron Yuri Schefler but it is not confirmed he is aboard the vessel.

During its stay in Auckland it Serene attracted considerable public attention while moored at Princes Wharf and some tried to breach tight security to get on board. The vessel can be chartered.

Asia Pacific Superyachts NZ arranged the visit and is providing services for it while it is here. The firm said the $423 million Serene was the biggest superyacht to visit this country.

The vessel is almost 19m wide - slightly wider than a boutique French cruise ship that visited last week. Serene's interior layout sleeps up to 24 guests in 12 cabins with up to 52 crew.

Serene is equipped with with a Eurocopter which regularly flew off its deck during its stay in Auckland.

Superyacht service companies are reporting a very busy summer in the sector that has received a boost from Tourism New Zealand's promotion of luxury here and support from Auckland Tourism Events and Economic Development.