Mike Lazaridis, the founder of Blackberry, is the owner of an extraordinary floating masterpiece: Artefact, a 262-foot superyacht that combines luxury, innovation, and his deep passion for science. Valued at $150 million, this motor yacht is more than just a lavish vessel; it’s a showcase of advanced design, high-tech engineering, and artistic elegance.
One of the yacht’s most unique features is its dedicated Tai Chi room, designed with an added ceiling height to allow for sword practices. The room is just one of the many spaces on board that reflect Lazaridis’ personal tastes. The owner’s deck includes a panoramic office and a crafts room, mirroring the comforts of his home. Art, both modern and traditional, is integrated into the design, including Su embroidery in various spaces, showcasing Lazaridis’ love for fine craftsmanship.
In the main lounge, visitors are greeted by a striking armillary sphere, a tribute to Lazaridis’ fascination with science and astronomy. The sphere serves as a nod to the historical instrument, symbolizing the transition of human understanding of the cosmos. Lazaridis explained that armillary spheres became simpler after humans realized that the Earth was not the center of the universe.
A centerpiece of the yacht is the “Cosmic Table” – a futuristic 14-seat dining table, inspired by the stars. This unique creation is made of steel and composite materials, adorned with bronze planets and resin satellites. Laser-cut metalized inlays trace the movement of celestial bodies, making this space an awe-inspiring fusion of art and science. The chandelier above the table mirrors the solar system, lighting up in sync with the planets’ orbits.
The yacht’s exterior design, created by Gregory C. Marshall, is equally impressive, featuring 8,073 square feet of glass that weigh 70 tons. The innovative design blends the interior and exterior seamlessly, creating a harmonious balance between acoustics, volume, and aesthetics.
Beyond the aesthetics, Artefact is built for ultimate comfort and functionality. It accommodates 16 guests in 8 cabins and is equipped with luxury amenities like a movie theatre, beauty salon, gym, and a spacious lounge. The yacht is powered by twin diesel-electric Caterpillar engines, allowing it to cruise at 15 knots with a maximum speed of 17 knots.
Artefact is the culmination of years of effort, designed after Lazaridis and his family enjoyed the marvels of yachting on holiday. It stands as a testament to his deep appreciation for both art and technology, while providing a luxurious, innovative experience for its owner and guests.
Mike Lazaridis, the 62-year-old billionaire, is best known for his role in the creation of Blackberry. Born in Istanbul and raised in Canada, Lazaridis co-founded the company that revolutionized mobile communication with the introduction of the BlackBerry device in 1999. After stepping down from the company in 2012, Lazaridis now focuses on his investment firm, Quantum Valley Investments, and dedicates his time to philanthropy and education.
