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Last Updated: Friday, 17 September, 2004, 11:33 GMT 12:33 UK
World's largest yacht hits rocks
Mirabella V

The world's largest single-masted yacht has run aground on the French Riviera.

The �30m Mirabella V became stranded on rocks on Thursday near the entrance to Beaulieu sur Mer harbour having dragged her anchor in strong winds.

Among the vessels which have gone to her aid is the 86-metre motor yacht Ecstasea owned by Chelsea chairman Roman Abramovich.

The 780-tonne Mirabella V was the last ship to be built at VT's Woolston yard in Southampton.

No-one appears to have been injured in the accident.

A spokesman from the International Boat Industry (IBI) said: "The latest information is that the wind and sea state has dropped and Mirabella V is sitting upright again.

"Some damage has been sustained but the rig is said to be secure.

"The La Ciotat dry dock is standing by to receive Mirabella as soon as she can be recovered."

The yacht set out on its maiden voyage in May from Portsmouth.

It is owned by the former head of car hire firm Avis, Joe Vittoria, who charters it out at a cost of �140,000 a week.

Mirabella V can carry up to 12 passengers with facilities on board including a 600-bottle wine cellar, an outdoor cinema, jacuzzi and dip pool.




SEE ALSO:
World's largest yacht sets sail
30 May 04  |  Hampshire/Dorset
Super yacht set for maiden voyage
20 May 04  |  Hampshire/Dorset
Shipyard's �35m yacht sign-off
26 Nov 03  |  Hampshire/Dorset
Closing shipyard builds �35m 'superyacht'
21 Oct 03  |  Hampshire/Dorset
Ship launch marks Vosper's farewell
14 Jun 03  |  Hampshire/Dorset


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