One of the world's most exclusive superyachts has docked in the Northland port of Opua for a two-week stay. Built in Germany in 2020 at an estimated cost of $240 million and named Motor Yacht of the Year in 2021, Artefact is one of the world's largest superyachts by volume. The artifact was joined in the bay on Tuesday by the boutique cruise ship Crystal Symphony, one of a record 93 cruise ships expected this season. The largest ship, Ovation of the Seas, with 4,180 passengers, was scheduled to return on February 12. Wilson said cruise ships play an important role in the economy of the Bay of Islands and Northland, as they bring “fresh money” into the region, rather than money recycled among locals.

Source: Stuff December 19, 2023 18:02 UTC