These days, one of the most impressive superyachts in the world, Moonrise, sails in the crystal-clear waters of Greece, attracting the attention of locals and tourists.

On board is the co-founder of WhatsApp, Jan Koum, who is enjoying a high-luxury holiday in our country. Indeed, Koum’s nearly 100-meter-long vessel recently anchored in the Corinthian Gulf – where it caught everyone’s eye at Kalamia Beach in Corinth – and was later spotted off Lefkada, confirming that Greece is part of his summer itinerary.

The presence of Moonrise in Greek waters did not go unnoticed, as the ultra-luxurious yacht serves as a symbol of opulence and technological innovation, reflecting the owner’s impressive journey from humble beginnings to the top of the international business elite.

The position of Moonrise between Lefkada and Meganisi

Jan Koum: From Ukraine to billions

Jan Koum was born in 1976 in Kyiv, Ukraine, and his childhood was marked by hardship. At the age of 16, he emigrated with his mother to the United States, where they initially survived on food stamps, while he worked as a cleaner in a grocery store, teaching himself computer programming with second-hand books.

With persistence and a passion for technology, Koum co-founded WhatsApp in 2009 with Brian Acton – a messaging app that changed the way people communicate worldwide and achieved explosive success, reaching hundreds of millions of users in just a few years. In 2014, Koum sold WhatsApp to Facebook (now Meta) for the astronomical sum of $19.3 billion, a deal that catapulted him onto the list of the world’s richest people.

According to Forbes, his personal fortune today is estimated at around $15–17 billion, placing him among the top billionaires globally.

Despite his immense wealth, the 49-year-old Koum is known for keeping a low profile – avoiding the spotlight and focusing on investments in technology and philanthropic initiatives. He is a well-known car enthusiast, with a famous collection of supercars and a particular passion for Porsche and Ferrari models (he is considered one of the most important collectors in the U.S.).

He has the same love for the sea: beyond Moonrise, he owns other luxury yachts, including the support mega-yacht Nebula that accompanies his main vessel, while reports suggest that he has commissioned new yachts for his collection. Moonrise, however, is the flagship of his fleet and the ultimate status symbol in Koum’s lifestyle – a “floating palace” with which he explores cosmopolitan destinations far from prying eyes.

The superyacht Moonrise: 100 meters of floating luxury

Moonrise is among the largest and most advanced superyachts ever built by the renowned Dutch shipyard Feadship. It was launched in 2020 and measures nearly 100 meters in length, ranking among the world’s top vessels of its kind. Its value is estimated to range between $220 and $330 million, depending on the source.

The yacht’s exterior was designed by the Dutch studio De Voogt, while the interior was created by the famous French designer Rémi Tessier, resulting in a vessel that combines elegant aesthetics, cutting-edge technology, and unmatched comfort.

In terms of layout, Moonrise can accommodate up to 16 guests in 8 ultra-luxurious cabins, while providing space for 32 crew members (including the captain), ensuring top-level service at sea. Its amenities rival those of a five-star hotel: the yacht includes a private owner’s deck, a cinema, and a vast sundeck featuring a gym, massage area, and even a hair salon.

On the lower decks there is a luxurious beach club at the water’s edge, while on the upper level there is even a helipad, covering every possible demand of its owner and guests.

Moonrise also stands out for its innovations in maritime technology. Externally, one won’t see the usual large satellite “radar domes,” as the yacht uses integrated Starlink receivers that provide uninterrupted satellite connectivity without disrupting its sleek design lines. Despite its size, it sails almost silently – special design features in the propeller, stabilizers, and anchoring system drastically reduce noise, offering passengers a serene travel experience.

Of course, the yacht boasts spacious decks for outdoor entertainment, a swimming platform, and a garage that houses tenders and a wide range of water toys for sport lovers.

For its voyages, the superyacht is powered by two mighty MTU engines that give it a top speed of around 20 knots, while its impressive range exceeds 4,500 nautical miles, allowing for comfortable transatlantic crossings without refueling.

Accompanying Moonrise is the dedicated support vessel Nebula – a secondary yacht about 60 meters long and valued at around $40 million. It serves as a floating support base, with a hangar for helicopters, extra crew quarters, and storage for equipment, tenders, jet-skis, and every imaginable water toy.

Moonrise itself has received distinctions: in 2021, it was named the best mega-yacht in its category, confirming its reputation as a true “floating palace.”

Jan Koum’s choice to bring his private yacht to Greek waters is far from random. Recent tracking data showed that Moonrise successfully completed trial trips in the North Sea and made its maiden voyage to Norway, while its later presence in Greece suggests Koum’s preference for the picturesque landscapes and privacy offered by Greek destinations.

It is no secret, after all, that in recent years the Greek seas have become a favorite destination for tycoons and their superyachts. Lefkada and the other Ionian islands, with their crystal-clear waters and unparalleled natural beauty, provide the perfect backdrop for personalities like Koum to discreetly enjoy their holidays.