From Casino Mogul to Superyacht Sales: Tilman Fertitta Lists ‘Boardwalk’ for $192 Million

• Golden Nugget owner selling mega yacht to make room for another, bigger boat
• The yacht for sale is 252 feet and will be replaced by a 384-foot vessel

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The Tilman Fertitta yacht, known as the Boardwalk, is now on the market for an astonishing $192 million. Ambassador Tilman Fertitta, a titan of the industry known for his massive empire of world-class casinos, is making waves in the waters of luxury by putting his beautiful 252-foot superyacht, the “Boardwalk,” up for sale at an asking price of $192 million. Much like the high-stakes excitement found within his premier casinos, the billionaires decision to upgrade to a larger 384-foot vessel further showcases his legendary penchant for extravagance.

The name “Boardwalk” does not refer to the famed Atlantic City Boardwalk, which houses one of Fertitta’s Golden Nugget casinos. Instead, it derives from the Kemah Boardwalk, a prominent tourist hotspot owned by Fertitta in Texas. The sale of this Dutch-built superyacht will be finalized at the illustrious Monaco Yacht Show, where potential bidders can admire its grandeur.

According to the broker, the Boardwalk showcases exceptional naval architecture and exterior design from De Voogt. Its innovative layout includes a spacious forward tender garage on the main deck, capable of accommodating two luxurious tenders. This makes it a perfect combination of practicality and style.

This impressive vessel can host up to 14 guests and 22 crew members across its seven cabins, including extravagant VIP suites. Its amenities include a helipad, pool, and spa, all maintained in immaculate condition. Interesting to note, the original owner was the US ambassador to Italy and San Marino.

The Affinity for Luxurious Yachts

Fertitta is renowned for his love of lavish yachts, and it’s well-known that he resided on the Boardwalk for several months prior to relocating to Villa Taverna, the official residence of the US ambassador to Italy. However, he is not just making moves in the realm of luxury; Fertitta has utilised his yachts for financial leverage as well. His disclosures indicate he secured a $50 million yacht loan from Bank of America in 2019 and another similar loan from Deutsche Bank in 2024. With a net worth estimated at $10.5 billion, he certainly has the means to manage these obligations.

Fertitta’s financial portfolio is equally impressive, featuring major assets like Fertitta Entertainment and stakes in both Wynn Resorts (NASDAQ: WYNN) and DraftKings (NASDAQ: DKNG), the latter secured through the acquisition of Golden Nugget Online Gaming (GNOG) in 2022.

Amid his ambassadorial duties in Italy, he remains detached from the daily managerial tasks of his entertainment empire that includes the Golden Nugget casinos.

Family Ties in the Yacht Industry

Luxury in the Fertitta family extends beyond Tilman. His relative, Frank Fertitta III, previously owned the stunning $175 million yacht, the Viva, crafted by Feadship, which was sold to billionaire hedge fund manager Ken Griffin. Tilman himself currently possesses another iteration of the Viva, measuring an impressive 308 feet and valued at $250 million.

This story exemplifies the intersection of lifestyle, wealth, and the unique affinity billionaires have for opulent vessels. For many, these yachts are not just modes of transport; they are symbols and tools of their stature in society.

Summary

Tilman Fertitta’s decision to list the Boardwalk for such a hefty price tag reflects both his lavish lifestyle and his intent to upgrade to an even more grandiose vessel. With its remarkable features and amenities, the Boardwalk stands as a testament to the luxuries that come with significant wealth. As the sailing world watches, it’s evident that this auction will attract noteworthy bidders, each drawn by the promise of opulence and the allure of maritime luxury.