J.K. Rowling's 89-meter superyacht, the $150 million 'Samsara,' has been docked in Marina del Rey, Los Angeles, for the past week. The vessel is undergoing repairs and maintenance, including painting and teak deck replacement, according to an anonymous marina source. The yacht's name is covered by a white tarp, a measure reportedly taken to maintain a low profile and deter potential protestors concerned about the author's views on transgender issues.
While the superyacht is equipped with amenities such as a circular pool, a movie theater, and a beach club, Rowling herself is not on board, the source confirmed. The yacht is scheduled to depart on September 15. The vessel was noted by Instagram users and other commentators who suggested the name covering is a common practice for the yacht, especially when its owner's public statements have drawn controversy.
The 'Samsara' spans 292 feet and was built in 2015 by Oceanco. It was previously known as 'Infinity' under its first owner, Harbor Freight Tools CEO Eric Smidt, before being sold to Australian billionaire Brett Blundy in 2022 and subsequently to Rowling in 2023. The yacht can accommodate up to 12 guests and 26 crew members.
Rowling, author of the best-selling 'Harry Potter' series, has previously been involved in public discussions regarding her views. In 2025, she shared a selfie from her vessel following a U.S. Supreme Court decision on the definition of a woman based on biological sex.