The £250 million superyacht 'Aviva', owned by billionaire Joe Lewis, has drawn criticism from locals and tourists in Devon for allegedly blocking picturesque sea views. The 322-foot vessel was docked off the coast near Bovisands, Jennycliff, and Staddon Heights over the Bank Holiday weekend, an area adjacent to popular family resorts like Bovisands Lodge Holiday Park and Cedar Park.
Residents described the yacht as an "eyesore" and expressed frustration over its placement. Sandra Hunter, a visitor from Somerset, questioned why the yacht was parked near a holiday destination for "normal people" during a holiday weekend, suggesting such vessels belong in places like Monaco rather than the "quiet Devon coastline."
Ms. Hunter, who has visited the area for many years, noted that the panoramic sea views, a key reason for her visits, were "hampered" by the yacht. "It was disappointing as it really blocked the views," she stated, adding that Lewis "has the money to go wherever he wants."
The 'Aviva', which Lewis reportedly uses as a "floating home," was custom-built in 2017 and features marble interiors, an office, and a padel court. It arrived earlier in the summer from Gibraltar and has been taking cover behind the Plymouth breakwater.
This is not the first time Lewis's yacht has caused controversy in the area. Approximately two years ago, the 'Aviva' docked in Dartmouth for about a month, leading to similar complaints from locals who described it as a "huge floating gin palace."
Previously, the superyacht was held as collateral by U.S. courts for over a year while Lewis faced insider trading charges. He pleaded guilty in January 2024 to sharing insider information about publicly traded companies. Despite facing a potential 18-month to two-year prison sentence under U.S. sentencing guidelines, Lewis avoided jail time due to his age and medical issues. He received a sentence of three years probation and a $5 million fine.
The 'Aviva' was built in 2017, accommodates 16 people, has a top speed of 20 knots, and is equipped with a hybrid electric propulsion system. Lewis, who was born and raised in the UK, built his fortune through various business ventures, including luxury goods, currency trading, and formerly owning Tottenham Hotspur Football Club until 2022. He later relocated to the Bahamas to avoid higher UK tax rates.