J.K. Rowling's $150 million superyacht Samsara docks in Marina del Rey under concealed name

A massive 290-foot superyacht has been spotted in Marina del Rey, Los Angeles, and identified as the private vessel of “Harry Potter” author J.K. Rowling, who named it Samsara. The yacht, originally delivered in 2015 as Infinity by Dutch builder Oceanco, was concealed with its name covered shortly after arrival, a practice that broker Chris Cecil-Wright says is uncommon but sometimes used by famous owners to protect privacy.

The ship can host 12 guests and a crew of 26, and includes a circular pool, cinema and beach club, according to SuperYachtFan. Valued at roughly $150 million with operating expenses up to $15 million a year, it was first owned by businessman Eric Smidt, later sold to Australian billionaire Brett Blundy, and changed hands to Rowling in 2023. While the owner has not made a public appearance, the yacht’s presence highlights the lengths wealthy individuals go to maintain seclusion. Experts note that disabling AIS or hiding hull markings are tactics used to keep a vessel’s movements undisclosed.