SS Delphine Spotted At Cannes Yachting Festival 2026

The Historic 1921 Steam Yacht Anchors Among Modern Superyachts

The SS Delphine, a remarkable 78.57 meter motor yacht built by Great Lakes Ew in 1921, was recently spotted at anchor during the Cannes Yachting Festival 2026, where she captured the attention of superyacht enthusiasts and industry professionals alike. The historic vessel, powered by two Great Lakes EW steam reciprocating engines, proved that classic elegance and engineering prowess remain timeless in the modern superyacht world. Her presence at the festival highlighted the enduring appeal of heritage vessels that continue to operate with their original propulsion systems.

With a length of 78.57 meters and a beam of 10.82 meters, the SS Delphine ranks in the top 5 percent by length overall in the world. She was designed by Henry J. Gielow and Antoine Wille, with interior spaces conceived by Georges Marinus and Tiffanys Of New York. The yacht accommodates up to 26 guests across 12 staterooms, supported by a crew of 32. Her steel hull and steel and teak deck construction reflect the robust shipbuilding standards of the early 20th century, while her aluminum and steel superstructure has proven durable across more than a century of service. The vessel’s performance characteristics remain impressive for her age. She achieves a top speed of 13 knots, maintains a cruising speed of 10.5 knots, and boasts a maximum cruising range of 3,000 nautical miles at 9 knots. These specifications demonstrate the engineering sophistication that went into her construction, even by today’s standards. Her gross tonnage of 1,342 GT places her among the larger classic yachts still in active service.

Spotted at Cannes in September 2026, the SS Delphine exemplified the growing appreciation for classic and heritage yachts within the superyacht community. Her presence alongside modern motor yachts and sailing vessels underscored a broader trend: owners and enthusiasts increasingly value the craftsmanship, character, and historical significance of vessels from the early superyacht era. The festival, Europe’s largest boat show, provided the perfect backdrop for this 1921 masterpiece to demonstrate her continued relevance and operational capability.

For those interested in classic yacht ownership and maintenance, Easthope Marine brings specialized expertise in caring for explorer yachts and heritage vessels. The company understands the unique demands of maintaining and operating classic motor yachts, particularly those with steam propulsion systems or other period-specific mechanical systems. Easthope Marine’s vessel management services ensure that historic yachts like the SS Delphine receive the technical attention and preventive care necessary to preserve their operational integrity and historical value. The SS Delphine’s continued presence at major yachting events demonstrates that classic vessels, when properly maintained and managed, can remain competitive attractions in the contemporary superyacht market. Her appearance at Cannes Yachting Festival 2026 reinforced the timeless appeal of thoughtfully preserved maritime heritage.

This article has been sourced from press releases and cross-referenced with multiple websites. Facts originally seen at Source.