Louis Vuitton Sets Sail

Maybe Louis Vuitton knows something we don't. The Hedgies are running for the hills, iBankers are packing up their desks and clicking their Gucci heels out the door, and the Dow is getting whacked. Yet the luxury giant, who's parent company LVMH also owns about every delectable champagne known to man (as well as Givenchy, Thomas Pink, Fendi, TAG Huer, and DeBeers) is investing even more into the high-end market. You can now add yachts that list. And not just ordinary yachts, but mega-yachts.

LVMH recently acquired Royal Van Lent, a high-end Dutch custom yachtmaker. “This acquisition is an outstanding opportunity for LVMH to welcome to the group as prestigious a business as Royal Van Lent, which is well-established in the ultra-luxury market,” said LV’s Antonio Belloni. “We are confident about its growth potential in the exclusive mega-yacht sector, a market with sustainable growth prospects.” Founded 160 years ago, Royal van Lent’s yachts boast an ultra-exclusive clientele list; they mainly design and produces boats 60 feet and bigger. Being a boat guy, I’m curious what the SS Louis Vuitton would look like. Leather everywhere, and “LV” splashed on the hull? At least Kanye West will be excited he finally has somewhere to blow up his yacht budget.