Everyone needs a luxury yacht vacation, even royalty.
And the world’s sweetheart and “The People’s Princess,” Princess Diana (Princess of Wales) was no different, when life ashore got too much for her due to global interest in her personal life….
In the summer of 1997, she stepped aboard the superyacht Sokar (known as Jonikal at the time) with new love Dodi Fayed (son of Egyptian billionaire, ex Harrods owner Mohamed Al-Fayed) – the pair had been involved from July, despite Dodi’s engagement model to American model Kelly Fisher.
She is seen getting on board Sokar in St. Tropez above, later checking out the yacht’s huge sundeck. The 207ft (63m) luxury yacht was built in 1989 (refitted in 1999) and its traditionally styled throughout, with accommodation for up to 12 guests. A crew of 22 people cater to guests’ every need, with amazing amenities including a helipad, jacuzzi and the latest entertainment systems.
Dodi’s father sold the yacht to an unknown buyer in 2014 for $13 million, after being for sale for several years.
The family yacht provided a much-needed getaway from the fallout of the end of Diana’s 15-year marriage to Prince Charles, which officially ended on 28 August 1996. The couple visited the glamorous sights of the French and Italian Riviera over 9 days.
Sadly she died in a car crash with Dodi in Paris on 31st August 1997.
Explore pictures of Princess Diana and Dodi’s yacht Sokar here.
