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Does WhatsApp Founder Have Two Superyachts Named Moonrise?
When you're worth billions, one superyacht might not be enough. Jan Koum, the co-founder of WhatsApp who sold the messaging app to Facebook for $19 billion in 2014, has sparked curiosity with his apparent affection for the name "Moonrise." But does he actually own two superyachts with the same name? The Answer: Not Simultaneously
Jan Koum doesn't operate two yachts named Moonrise at the same time. Instead, he commissioned two different vessels bearing the same name, essentially upgrading from one to the next.
The Original Moonrise was delivered in July 2020 by Dutch shipbuilder Feadship. At 99.95 meters (328 feet), it was valued at around $220 million.
The New Moonrise was delivered in 2025, also by Feadship. This upgraded version measures 101 meters (331 feet) and is valued at approximately $330 million. It features significant technological improvements, particularly in noise reduction and acoustic performance.
Why the Same Name?
Keeping the same name when upgrading to a newer yacht is a long-standing tradition in yachting circles. For Koum, "Moonrise" clearly holds special meaning, though he's remained private about why he chose it.
The differences of 2025 Moonrise
Longer range (6,000 nm vs ~4,500 nm)
Significantly reduced noise and vibration
Fully integrated antenna and Starlink architecture
Larger exterior and beach club areas
Fewer guest cabins (7 instead of 8), prioritizing volume and comfort
As of December 2025, Moonrise has been spotted in St. Barts. The French Caribbean island, located in the northeastern Caribbean, is widely regarded as one of the world’s premier winter destinations for superyachts.
Photo: Feadship Webpage
