The Yacht that Launched a Royal Honeymoon
Prince Rainier III and Princess Grace's honeymoon yacht, Deo Juvante II, has a rich history that includes multiple owners, numerous names, impressive guests, world travel, and rescue missions. This legendary vessel stands as a symbol of luxury with a connection to one of history’s most iconic couples.
Sailing into action
Originally built in 1928 at Camper & Nicholsons’ British shipyard, the 147ft vessel was named Monica, after the daughter of her first owner, an Argentinian entrepreneur. A few years later, she was baptized Rion by her new Greek proprietor before being bought and enlisted in World War II by the Royal Navy. As HMS Rion, her luxurious interiors were outfitted with weaponry, and she sailed into action. The HMS Rion’s most critical role came when she rescued hundreds of British soldiers trapped on the beaches of Dunkirk. After suffering a few blows, she was briefly decommissioned but soon returned as HMS Noir, where she functioned as a hospital ship until the end of the war. In 1945, she was decommissioned, restored, and available for private ownership.
A royal honeymoon yacht
In 1947, the yacht was acquired by Greek shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis who restored it to her original opulence. Onassis renamed her Arion and added her to his charter fleet, which included his famous superyacht, the Christina O, named after his daughter. In 1956, he gifted Arion to Prince Rainier III and Princess Grace as a wedding present, marking the yacht’s transformation into a royal vessel.
Moored in the picturesque waters of the Mediterranean, the yacht was christened the Deo Juvante II, a name that resonated with the House of Grimaldi's motto, “With God's Help.” This elegant motor yacht served as a private sanctuary for the royal couple during their honeymoon, offering them a secluded escape as they explored the coastlines of Corsica, Sardinia, and the French Riviera, enveloped in the tranquility and privacy of the open sea.
Charting new waters
The Deo Juvante II played a significant role in the early years of the royal couple's marriage, providing them with a retreat to spend time with friends and family. While the yacht eventually changed ownership, it never lost its allure. With nearly a century of maritime history, the Deo Juvante II was rediscovered and meticulously restored to its former luxury, boasting teak decking, custom leather seating, and hand-crafted wooden fittings. Renamed Grace, she now offers her opulence for private charter, inviting guests to explore the Galápagos Islands in style.
This historic yacht, once a honeymoon haven for Monaco's royal family, remains a testament to an era of luxury, romance, adventure, and legacy. As Grace, she embodies the serenity, glamour, and dignity of the iconic princess she was named after.
Shop Grace de Monaco for Fragrances, Home Accents, and Accessories inspired by the timeless beauty of the Mediterranean.
