Devon locals hit out at billionaire as £200million super yacht blocks views at holiday hotspot

Devon locals have expressed frustration over billionaire Joe Lewis’s £200 million super yacht, Aviva, which has reportedly obstructed scenic views at a popular holiday spot near Plymouth. The massive vessel, docked off the coast of Devon, has drawn criticism from residents and tourists alike, with some calling it an unsightly intrusion in a serene coastal setting. The yacht, measuring 98.4 meters, has been stationed behind the Plymouth breakwater throughout the recent Bank Holiday weekend. It was spotted in the vicinity of Bovisands, Jennycliff, and Staddon Heights within Plymouth Sound. These areas are adjacent to two holiday parks, Bovisands Lodge Holiday Park, featuring static caravans, and Cedar Park, housing smaller holiday homes. Locals and visitors have noted how the presence of the yacht has disrupted the picturesque views that draw many to the region. Sandra Hunter, a resident of Bridgwater, Somerset, shared her disappointment with the situation. She described the area as a “hidden gem” in Devon, emphasizing its beauty and the importance of unobstructed ocean vistas for holidaymakers. Hunter, who has visited the location annually, stated that the yacht’s placement has significantly impacted their experience. “This trip has been hampered though by a billionaire who has decided to park his mega yacht just off the cove,” she remarked. “It was disappointing as it really blocked the views.” Joe Lewis, a billionaire known for his wealth derived from the Tavistock Group investment portfolio, previously held a majority stake in ENIC Group, the parent company of Tottenham Hotspur Football Club. His ownership of the football club ended in 2022. The Aviva was constructed in 2017 by the German shipbuilder Abeking & Rasmussen and is registered in the Cayman Islands. Designed by Reymond Langton, the yacht reflects the high-end specifications typical of such luxury vessels. Residents have voiced concerns over the yacht's long-term presence in the area. Some argue that such a large vessel should be reserved for more exclusive locations, such as Monaco, rather than being moored in a family-friendly resort area. One local suggested that the yacht might be better suited for the Mediterranean, implying that its current location is inappropriate for the surrounding community. The issue has sparked discussions among both locals and tourists, highlighting the growing tension between private wealth and public spaces. While some appreciate the economic benefits that high-profile individuals can bring, others stress the need to preserve the aesthetic and recreational value of these coastal areas. As the debate continues, the future positioning of the Aviva remains uncertain, with calls for either relocation or increased regulation regarding the use of such vessels in residential and tourist zones.