Joe Lewis docks £250m yacht in Dartmouth for nearly a month

Joe Lewis, a billionaire and former owner of Tottenham Hotspur, has been residing on his 322-foot superyacht, Aviva, which has been docked in Dartmouth since early August after arriving from Troon, Scotland. The yacht, valued at £250 million, features luxurious amenities including onyx and marble interiors, an office, and a padel tennis court. Local residents have expressed discontent with the yacht's prolonged presence, describing it as an 'absolute eyesore' that feels out of place in the scenic town. The yacht had not been seen in British waters for over a year due to legal issues faced by Lewis, who pleaded guilty to insider trading conspiracy charges in January. Although he faced potential jail time, he received a sentence of three years probation and a $5 million fine instead, attributed to his age and health concerns. This legal backdrop adds a layer of complexity to his current stay in Dartmouth. Residents speculate that Lewis may be in the area for a local regatta, despite the unseasonably rainy weather. Observations indicate that his crew has been active, but there is uncertainty about whether Lewis himself is onboard. The yacht, built in 2017, can accommodate 16 guests and boasts a top speed of 20 knots, along with an eco-friendly hybrid electric propulsion system. The juxtaposition of a billionaire's extravagant yacht against the backdrop of a quaint Devon town raises questions about wealth disparity and the impact of such displays on local communities. As the yacht remains docked, the local sentiment reflects a mix of curiosity and frustration regarding its presence.