Tony Parker Beats Michael Jordan & More as $12.6 Million ‘Unwanted’ Property Wins Royal Honor

When you think of NBA stars and luxury yachts, a few names instantly come to mind. Magic Johnson, who often sails the Mediterranean with his wife Cookie, or Shaquille O’Neal, whose $130 million yacht, Shaqapulco, is a floating palace. And, of course, Michael Jordan, who has been known to cruise in style. But would you have ever guessed Tony Parker? Probably not.

Yet, Parker isn’t just another name in the game—he owns a stunning superyacht called Infinity Nine. In a sea of lavish celebrity yachts, Tony Parker’s Infinity Nine stands out—not for its opulence, but for its groundbreaking eco-friendly design. While MJ’s M’Brace boasts an estimated $115 million price tag and luxurious features like three villas with infinity pools, Parker’s vessel has something that sets it apart: an eco-friendly edge.

Surprisingly, the former San Antonio Spurs star put Infinity Nine on the market for $12.6 million last year. But what seemed like an “unwanted” yacht has now beaten out the biggest names in sports. Fast forward to today, Parker’s yacht has received a royal nod, earning the prestigious SEA Index certification at a special ceremony at the Yacht Club de Monaco. Notably, HSH Prince Albert II himself was in attendance to present the award, which recognizes super-yachts for their commitment to sustainability. It boasts a 3-star environmental rating under the SEA Index system.

Parker, proud of the milestone, shared, “From the design phase, we wanted to build a vessel that combined innovation with respect for the environment. This is the direction that yachting is heading. Everyone should be aware that, if you want to do good for the planet and the ocean, you have to go in that direction. I am very proud, as an ambassador of the Yacht Club de Monaco, to be part of this journey and to receive this recognition. I hope it will help raise awareness and motivate others, so that every boat heads in the right direction.”

USA Today via Reuters

Beyond bragging rights, the certification comes with perks, too. Parker now enjoys discounts on mooring fees in Monaco, priority access in exclusive marinas, insurance benefits, and special crew training courses. The SEA Index, already recognized for its commitment to greener yachting, continues evolving, integrating fuel cell analysis, and working toward reducing other harmful emissions.

Tony Parker’s “unwanted” Infinity Nine

Back in December 2024, Tony Parker made a surprising move—he put his 35-meter superyacht, Infinity Nine, up for sale. The four-time NBA champion and six-time All-Star had only owned the luxury vessel for two years before deciding to part ways with it. With a price tag of $12.6 million, as per Forbes, and as.com reporting it at $15 million, Parker’s decision left many wondering why he was letting go of such a prized possession.

After all, Infinity Nine is no ordinary yacht. The well-maintained explorer vessel, in near-mint condition, can comfortably accommodate 12 guests along with a seven-member crew, making it perfect for hosting lavish gatherings. From spacious double cabins to an extended launch platform for toys and tenders, this yacht is built for both adventure and luxury.

And that’s just the beginning. With a range of 6,000 nautical miles, it’s capable of crossing the Atlantic with ease. Its design prioritizes long-term stays, featuring ample internal storage and generous deck space for sunbathing, relaxing in the jacuzzi, or enjoying music from the DJ booth. Add in a bar and a stylish lounge area, and it’s the ultimate floating retreat.

Unsurprisingly, all this luxury comes at a price. The yacht’s weekly charter rate stands at $126,582—excluding essentials like fuel, docking, and crew tips—while annual maintenance costs hover around $2 million. Despite that, Infinity Nine was fully booked in its debut charter season in 2022. Now, with a royal certification under its belt, what’s next for Parker’s once-“unwanted” yacht? Only time will tell.