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As Far As You Can Sea: World’s Largest Superyachts

Multimillion-dollar mega yachts.

by Emma Treagus Updated on May 22, 2024

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With onboard swimming pools, cinemas, helicopter landing pads, and spas, the world’s largest superyachts have more facilities than your ‘average’ five-star hotel.

Owned by some of the world’s wealthiest people—along with a few anonymous owners who’d prefer to keep their luxury transport a secret—these mega yachts redefine the word “boat” into something indescribably sleek, stylish, and seriously impressive. 

If superyachts are your thing, you’ll want to read on for all the facts and figures on all of the largest yachts in the world.

The 26 largest yachts in the world

Multimillion-dollar mega yachts: Our ranking methodology

A superyacht or mega yacht is typically a motor yacht or sailing yacht with a length of 30 meters (100 feet) or more. For this ranking, we looked at the superyachts and luxury expedition mega yachts that are used privately or made available for charter. We excluded so-called ‘residential superyachts’ (think Njord and The World), which are essentially luxury apartment buildings at sea where people own private residences inside the superyacht rather than the whole yacht. By researching diverse, reliable sources like Wikipedia and the Superyacht Times, we compile a list of the largest yachts in the world.

Curious about other striking superlatives? Check our round-up of the most expensive cars in the world and the most expensive private jets in the world . They are both perfectly good alternatives to owning a yacht. And if you prefer to stay home, we’ve ranked the biggest homes and the most expensive houses in the world to give you some inspiration too.

26. Y721 (aka Koru) | 417 feet—127m

Ever wonder where Jeff Bezos spends his downtime? As of today, we’re predicting it to be on his $500 million superyacht. Y721—nicknamed Koru—is 127m long. And featuring three sky-high slender masts, Koru is said to be the largest sailing yacht in the world . 

With dark exteriors and natural wooden decks, Koru is inspired by another one of Bezos’ yachts—the Black Pearl. The clean lines and classically curved bow speak to an understated elegance despite the yacht’s mammoth size. While a long line of portals indicates at least 9 guest cabins. In light of all the secrecy surrounding Koru, we doubt Bezos will ever charter her out, but we can still dream.

25. Al Mirqab | 436 feet—133m

Adorned with cascading chandeliers and gold accents, Al Mirqab is renowned for its unrivaled interiors. Surrounded by suspended glass artworks, a grand staircase floats throughout the four floors. And inspired by authentic Arabian styles, the magnificent superyacht is reminiscent of a magic carpet ride through the seas . 

Built for the former Prime Minister of Qatar, Peterswerft-Kusch spared no expense in delivering Al Mirqab to an impossibly high standard for luxury. The large swimming pool is a standout feature as it opens up into the sea, creating the ultimate playground for adults. Al Mirqab has a capacity for up to 60 guests and is manned by an equal number of crew. Although you have to be invited by the politician himself as Al Mirqab isn’t available for private charter.

24. Serene | 439 feet—134m

Adeptly named, the magnificent superyacht embodies the serenity of a life at sea. Serene was built in Italy for a Russian owner in 2011. She was leased to Bill Gates for the Summer in 2014 for $5 million per week. 

Designed by Reymond Langton, the 134m mega yacht marries elegant sophistication with state-of-the-art technologies. The seven decks leave ample space for guests to soak in scintillating views. While the underwater viewing room—nicknamed the Nemo room—is a permanent gallery of resplendent sealife. The real-life snow room makes up to four inches of snow. And whilst this may seem odd when your billionaire boss asks for snow—you make it snow.

23. Crescent | 445 feet – 136 m

Yet another Lurssen masterpiece, Crescent pays homage to classic naval designs with traditional architecture and elegant interiors. Formerly named Project Thunder, she was built in Germany and delivered to Igor Sechin in 2018. The Russian oligarch’s superyacht was seized by Spain after sanctions were placed on Russia in 2022. 

Crescent features low bulwarks and full-height windows to maximize the view from the center of the boat. Her distinctive wing station provides unrivaled views for up to 18 guests. But don’t get your hopes up—Crescent is strictly for private use only and isn’t available for charter. 

22. Savarona | 446 feet – 136m

Savarona is the second-largest yacht built by Blohm & Voss and spends most of her time in the Mediterranean. This luxury superyacht is one of the oldest in the market — a perfect fusion of traditional charm and modern facilities. 

Previously named Gunes Dil, Savarona was designed by Cox & Stevens, with interior design carefully handled by Donald Starkey. She’s available to charter on a weekly basis and has been refurbished over the years. Back in the day, her cost price was $4 million, and in 1989, she was chartered by Kahraman Sadikoglu, owner of the Turkish Sadikoglu Group, who spent an estimated $50 million on refurbishing her from top to bottom.

21. Flying Fox | 446 feet – 136m

Flying Fox is known as the most expensive charter yacht in the world , and a week aboard will set you back around $3 million. Chartered by the one and only power couple Beyonce and Jay-Z in 2021, it’s filled to the brim with all of the luxury facilities you could ever possibly want. 

The Flying Fox is rumored to be owned by Jeff Bezos, although that’s a claim that’s never been totally certified. She spends most of her time in the Mediterranean, specifically Cannes, Capri, and Sardinia, although she’s recently visited Norway, too. She can accommodate the largest helicopters on the market, and it reportedly took more than 50 meetings with her owner for interior design to be completed.

20. Rising Sun | 454 feet – 138m

The Rising Sun’s original owner, Larry Ellison, CEO of Oracle Corporation, sold her in 2010 as he considered her too large. Famously used by David Geffen for self-isolation, Rising Sun has also been a popular hang-out spot for celebrities like Oprah Winfrey and Beatrice, the Princess of York. 

She’s a Superyacht with impressive attention to detail like interiors kitted out in teak and onyx and endless features like a full gym, a large wine cellar, a sauna, and a spa. She’s got a full-size basketball court that doubles up as a helicopter landing pad and a private cinema for those long evenings spent at sea.

19. Al Salamah | 457 feet – 139m

Al Salamah is part of the Omani Royal fleet and started her very secretive life in Genoa. Known as the world’s biggest superyacht right up until 2016, she’s a sleek masterpiece of a ship, with a distinctive cream color and beach club design. 

Al Salamah does everything in multiples, from the five galleys onboard (the main galley, a bakery, a crew galley, an owner’s diet galley, and an Arab galley), three hospitals (one for the owner, one for guests, and one for the crew) and 2,000 sqm of floor space. She was put on sale briefly for $280 million USD, before being delisted and instead given as a gift to the Crown Prince of Bahrain. 

18. Solaris | 458 feet – 139m

Everything about Solaris was supposed to be kept a secret when she was being built—a secret that didn’t last long when her huge size was spotted undergoing sea trials in the North Sea. One of this Superyacht’s main attractions is her beach club on the top floor: the perfect spot for relaxation during those long days out at sea. 

That beach club comes complemented with endless other stylish amenities, like a large helipad, sun deck, and a crane to launch tenders, toys, and subs. Interior design is largely unknown, but, if it’s anything as sleek and white as its exteriors, it’s sure to be impressive.

17. Scheherazade | 459 feet – 140m

Two helicopter landing pads, two outdoor Jacuzzis, and two outdoor fire pits: Scheherazade doesn’t hold back with not only the essentials but also the luxuries. Previously named Lightning, “Scheherazade” is mostly associated with a female character in the Middle Eastern folk tales in the series One Thousand and One Nights. 

Not much is known about this superyacht, and even her birth and building process were referred to under a codename: Project Lightning. No one involved in her creation, even Lurssen, has revealed anything about her interiors or her owner. All that’s really known is that she sailed from Germany to Norway initially after completion. 

16. Ocean Victory | 460 feet – 140m

Ocean Victory has traveled all over the world, from Europe to Southeast Asia and back again. Owned by Russian billionaire Viktor Rashnikov, she’s the upgraded vessel to follow his purchase of the 76-meter Ebony Shine. 

She’s one designed with pure luxury in mind, from the six individual swimming pools onboard to the 300-square meter spa area. She’s beautiful both inside and out, with a unique concept designed by Espen Oeino and interior designer Alberto Pinto. The largest superyacht ever built in Italy, Ocean Victory shows some of the finest in the world when it comes to premium quality adventures at sea.

15. Yas | 463 feet – 141m

Yas is known best for its seamless and rather unusual design — one that’s a little different from most superyachts out there. The owner of Yas wanted a yacht that lived up to his own heritage; one with a backbone reminiscent of the navy and with abstract lines throughout. 

He chose an existing boat in Abu Dhabi, which was deconstructed within the region before being shipped off and renovated into the wonder that it is today. The Yas yacht was originally a Dutch navy frigate, which you’d never guess from strolling around onboard today.

14. Nord | 465 feet – 142m

Nord’s distinctive bow design has never been seen before on a yacht. That’s one of the first things you’ll notice about her. The next thing you’ll notice is her unusual design, which verges on battle-esque and has been called “ a warship wearing a tuxedo ” by Dan Lenard of the Italian design studio Nuvolari-Lenard. 

She’s one of the best superyachts out there for fun, with a sports and diving center on the lower deck, a swimming pool higher up, overlooking the ocean, and a fleet of tenders. She was designed for global exploration: a yacht that will calmly cruise her way all across the world.

13. Sailing Yacht A | 469 feet—142.8m

Challenging the status quo and pushing design boundaries, Sailing Yacht A is an enigma. The sail-assisted superyacht was built in Germany and delivered to Russian tycoon Andrey Melnichenko in 2017. However, she was seized by the Italian police force, Guardia di Finanza, in 2022 after sanctions were placed on Russian businessmen following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. 

Distinguished by soaring rotating carbon fiber masts, Nobiskrug’s hybrid approach to superyachts makes Sailing Yacht A more eco-conscious than other luxury yachts of her size. The u nderwater viewing pod molded into the keel speaks to her unrivaled innovation. And many balconies are enclosed by some of the largest pieces of curved glass ever made. 

12. El Mahrousa | 478 feet – 146m

El Mahrousa had a few different names in her time, ranging from the translated “The Protected” to El Horreya, which in Arabic translates to “Freedom.” It’s not surprising that she’s had more than one name when you take into account her age. As the oldest superyacht in the world, she’s undergone a lot of restoration over time, including multiple lengthenings and faster engines. 

She was renamed back to El Mahrousa in 2000 and gained even more recognition for being the first ship to cross the new Suez Canal extension in 2015. Back in her original days, she was built on the River Thames and took her first trip in 1867.

11. OK | 479 feet—146m

Delivered in Japan in 1982, OK is one of the largest and most unique superyachts in the world. Sprawling over 479 feet, the water giant is engineered to submerge almost seventy percent. This is accredited to the work done by Karmarine Shipyard. While the majority of the vessel was built by Oshima Shipping, it was privately converted to a semi-submersible yacht in Turkey. 

The superlative finishing on OK superyacht was designed by Timur Bozca, winner of the Younger Designer of the Year award in 2015. The blueprint being as many games as possible. The extraordinary vessel has the uncanny ability to hold over seventy toys, including a sailing yacht, a sea plane, tenders, buggies and even a tennis court.

10. Opera | 480 feet—146.4m 

Like many of the most majestic water titans, Opera was delivered by Lurssen in Germany and built for Abu Dhabi royalty. This time, the owner is Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, son of the founder of the United Arab Emirates. And while it may not be quite as astronomical as Lurssen’s previous builds—Azzam, Blue and Dilbar—the streamlined vessel is equally impressive onboard. 

The three-story superyacht proves large enough for a pair of helipads and two swimming pools, amongst many other toys, while simultaneously making room for up to 48 guests and 80 crew members. When it comes to the interior, details are sparse, but we do know that it was designed by Terence Disdale, a London firm renowned for creating bespoke luxury spaces. 

9. Prince Abdulaziz | 482 feet – 147m

The Prince Abdulaziz’s yacht was ordered by King Fahd, who named her after his son Prince Abdul Aziz. Now, she’s owned by his brother, Abdullah. Just one of the yachts owned by the Saudi royal family, she’s spotted frequently throughout Europe, especially in Cannes, where the royal family owns a property. 

She’s been redecorated once — in 2007 — in a project that took 15 months to complete, without even taking into account the rest of the ship’s upkeep. The Prince Abdulaziz is known for its combination of bold colors and fusion of traditional and modern design, thanks to its influence from the late David Hicks.

8. A+ | 483 feet – 147m

What do you do when the name “A” is already taken for your superyacht? Choose the next closest thing: A+. Previously named Topaz, this superyacht was the world’s fourth-largest luxury yacht when she was built, before being stripped of that particular title only a few years later. 

Nevertheless, she’s a seriously impressive superyacht, with endless facilities like a large jacuzzi, double helicopter landing pads, a swimming pool with a swimming platform and underwater lights, as well as a fitness hall, cinema, and a large conference room. She’s also well equipped with water toys, like jet skis, inflatable boats, a catamaran, and even a mini-submarine.

7. Al Said | 508 feet – 155m

Another Superyacht built, shrouded in secrecy, Al-Said was referred to as “Project Sunflower” the entire time she was being created, right up until she was delivered to her owner in 2008. Not much is known about Al Said, from her movements through to her amenities — although she is known to have a huge concert room with space for a full 50-person orchestra. 

Currently, she’s flying the flag of Oman and has spent a lot of time in its surrounding waters. Her interior was styled by British designer design house RWD, with exterior design being credited to Espen Oeino. When she was delivered to the Sultan of Oman, she replaced a previous ship of a smaller size. 

6. Dilbar | 511 feet – 156m

Dilbar, or Project Omar, as it was originally known as, is another superyacht designed with the help of exterior expert Espen Oeino, but with interiors strikingly designed by Andrew Winch. Dilbar is famously known as the world’s largest yacht by gross tonnage (interior volume) but as the fifth-longest superyacht in the world. 

She’s home to a spa pool and beach club, as well as a large private cinema, spacious cabins set high on the main deck, a spacious dining room, and a salon with its own piano. She’s just as classy and beautiful on the inside as she is on the outside.

5. Blue | 527 feet—160.6m

Sunday blues simply cease to exist on one of the world’s most extravagant superyachts. The elegant behemoth was built for member of the ruling family of Abu Dhabi and billionaire, Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan in 2022. Valued at over $600 million, Blue is one of the most expensive superyachts in the world. And with a strong emphasis on the environment, this superyacht is also one of the most sustainable. 

Blue strives to be as environmentally friendly as possible. She is equipped with a highly efficient Diesel-Electric Hybrid Propulsion Concept developed by Lürssen’s own engineering specialists. And the wastewater treatment plant allows water to be disposed of in drinking water quality.

4. Dubai | 531 feet – 162m

Dubai had multiple names in the planning stages—including Panhandle, Platinum, and Golden Star. Owned by the ruler of Dubai, it was aptly named after its home country and comes with all of the luxurious amenities you’d expect from such a name. 

The Dubai comes complete with a huge swimming pool and two jacuzzis. Further down, you’ll find a large dining room with striking blue and burgundy decor and space for up to 90 guests. Dubai usually spends her time moored at Sheikh Mohammed’s private island in front of his summer palace in Dubai. She’s basically the definition of a floating palace.

3. Eclipse | 533 feet – 162.5m

It took around five years for Eclipse to be built from start to finish. While she was always designed to be a huge, luxurious Superyacht, the focus was more on decking it out appropriately rather than breaking any records. An award-winning superyacht, she’s incredibly spacious, with endless rooms to explore and a sleek, neutral color palette running through. 

The Eclipse’s owner, Roman Abramovich, was more focused on facilities: he wanted more than one helicopter pad and a large swimming pool, too. Other than that, designer Terry Disdale had free reign for the rest of the superyacht. It’s just as much a clean piece of architectural styling as it is a stunning experience on deck.

2. Fulk Al Salamah | 538 feet – 164m

Fulk Al Salamah translates to “Ship of Peace” and that’s something that sounds like a given when you’ve taken a look at this superyacht’s incredible layout. Developed under the codename Project Saffron, Fulk Al Salamah is more of a support vessel than she is a typical superyacht. 

While she might still come complete with all of the necessities for a particularly relaxing voyage, she’s more so known for being a transport ship for the Royal Navy of Oman. She’s also used as a sort of friendship boat — pun intended — and is often sailed across the world with the intention of strengthening ties with the Sultanate. In some ports, influential people are welcomed onboard.

1. Azzam | 590 feet – 181m

Most superyachts in the top 10 category have a few mere inches between sizes, but the Azzam shoots far ahead with a large amount of extra length. The largest superyacht in the world, she was never designed to win the title — rather just to be a sleek and elegant vessel. Azzam was crafted backward, with the plans for her interior confirmed long before her exterior was fully signed off. 

Her length only came to be as such to incorporate everything required for the interiors, which added an extra 35 meters to her overall size. She’s also designed to look smaller than she actually is, with a blend of indoor and outdoor living. It took more than 4,000 people to build Azzam , clocking up six million man-hours over a period of four years.

The largest yachts in the world: Conclusion

The largest yachts in the world are:

• Azzam—590 feet
• Fulk Al Salamah—538 feet
• Eclipse—533 feet
• Dubai—531 feet
• Blue—527 feet
• Dilbar—511 feet
• Al Said —508 feet
• A+—483 feet
• Prince Abdulaziz—482 feet
• Opera—480 feet
• OK—479 feet
• El Mahrousa—478 feet
• Sailing Yacht A—469 feet
• Nord—465 feet
• Yas—463 feet
• Ocean Victory—460 feet
• Scheherazade —459 feet
• Solaris—458 feet
• Al Salamah—457 feet
• Rising Sun—454 feet
• Flying Fox—446 feet
• Savarona—446 feet
• Crescent—445 feet
• Serene —439 feet
• Al Mirqab—436 feet
• Y721 (aka Koru)—417 feet

The most expensive yacht in the world

The fact that the History Supreme, the world’s most expensive superyacht, comes coated in gold, is only part of the reason for its high cost. A superyacht with a real-life Midas touch, it was sold to an anonymous Malaysian businessman for $4.8 billion. 

Robert Kuok, the richest Malaysian businessman, is the rumored owner of History Supreme, but no one has confirmed for sure. The History Supreme also comes with plenty of other impressive touches: a master bedroom decked out in platinum, a wall feature made from meteoric stone, and a genuine T-Rex dinosaur bone, to add to the list. 

She took three years to build from scratch and comes with 10,000 kilograms of solid gold and platinum. Other seriously luxe features are her 68 kilograms 24-carat gold Aquavista Panoramic Wall Aquarium and a liquor bottle adorned with a rare 18.5-carat diamond . The base of the vessel comes wrapped in gold, too.

Frequently asked questions about the world’s largest yachts

The largest yachts in the world are owned by Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Sultan Haitham bin Tariq, Roman Abramovich, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and Alisher Usmanov. Our guide tells you more about all the biggest yachts in the world .

At 417 feet (127 m), Amazon founder Jeff Bezos’ sailing yacht, Koru (formerly Project Y721), is one of the world’s largest yachts.

The 181-m (590 ft) Azzam is the world’s longest yacht in length, but the 156-m Dilbar has a much larger internal volume (measured in Gross Tons) at 15,917 GT (Gross Tons) versus 13,136 GT for Azzam. As such, Dilbar is the world’s largest yacht in volume. Read our full guide to discover the largest yachts in the world .

The biggest yacht in the world is the Azzam , which has an estimated cost of $600 million. She’s owned by Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan and is not currently for sale.

In terms of the number of megayachts, the largest superyacht-owning country is the United States. Nationality-wise, beyond American, an increasing percentage of superyacht owners are Turkish, Greek, Emirati, German, Australian and Dutch.

About the author

Emma Treagus

Women’s fashion & travel editor.

A former fashion assistant and budding entrepreneur who calls the world her home, Emma writes many of Luxe Digital’s women’s style and travel stories, drawing on her passion and experience for slow fashion alongside an appreciation for current trends. When she’s not getting her way with words, you’ll find her exploring a new city (at quite a walking pace)—locating the nearest sushi restaurant or devouring a book on the beach.

Learn more about Emma Treagus

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• Lurssen Yachts

On the 5th April 2013 Lürssen, the leading shipyard for large luxury yacht building, launched the 180m yacht AZZAM - the largest motor yacht in the world. The sleek and elegant superyacht features exterior design by Nauta Design.

Fulk Al Salamah

• Mariotti Yachts

This 164-metre (538ft) superyacht was built in Italy by Mariotti Yachts and now sits in the Omani capital as part of the royal fleet. The Italian built superyacht is currently the second largest privately owned yacht in the world, after Lurssen's Azzam.

• Blohm + Voss

Roman Abramovich's yacht Eclipse has received a huge amount of industry attention, not just for its size but for the celebrity of its owner. Eclipse is the largest and most expensive superyacht ever built. When initially ordered she was estimated to cost approximately £330million, by the time she was delivered however, her overall costs were closer to the £1billion mark due to the extra luxury fittings and security measures required by her owner. With a crew of up to 60, Eclipse is a giant of the sea. She was the fourth superyacht comissioned by Abramovich.

• Platinum Yachts

This magnificent yacht was originally commissioned by Prince Jefri Bolkiah of Brunei. Construction was suspended in 1998 and the vessel left unfinished until HH Sheik Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum secured the rumoured $300 million project. Platinum Yachts took the mega yacht to completion and in 2006 launched Dubai to become the world’s largest private yacht. Today however, Dubai is the second largest privately owned yacht in the world.

Launched in February 2022, Project Blue is Lurssen's latest secretive yacht project. With little revealed about her specifications and designers, her expansive size was confirmed by the German shipyard following her launch: an incredible 160m. Project Blue will be Lurssen's second-largest superyacht, and is due to be delivered in 2023. She was recently spotted in Bremerhaven, Germany, making her way out to sea for her maiden sea trial. She is expected to have a beam of 21m, and a gross tonnage of 15,320 GT. Her other specifications are currently unknown.

Originally known as Project Omar, the 156 metre superyacht Dilbar was launched in 2016 after over 4 years of construction. A favourite with yachtspotters worldwide, Dilbar is considered the largest superyacht in the world by volume.

Like most royal superyachts, little is known about Al Said, a giant mega yacht formerly codenamed "Project Sunflower". She was delivered to the Sultan of Oman in 2008 as a replacement for a smaller mega yacht of the same name. At a stunning 155m, Al Said consists of six large decks and features striking exterior and interior design by Espen Oeino International, the same company that designed the stunning 127m mega yacht Octopus. According to reports, Al Said is said to accommodate as many as 70 guests and 154 professional crew, as well as featuring a concert room capable of accommodating a 50 piece orchestra.

When construction of A+ (formerly named Topaz) first began she was forecast to be the 4th largest yacht in the world and to measure approximately 147m (482’3’’ft). Having left her floating shed at the Lürssen shipyard located in Bremen, Germany, she is now ready to claim that mantle and undergo the final phases of construction.

Prince Abdulaziz

• Helsingor Vaerft

As one of the yachts of the Saudi Royal Family, Prince Abdulaziz is used to conduct official business as well as for pleasure. The largest yacht built in the 20th century, the interior alone took 15 months to complete. Originally built for the late King Fahd of Saudi Arabia who named the yacht after his son, it is now owned by his brother Abddullah.

Very little is known about Lurssen's mysterious superyacht OPERA. At 146m, the superyacht will be the sixth largest yacht Lurssen has built at the time of her launch in September 2022. OPERA was first spotted in May 2021 when she transported to the yard's Bremen outfitting facilities in Germany.

El Mahrousa

• Samuda Bros.

This Egyptian presidential yacht is not only one of the world’s largest but also one of the oldest. Built in 1865 in London, the yacht was intended for the King of Egypt. Originally named Mahroussa, El Horriya was extended in 1872 and again in 1905.  Nowadays she is berthed in Alexandria and is listed as a training ship by the Egyptian Navy.

Developed by German shipyard Lürssen, construction of Project Luminance is underway at their facilities near Lemwerder. Due to enter the esteemed list of the Top 10 largest superyachts in the world, information about the 145m superyacht is limited at this moment in time. Lürssen are world-famous for their incredible innovations and their capacity to build extremely large mega yachts filled with numerous features. Photos that have been captured of the boat indicate that she will have considerable deck space with plenty of room left over indoors to be packed out with luxury.

SAILING YACHT A

Sailing Yacht A is a highly unique vessel, with an LOA of 142.81m. She is one of the world’s largest and the most advanced superyachts with a number of unique features, including an underwater observation pod, hybrid diesel-electric propulsion system and premium navigation systems. Her three masts are the tallest and most highly loaded freestanding composite structures in the world. Her futuristic design was created by Philippe Starck, her smooth silver-metallic surfaces challenging the expectations of conventional aesthetics.

As one of the most well-known builders of Top 100 yachts, Lurssen's NORD (formerly Opus and Redwood) has been highly anticipated as one of the largest ever to launch from the German yard. Also the largest project set to launch in 2020, at 142m, she will accommodate up to 36 guests in 20 cabins and was designed by Nuvolari Lenard.

• ADMShipyards

The 141m superyacht Swift141, now christened 'Yas', was successfully launched by ADMShipyards in November 2011; entering the record books as both the largest launch of 2011 and most significant superyacht in recent history. ADMShipyards, members of Privinvest, has proudly announced the launch of their first superyacht. At 141 meters, this stunning private yacht ranks as the sixth largest superyacht in the world.

• Lloyd Werft

Project Solaris is the revolutionary explorer yacht built by German masters of engineering Lloyd Werft. Topping off the yard's record for ultra large luxury yacht build, Project Solaris is an estimated 139m+ explorer yacht at the German giant's shed.

Scheherezade

As with most yachts in construction at Lurssen, little is known about this 140m project. We do not yet know the designer or architect, but she has been spotted moving around the build-hall. Her sightings have lead yacht spotters on the docks of the yard to aptly name her 'Project Lightning.' We hope to see her launch towards the end of 2019.

Ocean Victory

• Fincantieri Yachts

The largest yacht ever built in Italy and one of the ten largest in the world, Fincantieri has announced the successful delivery of Project Victory - a 140 metre superyacht launched in 2014 - under the official name of Ocean Victory.

Code named as Mipos (short for Mission Possible) during her construction, Al Salamah belongs to Saudi Arabian Defence Minister Prince Sultan bin Abdul Aziz. Kept a great secret, rumours tell that she has over 80 rooms, a helipad, and an indoor swimming pool complete with glass roof. A real working wonder, this yacht was completed in 1999 after only two years.

Owned by media bigwig David Geffen, Rising Sun is rumoured to have been commissioned by Ellison specifically to be larger than Paul Allen’s Octopus. This 2004 yacht is spread over five decks and is equipped with everything from Jacuzzi bathrooms and wine cellars to a top deck basketball court.

• Cars, Jets & Yachts

The 10 Biggest Superyachts in the World

The yachting world is set for a shake-up with a revolutionary new vessel primed to steal the top spot.

By Emma Al-Mousawi

Superyachts represent the very pinnacle of luxury travel but they can vary in size dramatically; from those at the smaller end of the spectrum measuring under 100 ft to gargantuan 500-ft+ custom-built creations that command price tags in the hundreds of millions(or even billions). Here at Elite Traveler, we have been exploring the latter as we take a look at the 10 biggest superyachts in the world.

[See more: The Best Luxury Yacht Builders in the World]

El Mahrousa

Builder: Samuda Brothers Year of build: 1865 LOA: 478.1 ft Number of guests: U nknown Number of crew: 160

The oldest by over 100 years to make our list of the biggest superyachts in the world, Egypt’s presidential yacht El Mahrousa is an enormous floating piece of history. Nearly four decades older than the Titanic , she set sail on her first voyage just as President Lincoln was beginning his second term in office. 

Built by the now-defunct London shipyard Samuda Brothers, El Mahrousa was designed by the most celebrated master-shipwright of the day, Sir Oliver Lang. Commissioned by Khedive Ismail, Egypt’s Ottoman governor, she went on to play a central role in many of Egypt’s defining moments including the opening of the Suez Canal as well as ferrying three of the country’s rulers to exile, including the last king of Egypt. 

She has had numerous modifications over the years, growing 57 ft in length since she first left the Thameside dockyard in 1865.  Today, she is the world’s oldest active superyacht and was the first to pass through the new Suez Canal extension in 2015.

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Prince abdulaziz.

Prince Abdulaziz is one of the yachts owned by the Saudi royal family / ©Shutterstock

Builder: Helsingor Vaerf Year of build: 1984 LOA: 482.4 ft Number of guests: 64 Number of crew: 65

At 482.4 ft Prince Abdulaziz is the largest yacht built in the 20th century and is thought to be one of the last yachts built by the historic Danish shipyard, Helsingor Vaerf, which closed its doors for the last time shortly after she was completed. 

Commissioned by the Saudi royal family, Prince Abdulaziz has certainly stood the test of time, with regular sightings on the Mediterranean. Her original interiors were by iconic British interior designer David Hicks, famed for his use of color and pattern. Since then she has received fairly regular refits, with the most recent thought to have been in 2018. 

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A+ was originally named Topaz and is the first of four Lürssen-built yachts to make our list of the biggest superyachts in the world / ©Lürssen

Builder: Lürssen Year of build: 2012 LOA: 483.1 ft Number of guests: 62 Number of crew: 79

Built by famed yacht builder Lürssen at their Bremen shipyard, A+ , originally known as Topaz, is thought to have cost in excess of $500m. 

Not much is known about A+, and her owner has never been officially confirmed but she is widely believed to belong to Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahnan, the deputy prime minister of the UAE and the owner of  Manchester City Football Club.

Her exterior was designed by multi-award-winning designer Tim Heywood, and features two helipads, while her interior was placed in the hands of sought-after yacht interior designer Terence Disdale and includes 26 luxurious cabins. 

[See more: Lürssen Reveals Climate-Neutral Yacht Concept]

Custom-designed superyacht Al Said was allegedly named ‘Project Sunflower’ when it was under construction/ ©Klaus Jordan

Builder: Lürssen Year of build: 2008 LOA: 508.6 ft Number of guests: unknown Number of crew: unknown

Commissioned by the late Sultan Qaboos Bin Said of Oman, the Al Said first set sail in 2008 and like many royal yachts, her details are held under lock and key.

We do know however that her exterior was designed by the famed naval architect, Espen Øino – the man behind many of the world’s most famous superyachts – while her interiors were created by the respected British design studio, Redman Whiteley Dixon.

The interior of the ship has never been photographed which has led to much speculation of what lies inside. As well as accommodation for up to 74 guests, she is rumored to include a mini-concert hall capable of accommodating a full chamber orchestra.

Dilbar has one of the biggest swimming pools ever installed on a superyacht /®Kyle Conlin

Builder: Lürssen Year of build: 2016 LOA: 511.10 ft Number of guests: 36 Number of crew: 96

When Dilbar was built in 2016, she was the world’s largest yacht in terms of gross tonnage, at 15,917 GT and the team at   Lürssen described her as “ one of the most complex and challenging yachts ever built, in terms of both dimensions and technology.” 

Owned by Uzbek-born investor Alisher Usmanov s he wowed the judges at the prestigious World Superyacht Awards in 2017 to scoop the top prize of  ‘World Superyacht of the Year’. Her ivory exterior was custom-designed by Espen Øino, while her interior was the work of celebrated design studio, Winch Design. She boasts an 82 foot swimming pool, making it one of the largest to ever be installed on a superyacht, as well as two helipads.

[See more: Twenty for 20: Innovative Yachts of the 21st Century]

Dubai serves Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum / ©Shutterstock

Builder: Platinum Yachts  Year of build: 2006 LOA: 531.5 ft Number of guests: 24 Number of crew: 88

Originally commissioned by a member of Brunei’s royal family as a joint project between shipbuilders Blohm+Voss and Lürssen, the build was halted in 1998. The structure was subsequently bought by the Dubai government and the build continued under the exclusive Dubai-based shipyard Platinum Yachts. Today it serves as the royal yacht of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai’s ruler. 

Designed by Winch Design , she spans over seven flowing decks and features an atrium nearly 70 ft in size. 11  luxurious guest suites have the benefit of their own private balconies while other features onboard include a swimming pool, a cinema and a disco.

Jetting off on an air excursion is easy as Dubai is equipped with a helipad for a Blackhawk helicopter while the yacht’s submarine and vast selection of water toys are housed in the yacht’s garage. 

[See also: These are the Yacht Interior Designers to Know]

Both the exterior and interior of Eclipse were designed by Terence Disdale / ©Shutterstock

Builder: Blohm+Voss Year of build: 2010 LOA: 533.1 ft Number of guests: 36 Number of crew: 70

The fourth-largest ship on our list of the biggest superyachts in the world is Eclipse. The German-built vessel   was voted ‘Motor Yacht of the Year’ at the World Superyacht Awards in 2011 and both her exterior and interior designed by the acclaimed Terence Disdale.

Owned by Russian businessman Roman Abramovich, the estimated $1bn+ superyacht was reported to have undergone a refit in 2015 and is packed with tenders and toys including two helipads, three launch boats and a mini leisure submarine. 

Her custom-designed interior includes a 183.7-ft deck and an expansive swimming pool which can convert into a raised dance floor. She also has her own missile defense system, a feature that appears to be increasing in popularity amongst the owners of the world’s biggest superyachts. 

Fulk Al Salamah

Very little detail has ever been released about the Fulk Al Salamah / ©Shutterstock

Builder: Mariotti Year of build: 2016 LOA: 538.1 ft Number of guests: unknown Number of crew: unknown

Very little detail has ever been released about the Fulk Al Salamah, which t ranslates into English as ‘ship of peace’.  Built for the Omani royal family by ultra-luxury shipbuilder Mariotti in its Genoa shipyard, her lack of outdoor entertaining space has led to unconfirmed reports that she is in fact a support vessel, used to shadow the late Sultan of Oman’s Al Said superyacht .

While it isn’t the longest superyacht in the world , when it comes to actual volume, the Fulk Al Salamah is thought to outsize both Azzam and REV (below), with an estimated total gross tonnage upwards of 20,000 GT (REV is 17,440 GT and Azzam 13,136 GT).

Azzam has held the title of world’s longest superyacht since 2013/ ©Klaus Jordan

Builder: Lürssen Year of build: 2013 LOA: 590.6 ft Number of guests: 36 Number of crew: 80

Thought to have cost well in excess of $500m, Azzam has held the title of world’s longest superyacht since 2013 however her reign is about to draw to a close thanks to the next superyacht on our list, REV . 

Owned by Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nayan, President of the United Arab Emirates and Emir of Abu Dhabi, Azzam’s sophisticated exterior was designed by Italian studio Nauta Design.  Much of the yacht’s interiors –  which were created by French designer Christophe Leoni – remain shrouded in mystery but Leoni describes the aesthetic as: “sophisticated, with luxurious decor inspired by the Empire style of the early 19th century”.

Azzam has every nifty feature you could wish for including a helipad, gym, pool and even a golf training room so guests can practice their swing onboard. Like Eclipse, she also boasts her own missile defense system. Despite her stature, she can lay claim to being one of the world’s fastest superyachts with a top speed of 33 knots. 

[See more: Top 10 Explorer Yachts in the World]

REV was designed by Espen Øino / ©REV Ocean

Builder: VARD Year of build: Due 2023 LOA: 600  ft Number of guests: 36 Number of crew: 54

Currently still in build, REV is set to steal the crown from Azzam to become the biggest superyacht in the world once she is delivered. But this is no normal superyacht. Funded by Norwegian business-man Kjell Inge Røkke, REV is a totally unique, state-of-the-art research and expedition vessel with one ambition: to make the ocean healthy again.

Designed by Espen Øino , the vessel is creating a huge amount of excitement within the industry due to the technological advances she is set to offer including cutting-edge marine science facilities. The super-sized vessel is equipped with the very latest observation and mapping equipment for conducting research encapsulating the entire marine ecosystem. One of many exciting features is the 25-ft moon pool in the hull, designed to lower scientific tools and submersibles into the ocean’s depths, including a three-passenger submarine. 

REV is expected to be available to charter for one-third of the year, which will include both conventional charters as well as on a single cabin basis to accompany experts on expeditions. 

[See also: How Much Does it Actually Cost to Charter a Yacht?]

Emma Al-Mousawi

Latest in luxury, the explorer.

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Top 10 largest explorer yachts in the world

Helipads. Dive centres. Ice-breaking hulls. Submersibles. What makes an explorer yacht? True to their name, explorer yachts are well equipped to take on adventurous journeys to the most far-flung places in the world. Equipped with a long-range and vast storage capacity for food, fuel and water to enable weeks at sea, expedition yachts are increasingly popular with owners wanting to leave behind the popular Mediterranean and Caribbean cruising grounds for more challenging adventures. We round up the top 10 largest explorer yachts in the world, starting with a new entry from German shipyard Lürssen...

Solaris | 139.7m

One of the most memorable launches of 2021, the 139.7 metre super explorer yacht Solaris travelled to the top of this coveted list of expedition yachts when she hit the water last year. The highly secretive project is built by Lloyd Werft , which also delivered the 115m explorer Luna in 2010, the fourth largest explorer yacht in the world. Spread across an impressive eight decks, Solaris was designed by Australian designer Marc Newson and hit the water for the first time at the German yard in February 2021. While nothing has been made public about the project, images of the superyacht show a large helipad, sun deck and spacious beach club aft.

• Builder: Lloyd Werft
• Country of build: Germany
• Delivery year: 2021
• Length Overall: 139.7 m
• Gross Tonnage 11247 t

More about this yacht

More stories, octopus | 126.18m.

Originally built yacht for the late Paul Allen, one of the founders of Microsoft, Octopus  is one of the most famous explorer yachts in the world. The yacht has the capacity for two helicopters at the same time, with landing pads on the aft deck and foredeck. The helipad on the aft deck also has a hangar to store the helicopter away in big seas.

Octopus also has an internal dock, which is perfect for storing the toys that every explorer yacht should have. When the dock is filled with water a 20 metre submarine and a tender of similar size are able to float in and out of their chocks. Once they are secure the water is pumped out before the yacht gets underway.

Paul Allen and the crew of Octopus used the yacht as part of an eight year search for a sunken ship. In 2015, they discovered the long-lost wreck of Japanese ship Musashi , which sunk during the Second World War.

• Builder: Lurssen
• Delivery year: 2003
• Length Overall: 126.2 m
• Beam: 21.01 m
• Gross Tonnage 9932 t

Yachts for charter

Ulysses | 116.15m.

After four years in construction, Ulysses first hit the water in summer 2018. The explorer yacht is almost 10 metres longer than her predecessor, the 107 metre Andromeda (formerly Ulysses ), which was commissioned by the same owner, New Zealand's richest man Graeme Hart. Kleven finished the yacht's technical build in Norway in December 2016, after which Ulysses was sent to Bremerhaven for interior and external completion under the project management of Dörries Maritime.

Ulysses is equipped with a heli-hangar on the top deck, a Bell 429 helicopter, and a fleet of high-speed and day-cruising tenders including a 21 metre Princess 68 stowed inside the well deck. Inside, her huge 18 metre beam is able to accommodate up to 66 guests.

• Builder: Kleven
• Country of build: Norway
• Delivery year: 2018
• Length Overall: 116.15 m
• Gross Tonnage 6862 t

Luna | 115m

Delivered in 2010, Luna  was built for Roman Abramovich as an upgraded replacement for his former exploration yacht Le Grand Bleu .

The yacht was later sold to Roman Abramovich's close friend, Farkhad Akhmedov in April 2014. The new owner sent her to the yard in Germany for an extensive 14-month refit costing €50 million and including around 130 jobs. Sporting exterior design by Frank Neubelt, Luna is famous for a low aft deck that sacrificed interior volume in favour of more space for sunbathing. The swimming pool takes centre stage and made headlines for being the largest ever seen on a superyacht at the time of delivery. Elsewhere, the yacht features two tender garages, a gym and an expansive beach club wrapping around a spa, with a steam bath, plunge pool and sauna. Two helipads sit on the upper deck while the entire lower deck is dedicated to the crew. Luna is ice-classed and built to the highest possible standards, allowing her to travel to the far reaches of the world's oceans.

• Delivery year: 2010
• Length Overall: 115 m
• Gross Tonnage 5655 t

Le Grand Bleu | 112.8m

Le Grand Bleu was built for US telecommunications tycoon John McCaw who subsequently sold the yacht to the Russian businessman Roman Abramovich who had Le Grand Bleu refitted to his own specifications. The main addition was the 4.8 metre swim platform. Le Grand Bleu is now reportedly owned by Ambramovich's friend and business associate Eugene Shvidler.

The yacht has many features that make her ideal for exploration, including a large tender garage with storage for two sports boats as well as a landing craft capable of carrying a 4x4 Land Rover for excursions ashore. Le Grand Bleu even has a 22 metre sailing yacht and a 21 metre Sunseeker motor yacht stored on the aft deck. The yacht is operated by a massive crew of 65 staff.

• Builder: Bremer Vulkan
• Delivery year: 2000
• Length Overall: 112.8 m
• Beam: 17.68 m
• Gross Tonnage 5496 t

Andromeda | 107.40m

First commissioned by New Zealand businessman Graeme Hart as Ulysses , Andromeda is now reportedly owned by Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg . A capable explorer yacht ready for any conditions, Andromeda was built at Kleven Verft, a Norwegian company known for building offshore commercial vessels.  Specially designed to have a long-range,  Andromeda  is capable of carrying 36 guests to the furthest corners of the world’s oceans and is equipped with an extensive inventory of toys and tenders, including six motorbikes, two ATVs, a helicopter, a twin-hulled 50-knot support boat, a Sealegs amphibious RIB and full-on landing craft. Guests each get very generous quarters, spread across three decks, with the choicest digs being the two VIPs on the boat deck, each with its own private superyacht balcony .

• Delivery year: 2016
• Length Overall: 107.4 m
• Gross Tonnage 5937 t

Tranquility | 91.5m

The 91.5m explorer yacht Tranquility was the first yacht built to PYC standard when it was first delivered in 2014 by Dutch yard Oceanco originally called Equanimity. Since then, the yacht has enjoyed a colourful reputation, after being seized by Indonesian authorities at the request of the US Department of Justice in 2018 . The yacht hit the headlines again in 2019 as the renamed Tranquility when it played host to Kylie Jenner, who celebrated her 22nd birthday on board . However, one thing has remained constant. Tranquility has remained among the top 10 largest explorer yachts in the world since being it was first delivered in 2014. Spanning five decks, Tranquility is packed with premium superyacht features, including a foredeck helipad, spa and wellness area and 20 metre swimming pool. The tender garage houses two 10.5 metre Hodgson tenders – one sport and one limousine that can carry up to 12 guests and two crew each. Tranquility is well equipped for adventure with a range of water toys including Jet Skis, Wave Runners, SeaBobs and an electric surfboard.

• Builder: Oceanco
• Country of build: Netherlands
• Delivery year: 2014
• Length Overall: 91.5 m
• Beam: 14.6 m
• Gross Tonnage 2999 t

Voyager | 91.4m

The 91.4 metre explorer yacht Voyager is not only one of the largest explorer yachts in the world, but one of the most adventurous . The yacht travelled more than 27,000 nautical miles in 2020, exploring a selection of far-flung locations such as South Africa, Madagascar and Antarctica. The explorer entered this list in 2019, when it completed a three-year conversion from a supply ship into an explorer yacht. The yacht was first built by Swiftships in 1997 as Candy Trader with an initial length of 63 metres. It was later renamed HOS Trader in 2003 and used as an offshore supply ship. Now, the yacht features five decks and a crew of 70. Other features include multiple galleys, pantries and media rooms and a standout deep dive centre – one of the primary purposes of the yacht.

• Builder: Swiftships
• Country of build: United States of America
• Delivery year: 1997
• Length Overall: 91.4 m
• Gross Tonnage 1194 t

Ice | 90.1m

One of the most iconic yachts in the world , Ice  was sold to Suleiman Kerimov following delivery and is more than just imposing and stylish. Ice is also environmentally friendly, extremely quiet and free from vibration thanks to two Azipod units powered by up to eight Deutz generating sets. This provides household power and doesn't sacrifice performance, with the yacht still capable of reaching 18.6 knots.

One of the world's largest explorer yachts, Ice has an arsenal of toys and sailing dinghies as well as a helipad for the Eurocopter EC135 helicopter. A range of 6,000 nautical miles means she can travel anywhere in the world.

• Delivery year: 2005
• Length Overall: 90.1 m
• Gross Tonnage 3268 t

Olivia O | 88.5m

Like many explorers on this list, the 88m Olivia O was built by a yard better known for its commercial vessels. The yacht was delivered by Ulstein Verft in 2020 and designed by legendary superyacht designer Espen Øino . Characterised by a striking reverse bow and explorer profile, Olivia O is believed to be the first time Ulstein’s trademarked X-Bow has appeared on a yacht. The feature pierces smaller waves and reduces pitching and roll in high seas. With a reported gross tonnage of just under 5000GT, Olivia O has plenty of room down below, including accommodation spread over five decks for a total of 20 guests in eight cabins, including Pullman beds. Olivia O also carries a full-time crew of 30. The interior, which was designed by Droulers , is “orientally themed”, specifically around Japan. Other features include a gym, cinema room, large swimming pool and helipad.

• Builder: Ulstein Verft
• Delivery year: 2020
• Length Overall: 88.5 m
• Beam: 16.3 m
• Gross Tonnage 4989 t

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• Digital Edition

Best luxury yacht: 7 ultimate luxury cruisers you can buy

• Toby Hodges
• March 14, 2024

Toby Hodges takes a look at all the nominees and the winner of the best luxury yacht category in the European Yacht of the Year Awards

The definition of the best luxury yacht will differ according to personal opinion and from boat to boat. This year’s nominees in the luxury yacht category of the European Yacht of the Year Awards proved that perfectly.

The European Yacht of the Year awards are selected by a broad panel of expert judges from across the globe. These are people who spend their professional lives sailing and comparing yachts, so you can be certain that the yachts which stand out in this field are truly the best of the best on the market.

The best luxury yachts

Best luxury yacht winner 2024 – arcona 50.

When you enter the fiercely competitive 50ft luxury performance yacht market you better get it right. And the jury felt Arcona managed that. This watershed design for the traditional Swedish brand, by X-Yachts co-founder and former designer Niels Jeppesen, is a big, contemporary new Arcona, one that sees it move away from its cruiser-racer heritage and classic interiors.

The on trend styling inside and out is backed up by a premium level of build and finish quality and sailing performance – particularly if you have the performance sails, traveller and deep (2.95m) keel options the test boat carried, although the latter does limit your berthing and anchoring options.

While I doubt it’ll be raced or will suit typical bluewater use, it offers a purity of performance push-button sailing: a handsome prospect upwind in a light breeze, it transforms into a powerful reaching machine with stacks of control.

As chairman of our jury, Jochen Rieker, puts it: “The boat certainly did not win for her somewhat borrowed looks. She wins by checking all the boxes in all other respects. Slipping along gracefully in the lightest of airs, holding her stride and her balance in more demanding conditions, offering warmth, light and this reassuring feeling of utter quality down below – there simply isn’t anything to fault.”

Contest 50CS

The Contest 50CS, for example, is an archetype luxury cruising yacht, one built to the highest standards and that could take you to most waters in impeccable comfort. This model is, uniquely, available in two versions: this more conventional 50CS with aft master cabin, or the forward owner’s suite version on the aft cockpit Contest 49CS . We ran a full test on the latter after spending two days aboard in the North Sea, where that noticeably high freeboard, which may not aid boarding nor windage, helped keep us dry on deck in a steady Force 6 gusting 7.

As the 50CS proved, this Judel/Vrolijk design keeps slipping along in the light stuff too, providing enjoyable sailing in 6 knots breeze under a code sail. The centre cockpit offers a deep protected guest area, but also links well to the spacious aft deck.

And the Wetzels-Brown-designed interiors of Contests today are stunning and hard to match. The engineering, access to usable stowage, details and finish on the 50CS is first class and to get this level of quality at this size is special.

Both Contest and X-Yachts are early adopters of hybrid power, offering their bluewater cruisers with optional electric drives. For the XC 47 this was designed-in from the start to offer Oceanvolt’s award-winning new 25kW regenerative drive.

The XC 47 is another wonderfully engineered and thought out yacht for distance cruising, in particular for those who also enjoy hands-on helming pleasure. That should come as no surprise to any X aficionados, but what really struck me most about this yacht was the stowage, and the forethought needed to create that, together with how practical it has been made.

That may sound slightly anticlimactic but ask any long-term cruiser and stowage is always a priority. On deck, this constitutes a huge lazarette and sail locker, plus clever systems for launching a dinghy via davits and a liferaft canister, while below decks every square inch of space has been used effectively, with lockers hinged with gas struts.

It’s clear the Danish yard went to considerable time and effort, even building a full mock up of the interior that could be canted 20° each way.

If the deck saloon style looks didn’t sell this model to all – this is the first full non-Jeppesen designed X – the jury were converted once they’d taken the helm. ‘Quirky’ became ‘muscular and bold’. The ease with which it can be sailed from the cockpit was also appreciated.

While I understand many offshore cruisers like a protected centre cockpit and more sun protection, the attention to detail, stowage and practicalities, combined with the direct steering, motion and enjoyable sailing this X offers make it a standout new offering.

Jeanneau Yachts 55

Meanwhile the Jeanneau Yachts 55 stands out for different, unique reasons in this category, offering a completely new concept in comfort on deck while at anchor and a novel accommodation layout. Its focus is on outdoor living space.

What helps place this in a luxury bracket is not simply the price or the creative input of superyacht specialist design duo Philppe Briand and Andrew Winch, rather that its layout creates a palatial amount of private space for the owner’s suite. Guest cabins have their own direct access from the extensive cockpit via gullwing doors.

It certainly makes sense for solo owners or couples using it as a warm water apartment. How many people this will suit is another question, as it segregates any guests, crew or children from the galley and saloon.

I used the term monocat when I first viewed it, as the 55 really does attempt to mix the two worlds, particularly in terms of providing owner privacy and lounging space. Choose the rigid hard top and windshield and there’s a vast amount of covered area including a dinette and chart table – plus a bimini can shade all that extensive aft deck too.

The penalty comes in additional weight and wetted surface, and is felt in the handling and performance, the latter particularly in lighter breeze with the optional in-mast furling, self tacking headsail and shallow draught package we had. However, it’s set up to be easily managed from the mid cockpit with good visibility from the twin helms and easy circulation thanks to the ramped side decks. Full report in YW February 2024.

Best luxury yacht 2023

Best luxury yacht winner – oyster 495.

It is hard to imagine that the decor of a yacht can change its look and feel quite this much, yet the layout of this second 495, Eddie Jordan’s dramatic looking Tuga , is in fact identical to the first boat that I spent several days aboard last summer.

At its heart is a wonderfully (Humphreys) designed and engineered luxury bluewater cruiser conceived from the ground up, built in a new dedicated facility to a repeatable quality very few yards are capable of.

The 495 offers consistent passage making speeds in real voluminous comfort – whether enjoyed from the deep cockpit or the best-in-class aft cabin. Deck stowage and mechanical space is also superb.

Then factor in the family appeal of Oyster’s after sales and world rally programme and you start to appreciate the premium world this sub 50-footer gives access to.

The first yacht fully conceived under CEO Richard Hadida’s reign, this is also the smallest completely new Oyster 495 since 2005 – and it’s a triumph. It was our September 2022 cover star in which we featured the full review from our Oyster 495 three day test .

Beneteau Oceanis Yacht 60

The Oceanis Yacht 60 is a very different beast indeed to the 62 it replaces as flagship for the Beneteau range. The yard has learned plenty from the success of the First 53/OY 54 and wanted to create a 60 in this style and with the same deck layout (albeit larger and wider) and ease of circulation.

The construction experience of the smaller model clearly helped too, as this is a whopping five tonnes lighter than the bulky OY62 and with a deeper (2.6m) keel. The telling result is on the water. It feels sporty to helm and we averaged a knot slower than the single figure 6-8 knot windspeeds upwind and matched them reaching with Code 0 and a slight swell.

The vast cockpit works well, sheltered below the semi rigid bimini, it has plentiful lounging space with sailing systems led aft to the twin helms. The interior sees a 3+3 layout, where Beneteau wanted to get rid of the corridor effect of the OY62. The galley is forward to help open out space, while the forward suite with offset berth and headboard aft works well to give space with privacy.

This is an attractive, voluminous yacht that leaves a good overall impression whether under sail, on or below decks.

Ice 62 Targa

It all looks pretty funky below decks on the Ice 62 Targa too, especially if you’re watching the masthead fore and aft cameras (plus bow and prop cam) on central displays mounted in the saloon while you slip out of the dock! The Ice is a seriously impressive, contemporary yacht, one that in looks, performance and execution, won over many of the judges.

The first to launch is a highly customised project for a passionate sailing owner who covers long distances solo – he’d already sailed it 3,000 miles around the Med that autumn. It’s impressively stiff, sails handsomely and, thanks to a telescopic keel, points well. We matched single figure windspeeds, and clocked up to the high 9s in 12 knots wind.

Umberto Felci’s team spent 4,000 hours on the design, providing lots of space and light to the interior and a chillout zone in the semi raised saloon. This was easily the coolest looking yacht, with its aggressive reverse bow, chamfered gunwales and carbon T-top bimini, and all engineered and built to a high standard.

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Top 10 Luxury Yachts in the World

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Ever dreamed of sailing to your favourite travel destinations on the most impressive luxury yachts in the world?

Imagine waking up to a breathtaking orange sunrise over the most beautiful yacht in the world . On board the best luxury yachts in the world, you’ll start your day with a restorative head massage. This is followed by a helicopter ride to a secluded island for lunch, a swim in fragrant indigo waters, and finally, cap the day off with a meal of local cuisine cooked exactly to your taste .

Well, bespoke indulgence might not be so out-of-reach after all — at least for a week! At Borrow A Boat, you can rent a luxury yacht in the Mediterranean for you and your group, and no, it won’t cost you $5 million to $500 million . If you’re curious, just fill out a request form with a few of your preferences and we’ll whip up a few options for you to flirt with.  If you don’t know yet which boat is right for you , we support you to make a suitable decision.

For a little inspiration, check out our list of the top 10 best luxury yachts in the world:

10. luxury yacht christina o (market price: $32.4 million).

She may not be THE most expensive yacht in the world, but she’s certainly one of the most notable ones.

In 1954, Greek shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis took Christina O, a former Canadian naval frigate, and turned her into a playground for the rich and famous . John F. Kennedy, Winston Churchill, Liz Taylor, Marilyn Monroe and many more have since set sail on the Christina O.

This superyacht:

• can accommodate 34 guests;
• boasts a massage room;
• a beauty salon;
• a sports lounge;
• a glamorous dining room; and
• a deck that turns into a dance floor.

This luxurious yacht certainly combines glamour, history and elegance. She might be out of reach for you to set sail, but you can still admire her from a distance.

9. Luxury Yacht Lady Moura (Market price: $210 million)

The Lady Moura:

• Was built in 1990 for Saudi Arabian businessman Nasser Al-Rashid.
• The yacht’s name is carved from 24-carat gold lettering:
• Onboard this 344-foot yacht you find a pool, a helicopter, and a 75-foot dining room table.

But the most outstanding aspect of the Lady Moura is its private extendable beach: a sand-covered hydraulic platform that extends out from the side of the yacht down by the waterline, and comes fully equipped with palm trees, beach chairs, and real sand.

8. Luxury Yacht Dilbar (Market price: $256 million)

The Dilbar:

• said to be one of the world’s largest boats at 360-feet long and 50-feet high.
• was built in 2008 and owned by Russian oligarch Alisher Usmanov.

With swimming pools, a helipad and enormous multi-layered decks that can host 20 people on each , the Dilbar is the one luxury yacht for Usmanov to cruise around his many private islands. If you already own a bunch of private islands, you might as well top that with one of the largest yachts in the world.

7. Luxury Yacht Al Said (Market price: $300 million)

The Al Said houses a concert hall big enough to accommodate a 50-piece orchestra — that’s how big we’re talking. This huge luxury yacht can host up to 70 guests and a crew of 154.

The Al Said:

• was built by Lürssen Yachts in 2008 .
• is owned by Qaboos Bin Said Al Said, the Sultan of Orman.
• can move at up to 22 knots and at the time of her launch was considered the world’s most powerful superyacht.

6. Luxury Motor Yacht A (Market price: $323 million)

Motor Yacht A :

• is 390-feet-long.
• is one of the most unusual-looking luxury yachts on the list, but the Russian billionaire, Andrey Melnichenko, certainly likes this style.
• it’s got a helicopter pad, three pools (one with a glass bottom that sits over the disco hall), a silver-plated staircase and a 30-foot speedboat.

The interior of Motor Yacht A covers:

• over 24,000 square feet;
• the master suite a whopping 2,583; and
• houses a disco hall and six guest suites that can be converted into four large staterooms thanks to the yacht’s moving walls.

But, believe it or not, Motor Yacht A wasn’t quite lavish enough for the Russian billionaire, so he upgraded to something even more enormous, which you’ll discover below. If you’re already a billionaire, you need to own the top of the tops in terms of yachts.

5. Luxury Yacht Dubai (Market price: $350 million)

• has been owned by the Sheikh of Dubai since 2006, but was originally commissioned 10 years earlier as the Golden Star by Prince Jefri Bolkiah of Brunei.

Guests aboard the Dubai will find:

• a glass staircase;
• a swimming pool;
• a helipad; and
• several jacuzzis.

The decadent interior is full of mosaics and bold colors, while the spacious deck areas create a large social area and lounge, and numerous VIP and guest suites. The Dubai can host a whopping 115 guests and is currently the world’s third-largest yacht. She definitely deserves it’s spot on the list of the world’s most luxury yachts.

4. Luxury Sailing Yacht A (Market price: $400 million)

Here we are. The latest and greatest edition to the superyacht world. Not to be confused with Motor Yacht A, Sailing Yacht A is something of an upgrade for Russian billionaire Andrey Melnichenko .

Considered the world’s largest sailing yacht :

• at 468 feet in length and with ship masts nearing 300-feet high.
• has eight floors and an underwater observation room.
• can hold a crew of 54 attending just 20 guests.
• can also reach a maximum speed of 24 miles per hour, even with a steel hull and a teak-finish deck. It’s one serious yacht.

3. Top 3 of the world’s most luxurious yachts: Azzam (Market price: $650 million)

• is another superyacht creation by the people of Lürssen Yachts , who claimed it was “the most complex and challenging yacht that has ever been built.”
• at $650 million and 590-feet long, the Azzam is said to be the largest private yacht in the world.
• can reach speeds of up to 30 knots and boasts incredibly luxurious interiors designed by French interior decorator Christophe Leoni.

2. Luxury Yacht Streets of Monaco (Market price: $1.1 billion)

This yacht design has got to be one of the most absurd and unnecessary luxury items we’ve ever seen. But, hey — it’s not our $1.1 billion. As you might have guessed, Streets of Monaco is a floating replica of the city of Monaco. In the picture above you can certainly recognise the capital of the Monegasse.

Luxury Yacht Streets of Monaco :

• was designed by Yacht Island Design of Derbyshire County in England, and is still waiting to be funded by a billionaire owner.
• at 500-foot superyacht features the famous Monte Carlo Casino and racetrack, as well as Hotel de Paris, Cafe de Paris, La Rascasse and the Loews Hotel.
• hosts just seven guest suites onboard, all with private reception rooms, bathrooms, dressing rooms and balconies.

The main suite is the size of a luxury penthouse, taking up three floors and 4,800 square feet. Streets of Monaco has swimming pools, tennis courts, a mini waterfall, a cafe-bar with underwater views, a helipad and submarines.

1. The top of the luxury yachts in the world: Eclipse (Market price: $1.2 billion)

That’s right — the yacht of yet another Russian billionaire. Roman Abramovich is the proud owner of the Eclipse, which was created by Blohm and Voss of Hamburg and measures 536-feet in length.

What the yacht Eclipse has to offer:

• disco hall;
• two helipads;
• 24 guest cabins;
• 70 crew members;
• two swimming pools;
• a mini-submarine;
• several jacuzzis;
• three launch boats; and
• is believed to have several secret exits (one might only wonder what they are used for).

The master suite is 5,000 square feet big, features bulletproof windows, and includes a private garden. This yacht even has an anti-paparazzi laser shield sweeping the surrounding areas!

Find out how the rich and famous spend their sailing holidays on their chosen superyachts.

By the way, if you’ve somehow come into a load of cash and are interested in building a superyacht of your own, you can turn to some of the best luxury yacht brands out there who task themselves with the challenge of building high-quality superyachts on a regular basis.

Big players in the superyacht game hank to their tedious dedication to quality and personalized design.

• Blohm+Voss;
• Bertram Yachts;
• Benetti Yachts; and
• Riva Yachts.

If you cannot afford to buy a luxurious yacht, you could go on a sailing trip for a week and rent of our luxurious boats instead.

What Documents Do I Need to Charter a Boat?

British virgin islands route: a 7-day boat trip in the bvi, 2 thoughts on “top 10 luxury yachts in the world”.

I love spending time on yachts during the summer, but I will probably never have the opportunity of being on one of these ten yachts. However, I would definitely choose to take a ride on the Streets of Monaco if I had the chance. I would spend my time swimming, playing tennis and, of course, taking a ride in the submarine.

These boats are beautiful, not to mention they’re massive! Holy cow, they’re very expensive too. Which is funny, because my boss would like to rent one and take all the employees on a cruise. I’d like to know how much they’re to rent.

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The World’s Best Superyacht Shipyards

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From Germany to the Netherlands, Italy, and the United States, the superyacht industry employs highly skilled craftsmen and women at shipyards around the globe. The handcrafted vessels can be seen in bodies of water from the Mediterranean to the Bahamas, providing enjoyment—and jobs—for those on board. Here we highlight the top 20 superyacht shipyards in the world.

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Lürssen

The German name tops the list, having built 11 out of 20 of the world’s largest superyachts in the last two decades. The 145-year-old family shipyard’s largest yacht, Azzam , spans 592 feet, 6 inches. Imagine six football fields laid end to end, with dozens of staterooms and saloons filled with beautiful woodwork, custom furniture, and art, all inside a high-tech hull. That 2013 launch was followed by others like 512-foot Dilbar and this year’s 364-foot Project Tis .

Lürssen Dilbar, designed by Espen Øino.  Photo: Josep Baresic

Still owned and managed by the Lürssen family, the company’s ability to consistently produce so many floating masterpieces is directly proportional to its skilled workforce and vast facilities. After recent acquisitions, including the famed Blohm & Voss yard, Lürssen owns eight shipyards across Germany. Its staff, some of the most experienced of any superyacht builder, include 400 designers, 600 engineers, 1,600 skilled workers, and 200 apprentices.

Lürssen’s Bremen shipyard.  Courtesy of Lürssen

After launching the company in 1875, Friedrich Lürssen declared: “My firm shall be known as a leader in both quality and performance.”

With his name attached to the world’s largest yachts , Friedrich’s words have taken on a greater significance than he could ever have imagined.

Abeking & Rasmussen’s Elandess at the shipyard.  Photo: Courtesy Abeking & Rasmussen

Abeking & Rasmussen

Located across the river from Lürssen’s Lemwerder yard, Abeking & Rasmussen has created advanced running surfaces, like its Swath hull that skips over turbulent ocean waves rather than pounding across. The name is known for commercial and military vessels as well as custom yachts.

Abeking & Rasmussen’s Cloudbreak.  Christopher Scholey

Its award winners include the 237-foot Cloudbreak , which set new design standards for expedition yachts, and the 244-foot Elandess , featuring its “Nemo Lounge” with a window below the waterline. Abeking’s flagship, the 321-foot Aviva , is unique among yachts its size with an unmatched interior volume that includes a regulation-sized paddle-tennis court .

Aviva’s paddle-tennis court.  Photo: Abeking & Rasmussen

The 112-year-old yard is typically ahead of the latest trends. It is developing a hybrid fuel cell powered by methanol that emits only clean steam. The system could well be the first hydrocarbon-emissions-free propulsion in the yachting world.

Feadship Amsterdam Yard.  Photo: Courtesy of Feadship

Formed as a group in 1949, Feadship is probably the most famous name among the Dutch builders. Feadship is comprised of the De Vries and Van Lent family yards, with locations in Aalsmeer, Makkum, Kaag, and Amsterdam. The group also includes De Voogt Naval Architects .

Feadship’s 312-foot Faith.  Photo: Courtesy of Feadship

Feadship, credited with dozens of custom launches over the last seven decades, has grown into Holland’s superyacht powerhouse. In the 2015, it launched 333-foot Symphony , the first Feadship to cross the 100-meter mark. Faith , a stunning 312-footer launched two years later, has a streamlined profile and helicopter pad with hangar on the foredeck and swimming pool with glass floor (forming the ceiling of the beach club below) on the aft deck.

Feadship Hasna.  Photo: Courtesy of Feadship

Last year, Feadship launched a half-dozen other yachts, including 241-foot Sherpa . Its expedition-yacht exterior, including two industrial-looking exhaust stacks on the aft cockpit, shows Feadship’s design capabilities. Its Project 814, with its vertical bow and long, lean forefoot, will be an example of an entirely new look, when launched later this year.

Nobiskrug Sailing Yacht A.  Photo: Courtesy of Nobiskrug

Specializing in made-to-measure, custom-built superyachts, award-winning builder Nobiskrug produces its vessels out of three different facilities in northern Germany: Rendsburg, Kiel-Gaarden, and Kiel-Friedrichsort. The yard was established in Rendsburg in 1905, shortly after the Kiel Canal opened in 1895. Today Nobiskrug employs more than 1,000 highly skilled craftsmen and women across the three shipyards. In-house production includes hull construction, steel cutting, mechanical work, fitting, pipe fitting, paint, electrical, and carpentry, with these workshops organized under one roof.

Shown above is the brand’s Best of the Best winner A , designed by Philippe Starck and built by Nobiskrug, the yacht is a 470-foot sail-assisted motor yacht that was delivered in 2017.

Nobiskrug Mogambo.  Photo: Courtesy of Nobiskrug

Nobiskrug’s 241-foot Mogambo won Robb Report ‘s Best of the Best award in 2013. Featuring both interiors and exteriors by UK-based Reymond Langton Design, Mogambo is a great example of Nobiskrug’s past projects.

Nobiskrug’s hybrid superyacht Artefact.  Photo: Courtesy of Nobiskrug

Representing the future of the company, Nobiskrug’s hybrid superyacht Artefact (ex-project 790) was revealed last fall in Monaco and is scheduled for a 2019 delivery. With an exterior by Canada’s Gregory Marshall Studio and interior by Reymond Langton Design, the yacht features numerous eco-friendly characteristics, such as lower emissions and a quieter ride. It also utilizes a Dynamic Positioning System to hold its position for longer, delaying the need for sea-bed-damaging anchors.

Amels Shipyard.  Photo: Courtesy of Amels

Amels celebrated its centennial in 2018, but the superyacht builder has modern facilities and one of the industry’s smartest business plans. It was acquired by the Damen Group in 1991, which gave it the financial resources and vision to become one of the most respected custom yacht builders. Ten years ago, it launched a Limited Editions range. Built on proven hull platforms from 180 to 272 feet, owners have a choice of customizing both the interior and exteriors. Close to 40 yachts have been delivered since, proving that the disruptive concept has a place in yacht-building.

Amels Limited Editions 242.  Photo: Schöningh Wulffraat

The Amels’ yard in Vlissingen has two climate-controlled bays, one 475 feet and the other 670 feet, for multiple new builds or refits. Its second yard in Vlissingen East has a climate-controlled bay, measuring 705 feet.

Amels Volpini 2.  Photo: Courtesy of Amels

Used for military and commercial vessels, it has the facilities and skilled workers to handle the world’s largest custom, steel-hulled yachts. Noteworthy launches last year include 243-foot Universe , 205-foot Sea & US , and 189-foot Volpini 2 .

Oceanco launches 110-meter Jubilee.  Photo: Francisco Martinez Photography

Oceanco is a relative newcomer, but it has created some of the world’s most beautiful custom superyachts. Names like the recently launched 295-foot DAR are great examples, but the yard has also built technically advanced vessels like the 350-foot sailing superyacht, Black Pearl , with some of the most advanced sails ever designed. Its other award winners like Jubilee , Aquijo , and Infinity , retain their own unique DNA. The yard has worked with the most sought-after yacht designers, including Terence Disdale , Nuvolari-Lenard , Espen Øino , Sam Sorgiovanni , Igor Lobanov , Tim Heywood , and Andrew Winch .

Oceanco Bravo launch.  Photo: Francisco Jose Martinez Mendez

The Alblasserdam yard is working on 357-foot Project Bravo , the first Oceanco with its proprietary LIFE design (lengthened, innovative, fuel-efficient, and eco-friendly). Bravo will combine hybrid propulsion, weight savings, and extra interior space in a package that could be a game-changer for yachting. “Our approach with Bravo was to maintain a stunningly sleek profile without sacrificing interior space,” says designer Dan Lenard. “The new exterior style concept is bound to create a new design stream.”

The superstructure is lowered over the hull of Project Triton.  Photo: Dick Holthuis

Among the Dutch builders, Heesen has seen the greatest expansion of its model line, which is available in aluminum and steel. Its recent launches range from the 164-foot futuristic hybrid, Home , to more conventional designs like the 180-foot Laurentia . The yard really started its upward trajectory in 2011 with the simultaneous launches of Quinta Essentia and Satori, two very different yachts that captivated the superyacht world.

Heesen Home.  Photo: Courtesy Dick Holthuis Photography

Two years later, Galactica Star , the first fast-displacement yacht, showed that Heesen lived in a world where design and technology intersect. Its largest-ever build, 230-foot Galactica Super Nova , was a sign that Heesen can move into larger categories. The yard has drawings of an ultra-modern 83-meter custom Maximus concept, complete with an entirely open cockpit and swimming pool with waterfall, waiting for the right owner.

A Delfino 95 emerges from the shed at Benetti’s Viareggio yard.  Photo: Courtesy of Benetti

Benetti is not only the world’s largest superyacht builder, it is also one of the oldest. Started in 1875, the Italian builder always has a parade of custom and semicustom builds. The Azimut Benetti Group now has 97 yachts under build over 78 feet. In the last year, Benetti has launched a range of yachts, including Ironman , its sixth Fast 140, 207-foot custom Metis and 226-foot Spectre .

Benetti Spectre.  Courtesy of Benetti

Benetti also recently launched its largest-ever build, 351-foot FB277, one of three gigayachts currently being built in its Livorno yard. The other two are due to launch this year. The world’s largest superyacht builder continues to push the boundaries in design and technology, as it moves into gigayacht territory that the yards in Northern Europe have dominated for years.

CRN’s superyacht yard.  Photo: Courtesy of CRN

The 262-foot Chopi Chopi was a landmark yacht for CRN when it launched in 2013, showing that the Italian yard could go toe-to-toe with the yards in Northern Europe. Chopi Chopi is still CRN’s largest build to date, but the Ancona facility has launched a succession of custom yachts that have established CRN’s place as the crown jewel of the Ferretti Group. The military exterior of 180-foot Atlante , sleek hull of 239-foot Yalla , or stunning, high-tech interior of its most recent launch, Cloud 9 , show the range of the custom builder.

CRN’s Cloud 9 superyacht.  Photo: Maurizio Paradisi

CRN’s current builds include a 260-foot tri-deck motor yacht, a pair of 203-footers with low superstructures and vertical bows, and a 164-foot Superconero , a modern version of the 1970s SuperConero that defined CRN. Ferretti has invested about $10 million to upgrade the Ancona yard, with plans to invest another $15 million.

Baglietto Shipyard.  Photo: Emilio Bianchi

Baglietto is one of Italy’s most revered yacht names, having started in 1840 when Pieto Baglietto built small wooden fishing boats in his backyard. The company built boats for kings and popes, and put the first combustion engine into an 80-foot yacht in 1906. After being rescued from bankruptcy by the Gavio Group, a multinational corporation owned by a yacht-loving family, Baglietto has experienced a renaissance. Both its production facility, which gained a $25 million facelift, and model line, ranging from 43 to 230 feet, are now state of the art.

Baglietto’s Silver Fox.  Photo: Federico Ferretti

Francesco Paszkowski, Italy’s most revered yacht designer, does the lion’s share of design for Baglietto, but the builder recently unveiled other concepts by Milan-based Hot Lab and Santa Maria Magnolfi for its midrange superyachts. Baglietto is offering these very different designs on five proven hull platforms. Its 230-foot flagship is from Mulder Design in the Netherlands.

Rossinavi Aurora.  Photo: Courtesy of Rossinavi

Rossinavi ’s recent launches are some of the most inspired designs in the superyacht world. The 2017 launches, 160-foot  Endeavour II and 161-foot  Aurora , are as different in design as chalk and cheese. The yard worked with Achille Salvagn i on both interiors. Salvagni, known for his stylized residential interiors and whimsical decor, brought a fresh sensibility to both yachts that gave them very distinct personalities.

Rossinavi’s Custom Utopia IV.  Photo: Courtesy of Rossinavi

Last year, the yard launched two more inimitable yachts, 206-foot  Utopia IV and 161-foot  Flying Dagger . Utopia IV is unique among superyachts because of its top end of 33 knots, with transatlantic range. Always on the lookout for new ideas, Rossinavi has unveiled concepts with Pininfarina, designer of many Ferrari models, and the Phantom 62, a sleek, futuristic design by Enrico Gobbi.

Sanlorenzo’s superyacht yard.  Photo: Silvano Pupella

With headquarters in Ameglia and other yards in Viareggio, Massa, and La Spezia, Sanlorenzo is ranked among the top three builders of yachts over 80 feet. In the last two years it has introduced a 118-foot planing yacht, a 210-foot 64Steel (due out this year), the 171-foot custom Seven Sins —not to mention the flagship of its explorer line, the 164-foot 500EXP Ocean Dreamwalker III , which it launched at the last Monaco Yacht Show . The light-blue steel hull shows the style that Sanlorenzo gives to each new launch.

Sanlorenzo SL102 Asymmetric Yacht.  Photo: Courtesy of Sanlorenzo

The recently introduced SL102 employs an asymmetric exterior design , with an outer walkway on just one side of the boat to increase interior volume.

The hull of the 56-meter motor yacht in the Perini Navi Voyager line, designed in partnership Philippe Briand, arrives in La Spezia from the Yildiz shipyard in Istanbul.  Photo: Courtesy of Perini Navi

Perini Navi

The Perini name extends across a succession of groundbreaking yachts from 289-foot  Maltese Falcon , which had a DynaRig sail plan that was designed from a theory, to the ultimate blue-water cruiser, the 229-foot  Sybaris , through to the flagship of Monaco’s 2017 show, the 1 97-foot  Seven .

Perini Navi Seven.  Photo: Courtesy Perini Navi

Since a management restructuring in 2017, Perini Navi has introduced multiple new lines , including its E-volution sailing yacht series and three styles of motor yachts—Argonaut, Heritage, and Voyager. With two yards in Italy and a third in Turkey, Perini now has three sailing yachts under construction, including two 138-foot E-volutions. Its three motor achts under build include two Philippe Briand–designed 53 and 56 Voyagers, as well as its 82-foot hybrid-powered Eco-tender. The brand’s new energy promises a bright future.

Sunseeker’s shed.  Photo: Courtesy of Sunseeker

When John and Robert Braithwaite started their fledgling boat business in 1969, the two brothers had no idea it would become one of the UK’s most important shipyards. Sunseeker is different from most yards on this list because it builds only in composites up to 155 feet.

The Sunseeker 161 being built by Icon Yachts.  Photo: Courtesy of Sunseeker/Icon

Prompted by owner demand, Sunseeker is now venturing into aluminum with its new 161 Yacht. Easily recognized by Sunseeker’s exterior design cues, the 161 will be built by Icon Yachts in Holland. “We are combining the metal build expertise of ICON with our design DNA, technical expertise, and market know-how,” says Sean Robertson, president of Sunseeker USA, adding the new yacht will “absolutely” be a Sunseeker. The 161 will be launched in 2021.

Princess Yachts shipyard.  Photo: Courtesy of Princess Yachts

Princess Yachts

Princess Yachts is the other British builder that continues to evolve in interesting, new ways. Established in Plymouth in 1965, Princess has grown into multiple modern production sites measuring more than 1.1 million square feet. Situated in a port with maritime ties that date back centuries, Princess’s South Yard, where the M Class superyachts are built, is a former 17th-century naval yard.

Princess Yachts Imperial Princess.  Photographer: Marc Paris

The Princess flagship, the 131-foot 40M Imperial Princess, seems like a larger superyacht, with large interior volume and unusual natural light. The yard also makes a 30M (98 foot LOA) and 35M (115 foot LOA).

Princess Yachts R35.  Photo: Courtesy of Princess

Its most exciting launch was the R35, a 35-footer designed by Pininfarina, with a foil system that reduces drag by 30 percent. Princess plans to add the foil design to its larger yachts, an innovation that could revolutionize yachting.

Royal Huisman Ngoni.  Photo: Courtesy Royal Huisman/Breed Media

Royal Huisman

Established in 1884, Royal Huisman is one of the oldest shipyards in Holland but one of its most modern. Its waterside facility in Vollenhove totals about 350,000 square feet, with four heated bays to accommodate yachts up to 266 feet. It has another facility in Amsterdam and a third in Emden, with facilities for yachts up to 394 feet. Its fleet of famous sailing superyachts include Gliss, Antares, Hyperiod, Hanuman, Elfie, and Arcadia . Its recent launches include the 190-foot  Ngoni , which has one of the most eclectic interiors ever, and the more classic 184-foot  Aquarius . Though best known for custom sailboats, the yard is currently working on Project Phi, a 180-foot motor yacht designed by Van Ooosannen Naval Architects.

Nautor’s Swan Pietarsaari shipyard.  Photo: Courtesy of Nautor's Swan

Nautor’s Swan

Finnish builder Nautor’s Swan , founded in 1966 by Pekka Koskenkyla, has always had its sights on building high-performance sailing yachts with beautiful wood interiors. Koskenkyla enlisted Sparkman & Stephens, designer for many winning America’s Cup yachts, to create its first fiberglass boat. The new boats saw instant racing success.

Swan 115 sailing yacht.  Photo: Eva-Stina Kjellman

The builder eventually partnered with German Frers Design. The Frers team, working with 30 Swan designers, is responsible for many innovative designs, including the first Swan 115 S introduced in 2015 at the Monaco show. The 115 was the flagship of the its Maxi division, which includes the Swan 98 , and eventually became the Swan 120.

The 98’s multipurpose deck makes for a great hangout and sunning area, while at the same time has optimal space for sail handling.  Photo: Courtesy Nautor's Swan

Nautor’s Swan expanded beyond its historical plant in Kallby in 2002, when it opened a new high-tech facility in Pietarsaari for yachts from 60 to 115 feet. Its Kronoby facility produces its famous wood interiors. The most noteworthy yard in Finland has produced 2,000 Swans since it launched operations.

Westport’s shipyard in Port Angeles, Washington.  Photo: Courtesy of Westport

Westport Yachts

Westport Yachts has been North America’s most prolific superyacht builder since it began building boats in 1969. Its facilities in Westport and Port Angeles, Washington, include enclosed spaces of 170,000 and 100,00 square feet, respectively, with a separate 80,000-square-foot cabinet shop and 4,100-square-foot upholstery shop. Westport has launched more than 140 yachts.

A recently launched 130-foot/40-meter Westport superyacht.  Photo: Courtesy of Westport

Westport’s success lies in its disciplined approach to yacht building, which involves a production mentality that keeps each build on time and on budget. The builder uses leading-edge machinery, proven coring materials, and components like MTU and Caterpillar engines, Northern Lights generators, and Furuno electronics that bring quality and consistency to the build process.

The saloon of Westport’s recent 130-foot superyacht.  Photo: Courtesy of Westport

Its line of the W112, W125, W130 and W164 are contemporary but not ostentatious, with high levels of fit and finish across the yacht. That type of production mentality, which allows for a certain degree of customization, means the yachts are built to the same high standards.

Westport clients appreciate that level of reliability, not to mention resale value, when it comes to yacht ownership.

Delta Marine shipyard.  Photo: Jeff Brown

Delta Marine

Delta Marine is not given much to self-promotion, but the Seattle yard shares the same type of pedigree as many of the top European builders.

Delta Marine Invictus.  Photo: Jeff Brown

Its production quality, skilled labor, and proven ability to turn intricate, complex designs into beautiful, custom superyachts has earned it a place among the world’s top builders. The yard comprises a 25-acre complex in Seattle, with 300,000 square feet of manufacturing space in its state-of-the-art facility. With Boeing headquarters just down the road, and Seattle being a leading tech center, the trickle-down influence on the shipyard is noteworthy. Its collection of custom yachts includes 216-foot  Invictus , 164-foot  Arianna , and 240-foot  Laurel . Recently, an unnamed 204-foot launch was seen on sea trials near the yard.

Mangusta El Leon launch.  Photo: Emilio Bianchi

The Overmarine Group’s Mangusta brand has been known for speed during its 34-year-history. The Balducci family defined their niche, though the range has expanded to maxi open yachts and long-range yachts. The line extends from 94 to 215 feet LOA, with 300 yachts produced over the years. Its Mangusta Maxi Open series, ranging from 94 to 215 feet, offers speed as well as quietness and stability, in a stylish package. Its 50M (164-footer) is considered an industry icon. The Mangusta Oceano are long-range yachts with ranges up to 5,000 miles.

Mangusta Oceano 46 Q95.  Photo: Courtesy of Mangusta

The Mangusta GranSports are a combination of the two lines, fast-displacement yachts capable of covering long distances. The group has 10 production facilities in Tuscany and Viareggio, Massa, and Pisa that total around two million square feet of indoor and exterior space. It has two wharfs in Viareggio where it does the final work on its yachts. Overmarine is vertically integrated, from the initial design to making the molds, to installing the electronics. The company celebrated a milestone in December: Its Gransport El Leon  (shown above) crossed the Atlantic, the first Mangusta to ever accomplish that feat.

Southern Wind Kiboko Tres.  Photo: Courtesy of Southern Wind

Southern Wind

This 25-year-old builder has design offices in Italy and a modern yard in Johannesburg, South Africa, where it builds advanced composite sailing yachts from 82 to 115 feet in length. Over the years, it has worked with renowned sailing yacht designers, Farr Yacht, Reichel/Pugh, and Nauta Design. Most launches are semi-custom projects built on proven running surfaces, giving the owner the choice to customize interior and exterior. Southern Wind ’s most  recent launch is SW105 Kiboko Tres , the second of its performance cruiser series. Designed for offshore sailing but with the comforts of a superyacht, Kiboko Tres passed the ultimate sea trial: 7,000 miles from Johannesburg to Italy, on its way from the shipyard to the offices in Italy.

Christensen Chasseur.  Photo: Jeff Brown

Christensen

Rare among superyacht builders, Christensen Yachts does virtually all of its work in house. The Vancouver, Washington–based yard has its own metal department for completing stainless handrails, stairways, anchor pockets, and other custom pieces, as well as a stone shop for marble, onyx, quartz, granite, and limestone used in the inlaid floors, countertops, and panels; and shops for woodworking, painting, and upholstery. Vertical integration allows the yard to deliver exceptional details for its yachts, which run up to 164 feet. Christensen’s Chasseur won top award in its category in the 2017 International Superyacht Society, in part for the intricate interior.

Christensen’s Vancouver shipyard. 

Located on a seven-acre marina, the shipyard has a dozen bays enclosed in 180,000 square feet of climate-controlled space.

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Top 10 luxury yacht builders 2024

The design and build of a luxury yacht is a truly personal experience. Whether customising a design to be built, or striving to create a completely new concept altogether, superyacht owners will seek to work with a yacht builder that truly understands their vision, and can translate their dream design into a real vessel.

As Royal Huisman proudly states, “If you can dream it, we can build it!”

Those buying a new superyacht will therefore have many questions to ask themselves before settling on a suitable yacht builder and shipyard facility to carry out the project. Thankfully for these prospective owners, there are a number of luxury superyacht builders that have the ability to turn the biggest mega yacht dreams into reality.

Yachting Pages introduces the world’s top luxury yacht builders and their shipyard facilities , identifying some of the best superyachts along the way.

The best luxury superyacht builders in the world

1. lürssen, germany.

Based in Germany, Lürssen is one of the world's leading shipyards for large luxury yacht building, with a focus on excellence in custom-built superyachts. A family-owned shipyard for four generations, it claims the accolade of building the world’s first motor yacht back in 1886.

Responsible for building more than 13,000 vessels since 1875, Lürssen currently has eight shipyard facilities in Northern Germany, each specialising in a specific size of yacht ranging from 60 to 220 metres (197 to 722 feet) in length. Together these facilities offer 1,125,000 metres squared of space for new builds, as well as refit, repair and maintenance services.

Lürssen builds some of the largest luxury yachts in the world, including the iconic Azzam, the world’s current largest superyacht at 180 metres (590 feet) LOA.

2. Fincantieri Yachts, Italy

Fincantieri Yachts specialises in full-custom luxury pleasure yachts over 70 metres (230 feet) with no upper limit to the size or volume that it can produce. The renowned builder currently has a range of concepts and projects, including 70-metre (230-foot) superyacht Blanche.

Having manufactured in excess of 7,000 vessels in its 230-year history, including the 140-metre (459-foot) Ocean Victory, Fincantieri has a network of 18 shipyards across four continents, two design centres and a research centre, making it one of the largest Western shipyards in the world.

3. Benetti, Italy

Founded in 1873 and headquartered in Viareggio, Benetti is the world’s largest builder of superyachts by number built, with a production capacity of 100 units per year.

Most famous for building Sir Philip Green’s 90-metre (295-foot) Lionheart in 2016, 2019 was its breakthrough year with its first 100-metre+ (328-foot+) deliveries of Lana, Luminosity and IJE. This gave Benetti 2 nd , 3 rd and 4 th spots on the Top 10 Largest Superyachts Delivered in 2019 . As of 2024, Luminosity is for sale at €135,000,000 (c. $147,000,000).

4. Feadship, Netherlands

The home of full-custom superyachts, Feadship is one of the few shipyards worldwide that works to create completely custom yachts. It has worked with superyacht owners since the 19 th century to create one-off luxury motor yachts that are truly unique.

Feadship currently has four shipyard facilities in the Netherlands, with expansion underway at its Amsterdam facility in Western Harbour to offer the ability to build motor yachts as long as 160 metres (525 feet). To date, there are over 250 Feadship yachts in navigation, including 99-metre (324-foot) Madame Gu, 99.95-metre (327-foot) Moonrise, 101-metre (333-foot) Symphony, and 110-metre (361-foot) Anna.

5.  Amels, Netherlands

Located in Vlissingen, Amels operates the largest superyacht boatyard in the Netherlands, and is known to be one of the best superyacht builders in the world.

Amels has been operating for over 100 years and offers both Full Custom and Limited Editions, ranging from 55 to 83 metres (180 to 272 feet) LOA. Built on a proven platform and delivered in half the time expected of standard construction superyachts, all 40+ Limited Editions projects have so far been delivered on or ahead of contract, with 74-metre (242-foot) Amels 242 among the most recent to emerge from the yard. With several new projects currently under construction, Amels is likely to be among the top superyacht shipyards for many years to come.

6. Heesen Yachts, Netherlands

Heesen Yachts is known as one of the world’s luxury yacht builders, specialising in custom superyachts in the 30- to 65-metre (98- to 213-foot) range, but with the additional capability of building vessels of 80 metres (262 feet) and above.

With a focus on quality and innovation, Heesen has created many custom yachts with no two yachts the same. Founded in 1978, it was the first Dutch shipyard to employ aluminium for yacht hulls. In its 42 years, it has delivered more than 170 yachts, with aluminium, steel, displacement, semi-displacement and revolutionary fast displacement yachts making up its fleet. Its most famous vessels include the 65-metre (213-foot) Galatica Star, 70-metre (230-foot) Galatica Super Nova and 55-metre (180-foot) Serenity.

7. Nobiskrug, Germany

Having recently celebrated its 115 th anniversary, Nobiskrug began shipbuilding long before the term ‘superyacht’ was even coined. Drawing on its extensive experience in seagoing vessels, the shipyard turned to yacht building in 2000 with the completion of its inaugural superyacht project, the 92-metre (302-foot) Tatoosh. It has since delivered an impressive portfolio of innovative custom-built superyachts, pledging to work on a single project for a single client to build superyachts ready for the 22 nd century. A big statement of intent.

With two facilities in Northern Germany, the boatyard can currently build vessels ranging from 60 to 426 metres (197 to 1398 feet) in length. Over 1000 in-house employees work across the two sites, where they have developed and built numerous award-winning superyachts, including one of the industry’s most talked about vessels, 142-metre (466-foot) Sailing Yacht A.

2023 saw the launch of 70-metre (230-foot) Amoa. Her key numbers include a beam of 12.4 metres, a draft of 3.6 metres, and a volume of 1,900GT.

8. Oceanco, Netherlands

Oceanco specialises in building sophisticated custom yachts ranging from 80 to 140 metres (262 to 459 feet) in length. Offering a highly personal service to clients, Oceanco is positioned with state-of-the-art yacht building facilities in the Netherlands, and a design, sales and marketing office in Monaco.

The builder celebrated its first launch in 1992, and more than 30 years later its portfolio now includes well-known superyachts such as the 95-metre (311-foot) Indian Empress, 82-metre (269-foot) Alfa Nero, 88.5-metre (290-foot) Nirvana and 91.5-metre (300-foot) Equanimity.

9. Perini Navi, Italy

The Perini Navi Group is made up of four independent companies that operate in five specific markets: sailing yachts up to 60 metres (197 feet), large sailing yachts more than 60 metres, racing sailing yachts, fast cruising sailing yachts and Picchiotti motor yachts.

To date, the group has launched 58 sailing yachts and four motor yachts. Its track record for innovative sailing yachts has seen it set the standard for excellence in the sector, launching more yachts over 50 metres (164 feet) than any other builder. It's responsible for the iconic 88-metre (288-foot) three-masted schooner Maltese Falcon, which currently holds the title of the sixth largest sailing yacht in the world, and other award-winning sailing yachts, such as the 73-metre (239-foot) Nautilus, 70-metre (229-foot) Badis I and 64-metre (210-foot) Spirit Of The C’s.

10. Royal Huisman, Netherlands

Established in 1884, Royal Huisman is the only shipyard with two entries in the top 10 largest sailing yachts ever built. The 2020 launch of 81-metre (266-foot) Sea Eagle II was its tenth sailing yacht over 50 metres (164 feet) and its biggest yacht since 90-metre (295-foot) Athena in 2004, which was then the largest sailing yacht in the world. Despite being renowned for its luxury performance sailing yachts, Royal Huisman’s largest delivery in 2024 is expected to be the 65-metre (213-foot) Project 408, which will have a gross tonnage of 451GT.

Discover how to choose your luxury yacht builder   in our helpful guide or you can  search for superyacht shipyards  in our leading superyacht services directory.

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The Top 10 Best Yacht Builders In The World

Here is our list of the best yacht builders on earth. Deciding which shipyard will build your luxury yacht is a complex and deeply personal choice, depending on many factors including the level of customization you want, your budget, the location of the shipyard, and the ‘feel’ you get for the yard’s vision and people.

Our list of the best yacht builders is naturally subjective and will not feature every well-known brand. Our short selection includes a range of shipyards, from manufacturers of the some of the most iconic custom-built superyachts to hugely popular production yacht builders.

Here are the best yacht builders on earth, sorted by region.

Usa – best yacht builders.

Westport is one of the dominant players in the American yacht-building market, with a hugely popular range of tri-deck and raised pilothouse motoryachts built from composite materials. Their models range from from the 112′ to 164′ (34m to 50m) series, allowing the yacht owner to customize the interior layout without the high cost and long timescale of fully-custom construction. As the largest American yacht building company in operation, Westport has a proud history of high quality yacht manufacturing dating back to 1964, with over 100 superyachts and over 170 fishing vessels launched from their Pacific Northwest Shipyard. Westport yachts are extremely popular in the US brokerage and charter market and have a reputation for holding their value well. View current Westport yachts for sale .

Christensen Yachts prides itself on the construction of American-built custom and semi-custom superyachts from fiberglass, including well known yachts M/Y CASINO ROYALE, M/Y SILVER LINING and award-winning M/Y ODESSA. Founded by superyacht owners, Christensen has a loyal following of yacht owners, many of whom are repeat customers. Currently producing yachts at its Vancouver, WA yard between 100’ to 165’ (35m to 50m) in length, Christensen was bought out in 2015 and is in the process of building America’s largest superyacht facility in Tennessee, which will construct vessels up to 70m. View current Christensen yachts for sale .

Northern Europe – Best Yacht Builders

German superyacht builder Lurssen is the builder of the largest superyacht in existence, the 590’ (180m) M/Y AZZAM, which was completed in an astonishingly quick three years. Known for superb build quality and large projects across its superyacht, naval vessel, as well as its’ yacht refit and management divisions, Lurssen is a family-run shipyard with a prestigious yacht building heritage spanning back to 1875, when it constructed the first ever motoryacht. Lurssen is the builder of 5 of the top 10 largest yachts in the world. View current Lurssen yachts for sale.

Feadship, Netherlands: For some yacht owners, the only name worth knowing is Feadship. This prestigious brand is synonymous with Dutch superyacht quality, and has a legion of steadfast and loyal fans. Dating back to 1849, Feadship creates fully custom yachts from a ‘blank slate’ beginning, priding themselves on creating supremely unique, innovative yachts that stand the test of time. There are 450 bespoke yachts currently afloat in the Feadship fleet, including M/Y HASNA, a 239’ (73m) with a revolutionary layout. Read more on Dutch yacht builders . View current Feadship yachts for sale .

Amels’ vast and high-tech superyacht facility is the largest in the Netherlands, producing iconic, high-value yachts up to 330’ (100m), including their 2017 flagship yacht, 272’ (83m) M/Y HERE COMES THE SUN. Amels offer a fully custom yacht building service, as well as their exceedingly popular Limited Edition Series, whereby the yacht owner retains control over interior and exterior design but the yacht is built on a proven platform, thereby slashing the build time. Amels also builds support yachts through their parent company, DAMEN, a heavyweight in global shipbuilding. View current Amels yachts for sale .

Dutch yacht builder Heesen is known for its aluminum and steel superyachts and innovative use of technology, as seen in the revolutionary fast displacement hull form first seen in the multi-award winning M/Y GALACTICA STAR, and the hybrid propulsion utilized in the 2017 launch of M/Y HOME. With a fleet of over 170 yachts launched since inception in 1978, Heesen is known for pushing the boundaries of what is possible in superyacht design and engineering. Heesen builds motoryachts between 100’ to 265’ (30m to 80m) in length at its Oss shipyard. View current Heesen yachts for sale .

Now owned by Lurssen, Blohm + Voss is a yachting powerhouse in its own right, constructing magnificent large superyachts including the iconic MOTOR YACHT A and 531’ (162m) M/Y ECLIPSE, currently the third-largest yacht in the world. The vast Blohm +Voss facility in Hamburg, Germany creates striking custom motoryachts and sailing yachts. View current Blohm +Voss yachts for sale.

Mediterranean – Best Yacht Builders

Benetti is a powerhouse of luxury yacht building, with a very healthy order list and a boat- building pedigree stretching back to 1873. Since 1960, Benetti has been constructing superyachts in Italy, including iconic yachts MY KINGDOM in 1980, then the largest yacht in the world at 280’ (85m), right through to recent launches such as the award-winning M/Y 11.11. Benetti is part of the Azimut-Benetti Group, the largest producer of luxury yachts in the world, building semi-custom and fully custom yachts between 100′ and 330′ (30m and 100m) long. Known for their Italian style and long history of yacht construction, Benetti has a loyal following of yacht owners who return to the yard each time they upgrade. View current Benetti yachts for sale .

The creators of one of the most well-known yachts on the planet, S/Y MALTESE FALCON, Perini Navi enjoys a superb reputation as a sailing superyacht builder, and also entered the large motoryacht market in 2007 under its Pichiotti brand. Perini Navi yachts are known for their superyacht luxuries and interior volume, as well as the technically brilliant sailing systems that allow these large yachts to be operated by a small crew. Perini Navi dominates the sailing superyacht market with its range from 130’ to 200’(40m to 60m), constructed at their three shipyards in Viareggio, La Spezia in Italy and also in Istanbul. View current Perini Navi yachts for sale .

UK – Best Yacht Builders

Sunseeker is one of the most instantly recognizable names in the yachting world, building performance luxury yachts known for their speed and sleek looks. Once better known for their smaller sport yachts, Sunseeker is now a major player in the superyacht market, with customizable yacht models from 75′ to 155′, as well as constructing the Predator range with a top speed of 45 knots. Built and engineered in Dorset, UK, Sunseeker is Britain’s most famous luxury yacht builder, creating the hand-finished yachts regularly featured on James Bond films. View current Sunseeker yachts for sale .

Worth Avenue Yachts has extensive experience with each of these yacht brands. To find out more about the relative advantages of these shipyards or the other high-quality shipyards that we recommend, please contact us for an expert discussion.

15 Best Sailboat Brands

Table of Contents

Last Updated on September 24, 2024 by Boatsetter Team

When choosing a sailboat, the brand can make a big difference in quality, performance, and resale value. But picking the “best sailboat brand” means swimming through a lot of different kinds of boats with different intended purposes. Are you looking for a large luxury offshore cruising boat or small production daysailer? Do you want a monohull or a catamaran? Are you looking to buoy racer or weekend cruiser?

Although we can’t address all brands and all their uses, we can segment out monohulls from catamarans and address production boats versus luxury brands. Here are some you’ll see on the water and find in peer-to-peer sharing services like Boatsetter.

1. Beneteau

2. Jeanneau

Also under the Beneteau Group umbrella, Jeanneau is renowned for its stylish, performance-oriented sailboats. They offer a broad range of boats that appeal to both casual sailors and competitive racers with models ranging 30-65 feet. Both Beneteau and Jeanneu now build sailboats as well as powerboats.

Another French builder is Dufour that produces versatile, stylish sailboats with a good balance between performance and comfort. This brand is popular among cruising families and casual sailing racers. Dufour was founded in 1964, so they too have a long history on the water and offer reliable models 37-61 feet.

4. Catalina

An American builder, Catalina Yachts offers models 12-44 feet. These coastal cruisers used to be built on the West Coast so you can spot a lot of older versions on the Pacific Ocean. Catalina is focused on easy-maintain and easy-to-handle boats that are family weekending favorites. Dealerships are harder to find these days but today, Catalina will build you a boat in Florida if you inquire.

Oyster is a British luxury builder of serious offshore bluewater cruising yachts and has an excellent reputation with those who want to globetrot in style and make long safe passages. The brand is synonymous with quality and attention to detail. They specialize in building larger passagemakers 49-88 feet and are an exceptional choice for distance cruising if you have a serious budget.

A volume production builder from Germany, Bavaria is known for durable cruisers that are good both with charter fleets and in private ownership. Today, Bavaria offers heavy-duty sailing monohulls 37-57 feet although they also build powerboats.

Another German production builder is Hanse known for sleek modern designs with innovative systems and performance hulls. Hanse has easy-to-handle rigs with self-tacking jibs which makes short-handed sailing a breeze. Hanse has a sister company named Moody which builds comfortable cruising models based on many of the same Hanse hulls.

8. Hallberg-Rassy

A legacy brand, Hallber-Rassy is known for their quality and traditional designs capable of offshore work. This durable Swedish brand has a robust construction and commands a higher price. They’re better known in Europe than in the US and they don’t build in the same kind of volume as many of the production brands so they’re harder to spot.

9. Nautor Swan

A name that has been synonymous with high performance and luxury is Finland’s Nautor Swan. They’re a pedigreed brand with elegant design and renown craftsmanship. Swan was purchased by Italian luxury builder San Lorenzo in the summer of 2024. Their models range 48-65 feet and they have a maxi division that builds superyachts 80-128 feet.

Multihulls:  

A segment of cruising sailboats are multihulls, specifically catamarans. Here are popular production cat builders and three extra brands that will make you look twice.

Perhaps the best-known production catamaran brand is Lagoon which is part of the Beneteau umbrella and has been building models since 1987. These models do heavy work in charter around the world so if you see a cat on the water, it’s a good bet that it’s a Lagoon. Offered in lengths 40-78 feet, Lagoon is a volume builder that develops both sail and power multihulls.

Nautitech Open

Nautitech is a French company that was briefly owned by German Bavaria. Now they’re on their own again and espouse Marc Lombard design. They’re known for unique interior layouts that maximize outdoor social spaces. These stylish cats of 40-48 feet have sleek profiles with angular windows, a lowcoachroof and powerful hull sections. Able to sail 10 knots in 15-20 knots of true wind, these bluewater cats are happy to go around the harbor or around the world.

Fountaine Pajot

The French seem to own the world of sailing cats since another powerhouse production brand is Fountaine Pajot which is also a sister brand with monohull builder Dufour mentioned above. The new designs are built for large groups on charter or for families. Cabin arrangements are flexible from an owner’s version with a sumptuous suite all the way to a five-cabin layout that will accommodate 10 guests with ease.

Balance is a premium builder of bluewater performance multihulls designed to carry a good turn of speed on all points of sail which is assisted by foiled daggerboards that make easy work of upwind sailing. Self-tacking rigs and the versatile VersaHelm make driving these serious models a snap. Balance currently builds three models 44-52 feet with three larger models on the drawing board.

When a budget can stretch, sailors reach for upmarket build-to-order ubercats like HH Catamarans produced in China. These boats carry daggerboards and carbon rigs and are great for serious racing as well as distance cruising. These models have a carbon construction to be strong and lightweight and few multihulls will raise an eyebrow quite like an HH sailing by in a flash. Luxury designs are available in 44-88 feet.

NEEL Trimarans

When two hulls aren’t enough, consider a trimaran. Tris are typically faster than cats but have unique and sometimes challenging onboard layouts. When small and designed for racing, tris like the Dragonfly brand are fast and fun. In contrast, French company NEEL builds large cruising tris that reels off the miles and provide lots of space for cruising necessities. NEEL’s current portfolio includes models 43-52 feet with a flagship coming at 65 feet.

Each of these sailing brands has its strengths, whether you’re looking for a comfortable cruiser, a performance-oriented racer, or a luxury bluewater multihull. The best choice depends on your needs, sailing style, and budget.

If you already own one of these fabulous sailboat brands and want to offset the purchase price and ongoing costs, consider chartering via a peer-to-peer services like Boatsetter that can make ownership much more manageable.

Learn more about sailboats

Types of Sailboats

10 Best Sailboats for a Fun Lake Day

7 Best Sailboat Accessories

Retiring on a Sailboat: 5 Tips & Best Boat Types

10 Best Beginner Sailboats

Sailing Explained: How to Sail Against the Wind

Zuzana Prochazka is an award-winning freelance journalist and photographer with regular contributions to more than a dozen sailing and powerboating magazines and online publications including Southern Boating, SEA, Latitudes & Attitudes and SAIL. She is SAIL magazines Charter Editor and the Executive Director of Boating Writers International. Zuzana serves as judge for SAIL’s Best Boats awards and for Europe’s Best of Boats in Berlin. 

A USCG 100 Ton Master, Zuzana founded and manages a flotilla charter organization called Zescapes that takes guests adventure sailing at destinations worldwide. 

Zuzana has lived in Europe, Africa and the United States and has traveled extensively in South America, the islands of the South Pacific and Mexico. 

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