definition of super yacht

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Megayacht VS. Superyacht

A yacht is known as a luxury watercraft that helps people having the enjoyment of recreation. Two terms that fall under a “yacht” are “megayacht” and “superyacht”. Both terms often get used interchangeably, but in this blog, we will discuss the differences.

Ranging from 80 feet in length up to the staggering 592 feet of AZZAM, the world’s largest private yacht, superyachts can be sailing yachts, motor yachts, motor sailors – or even stylishly converted tugs, or military vessels. In general, yachts are either considered a motor yacht or sailing yacht, depending on how the boat is powered. A sailing yacht is powered by sails or winds, while a motor yacht is powered by engines.

The term “megayacht” is often used interchangeably with the term “superyacht”, which is used to refer to any privately owned yacht over 80 feet in length.

Superyachts for sale and megayachts for sale can vary enormously in size, yacht price, facilities and performance. Some yachts are used exclusively for owners use or are available for part time commercial charter.

Luxury yachts typically offer a huge guest area, giving people the options for both entertainment as well as relaxation in such yachts. These vessels are commercially operated (motor or sail powered) and are professionally crewed.

Superyachts Explained

Although there is no true definition, a superyacht is considered to be a yacht that is at least 78-feet or 24-meters. A superyacht is synonymous with luxury and glamor, affording families and friends the freedom to travel the world’s most glittering destinations in ultimate comfort and privacy.

A superyacht will normally be crewed, and have luxurious accommodations for 6 to 12 guests, as well as sophisticated communal living areas. Superyachts for sale offer elegant entertaining and dining areas, while most come with Jacuzzis, swim platforms on the waterline, and a huge array of watertoys.

Click to view all superyachts for sale worldwide here, including images and specifications to begin your superyacht adventure.

Megayachts Explained

Exact definitions of mega yachts vary tremendously, although some believe that around 200 feet or 60-meters is the starting size for a mega yacht for sale.

The larger superyachts for sale (often mega yachts) will sometimes have special passenger licenses allowing them to accommodate more than 12 guests. Mega yachts generally carry large crews to offer a simply spectacular level of service, with guest-to-crew ratios only dreamt of in elite hotels.

On megayachts, gyms, spas, helipads, private owners deck and even cinemas become standard features, while many sport palatial beach clubs, high-speed chase boats, and even submarines. The general facilities are almost the same for both super yachts and the mega yachts, whereas, the mega yachts are quite bigger in size.

It is useful, however, to know that the term ‘mega yacht’ is not a universally- recognized term and its exact meaning is debated, although it has gained common currency in the United States and in mainstream media around the world.

Click to view  all mega yachts for sale worldwide here , including images and full specifications.

Largest Yachts in the World

Because mega yachts over 200-foot are such extraordinary machines, there are a limited number of them afloat, although as the race for the biggest boat continues, we can expect this number to grow.

AZZAM 592' (180m) Lürssen Yacht 2013

At 592-feet long, AZZAM is known to be the longest superyacht in the world. A world-class team was personally assembled and secretly directed in all areas of development.

ECLIPSE 533' (162m) Blohm + Voss 2010 / 2015

ECLIPSE’s interior configuration has been designed to comfortably accommodate up to 36 guests overnight in 18 cabins, comprising of a master suite and 17 VIP staterooms. She is capable of carrying up to 70 crew onboard.

DUBAI 531' (162m) Platinum Yachts 2006 / 2008

With 7 decks, DUBAI has a wealth of sunbathing areas; a striking mosaic swimming pool and several Jacuzzis. She can accommodate a helicopter of up to ten tons and can carry 2 10-meter long tenders.

BLUE 526' 11" (160.6m) Lurssen 2022

Lurssen’s creation, BLUE, claims the 4th spot on the list of the world’s longest yachts, showcasing its remarkable gross tonnage. Crafted for a Middle Eastern owner, it offers ample interior space, surpassed in this aspect only by DILBAR and AL SAID. Designed by Terence Disdale, BLUE boasts classic exterior aesthetics characterized by a distinctive bow and graceful curves. The yacht boasts two helipads, a sheltered pool on the main deck, a stern bathing platform, and balconies adorning the owner’s cabin. She is propelled by a cutting-edge diesel-electric hybrid system equipped with advanced exhaust treatment and water purification technology.

DILBAR 511' (156m) Lürssen Yacht 2017

Luxury mega yacht DILBAR is famously known as the world’s largest yacht by gross tonnage and interior volume. With an interior by Alberto Pinto, she became one of the most sought-after yachts on the water.

Click below to view the rest of the top 25 yachts by length in the world.

Top Superyacht Builders

German superyacht builder Lürssen 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. M/Y KISMET the 312′ yacht is one of Lürssen’s most popular vessels.

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. There are 450 bespoke yachts currently afloat in the Feadship fleet, including M/Y HASNA.

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.

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.

Building or Buying a Yacht

Superyachts for sale can be purchased pre-owned, or buyers can purchase a ‘new build’ yacht for sale from a dedicated superyacht builder. Superyachts can be ordered either fully custom-built, semi-custom, or from an existing range, and can be built with various hull types which affect speed, range and motion at sea. Luxury yachts can also be chartered out, recouping some of the costs of purchase and upkeep. Your yacht broker will help you through researching, selecting and purchasing your superyacht for sale, making the process easy.

Interested in  buying a superyacht? See below for a selection of superyachts for sale, or contact us below to learn more about how Worth Avenue Yachts can assist you in your yachting journey.

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Palmer Johnson Yacht FOUR JACKS – An Exceptional Performance Yacht

This Palmer Johnson 150 is a remarkable example of modern, speedy yacht design, courtesy of Nuvolari Lenard. It features a luxurious interior that includes five staterooms, highlighted by the coveted on-deck Owner’s stateroom configuration, complemented by four additional staterooms below deck, and extensive crew quarters. Maintained in pristine condition by a dedicated professional crew, this single-owner yacht exemplifies top-tier upkeep. Fitted with Gyro stabilizers for stability while anchored and conventional stabilizers for smooth sailing, FOUR JACKS delivers unparalleled comfort in any sea state.

American Built – The Top Builders & Yachts for Sale

Europe’s yachting industry is centuries-old, with Italy, the Netherlands, and Germany renowned for exceptional craftsmanship and innovative yacht designs. Although America’s yachting history is shorter, it has quickly gained a reputation for excellence. Today, top U.S. luxury yacht builders are known for their award-winning, state-of-the-art designs that rival the best globally. This editorial highlights some of the leading American yacht builders and showcases yachts for sale from these esteemed companies.

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Yacht, Superyacht, Megayacht…What’s the Difference?

A deep dive into yacht types.

In the very technical, precise, and number-loving world of yachting–be it hull length, maximum speed, year built, and so much more–there seems to be much confusion in the categories of yacht types. Those in and out of the yachting industry often hear the terms yacht, superyacht, and even megayacht thrown around casually, and, quite often, interchangeably. So what is a superyacht, really? Is the term “yacht” all-encompassing? Is “gigayacht” really a thing? Do exact numbers come into play? Read on for a deep dive into the different types of yachts.

What Is a Yacht?

While the term “yacht” technically refers to any boat–sailing or motorized–that has sleeping accommodations aboard, the word is typically used for vessels under 80 feet in length. Usually used for pleasure, yachts can also be categorized as vessels specifically used for racing and/or cruising. While still the dream of many, the general term “yacht” usually refers to the “smaller” (we use that word very lightly) boats you may see cruising exotic locations. 

Check out this beautiful yacht: CERULEAN | 66′ Azimut 2018

What Is a Superyacht?

Much like a yacht, a superyacht is also a luxurious vessel used for pleasure; the distinction is in its size. Much of the confusion between whether a vessel falls under the yacht, superyacht, or even megayacht category is still pretty unclear amongst industry professionals. The numbers vary depending on who you ask. Generally speaking, though, a superyacht is usually a yacht whose length exceeds 80 feet. Since it’s all so unclear, we just like to think of it in approximate rather than exact terms: a superyacht is a really large yacht. Superyachts usually have a professional crew manning the vessel.

Spot a stunning superyacht: ODYSSEA | 154′ Heesen 2012

Megayacht: Myth or Fact?

But here’s where things get really puzzling. What really is “large”? Where on the spectrum do different yachts fall? And where does it end? Some industry experts have gone so far as to categorize some of the more massive yachts as “megayachts”. If “superyacht” wasn’t impressive enough, this added term has caused even more perplexity in the wide sea that is the yachting business. While the majority have not necessarily adopted this newer lingo, those that have usually use the term to roughly describe exceedingly large yachts, usually over 200 feet in length. Depending on who you ask, though, some pros argue that the term “megayacht” shouldn’t even be used.

Take a peek at this majestic megayacht: MOCA | 208′ BENETTI 2016

Going Gaga for Gigayachts

If yacht categories weren’t confusing enough, plus the arguments over the term “megayacht”, some shipbuilders have recently gone one step further, despite it all, and adopted yet another term for the most gigantic, crème de la crème of yachts: gigayachts. While the lines for this category are so completely blurred, it seems that these colossal yachts usually teeter over the 220-foot mark. An important factor that those who actually use this term highlight is that gigayachts are almost always custom-built, with the owner personalizing the boat to his or her liking and preferences.

Go gaga for this gigayacht: GALACTICA SUPER NOVA | 230′ Heeson 2017

Does Size Really Matter?

Other than literal size–mostly gauged and compared by the length of the vessel–you may be wondering what really is the difference between all these types of yachts. Some may think: the bigger the better . This all depends on what you value most. Usually, the bigger the yacht, the bigger the crew. With more crew members available to maintain a ship and serve passengers, often the service aboard superyachts (and megayachts) is of the utmost level. On the flip side, some may feel that regular yachts are more their speed–literally; smaller yachts can sometimes reach speeds that larger vessels can’t match, upping the action. Others feel that the “smaller” (read: yet still big) yachts are more intimate, or even more livable. At the end of the boat day, it is all about personal preference. Just like all the other countless options in the yacht business, there’s more than enough to go around. There’s an ocean of options just waiting out there.

Size up this sizable yacht: C144S Hull #3 | 144′ Conrad 2024

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What is a Superyacht? A Deep Dive into 2024’s Mega Boats

Introduction:.

Imagine a world where luxury knows no bounds, where every horizon promises new adventures, and where the sea itself becomes your kingdom. This is the world of superyachts. These majestic vessels, often seen gracing the azure waters of the Mediterranean or the vibrant coasts of the Caribbean, are more than just boats. They are a testament to human craftsmanship, luxury, and the endless pursuit of pleasure.

Table of Contents

Join us as we navigate through the world of these floating palaces!

The Evolution of Superyachts

The story of superyachts is as old as the sea itself. Once the exclusive domain of royalty and the uber-rich, these vessels have witnessed a transformation from mere luxury boats to the floating palaces of today.

In the Gilded Age, they were symbols of immense wealth and power, with magnates and tycoons vying to own the most opulent yacht. Fast forward to 2024, and the allure remains, but with a touch of modern sophistication and technological marvel.

Defining the Superyacht

So, what makes a yacht a ‘super’ yacht? It’s not just about size, though that’s certainly a factor. A superyacht is a blend of luxury, craftsmanship, and state-of-the-art technology. Typically, these vessels exceed 24 meters in length, with some of the largest ones, like the Azzam, stretching to an impressive 180.61 meters. But it’s not just about length. It’s about the amenities onboard – from helipads to mini-submarines, from opulent suites to state-of-the-art cinemas. Every superyacht is a unique reflection of its owner’s desires and dreams.

The Experience Onboard

Life onboard a superyacht is nothing short of magical. Imagine waking up to the gentle lull of the sea, with a dedicated crew catering to your every whim. From gourmet meals prepared by world-class chefs to spa treatments under the stars, the experience is unparalleled. And then there are the destinations – hidden coves, private beaches, and some of the world’s most exclusive ports. Every journey is a new adventure, a new story waiting to be told.

Key features include:

• Decked Out Decks: Superyachts often feature multiple decks, each meticulously designed for a unique purpose. The main deck might house luxurious suites, while the upper decks are tailored for entertainment, dining, and relaxation. Some even have dedicated “beach clubs” where the deck meets the water.
• Swimming Pools & Jacuzzis: Many superyachts come with temperature-controlled swimming pools, complete with infinity edges that seem to merge with the ocean. Adjacent to these are jacuzzis, perfect for a relaxing soak while sipping champagne and watching the sunset.
• State-of-the-Art Entertainment: The entertainment on a superyacht is cinema-quality. Many feature dedicated movie theaters with plush seating and advanced sound systems. Additionally, they’re equipped with high-speed internet, gaming zones, and even libraries for those who prefer a quiet evening.
• Adventure Gear: The thrill-seekers aren’t forgotten. Superyachts often come equipped with water toys like jet skis, paddleboards, and diving equipment. Some even house mini-submarines and have helipads for aerial adventures.

The World of Superyacht Owners

Owning a superyacht is like holding a golden ticket to an exclusive club. From business magnates to celebrities, the list of superyacht owners reads like a who’s who of the world’s elite. And it’s not just about flaunting wealth; it’s about making a statement. For many, their superyacht is a second home, a floating paradise where they can escape the mundane and sail into the sunset.

Superyachts as a Status Symbol

While the luxury and experiences they offer are unmatched, superyachts have always been more than that. They are symbols of status, power, and prestige. In a world where the ultra-rich are constantly seeking ways to differentiate themselves, owning a superyacht is the ultimate statement. It’s not just about the money; it’s about the lifestyle, the exclusivity, and the statement it makes.

The Future of Superyachts

As we sail into the future, the world of superyachts promises even more innovations. With a focus on sustainability, we are seeing designs that are eco-friendly without compromising on luxury. Hybrid engines, solar panels, and even sails are making a comeback, ensuring that the future of yachting is not just luxurious but also responsible.

The world of superyachts is a mesmerizing blend of luxury, adventure, and art. As we’ve journeyed through their evolution, their significance, and their future, one thing remains clear – superyachts are more than just boats; they are dreams made tangible.

And as we look to the horizon, we can only imagine what the next chapter in the story of superyachts will bring.

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What differentiates a yacht from a superyacht or a mega yacht?

Yachts are an ultimate symbol of luxury, style, and sophistication. These sleek vessels take passengers on journeys through the seas, with all the amenities of a luxurious hotel. Yachts come in three categories- Yachts, Superyachts, and Mega Yachts- each with its own distinct characteristics and features.

Main differences between a yacht and a boat

One of the major difference between a yacht and a boat is the size. Generally, a yacht is a larger vessel that can accommodate more people and offer more space for comfortable living. On the other hand, a boat is smaller and may have limited space. Yachts usually come with luxurious amenities such as upscale furnishings, state-of-the-art equipment, and top-notch technology. 

Another significant difference between yachts and boats is the purpose of use. A yacht is mostly used for pleasure cruising and traveling over long distances, while a boat is typically used for fishing, water skiing, or as a means of transport. Yachts are known to have better stability and are therefore ideal for traveling long distances and in choppy waters. 

In terms of performance, yachts are designed to be faster and offer a smoother ride, thanks to their size and more powerful engines. They can travel at higher speeds for longer periods, making them suitable for longer trips. Boats are typically not as fast or efficient and may require some upgrades to increase their performance.

Features and Comfort are required to be called a Yacht

When it comes to distinguishing between boats and yachts, size is not the only determining factor. A yacht should provide a level of luxury and comfort that goes beyond basic functionality. Some of the key features that are expected in a yacht include top-of-the-line engines, advanced navigation technology, and spacious living quarters.

In terms of comfort, a yacht should be equipped with luxurious amenities such as high-end furniture, plush bedding, and state-of-the-art entertainment systems. It should also offer ample space for entertaining guests, whether that means a large sun deck for hosting cocktail parties or a spacious dining area for serving gourmet meals.

When it comes to cruising, a yacht should offer a smooth ride even in choppy waters. This requires a sturdy hull design, advanced stabilizers, and powerful engines that can propel the vessel through the water at high speeds.

In addition to these features, a yacht should also offer a high level of customization options. Owners should be able to personalize the interior design to meet their individual tastes, and there should be ample storage space for their personal belongings.

What’s the Minimum Length of a Vessel to be called a Yacht

Megayachts are the epitome of luxurious travel on the open seas, and they boast an extensive range of features and equipment that are unmatched in smaller vessels. One of the most prominent features on a megayacht is its massive size, which allows for the inclusion of multiple decks complete with swimming pools, sun loungers, and even outdoor cinemas. These yachts are also equipped with top-of-the-line entertainment systems, including state-of-the-art sound and video equipment, as well as high-speed internet connectivity. But it’s not just about the entertainment; megayachts also come equipped with facilities like helipads, submarines, and jet skis, enabling travellers to access areas that are typically inaccessible by sea. Additionally, the interior design of megayachts is simply breathtaking, featuring opulent lounges, spacious cabins, and world-class dining and cooking facilities.

Read also: Explore the World’s Most Extravagant Superyacht Swimming Pools

The Giga Yacht: is it really a thing?

1. Sailing Yacht A – Measuring 469 feet, Sailing Yacht A is the largest sailing yacht in the world. Designed and built by Nobiskrug, this yacht boasts an innovative design featuring multiple decks, a unique glass-bottomed viewing area, and a high-tech navigation system. The yacht’s interiors, designed by Philippe Starck, are equally impressive, with multiple swimming pools, a large spa, and sophisticated lighting systems.

2. Eclipse – Owned by Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich, Eclipse is one of the largest superyachts in the world, measuring 533 feet. It boasts a sleek and modern exterior design created by Blohm + Voss. The yacht features a plethora of luxurious amenities, including a swimming pool, several hot tubs, a cinema, a gym, and even a submarine.

3. Seven Seas – The 282-foot-long Seven Seas, owned by billionaire Steven Spielberg, was built by Oceanco. The yacht features an understated yet elegant exterior design and luxurious interiors designed by Nuvolari Lenard. One of the unique features of Seven Seas is its infinity pool that can be transformed into a helipad.

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Superyacht vs megayacht

Published 05 September 2022

Most people define a superyacht as a vessel used for pleasure, which is larger than 24m (80ft) and has full-time captain and crew employed all year round. This is therefore quite different to a smaller privately owned yacht, captained by its owner, with perhaps one or two temporary crew to assist them in the summer.

The dividing line between superyachts and megayachts however is more blurred, and there is no strict or commonly agreed definition.  If a dividing line was to be proposed on length, then many would agree that this would be around the 80m (260ft) mark, but there is no hard line and some industry insiders also use the gross tonnage (volume) as the dividing line, 3,000GT being a line that a lot of regulations follow. It could also be said that the word superyacht can be used in a more inclusive way, and that all megayachts are superyachts, but not all superyachts are megayachts.

To explain, just a decade ago a 60m (200ft) was considered mega. Today there are yachts being built that are as large as 180m (590ft). As the size of yachts continues to grow so does the need for observers to demarcate the elite 100m+ (330ft+) yachts, and with this comes the introduction of the hyperbolic terms megayacht and even gigayacht.

However, most would agree that today’s megayachts are 80m+ (260ft+) with a minimum of 25 crew who operate the vessel all year round using largely rotational crew and run to a high commercial shipping standard.

What is the difference between a superyacht and megayacht?

Megayachts are run more along the lines of a cruise ship or passenger ship and follow many of the same regulations whereas superyachts can still, at least to some extent, follow a more bespoke pattern defined by its owner. This is not to say that a megayacht does not go or do what its owner wants it to do, but there are much stricter regulations in place for yachts over 3,000GT, including full merchant navy certification for all deck and engineering officers.

Length vs gross tonnage

The simplest way to explain the difference between length and size of a superyacht is with the 157m (512ft) DILBAR. The megayacht is the fifth largest yacht in the world by length (in June 2022), but with a gross tonnage of 15,917GT, in volume terms she is actually the largest yacht in the world (although she is soon to be overtaken by the in-build 183m (600ft) REV OCEAN). Compare DILBAR to the longest yacht in the world, the 180m (590ft) AZZAM, which has a gross tonnage of 13,136GT, and you can see that longest and largest are two different things.

When it comes to gross tonnage the big step-changes with regard to shipping regulations are 500GT and 3,000GT. Being over 80m-long all megayachts are over 3,000GT. The likes of the 108m (354.2ft) IJE, for example, is 3,3670GT and is operated by a crew of 30, and similarly the 92.4m (303.2ft) TATOOSH has a gross tonnage of 3,229.

However, a yacht like the 85m (278.8ft) AKYACHT VICTORIOUS , for example, at 2,291GT, is a bona fide superyacht at the very top end of that definition, but significantly she is well under 3,000GT. In fact, the difference between managing yachts under and over 3,000GT is quite significant, including for example different captain’s qualifications between a Master 3000, designed for superyacht helming of yachts under 3,000GT, and a Master (Yachts) Unlimited, which enables that captain to run any vessel of any size, even the Queen Mary 2 or a supertanker.

Benefits: what makes a superyacht a superyacht?

Synonymous with luxury and glamour, a superyacht typically offers owner and guests the freedom to travel the world in ultimate comfort and privacy. A superyacht will be professionally crewed, providing its owner and guests with spectacular service, including a captain, chef, engineer and chief stewardess as a minimum.

Ranging from two decks to up to three or four decks for guests, a superyacht will have sumptuous accommodations for between six and 12 guests, as well as luxurious communal living areas, both inside and out on deck. From entertaining and dining areas to beach clubs, swim platforms and sun decks, along with watertoys, superyachts are designed entirely for relaxation and fun, with no other commercial purpose.

Most of the largest superyachts are custom built, representing the pinnacle of design and craftsmanship, while the smaller range of superyachts, between 30-40m (100-130ft) are usually built on a semi-custom platform with their own unique interior design. However, rest assured almost every superyacht, be it a 24m (80ft) or an 80m (260ft), will carry some watertoys to keep every guest entertained while on board, along with a tender to escort guests ashore at their whim and in comfort.

B enefits: what makes a megayacht a megayacht? 

Aside from having all of the same facilities and amenities of a superyacht, a megayacht will sometimes have special passenger licenses allowing them to accommodation and carry more than 12 guests at the same time. Guest to crew ratios are also greatly increased, with crew numbers on the largest megayachts reaching 80+, sometimes including Michelin-star trained chefs, masseuses, beauty therapists, dive instructors and personal trainers, as well as captains (often on a rotational basis), chief engineer and engineers, first officer, first mate, chief stewardess, a number of deckhands and stewardesses.

Megayachts will have their own gyms, spas, helipads, helicopter hangars, cinema rooms, spa pools and swimming pools, private owners’ decks or even apartments, and beach clubs to rival some of the best on land. Some come with their own chase boats, while others may cruise in tandem with a support vessel to carry all manner of watertoys and other equipment, including submarines.

Discover more about superyacht ownership with Burgess

To find out more about Burgess’ yachts for sale and yachts for charter , please contact a Burgess broker . Alternatively, get in touch with one of our offices directly: London , Monaco , New York , Miami , Singapore or all other locations .

- Yachts, prices and availability are correct at the time of publication.

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What Is a Superyacht?

A superyacht, or mega yacht, is exactly what it sounds like — a large, luxurious, professionally-crewed vessel, loaded with all the amenities you’d expect from a 5-star hotel. Starting out at a length of 24 meters (79 feet), superyachts are decked out with elegant décor, spacious berths, and come equipped with all sorts of “extras.” Expect novelties such as a jacuzzi, barbecue, sound system, a variety of water sport and fishing equipment, and much more. 

How Big is A Superyacht?

According to many official sources, a superyacht has to be over 75 feet in length (23m). In reality, most superyachts range between 24 to 180 meters (79 feet to 590 feet). Most charter superyachts sleep between 6-12 people. While some are fitted out for a fiesta and are equipped to host up to 50 people, like this 50 guest party yacht in Baja, Mexico .

However it takes more than just size to reach elite superyacht status. Total extravagance is necessary to claim the superyacht title. Impressive size and over-the-top opulence unite to create this grandiose yacht, two characteristics that Boataffair requires of each member of its fleet. With a superyacht charter, customer service is also of the utmost importance. Included in the charter price is a crew of highly trained professionals, including scuba and yoga instructors, masseuses, and high-end chefs who accompany guests on the trip and ensure every need is met. 

Whether you’re after a peaceful getaway or want to host the party of the year, there’s a Boataffair superyacht to fit your holiday desires and capacity requirements.

In addition to size and capacity, Boataffair’s superyacht fleet offers a number of lavish perks; from the grand living quarters of this BVI superyacht charter - to the onboard massage therapist aboard this  Christensen Superyacht . Or how about this adventure-ready vessel in Croatia , prepare to have every need met and exceeded. 

How Many Mega Yachts Are There in the World?

Currently, there are more than 10,000 superyachts around the world, with another 150 newly crafted vessels entering the market every year. Here at Boataffair we boast a notable collection and currently we have over 100 superyachts available for charter in 32 different locations around the globe.  

What is the Cost to Charter A Mega Yacht?

The features of magnificent mega yachts are boundless, which begs the question “how much does it cost to charter a superyacht?” While the price per charter tends to be lofty, it is possible to board a mega yacht without breaking the bank.

Superyacht charters can cost as little as €5,000 per day—and remember, that price includes a plethora of complimentary service like airport pick-up and drop-off, gourmet meals, a full bar, fresh juices, water sport and leisure equipment, barbecue set-up, national park and/or landmark entrance fees, laundry services, and a fully-staffed crew.  

Those who do decide to charter a mega yacht always say the level of service, accessible entertainment, and impeccable luxury are well worth the price tag. Chartering a superyacht is ideal for a romantic getaway with a loved one or a unique venue choice to celebrate a birthday or other special events.

Regardless of the reason, one thing’s for sure: a superyacht charter won’t leave you wanting anything more from a holiday. 

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Check out Boataffair’s selection of superyacht charters and start planning your next dream vacation!

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Mega Yachts Vs Superyachts: All You Need to Know

• Mega Yachts Vs Superyachts: All…

Yachts epitomize luxury and are popular among people who love the style, finesse, and affluence. Usually, the term- mega yacht – is used to refer to larger yachts. However, there are a few differences between the two. From the size to the facilities, superyachts and mega yachts bring you the best of luxury. While several of these mega-yachts for sale have individual owners, quite a few of them are available for part-time commercial charter too.

Here is a look at both these mega and super yachts for sale to help you understand these vessels better:

Super Yachts

The term superyacht describes a yacht that is at least 78 feet or 24 meters. A superyacht offers the best in luxury and experiences to its guests. From skilled crew to spacious and plush interiors, superyachts offer features and facilities that match up to super-expensive hotels.

You can rewind and relax in the Jacuzzis, have fun with water toys, or enjoy the swim platforms on the waterline. A superyacht can accommodate 6 to 12 guests at a time.

Mega Yachts

Yachts that are at least 200 feet or 60 meters fall under the mega yacht category. These yachts, which are also the world’s largest yachts , may have special licenses that allow them to accommodate more than 12 guests at the same time. Megayachts come with a skilled and experienced crew that will ensure that you are comfortable and are provided with everything you need.

These colossal boats offer gyms, spas, private owners decks, helipads, etc. You would be surprised to know that besides these facilities, mega yachts also feature beach clubs, high-speed chase boats, and even submarines.

Here is a list of some of the most sought-after super- and mega-yachts:

The Azzam is the longest superyacht in the world and features in the list of the 100 biggest yachts in the world. For this superyacht, a world-class team was specially created to work on the different aspects of the yacht.

Dubai 531′

The Dubai 531′, another one of the world’s largest yachts, offers an expansive sunbathing area, a swimming pool covered in mosaic, and several Jacuzzis. This exquisite yacht also comes with a helipad and can carry two 10-meter-long tenders.

Dilbar 511′

Dilbar is the world’s largest yacht when you look at gross tonnage and interior volume. The interiors are as striking as her exteriors. Dilbar flaunts interiors designed by Albert Pinto that have redefined luxury. She is also one of the most sought-after yachts among yacht lovers.

Sailing Yacht ‘A’

The sailing yacht ‘A’ is a beautiful boat that is considered to be a sail-assisted motor yacht. This boat will arrest your attention with its unique and sleek exteriors and blow you away with its plush interiors.

Choosing a yacht to purchase or rent can be daunting, especially if you are new to the concept. You can seek help from the mega yacht brokers and super yacht brokers at Miami International Yacht Sales to help you pick out the right yacht for yourself!

Allow Us to Help Pick Out the Mega Yacht of Your Dreams!

Miami International Yacht Sales is a leader in facilitating boat purchases and large yachts for sale across the globe. You can send in your queries to [email protected] or speak to our experts at +1-305-857-8939 to know more about super yachts and mega yachts in our fleet. We would be happy to help!

Also Read: Top 7 Mega Yachts for Sale that You Can Actually Afford! A Complete Guide to Buying a Mega or Super Yacht

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What’s the Difference Between a Yacht and Superyacht? (A Closer Look)

Are you in the market for a luxurious boat but aren’t sure if a yacht or superyacht is right for you? Every boat aficionado knows there’s a major difference between these two vessels, but what is it? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the differences between yachts and superyachts, from size, cost, and amenities, to the pros and cons of each.

You’ll have a better understanding of the differences between the two vessels and be able to make an informed decision about which one to purchase.

So, let’s dive in and compare yachts and superyachts!.

Table of Contents

Short Answer

A yacht is a large recreational vessel that is typically used for sailing and cruising.

Generally, yachts are smaller than 80 feet in length.

A superyacht is a luxury vessel that is typically over 80 feet in length and is often used for charter or commercial purposes.

Superyachts often feature multiple levels, advanced technology and amenities, and much larger cabins and staterooms.

Superyachts are usually much more expensive than yachts, and require a larger crew to operate.

Definition of Yachts

Yachts are luxurious vessels that are used for recreational activities such as sailing, cruising, and leisurely trips.

They come in a variety of sizes, although they are typically smaller than superyachts and range from 24 to 80 feet in length.

Yachts are typically characterized by their sleek, modern designs and are a popular choice among those looking for a luxurious experience on the open water.

Yachts provide a range of amenities, from comfortable cabins and spacious decks to state-of-the-art navigation and entertainment systems.

They also come with a variety of features designed for safety and convenience, such as side and stern thrusters, bow and stern thrusters, and advanced sailing and navigational systems.

Yachts also offer a range of recreational activities such as fishing, diving, water skiing, and kayaking.

Yachts are an affordable option for those looking to experience the luxury of the open waters without breaking the bank.

They provide a great way to explore the world while still enjoying the comforts of home.

Definition of Superyachts

When it comes to the world of luxury vessels, superyachts are the cream of the crop.

A superyacht is a large, luxurious vessel, typically bigger than 80 feet in length, that is used primarily for recreational activities such as sailing and leisurely cruising.

Superyachts are often associated with the wealthiest people in the world and offer a higher level of luxury, comfort, and amenities than a traditional yacht.

Superyachts are designed and built with the latest advancements in navigational and sailing technology.

These vessels feature advanced features like gyroscopic stabilization systems, dynamic positioning systems, and advanced satellite navigation systems to ensure their owners have a safe and comfortable journey.

Superyachts also come with a variety of amenities, such as spacious cabins and suites, multiple decks, hot tubs, private pools, and much more.

All of these features come together to create an exclusive and luxurious experience that is second-to-none.

The cost of a superyacht can vary greatly depending on its size, features, and design.

Superyachts can range from anywhere between $10 million to over $100 million, making them far more expensive than traditional yachts.

For this reason, superyachts are often only available to those with the means to purchase or charter one.

In conclusion, superyachts are larger and more luxurious vessels than traditional yachts, offering a higher level of comfort and amenities.

They are also much more expensive, and are often only accessible to the wealthiest people in the world.

But for those who can afford it, superyachts offer an exclusive and luxurious experience that is second-to-none.

Size Comparison of Yachts and Superyachts

When it comes to the difference between yachts and superyachts, size is one of the most prominent distinguishing factors.

Yachts typically range from around 24 to 80 feet in length, while superyachts are much larger, often exceeding 200 feet in length.

These larger vessels offer a much more luxurious experience than their smaller counterparts, and come with a much higher price tag.

Another difference between yachts and superyachts is the level of luxury they offer.

Superyachts provide a much more luxurious experience, often featuring higher-end amenities such as spas, helipads, and swimming pools.

They also come with a range of advanced navigational and sailing technology, such as gyroscopic stabilization systems, advanced satellite navigation systems, and more.

The larger size of superyachts also allows them to travel farther than yachts, often allowing them to visit ports and destinations that would be inaccessible to smaller vessels.

This means that superyachts are ideal for taking longer trips, such as those that last for weeks or even months.

Finally, superyachts are much more exclusive than yachts, as there are far fewer of them on the market.

This means that those who can afford to purchase a superyacht are likely to feel a sense of exclusivity and privilege that comes with owning such a vessel.

Ultimately, its clear that there are a number of differences between yachts and superyachts.

While yachts offer a luxurious experience, superyachts take this experience to the next level, providing a much more exclusive and luxurious experience.

From size and amenities to navigation and sailing technology, superyachts offer a unique and luxurious experience that is unlike any other.

Cost Comparison of Yachts and Superyachts

When it comes to the differences between yachts and superyachts, cost is one of the biggest distinguishing factors.

Yachts are typically much more affordable than superyachts, with smaller vessels ranging from around 24 to 80 feet in length costing anywhere from $50,000 to $2 million.

On the other hand, superyachts are much more expensive, with vessels longer than 200 feet costing anywhere from $5 million to $400 million.

The cost of a superyacht largely depends on the size and features of the vessel.

Superyachts offer a much higher level of luxury, comfort and amenities than yachts, and are typically outfitted with the latest navigational and sailing technology, such as gyroscopic stabilization systems and advanced satellite navigation systems.

As such, they often come with a much higher price tag.

In addition to the cost of the vessel itself, there are also the associated costs of maintenance and ownership that need to be taken into account.

Superyachts typically require a much larger crew and cost more to maintain due to their size and complexity.

As such, owning a superyacht can be a costly endeavor, but one that many believe to be worth it for the luxury experience it provides.

In conclusion, there is a clear difference between yachts and superyachts, with cost being one of the most notable.

Yachts are typically much more affordable than superyachts, and offer a basic level of luxury and comfort, whereas superyachts offer a much higher level of luxury, comfort and amenities, and come with a much higher price tag.

Luxurious Amenities Offered by Superyachts

When it comes to luxury and comfort, superyachts are in a league of their own.

Superyachts are typically much larger than yachts, with some exceeding 200 feet in length, and they offer a higher level of amenities and comforts than yachts can.

Superyachts offer spacious living areas, fully equipped galleys, and all the amenities one would expect from a luxury cruise ship.

Superyacht owners also enjoy access to private pools, hot tubs, and spas, as well as a wide array of entertainment options.

Superyachts are designed with advanced navigational and sailing technology that make them perfect for long-distance cruising.

These vessels feature gyroscopic stabilization systems, which reduce the amount of rolling and pitching that can occur due to the movement of the ocean.

They also feature advanced satellite navigation systems and the latest in automated piloting technology, allowing them to sail safely and efficiently in any weather condition.

Superyachts also feature luxurious interiors that rival the best hotels and resorts.

Superyacht owners can enjoy cabin suites with private balconies, gourmet kitchens, and even private cinemas.

Superyachts also feature a variety of amenities and activities, such as swimming pools, waterslides, and even on-board karaoke bars.

In addition to the amenities and technology, superyachts also come with a team of highly trained and experienced crew members.

These crew members are responsible for the overall safety and comfort of the passengers and can provide a variety of services, from cooking to cleaning.

They can also assist passengers with any special requests they may have, such as arranging for a private chef or arranging for special activities.

Whether you’re looking for a luxurious vacation or a chance to explore the open seas, a superyacht is the perfect choice.

With its advanced navigation and sailing technology, luxurious amenities, and experienced crew, a superyacht provides a unique and unforgettable experience.

So, if you’re ready to experience the best of luxury and comfort, be sure to consider a superyacht.

Advanced Technology Found in Superyachts

When it comes to the luxurious vessels known as superyachts, advanced technology is one of the main features that sets them apart from yachts.

Superyachts are equipped with a variety of advanced technologies that can make sailing and cruising comfortable, efficient, and enjoyable.

For starters, superyachts often feature gyroscopic stabilization systems, which help keep the vessel stable even in rough seas.

These systems use multiple advanced sensors to detect any signs of instability and automatically adjust the vessel’s position accordingly.

This helps reduce motion sickness and makes for a more pleasant experience.

Superyachts also come with advanced satellite navigation systems.

These systems use GPS data combined with detailed nautical charts to give the captain accurate information about the vessel’s location, speed, and heading.

This helps the captain make informed decisions about their route and can help them avoid dangerous waters.

Finally, superyachts also come equipped with advanced communication systems.

These systems allow the captain and crew to stay in touch with the outside world, even when they are out at sea.

They also allow them to access up-to-date weather information and get assistance in case of an emergency.

When it comes to the differences between yachts and superyachts, the advanced technology found in superyachts is one of the main factors that sets them apart.

Superyachts offer a much more luxurious and comfortable experience, and the advanced technology found in these vessels makes this experience even more enjoyable.

Whether it’s for a leisurely cruise or a long-distance voyage, superyachts offer a level of luxury and comfort that yachts simply cannot match.

Pros & Cons of Yachts and Superyachts

Yachts and superyachts are both luxurious vessels that provide a unique and enjoyable experience for recreational activities, such as sailing and leisurely cruising.

However, each type of vessel has its own unique pros and cons.

Yachts, which typically range from around 24 to 80 feet in length, offer a more affordable option for those who are looking to enjoy sailing and cruising.

They are also generally easier to handle and maneuver due to their smaller size.

Additionally, some yachts are designed specifically for racing and can be quite fast.

On the other hand, superyachts, which can exceed 200 feet in length, offer a much more exclusive and luxurious experience.

They are more expensive, but they come with a higher level of luxury, comfort, and amenities.

Superyachts also feature more advanced navigational and sailing technology, such as gyroscopic stabilization systems and advanced satellite navigation systems.

This can be particularly beneficial for those who are looking for a more secure and comfortable experience.

Overall, yachts and superyachts each have their own unique pros and cons.

Yachts are a more affordable option and are easier to handle, while superyachts offer a much more luxurious experience with more advanced technology.

Ultimately, the choice between a yacht and a superyacht depends on the individuals budget and needs.

Final Thoughts

Yachts and superyachts both offer a luxurious experience for sailing and leisure activities, but there are some key differences between the two.

Yachts are typically smaller and less expensive, while superyachts are much larger, more expensive, and offer a higher level of luxury, comfort and amenities.

Superyachts also feature more advanced navigational and sailing technology.

Whether you choose a yacht or a superyacht, you are sure to have a luxurious experience.

However, if you want the ultimate in luxury and comfort, then a superyacht is the way to go.

So, if you’re looking for a luxurious experience on the open seas, be sure to do your research on yachts and superyachts to find the perfect vessel for you.

James Frami

At the age of 15, he and four other friends from his neighborhood constructed their first boat. He has been sailing for almost 30 years and has a wealth of knowledge that he wants to share with others.

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Yacht definitions: What is a yacht? And does it need to have sails?

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By far the most common question we get asked here at Motor Boat & Yachting is ‘how can you call that a yacht if it doesn’t have sails?’ Here we explain why a boat doesn’t need sails to be called a yacht...

What’s in a name? Quite a lot if you’re a yacht! Not only are the names of yachts a source of endless amusement, but by defining your boat as a yacht in the first place, you’re setting up certain expectations.

Yacht definitions: A brief history

Whilst boating for fun dates back to Ancient Egypt and possibly even further than that, the word yacht comes from the Dutch ‘jachtschip’, which means hunting ship. Jachts were originally a class of sailboat used in the 16th century to hunt down enemies of the Dutch Republic.

However by the 19th century the term ‘yachting’ had developed to mean recreational boating in general, and with the advent of steam boats, sails were no longer the only method of propulsion available to Victorian yachtsmen.

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World’s largest superyacht: Everything you need to know about 183m REV

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In the early 20th century (1904 to be precise), our humble magazine was launched under its original title The Motor Boat , but by the 1950s the ‘& Yachting’ suffix had been added to refer to the general pastime enjoyed by motorboat owners. We even reviewed the occasional motorsailer for those who liked to enjoy the benefits of both power and sail.

Today’s Motor Boat & Yachting is dedicated purely to powered leisure vessels from 25-125ft with the occasional foray above and below that when interest dictates. Current editor Hugo Andreae insists that he is ‘terminology agnostic’ saying, “I’m not bothered whether people refer to their boats as yachts, cruisers, power boats or gin palaces just so long as they enjoy using them. But for the record my 22ft Karnic is definitely a gigayacht!”

Editor Hugo’s Karnic 2250 is his family’s pride and joy, but should it be called a yacht?

What makes a yacht, a yacht?

Some would argue that a yacht has to have sails, and as we’ve seen, that was originally the case, but we here at Motor Boat & Yachting beg to differ, as its common to refer to large motorboats as motoryachts, superyachts or even megayachts without any expectation that they would have sails.

Others assert that a yacht should have to have a cabin in order for it to be fully considered a yacht, or that it has to measure at least 10m in length. If that’s the case then some longer narrowboats could be technically considered as yachts, although you’d be hard pushed to find anyone who agrees with that definition.

The final test for something to be considered a yacht is harder to pin down, but it is generally accepted that all yachts have to have a certain aesthetic or architectural appeal in order to earn this haughty moniker.

The advent of internal combustion in the 19th Century allowed motor yachts, like this fine example from Camper & Nicholsons, to be launched. Photo: Getty Images

Whether a boat is worthy of being called a yacht is clearly subjective, but there’s one thing we won’t budge over – it certainly doesn’t have to have sails!

If it’s sailing yachts specifically that you’re interested in, you won’t find many of them here, but we can heartily recommend our sister titles Yachting Monthly and Yachting World , who know much more about them than we do.

Bigger yacht definitions: Superyacht, megayacht or gigayacht?

Beyond the simple term yacht, there are a few other yacht definitions worth clarifying. The most commonly used of which is superyacht .

The debate still rages over what constitutes a superyacht. Any pleasure yacht with a load line length of 24m or more (not length overall or waterline length as is often misquoted) and a gross tonnage of 80GT is classified as a Large Yacht under MCA coding rules, causing a number of additional regulations to kick in, most crucially the requirement for the skipper to hold a commercially endorsed Yachtmaster Offshore Certificate. This is the closest thing to a technical definition of a superyacht.

At 180m Azzam is currently the largest yacht in the world, but an 183m gigayacht called REV is currently under construction in Norway. Photo: Wikimedia Commons

However, while this used to mean most leisure boats with an overall length (LOA) of 80ft or more fell into the Large Yacht category, yards have become so adept at designing bigger boats with a load line length of just under 24m that many craft with an LOA of 90ft or more still count as regular pleasure vessels.

For that reason some people prefer to use the simpler definition of a superyacht being any privately owned vessel with an LOA of 100ft or more. Even then some would argue that a true superyacht should be a custom built yacht of at least 35m or 120ft.

Such is the inflationary pressure on yacht sizes and terminology that the term superyacht itself has begun to lose currency among the yachting elite. Owners of craft over 50m now use the term megayacht to categorise their larger vessels, while the lesser-spotted gigayacht is reserved for yachts over 100m.

Fewer than 100 gigayachts have been built to date, making this the rarest of rare breeds. That said with the world’s largest yacht now measuring over 183m, it’s surely only a matter of time before the 200m mark will be broken and yet another term will be needed. Got any suggestions? Drop us an e-mail: [email protected]

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A Brief History of Superyachts

And how they explain the world..

Tim Murphy January+February 2024 Issue

James Clapham

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When the US targeted Russia’s oligarchs after the invasion of Ukraine, the trail of assets kept leading to our own backyard. Not only had our nation become a haven for shady foreign money, but we were also incubating a familiar class of yacht-owning, industry-dominating, resource-extracting billionaires. In the  January + February 2024  issue of our magazine, we investigate the rise of American Oligarchy—and what it means for the rest of us. You can read all the pieces  here .

The luxury yacht may be the world’s most exclusive form of transportation. But there are only a hundred-some that meet the definition of a gigayacht—a pleasure craft 295 feet or longer. Their opaque ownership records offer a glimpse of modern wealth and power: Over two dozen are linked to Gulf royals, businessmen, or states, and 20 to citizens (past or current) of the former Soviet Union. At least 23 have reportedly belonged to Americans, including founders of Microsoft, Netscape, Amazon, WhatsApp, and Snapchat. The widow of a German retailer who thrived under Hitler owned one; a UK tax exile and a Formula 1 dad still do. Yugoslav strongman Tito’s old yacht makes the list; Dominican dictator Trujillo’s does too. Take a cruise through the history of the vessels and their—somewhat—more modest sister ships.

1895: Nineteen years before World War I, the future King Edward VII of England punches his nephew, Kaiser Wilhelm II, in the face, after the German’s 121-foot yacht, Meteor II , defeats the royal Britannia in a race off the Isle of Wight.

1954: Greek shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis ushers in an era of postwar one-upmanship with his 325-foot Christina O . It features a pool that converts into a dance floor, furniture made from whale foreskin, and pornographic carvings.

1963: During his final birthday party aboard the presidential yacht Sequoia , JFK chases future Washington Post editor Ben Bradlee’s wife, Antoinette, into the bathroom and gropes her. “I guess I was pretty surprised, but I was kind of flattered, and appalled, too,” she says later. The ship’s visitor logs are destroyed after Kennedy’s assassination.

1984: King Fahd of Saudi Arabia builds the record-breaking 482-foot Prince Abdulaziz .

1987: Sen. Gary Hart (D-Colo.) drops out of the presidential race just before photos emerge of him with model Donna Rice aboard the yacht Monkey Business .

1988: Donald Trump acquires Nabila , which previously belonged to the Saudi arms dealer Adnan Khashoggi and was featured in the James Bond film Never Say Never Again . He renames it Trump Princess , adds a disco, and changes the helipad’s “H” to a “T.”

1991: After one of Trump’s casinos files for bankruptcy, he sells Trump Princess to his bank—which flips it to a Saudi prince. A new yacht, the Trump Princess II , which he boasted would be “something in excess of 400 feet long, closer to 500 feet,” is never built.

British publisher Robert Maxwell’s body is found in the Atlantic Ocean, where he had been cruising on a 180-footer named for his daughter—the Lady Ghislaine . The vessel is eventually resold to Anna Murdoch, Rupert’s second wife.

1994: At a cocktail party on the oligarch Petr Aven’s yacht in the Caribbean, Boris Berezovsky meets Roman Abramovich, calling him a “nice boy who wanted to discuss commercial projects.” He and Abramovich begin working together to acquire Sibneft, a Russian state oil company.

1997: Construction ends on The Limited and Victoria’s Secret owner Les Wexner’s ­316-foot Limitless . The project was overseen by his good friend Jeffrey Epstein.

1999: Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison buys the 191-foot Izanami from a Japanese seller. He changes the name to Ronin , he said later , after “the local newspapers started pointing out that Izanami was ‘I’m a Nazi’ spelled backwards.”

2001: Months before Enron files for bankruptcy, former CEO Jeffrey Skilling asks a company executive for advice on finding a yacht broker. “This industry is known for crooks and thieves,” he warns Skilling.

2002: House Majority Whip Tom DeLay (R-Texas) promises to strip “corporate kingpins of their ill-gotten gains,” after scandals rock Enron and WorldCom. “We’re coming after the yacht.”

2003: DeLay charges donors $500,000 a pop for tickets to a yacht cruise.

2005: Ellison shoots down rumors he issued orders midconstruction to have his newest yacht, the 454-foot Rising Sun , extended to outdo Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen’s recently launched 414-foot Octopus .

Rep. Duke Cunningham (R-Calif.) pleads guilty to federal bribery charges after being caught living rent-free on a yacht, called the Duke-Stir , that was moored in Washington, DC, and owned by a defense contractor.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s 531-foot Dubai surpasses Prince Abdulaziz as the world’s longest yacht.

2006: Media mogul Barry Diller reveals the world’s longest sailing yacht, the 305-foot Eos , whose prow features a 9-foot-tall sculpture of his wife, Diane von Furstenberg.

2007: Diller opens a Manhattan corporate headquarters­­ at a Frank Gehry­–designed building that itself has been likened to a sailboat . It’s across the street from where Eos ties up.

2008: George Osborne, the No. 2 official in the UK’s Conservative Party, relaxes on Russian aluminum magnate Oleg Deripaska’s yacht while vacationing with his family in Greece. He denies an accusation that he solicited funds, explaining in a statement that they discussed “Russian history” and drank tea.

2009: As his marriage falls apart, Tiger Woods retreats to a 155-foot yacht called Privacy .

2010: Abramovich’s new ship, Eclipse , surpasses Dubai as the world’s longest yacht. The 533-foot vessel features a submarine, anti-missile systems, and lasers to thwart paparazzi .

2011: During an unsuccessful suit seeking $5 billion he believed Abramovich owed him from the sale of Sibneft, an exiled Berezovsky claims that his former partner helped purchase the yacht Olympia for Vladimir Putin. When the BBC publishes a supporting account from another Russian businessman five years later, Abramovich’s lawyers dismiss the allegation as “a rehash of speculation and rumours.”

2012: As GOP presidential candidate Mitt Romney faces criticism for holding investment funds in the Cayman Islands, his campaign invites donors to party on Cracker Bay . The ship, owned by the founder of The Villages retirement community, flies the Cayman Islands’ flag.

2013: UAE leader Khalifa bin Zayed al Nahyan launches the 593-foot Azzam , surpassing the Eclipse .

2014: The Wall Street Journal reports that Ellison has basketball hoops on “at least two of his yachts” and had someone follow in a smaller boat “to retrieve balls that go overboard.”

2016: Allen’s Tatoosh drags its anchor through a protected zone in the Cayman Islands, destroying 14,000 square feet of coral.

2017: After leaving office, Barack and Michelle Obama retreat to the South Pacific aboard David Geffen’s yacht, where they’re joined by Oprah, Tom Hanks, and Bruce Springsteen.

Abramovich’s business partner, Eugene Shvidler, blocks views of the Statue of Liberty while anchoring his 370-foot Le Grand Bleu in New York Harbor for a month.

Addressing the national Boy Scout Jamboree, Trump tells an anecdote widely assumed to allude to sex parties on a yacht belonging to the developer of the Levittown suburbs. “You’re Boy Scouts, so I’m not going to tell you what he did,” he said. “But you know life.”

Rep. Vern Buchanan (R-Fla.) buys a yacht and on the same day votes to cut taxes on yachts.

2018: Rupert Murdoch is airlifted to UCLA after collapsing on a yacht trip with his fourth wife, Jerry Hall. “He kept almost dying,” a source tells Vanity Fair .

Republican Florida Gov. Rick Scott designates a billionaire donor’s marina as a special anti-­poverty opportunity zone.

Someone unties Seaquest , a superyacht belonging to Trump administration Secretary of Education (and billionaire) Betsy DeVos, causing it to crash into a dock on Lake Erie.

Businessman Jho Low, who financed The Wolf of Wall Street , is accused of taking part in a $4.5 billion scheme to siphon Malaysian state development funds and using some to purchase a $250 million yacht.

2019: Actress Lori Loughlin is arrested in a college admissions bribery scheme . Her daughter, USC student Olivia Jade, is vacationing in the Bahamas— on a yacht belonging to USC board of trustees chair Rick Caruso.

Following an investigation into corruption in the Nigerian oil industry, the US government auctions off businessman Kolawole Aluko’s Galactica Star , six years after Jay-Z rented out the vessel for Beyoncé’s 32nd birthday. A former Enron unit attempts to claim a portion of the proceeds.

Clarence Thomas visits an Indonesian preserve for Komodo dragons with billionaire Harlan Crow on the conservative megadonor’s Michaela Rose .

ArtNet reports that a $450 million (reputed) da Vinci that was supposed to be in an Abu Dhabi museum has been spotted hanging in Mohammed bin Salman’s personal yacht, Serene .

Kylie Jenner holds her 22nd birthday party on Low’s yacht, now under new ownership.

2020: “[I]solated in the Grenadines avoiding the virus,” Geffen writes on Instagram from Rising Sun , which he purchased in 2010. “I’m hoping everybody is staying safe.”

Steve Bannon is arrested off the coast of Connecticut by US Postal Police while aboard the fugitive Chinese billionaire Guo Wengui’s 150-foot Lady May .

Liberty University President Jerry Falwell Jr. dresses up as a character from the TV show Trailer Park Boys for a costume party aboard a NASCAR mogul’s yacht. He later posts a photo of himself to Instagram with his fly unzipped and his arms around his wife’s assistant.

2021: NRA CEO Wayne LaPierre testifies that he took refuge on Illusions , a Hollywood producer’s yacht, after the Newtown and Parkland mass shootings. “I remember getting there going, ‘Thank God I’m safe, nobody can get me here.’”

During a bitter divorce, the Daily Mail reports that Tatiana Akhmedova, wife of the Russian Azerbaijani billionaire Farkhad Akhmedov, hired a team of British special forces veterans to seize his yacht, Luna , in an effort to enforce a Marshall Islands court ruling. They settle instead, and he keeps the boat.

Port Azure , dubbed the world’s first harbor designed exclusively for megayachts, opens in Gocek, Turkey. It bills itself as a place where “problems big and small go away.”

2022: Amid reports a historic bridge will be dismantled so Amazon founder Jeff Bezos’ newly built Koru can leave Rotterdam’s shipyards, residents threaten to pelt the sailboat with eggs . The city changes plans.

A Ukrainian mechanic is arrested in Mallorca for attempting to sink a vessel owned by his boss, a Russian arms dealer.

Biden promises oligarchs he’s going to “take their ill-begotten gains” after the invasion of Ukraine. “We’re going to seize their yachts.”

Washington Commanders owner Dan Snyder avoids a congressional subpoena on the team’s misogynistic culture while cruising the Mediterranean on his yacht, Lady S .

Missing Russian superyachts are spotted waiting out sanctions at Port Azure.

Sen. Rick Scott (R-Fla.) criticizes Joe Biden for vacationing in Delaware while vacationing on a luxury yacht in Italy.

After sailing through Fiji on his yacht Aquarius , briefly retired Disney CEO Bob Iger tells friends he misses his wife and is bored with life.

New York Republican congressional candidate George Santos brokers a $19 million deal to sell a superyacht called Namaste to a Long Island car dealer.

Bankrupt crypto exchange FTX reveals in court filings that founder Sam Bankman-Fried’s hedge fund once spent $2.5 million on a yacht, which a top executive named Soak My Deck .

2023: Bezos takes possession of Koru . The $500 million, 417-foot sailboat comes with a bust that resembles his fiancée Lauren Sánchez—and its own second, 246-foot “shadow” support yacht with crew quarters and a hangar for the helicopter she pilots.

After divorcing Jerry Hall, Rupert Murdoch vacations on the Christina O with Abramovich’s ex-mother-in-law.

As TV and movie writers and actors strike, the Wall Street Journal reports that Iger, now back at work, has been regaling visitors to his Burbank office about the new, longer yacht he’s building.

Measuring Contest

Iconic gigayachts through the years

1931: Sea Cloud , Marjorie Post: 359 ft.

1981: Atlantis II , Stavros Niarchos: 380 ft.

2003: Octopus , Paul Allen: 414 ft.

2005: Rising Sun , Larry Ellison: 454 ft.

2010: Eclipse , Roman Abramovich: 533 ft.

2013: Azzam , Sheikh Khalifa: 593 ft.

Illustrations by Anthony Calvert

The Few, The Loud

Some famous faces aboard gigayachts

Steven Spielberg reeled out his anchor off Cannes.

A part of Katy Perry got stuck exiting a dinghy on her way to Barry Diller’s yacht.

Mohammed bin Salman purchased his yacht, Serene , just hours after he saw it.

Jerry Jones made a draft pick aboard his Bravo Eugenia to deepen the Cowboys’ bench.

Mariah Carey was engaged to a gigayacht owner, before the fantasy ended.

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Yacht classification definitions

The merchant shipping sector is ruled by safety regulations developed since the beginning of the 20th century, and is familiar with international conventions such as SOLAS, MARPOL and Load Lines. But the application of common safety requirements to pleasure vessels is something relatively new – a continuous work in progress – and is very much dependant on the service and the flag of the yacht.

Defining the problems

Definitions do not help. How often have we read of large yachts, superyachts, megayachts, gigayachts or other bombastic adjectives? How many times have we mentioned MCA, RINA, and Lloyd’s, without having a clear idea of who’s doing what?

A good starting point for understanding the subject is to clarify the main definitions and the roles of the main players:

Large yacht

A large yacht is a pleasure vessel with a load line length equal to or over 24m. Almost all the flag administrations have adopted safety codes dedicated to large yachts and this is, therefore, the only definition having a universal meaning in the international regulatory framework of yachts.

Commercial yacht

A motor or sailing vessel in commercial use (i.e. charter) for sport and pleasure, carrying no cargo and not more than 12 passengers.

Private yacht

A pleasure vessel solely used for the recreational and leisure purpose of its owner and his guests.

Flag administration

The government of the state whose flag the yacht is entitled to fly . This administration sets the safety regulations, manning requirements and fiscal aspects relevant to the yacht registration.

Different flag administrations can inspect the safety aspects of yachts with their own inspectors (see MCA for example) or delegate this activity partially or totally to other recognised bodies such as the classification societies.

The main flag authorities in the yachting industry are: The UK-MCA, Cayman Islands, Isle of Man, Malta, the Marshall Islands, Italy and Luxembourg.

Classification societies

Organisations that establish and apply technical standards in relation to the design, construction and survey of ships.

Classification rules are developed to assess the structural strength and integrity of the essential parts of the hull, the reliability and function of the propulsion, steering systems, power generation and all the other features installed on board which contribute to guarantee the main essential services.

In addition to this ‘third party check’ function, class societies carry out statutory duties on behalf of the major flag administrations in accordance with specific delegation agreements signed with each government.

The main class societies involved in yachting are: American Bureau of Shipping, Bureau Veritas, Det Norske Veritas, Germanischer Lloyd, Lloyd’s Register, and RINA.

Large yachts: Applicable rules and certificates

Private yachts

The mandatory requirements for these boats are very light. For the majority of flag states, a registration survey and a tonnage measurement, carried out by an authorised surveyor, are sufficient.

The only mandatory international conventions are those relevant to the marine environment: MARPOL and the Anti-Fouling System Convention.

The International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL) is intended to eliminate the intentional pollution and to minimise the accidental pollution of the marine environment caused by harmful substances.

The Anti-Fouling System Convention’s purpose is to eliminate the presence of harmful substances for the marine environment contained in anti-fouling paints applied to ships.

Classification

While classification is not mandatory, building and maintaining a private yacht in class is the only evidence that the boat has been designed, constructed and operated in compliance with appropriate technical standards. It is therefore highly desirable, especially in relation to insurance and re-sale purposes.

Commercial yachts

All flag administrations require commercial yachts to be certified in accordance with a specific large yacht safety code.

The most popular of these safety codes, and the first that was developed, is the MCA Large Commercial Yacht Code (LY2) published in 2004. It replaced the Code of Practice for the Safety of Large Commercial Sailing and Motor Vessels (LY1) published in 1997.

LY2 is applied by the Red Ensign Group Flags (UK, Cayman Islands, Isle of Man, Bermuda, Gibraltar, British Virgin Islands, etc.) and is recognised as a reference standard for all the yachting industry.

Other flags have developed similar codes. Luxembourg, Italy, Marshall Islands, Malta, Belize and The Netherlands are some examples.

While introducing a stricter set of rules and regulations compared to private yachts, commercial registration offers yacht owners the possibility of making a profit from the chartering activity of their boats, and allows them to take advantage of all the other benefits of a commercial operation (in particular VAT exemption on the purchase, sale, bunkering, provisions, dry-docking, and others).

Mandatory certificates

The number and type of the mandatory certificates depends on the size of the vessel; the following is an indicative list:

• International Tonnage Certificate : A measurement of the internal volumes of the yacht expressed in gross tons (GT). This measurement should not be confused with displacement tonnage, which quantifies the weight of a vessel.
• Large Yacht Code Certificate : Covers life-saving appliances, fire protection and means of escape, navigational and signalling equipment, intact and damaged stability, manning and crew accommodation.
• Class Certificate : This mainly deals with the yacht’s hull, machinery, electrical equipment and outfitting.
• International Load Line Certificate : This certifies the weather-tightness of the yacht.
• Safety Radio Certificate : This is applicable if gross tonnage exceeds 300GT This concerns the radio communication and distress installations.
• MARPOL Annex I Certificate : This is applicable if gross tonnage exceeds 400GT This deals with the disposal of oil and bilge water from machinery spaces.
• MARPOL Annex IV Certificate : This is applicable if gross tonnage exceeds 400 or the yacht is certified to carry over 15 persons. This deals with the disposal of sewage from ships.
• MARPOL Annex V : This is applicable to all ships. It covers the disposal of rubbish.
• MARPOL Annex VI : This is applicable if gross tonnage exceeds 400GT as well as to all main and auxiliary engines with a power exceeding 130kW. It concerns the emissions from main and auxiliary engines (NOx and SOx).
• Safety Construction and Safety Equipment : These are additional prescriptions on machinery, electrical parts, life-saving and navigational equipment for yachts with a gross tonnage above 500GT.
• International Safety Management Certificate : This is only applicable to yachts having a gross tonnage greater than 500GT. A certified management company is requested to carry out this service, preparing operational manuals, procedures for drills, and taking care of the maintenance of the yacht and its installations.
• International Ship and Port Security Certificate : This is only applicable to yachts having a gross tonnage greater than 500GT and deals with the anti-piracy certification. A certified management company is requested to provide the ashore assistance and establish on-board procedures and operational manuals.

The GT Factor

The gross tonnage value (GT) is a key issue, not only as a reference for the registration fees applied by the different flag administrations, but also because it determines whether an international convention, rather than a particular safety standard, applies to a yacht.

The table below summarises how the conventions and relevant certificates come into force depending on the gross tonnage of the yacht. In particular, the following values may have a critical impact:

300GT: In many codes, when you reach this value the yacht must be certified in unrestricted service (stricter requirements regarding stability, load line and life-saving appliances).

400GT: This is the threshold for almost all the environmental conventions such as MARPOL and Anti-fouling System.

500GT: This is the threshold for the application of the SOLAS Convention, meaning stricter requirements on machinery, safety systems, materials of construction, fire protection, life-saving appliances and navigational equipment. Furthermore an external certified management company is requested for the ISM and ISPS certifications.

The tonnage issue could also arise on existing yachts when undertaking major refits or modifications, in that any change to the internal volumes of the boat – such as adding enclosed deckhouses or superstructures, or modifying the hull transom or bow – will modify the tonnage value with the risk of subjecting the yacht to stricter mandatory rules.

UPDATE: Since this article was originally published, LY2 has been superseded by Large Commercial Yacht Code Revision 3 (LY3) .

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How Much Does a Superyacht Cost?

21st apr 2024 by samantha wilson.

Superyachts are some of the most astounding machines on the planet. Their innovation and luxury have fascinated us for decades as we’ve watched them grow in length—and cost—by the year. Today, some of the most expensive yachts in the world can measure a staggering 590 feet and cost hundreds of millions of dollars. Yet the purchase price is just the beginning, and you need to have extremely deep pockets to consider owning a superyacht. Here we take a closer look at how much it costs not just to build or buy a superyacht, but to run it, as well as the price of chartering one of these magnificent vessels. 

Superyachts are some of the most expensive luxury items on the planet and the largest ones can cost hundreds of millions of dollars. 

The Cost of Buying a Superyacht

There are 5,396 superyachts (classified as over 98 feet in length) gracing our oceans as we speak according to SuperYacht Times reporting in 2022. It’s a surprisingly small number when you consider the vast industry that supports them. Although when we look at the cost of owning a superyacht—the build or purchase price , as well as the annual ownership costs—it perhaps shouldn’t come as quite such a surprise. Superyachts are expensive! In fact, they’re one of the most expensive luxury items in the world, and some of the largest superyachts cost not just millions but hundreds of millions to build. 

The gargantuan Azzam holds the title of the world’s largest superyacht (for now), and at 590 feet long, it is huge. (See our analysis on Superyacht versus Megayacht .) The industry has estimated it cost $600 million to build, a figure that few people in the world can afford. One of those people is Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich, whose 533-foot superyacht Eclipse cost an estimated $700 million to build in 2009. Jeff Bezos' recently completed the 417-foot superyacht Koru for an estimated $500 million.

While the largest superyachts hit headlines with their jaw-dropping sizes and build prices, the term “superyacht” covers a broad spectrum of sizes, from the smallest 80- to 100-foot (30-meter) yachts straight up to 230-foot yachts (70 meters) and on to those in the 330-foot (100 meter) range. According to Triton Charters, a good rough estimate for a small, custom-built superyacht is $1 million for every 3.3 feet in length. That means a custom 100-footer might cost $30 million. The formula is less likely to work for a larger superyacht, however, such as a 330-footer that could easily have a price tag of $275 million. 

When discussing prices it’s important to point out that custom and semi-custom vessels built in a production series hull) superyachts will vary in price accordingly. Many brands such as Princess Yachts or Sunseeker offer a production hull with a range of customizable options, from the layout to the finishings. The specifications chosen may increase the final price 20 percent or more. Even so, a new 130-foot semi-custom superyacht might cost in the region of $12-15 million, less than half what a fully custom yacht would cost due to being built from scratch from the very design upwards. 

Pre-owned superyachts of reasonably large size are likely to sell for prices in the $20 to $30 million range, according to a report by Insure4Boats. Older yachts on the market may fetch prices as low as $1.5 million to $2.5 million for a 15- to 20-year-old 90-foot superyacht. 

Superyachts vary hugely in size, from 100 feet to the largest at 590 feet in length. 

Cost of Owning a Superyacht

Buying a superyacht is one thing, keeping it running is quite another. Where the industry once used the figure of 10 to 12 percent of the price of the boat in running costs per year, today that figure has risen to closer to 20 percent, according to Insure4Boats. So what goes into the running of a boat and why does it cost so much?

As we’ve seen, the sale prices of used yachts vary widely, from $11 million in the 130- to 160-foot category, $24 million in the 160- to 230-foot category, and perhaps $80 million for yachts of 230 feet or more. The running and maintenance costs of any vessel always need to be taken into account when looking at luxury yachts for sale , but when we’re talking superyachts for sale, the figures rise exponentially. 

• Fuel: One of the biggest expenses is fuel, as superyachts are thirsty machines. As an example, a 230-foot yacht will use around $2,000 of fuel per hour while underway at 20 knots. A smaller yacht will use much less fuel, so a 150-foot yacht will use around 150 gallons per hour at a rough cost of around $500/hour. Assuming a figure of 500 hours of cruising time a year, that’s a total of $250,000 (excluding all the time spent at anchor with generators running). 
• Dockage: Dockage costs for the largest superyachts can be extraodinary, and at any size point they will still be one the biggest expenditures. Prices are based on the length of the yacht per night. The more sought-after and prestigious addresses will carry the largest price tags, with $4,000 per night in the high season commonplace according to the Luxury Yacht Group. Towergate Insurance estimates that docking fees for larger boats can run up to $350,000 per year. 
• Crew Salaries: Depending on the size of the superyacht, a full-time crew is usually required, and the size of that crew goes up with the yacht size, ranging from three or four members to in excess of 70 members. From the captain all the way down, the total sum of crew salaries will add up. A comparatively modest 150-foot superyacht could have an annual crew salary of $800,000 according to Luxury Yacht Group, which is around 45 percent of the total annual running costs. 
• Maintenance: The upkeep and maintenance of these behemoth yachts is constant and, according to CNN, the annual estimated maintenance costs for Azzam are around $60 million. A much smaller yacht would of course be quite a bit less, but the same yacht maintenance costs need to be factored in. Add to that surveys every few years, which can run into the hundreds of thousands. 
• Provisions: Whether the boat is being used by the owner or for charter, there will be a significant cost to provisioning, both for high-profile guests and the crew. Food, alcohol, flowers, water sports equipment, and much more will all be of the highest caliber and run into the hundreds of thousands of dollars. Consider that a single jet ski to run off the back of the yacht can cost between $5,000 and $20,000. 
• Insurance and administration: The insurance on a 150-foot yacht would be around $73,000 annually, according to Luxury Yacht Group, with management and administration costs on top of that. 

The annual maintenance and running costs of superyachts can run into the millions including crew salaries, fuel, and dockage fees. 

How Much Does it Cost to Charter a Superyacht

If the numbers above have got you reassessing whether superyacht ownership is right for you, then fear not. Chartering a superyacht can be a stress-free way to enjoy the luxury yachting lifestyle with more predictable prices. The cost of chartering a yacht will depend on several factors such as the size and age of the yacht, the destination, the length of the charter, and the level of provisioning required. 

Superyachts usually operate on a pricing structure that is based on the base cost of chartering the yacht including the crew, facilities, and insurance. Other expenses such as fuel costs, food and drinks, special events, and dockage, which will all vary from charter to charter, are charged in advance in what is known as an Advanced Provisioning Allowance (APA).

According to Northrop and Johnson, superyacht charters can cost anywhere from $150,000 per week to over $2 million per week plus expenses. The 278-foot yacht O’ptasia , for example, has charter prices starting at $868,000, while 196-foot Scott Free starts at £395,000 per week.

Buying a Superyacht

If you think purchasing a superyacht might be right for you some day, read our  Top Tips on How to Buy a Superyacht  and our article on  Superyachts 101: All Your Questions Answered . You can get started by browsing for superyachts for sale and megayachts for sale on Rightboat. 

Written By: Samantha Wilson

Samantha Wilson has spent her entire life on and around boats, from tiny sailing dinghies all the way up to superyachts. She writes for many boating and yachting publications, top charter agencies, and some of the largest travel businesses in the industry, combining her knowledge and passion of boating, travel and writing to create topical, useful and engaging content.

More from: Samantha Wilson

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A day in the life of a superyacht captain

It’s easy to think that a captain’s job is to drive a superyacht to glamorous locations and drop the anchor in idyllic anchorages, but as Kelly Gordon and other captains will tell you, that’s only a tiny part of the role. 

For Kelly Gordon, captaining a superyacht was something she never imagined until she had already started a career as a chemistry professor when a chance encounter at a party on a large motor yacht changed everything. Now, having uncovered her passion for the sea and having achieved the ultimate position as a superyacht captain, Gordon is not only a role model for female crew who want to pursue a career on the deck and engineering side of superyachts, but is also an active advocate of crew mental health. But what exactly does a superyacht captain do, and is it just about driving the yacht from A to B and making sure the crew keep it in top condition?

The simple answer, says Gordon, is no – and in fact the role of a modern yacht captain is highly complex and multifaceted. Take Gordon’s current command, for example – a 33-metre private yacht that cruises extensively with the owning family on board. “My responsibilities of course encompass safely operating and navigating the boat – that’s the technical side of it,” Gordon begins. “But actually the smallest element is navigation and operation, and the far bigger side is crew management. I spend a tremendous amount of time with the crew, making sure everyone’s got what they need.

“Along with that too,” she continues, “is making sure that the owners and their family have what they need, and understanding what their plans are. Where do they want to go? What are they wanting to do? It’s about making sure they are always well cared for.”

Changing landscapes

The early days of yachting were, in some ways, a much simpler time. Yachts on average were smaller, and captains and crews often came from a sailing or boating background. There were elements that a captain had to understand and undertake, such as holding a recognised commercial skipper’s ticket, keeping logs, managing the yacht’s accounts and so on. But as the fleet has grown and as yachts have grown, so too have the duties expected of captains.

“As a captain, especially the larger and larger you go in terms of yacht, you become the CEO of a company in a way,” Gordon offers. “But you’re doing what you’re trained to do. To operate and navigate the yacht actually ends up being the smaller percentage of what you do, and the day-to-day is emails, paperwork, schedules, plans, maintenance if you’re in the shipyard, and whether you charter or are private you still need to know where the boss or potential guest wants to go, and show them a good time.”

Paper tigers

One thing that has definitely changed over time is the increasing burden of paperwork related to regulatory elements such as the International Safety Management code (ISM) and in some cases the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code (ISPS). “The biggest change I’ve seen since I started is a regulatory change,” offers Captain Steve Osborne . “I find myself spending more and more time on more and more paperwork. There’s a lot of delegation you can do, but you have to really start to understand a lot of the legal frameworks of where you’re going [with the yacht] and be a bit more cautious and pay a bit more attention, because rules have changed over time and are a bit more stringent now.”

Gordon agrees that the burdens have increased, but also argues that there are benefits. “The paperwork has grown, but I think it’s a good thing,” she asserts. “I actually think there probably can stand to be a little more regulation in the industry. When I talk to my buddies who are working on commercial vessels and I see how things are done – granted, they have their own sets of issues as well – I think it’s good that we take a page or two out of their book.”

Mind over matter

One of the biggest elements of being a superyacht captain is being able to look after a superyacht crew, and that means not only nurturing and mentoring crew members but also, increasingly, being aware of other issues that can arise – particularly when crews are living in close quarters and working long hours.

“The driving-the-boat bit is easy, that’s our bread and butter,” says Captain Matthew Pownell-Jones. “It’s the other stuff that no one actually teaches you – how to care about the crew, how to listen to someone who has maybe just joined the crew and has a problem that no one knows about. The crew is a floating family, and if that’s the way you think of it then that’s how I feel a team works well.”

It’s something that Gordon has put front and centre not only of how she runs her own yacht and crew, but also of raising awareness in the industry of the importance of mental health considerations. “I’m pretty hard-charging in the mental health space for crew and the yachting industry,” she says. “I’m determined that we will see change, and will see a better and safer workplace for crew, both in terms of general safety on board and also in terms of mental safety.

“I’m not that old – I am only 42 – and just over the course of my life and in my 15 years in this industry I’ve seen it change in terms of being able to talk about it, and it being accepted as a conversation and as part of our overall health. It’s so important because on board we don’t work a nine-to-five then clock out and get to go home to our safe space.”

Guest appearance

For all the paperwork, planning and crew management, there is of course the part that makes superyachting what it is – yacht owners and yacht charterers enjoying what a superyacht offers and the places it can take them. It’s perhaps the final piece of the puzzle for an experienced superyacht captain.

“For private cruising or for yacht charter alike, first of all, you want to make sure the yacht is clean and ready to present to the boss or the guests and that each crew member knows who’s doing what,” Gordon enthuses. “If it’s a little booze cruise, the stews need make sure all the drinks are on board and that the yacht interior looks pretty nice and warm and fuzzy. My engineer has to make sure everything’s operating and working, and then the guys on deck make sure that everything’s taken care of on the exterior.

“Then with me, it’s communicating back and forth with the family or the charter guests as to where they want to go or what they want to do, and then communicating that to my crew. And when it gets busy and the days get long, with the crew potentially on call, I try to balance everything by making sure everyone is getting breaks, and offsetting the crews’ functions so that there’s always someone up with the guests and always someone getting some rest to be able to relieve whoever’s on duty.

“People ask me that the best part of my job as captain is outside being able to utilise my skill of navigation and operation of the yacht,” she concludes, “and my favourite part of the job is also the most difficult part – and that’s the crew. I love them to death. My current boat is a happy, fun, loving, playful, hard-working professional boat, but it’s taken a long time to put that together. If you work at it as a captain and you put the time in and invest in finding and mentoring, you can create that.”

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Love Exploring

15 Extraordinary Superyachts Setting Sail In 2024

Posted: March 19, 2024 | Last updated: March 19, 2024

Breathtaking dream boats launching this year

Ready to discover the ultimate in nautical eye candy?

With the largest-ever superyacht poised to grace the high seas – and several other spectacular launches on the horizon – 2024 is tipped to be a truly unforgettable year for fans of floating palaces.

Click or scroll through to jump aboard the most hotly anticipated superyachts scheduled for delivery this year, from state-of-the-art explorers to a record-breaking model that's expected to cost a staggering $600 million. 

All dollar amounts in US dollars.

Custom YS 75 Hybrid: Cost unknown

Ushering in a new generation of high-end eco explorers, this expedition vessel from Damen Yachting in the Netherlands boasts a hybrid propulsion system for zero-emission cruising. For the uninitiated, a hybrid propulsion system uses two or more forms of propulsion, such as a biofuel or diesel engine combined with an electric machine.

As buyers become increasingly aware of environmental concerns, naval architects and yachtbuilders are devising green-leaning vessels that don't compromise on style, luxury, or performance. Damen is among the firms leading the way.

Designed by innovative London studio Michael Leach Design and engineered in-house, the 247-foot Custom YS 75 Hybrid has cutting-edge features, including a touch-and-go helipad and a crane for deploying tenders.

It can accommodate 24 crew members and up to 12 guests across six staterooms and boasts plush entertaining areas.

Due to launch early this year, the innovative vessel will also be the first private superyacht equipped with commercial-grade cultivation pods to grow vegetables, further adding to its eco credentials. As for the price tag? Damen is keeping it firmly under wraps...

Blue Marlin and Custom 78: Cost unknown

Admiral Yachts, owned by The Italian Sea Group, is delivering two sensational superyachts this year, according to Boat International : the 256-foot Custom 78 a nd 253-foot Blue Marlin (pictured).

Sleek and elegant, Blue Marlin's exterior and interior are both the handiwork of prestigious Dutch studio Sinot Yacht Architecture and Design.

The superyacht accommodates 12 guests in six staterooms and offers them a wealth of amenities, including a 19-foot swimming pool, a private spa, and a helipad. Its more sustainable credentials include a lower-emission diesel-electric propulsion system.

Precious little is known about Admiral's super-secretive Custom 78 project, as noted by Boat International .

It's known that the superyacht's exterior has been designed by Igor Lobanov, the Barcelona-based Russian nautical designer who's renowned for his futuristic, mega-streamlined creations. (An example of his work is shown here.)

Admiral has yet to disclose the price of either  Custom 78 or  Blue Marlin .

Project Toro: Cost unknown

Türkiye's Turquoise Yachts is getting ready to sign off the 259-foot Project Toro . It's actually running behind schedule and was supposed to be delivered last year.

With the exterior and interiors designed by British studio Harrison Eidsgaard – which is behind some of the world's most luxurious private jets, in addition to its portfolio of yachts – the end result will undoubtedly be a feast for the eyes.

Project Toro's neoclassical exterior is a real head-turner, while its interiors – which apparently include "a huge Neptune Lounge," to quote Super Yacht Times – have been described by the design team as "the definition of serenity and calm."

The fully customized beauty, which was sold in 2021 for an undisclosed sum, can comfortably fit 14 guests in its seven staterooms, as well as providing space for 21 crew members. Amenities onboard include a beauty salon, gym, and swimming pool.

Al Reem: Cost unknown

Formally known as  Silence , Al Reem is getting its finishing touches at the Bilgin shipyard in Türkiye's capital, Istanbul.

Spanning 263 feet, the superyacht showcases Bilgin's signature style – think razor-sharp exterior lines and a super-slender profile – with naval architecture by Turkish studio Unique Yacht Design. It's the third unit of Bilgin's 263 Series and the most advanced of the trio.

Silent by name, silent by nature: the superyacht was sold to a mystery owner in 2022 and the selling price hasn't been revealed. But it won't have come cheap, that's for sure.

Dreamed up by London's H2 Yacht Design, the modern interiors of the boat whisper quiet luxury. The eight suites (including three VIP cabins) can collectively accommodate up to 12 guests, and there's space for 18 crew members. Al Reem's amenities are top-notch too, with the beach club, gym, and movie theater just some of the standout features.

Project Vento: Cost unknown

Just weeks after Project Toro was sold in 2021, Turquoise Yachts found a buyer for Project Vento . As is the case with Project Toro , the identity of the owner and the price tag have not been divulged.

At 285 feet long, Project Vento is the largest superyacht ever built by Turquoise, with the company teaming up with long-time collaborator London's H2 Yacht Design to work on the boat's esthetics. The result? A distinctive two-tone white and blue exterior with soft, flowing lines.

The interiors are just as eye-catching, with the superyacht boasting a wealth of features.

For the billionaire who has everything, there's a helipad that can also be used as an outdoor movie theater and basketball court. But the pièce de résistance  has to be the incredible 21-foot glass-sided swimming pool on the lowest deck.

Project 1012: Cost unknown

With the venture cloaked in mystery, Feadship hasn't released any renders of Project 1012 and has yet to disclose information about the team behind it.

Based on images of the vessel undergoing trials in December 2022, Megayacht News has speculated that it could be traditional in design and may feature a beach club. However, these details won't be confirmed until the superyacht is delivered sometime this year – so watch this space...

Project 1012 is another Feadship superyacht that's slated for delivery in 2024.

The shipyard is being particularly secretive about the vessel, with details extremely sketchy. While we know that the superyacht is 300 feet long, further information about the vessel is next to non-existent.

Project JASSJ: Cost unknown

Spanning 338 feet, Project JASSJ  is the third-largest of the show-stopping superyachts German shipbuilder Lürssen is delivering in 2024.

Sold in 2021 to an anonymous buyer for an undisclosed price, the superyacht features exterior and interior design by RWD Design. American firm Moran Yacht & Ship is overseeing the build.

Fantastically spacious, Project JASSJ can accommodate 22 guests in 11 staterooms.

Lürssen isn't holding back when it comes to amenities, promising an "industry-leading" beach club, as well as a swimming pool, deck Jacuzzi, top-end gym, and elevator, along with a state-of-the-art helipad and side-opening tender garage.

105 Explorer (NB-729): Cost unknown

Hot on the heels of delivering the 367-foot Renaissance (NB-724) , the largest ever yacht crafted in Spain (and shown here in all its glory), Freire's Galician shipyard is set to complete another whopper:  105 Explorer (NB-729) , which comes in at 344 feet.

Renaissance  has been described by Burgess Yachts as a "temple of leisure" and "sanctum of tranquillity." But 105 Explorer (NB-729) is more about adventure than relaxation...

The superyacht may be kitted out with all the classic creature comforts but, as a roving expedition vessel, the emphasis is on performance rather than amenities.

Reflecting other high-end shipbuilders, Freire has chosen to keep the price of the superyacht a secret in the interest of client confidentiality.

Ace 21: Cost $150 million

Ace 21 is one of four show-stopping superyachts that Germany's Lürssen is delivering this year.

Extending over 256 feet end to end, the glamorous vessel spans five decks – the superyachts we've covered so far have just four – and has been designed to provide five-star relaxation in the world's most idyllic locations. It can accommodate up to 14 guests and a crew of 24.

Lürssen, which has taken care of the naval architecture, has reportedly designed the superyacht so it can cruise closer to shorelines and dock alongside paradise-style beaches and coves.

Ace 21 is all about relaxation – and its designated wellness zone, complete with an extensive spa, beach club, and deck Jacuzzi, combine to make it the perfect place to kick back, millionaire style.

SuperYachtFan reports the vessel was ordered by an unnamed individual who's said to be a prominent figure in the yachting world. The site pegs Ace 21 's price tag at $150 million and estimates annual running costs could stretch as high as $15 million.

Project 825: Cost $186 million

On the other hand, the asking price for Feadship's Project 825  has been revealed.

Due for delivery later in the year, the 249-foot superyacht is currently available for $186 million via Burgess Yachts.

Newly-built vessels of this size and caliber are usually custom orders, so it's rare for one to come on the market. The yacht is likely to be snapped up by a member of the super-rich elite who doesn't have the patience to wait years for a bespoke job .

The turnkey superyacht, which is getting its finishing touches at the Feadship Royal Van Lent shipyard in the Netherlands, has a slick two-tone exterior by Feadship's De Voogt Naval Architects. Its chic interiors are courtesy of Parisian design house Gilles & Boissier.

Project 825 has six staterooms with space for 12 guests, who'll have their every whim catered to by 17 crew members. Among its key selling points are an awesome glass-bottomed swimming pool and a private VIP terrace that boasts its own Jacuzzi.

There's also a sauna, deck gym, games room, and touch-and-go helipad, as well as an elevator. 

Project 712: Cost $200 million+

Feadship is practically churning out superyachts at the moment, with multiple deliveries scheduled this year. Project 712 is among them.

The 272-foot vessel features an exterior design by Feadship's De Voogt Naval Architects. Unlike the aforementioned Project 825 , however, the interiors are the work of top Dutch firm Sinot Yacht Architecture & Design, not French studio Gilles & Boissier.

Because Feadship is selling Project 825 , the price has been revealed – but Project 712 's cost is being kept firmly under wraps. Given its larger dimensions, it's likely to be even more expensive than its sister vessel.

The superyacht has space for up to 10 guests across its five cabins, according to YachtCharterFleet,  and comes equipped with a wealth of billionaire-worthy amenities, including a beach club, a gym, and a deck Jacuzzi.

Project 821: Cost $200 million+

The biggest Feadship superyacht launching this year – not to mention the largest the Dutch company has ever built – is  Project 821 , which spans 390 feet.

Feadship is being as secretive about this superyacht as it is with Project 1012 , with very few details known about it. 

The exterior design is characterized by soft lines, and there's a capacious beach club to the rear of the superyacht that leads down to a swimming platform... And that's all we know. 

Both the buyer and the price of  Project 821 are being kept hush-hush, though the superyacht is likely to have cost considerably more than the smaller Project 825 , which is on the market for $186 million.

Project Deep Blue: Cost $450 million

The second-biggest of Lürssen's four superyachts expected to launch this year, Project Deep Blue may not be delivered to its owner until 2025, according to several expert forecasts.

Details about the project are scant. Even the final length of the superyacht is uncertain, but it's believed to measure at least 427 feet.

No doubt the owner is delighted with the sophisticated exterior design, which bears similarities to Lürssen's Ahpo (now named Lady Jorgia).  

SuperYachtFan reports Project Deep Blue is expected to accommodate 24 guests and a crew of 45. It estimates the vessel would cost a staggering $450 million, with punishing yearly running costs of $45 million. The website has vaguely identified the owner as an Indian or Chinese billionaire.

Project Luminance: Cost $500 million (£392m)

The biggest of Lürssen's four show-stopping superyachts hitting the water in 2024, Project Luminance spans a whopping 475 feet, making it almost as long as three Olympic-sized swimming pools.

The superyacht was originally slated for completion last year, but the delivery date has since been put back. A masterpiece of nautical design, Project Luminance wows thanks to its exterior by Monaco-based Espen Øino and equally elegant interiors by French studio Zuretti Interior Design.

Project Luminance is estimated to accommodate as many as 24 guests across 12 opulent staterooms. Amenities are fantastically lavish, with the vessel reportedly boasting two helipads and a massive swimming pool, which comes complete with an adjacent dip pool.

Reported to cost in excess of $500 million, Project Luminance was commissioned by Rinat Akhmetov, the richest person in Ukraine.

A report in The New York Times in 2022 suggested Akhmetov was considering selling the vessel in light of Russia's invasion of his home country. Still, it appears the billionaire might have decided to keep it for now. And who can blame him?

Somnio: Cost $600 million (£470m)

Putting this year's other launches firmly in the shade, Somnio spans a colossal 728 feet, making it the largest superyacht ever built.

The world's first "yacht-liner," this $600 million floating palace for the mega-rich is billed as "the most exclusive address in the world" and will cruise the planet's iconic yachting destinations, from Monaco to French Polynesia.

Somnio features 39 luxe private residences and a wealth of "six-star" amenities, including an enormous resort-style swimming pool, premium spa, opulent movie theater, gourmet restaurants, 10,000-bottle wine cellar, and a library.

Nearing completion at Norway's Vard shipyard, the six-deck nautical extravaganza is a collaboration between Somnio, Fincantieri, and Vard, while Tillberg Design of Sweden and the UK's Winch Design have looked after the interior design.

The potential occupants of the 39 apartments are being carefully hand-picked. On offer are units with two to four bedrooms, with the option to fully customize them with the likes of a gym, personal kitchen, library, and more.

Those lucky enough to get a Somnio invite can expect to pay from $22 million to secure a cabin in the elite vessel, with service charges likely to be sky-high too.

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The super-rich are cooling on buying yachts—and the bad image of russian oligarchs may be to blame.

The yacht industry was considered by analysts to be invincible, because its customers are too wealthy to be bothered by inconveniences like inflation and recessions. Moreover, the number of people who can afford yachts, ultra-high-net-worth-individuals worth over $50 million, are growing. In 2022, Credit Suisse predicted that the global population of individuals wealthy enough to buy yachts would grow by 121,000 over the next five years to 385,000.

And yet, the yacht industry hasn’t been doing very well lately. The percentage of super rich who own yachts has been declining since 2017, indicating that new members of the $50 million+ club may be blasé about splurging on a palace at sea.

Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine may be partly to blame, according to a research note by Berenberg Bank, as chronicled in the Financial Times on Thursday. Now, when the megarich think about purchasing a yacht, they have to weigh the possibility of creating an optics problem for themselves.

“The beginning of the conflict in Ukraine has led to a decline in yacht order intake since Q2 2022, with UHNWIs taking a cautious approach and postponing orders,” Berenberg wrote, using the acronym for ultra-high-net-worth-individuals worth over $50 million. “Since then, the listed luxury yacht manufacturers have suffered from a lower level of interest from the financial community, linked to the perception that yachting is significantly exposed to Russian clientele.”

Berenberg did not provide the data for the exact decline in sales. However, the percentage of ultra-wealthy people with yachts, according to Berenberg, peaked in 2014 at 3.6%, and tumbled to 2% in 2021, the most recent year for which numbers are available. The decline shows that the shift in yacht buying habits of the rich and famous is a long-term trend that preceded the Ukrainian invasion, which started in 2022.

North America is home to the most people with over $50 million at around 145,000, followed by Europe at around 41,000 and China at 35,000. As of 2021, America’s ultra wealthy owned 25% of the world’s yachts, but the vessels are most closely associated with Russia, despite only 9% of yachts being Russian-owned. This’s because yachts are synonymous with the Russian oligarch lifestyle. Russians own some of the world’s largest and most expensive yachts, with Vladimir Putin’s reported to cost up to $700 million. The world’s largest yacht by gross tonnage, worth about $800 million, is owned by Russian oligarch Alisher Usmanov, and comes with an indoor pool, a helicopter and two helipads, and a 96-person crew.

They are a status and political symbol in Russia that other global billionaires—even ones from other countries—may now be wary of owning.

"You have to have a yacht, otherwise you're not an oligarch," Anders Åslund, author of Russia's Crony Capitalism , told Insider . "It's a very status-conscious group."

The link between yachts and the Russian oligarchy, specifically in relation to the war in Ukraine, came to a head when, in 2022, Western countries sanctioned Russian billionaires deemed close to the Kremlin and seized their yachts. Although authorities also confiscated mansions, bank accounts, and private jets, it was the yachts that made for the juiciest headlines—helped by photos of the opulent floating castles. Over 400 Russian yachts were put on the sanction list, although the vast majority of them were never seized because they were untraceable or had already been moved from countries where they risked seizure.

Of course, the recent decline in yacht sales, as described by Berenberg, also coincides with economic turmoil created by rising interest rates and amid fears of recession. A regional banking crisis in the U.S. along with some upheaval in Switzerland have added to the uncertainty. Berenberg noted that the recent yacht sales decline could be attributed to wealthy people not wanting to make big ticket purchases amid a weak economy.

Still, the mix of yachts sold are increasingly leaning towards bigger vessels. Smaller yachts, which can go for a measly few hundred thousand dollars, are expected to become a smaller percentage. Called composite yachts, they made up 67% of the market in 2016, but are projected to shrink to 52% of it. However, the amount of money spent on them is expected to grow 51% to $7.4 billion by 2026. Meanwhile, Berenberg predicted that the market share of super yachts—which cost more than $30 million for their custom designs and often steel hulls instead of fiberglass—would grow by 14.2% to $3 billion in 2026, making up nearly 21% of the market compared to 17% in 2021.

This story was originally featured on Fortune.com

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Kansas judge considers injunction on rule criminalizing private sale of guns for profit

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A U.S. District Court judge in Wichita will decide whether private gun sales must be processed through a federally licensed firearm dealer if it’s “predominantly to earn a profit.”

Gun rights advocates say that puts run-of-the-mill hobbyists at risk of felonies.

The dispute comes from 2022 Safer Communities Act, which redefined a gun dealer as someone “with the principal objective of livelihood and profit” to “predominantly earn a profit. Currently, gun vendors must obtain a Federal Firearm License to participate in the gun business, and all FFL-holders must conduct background checks on potential buyers.

Private sellers who aren’t primarily engaged in firearms as a business historically have been able to sell guns without conducting a background check. The Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms says private sales are abused at gun shows, online transactions and through straw-buyers to skirt the safeguards of background checks.

The ATF says it is changing the law to close loopholes that allow guns to flow into black market sales.

“Today’s rule clarifying application of that definition will save lives by requiring all those in the business of selling guns to get a federal license and run background checks — thus keeping guns out of the hands of violent criminals,” said Lisa Monaco, deputy attorney general.

What makes a private seller?

Gun rights activists believe the rule is a step too far, and could criminalize any private sale that makes any amount of money. Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach ’s lawsuit challenging the rule says it could criminalize hunting buddies swapping shotguns, someone selling a recently bought handgun at the price they paid for it or downsizing a firearms collection with sales to a friend.

“By dropping a word out of that definition, essentially they broaden it out so much that it ropes in anyone who sells a firearm and gets a profit off of it, whether they intend to make a profit or not,” said Moriah Day, executive director of the Kansas State Rifle Association. “Prior to the final rule, it was limited to those who are actually doing it to gain a profit.”

The rule went into effect on May 20, but on Monday, the court will decide whether an injunction is placed on it while the courts decide if the rule is constitutional. Originally the suit was filed in the District Court of Arkansas, but it was transferred to Kansas due to a lack of standing in Arkansas. Two of the plaintiffs are based in Kansas.

“I know gun shows, I’ve been going to them forever. You never know what’s going to walk through that door. Sometimes I don’t get any because nothing really trips my trigger and I might get rid of something,” said Phil Journey, a judge, former member of the Kansas Senate and plaintiff in the case. “But I don’t know if I’m going to set up at a gun show or not again. Now that I’m sticking my head out of the trench somebody might just try and shoot me so to speak.”

Kris Kobach is leading lawsuit with 20 states signed on as co-plaintiffs

Kobach is leading the lawsuit, but about 20 states have signed on as co-plaintiffs. Defendants include U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland, ATF director Steven Dettelbach, the Department of Justice and the ATF. On Monday, both sides have 30 minutes to argue for or against an injunction on the rule change.

It’s unclear what the judge will decide. In Texas, a district judge issued a temporary restraining order for the new ATF rule that didn’t apply to other states involved in the case.  The U.S. Supreme Court recently issued a favorable decision for gun rights advocates when it reversed course on an ATF rule banning bump stocks, a device used to rapidly pull a gun’s trigger.

“It’s an issue like the bump stocks," Journey said. "That is an enactment by executive ruling that is broader than the intent of the original statute that it’s based upon. And it turns into legislation by the executive branch.”

This article originally appeared on Topeka Capital-Journal: Gun owners can't sell for profit unless injunction is issued in Kansas

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