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The Best Eco-Friendly Yachts of the 21st Century

There are many options for enjoying these beasts of the ocean in a more responsible way.

By Elite Traveler

As yachts get larger in size, they generally also increase in fuel capacity and consumption, running costs and also environmental impact. However, in recent years, there has been a change in the world of superyachts. Today, we are witnessing more and more yachts take steps towards efficiency, reducing fuel usage and innovating when it comes to improving sustainability credentials.

Much like aviation, bio and sustainable fuels are becoming far more accessible and prevalent in yachting. There has also been an uptick in the use of hybrid propulsion — the use of a combination of different energy sources — most commonly this results in a combination of both diesel and battery power. There has also been a renaissance of the sail, with some owners looking to harness the power of the wind to aid their transportation. It also undeniably looks superb.

As many yacht owners and potential buyers begin to focus more on the sustainability of these vessels, yacht builders are taking note. Here, Elite Traveler takes a closer look at some of the most impressive eco-friendly yachts to have hit the water during the last two decades. We will also be taking a quick look at what’s on the horizon.

Launched by Dutch yard Royal Huisman in 2008, 190-ft ketch Ethereal was a trendsetter that paved the way for future ‘eco’ superyachts. The first superyacht with a true hybrid system on board, she was the dream of owners Bill and Shannon Joy who set out to challenge the norm of yacht building. Together with the shipyard, naval architect Ron Holland and exterior/interior designer Pieter Beeldsnijder, the Joys worked to create a yacht that would have the lowest possible impact on the planet. The result was a technologically advanced design that delivered energy efficiency in a sleek and high-performance package.

Thanks to a twin hybrid electro-mechanical propulsion system, which recharges her battery bank, Ethereal can operate for long periods of time under the quiet stored power of her own resources. Every detail of Ethereal was examined for ways to reduce energy demands—from lighting to air-conditioning—and she delivers an impressively efficient performance when underway. Her open interior, with a warm and welcoming feel, invites guests in— fittingly, as her entire layout was designed to maximize spaces and allow those on board to spend quality time together. Since her launch Ethereal has traveled the world, treading lightly wherever she goes.

royalhuisman.com

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Black pearl.

At 350 ft, Black Pearl is the largest sailing superyacht in the world. She is certainly not inconspicuous but, despite her size, she is extremely eco-friendly. Delivered by Oceanco in 2016, Black Pearl is said to have the capability to cross the Atlantic using zero fossil fuel. Plans for undertaking this particular feat were underway when Covid-19 hit and delayed this attempt, but her captain, Chris Gartner, says that the owner and the Black Pearl’s team are committed to going ahead with that as soon as possible.

[See also: Step Inside the Black Pearl Yacht]

Black Pearl incorporates features that ensure a lower environmental impact: propellers that can generate electricity when operating in ‘regeneration mode’ and, one of her most impressive features, her sails also double as a source of power. Measuring an incredible 31,215 sq ft, Black Pearl’s sails have built-in solar panels that create electricity that is then stored so it can be put to use elsewhere as needed. The DynaRig sails also allow the yacht to be easily operated under sail power as much as possible, greatly reducing the need for fuel.

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oceancoyacht.com

Savannah , built by Dutch shipyard Feadship and hailed as the first hybrid motoryacht at her 2015 launch, is also the world’s largest metallic-painted floating object. This beautiful yacht has collected many awards, including the coveted Motor Yacht of the Year at the 2016 World Superyacht Awards. Her ‘Breathe’ propulsion system delivers 30% fuel-saving economies, and she can cruise under diesel-electric or simply electric battery power.

Savannah set a precedent for other eco-friendly projects from Feadship, including the ultra-sustainable 308-ft Viva (Hull 817), which has made waves since her February 2021 launch. As attractive as she is innovative, her elegant, four-deck floating superstructure pairs world-class technology with timeless style; features include the ‘Nemo Lounge,’ where you can peek below the waves and marvel at passing sea life from the comfort of the yacht. The main deck has a 30-ft pool and two main salons that are divided by a video wall, and the owner’s stateroom boasts a skylight above the master bed for admiring the starscape above.

feadship.nl

The impressive 262-ft Artefact , designed by Gregory C Marshall and delivered by Nobiskrug Yachts in 2020, is a head-turner for more than one reason. Her striking exterior, which makes clever use of glass, is the most obvious, but her eco-credentials are her biggest asset. Built for visionary owners who specifically requested a yacht with a reduced environmental impact, Artefact’s many solutions for this brief include 248 ft of solar panels and a battery storage system that allows the yacht to operate without its main engines for extended periods.

[See also: Artefact: The Eco Superyacht that Changed the Game]

Added to that is her dynamic positioning system and Azipod propulsion system – these allow Artefact to easily hold her position without needing to use her anchors and reduce her emissions while also upping her efficiency. In fact, she was one of the very first superyachts built to meet IMO Tier III emissions regulations. For those wishing to enjoy pristine surroundings without interruption, Artefact is also capable of silent operations. This ‘greener’ superyacht certainly doesn’t compromise on comfort and on her launch was the biggest volume yacht of her size in the world. She perfectly pairs form and function… in other words, this award-winning yacht is the full package.

nobiskrug.com

Sailing Yachts

Originally launched in 1993, the 143-ft Juliet was reborn in 2021 after an extensive “go greener” refit at her original build yard, Royal Huisman. Newly transformed into a hybrid yacht, Juliet now bears technologies that will future-proof her for years to come. Her new hybrid system offers numerous benefits including silent operations, zero emissions, peak-shaving, shaft-generated power under sail and reduced fuel consumption. A brand-new gearbox, aligned with a sophisticated new electric motor/generator, will allow electric propulsion that is powered by either the main engine or alternatively the battery pack or generator. Meanwhile, a battery bank will allow Juliet to operate in ‘silent ship’ mode.

When stretching her legs under sail, the rotation of the propeller will generate electric power. When at anchor she can run on battery power so guests can relax without any noise pollution that might detract from their surroundings. With nearly a quarter a million miles logged since her launch, Juliet is now ready for the next quarter million miles to come.

Swan 88 Hybrid

Finnish builders Nautor’s Swan has joined the trend for hybrid yachts with its Swan 88 Hybrid model, which has a hybrid-electric propulsion system that marks a new era for the yard’s Maxi range. This new direction for the yard includes making greater use of eco-friendly materials in its designs. The Swan 88 Hybrid is the yard’s first attempt at a hybrid yacht, and the design has already borne fruit – in May 2021 it announced it had already sold the first hull.

Described by Nautor’s Swan as a “dual soul of racer and cruiser,” the Swan 88 Hybrid pairs comfort and performance and is an excellent ‘starter size’ superyacht that is spacious but manageable. The minimalist exterior design by German Frers is complemented by “a comfortable, harmonious and magical” interior by Misa Poggi. An easy-handle sail plan makes use of the brand’s long experience in ocean racing, delivering “efficient, uncomplicated and easily managed sailing”. The layout and design has been tailored to maximize guest comfort on longer trips – this first model will be able to travel the world with a lighter footprint thanks to her eco credentials.

nautorswan.com

Sailing purists the world over treasure the sight of a J Class yacht. Original J Class yachts raced in the 1930s under the Universal Rule, in events including the America’s Cup. There have been several replica J Class yachts built in modern times as well. Elegant Rainbow is one such replica and was built in Holland in 2012 by Holland Jachtbouw. Her design was based on the original Rainbow , which won the America’s Cup in 1934, and it paired the best of classic yacht design with all the necessary modern technologies and comforts.

Like many other eco-friendly sailing yachts, Rainbow is powered by a hybrid propulsion system – in fact, she was the first J Class to boast this capability. This means a welcome 30% reduction in fuel usage, as well as the option of silent operations when underway. As beautiful on the inside as she is on the outside, Rainbow ’s luxurious interior makes use of elegant mahogany woods, sophisticated styling and plenty of space to enjoy.

y.co/yacht/rainbow

Built by Finnish firm Baltic Yachts in 2019, the 142-ft Canova takes the title of being the yard’s very first zero emissions yacht over 100 ft. This was a mandate of her owner, who wanted his long-distance cruising yacht to be as green as possible. Canova more than met the mark and carries an impressive line-up of modern technologies including a power regeneration system that, in theory, allows a never-ending supply for the yacht to make use of. An added first is that Canova is the first superyacht to be fitted with a transverse Dynamic Stability System foil, which delivers unprecedented comfort levels for a sailing yacht by reducing heel and motion.

Guests can relax on board Canova and enjoy nine hours of ‘silent’ mode made possible by an electric propulsion system that also charges the on-board battery bank. An easy-to-handle, yet powerful, sail plan ensures hoisting the sails is a breeze, meaning Canova can make the most of her sailing prowess (again cutting down on engine use). Large spaces and good indoor/outdoor flow make her a home away from home, with communal spaces including the large, sheltered cockpit with drop down glass sides. Canova was built to take her owner and guests around the world and will be venturing to a wide variety of destinations over the coming years.

balticyachts.fi

Sw108 Hybrid

First revealed in 2021, the SW108 Hybrid from South African shipyard Southern Wind Shipyard (SWS) is an exciting diesel-electric concept that has been designed with the planet in mind. It is the result of an impressive collaboration between SWS, Nauta Design and Farr Yacht Design. Featuring the ‘SWS Diesel-Electric Hybrid System,’ the SW108 Hybrid will allow for efficient consumption of fossil fuels and reduce harmful emissions.

[See also: Discovering the World’s Most Exciting Superyacht Concepts]

All this is presented in a sleek, elegant and reliable package typical of SWS. Key features include a plus-sized beach club and a garage with room for a 16 ft tender. Sure to appeal to sailors looking for a reliable and comfortable “greener” sailing yacht, the design is what the yard describes as “a more environmentally friendly approach to performance yacht sailing.” The shipyard takes its responsibilities to deliver more eco-friendly yachts very seriously and the SW108 Hybrid will likely set the tone for future designs from SWS.

sws-yachts.com

To the Future…

Now due to be completed in 2025, 640-ft REV Ocean will be the world’s largest research vessel. With construction well underway in Norway, REV Ocean is a state-of-the-art yacht that has been designed to ensure ‘one healthy ocean.’ As a luxury floating laboratory, her impressive facilities will allow her to undertake cutting-edge ocean science. She has an abundance of sustainable features, and her assets will include everything from a deep-diving submarine to a lecture theater for discussing discoveries.

[See also: Inside the Incredible Superyacht REV]

“ REV Ocean’s hull and propeller were designed for less resistance and more efficiency moving through the water, saving up to 15% on fuel consumption,” explains Lawrence Hislop of REV Ocean . “Additionally, lithium-ion battery packs, LED lighting, a heat recovery system, an onboard incinerator and DNV SILENT-R rating all contribute to the philosophy of making REV Ocean one of the world’s most sustainable research and expedition vessels.” Want to experience REV Ocean for yourself? She will be offering special, once-in-a-lifetime charters that allow guests to play their own part in REV Ocean’s important work.

revocean.org

The Arksen 85 — dubbed Project Ocean — the first self-proclaimed “ultimate marine exploration vessel” to be built by Arksen Yachts. Created to travel the world, with a stable, hardy design, the Arksen 85 is intended to explore with low environmental impact. She’s built in an eco-friendly way, with her hull and superstructure made from low-carbon, recycled aluminum. A range of up to 7,000 nm will give her plenty of scope for adventures, and her eco credentials include a solar array option for zero-carbon electrical power and a hybrid propulsion system.

Buying an Arksen yacht offers several bolt-ons such as membership in the Arksen Explorers’ Club, which helps owners make the most of their vessels, and an invitation to join the Arksen Foundation, where owners are invited to pledge 10% of their vessels’ sea time to ocean-exploration projects. The Arksen 85 offers luxurious comfort and large onboard spaces. This first build will include a full beam master suite, media room and children’s cabin. She is due to launch in 2022, and a large portion of her time at sea has already been committed to the Arksen Foundation.

Project AQUA

Project AQUA made headlines around the world when rumors started that she was being built for Bill Gates. This speculation was later dispelled but, in the process, the world got a good look at the 367-ft vessel and so too a glimpse of what the future of yacht design might look like. The work of Lateral Naval Architects in collaboration with Sinot Yacht Design, hydrogen-powered Project AQUA represents how yachting might one day achieve zero carbon usage.

[See also: Hydrogen-Powered Yachts: What to Know]

“For Project AQUA we set ourselves an objective of using near-future technology,” explains Simon Brealey, principal mechanical engineer at Lateral. “Liquid hydrogen has the potential to be created from renewable sources via electrolysis and as such can be considered a zero carbon fuel with the only local emissions being water. Project AQUA demonstrates [that] the onboard technology to enable a zero carbon project is ready, and we hope that it acts to inspire superyacht owners, shipyards, the hydrogen infrastructure industry and the wider maritime industry.”

The Sinot team used “an integrated and highly poetic design approach” when creating her: Cascading exterior decks are paired with a minimalist Japanese beach-style interior that provides living spaces in perfect balance with the water on which the vessel sits.

lateral.engineering , sinot.com

Dutch yard Feadship now has a good number of eco yachts to its name, and 312-ft hybrid yacht Bliss is the most recent to have hit the water. Launched in May 2021, Bliss benefits from the very latest advances in technology with an all-new hybrid propulsion system. De Voogt Naval Architects were heavily involved in the design and engineering of the hybrid system, which will allow the yacht to sail in diesel-electric mode. In a win-win for comfort and for the world, “this package helps to protect the environment and provides premium comfort for all who step aboard,” says Feadship. Bliss also has Polar Code compliance – what better way to connect with the importance of protecting the health of our planet than by coming face to face with the icy majesty of the Polar regions?

Currently owned by founder of Snapchat, Evan Spiegal, Bliss features an exterior design by Jan Schaffers of Studio de Voogt and interior design by Remi Tessier. This team has created an elegant style that they describe as “natural and welcoming, inside and out.” Highlights include nine cabins, a gym and wellness space, a pool and a convertible helideck. Designed for family fun and to see the world this magnificent custom yacht is a timeless triumph.

Eco Explorer

A collaboration between Dutch yard Feadship and French design studio Merveille Yachting, the Eco Explorer concept is described by Feadship as “a genuinely eco-friendly superyacht.” The yacht combines all the best elements of motor and sail yachts in one efficient package. She features a mast system that has fully automated wings twice as powerful as a standard sailing yacht rig, while the use of sail power reduces fuel use as well.

Energy is also harnessed from a trio of onboard solutions including wind turbines, solar panels and underwater turbines. These, together with other reduction elements, add up to the use of an estimated 50-70% less fossil fuel, and more than three times the range of an equivalent boat. The 55-ft beam ensures plenty of space on board, with an inviting interior and vast beach club that includes a 49-ft swimming pool. The perfect yacht for seeing the world guilt-free, “the Eco Explorer is on the forefront of cutting-edge, environmentally friendly technology,” says Feadship.

feadship.nl , merveille-yachting.com

A mighty 328-ft sailing yacht concept, Vento is the brainchild of Nuvolari-Lenard. First revealed in June 2021 at the Venice Boat Show, this behemoth was created by design duo Carlo Nuvolari and Dan Lenard to be a “manifesto for environmental protection” and a visual appeal to superyacht designers to create truly green yachts. This radical concept will use the wind as its main source of propulsion and its slipstream hull will ensure it moves efficiently through the water. Its Wing Sail sail plan is more efficient than traditional rigs, allowing for better performance. A diesel-electric system with variable speed generators and variable pitch propellors will allow operations to be adjusted to achieve maximum efficiency.

Nuvolari and Lenard both believe that it is not enough to design a yacht that is “greener,” and instead our entire mentalities and attitudes towards yacht design needs to shift. “ Vento speaks to a market sensitive to environmental issues, worried about the future of the marine ecosystem, which is ready to do its part,” they say. Vento is their testimony and, they believe, proof that a truly green yacht needn’t mean compromising on innovative designs and luxurious living.

nuvolari-lenard.com

Project Crystal

The size of the 308-ft Project Crystal is an eco yacht option for buyers who can’t let go of the idea of a very large yacht. She, like the rest on this list, has been designed in a way that will allow efficient operations and energy savings. “As with all our designs, the impact of a vessel on its context is crucial — environmental considerations extend from the controllable pitch propellers which maximize efficiency, through the hydrodynamic optimizations of the hull, hybrid power systems and glazing arrangements that minimize solar gain,” says Nick Stark, naval architect at Nick Stark Design.

Project Crystal is named for the distinctive crystalline lattice that forms a striking part of the exterior profile. Designed to be a sanctuary, Project Crystal is a safe and relaxing space that is both beautiful on board and from afar. “We wanted to create an aesthetic that is celebratory,” says Stark. “The lines flow up and across, both lifting our gaze and also guiding it to what is around us: the people, the community and the environment”. The design is able to achieve swift global navigation and she has been crafted with a relentless focus on hydrodynamic fundamentals – the sleek unadorned underwater lines tick the boxes for both fuel efficiency and superb seakeeping. Not to mention she looks pretty exceptional too.

nickstark.design

Sunreef 80 Eco

The Sunreef 80 Eco catamaran design is described by Sunreef Yachts as “an eco-responsible luxury craft combining electric propulsion, superyacht living spaces, reliable sailing performance and the latest green technologies in the industry.” The Sunreef 80 Eco is the largest in the yard’s Eco range, which boasts a large number of appealing ‘green’ features. These include state-of-the-art batteries, sustainable interiors, wind generators and smart water management. In fact, the entire Sunreef brand has undergone a central shift and rebrand towards producing “eco luxury” catamarans.

[See also: Style and Sustainability: The New Sunreef 80 Eco Catamaran]

Sunreef Yachts have worked hard on developing their own proprietary solar panel system, which has been integrated into the Sunreef 80 Eco design, allowing for 1,765 sq ft of ultra-light solar panels installed around the vessel. Pairing comfort and green technology, she has been designed for long range offshore cruising in total silence and in harmony with her surroundings. The entire design can be customized to suit her owners, with plenty of light-filled spaces in close proximity to the ocean. The first Sunreef 80 Eco is currently in build and due to make her debut in 2021.

sunreef-yachts-eco.com

Tillberg Design of Sweden (TDoS) revealed its interpretation of an eco superyacht, the 265-ft Aegir 2.0 . The design house describes it as “the sailing yacht with the lowest possible environmental footprint.” A big claim indeed. The design has a wind-electric propulsion system that recharges her batteries as she sails. This means her range is theoretically infinite – the world will be her oyster. A Dynarig sail plan will ensure excellent performance, while the trimaran hull delivers excellent seakeeping.

Her eco credentials do not mean a sacrifice on comfort as Aegir 2.0 has plenty of luxury features including a swimming pool, beach club space and spacious rooms. A minimalist Scandinavian style interior pairs a subtle color palette with natural materials, complemented by large windows that fill all spaces with light.

tillbergdesign.com

Lürssen’s fuel cell yacht

There is little public information available about an exciting new project from German yard Lürssen Yachts, but it certainly warrants a place in this list for the feat of being the yard’s first yacht with fuel cell technology. Now in build, the yacht has been commissioned by a forward thinking and technology driven owner. This project is huge news as it represents a big step towards an emission free Lürssen superyacht. Flanking the traditional generators, the fuel cell will offer many benefits including the ability to anchor for 15 days or cruise 1,000 miles at slow speed with no emissions.

Complementing this new build project, the yard has set up an Innovation Laboratory that will “simulate and test the integration and operation of a Marine Hybrid Fuel Cell System on board a yacht powered by methanol.” Lürssen is certainly looking to the future and has ambitious goals to lead the field in the construction of emission free yachts.

lurssen.com

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Most beautiful superyachts: 10 of the best as chosen by top designers

Superyachts

What turns a superyacht into a thing of beauty? We asked scores of the world's leading yacht designers to list the 10 most beautiful superyachts ever built...

The only rules were that they couldn’t pick one of their own and they had to be luxury superyachts over 30 metres. With the votes counted, we can now reveal our definitive rundown of the most beautiful yachts in the world.

We’ve even enlisted some of those same designers to explain what makes the final ten yachts so special. Scroll down to see the full top 10 and read more about each model.

10 of the most beautiful superyachts of all time

most-beautiful-superyachts-777_limitless

10. Limitless

James Roy, managing director of BMT Nigel Gee believes her to be one of the most beautiful superyachts in the world and writes:

“One of the earlier breed of superyachts Limitless is in my opinion from a period when the volume of superstructures were not over imposing producing a well balanced yacht. These proportions coupled with the sheer line and well matched angles of bow profile and rake of superstructure ends all work together.”

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“It’s a great pleasure to pay tribute to an iconic thoroughbred such as Skat , still standing tall on the horizon,” says Tim Saunders of Rainsford Saunders Design. “Despite her military looks, this is a true superyacht, engineered as a ship at heart and built from the keel up, with every square metre fulfilling the owner’s brief. Skat is a unique design but has not broken traditional yachting rules for the sake of it.

She is a superyacht that has been devised to offer the owner a well-considered relationship between external and internal living spaces, and unlike many of her sisters, she doesn’t opt for maximum density. Skat ’s combination of poise, elegance and balance comes from a clever use of straight, angular lines, facetted surfaces and enhanced ship details.

Each component comes together in a harmonious relationship to offer a daring and bold statement that from a distance has the grace and elegance of something far more organic. She is a yacht that catches your eye from all angles.”

Year: 2002 – LOA: 70.7m – Builder: Lürssen – Exterior: Espin Oeino – Interior: Marco Zanini

8. Alfa Nero

“When we first saw Alfa Nero we were impressed by her smooth exterior lines,” say Mareid Moosbrugger and Georg Decker of Egg and Dart Design. “The superstructure is sleek and elegant without any angular or hard corners. We consider her to be one of the most beautiful yachts afloat today, and we can easily understand why our colleagues agree.

“Walking around her at the 2007 Monaco Yacht Show , we felt the three-dimensional use of space was harmonious with the elements, and there was a true balance between the inside and outside areas of the yacht, with the exterior spaces maintaining a close connection with the natural environment of the sea and sky.

“The decks are open and airy, yet there is a feeling of being safely cocooned, and the superb aft deck in particular maintains a feeling of being at one with the ocean, which is emphasised by the huge pool. The yacht impressed us as a gentle giant: on the one hand huge, voluminous and technically advanced; on the other, stylish, glossy and surprisingly cosy.

“The beautiful interior features a timeless but modern design with elements of Art Deco, and everywhere you can see that the smallest details have been attended to. This yacht is a perfect combination of design, functionality and vision, and offers a unique ambience.”

Year: 2007 – LOA: 81.27m – Builder: Oceanco – Exterior: Nuvolari-Lenard – Interior: Alberto Pinto

Designer Reymond Langton says: “At the time of her creation, she was the largest yacht that we had signed and would be the largest the yard had built. The client is a very experienced yacht owner and for him to have put his trust in us when we had nothing of our own in the water at the time was a massive vote of confidence.

“He allowed us to be a little experimental with the design – this was the first large yacht with a plumb bow. It was fantastic to have landed another contract where we were able to design the exterior and interior as it gave us much more control over the whole project, and gave us the scope to really harmonise the spaces.

“It also allowed us to work hand in hand together, which we thoroughly enjoy and believe delivers the best results for the client. We think she stands out because she has a very striking profile that is easily recognisable from a distance.

“She has a lot of presence on the water due to her powerful lines. Anyone who has been on board will tell you that the high-volume interior feels incredibly luxurious.”

Year: 2007 – LOA: 68.0m – Builder: Abeking & Rasmussen – Exterior: Reymond Langton Design – Interior: Reymond Langton Design

6. Carinthia VII

The Austrian supermarket heiress Heidi Horten replaced Carinthia VI (see below) with this very secret yacht rumoured to run at 26 knots. Voting her as his most beautiful yacht, Rupert Mann of Rainsford Mann Design said, “97m is a good length for a designer to work with, as it gives an opportunity to design longitudinally not vertically and therefore create an elegant yacht which appears low and sleek.

“What makes the design of Carinthia VII so successful is the enhancement of this due to the pure and elegant sheer line that draws your eye from the bow to stern so effortlessly. The clever trick of dropping the sheer line one deck down aft, gives it a dynamic and purposeful bow shape forward, as if carving its path with consummate ease.

The horizontal lines of the super structure are equally uncomplicated, in this instance resisting the addition of unnecessary detail such as fashion plates that often complicate a design. Ultimately I think the strength of the design manifests through its simplicity. It is the most successful of designs, which can be called a ‘timeless classic’.

“A design that will be successful in every genre modern or classic and in every decade, that even 7 years later still is relevant and pleasing to the eye. I would suspect it is this timeless styling and the sheer simplicity, coupled with the poise and balance of the whole composition, that is so appealing to so many of us.”

Year: 2002 – LOA: 97m – Builder: Lürssen – Exterior: Tim Heywood – Interior: Tim Heywood

most-beautiful-superyachts-maltese-falcon

5. Maltese Falcon

The designer Ken Freivoch, responsible for the way this beautiful yacht looks says, “We are delighted that our fellow designers should have included Maltese Falcon within their shortlist. She was designed without any attempt to be ostentatious or to conform to a set style – it was very much a case of “form follows function”, albeit with very careful attention to essential design principles, balanced proportions and uncluttered and purposeful shapes totally derived from the function they are designed to perform.

The yacht is significant in her innovative sailing system, and our studio took this as a clue to develop the design around such technology, with every effort to develop beautiful and unique solutions aimed at highlighting her unique rig. I can only surmise that a reason why she may have been selected by designers is that she is not a “trendy” design, but the result of going back to first principles, coming out with original and unique solutions, and achieve continuity of concept through from the external styling to the interior design.

A case in point would be the design of the “spider” feature at the aft deck – originally the result of a last minute request from the naval architects to achieve optimum separation between the bearings at the mizzen mast, the announcement from Gerry Dijkstra came something like: “Hey Ken, if we had to place the top bearing for the aft mast 1m above the deck, in the middle of the aft deck – would that be a problem?

“Can you come up with a way to do this, which Tom will not object to? We took this as a clue to design an elegant and purposeful set of arches or buttresses to shore up the bearing in question, and at the same time underline what a unique “machine” the Falcon is – express such function very much along the lines of a watchmaker showing the inner workings of a beautifully crafted watch. Maltese Falcon was a great challenge, exactly the type of challenge that our design team relishes.

For us, the thrill, the excitement and the ultimate satisfaction is to come up with totally unique, “out-of-the-box” solutions, and achieve a design which the owner can feel was truly conceived and executed in response to his brief, to his preferences and to the very specific requirements set out for the project.”

Year: 2006 – LOA: 88m – Builder: Perini Navi – Exterior: Gerard Dijstra – Interior: Ken Freivoch

Espen Oenio was at the time of the design working with Martin Francis and describes the commissioning owner – Mexican media magnate Emilio Azcarraga – as a wonderfully charismatic man. He remembers one meeting in particular early on in the project.

They were at the time sitting on board the owner’s then yacht Lady Azteca (now Achilles ), when he laid out what was to become the mission statement for the whole design process. He told the design team: “I am a very private man. I never spend time in port, I am always cruising. But when I do go into port, I want my presence to be felt through my boat.”

James Roy of BMT Nigel Gee is one designer who voted for Enigma . “It was not until I set eyes on her in the flesh at Cowes Week in 1999 that I really came to appreciate her beauty,” he says.

“The reverse sheer, the sweeping aft deck and those iconic windows – they all meld together to produce a yacht that visually works to perfection and is thoroughly striking even today, 18 years after her launch. It’s very different from anything else that is around.”

Theo Werner of Werner Yacht Design is equally enthusiastic. “When the design of this yacht was first published, I was stunned,” he says. “And when the first photographs appeared in the magazines, I was even more stunned.

“She introduced a new way of thinking that even surpassed the designs of Bannenberg, who I admire very much. Eco included many aspects that are foreign to other ships and yachts, yet Martin Francis managed to combine these with everything that make a ship pretty, such as sleekness, the suggestion of a low freeboard a small superstructure.”

She was subsequently sold to Larry Ellison and is now owned by the British businessman Aidan Barclay and his brother.

Year: 1991 – LOA: 74.5m – Builder: Blomhm & Voss – Exterior: Martin Francis – Interior: Francois Zuretti

3. Endeavour

“Endeavour is one of my favourite yachts for a number of reasons,” Ed Dubois told SuperYacht World . “Firstly, she is a J Class yacht – one of only a few ever built. This class epitomised the very peak of yacht design before World War II and remains still, in technical terms, a class apart. These yachts were extreme in every way and demanded technology that was then in its infancy.

“They were superb yachts to sail upwind, but they were also fast reaching and downwind. They demanded a very high level of sailing skill, and indeed a high level of boatbuilding skill.

“ Endeavour , I believe, is the most beautiful of all the Js built. Her purity of line is exquisite and I think the shape of the sheer is slightly better than any of the others including Velsheda (by the same designer).

“Charles Nicholson designed Endeavour in 1933 and she was used to challenge for the America’s Cup in 1934. It was universally acknowledged that she was faster than the defender Rainbow , and she won the first two races, but better sailing by the Americans allowed them to win overall.

“She has captured the imagination of so many people including, happily, Elizabeth Meyer, who acquired the yacht in the seventies and rebuilt her almost from scratch.

“I believe there is some original plate still present but the hull was rebuilt in the UK and then taken to Royal Huisman Shipyard to be fitted out. The interior, by John Munford, is beautiful – obviously not what was fitted originally when she was a pure racing yacht, but Munford created something that is entirely fitting.

“Endeavour is not a practical yacht to own. She can only be sailed in reasonable conditions, she requires a large crew to race her, most of whom by necessity must sleep ashore, and maintaining a yacht of this type, particularly with regard to sails, rigging, etc is not inexpensive. However, for sheer sailing performance, romantic appeal and beauty I believe she is second to none.”

Year: 1934 – LOA: 39.6m – Builder: Camper & Nicholson – Exterior: C & N – Interior: C & N

Designer Tim Heywood says: “When a client gives you carte blanche to create a design, it is a blessing and a curse, if you do not rise to the challenge, you will not gain the approval of your client or, eventually, the respect of your peers.

“ Pelorus was a great project for us and we are extremely pleased with the end result, as was the client. I was able to develop the internal general arrangement plan, the external global styling themes and the practical engineering details to a level I had not achieved before.

The organic curves & forms of the superstructure are echoed in the lines of the hull, tying the two forms together, to produce a harmony that is easy on the eye, was quite unique at the time and, hopefully, will not date.

“The belt line that runs forward from the stern and sweeps down towards the anchor pocket, is inspired by the armour plating of the light cruiser HMS Belfast , which still lives just up stream from our old London studio.

“If I succeeded in creating a yacht that is thought of as attractive, by my brothers in arms of the design world, I am very pleased. Informed comments from professional, talented designers and client, means more than from any other source, especially if they are not negative!

“My partner, Vanessa, came up with our project name, we always give a name to our yachts, rather than a sterile number, and the client liked the name so much that he confirmed Pelorus as the yacht’s eventual name. The yacht has changed hands, but we are very pleased to see that she has retained her original name.”

“If I succeeded in creating a yacht that is thought of as attractive by my brothers-in-arms of the design world, I am very pleased. Informed comment from professional, talented designers and clients means more than from any other source – especially when they are positive!”

Year: 2003 – LOA: 115m – Builder: Lürssen – Exterior: Tim Heywood – Interior: Terrence Disdale

most-beautiful-superyachts-carinthia-vi-the-one

1. Carinthia VI

Dickie Bannenburg of Bannenburg Designs say: “Famously, and perhaps notoriously, Carinthia VI owes her existence to the fact that her elder sibling Carinthia V survived for only a few months before ending her days several fathoms down in Greek waters.

:The unfortunate captain struggled ashore to find a phone to have an awkward phone conversation with Helmut Horten, his Owner. Mr Horten rang my father up almost the following day and told him to start work on her replacement which has now become, in an often over used phrase, a yachting icon.

“She certainly wasn’t an icon when she appeared out of the Lürssen shed for the first time. With dramatic superstructure on a slim frigate-based hull, grilles and that distinctive blue windshield forward of the wheelhouse, my father’s design scared the pants off people and the perception of him hardened amongst conventional designers and naval architects as a dangerous radical. But now her pared down lines and slender masculinity scream good taste, restraint and a sense of suave style that is rarely seen these days.

“Certainly her interior was purposeful, code for slightly austere, and by today’s standards there was not much interior volume for lavish living, not least due to the presence of three mighty MTU diesels. There are no swoops, no complicated fashion plates and absolutely no ability to walk down steps at the transom to a nice bathing platform.

“But all the better for it. Life on board was, I understand, conducted with a certain Austrian precision and Carinthia ’s elegant and taut exterior, with deep blue paintwork and her gold coachwork stripe cut an unmistakeable dash in the harbours of the Cote d’Azur as she still does today.

“My father was very proud of her. Of course I’m even more proud that his design of almost forty years ago has such an enduring impact.”

Year: 2003 – LOA: 115m – Builder: Lürssen – Exterior: Bannenberg – Interior: Bannenberg

First published in the January 2015 issue of Superyacht World.

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Tour One of the World’s Most Magnificent Modern Yachts

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Having spent his career working on land-based projects, real estate developer Charles S. Cohen and his wife, Clo, embarked on a journey to the sea. “I had owned a smaller boat before and was captivated by spending time on the water,” recounts Charles. “It’s a very relaxing environment.” So the pair toured the world to find inspiration for their dream yacht —but it wasn’t an easy task. “We went to boat shows around the world, walked on a lot of boats, and saw a lot things that we liked none of,” laughs Charles. But their dissatisfaction was simply part of the process. “Often when I do a design project, the most significant way to find out what you really want is to eliminate what you don’t like.” Their list of don’ts grew longer and longer, from the frequent use of dark woods to low ceilings to so-called “gyms” that were nothing more than “a closet with a treadmill,” as Charles puts it.

But then a glimmer of light appeared on the horizon. “The first thing that piqued our interest was a prototypical design that Italian firm Benetti had done,” says Charles. “They found a Dutch designer, Cor D. Rover, who was young and hadn’t done many boats before.” This beach-style prototype had one major feature that stood out to the couple: a large pool. Ultimately this would help define the shape of the yacht, named Seasense , that Charles and Clo would build over the course of four years with Benetti and Rover. “I had this idea of taking a boat that has the interior of a 140- to 150-foot boat, but then stretching out the back for the pool,” says Charles, which brought the yacht to a total length of 220 feet. “I wanted an on-the-sea environment that was really about being outside.”

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The Sky Lounge features blue furnishings, including Walter Knoll lounge chairs and a Martin Brattrud sofa, with a vibrant artwork by Valérie Belin.

Even inside the ship, guests are reminded of the sea. Teaming up with AREA Architecture—with whom they’ve worked on several land-based projects, including their L.A. home and Charles’s offices—as well as their longtime friend and collaborator Joe Kaplan of Texlights, Inc., Charles and Clo chose a contemporary design with a blue palette inspired by the water. “I wanted the rooms to be like the horizon, with the darkest blue on the lowest level and shades that get lighter as they rise,” says Charles.

The interior design process took an entire year, not just because the couple scoured global design fairs for “the best contemporary furniture there is out there,” as Charles notes—the couple ended up sourcing pieces by such designers as Holly Hunt and Walter Knoll—but also due to the technical challenges of designing a seafaring vessel. “There are nine miles of piping and 55 miles of wire inside Seasense . Can you imagine?” asks Charles. But looking at the interior of the six-cabin yacht, all that technical work is well hidden, making it easy to see the space as posh dwelling on solid ground. And it’s meant to feel like a home—Charles and Clo always designed Seasense for their private use with their sons rather than for charter. “This is really the case of expanding the envelope to take something land-based and put it on the sea,” says Charles. “It was a long process, but I think we came up with something that’s extraordinary.”

Take a tour of the magnificent Seasense below.

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The Sky Lounge also has its own dining space, outfitted with Walter Knoll dining chairs.

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Outside his work in real estate, Charles, an avid film buff, serves as chairman and CEO of his own production company, so it was important to him that Seasense be up to par with its media technology. Not only was he able to fit a 98-inch screen onboard, shown here in the TV lounge, but he also had the yacht rigged with a media system that allows guests to access an extensive film catalog from any room.

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In the indoor-outdoor dining room on the main deck, the blue chairs are by Bright Chair Company for Thomas Lavin.

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Averse to the low seven-foot ceilings typically found on yachts, Charles and Clo wanted loftier spaces. Most areas on the ship have at least eight-foot ceilings, but the master suite, shown here, has ten-foot ceilings. The chaise longue is by Tuohy, the lamps by Holly Hunt, and the bedding by Ralph Lauren Home. Both artworks on the wall are by Valerie Belin, while the ceiling piece is by Studio Roso.

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The master suite’s bath combines large windows with light stone to create an airy environment.

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This guest cabin strays from the blue palette with bold red accents. The desk chair is by Vicente Wolf, the carpet by Tai Ping, and the bedding by Missoni Home.

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Another guest cabin sticks to the blue hues in a lounge chair by Walter Knoll and a carpet by Tai Ping.

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In Charles’s own words, “I’m very much a fitness nut, so I wanted to have a gym.” So he created an exceptional fitness center at sea that goes far beyond the typical “treadmill in a closet” found aboard other vessels.

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The bar and lounge on the sun deck features a dining table and side tables by Holly Hunt, dining chairs by Link Outdoor for Thomas Lavin, bar stools by Janus et Cie, and lounge chairs and a sofa by Sutherland.

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And finally, the pool that started it all. Rather than run the teak flooring lengthwise, from bow to stern, in a traditional manner, Charles decided to run it horizontally, from port to starboard, in order to create the illusion of a wider space. The lounge chairs, sofa, and round cocktail table beneath the overhang are by Holly Hunt. By the pool, the sofa is a custom Benetti work, and the chaise longues and rectangular cocktail table are by Link Outdoor for Thomas Lavin.

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Yachts and Superyachts, understandably, have a bad name when it comes to being environmentally friendly. But there are many options for enjoying these beasts of the ocean in a greener and more responsible way. Among the growing number of initiatives for lower-impact yachting is hybrid propulsion (the use of a combination of energy sources, such as diesel and battery power), more efficient hulls and choosing sail over motor. Looking to the future, sustainability is becoming more and more important to those building and buying yachts, and this is reflected in the types of superyachts hitting the water. We take a closer look at the trailblazing eco-friendly yachts of the past 20 years, as well as the most exciting projects on the horizon.

SY Ethereal was the first superyacht with a true hybrid system on board / @Franco Pace

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Black Pearl

The Black Pearl is capable of crossing the Atlantic without using any fuel / ©Tom Van Oossanen

At 350 ft, Black Pearl is the largest sailing superyacht in the world. She is certainly not inconspicuous but, despite her size, she is extremely eco-friendly. Delivered by Oceanco in 2016, Black Pearl is said to have the capability to cross the Atlantic using zero fossil fuel. Plans for undertaking this particular feat were underway when Covid-19 hit and delayed this attempt, but her captain, Chris Gartner, says that the owner and the Black Pearl team are committed to going ahead with that as soon as possible.

oceancoyacht.com

Savannah was built by Dutch shipyard Feadship/ ©Feadship

Savannah , built by Dutch shipyard Feadship and hailed as the first hybrid motoryacht at her 2015 launch, is also the world’s largest metallic-painted floating object. This beautiful yacht has collected many awards, including the coveted Motor Yacht of the Year at the 2016World Superyacht Awards. Her ‘Breathe’ propulsion system delivers 30% fuel-saving economies, and she can cruise under diesel electric or simply electric battery power.

feadship.nl

Ice was one of the most technologically advanced yachts when it was launched in 2005 / @Klaus Jordan

Delivered in 2005 by German powerhouse Lürssen, at the time of her launch ICE (then named AIR ) was one of the most technologically advanced yachts. The brief from the owner called for the yacht to be as environmentally friendly as possible, and she delivered that in spades. She was the first yacht in the world to be fitted with Azipods, a diesel-electric propulsion system that offers many benefits including improved fuel efficiency, the option to use multiple energy sources and improved comfort, thanks to lower noise and vibration levels.

Pump jets combined with the Azipods can be controlled by the yacht’s dynamic positioning system, allowing ICE to anchor ‘electronically’ in shallow waters, removing the need to drop anchor and potentially damage sensitive underwater environments. Her original owner had a very clear vision of what he wanted from his yacht — it needed to be big on space with sleek lines and well-balanced proportions yet with large volumes. Design legend Tim Heywood took this brief and ran with it, resulting in a graceful yacht characterized by sweeping contours and grand windows that drench the yacht in natural light.

lurssen.com

Artefact sets sail on her maiden voyage in 2020 / ©Francisco Martinez

The impressive 262-ft Artefact , designed by Gregory C Marshall and delivered by Nobiskrug Yachts in 2020, is a head turner for more than one reason. Her striking exterior, which makes clever use of glass, is the most obvious, but her eco-credentials are her biggest asset. Built for visionary owners who specifically requested a yacht with a reduced environmental impact, Artefact’s many solutions for this brief include 248 ft of solar panels and a battery storage system that allows the yacht to operate without its main engines for periods of time.

nobiskrug.com

Juliet in the Norwegian fjords / ©Jonathan Allan

Originally launched in 1993, the 143-ft Juliet was reborn this summer after an extensive “go greener” refit at her original build yard, Royal Huisman. Newly transformed into a hybrid yacht, Juliet now bears technologies that will future-proof her for years to come. Her new hybrid system offers numerous benefits including silent operations, zero emissions, peak-shaving, shaft-generated power under sail and reduced fuel consumption. A brand-new gearbox, aligned with a sophisticated new electric motor/generator, will allow electric propulsion that is powered by either the main engine or alternatively the battery pack or generator. Meanwhile, a battery bank will allow Juliet to operate in ‘silent ship’ mode.

Swan 88 Hybrid

nautorswan.com

y.co/yacht/rainbow

The 142-ft Canova takes the title of being Baltic Yachts’s very first zero emissions yacht over 100 ft / ©Baltic Yachts

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Sw108 Hybrid

The SW108 Hybrid will allow for efficient consumption of fossil fuels and reduce harmful emissions

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To the Future…

REV Ocean will be kitted out with the latest sampling, observation, mapping and communication equipment / ©REV Ocean

Due to be completed in 2024, 600-ft REV Ocean will be the world’s largest research vessel. With construction well underway in Norway, REV Ocean is a state-of-the-art yacht that has been designed to ensure ‘one healthy ocean.’ As a luxury floating laboratory, her impressive facilities will allow her to undertake cutting-edge ocean science. She has an abundance of sustainable features, and her assets will include everything from a deep-diving submarine to a lecture theater for discussing discoveries.

revocean.org

Arksen 85 offers luxurious comfort and large onboard spaces / ©Arksen Yachts

Last year work began on the Arksen 85 — dubbed Project Ocean — the first self-proclaimed “ultimate marine exploration vessel” to be built by Arksen Yachts. Created to travel the world, with a stable, hardy design, the Arksen 85 is intended to explore with low environmental impact. She’s built in an eco-friendly way, with her hull and superstructure made from low-carbon, recycled aluminum. A range of up to 7,000 nm will give her plenty of scope for adventures, and her eco credentials include a solar array option for zero-carbon electrical power and a hybrid propulsion system.

Project AQUA

The stunning infinity pool on Project AQUA / ©Sinot Yacht Architecture & Design

Project AQUA made headlines around the world last year when rumors started that she was being built for Bill Gates. This speculation was later dispelled but, in the process, the world got a good look at the 367-ft vessel and so too a glimpse of what the future of yacht design might look like. The work of Lateral Naval Architects in collaboration with Sinot Yacht Design, hydrogen-powered Project AQUA represents how yachting might one day achieve zero carbon usage.

lateral.engineering , sinot.com

The 312-ft hybrid yacht Bliss is the most recent Feadship vessel to hit the water / ©Feadship

Built for a very hands-on owner, Bliss features an exterior design by Jan Schaffers of Studio de Voogt and interior design by Remi Tessier. This team has created an elegant style that they describe as “natural and welcoming, inside and out.” Highlights include nine cabins, a gym and wellness space, a pool and a convertible helideck. Designed for family fun and to see the world this magnificent custom yacht is a timeless triumph.

Eco Explorer

Eco Explorer concept is described as “a genuinely eco-friendly superyacht” / ©Feadship

feadship.nl , merveille-yachting.com

Vento was designed by Carlo Nuvolari and Dan Lenard to be a “manifesto for environmental protection” / ©Nuvolari-Lenard

nuvolari-lenard.com

Project Crystal

Project Crystal is named for the distinctive crystalline lattice that forms a striking part of the exterior profile / ©Nick Stark Design

nickstark.design

Sunreef 80 Eco

The eco-responsible luxury craft contains the latest green technologies in the industry / ©Sunreef

sunreef-yachts-eco.com

The sailing yacht with the lowest possible environmental footprint / ©TDoS

This year saw Tillberg Design of Sweden (TDoS) release its interpretation of an eco superyacht, the 265-ft Aegir 2.0 . The design house describes it as “the sailing yacht with the lowest possible environmental footprint.” A big claim indeed. The design has a wind-electric propulsion system that recharges her batteries as she sails. This means her range is theoretically infinite – the world will be her oyster. A Dynarig sail plan will ensure excellent performance, while the trimaran hull delivers excellent seakeeping.

tillbergdesign.com

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The 13 Fastest Superyachts in the World

These boats prove that size doesn't have to mean slow..

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When American businessman John Staluppi embarked on his yachting journey, it was to break records. He wanted his first yacht to be the first boat over 100 feet to exceed 30 knots, or 34.5 mph. He achieved it with the 118-foot For Your Eyes Only, delivered in 1985. It was also the first motoryacht in the US to have a combination of MTU diesel engines with water-jet propulsion.

His second yacht would smash all previous records. Delivered by Heesen in 1988, Octopussy fulfilled the Bond enthusiast’s aim to break the then 50-knot barrier with a top end of 53.17 knots (61 mph)—a speed that every other shipyard at the time said couldn’t be done. Octopussy immediately entered the record books as the world’s fastest yacht.

“That record was important to me because when you pull into any place there’s always a bigger boat or a prettier boat, but there aren’t many people who can say, ‘Hey, this is the fastest yacht in the world,’” Staluppi told Robb Report .

Heesen’s latest delivery, the 197-foot Ultra G , is one of the Dutch yard’s fastest projects these days, with a propulsion package totaling 22,000 horsepower, including four water jets that deliver a top speed of 37 knots (42.57 mph).

Of course, 43 mph is a paltry number compared to many of the yachts on this list, including the new Bolide 80. That Italian stallion, which will make its debut at the Monaco Yacht Show, runs at a blistering 84 mph. It shows that speed, even in the large motoryacht category, is very much alive.

Here are 13 of the fastest motoryachts, past and present, that have ever been on the water.

1. Bolide 80 | 84 mph

Victory Marine calls the Bolide 80 its first “Hyper Muscle Yacht,” which will be part of a limited-edition series from 60 to 170 feet. Designer Brunello Acampora and his tema of engineers pulled out all the stops on this 80, creating a full-carbon-fiber boat with more than 6,000 horsepower. The multi-stepped hull helps propel the Bolide to its top speed of 70 knots (84 mph), while accomplishing the seemingly impossible task of burning about half the fuel of a much smaller flybridge motoryacht at lower cruising speeds. The designer took care to give the Bolide a streamlined profile, with aerodynamic shapes to reduce resistance. The interior includes the captain’s cabin, a full-sized galley, open salon, and a forward owner’s area with a bedroom, en suite and wardrobe area. It will make its global debut at the Monaco Yacht Show.

2. ‘Foners’ | 80.56 mph

Clocking a thrilling 70.10 knots (80.56 mph), the 136-foot Foners has maintained pole position as the world’s fastest superyacht for over 20 years. Powered by two 1,280hp MAN engines coupled to three Rolls-Royce 6,700 hp gas turbines driving three KaMeWa water jets, the all-aluminum boat is less about piercing waves and more about parting the seas. Delivered in 2000 by Spanish shipyard Izar as the King of Spain’s royal yacht, no expense was spared, including a superstructure lined with Aramid fiber for the express purpose of bulletproofing the interior.

3. ‘World Is Not Enough’ | 77.1 mph

You need to only look at the 007-inspired name to know that World Is Not Enough is another rapid racer commissioned by John Staluppi, this time with an opulent interior designed by his wife Jeanette in partnership with Evan K Marshall. Delivered in 2004 by Millennium Super Yachts, the 139-footer is powered by two Paxman diesel engines and two Lycoming gas turbines to produce a staggering 20,600hp and a breathtaking 67 knots (77.1 mph). When not leaving other boats behind, World Is Not Enough has a cruising range of 3800 nautical miles at a comfortable speed of 10 knots.

4. ‘Galeocerdo’ | 74.8 mph

Wally founder Luca Bassani designed the 118-foot Galeocerdo to maintain speed in rough seas. Launched in 2003 by Rodriquez Yachts, the boat racks up an eye-watering 65 knots (74.8 mph), thanks to its three Vericor TF50 gas turbines, each driving a Rolls-Royce KaMeWa water jet. Another performance-enhancing feature is the lightweight titanium exhaust system designed to resist the extreme temperatures generated by the gas turbines. Wind tunnel tested at the Ferrari facility in Maranello, Italy, the boat generates 16,800hp and a 45-knot (51.8-mph) cruising speed that’s faster than most motoryachts running flat out. It also enjoys a highly futuristic exterior design.

5. Tecnomar for Lamborghini 63 | 72.5 mph

When Italian supercar brand Lamborghini teamed up with yachting stalwart The Italian Sea Group, the end result had to be style and performance. The Tecnomar for Lamborghini 63 is all about the power of ‘63’. Designed and built to celebrate the year 1963 when Ferruccio Lamborghini founded his car company, the 63-footer delivers a whiplashing top speed of 63 knots (72.5 mph). And naturally, it’s one of just 63 in the series that will ever be made. Built out of carbon fiber, it’s fitted with two MAN V12-2000HP engines. MMA fighter Conor McGregor took delivery of hull number one in 2020, which reportedly cost $4 million.

6. ‘Chato’ | 71.9 mph

Back in the mid-1980s, passionate Baglietto customer and leading US Porsche and VW dealer Baron John von Neumann, commissioned a new 85-ft. speed demon from the Italian builder. The entrepreneur was tired of his 34-knot (39-mph) Baglietto getting creamed from Monaco to St. Tropez by faster cruisers. With a hull design by the legendary Alcide Sculati, the all-aluminum Chato came with MTU’s latest 3,480hp V16s coupled to KaMeWa waterjets. Weighing 60 tons, and packing almost 7,000 hp, the military-looking superyacht with its battleship-gray paint and bright-red diagonal hull stripes, hit an astonishing top speed of 62.5 knots (71.9 mph) during sea trials. Chato is currently for sale in the South of France for $715,000.

7. ‘Oci Ciornie’ | 69.04 mph

Oci Ciornie’s Vripack-designed interior may take inspiration from aircraft designs, but it’s the boat’s naval architecture by Don Shead and the combination of two 1,800hp MTU 16V 2000 M90 engines, a 4,600 hp AVCO Lycoming gas turbine and Arneson surface drives that put it on this list. Delivered in 1998 by Palmer Johnson with an aluminum hull, the 82-foot boat thrusts through water at 60 knots (69.04 mph), giving all eight guests the waterborne ride of their lives.

8. ‘Destriero’ | 68 mph

The numbers almost defy logic. With a length of 224 feet, the all-aluminum superyacht Destriero is massive. Now add a trio of GE Aviation LM1600 gas turbines totaling an insane 60,000 hp and the incredulity only increases. Flat out, Destriero could scythe through waves at a staggering 59 knots, or 68 mph. Back in 1992, just one year after its launch, the Fincantieri-built rocketship showed its chops by challenging the famous Blue Riband trans-Atlantic speed record. Averaging 53.09 knots for the 3,106 nautical-mile run, Destriero shattered the record, only to be denied the trophy for being classed as a private yacht and not a commercial passenger vessel. Sadly, today the iconic yacht lies largely abandoned at one of Lurssen’s yards in Germany, awaiting rescue.

9. ‘Ermis²’ | 65.59 mph

Some yachts feature slippery hull designs, others are propelled by rockets, but the McMullen & Wing-built Ermis² is one of the fastest yachts on the superyacht circuit thanks to its lightweight materials. Built from a combination of carbon/epoxy, aerospace grade carbon fiber and titanium, the 123-foot boat taps out at 57 knots (65.59 mph.) Delivered in 2007, its 10,944 horsepower comes from three MTU 16V 4000 M90 engines. Designed inside and out by Rob Humphreys, its classic looks disguise the speed demon within.

10. ‘Why Not U’ | 63.3 mph

Why Not U is a yacht that comfortably cruises at 47 knots (54.1 mph)—a speed most owners only dream of reaching. When time is of the essence, the boat cranks up its Vericor TF40 gas turbine engines to max out at 55 knots (63.3 mph). Delivered by Overmarine in 2001, Why Not U ’s 4.3-foot draft makes it well suited for cruising shallow waters, while its sunbathing areas allow guests to catch some rays traveling at the speed of light.

11. ‘Alamshar’ | 52 mph

Alamshar is another custom collaboration between Donald Blount and Pininfarina commissioned by Aga Khan IV, this time with interiors by Redman Whiteley Dixon. It was reportedly built for an estimated $200 million at the Devonport shipyard in Falmouth, United Kingdom, and took 13 years to complete. When it was eventually delivered in 2014, Alamshar’s top speed of 45 knots (51.78 mph), generated by twin Rolls-Royce Marine engines and three waterjets, seemed worth the wait.

12. ‘Moon Goddess’ | 51.78 mph

Exterior designed by Espen Øino with an interior by Franco Zuretti, the all-aluminum Moon Goddess is a 115-foot yacht with a turquoise hull that matches the color of its oversized leather sunpads. When cruising at 30 knots (34.52 mph) or tearing up the oceans at 45 knots (51.78 mph), most other boats just catch a glimpse of sea spray that the planing yacht leaves in its wake. It’s powered by twin MTU 16V 4000 M90 diesel engines with twin water jets, which generate a combined 7,498 hp.

13. ‘Azzam’ | 35.7 mph

At a staggering 590 feet bow-to-stern, the Lurssen-built Azzam earns the title of world’s longest privately owned gigayacht. But with its remarkable-for-the-size top speed of 31 knots (35.7 mph), it’s also the fastest. Twin 12,000hp MTU V20 turbo-diesels do the day-to-day powering at up to 18 knots (20.7 mph). But crank up the twin GE LM2500 gas turbines, coupled to four Wartsila waterjets, and there’s a staggering 94,000hp on tap. Of course, like Azzam ‘s original owner, it helps if you own a few oil wells: At max speed, the yacht reportedly burns 13 tons of fuel an hour. Launched in 2013 at a reported cost of some $600 million, Azzam accommodates 30 guests pampered by up to 80 crew.

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Aquarius: Modern classic masterpiece makes for a surprisingly sensible superyacht

August 27, 2020

Named for the sign of astrological quality, this stunning 186ft world-cruising ketch is the result of serious sailors challenging the best of the best to produce something elegant, fast and seaworthy. Rupert Holmes reports

A demanding brief for Aquarius from experienced sailors has produced a masterpiece from some of the most experienced and talented brains in the superyacht world. Within five months of handover she had already clocked up 11,000 miles.

It’s often tempting to sum up new yachts with a short phrase describing their key characteristics. The brief for Aquarius included that she should be, ‘an elegant, muscular sailing yacht with a classic profile for family enjoyment’. But that barely scratches the surface of the main requirements for this giant ketch.

The owners also wanted a yacht that would combine good seakeeping characteristics with performance, reliability and quality. Essential features included relative simplicity, robustness of systems and a contemporary interpretation of elegant, classic lines, with a clean and uncomplicated appearance.

Aquarius ’s graceful lines and timeless shape belie a rugged world cruiser configured to be self-sufficient for extended periods when voyaging well beyond the popular Med and Caribbean circuits. In addition, the yacht is welcoming for family and friends, while providing sufficient performance to compete in superyacht regattas .

Designed to perform

“The owner loves sailing, so top performance was important,” says Dykstra’s Erik Wassen, who led the design team. “Not to the level of a racing yacht, but having the feeling of sailing well and being responsive like a smaller yacht.” A further stipulation was that the boat should not be experimental. The result is a sensible superyacht interpretation of a performance yacht.

With a whopping 50ft of bow and stern overhangs, there’s far less internal volume than might be expected for a yacht of this length. Also maximum beam is less than one-sixth of the overall length. Even so, any temptation to spoil the lines by raising the black-painted freeboard to provide more space for systems was successfully resisted.

Article continues below…

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Sea Eagle II: The inside story of the world’s largest aluminium sailing yacht

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Liara: The Baltic 112 superyacht designed to cruise the world in supreme comfort

Over the past decade we’ve been treated to the rise of the custom built cruiser-racer. Arguably inspired by the success…

Considerable work and talent was therefore needed to fit all the requirements into the slender hull. The design team repeatedly honed the arrangements until everything would fit, including adequate space for crew accommodation and servicing of systems.

A fixed 4.8m draught keel fits with the theme of simplicity, while also freeing up the internal space that a lifting or telescopic keel would otherwise occupy. Wassen says: “If it was for optimum performance, you go to seven, eight, nine, ten metres.” The problem is that quickly stops being practical, so his aim was to: “try to get her in the same sort of harbours as the J Class yachts – you can still enter St Barth’s Bucket , for instance.”

Computational Flow Dynamics (CFD) work informed the final hull shape. “In our first hull design we noticed the centre of effort shifted when going from close-hauled to a beam reach to running,” says Wassen. “By optimising the hull shape in the CFD we could minimise that effect, giving much more equal rudder pressure on different points of sail.”

modern-classic-royal-huisman-superyacht-aquarius-crew-credit-Carlo-Baroncini

A sense of scale as the seemingly tiny figures prepare the mizzen staysail

The response and feel of a smaller boat was achieved “through having an ample sail plan – the boat has lots of sail – and giving her lots of stability,” he adds. “We kept her as light as possible, which is always difficult because of the weight of the systems and of the ballast needed to provide stability.”

Aquarius ’s skipper James Turner has been very impressed with the handling so far: “With the correct sail plan Aquarius is a delight on the helm, responsive with weight to the wheel,” he reports. “Contrary to what her length and volume might suggest, she feels lively yet forgiving, almost playful on the wheel.”

A clean and uncluttered deck layout was a key priority, but was rendered more difficult by the lack of bulwarks. The profiles of both deckhouses were kept as low as possible, while individual sails are sheeted to similar points, which concentrates deck gear in discrete locations.

modern-classic-royal-huisman-superyacht-aquarius-helm-controls-credit-Carlo-Baroncini

Despite her significant sail area, push-button controls mean Aquarius can be sailed by three

Clustering several different items into a single feature also helped to achieve this goal. For example, the boxes for vents and skylights ahead of the main deckhouse also form the backrests for the cushions when this area is used for sun lounging. In addition they house discrete B&G units that provide headsail and spinnaker trimmers with the key data needed for racing.

Project manager Godfrey Cray was keen to use halyard locks to reduce the number of winches around the mast base – the final arrangement has just two winches here instead of the usual four. Attention to detail extends to the cowl vents that have a protection ring of black composite below the polished stainless steel caps so that there is no chance of lines snagging.

The large mizzen was a feature from the inception of the project and provides a powerful configuration for fast reaching and downwind sailing with the mizzen staysail set. A further advantage of this sail plan is that no compromises were needed to keep air draught below the Panamax limit.

modern-classic-royal-huisman-superyacht-aquarius-bow-running-shot-credit-Carlo-Baroncini

Optimised hull shape and big sail area means Aquarius has the response and feel of a smaller yacht

Doyle Sails New Zealand was involved in the project from an early stage, which gave time to tweak the sail plan and for aerodynamic and finite element analysis work to optimise the deck layout and improve overall load predictions. Aquarius is a fast enough boat for the apparent wind to often be forward of the beam.

A 1,580m2 running asymmetric spinnaker is included in the inventory and is clearly important when racing. However, optimisation of the reaching sails was also a priority to enable Aquarius to realise her enormous potential. In addition to the main and mizzen a 460m2 mizzen staysail and 770m2 Code 0 boost the sail area to an impressive 2,200m2 when reaching.

Rondal performance furling booms are a key means of simplifying sail handling , without compromising performance. They allow control of the foot tension of the sail, while providing a very practical means of reefing and stowing the sails.

modern-classic-royal-huisman-superyacht-aquarius-rondal-rig-credit-Carlo-Baroncini

“Typically, these systems are getting more and more reliable,” says Wassen. “There are hardly any boats that are not specifying them, except for some that go all the way to more racy slab reefing systems to reduce weight aloft.”

Square-top sails were shunned because of the difficulties of handling the top batten. However, the large roach main and mizzen still require running backstays, which are handled by captive winches. “They take more space and are heavier,” says Wassen, “but the captive winches mean you always have the opportunity to ease the runners under load if you have to make an unexpected tack or gybe.”

The twin wheels are positioned far enough outboard to give good sight lines to the bow and the rig. Key sail controls are also located at each helm station to facilitate easy handling. A drawback to this, though, is that you can’t always see the function you’re adjusting. “It’s something we don’t often do,” says Wassen, “and making it look inconspicuous and classic is difficult.”

modern-classic-royal-huisman-superyacht-aquarius-deck-detail-credit-Carlo-Baroncini

The solution was a more modern style console with a lot of controls that are fully concealed by hinged teak covers when not in use. This enables the boat to be sailed with only three people on deck.

Key challenges

While the brief for Aquarius deliberately avoided pushing hard against the boundaries of engineering and materials technology, there were still many challenges to overcome before the owners’ vision and dream could be realised.

In particular, a huge effort was needed to fit the accommodation and systems into the low-volume hull. This involved an iterative process between four parties – naval architect, interior designer, the engineers at Royal Huisman, and the owners – to ensure systems and adequate crew quarters could be accommodated, while leaving enough space for the owner and guest accommodation to meet the brief.

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There is plenty of relaxation space split across Aquarius’s three cockpits

Interior designer Mark Whiteley initially presented two concepts – one for a relatively dark panelled interior, the other with mahogany furniture and trim balanced by white wall spaces. After the two had been mocked up at full scale for a section of the boat, the owners chose the lighter option. Whiteley subsequently described his challenge as creating, “a light and contemporary classic feel, rather than a more sombre and historically referenced one”.

While this early decision informed the big picture, he says the finer details needed careful judgement to give the boat its unique feel. The final coat of white paint on the wall panels, for instance, was brushed by hand to provide additional character and interest. He says: “This added to the relaxed informality and chic, understated quality you might associate with a house in the Hamptons.”

The main cockpit is the primary social hub of the boat, so considerable effort was put into refining it. This extended to the folding arrangements for the tables and to the design of the additional fold-away seats that face the main U-shape seating areas.

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Mahogany joinery is balanced by white trim

The owner wanted a single floor level in the deckhouse, without a higher level for the seating areas, while retaining a view through the windows when sitting down. The lower edge of the windows therefore needed to be brought down as far as possible, which in turn provides a lot of natural light. The skylights also help to flood the interior with natural light.

Two versions of the magnificent owner’s suite were mocked up full-size to ensure every aspect was optimised to the maximum extent possible. There’s ample natural light from the large oval fan light around the mizzen mast, plus four port lights.

The bed is positioned to give a view towards the stairs to the private aft deckhouse, which opens onto its own cockpit. Attention to detail extends to secure stowage for water carafes and personal items.

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Natural light floods into the owner’s suite from large fanlights around masts

Guest accommodation includes two double suites, plus a further flexible cabin that’s primarily configured as a twin. Two extra berths can be provided here to accommodate a larger number of children, via a Pullman on the inboard side and a recessed bed that drops down from the deckhead on the outboard side. A great deal of effort was expended to ensure there is no evidence of these extra beds when the cabin is in its normal mode.

There’s also a fully equipped gym, plus a lower saloon, with a huge cinema screen and top end concealed sound system. Quarters for up to 10 crew are provided in five cabins forward. This area has its own access from the foredeck, while guest areas can also be reached from the galley.

What does Whitely like most about the accommodation? “The relaxed feel and the balance between the classic and the contemporary, it really works. I also like the owner’s suite a lot: it’s a fantastic living space.”

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The owner’s suite includes private aft deckhouse

Aquarius is the latest addition to a very distinguished lineage of modern classics produced in the past decade by a collaboration between Dykstra and Royal Huisman, including Kamixitha , Meteor and Pumula .

It’s a stunningly successful partnership that, with Aquarius , has produced another beautiful new superyacht that combines the ultimate in elegance with superlative comfort, style and performance.

Specification

LOA: 56.18m (184ft 4in) LWL: 41.17m (135ft 1in) Beam: 9.51m (31ft 2in) Draught: 4.80m (15ft 9in) Displacement: 264 tonnes Mainsail: 520m2 (5,597ft2) Mizzen: 440m2 (4,736ft2) Blade: 430m2 (4,628ft2) Air draught: 58.50m (192ft 11in) Spars: Rondal carbon with Rondal/Carbo-Link continuous standing rigging

First published in the July 2019 issue of Supersail World.

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The top 10 fastest superyachts in the world

Despite their larger size, superyachts can still reach an impressive speed on the water – as this official list of the world’s fastest superyachts shows. For over 20 years, the 41.5-metre Izar -built yacht Foners had been outpacing her contenders with top speeds of 70 knots – equivalent to 80 miles per hour – and lay claim to the world's speediest superyacht title. But in 2023, a new contender swooped in and cinched first place. Described as a "hyper muscle yacht", the Bolide 80 entered the scene with a rapid 73-knot maximum speed.

Their challengers are not far behind. For adrenaline-seekers with a need for speed, get your pulses racing with our definitive list of the quickest superyachts on the water.

Bolide 80 | 73 knots

Built in 2023, the 24.9-metre Bolide 80 model holds the title for the fastest superyacht in the world, narrowly pipping the long-time champion, Foners , to the post. The "hyper muscle yacht" hits a blistering top speed of 73 knots with propulsion deriving from triple MAN 12 V 2000 diesel engines, each delivering around 2,000 horsepower. In terms of range, she is predicted to deliver 200 nautical miles at maximum speed, with a range of 345 nautical miles at a cruising speed of 55 knots.

Everything about the yacht's design has been carefully considered, from its aerodynamic-engineered exterior to the way it harnesses foiling technology. At the intersection of performance and avant-garde design, the Bolide 80 is able to hit the impressive top speed thanks to its "multi-stepped" planing hull that generates low frictional resistance. In terms of fuel consumption, she consumes 11 litres per mile at 40 knots, 13 litres per mile at 55 knots and 16 litres per mile at 70 knots.

The interior configuration on hull one – a collaboration between Stefano Faggioni and Victory's internal design team – features an owner's cabin in the most forward part of the hull. Meanwhile, the main saloon is located on the lower deck amidships, which can be transformed into a second cabin if needed.

Builder: Bolide Yachts
Country of build: Italy
Delivery year: 2023
Length Overall: 24.9 m
Beam: 5.4 m

More about this yacht

Yachts for sale, more stories, foners | 70.1 knots.

Clocking in at a thrilling 70.1 knots, the 41.5-metre Foners once raced to the top spot as the world’s fastest superyacht but is now narrowly trumped by the Bolide 100. She’s been difficult to catch up with, having maintained her position since her delivery in 2000.

Her zippy speed is produced by two 1,280hp MAN engines coupled with three Rolls Royce 6,700hp gas turbines that drive three KaMeWa water jets. But she is not just about speed; her interior, designed by Studio Spadolini is quite literally fit for a king. Originally built by Spanish shipyard Izar as the King of Spain’s royal yacht , the DLBA-designed Foners features interiors finished in elegant gloss sycamore wood panelling with stitched tan leather detailing. She can accommodate eight guests and six crew on board, and her superstructure has been lined with Aramid fibre for the express purpose of making it bullet proof. There is a formal dining room indoors, while the deck spaces are vast offering plenty of opportunities for al fresco entertaining. At a cruising speed of 12 knots, she has a range of 1,800 nautical miles.

Builder: Izar
Country of build: Spain
Delivery year: 2000
Length Overall: 41.5 m
Beam: 9.2 m
Gross Tonnage 180 t

World Is Not Enough | 67 Knots

World Is Not Enough comes third to Foners by just a fraction, able to reach a respectable top speed of 67 knots. She was delivered in 2004 by Millenium Super Yachts and designed by Dutch naval architect Frank Mulder . She is propelled by two Paxman diesel engines and two Lycoming gas turbines, producing a staggering 20,600hp. She also boasts an impressive cruising range of 3,800 nautical miles at a comfortable speed of 10 knots.

World Is Not Enough measures 42.4 metres LOA and can accommodate 10 guests on board in five luxurious cabins, along with seven crew members. When not ploughing through the waves at full throttle, she offers plenty of space for relaxation, with al fresco dining and lounge spaces available on all decks and an additional formal dining space and bar indoors. Her interiors have been designed in a classic style by Evan K. Marshall and feature marble finishes, opulent mirrors and glossy wood panelling. She was last refitted in 2011.

Builder: Neptunus - Millennium
Country of build: Netherlands
Delivery year: 2004
Length Overall: 42.4 m
Beam: 8.25 m
Gross Tonnage 291 t

Galeocerdo | 65 Knots

The sleek lines and futuristic design of Rodriquez Yachts’ Galeocerdo is the result of exhaustive research and design development programme by Wally founder Luca Bassani. Created with the aim of maintaining high speeds in rough seas, the 36-metre Wally Power 118 superyacht was launched in 2003 following tank testing at the SSPA facility in Goteborg, Sweden, and wind tunnel testing at the Ferrari facility in Maranello, Italy. Lazzarini Pickering Architetti and Intermarine also collaborated on the design of Galeocredo .

Galeocerdo is driven to a top speed of 65 knots by three Vericor TF50 gas turbines, each driving a Rolls-Royce Kamewa water jet. The titanium exhaust system is lightweight while extremely resistant to the high temperatures generated by the gas turbines, and can muster up to 16,800hp. At a cruising speed of 45 knots, she can cover a range of 1,500 nautical miles. Her interiors offer room for six guests and six crew on board.

Builder: Rodriquez Yachts
Delivery year: 2003
Length Overall: 36 m

Kereon | 62.3 Knots

Launched in 2004 by Italian yard AB Yachts, Kereon can blast through waves at a top speed of 62.3 knots. This punchy performance is made possible by a triple 6,300hp CRM diesel engine set-up fitted to a fast planing hull designed by naval architect Angelo Arnaboldi . Inside Kereon can accommodate up to six guests in three cabins, while her 12,000-litre fuel tank means a maximum range of 900 nautical miles is possible at her fast cruising speed of 50 knots. The 35.7-metre superyacht features sharp exterior lines and a distinctive metallic silver superstructure that contribute to her sporty allure.

Builder: AB Yachts - Next Yacht Group
Length Overall: 27 m
Beam: 6.4 m

Oci Ciornie | 60 Knots

Prolific naval architect Don Shead teamed up with American yard Palmer Johnson and Dutch shipbuilders Vripack in 1998 to create Oci Ciornie . This aluminium-hulled speed machine was fitted with twin 1,800hp MTU 16V 2000 M90 engines, a 4,600hp AVCO Lycoming gas turbine and Arneson surface drives for a staggering top speed of 60 knots.

Her interiors can accommodate up to eight guests in three cabins consisting of a master suite, double cabin and twin room with a pair of pullman berths. The deck saloon and forward outside spaces are all located on one level for a streamlined look, and the interior of the main saloon takes design cues from vintage aircraft design. The 25-metre superyacht can also accommodate two crew on board.

Builder: Palmer Johnson
Country of build: United States of America
Delivery year: 1998
Length Overall: 25 m
Beam: 6.22 m

Azimut Atlantic Challenger | 60 knots

Designed purely for the purposes of collecting the Blue Riband award, the Azimut Atlantic Challenger was launched by Benetti in 1988 with exterior details by Pininfarina . The 26.82-metre aluminium monohull can reach a top speed of 60 knots under the power of four CRM diesel engines offering 7,400hp. At a cruising speed of 40 knots, she has a range of 3,000 nautical miles. Unfortunately, her attempt to procure the Blue Riband shortly after her launch in 1988 was ultimately fruitless.

Builder: Benetti
Delivery year: 1988
Length Overall: 26.82 m
Beam: 7.5 m

AB 100 | 60 knots

Forming part of AB Yachts ' 30-metre AB100 series, sisterships Yunga and El Mirlo secure 10th place in the list of the fastest superyachts in the world. The sportfly models were the first to be launched since the series was redesigned in 2021 and boast impressive credentials: a top speed of 60 knots, cruising speed of 37 knots, and maximum cruising range of 550 nautical miles at 45 knots, with power coming from a pair of MTU diesel engines. The AB100 series is known for its "breathtaking" speeds upwards of 50 knots, which the Viareggio-based shipyard claims can be reached "almost without noticing". Interior design on both yachts is owed to Archea Associati with accommodation for up to 10 guests across four staterooms.

Delivery year: 2021
Length Overall: 30.5 m
Beam: 6.8 m
Gross Tonnage 147 t

Jet Ruban Bleu | 60 knots

Neck-and-neck with Brave Challenger , Azimut Atlantic Challenger, OCI Ciorinie and the AB100 is the 25-metre Jet Ruban Bleu . Delivered in 1990 by Multiplast , and designed by Gilles Ollier together with Coste Design & Partners , she is powered by a single MTU 3,500hp engine and can reach a top speed of 60 knots. At a speed of 50 knots she has a cruising range of 3,000 nautical miles. She features a planing GRP hull and superstructure, with her decks also constructed from GRP.

Builder: Multiplast
Country of build: France
Delivery year: 1990
Beam: 4.39 m

Brave Challenger | 60 Knots

Powered by three Rolls-Royce Proteus gas turbines totalling 13,500hp, the 31-metre Brave Challenger has proven top speeds of over 60 knots and can achieve higher speeds using its alternative Vosper-developed high-speed propellers.

Built by Vosper Ltd in Portsmouth in 1961, Brave Challenger is the only surviving example of the Brave Class fast-patrol design that was designed and built for the Royal Navy. Built alongside the Royal Navy’s HMS Brave Borderer and HMS Brave Swordsman , Brave Challenger was completed with a special consent of the Admiralty and Royal Navy to be equipped for private use.

First acquired by owner W.G. Haydon-Baillie in 1979, Brave Challenger was rebuilt to flagship standard at a purpose-built facility as part of the Haydon-Baillie Aircraft and Naval Collection in Southampton over a period of 10 years and 2.2 million man hours from 1979 – 1989. From 2017 – 2021, Brave Challenger underwent a full restoration by the Haydon-Baillie Maritime Heritage Team at the superyacht refit yard Trafalgar Shipyard in Portsmouth. Its dedicated support base now includes 54 spare Rolls-Royce Proteus gas turbine engines, extensive spares, 10 spare V-Drive gearboxes and 12 spare propellers.

"Brave Challenger ’s speed of 60-plus knots was officially recorded under Lloyds Supervision over the Measured Mile off Portsmouth, UK – and is fully repeatable at all times as part of its design and everyday operating potential," according to owner W.G Haydon-Baillie. "It is often considered that only the fastest yacht speeds that are officially recorded and are not one-off events – and are fully repeatable as part of the yacht's design and everyday operating potential are relevant to include in the top 10 fastest claims."

Builder: Vosper
Country of build: United Kingdom
Delivery year: 1960
Length Overall: 31.39 m
Beam: 7.32 m
Gross Tonnage 209 t

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The 13 Fastest Superyachts in the World

1. Bolide 80 | 84 mph

2. ‘Foners’ | 80.56 mph

3. ‘World Is Not Enough’ | 77.1 mph

4. ‘Galeocerdo’ | 74.8 mph

5. Tecnomar for Lamborghini 63 | 72.5 mph

6. ‘Chato’ | 71.9 mph

7. ‘Oci Ciornie’ | 69.04 mph

8. ‘Destriero’ | 68 mph

9. ‘Ermis²’ | 65.59 mph

10. ‘Why Not U’ | 63.3 mph

11. ‘Alamshar’ | 52 mph

12. ‘Moon Goddess’ | 51.78 mph

13. ‘Azzam’ | 35.7 mph

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Key challenges

Specification

The top 10 fastest superyachts in the world

Bolide 80 | 73 knots

More about this yacht

World Is Not Enough | 67 Knots

Galeocerdo | 65 Knots

Kereon | 62.3 Knots

Oci Ciornie | 60 Knots