top 20 biggest yachts in the world

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

Multimillion-dollar mega yachts.

by Emma Treagus Published on February 2, 2024

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

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

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

The 26 largest yachts in the world

Multimillion-dollar mega yachts: our ranking methodology.

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

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

26. Y721 (aka Koru) | 417 feet—127m

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

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

25. Al Mirqab | 436 feet—133m

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

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

24. Serene | 439 feet—134m

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

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

23. Crescent | 445 feet – 136 m

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

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

22. Savarona | 446 feet – 136m

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

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

21. Flying Fox | 446 feet – 136m

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

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

20. Rising Sun | 454 feet – 138m

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

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

19. Al Salamah | 457 feet – 139m

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

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

18. Solaris | 458 feet – 139m

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

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

17. Scheherazade | 459 feet – 140m

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

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

16. Ocean Victory | 460 feet – 140m

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

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

15. Yas | 463 feet – 141m

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

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

14. Nord | 465 feet – 142m

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

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

13. Sailing Yacht A | 469 feet—142.8m

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

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

12. El Mahrousa | 478 feet – 146m

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

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

11. OK | 479 feet—146m

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

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

10. Opera | 480 feet—146.4m 

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

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

9. Prince Abdulaziz | 482 feet – 147m

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

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

8. A+ | 483 feet – 147m

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

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

7. Al Said | 508 feet – 155m

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

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

6. Dilbar | 511 feet – 156m

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

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

5. Blue | 527 feet—160.6m

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

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

4. Dubai | 531 feet – 162m

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

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

3. Eclipse | 533 feet – 162.5m

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

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

2. Fulk Al Salamah | 538 feet – 164m

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

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

1. Azzam | 590 feet – 181m

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

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

The largest yachts in the world: Conclusion

The largest yachts in the world are:

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

The most expensive yacht in the world

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

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

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

Frequently asked questions about the world’s largest yachts

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

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

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

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

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

About the author

Emma Treagus

Women’s fashion & travel editor.

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

Learn more about Emma Treagus

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Despite the pandemic, the superyacht world continues to welcome new entries. These are the world’s biggest yachts by length.

Even in a pandemic, the size of the global superyacht fleet keeps on growing. The top 25 largest yachts in the world now total a combined 11,849 feet, with the smallest yacht on the list,  Maryah , measuring a whopping 410 feet. Built by shipyards all over the world—from the Netherlands to the United Arab Emirates, Italy, Turkey, Greece and the United Kingdom, to name just a few—new launches and refits are delivered each year. The 2021 newcomers hail from Lürssen, Dream Ship Victory and Lloyd Werft. With many new gigayacht builds in the pipeline, the list will be much more competitive in the coming years. Here are the world’s top 25 yachts by size, from  Maryah  to  Azzam.

25. ‘Maryah’ (410 feet, 1 inch), Neorion

Neorion’s  Maryah  Photo: Manuel Hernández LafuenteWATCH

This former Russian research vessel was originally launched by the Szczecinska yard in Poland. In 2010, it underwent a five-year rebuild at the Elefsis yard in Greece. The stodgy research vessel that went in reappeared in 2014 as a thoroughly modern custom-built superyacht. The UK-based  H2 Yacht Design  did both the interior and exterior, incorporating all the luxuries one would expect in a yacht this size. The swimming pool, spa, contemporary decor (including custom furniture, signature joinery, and bespoke details like fixtures and lighting), and generous interior space turned the ugly duckling into a swan.  Maryah , which reaches a top speed of 18 knots powered by a twin azipods propulsion system, has accommodation for 54 guests.

24. ‘Octopus’ (414 feet), Lürssen

Lürssen’s  Octopus  Elizabeth Withe

Originally built by Lürssen for Microsoft cofounder Paul Allen, eight-decked  Octopus  is the world’s largest expedition yacht. Allen kept all the luxurious features of a superyacht, but wanted  Octopus  to be able to set anchor at the ends of the earth for exploration. The Lürssen, delivered in 2003, has storage for two helicopters, seven tenders, a large SUV and an internal dock that extends through the hull holding two submersibles. A glass-bottomed observation lounge makes for spectacular viewing when cruising. The yacht has been involved in multiple exploration discoveries, aided by its onboard dive centre and hyperbaric chamber. Espen Øino drew the exterior, including a full-sized basketball court on the aft deck, while Jonathan Quinn Barnett did the interior. The yacht underwent a refit in 2019. It reaches a top end of 20 knots.

23. ‘Al Mirqab’ (436 feet, 4 inches), Kusch Yachts

Kusch Yachts’ Al Mirqab  Photo: Shutterstock / PitK

Launched in 2008,  Al Mirqab  was built for Qatar’s former prime minister under the supervision of  Kusch Yachts  in the  Peters Werft shipyard  in Wewelsfleth, Germany. The Tim Heywood exterior includes a long, navy-blue hull with a white superstructure. The yacht’s diesel-electric propulsion involves an azimuth pod drive and gives the 436.4-footer a top end of 21 knots. Its interior by Andrew Winch won several awards, with images showing Arabic-influenced motifs on the marble floors of large social areas. The yacht’s centerpiece is a stunning, complicated floating staircase encircled by custom-made glass panels.  Al Mirqab  has staterooms for 36, and crew quarters for 45.

22. ‘Serene’ (439 feet, 3 inches), Fincantieri

Fincantieri’s  Serene  Photo: Nick Wells

Serene  was  Fincantieri ’s launch into the superyacht segment, and what a debut it was. The largest yacht ever launched in Italy when it was delivered in 2011 (surpassed three years later by  Ocean Victory ), the Espen Øino seven-deck design features a long, sleek blue hull, crowned by a white superstructure. The somewhat racy curves serve as a nice counterpart to the more serious-looking sections of the yacht, which include cutouts along the main and upper decks to allow strong visibility from the saloon and staterooms. The curved balconies on three levels are a nice touch that work aesthetically—and practically for better views. The open stern area has a winter garden (enclosed glass house) that allows dining in all seasons.  Serene  also has two helipads and a hangar, a big swimming pool, and a tender garage large enough for a submarine. Pascale Reymond of Reymond Langton Design created the 43,056-square-foot interior for the Russian owner, though its details have remained closely guarded.

21. ‘Crescent’ (443 feet), Lürssen

Lürssen’s  Crescent  Photo: Klaus Jordan

Espen Øino’s dark hull and tiered superstructure was one of the most exciting launches of 2018. Custom-built Project Thunder, as it was called internally at Lürssen, features cut-outs along the hull sides that allow full ocean views from the saloon on the primary deck, as part of  Crescent ’s distinctive curved superstructure. Its most noteworthy feature is the jaw-dropping bank of three-deck-high windows in the center of the yacht. This architectural feature serves as the centerpiece of a very compelling design. The yacht has accommodations for 18 guests in nine staterooms. Little is known about the François Zuretti-designed interior, other than Lürssen describes it as being “traditionally styled.” If it lives up to  Crescent ’s brash exterior, the complete yacht promises to be an entirely groundbreaking design.

20. ‘Savarona’ (446 feet, 2 inches), Blohm+Voss

Blohm+Voss’s  Savarona  

Launched in 1931,  Savarona  was built for American heiress Emily Roebling Cadwallader. The yacht was eventually acquired by Turkey to be the presidential yacht of Kemal Atatürk, founder of modern Turkey.  Jane’s Fighting Ships  described the yacht in 1949 as “probably the most sumptuously fitted yacht afloat.”  Savarona  was later converted to a training ship for the Turkish Navy and, in 1978, destroyed by fire. The yacht laid in tatters for 10 years. A Turkish businessman spent around $45 million refurbishing  Savarona , commissioning Donald Starkey for the interior and replacing the original steam-turbine engines with modern Caterpillar diesels. The yacht’s interior was refitted again in 2013, once again becoming the official presidential yacht in 2014.  Savarona  features a swimming pool, Turkish bath, 280-foot grand staircase, a movie theater, and a library dedicated to Atatürk.

19: ‘Flying Fox’ (446 feet, 2 inches), Lürssen

Lürssen’s  Flying Fox  Photo: Courtesy of SuperYachtTimes/Youtube

Delivered jointly by Imperial and Lürssen in 2019, 446.2-foot  Flying Fox  is the largest yacht available on the charter market. Key features of the Espen Øino-designed exterior are a curvaceous dove-gray hull and a 3.7-foot swimming pool that runs athwartship on the main aft deck, the largest ever found on board a yacht. A two-decked spa also gives guests access to a cryosauna, hammam and relaxation room with a fold-down balcony at sea level. Packed to the rafters with the latest amenities, the yacht holds a diving center, decompression chamber and two helipads.  Flying Fox  is PYC compliant and can accommodate 25 guests.

18. ‘Rising Sun’ (454 feet, 1 inch), Lürssen

Lürssen’s  Rising Sun  Photo: Courtesy of Lürssen

Designed by the original guru of yacht designers, Jon Bannenberg,  Rising Sun  was built by Lürssen for Oracle CEO Larry Ellison, and is currently owned by billionaire David Geffen. The yacht was delivered in 2004 and last refitted in 2011. Defined by banks of windows across the superstructure,  Rising Sun  has 86,000 square feet of living space in 82 rooms. It can accommodate 18 guests in nine cabins, with the capacity to carry up to 46 crew. The interior by Seccombe Design includes a gym, cinema, and wine cellar. The rear cockpit deck was designed as a basketball court. Geffen received a global media backlash in 2020 for his “tone deaf” social media posts that pictured himself on board his yacht during Covid-19 lockdown.

17. ‘Al Salamah’ (456 feet), Lürssen

Lürssen’s  Al Salamah  Lürssen

When Lürssen launched  Al Salamah  in 1999, it was the third-largest yacht in the world. Its ranking at number 14 shows how much has changed in the last 20 years. Code-named MIPOS, or Mission Possible, the yacht was designed by  Terence Disdale . The large imposing exterior is primarily protected space, with an upper deck exposed to the elements.  Al Salamah  has staterooms for 40 guests, including two owner suites, 11 VIP staterooms, and eight twin cabins. The yacht can carry up to 96 crew and has a top speed of 22 knots.  Al Salamah  was last refitted in 2009.

16. ‘Scheherazade’ (459 feet, 3 inches), Lürssen

Lürssen’s  Scheherazade  Photo: SuperYacht Times/YouTube

The owner of 459.3-feet Lürssen-built  Scheherazade  (formerly known as Project Lightning) finally took delivery of the mega yacht in June 2020 after it was pictured during sea trials in November 2019. What can so far be deciphered from available photography includes two helipads, forward and aft, and a large beach club aft, as well as a reported seven-foot beam. Very few details have yet been released of the highly private vessel, including even the names of designers or naval architects involved with the build.

15: ‘Ocean Victory’ (459 feet, 3 inches), Fincantieri

Fincantieri’s  Ocean Victory  Photo: Trevor Coppock / TheYachtPhoto.com

The largest motoryacht ever built in Italy, Fincantieri’s  Ocean Victory  was delivered to its owner in 2014. The seven-deck exterior by Espen Øino includes two helideck platforms and a hangar belowdecks, as well as exceptional outdoor social areas, and a floodable tender dock.  Ocean Victory  has accommodations for 28 guests as well as quarters for 56 crew.  Ocean Victory  also has six pools, a 3,300-square-foot spa, and an underwater observation room. The interior by Alberto Pinto remains a secret.

14: ‘Solaris’ (459 feet, 3 inches), Lloyd Werft

Solaris  by Lloyd-Werft Courtesy Lloyd Werft

The 476-foot  Solaris  is one of the largest yachts to deliver in 2021, and yet still little is known about it. The highly private, vast explorer is built by German shipyard Lloyd Werft and undertook sea trials in the North Sea. The eight-deck exterior is by Australian designer Marc Newson and features a displacement steel hull with bulbous bow and steel superstructure with teak decks. Reportedly owned by Roman Abramovich, it houses a large helipad, sun deck and spacious beach club aft. Lloyd Werft built the Russian billionaire’s previous explorer yacht  Luna , which he reportedly sold for $360 million to his close friend Farkhad Akhmedov in 2014.

13. ‘Yas’ (462 feet, 6 inches), Abu Dhabi Mar

Abu Dhabi Mar’s  Yas  Photo: Harvey Barrison

As a converted yacht,  Yas  is one of the most interesting vessels on this list. The dolphin-like exterior was originally a former Dutch Navy frigate that launched in 1978 and eventually sold to the navy of the United Arab Emirates, where it was renamed  Al Emirat . The yacht underwent its dramatic conversion in a facility in Abu Dhabi’s main port, emerging as a gleaming superyacht in 2011, with one of the most interesting profiles on the water. It was eventually delivered four years later. The design by the Paris-based Pierrejean Vision, defined by massive glass surfaces, can accommodate 60 guests and 58 crew members. Mated to a steel hull, the superstructure is the largest composite edifice ever built.  Yas  is capable of a 26-knot top speed and was last refitted in 2019.

12. ‘Dream Symphony’ (462 feet, 6 inches), Dream Ship Victory

Dream Symphony  by Dream Ship Victory Courtesy Dream Ship Victory

Sailing yacht  Dream Symphony  is a magnificent 462.7-foot schooner built by the Turkish shipyard Dream Ship Victory. When delivered in 2021, she will become the largest private sailing yacht in the world, knocking current largest sailing yacht,  Black Pearl , off the podium. Featuring naval architecture by Dykstra Naval Architects and an exterior and interior by Ken Freivokh, she reunites the same team who were behind the legendary  Maltese Falcon ’s ground-breaking Falcon dynarig.  Dream  Symphony’s hull is being built in wood – glued and laminated using the latest epoxy and composite techniques. Wood, carbon and stainless-steel run throughout the contemporary interior, while the rig includes Hoyt booms for maximum control.  Dream Symphony  boasts a fully private owner’s duplex, with master suite, salon, and office at main deck level, and a further spa, gym and treatment rooms on the lower deck. A sheltered open deck between the owner’s facilities and the guest deck house can be closed off to bad weather, creating concealed channels for full protection. And when the sun is shining, a double-height glass swimming pool features a rising floor that can doubles up as a touch-and-go helipad or dancefloor.

11. ‘Nord’ (466 feet),  Lürssen

Lürssen’s  Nord  (Project Opus) Photo: SuperYacht Times/Youtube

Nord  (Project Opus) has been a long time coming. She was announced in 2015 but didn’t hit the water until November 2020 when she conducted sea trials in the Baltic Sea. The 466-foot yacht features interior design by Italian studio Nuvolari Lenard and is Lürssen’s first yacht launched from its newly upgraded floating shed at its facility in Vegasack. Boasting many top tier amenities, the yacht includes a sports and diving center on the lower deck, multiple tenders ranging in size up to 50-feet and a large swimming pool. The two helipads support the yacht’s long-range cruising capabilities for autonomous remote exploration and a retractable hangar means the helicopter can slide neatly into the superstructure for storage when not in use. A generous 20 staterooms accommodate 36 guests across six decks, while a sleek aft-sloping superstructure gives Nord an individual profile on the water.

10. ‘A’ (468 feet, 5 inches), Nobiskrug

Nobiskrug Sailing Yacht  A  Photo: Courtesy of Nobiskrug

Delivered in 2017, the futuristic look of sailing yacht  A  includes smooth, silver-metallic surfaces and windows that look nearly invisible, three composite masts that bend slightly, and a deck hidden by high bulwarks. The Philippe Starck-design is a wild fantasy yacht of the future. The 468-foot sailing yacht is a technical victory for German yard  Nobiskrug , which developed composite fashion plates to create the unusual shapes, without any compromises in strength or fluidity. It has the tallest freestanding composite masts on any sailing vessel, a hybrid diesel-electric propulsion system and state-of-the-art navigation systems. The boat also reportedly has an underwater viewing platform in the keel. “Sailing yacht  A  is undoubtedly one of the most visionary projects Nobiskrug has ever been involved in,” said Holger Kahl, the firm’s then managing director. Starck’s interior remains a secret. The yard reports the yacht has a top speed of 21 knots. She remains today the world’s largest sailing yacht three years after her launch.

9. ‘El Mahrousa’ (478 feet, 1 inch), Samuda Brothers

Egypt’s royal yacht,  El Mahrousa  Screengrab

El Mahrousa , which means “the protected” in Arabic, is currently Egypt’s presidential yacht, though the 478.1-footer has a separate history as that country’s royal yacht. The London-based Samuda Brothers began the build in 1863, and it was launched in 1865. It was originally built for the Ottoman governor of Egypt, Khedive Ismail, and later carried three Egyptian kings into exile. The yacht was also at the opening of the Suez Canal in 1869. The world’s oldest superyacht features external design by the British naval architect Sir Oliver Lang, and has had multiple modifications over the years, including a lengthening by 40 feet in 1872 and another 17 feet in 1905. During the second refit, the owners replaced its paddle-wheel engines with turbine-driven propellers. The yacht, in care of the Egyptian Navy, occasionally goes to sea for a day or two. In 2015, it was used to inaugurate the new Suez Canal.

8. ‘Prince Abdulaziz’ (482 feet, 3 inches), Helsingør Værft

Helsingør Værft’s  Prince Abdulaziz  Photo: Shutterstock / Artesia Wells

This custom yacht, launched by Helsingør Værft in Denmark in 1984, was most recently refitted in 2005. The 5,200-tonne  Prince Abdulaziz  is one of the Saudi Royal family’s yachts, its first owner being King Fahd. Designed by Maierform, the yacht was the longest and tallest in the world at the time of its launch. At 482.3-feet,  Prince Abdulaziz  held the title for 22 years until  Dubai  launched in 2006. The late David Nightingale Hicks, known for his use of bright colors, was the interior designer. The lobby is said to be a replica of the  Titanic . Last refitted in 2005, it is rumored to be carrying surface-to-air missiles, though that may be an urban legend.

7. ‘A+’ (483 feet, 1 inch), Lürssen

Lürssen’s  A+  Photo: Klaus Jordan

Very little is known about  A+  (formerly  Topaz) , which was launched by Lürssen in 2012, other than it is the fourth-largest yacht ever built by the German shipyard. Tim Heywood Designs did the exterior, which features helipads on the foredeck and amidships on an upper deck. A lower aft deck includes a swimming pool. The German yard has not released any images of the Terence Disdale interior. Reported to be owned by Manchester City Football Club owner Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed al Nahnan – Emirati royalty and deputy prime minister of the UAE –  A+  has a top speed of 22 knots, and can carry 62 guests and up to 79 crew.

6. ‘Al Saïd’ (508 feet, 5 inches), Lürssen

Lürssen’s  Al Saïd  Courtesy of Shutterstock

Another 500-plus-foot yacht from Lürssen, the original Project Sunflower gained its official name of  Al Saïd  following its launch in 2016. Espen Øino’s exterior is akin to a classic cruise liner, complete with the twin exhaust stacks in the center of the superstructure. Owned by the Sultan of Oman, six-decked  Al Saïd  can carry 154 crew and, according to some sources, 70 guests. Lürssen says  Al Saïd  has a top speed of 22 knots. The London-based Redman Whiteley Dixon studio designed the interior, which includes a concert hall that can hold a 50-piece orchestra.

5. ‘Dilbar’ (511 feet, 8 inches), Lürssen

Lürssen’s  Dilbar  Photo: Josep Baresic

The 2016 launch of  Dilbar  gave Lürssen the distinction of not only building the longest yacht ever ( Azzam ), but also the largest in terms of volume. Espen Øino designed the exterior, creating a full-bodied superstructure of long, flowing decks, along with two helicopter pads.  Dilbar  also has an 82-foot swimming pool that can hold an incredible 6357-cubic-feet of water, and according to Lürssen, is the world’s longest on a yacht. The interior by Winch Design is defined by its “rare and exclusive luxury materials,” says the builder, declining to go into detail. Lürssen added that the world’s largest motor yacht was one of the most complex and challenging yachts ever built, because of its dimensions and technology. Despite  Dilbar ’s volume, the designers did a masterful job making the yacht look relatively svelte, with no obvious bulges along the length of the light ivory and bronze-accented hull. In June 2020, Dilbar returned to Lürssen for a significant refit, the details of which are yet to be revealed.

4. ‘Dubai’ (531 feet, 5 inches), Platinum Yachts

Sheikh Al Maktoum’s yacht,  Dubai  Bigstock

This Andrew Winch design was originally commissioned for Prince Jefri Bolkiah of Brunei as a joint project between Blohm+Voss and Lürssen, before it was halted in 1998 with just a bare hull and skeletal superstructure. The hull was sold to the government of Dubai, and, under the direction of the country’s ruler, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, work on the 531.5-footer began again, though this time by Platinum Yachts.  Dubai  delivered in 2006 and is now the sheikh’s royal yacht, with accommodations for 24 guests and quarters for 88 crew. The seven-decked yacht has an impressive 70-foot-wide atrium, landing pad for a Black Hawk helicopter, submarine garage, disco, and cinema. Full certification was obtained from Lloyd’s Register in October 2006, and it can reach a top speed of 26 knots.

3. ‘Eclipse’ (533 feet, 1 inch), Blohm+Voss

Blohm+Voss’s  Eclipse  Photo: Shutterstock / R_Pilguj

Stately  Eclipse , the 533.1-foot yacht delivered to billionaire Roman Abramovich, took five years to design and build. When it left the Blohm+Voss shipyard in Hamburg in 2010, it was the world’s largest yacht. The interior has 17 staterooms and a palatial master suite, with the capacity to carry 85 crew. Both the interior and exterior are designed by Terence Disdale. A proportional profile is defined by tiered decks that sweep upward and bend ever so slightly at the aft ends.  Eclipse  has a 185-foot-long owner’s deck and, at the time of its launch, the largest swimming pool on any superyacht (the bottom raises and converts to a dance floor). Other features reflecting its stature: the capacity to hold three helicopters, including one in its belowdecks hangar, a sophisticated stabilization system, six tenders, and an enormous spa, gym, and beach club. Hybrid diesel-electric engines are connected to Azipod drives that give  Eclipse  a top-end speed of 21 knots, with a range of 6,000 nautical miles.

2. ‘Fulk Al Salamah’ (538 feet, 1 inch), Mariotti Yachts

Mariotti Yachts’  Fulk Al Salamah  Screengrab

Little information has ever been released about the world’s second-longest superyacht, custom-built  Fulk Al Salamah , and it has been shrouded in mystery since first announced in 2014. Even the overall length of 538.1 feet has been estimated from AIS data. However, built and delivered by Italian builder Mariotti Yachts in their Genoa shipyard in 2016, the imposing vessel is believed to be owned by the Omani royal family. Exterior design is by Studio de Jorio, and it is considered by some to resemble more of a support vessel than a superyacht. Nonetheless, aerial photography shows an impressively large helideck, raked masts and a bathing platform.

1: ‘Azzam’ (592 feet, 6 inches), Lürssen

Lürssen’s  Azzam  Screengrab

It’s not surprising that the world’s longest yacht hails from a shipyard with 13 out of the 25 top builds in the superyacht arena. Unfortunately,  Lürssen  could never really boast about  Azzam  after its launch in 2013 because of the owner’s penchant for privacy. Mubarak Saad al Ahbabi directed a team of designers and engineers who started with the bare concept, worked through the technical challenges of what might be the most complex superyacht ever, and finished with an unusually large vessel that can top the 30-knot mark. Nauta Yacht’s exterior features a long, sleek forward area, with well-proportioned tiers moving up to the skydeck. Lürssen describes the interior by Christophe Leoni as “sophisticated, with luxurious decor inspired by the Empire style of the early 19th century.” Its gas turbines, connected to water jets, push  Azzam  to more than 30 knots, giving it the ability to operate at high speed in shallow waters. She also boasts an impressive build time for a yacht of her size, with construction taking only three years after one year of engineering.  Azzam  was last refit in 2020 at MB92 in Barcelona.

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• Lurssen Yachts

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

Fulk Al Salamah

• Mariotti Yachts

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

• Blohm + Voss

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

• Platinum Yachts

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

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

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

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

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

Prince Abdulaziz

• Helsingor Vaerft

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

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

El Mahrousa

• Samuda Bros.

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

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

SAILING YACHT A

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

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

• ADMShipyards

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

• Lloyd Werft

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

Scheherezade

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

Ocean Victory

• Fincantieri Yachts

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

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

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

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Top 10 largest explorer yachts in the world

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

Solaris | 139.7m

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

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

More about this yacht

More stories, octopus | 126.18m.

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

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

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

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

Yachts for charter

Ulysses | 116.15m.

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

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

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

Luna | 115m

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

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

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

Le Grand Bleu | 112.8m

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

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

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

Andromeda | 107.40m

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

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

Tranquility | 91.5m

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

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

Voyager | 91.4m

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

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

Ice | 90.1m

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

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

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

Olivia O | 88.5m

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

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

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Largest Sailing Yachts in the World (with Price & Owners)

In this list of the largest sailing yachts in the world, you'll discover the top 20 remarkable ones, from the groundbreaking Sailing Yacht A at 469 feet to Jeff Bezos' massive Y721 (aka Koru) that spans 416 feet. The owners of these magnificent yachts are often influential figures in various industries, such as technology, finance, and real estate.

Sailing Yacht "A", the largest sailing yacht in the world, is owned by Russian billionaire Andrey Melnichenko, who also owns Mikhail S. Vorontsov and Hetairos. Other large sailing yachts are:

• Black Pearl
• Maltese Falcon
• Sea Eagle II

The yachting industry is bound to keep evolving and pushing the limits of what's possible. Who knows, maybe by 2024, the new Somnio "yacht-liner" might redefine our concept of luxury sailing altogether. For now, let's get to know more about these 20 sailing yachts, their prices, and their owners.

• Sailing Yacht "A", built in 2015, is worth $600 million. It can accommodate 20 guests and 54 crew members.
• The largest sailing yacht was designed by Philippe Starck and built by the German shipyard Nobiskrug.
• Andrey Melnichenko is a prominent figure in the worlds of business, yachting, and philanthropy.
• Top-notch industry players such as Oceanco, Lürssen, Royal Huisman, and Vitters Shipyard are known for their attention to detail and form-function balance, which could potentially increase the yacht's price.

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20 largest sailing yachts, the largest sailing yacht in the world, world's largest yacht is owned by....

Sailing Yacht A — 142.81M (468.6 Ft.)

You may have heard of Sailing Yacht A, a luxurious superyacht measuring 143 meters in length. Owned by Russian billionaire Andrey Melnichenko, this yacht is famous for its blend of modern design and cutting-edge technology. Its price is estimated to be around $500 million.

Sailing Yacht "A" is unique for its futuristic design, which includes a towering masts that are among the tallest in the world, a curved hull, and a striking all-black exterior. The yacht also features a state-of-the-art hybrid propulsion system that allows it to sail silently and efficiently under wind power, as well as a range of luxurious amenities such as a swimming pool, a helipad, and a spa.

Koru — 127M (416 Ft.)

Amazon founder Jeff Bezos owns the breathtaking Oceanco's record-breaking 127-meter sailing yacht, Koru. This sailing giant was built in the Netherlands in 2023.

Koru is unique for its custom design, which was created by the renowned naval architect Ron Holland and features a sleek and modern exterior with clean lines and a metallic silver finish. The yacht also features a range of luxurious amenities, including a beach club, a cinema, and a spa, as well as a hybrid propulsion system that allows for efficient and flexible sailing.

Sea Cloud — 109.5M (359 Ft.)

At 109.52 meters, the elegant Sea Cloud is a breathtaking four-masted sailing ship built in 1931. It operates primarily as a luxurious charter yacht, providing guests with a unique, unforgettable experience.

Sea Cloud is unique for its historic charm and elegance, having been built in 1931 as a private yacht for a wealthy American couple. The yacht has since been restored and converted into a luxury cruise ship, but still retains many of its original features, including a wooden deck, brass fittings, and period furnishings. Sea Cloud also offers a unique sailing experience, with guests able to help hoist the sails and steer the ship.

Black Pearl — 106.7M (350 Ft.)

The eco-friendly Black Pearl, measuring 106.7 meters in length, boasts state-of-the-art DynaRig technology and holds the title of the world's largest sailing yacht, at least, when it comes to sail area.

Black Pearl is unique for its advanced technology and cutting-edge design, including a revolutionary DynaRig sail system that allows for efficient and flexible sailing, as well as a hybrid propulsion system that can switch seamlessly between diesel and electric power. The yacht also features a range of luxurious amenities, including a beach club, a cinema, and a spa.

Eos — 93M (305 Ft.)

The stunning 92.92-meter sailing yacht Eos has a classic design and high-performance capabilities. Owned by American fashion designer Diane von Fürstenberg and American businessman Barry Diller, it is one of the largest private sailing yachts in the world.

Eos is unique for its size and spacious interior, which includes a range of luxurious amenities such as a full-size bar, a cinema, and a spa. The yacht also features a hybrid propulsion system that allows for efficient and flexible sailing, as well as a classic and elegant design with traditional features such as wooden decks and brass fittings.

Athena — 90M (295 Ft.)

Athena, an impressive 90-meter superyacht, includes five en-suite cabins, a gym, and a library. Built by Royal Huisman, this classic schooner combines luxury with deep sea exploration capabilities.

Athena is unique for its classic design and traditional sailing techniques, having been modeled after the famous J-class yachts of the 1930s. The yacht features a wooden hull, a towering mast, and a range of vintage features such as brass fittings and period furnishings. Athena also offers a range of luxurious amenities, including a swimming pool, a gym, and a library.

Maltese Falcon — 88M (289 Ft.)

You'll be amazed by the innovative Maltese Falcon, a 88-meter sailing yacht. It features a revolutionary DynaRig system and is owned by Greek socialite Elena Ambrosiadou.

Maltese Falcon is unique for its innovative DynaRig sail system, which allows for efficient and flexible sailing without the need for traditional sails and rigging. The yacht also features a range of luxurious amenities, including a beach club, a cinema, and a spa, as well as a unique interior design that combines modern and traditional elements.

Aquijo — 85.9M (282 Ft.)

The 85-meter superyacht Aquijo is the perfect example of elegance and high-performance on the water. With an impressive interior, it offers the ultimate sailing experience.

Aquijo is unique for its large size and spacious interior, which includes a main salon with a double-height ceiling, a full-size bar, and a dining area that can seat up to 20 guests. The yacht also features a range of luxurious amenities, including a beach club, a cinema, and a spa, as well as a unique hybrid propulsion system that allows for efficient and flexible sailing.

Sea Eagle II — 81M (266 Ft.)

The 81-meter Sea Eagle II, built by Royal Huisman, features a plumb bow, an exceptional sailing performance, and spacious interiors.

Sea Eagle II is unique for its classic design and traditional sailing techniques, having been modeled after the historic tall ships of the 19th century. The yacht features a wooden hull, a towering mast, and a range of vintage features such as brass fittings and period furnishings. Sea Eagle II also offers a range of luxurious amenities, including a beach club, a cinema, and a spa, as well as a spacious and comfortable interior with a classic and elegant design.

M5 — 78.4M (257.2 Ft.)

Owned by American businessman Rodney Lewis, the 75-meter M5 is a luxurious yacht built by Southern Ocean Marine with impressive sailing capabilities.

M5 is unique for its advanced sail system, which includes a set of high-tech carbon-fiber sails that can be adjusted automatically to optimize performance and efficiency. The yacht also features a range of luxurious amenities, including a beach club, a cinema, and a spa, as well as a sleek and modern interior design with clean lines and contemporary furnishings.

Enigma — 74.5M (244 Ft.)

Enigma, formerly known as Phocea, is a 75-meter sailing yacht known for her sleek profile and extraordinary speed capabilities.

Enigma is unique for its sleek and modern design, which includes a striking silver exterior and a minimalist interior with clean lines and contemporary furnishings. The yacht also features a range of luxurious amenities, including a beach club, a cinema, and a spa, as well as a hybrid propulsion system that allows for efficient and flexible sailing.

Badis I — 70M (230 Ft.)

Badis 1, a 70.8-meter sailing yacht, boasts a stunning aluminum hull, a powerful rig, and a luxurious interior accommodating up to 12 guests.

Badis I is unique for its classic design and traditional sailing techniques, having been modeled after the famous J-class yachts of the 1930s. The yacht features a wooden hull, a towering mast, and a range of vintage features such as brass fittings and period furnishings. Badis I also offers a range of luxurious amenities, including a beach club, a cinema, and a spa, as well as a spacious and comfortable interior with a classic and elegant design.

Vertigo — 67.2M (220 Ft.)

Famed for its contemporary design, Vertigo is a 67-meter sailing yacht built by Alloy Yachts. With impressive features and an award-winning interior, it's a dream come true for sailing enthusiasts.

Vertigo is unique for its striking and modern design, which includes a sleek and minimalist exterior and a spacious and comfortable interior with clean lines and contemporary furnishings. The yacht also features a range of luxurious amenities, including a beach club, a cinema, and a spa, as well as a hybrid propulsion system that allows for efficient and flexible sailing.

Hetairos — 66.7M (219 Ft.)

Hetairos, owned by a Russian billionaire, is a 66.7-meter high-performance sailing yacht. With an advanced composite hull, it promises excellent speed and luxurious amenities.

Hetairos is unique for its advanced composite construction, which makes it one of the fastest and most efficient sailing yachts in the world. The yacht also features a range of luxurious amenities, including a beach club, a cinema, and a spa, as well as a striking black and silver exterior design.

Adix — 65.5M (215 Ft.)

The 65.5-meter three-masted schooner Adix is a beautiful sailing yacht known for its timeless design and quality craftsmanship.

Adix is unique for its classic design and traditional sailing techniques, having been modeled after the historic tall ships of the 19th century. The yacht features a wooden hull, a towering mast, and a range of vintage features such as brass fittings and period furnishings. Adix also offers a range of luxurious amenities, including a beach club, a cinema, and a spa, as well as a spacious and comfortable interior with a classic and elegant design.

Mikhail S. Vorontsov — 63.4M (208 Ft.)

The Mikhail S. Vorontsov is a 64.5-meter sailing yacht with a completely wooden hull, offering a classic and captivating charm.

Mikhail S. Vorontsov is unique for its opulent and extravagant design, which includes a range of luxurious features such as a grand staircase, a full-size ballroom, and a range of ornate decorations and furnishings. The yacht also features a range of modern amenities, including a beach club, a cinema, and a spa, as well as a hybrid propulsion system that allows for efficient and flexible sailing.

Perseus^3 — 60M (197 Ft.)

The high-performance sailing yacht Perseus^3, measuring 60 meters in length, includes a carbon-fiber mast, a powerful regatta rig, and cutting-edge features for the ultimate sailing experience.

Perseus^3 is unique for its advanced sail system, which includes a set of high-tech carbon-fiber sails that can be adjusted automatically to optimize performance and efficiency. The yacht also features a range of luxurious amenities, including a beach club, a cinema, and a spa, as well as a sleek and modern interior design.

Ngoni — 58M (190 Ft.)

Ngoni, a stunning 58-meter sailing yacht built by Royal Huisman, is known for its innovative design and advanced sailing technology.

Ngoni is unique for its unconventional design, which includes a striking black and gold exterior and a minimalist interior with clean lines and contemporary furnishings. The yacht also features a range of luxurious amenities, including a beach club, a cinema, and a spa, as well as a hybrid propulsion system that allows for efficient and flexible sailing.

Twizzle — 57.5M (188 Ft.)

Last but not least, the 57.5-meter sailing yacht Twizzle offers exceptional sailing performance paired with timeless elegance, making for a luxurious experience on the water.

Twizzle is unique for its spacious and comfortable interior, which includes a range of luxurious amenities such as a full-size bar, a cinema, and a spa. The yacht also features a hybrid propulsion system that allows for efficient and flexible sailing, as well as a sleek and modern design with clean lines and contemporary furnishings.

Fleurtje — 57.4M (188 Ft.)

Fleurtje is a classic sailing yacht that was built in 1961 by the Dutch shipyard De Vries Lentsch. The yacht underwent a major refit in 1993, which included the installation of a new engine, a new mast, and a range of modern amenities.

Fleurtje features a classic design with a wooden hull and a traditional rig, which gives it a timeless and elegant appearance. The yacht also features a spacious and comfortable interior with a range of luxurious amenities, including a full-size bar, a cinema, and a spa. It is also known for its impressive sailing performance, with a top speed of 12 knots under sail and a range of advanced technologies that allow for efficient and flexible sailing.

Is Sailing Yacht "A", which is 143 meters long, 24.88 meters wide, has a draft of 8 meters, and weighs 1428 tons. It can accommodate 20 guests, and has 54 crew members.

The crew sizes, and operating costs of these yachts can vary widely depending on a number of factors, including the size and complexity of the yacht, the level of luxury and amenities onboard, and the location and frequency of use.

Russian billionaire Andrey Melnichenko. Melnichenko is known for his extravagant lifestyle and his love of luxury yachts. He is the owner of the largest and iconic Sailing Yacht "A", which is considered one of the most expensive and technologically advanced yachts ever built. He is also the owner of the motor yacht "A", which was built by the same shipyard as Sailing Yacht "A" and features a similarly striking design.

Melnichenko was born on March 8, 1972, in Gomel, Belarus. In addition to his business and yachting interests, Melnichenko is also a philanthropist who supports a range of charitable causes through his Andrey & Aleksandra Melnichenko Foundation. The foundation focuses on supporting education, science, and culture, and has provided funding for a range of projects in Russia and around the world.

Melnichenko is one of the wealthiest people in Russia, with a net worth of over $18 billion, according to Forbes. He made his fortune in the energy and chemical industries, having founded the fertilizer producer EuroChem and the coal producer SUEK. He is also a major shareholder in the power company Siberian Generating Company and the pipe producer TMK.

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Top 10 Largest Yachts In The World 2021

Discover the world’s biggest superyachts..

Breaking records is cool. Especially when it has to do with building the biggest, longest, tallest, largest superyachts in the world. Technically speaking, each of those superlatives has its own category when it comes to shipbuilding. Number 2 on this list is *technically* bigger than number 1, which is longer. And one of the yachts on this list holds the title of oldest while also being one of the largest. It gets confusing, but when you’re building boats for people who want to break records, it matters.

Think you’ve seen a big superyacht? Think again. Here are the 10 largest yachts in the world for 2021. When yachts get this big, it can be difficult to discern a cruise ship from a superyacht.

10. SAILING YACHT A | 142 Meter (468 Foot) Nobiskrug 2017

Zoom into the future — SAILING YACHT A is the largest private sail-assisted motor yacht in the world. At 468 feet and built by Nobiskrug in 2017. She’s an advanced superyacht with unique features such as an underwater observation pod, a hybrid diesel-electric propulsion system, and state-of-the-art navigation systems.

The luxury sailing yacht’s three masts are the tallest and the most highly loaded freestanding composite structures in the world. The nearly invisible windows give this yacht a futuristic look offering no peep into the interior, which is still a mystery. SAILING YACHT A is owned by Russian billionaire Andrey Melnichenko.

9. EL MAHROUSA | 145 Meter (478 Foot) Samuda Brothers 1865

Fresh out of the history and record books is EL MAHROUSA, a 478-foot Samuda Brothers yacht launched in 1865 (erm, yeah you read that right). This yacht was built for the Ottoman governor of Egypt and even made an appearance at the opening of the Suez Canal in 1869 (thankfully it never got stuck in the canal).

Of course, she underwent plenty of refits over the years, including the replacement of its paddle wheel engines by turbine-driven propellers in 1905. It also had a telegraph installed in 1912. EL MAHROUSA was also lengthened by 40 feet in 1872 and another 17 feet in 1905. The yacht is currently in the care of the Egyptian Navy and occasionally used as the Presidential Yacht. It is the oldest active superyacht in the world and the ninth largest one.

8. PRINCE ABDULAZIZ | 147 Meter (482 Foot) Helsingor Vaerft 1984

PRINCE ABDULAZIZ is a 147- meter motor yacht built by Helsingor Vaerft and delivered in 1984. For many years, it was the world’s largest yacht in terms of length and height. It’s one of the royal yachts of the Saudi royal family, originally owned by King Fahd. Although its interior was designed by the late David Nightingale Hicks, you’re not going to find any pictures of it. All we know is that it’s as luxurious as the TITANIC.

7. A+ | 147 Meter (482 Foot) Lürssen 2012

The seventh-largest yacht in the world is A+ (formally known as TOPAZ) at 147 meters long. With her gross tonnage of 12,532 GT, A+ is also one of the world’s largest superyachts in terms of volume. This 2012 Lürssen superyacht is reportedly owned by Sheikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, owner of Manchester City Football Club and Emirate royalty.

This 8 deck vessel features 2 helipads, a gym, 2 Jacuzzis, a movie theatre, and a conference room. While not much is revealed about the Terence Disdale styled interior, A+ can accommodate up to 62 guests in 26 cabins, along with 79 crew members.

6. AL SAID | 155 Meter (508 Foot) Lürrsen 2007

At 509 feet long, AL SAID is the sixth-largest superyacht in the world. It was launched by Lürssen in 2007 and resembles a classic cruise liner. At its widest point, the ship measures nearly 79 feet across. It is owned by the Sultan of Oman and can supposedly accommodate 70 guests and up to 154 professional crewmembers. The vessel features 6 decks and a concert hall big enough for a 50 piece orchestra.

5. DILBAR | 156 Meter (511 Foot) Lürrsen 2016

DILBAR is a 156-meter superyacht built by Lürssen in 2016. Her exterior was designed by Espen Øino, who created a classic profile with a light ivory hull. Her interior design is said to be decorated in rare and exclusive luxury materials by Winch Design, but additional details and photos are not made public.

At 15,917 tons and 156-meters long, Lürssen announced that DILBAR is one of the most complex and challenging yachts ever built, in terms of dimensions and technology. Her features include a 25-meter swimming pool (the largest ever installed on a yacht) and 2 helipads. It’s owned by one of Russia’s richest men , Alisher Usmanov.

4. DUBAI | 162 Meter (532 Foot) Platinum Yachts 2006

Make room for DUBAI , a 161-meter yacht with a nonlinear build history. This superyacht was originally a joint project between Blohm+Voss and Lürssen in 1998. But the project was halted with a skeletal superstructure.

The hull was sold to the government of Dubai, and the project began again under the direction of the new owner, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum (ruler of Dubai), and Platinum Yachts. The yacht was finished in 2006. Some of its stand-out features include 7 decks, helipad, submarine garage, nightclub, cinema, and 70-foot-wide atrium. DUBAI can accommodate 24 guests.

3. ECLIPSE | 162 Meter (531 Foot) Blohm+Voss 2010

By the time it left the Blohm+Voss German shipyard in 2010, ECLIPSE was the largest superyacht in the world. Today, it’s been knocked down a few pegs at 162 meters in length. It’s owned by Russian businessman, Roman Abramovich. ECLIPSE boasts 18 staterooms and can accommodate 36 guests.

At the time of its launch, it hosted the largest swimming pool (with adjustable depth to become a dance floor) onboard a yacht at 16 meters long. This luxury yacht has interesting features including a missile detection system (you know, just in case), bulletproof windows (again, just in case), a submarine, three helicopters, six tenders, spa, gym, and beach club. It’s currently valued at $1.2 billion and considered the world’s most expensive yacht .

2. FULK AL SALAMAH | 164 Meter (538 Foot) Mariotti 2016

FULK AL SALAMAH , translated to Ship of Peace, is a 164-meter Mariotti mega yacht built in 2016. This monster of a yacht is believed to be owned by the Omani royal family. Although, not the longest yacht, she is the biggest in terms of volume at 22,000 gross tonnage. The exterior design is by Studio de Jorio and resembles more of a cruise ship than a private superyacht. Not many details are revealed about FULK AL SALAMAH as this project and delivery has been kept under wraps from its beginning.

1. AZZAM | 180 Meter (590 Foot) Lürssen 2013

At a whopping 180 meters in length, AZZAM is the longest private yacht in the world. This superyacht was launched in 2013 by Lürssen Yachts, and currently owned by Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Abu Dhabi. It cost more than $600 million to build.

AZZAM has a beam of 20.8 meters (68 feet) and an unusually shallow draft of 4.3 meters (14 feet). Exterior designer, Nauta Design created this vessel to be sleek and timeless while appearing smaller than her size. The 9,000kW MTU engines give her a speed of 18 knots over long distances, with a top speed of 33 knots.

As the longest private yacht in the world, AZZAM can accommodate 36 guests and up to 80 crew. The interior style is largely a secret, but it’s rumored that some of the wood furniture onboard is intricately veneered with mother of pearl marquetry. Other onboard features include a gym, pool, and golf training room.

While these top 10 largest yachts in the world may seem out of reach, let’s bring it down to earth and explore Denison’s featured listings . You’ll find yachts from 10 feet to 174 feet , all different brands, models, lengths, heights, volume, age… you get the point. Contact a Denison yacht broker to find your perfectly sized yacht.

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20 Largest Explorer Yachts in the World

By Alex Holmes

Updated on January 3, 2023

Humans have always been curious to find out what’s behind that mountain range, how’s the view from the top, what new and exciting places lie beyond that next forest, that next road, that open sea. Beyond the horizon.

We’ve always been discoverers longing to go onto our next adventure. And since our planet is mostly explored on land and space is a little bit too far away, the only thing with plenty of mysteries left to uncover is the ocean.

And to explore oceans, nothing is more suited than an explorer yacht.

Fully equipped to take on adventures to some of the most remote places on Earth, and large enough to house an impressive range of toys and plenty of storage space for all that’s needed for a few weeks away at sea, these yachts will tickle that desire to leave everything behind and go chasing that blue horizon.

For those for whom cruises are a waste of time, these 20 largest explorer yachts in the world will make a lot more sense:

• 20. Sea Ranger – 255’1″ (77.73m)

The 255 feet Sea Ranger was built in 1973 in Germany as an ice class tug and converted in 1994 by Malta Drydock Company into a luxury yacht for Jackie Setton, a French entrepreneur.

It received its current name in 2013 when it was auctioned and changed ownership. The vessel has an unbelievable range of 31,000 nautical miles, and has already seen most of the world, including both the Arctic and the Antarctic.

• 19. Bart Roberts – 265′ (80.77m)

An ice class vessel built in 1963 by Canadian Vickers for the Canadian Coastguard, Bart Roberts was formerly called Narwhal. It got its new name – one belonging to a notorious pirate – back in 2002, when it was sold to a Florida businessman Arnie Gemino, who converted the ship into a charter yacht through his company, Tradepower International.

The refitted ship now comes with a new and luxurious interior with a pirate theme, plus all sorts of water toys, but it has a new owner, who keeps it for private use.

• 18. Pacific – 279’6″ (85.2m)

Launched in 2010 by Lürssen, the Pacific, formerly named Project Josi, is an 85.2 meter explorer yacht with an intriguing exterior designed by German Frers, an iconic Argentinian naval architect well known for projecting some of the largest sailing yachts in the world. The interior was made by Bannenberg & Rowell Design.

The yacht is large enough for carrying two helicopters, and apparently it has been already spotted navigating all over the world.

• 17. Bold – 279’8″ (85.3m)

A 2019 creation of Silver Yachts, Bold was a collaboration between exterior designer Espen Øino and interior designer firm Vain Interiors. The result is a 279 feet, or 85.3 meter long explorer yacht with no less than 300 square meter of usable surface inside, plus an impressive and luxurious interior that resembles more a New York loft than a yacht.

Bold can accommodate up to 16 guests in its eight staterooms situated on the main deck. In total it can carry up to 96 passengers while cruising. It also features two helipads, two Rupert Marine tenders, and comes with a total range of 5,500 nautical miles before needing to resupply.

• 16. OceanXplorer 1 – 285’7″ (87.1m)

OceanXplorer 1 is one of, if not the most advanced research vessel in the world right now. The 285 feet, or 87 meter, ship was built in 2010 by Freire Shipyard and equipped to both be able to explore the underwater world and also transmit its findings through various digital outlets, including social media and a TV show.

The research part of the vessel will benefit from two custom made Triton manned submarines able to dive down to 1,000 meters, plus an ROV and an Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) that has the capability to dive as deep as 6,000 meters below sea level.

• 15. Arctic P – 287’4″ (87.6m)

Built by Schichau Unterweser in 1969, the 87.6 meter Arctic P is a deep sea ice-breaking salvage tug that fulfilled its purpose until 1993, when she was sold to a company called Magenta Investment. From then on, it was taken to Malta Shipyards and converted into a superyacht, now called Arctic Research.

The exterior was designed by Kusch Yachts, and Schichau Unterweser, the original builder, remade the naval architecture. The interior was refitted between 2019 and 2020, now able to accommodate 12 guests in seven staterooms, one of which is an astonishing 90 square meter master suite.

• 14. Olivia O – 290’3″ (88.5m)

The grandiose 290’3″ feet (88.5m) Olivia O was put to sea in 2020 and she already started a cruise in the Mediterranean. The ship was built by the Norwegian yard Ulstein Verft, and uses an X-Bow hull shape that gives it the ability to withstand any kind of weather conditions.

Espen Øino was the exterior designer, and he included a helipad, a 10 meter pool, and a full beam tender garage among the vessel’s most important features.

• 13. Ice – 295’6″ (90.1m)

Belonging to Suleiman Kerimov, Ice is one of the most iconic and impressive yachts that roams the planet’s oceans. Amazingly stylish and with an imposing construction, the 90.1 meter explorer yacht was built in 2005 by German yard Lürssen.

The performance of this yacht is no less than impressive, since it’s incredibly quiet and vibration free, a feat achieved through the use of two Azipod units powered by eight Deutz engines. Top speed is 18.6 knots and range reaches 6,000 nautical miles.

Among the features, it counts various water toys and sailing dinghies, plus a helicopter landing pad made specifically for the Eurocopter EC 135 helicopter.

• 12. Voyager – 299’8″ (91.4m)

The 91.4 meter long Voyager was built back in 1997 by the Swiftships yard in the United States, and by 2020 it had already travelled over 27,000 nautical miles, exploring some of the most far-flung places on Earth, including Antarctica, South Africa, and Madagascar.

But Voyager wasn’t always an explorer yacht. It was converted into one in 2019, and was a supply ship before starting the three year conversion. It was initially named Candy Trader and had a length of only 63 meters, was renamed in 2003 as HOS Trader, and now is the beauty called Voyager, with five luxurious decks and a crew of 70.

• 11. Tranquility – 300’2″ (91.5m)

Originally called Equanimity, the 91.5 meter explorer yacht was the first ever to be built to PYC standard. It was launched in 2014 by the Dutch yard Oceanco.

On board, it features five decks with premium accommodation, spa and wellness area, swimming pool, tender garage with two 10.5 meter Hodgson tenders, and also a foredeck helicopter landing pad. Among the water toys, there’s Jet skis, Wave Runners, SeaBobs and an electric surfboard. How’s that for a fun yacht?

• 10. Icecap – 351′ (107m)

The 107 meter, or 351 feet, Icecap explorer superyacht will be launched next year, in 2023. Designed by Norwegians at Salt Ship Design and built to ice class spec, the vessel will be well fit to do some off the beaten path exploring, able to reach some of the most remote corners of our world.

Among the features, there’s a sunken helicopter hangar, and a helipad. So far, not much is known, and she was first seen earlier this year when she was uncovered.

• 9. Andromeda – 352’3″ (107.4m)

Formerly known as Ulysses, the 107 meter Andromeda was built in 2016 in Norway, by Kleven Verft, for Graeme Hart, New Zealand’s richest man. The new owner of the ship is apparently Mark Zuckerberg, the founder of Facebook.

Andromeda is built to withstand all weather conditions, and comes equipped with all sorts of toys for exploring distant lands. Among them, there’s six motorcycles, two ATVs, a Sealegs amphibious RIB, a twin hull support boat capable of a max speed of 50 knots, helicopter, and a full-on landing craft.

• 8. Freire 112m Explorer – 366’9″ (111.8m)

The Freire 112m Explorer, built by Spain’s Freire Shipyard, is an explorer superyacht that boasts amazing interiors, and a tough looking exterior. The ship’s exterior was designed by Marin Teknikk and British studio Bannenberg & Rowell Design.

The interior of the yacht was designed by the British studio alone. The vessel was launched in the summer of 2021, and spent the time getting ready for its delivery in 2022.

• 7. Le Grand Bleu – 370′ (112.8m)

Le Grand Bleu was launched in 2000, after being built by the German shipyard Bremer Vulkan. Powered by two Deutz engines, it’s capable of reaching a top speed of 17 knots.

It was initially owned by John McCaw, a US telecommunications tycoon, and was then sold to Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich, who had it refitted to his own desires. The ship changed ownership again, and is now reportedly owned by Eugene Shvidler, a friend and business associate of Abramovich.

• 6. Luna – 377’3″ (115m)

Delivered in 2010 by German yard Lloyd Werft, the 115 meter ice class yacht Luna was built for the Russian businessman Roman Abramovich. The vessel boasted the largest swimming pool ever installed on a yacht at launch.

In 2014, Luna was purchased by Farkhad Akhmedov from Abramovich, and followed a 14 month and €50 million refit in Germany. The modernized yacht features two helipads on the upper deck, two tender garages, gym, beach club, spa, steam bath, plunge pool, and sauna.

• 5. Ulysses – 380’9″ (116.1m)

Following its predecessor, the 107 meter Andromeda (formerly called Ulysses), the current Ulysses was launched in 2018, and measures 116.1 meters, 10 meters longer than its precursor.

It was built by Norwegian yard Kleven for the same owner who commissioned the first Ulysses, and brings on board a Bell 429 helicopter, and several high speed tenders. Its 18 meter beam can house up to 66 guests.

• 4. J7 Explorer – 393’7″ (120m)

The J7 Explorer was launched this year in Indonesia, by the PT Bahtera Bahari Shipyard. The 120 meter (393’7″) ship boasts a military style exterior, with a large, open aft deck that characterizes most explorer superyachts today.

There’s little else known about the vessel, so the owner or the purpose are both unknown. What is clear is that it’s the first ever superyacht built by the shipyard, which so far only built tankers, diving vessels, tug boats, commercial vessels, and landing crafts.

• 3. Octopus – 414′ (126.2m)

The 414 feet Octopus was built in 2003 by Lürssen in Germany for one of Microsoft’s founders, Paul Allen. The vessel is already famous worldwide, sitting among the top 3 largest explore yachts, with a capacity for two helicopters, and plenty of water toys, including a 20 meter submarine and a similar size tender.

One of the missions Octopus was involved in was an eight year search for a sunken ship, the Japanese ship Musashi, which was sunk during the Second World War. The wreck was discovered in 2015 by Paul Allen and Octopus’s crew.

Octopus was reportedly sold for an unbelievable €235,000,000 in 2021.

• 2. Solaris – 458’3″ (139.7m)

Launched in 2021, the 139 meter Solaris made world fame for its incredible length. The vessel was built by the same German yard Lloyd Werft who built the 115 meter Luna.

Solaris boasts no less than eight decks, with an interior designed by Australian Marc Newson. When it comes to features, not much is known, but existing pictures show at least a large helicopter landing pad, sun deck and a huge beach club aft.

The Solaris is currently the largest explorer yacht in the world.

• 1. REV Ocean – 600′ (182.9m)

The REV Ocean is a project by VARD Group AS that was supposed to leave for its first research voyage last year, in 2021. The 182.9 meter (600′) long ship would have dethroned Solaris by 40 meters if it wasn’t for a delay of its launch.

The next launch date was scheduled sometime in 2024. The yacht will provide accommodation for up to 55 scientists and 35 crew for a research and exploration trip, or 36 passengers and 54 crew for a luxury voyage.

The delay seems to be related to technical issues relating to the ship’s weight.

It’s said that the difference between boys and men is only the size of their toys, and explorer yachts seem to prove that.

These are some of the best vessels for exploring our oceans and seas, able to reach the farthest and most remote corners of our planet, and providing an impressive array of options for exploring the world under the surface.

About Alex Holmes

With over 10 years of experience in media and publishing, Alex is Luxatic's director of content, overlooking everything related to reviews, special features, buying guides, news briefs and pretty much all the other content that can be found on our website. Learn more about Luxatic's Editorial Process .

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10 Largest Yachts In The World | 2023 Updated

In a world where constant change and innovation are needed to stay ahead of the curve, remaining static is not an option. Shipyards worldwide are pushing the limits to get an edge over their rivals and build the best yachts, each bigger and more luxurious than the last.

Each yacht on this list is a masterpiece of design and engineering. Continue reading the article to explore the ten largest yachts in the world as of 2023.

1. Sailing Yacht A

Length: 143 m Launch: 2017 Owner: Andrey Melnichenko

Sailing Boat A is the biggest private sail-assisted motor yacht in the world. She is a cutting-edge superyacht with unique features like an underwater observation pod, a hybrid diesel-electric propulsion system, and advanced navigational equipment.

It has a top speed of 21 knots and a keel-mounted underwater observation platform. This ship has 54 crew members and can accommodate as many guests as possible. The almost invisible windows give this yacht a futuristic appearance while keeping the interior, which is still a mystery, hidden from view. Andrey Melnichenko, a millionaire from Russia, is the owner of Sailing Yacht A.

2. El Mahrousa

Length: 145.72 m Launch: 1865 Owner: Egyptian Navy

The 145-meter Samuda Brother’s yacht El Mahrousa, launched in 1865, was recently discovered in history and records. This boat was made for the Ottoman governor of Egypt. It showed up at the opening of the Suez Canal in 1869.

She underwent many changes, like switching from paddle-wheel motors to turbine-driven propellers in 1905. In 1912, a telegraph was additionally installed on the yacht. El Mahrousa was also extended by 40 feet in 1872 and another 17 feet in 1905. This boat can go as fast as 16 knots, and the Egyptian Navy is in charge of it now. It is sometimes used as the president’s yacht.

3. Prince Abdulaziz

Length: 147 m Launch: 1984 Owner: Royal Family Of Saudi Arabia

Helsingor Vaerft constructed the 147-meter motor yacht Prince Abdulaziz in 1984. It held the record for the largest vessel in the world for a long time in both length and height. This yacht was initially made for the late King Fahd of Saudi Arabia. Abdullah, the brother of the late King Fahd, now owns it.

There are no photos of its interior, even though the late David Nightingale Hicks created it. We only know that it is as luxurious as the Titanic. However, this ship has a crew capacity of 60 people and is capable of 22 knots of speed. It can fit the same number of guests who can use the indoor pool and other facilities. The ship features a helipad on the deck.

4. A+ Yacht

Length: 147 m Launch: 2012 Owner: Sheikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan

A+, formerly known as TOPAZ, is the seventh-largest yacht in the world, measuring 147 meters in length. A+ is also one of the largest superyachts in the world in terms of volume, with a gross tonnage of 12,532 GT. Sheikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the owner of Manchester City Football Club and a member of Emirate royalty, is said to be the owner of this 2012 Lürssen superyacht.

The superstructure and hull of the yacht A+ are both made of aluminum. Her six Wärtsilä engines enable her to reach a top speed of 19.5 knots. It has eight decks, two helipads, a gym, two Jacuzzis, a conference room, and a theater. The A+ can carry 79 crew members and up to 62 passengers in 26 cabins.

Length: 155 m Launch: 2008 Owner: Sultan Qaboos (Sultan of Oman)

The sixth-largest superyacht in the world, Al Said, is 155 meters in length and was launched by Lürssen in 2007. The Omani royal family owns and uses this yacht. Two MTU engines power Al Said, which has a cruising speed of 20 knots and can reach a top speed of 22 knots.

Aluminum makes up the superstructure, while steel makes up the hull of the yacht Al Said. It has six decks, and the performance hall can accommodate a 50-piece orchestra. This yacht has space for up to 154 trained crew members and 70 guests.

Length: 156 m Launch: 2016 Owner: Alisher Usmanov

Lürssen created a 156-meter superyacht named DILBAR in 2016. Espen Ino gave her a traditional shape and a light ivory hull when he designed her outside. Lürssen says that DILBAR, which is 156 meters long and weighs 15,917 tons , is one of the biggest and most technologically advanced yachts ever built.

Dilbar has a speed of 22.5 knots due to technological advancements and a 30,000-kilowatt diesel-electric power plant. She has two places for helicopters to land and a 25-meter-long swimming pool, the largest one ever built on a yacht. Dilbar is owned by Russia’s richest businessman, Alisher Usmanov.

Length: 162 m Launch: 2006 Owner: Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum

Make room for the 162-meter yacht Dubai, which had a nonlinear construction history. Blohm+Voss and Lürssen first collaborated on this superyacht in 1998. However, with only a skeletal structure, the project was halted.

The project was restarted under the supervision of the new owner, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum (the ruler of Dubai), and Platinum Yachts. In 2006, the yacht was completed. Four MTU diesel engines give her a top speed of 26.0 knots and a cruising speed of 22.0.

She can carry 48 passengers in 22 cabins. She weighs 12488.0 GT gross and has a beam length of 22.0 m. It has seven decks, a helipad, a garage for submarines, a nightclub, a movie theater, and an atrium.

Length: 162.5 m Launch: 2009 Owner: Roman Abramovich

The Eclipse was the largest yacht in the world when Roman Abramovich, the owner of Chelsea Football Club, received it from the construction company in 2010. Terence Disdale Design was in charge of all the interior design, deck layout, and design and construction of the ship’s superstructure.

They made custom interior finishes for the Eclipse. The hull and superstructure of the Eclipse are made of steel and aluminum. She is propelled by four MTU engines, which allow her to reach a top speed of 25.0 knots and a cruising speed of 22.0 knots.

There are 24 guest cabins on board, interior swimming pools and hot tubs, a disco, a gym, a spa, and a working submarine. Eclipse has won many awards, including “Motor Yacht of the Decade” at the 2015 World Superyacht Awards.

9. Fulk Al Salamah

Length : 164 m Launch : 2016 Owner : Omani Royal Family

The mega yacht Fulk Al Salamah, also called the “Ship of Peace,” was constructed by Mariotti in 2016. The Omani royal family is thought to be the owner of this magnificent yacht. Despite not being the longest yacht, she has the most capacity at 22,000 gross tons.

It has a beam of 24.0 m and a draught of 9.3 m. Studio de Jorio created the exterior design, which is less like a private superyacht and more like a cruise ship . Steel makes up the hull, whereas steel and aluminum make up the superstructure of the yacht Fulk Al Salamah. Four Wärtsilä engines propel her.

Length : 180 Meters Owner : Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Launch : 2013

Azzam is the world’s largest private yacht. This superyacht was built by Lürssen Yachts in 2013 and is now owned by Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE and Ruler of Abu Dhabi. It cost more than $600 million to build.

Azzam has a beam of 20.8 meters (68 feet) and a draft of 4.3 meters, which is unusually shallow (14 feet). The outside of this ship was made by Nauta Design to look sleek and timeless while making it look smaller than it is. The 9,000 kW MTU engines give her a long-distance speed of 18 knots and a top speed of 33 knots.

It can hold up to 80 crew members and 36 guests. Most of the interior design is a mystery, but some wood furniture is said to have beautiful mother-of-pearl marquetry on the surface. A gym, pool, and golf training area are also available inside the yacht.

Many people’s top wish lists would include a yacht if they had the money to buy one. Millionaires and billionaires often own yachts to show off how much money they have. In their minds, the bigger the yacht, the better. Entertainment firms also use superyachts to attract wealthy passengers looking for a rich experience.

These features frequently increase their owners’ enjoyment and sense of luxury. But yachts, which are very valuable from an economic and social point of view, can help create jobs and boost the economies of travel destinations while giving people a unique way to spend their free time.As of 2023, the Azzam holds the record for being the longest yacht in the world.

Out of these 10 largest yachts in the world, let us know which one you find fascinating!

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Top 20 Largest Yachts in the World 2024

• Top 20 Largest Yachts in…

Miami is a popular destination for yacht enthusiasts and those looking for a luxurious maritime experience. Known for its elegance and extravagance, Miami is the epitome of high-end sailing. As we step into 2024, the world of yachting unveils its most colossal gems—showcasing vessels that redefine luxury and scale. If you’re in the market for the grandest statement on the high seas or merely an enthusiast yearning to get a glimpse into the world of extravagance, this list is tailored for you. Join us as we navigate the azure expanses and reveal the biggest yachts in the world in 2024.

10 Largest Yachts Around the Globe

1. azzam – 179.70 meters.

Topping the charts and reigning supreme as the longest yacht on our list is the majestic AZZAM. Stretching an astonishing 179.70 meters, this vessel is not merely a yacht. It’s a floating palace. Commissioned by the royal family of Abu Dhabi, AZZAM is a testament to the fusion of engineering marvel and opulent design. With a top speed of over 30 knots, this superyacht is not just about luxury—it’s about making a grand entrance.

2. FULK AL SALAMAH– 164.0 METERS

The second biggest yacht in the world in 2024 is FULK AL SALAMAH, a vessel that epitomizes sophistication. At 164 meters, this yacht is a private haven for its owner, offering a retreat into the lap of luxury. While only a little is known about the interiors, the exterior design is a spectacle. FULK AL SALAMAH is a beacon of refined taste for those who appreciate exclusivity and allure.

3. ECLIPSE – 162.5 METERS

ECLIPSE, the third on our list, is not just a yacht. It’s a floating fortress. Measuring an impressive 162.5 meters, this vessel boasts features that redefine extravagance. Owned by Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich, ECLIPSE has a missile detection system, bulletproof windows, and a stunningly lavish interior. For those who seek security without compromising on luxury, ECLIPSE stands tall as a symbol of opulent refuge.

4. DUBAI – 162 METERS

Named after its home city, the DUBAI yacht is a marvel of design and engineering. At 162 meters, it offers an array of amenities that redefine what it means to live on the water. DUBAI is a floating paradise with its lavish interiors, helipad, and swimming pool that seems to stretch into the horizon. Whether cruising through the Mediterranean or anchored off the coast of Miami, this 4th biggest yacht in the world in 2024 is a symbol of elegance and sophistication.

5. BLUE – 160 METERS

Sailing into the fifth spot is the appropriately named BLUE. At 160 meters, this yacht is a canvas of azure luxury. Owned by Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the deputy prime minister of the UAE, BLUE is a statement of refined taste and unparalleled elegance. Its sleek design and state-of-the-art features capture the essence of modern yachting at its finest.

6. DILBAR – 156 METERS

DILBAR, the sixth on our list, is a floating masterpiece that spans 156 meters. Owned by Russian billionaire Alisher Usmanov, this yacht is a marvel of engineering, featuring one of the largest swimming pools ever installed on a superyacht. With its striking exterior and opulent interiors designed by Andrew Winch, DILBAR is a beacon of luxury and a testament to the limitless possibilities of maritime indulgence.

7. AL SAID – 155 METERS

AL SAID, at 155 meters, is a symphony of design and functionality. Commissioned by Sultan Qaboos bin Said Al Said of Oman, this yacht is a floating palace that exudes regality. Its majestic exterior is complemented by a lavish interior that reflects the owner’s commitment to the finer things in life. For those seeking a yacht that seamlessly combines luxury with cultural richness, AL SAID embodies Arabian opulence.

8. A+ (FORMERLY TOPAZ) – 147.25 METERS

Formerly known as TOPAZ, A+ secures the eighth position as the biggest yacht in the world in 2024 at 147.25 meters. This vessel is a tribute to contemporary design, featuring a sleek exterior that turns heads wherever it goes. A+ offers many amenities, including a cinema, a swimming pool, and a helipad, making it an ideal choice for those who desire a perfect blend of style and substance.

9. PRINCE ABDULAZIZ – 147 METERS

PRINCE ABDULAZIZ, at 147 meters, is a testament to timeless elegance. Commissioned by the royal family of Saudi Arabia, this yacht has been a symbol of luxury since its launch in 1984. With its classic design and opulent interiors, PRINCE ABDULAZIZ is a nod to the traditional values of yachting, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate the grace of a bygone era.

10. OPERA – 146.4 METERS

Closing our list is the enchanting OPERA, measuring 146.4 meters. This yacht is a masterpiece of design, featuring an exterior that reflects a harmonious blend of modernity and classic elegance. Owned by Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich, OPERA offers a sanctuary at sea with its luxurious interiors and cutting-edge amenities. For those who seek a yacht that transcends trends and stands as a timeless symbol of maritime luxury, OPERA is a captivating choice.

Top 10 Biggest Yachts In The World Under Construction

1. rev ocean | 194.4m.

The colossal REV Ocean, a maritime titan stretching an impressive 194.4 meters, is topping our list. Set to be the world’s largest yacht upon completion, REV Ocean is not merely a vessel; it’s a floating testament to environmental consciousness. Designed to accommodate scientific research and exploration, this yacht is a beacon for those who appreciate luxury intertwined with a commitment to ocean preservation. The future owner of REV Ocean will command the seas and contribute to the greater good.

2. Luminance | 145m

Luminance, the second on our list, is a symphony of elegance and innovation. Anticipated to measure 145 meters upon completion, this yacht is designed by the renowned Italian studio Zuccon International Project. It is set to offer a unique blend of contemporary design and cutting-edge technology. For those seeking a yacht that seamlessly marries style with functionality, Luminance promises to be a radiant choice.

3. Project Ali Baba | 142m

With its intriguing name and awe-inspiring dimensions of 142 meters, Project Ali Baba will secure the third spot among the biggest yachts in the world in 2024. Little is known about this project’s details, adding an air of mystery and anticipation. We know that Project Ali Baba is poised to redefine luxury on the high seas, offering its owner an exclusive retreat into the lap of maritime opulence.

4. Project Deep Blue | 130m

As we delve deeper into the future of yachting, Project Deep Blue emerges as the fourth on our list, boasting an impressive length of 130 meters. This project is a collaboration between the iconic design firm Nuvolari Lenard and Oceanco, a name synonymous with superyacht excellence. With its sleek lines and expansive deck spaces, Project Deep Blue promises to be a vessel that turns heads and sets new standards for sophistication.

5. Amels 120 Full Custom | 120m

The fifth position is claimed by the Amels 120 Full Custom, a project that combines the renowned craftsmanship of Amels with the allure of a fully customized experience. Anticipated to measure 120 meters upon completion, this yacht offers potential buyers the opportunity to tailor every aspect of their maritime haven. For those seeking a yacht as unique as their aspirations, the Amels 120 Full Custom is a canvas awaiting personalization.

6. Abeking 6514 | 120m

Sailing into the sixth spot is the Abeking 6514, a vessel that exemplifies the German shipbuilding excellence of Abeking & Rasmussen. At 120 meters, this yacht is a testament to precision engineering and timeless design. With its expansive deck spaces and luxurious interiors, the Abeking 6514 promises an unparalleled yachting experience for those who appreciate the marriage of German craftsmanship and maritime splendor.

7. Feadship 821 | 118.8m

Feadship, synonymous with uncompromising quality, secures the seventh spot as the biggest yacht in the world in 2024 with the Feadship 821. Measuring 118.8 meters, this project is a collaboration between Feadship and the esteemed design firm Studio De Voogt. The Feadship 821 is set to redefine the boundaries of yachting, offering a harmonious blend of sophistication and functionality. For those who demand nothing but the best, Feadship delivers an experience that transcends the ordinary.

8. Oceanco Y722 | 111m

The eighth position on our list is claimed by Oceanco Y722, a project that encapsulates the Dutch shipyard’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of yacht design. Anticipated to measure 111 meters, this vessel is a canvas for visionary owners seeking a yacht that marries innovation with luxury. Oceanco Y722 promises an unforgettable journey into opulence and maritime excellence.

9. Freire NB729 | 105m

Freire NB729, the ninth on our list, is a project that emanates the spirit of Spanish shipbuilding prowess. At 105 meters, this yacht showcases Freire’s dedication to precision and craftsmanship. With its striking exterior and thoughtfully designed interiors, Freire NB729 promises to be a vessel that commands attention on the seas. For those seeking a yacht born of European expertise, this project embodies maritime artistry.

10. Feadship 824 | 98m

Closing our list is the Feadship 824, a project that signifies the relentless pursuit of perfection by Feadship. At 98 meters, this vessel may be the smallest on our list, but it certainly doesn’t compromise on luxury. Designed in collaboration with Redman Whiteley Dixon, Feadship 824 promises to be a testament to the Dutch shipyard’s commitment to craftsmanship and elegance. For those who appreciate a yacht that marries understated luxury with precision design, Feadship 824 is a captivating choice.

Explore Our Biggest Yachts for Sale in Miami

Explore our collection of the world’s largest yachts for sale in Miami and experience the ultimate in nautical luxury. Our selection of vessels boasts state-of-the-art technology, lavish interiors, and top-of-the-line amenities to ensure a comfortable and extravagant journey on the high seas.

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Whether you’re an avid yacht enthusiast or a discerning buyer, don’t miss this opportunity to cruise on the azure waters of Miami or beyond in a stunning vessel that will turn heads. Our biggest yachts for sale invite you to discover a world where every journey celebrates the extraordinary. Click now to explore our collection and make your maritime dreams a reality. Contact us at +1-305-857-8939 or drop us an email at [email protected] to learn more.

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From the exceedingly large to the downright gargantuan, the top 20 largest yachts in the world continue to impress. Built by shipyards all over the world—from the Netherlands to the United Arab Emirates, Italy, the United States, Greece, and the United Kingdom, to name just a few—new launches and refits are delivered each year, at the request of owners around the globe. Some yards, such as the Germany-based Lürssen, complete more than their share of the largest yachts. Of the top 20 featured here, the company has built nine, and that’s not even including the two built by Blohm+Voss. The below list changes a little every year, but some of these vessels have remained in the top 20 for years. Here are the top 20 largest yachts in the world to date.

20. ‘Al Mirqab’ (133-metres), Kusch Yachts

Kusch Yachts’  “ Al Mirqab.”  Photo: Shutterstock / PitK

Launched in 2008,  Al Mirqab  was built for Qatar’s former prime minister under the supervision of   Kusch Yachts   in the   Peters Werft shipyard  in Wewelsfleth, Germany. The Tim Heywood exterior includes a long, navy-blue hull with a white superstructure. The yacht’s diesel-electric propulsion involves an azimuth pod drive and gives the 133-metre vessel a top end of 21 knots. Its interior by Andrew Winch won several awards, with images showing Arabic-influenced motifs on the marble floors of large social areas. The yacht’s centrepiece is a stunning, complicated floating staircase encircled by custom-made glass panels. Al Mirqab  has staterooms for 36, and crew quarters for 45.

19. ‘Serene’ (133.9-metres), Fincantieri

Fincantieri’s “Serene.”  Photo: Nick Wells

Serene  was   Fincantieri ’s launch into the superyacht segment, and what a debut it was. The largest yacht ever launched in Italy when it was delivered in 2011 (surpassed three years later by  Ocean Victory ), the Espen Øino seven-deck design features a long, sleek blue hull, crowned by a white superstructure. The somewhat racy curves serve as a nice counterpart to the more serious-looking sections of the yacht, which include cutouts along the main and upper decks to allow strong visibility from the saloon and staterooms. The curved balconies on three levels are a nice touch that work aesthetically—and practically for better views. The open stern area has a winter garden (enclosed glasshouse) that allows dining in all seasons. Serene  also has two helipads and a hangar, a big swimming pool, and a tender garage large enough for a submarine. Pascale Reymond of Reymond Langton Design created the 4000-square-metre interior for the Russian owner, though its details have remained closely guarded.

18. ‘Crescent’ (135-metres), Lürssen

Lürssen’s “Crescent.”  Photo: Klaus Jordan

Espen Øino’s dark hull and tiered superstructure was one of the most exciting launches of 2018. Custom-built Project Thunder, as it was called internally at Lürssen, features cut-outs along the hull sides that allow full ocean views from the saloon on the primary deck, as part of  Crescent ’s distinctive curved superstructure. Its most noteworthy feature is the jaw-dropping bank of three-deck-high windows in the centre of the yacht. This architectural feature serves as the centrepiece of a very compelling design. The yacht has accommodation for 18 guests in nine staterooms. Little is known about the François Zuretti-designed interior, other than that Lürssen describes it as being “traditionally styled”. If it lives up to Crescent ’s brash exterior, the complete yacht promises to be an entirely groundbreaking design.

17. ‘Savarona’ (136-metres), Blohm+Voss

Blohm+Voss’s “Savarona.”  Photo: Shutterstock / EvrenKalinbacak

Launched in 1931,  Savarona  was built for American heiress Emily Roebling Cadwallader. The yacht was eventually acquired by Turkey to be the presidential yacht of Kemal Atatürk, founder of modern Turkey.  Jane’s Fighting Ships  described the yacht in 1949 as “probably the most sumptuously fitted yacht afloat”.  Savarona was later converted to a training ship for the Turkish Navy and, in 1978, destroyed by fire. The yacht laid in tatters for 10 years. A Turkish businessman spent around $67 million refurbishing Savarona , commissioning Donald Starkey for the interior and replacing the original steam-turbine engines with modern Caterpillar diesels. The yacht’s interior was refitted again in 2013, once again becoming the official presidential yacht in 2014.  Savarona features a swimming pool, Turkish bath, 85-metre grand staircase, a movie theatre, and a library dedicated to Atatürk.

16. ‘Flying Fox’ (136-metres), Lürssen

Lürssen’s “Flying Fox.”  Photo: Courtesy of SuperYachtTimes/Youtube

Delivered jointly by Imperial and Lürssen in 2019, 136 metre Flying Fox is recognised by a curvaceous dove grey hull. Exterior design is by Monaco-based Espen Øino, a key feature of which is a 1-metre swimming pool which runs athwartship on the main aft deck. A feat of engineering by the new construction team at Imperial, it is the first time a yacht has been fitted with a pool of this type. Imperial has disclosed little about the interior design by Mark Berryman, apart from the inclusion of a two-floor 400-square-metre spa. Flying Fox  is PYC compliant and can accommodate 25 guests.

15. ‘Rising Sun’ (138.4-metres), Lürssen

Lürssen’s “Rising Sun.”  Photo: Courtesy of Lürssen

Designed by the original guru of yacht designers, Jon Bannenberg,  Rising Sun  was built by Lürssen for Oracle CEO Larry Ellison. The yacht was delivered in 2004 and last refitted in 2011. Defined by banks of windows across the superstructure,  Rising Sun has 800 square metres of living space in 82 rooms. It can accommodate 18 guests in nine cabins, with the capacity to carry up to 46 crew. The interior by Seccombe Design includes a gym, cinema, and wine cellar. The rear cockpit deck was designed as a basketball court.

14. ‘Al Salamah’ (139-metres), Lürssen

Lürssen’s “Al Salamah.”  Photo: Courtesy of Lürssen

When Lürssen launched  Al Salamah  in 1999, it was the third-largest yacht in the world. Its ranking at number 14 shows how much has changed in the last 20 years. Code-named MIPOS, or Mission Possible, the yacht was designed by Terence Disdale. The large imposing exterior is primarily protected space, with an upper deck exposed to the elements.  Al Salamah  has staterooms for 40 guests, including two owner suites, 11 VIP staterooms, and eight twin cabins. The yacht can carry up to 96 crew and has a top speed of 22 knots.  Al Salamah  was last refitted in 2009.

13. ‘Project Lightning’ (140-metres), Lürssen

Lürssen’s “Project Lightning.”  Photo: Courtesy of SuperYachtTimes/Youtube

At 140-metres, Lürssen-built Project Lightning (as it is currently dubbed) was the largest launch of 2019, and the highest new entry in the world’s top 20 largest yachts. Project Lightning underwent sea trials in the Spring, and is preparing for its imminent 2020 delivery, but to date few details have been released by the German shipyard. What can so far be deciphered from photography includes two helipads, forward and aft, and a large beach club aft, as well as a reported seven-foot beam.

12. ‘Ocean Victory’ (140-metres), Fincantieri

Fincantieri’s “Ocean Victory.”  Photo: Trevor Coppock /  TheYachtPhoto.com

The largest motor yacht ever built in Italy,  Fincantieri’s   Ocean Victory  was delivered to its owner in 2014. The seven-deck exterior by Espen Øino includes two helideck platforms and a hangar belowdecks, as well as exceptional outdoor social areas, and a floodable tender dock.  Ocean Victory  has accommodations for 28 guests as well as quarters for 56 crew.  Ocean Victory also has six pools, a 306-square-metre spa, and an underwater observation room. The interior by Alberto Pinto remains a secret.

11. ‘Yas’ (141-metres), Abu Dhabi Mar

Abu Dhabi Mar’s “Yas.”  Photo: Harvey Barrison

As a converted yacht,  Yas  is one of the most interesting vessels on this list. The dolphin-like exterior was originally a former Dutch Navy frigate that launched in 1978 and eventually sold to the navy of the United Arab Emirates, where it was renamed  Al Emirat . The yacht underwent its dramatic conversion in a facility in Abu Dhabi’s main port, emerging as a gleaming superyacht in 2011, with one of the most interesting profiles on the water. It was eventually delivered four years later. The design by the Paris-based Pierrejean Vision, defined by massive glass surfaces, can accommodate 60 guests and 58 crew members. Mated to a steel hull, the superstructure is the largest composite edifice ever built.  Yas  is capable of a 26-knot top speed.

10. ‘A’ (142.8-metres), Nobiskrug

Nobiskrug’s sailing yacht “A.”  Photo: Courtesy of Nobiskrug

Delivered in 2017, the futuristic look of sailing yacht  A includes smooth, silver-metallic surfaces and windows that look nearly invisible, three composite masts that bend slightly, and a deck hidden by high bulwarks. The Philippe Starck-design is a wild fantasy yacht of the future. The 142.8-metre sailing yacht is a technical victory for German yard   Nobiskrug , which developed composite fashion plates to create the unusual shapes, without any compromises in strength or fluidity. It has the tallest freestanding composite masts on any sailing vessel, a hybrid diesel-electric propulsion system and state-of-the-art navigation systems. The boat also reportedly has an underwater viewing platform in the keel. “Sailing yacht  A  is undoubtedly one of the most visionary projects Nobiskrug has ever been involved in,” said Holger Kahl, the firm’s then managing director. Starck’s interior remains a secret. The yard reports the yacht has a top speed of 21 knots.

9. ‘El Mahrousa’ (145.7-metres), Samuda Brothers

Egypt’s royal yacht, “El_Mahrousa.”  Screengrab

El Mahrousa , which means “the protected” in Arabic, is currently Egypt’s presidential yacht, though the 145-metre vessel has a separate history as that country’s royal yacht. The London-based Samuda Brothers began the build in 1863, and it was launched in 1865. It was originally built for the Ottoman governor of Egypt, Khedive Ismail, and later carried three Egyptian kings into exile. The yacht was also at the opening of the Suez Canal in 1869. The world’s oldest superyacht features external design by the British naval architect Sir Oliver Lang, and has had multiple modifications over the years, including a lengthening by 12-metres in 1872 and another 5-metres in 1905. During the second refit, the owners replaced its paddle-wheel engines with turbine-driven propellers. The yacht, in care of the Egyptian Navy, occasionally goes to sea for a day or two. In 2015, it was used to inaugurate the new Suez Canal.

8. ‘Prince Abdulaziz’ (147-metres), Helsingør Værft

Helsingør Værft’s “Prince Abdulaziz.”  Photo: Shutterstock / Artesia Wells

This custom yacht, launched by Helsingør Værft in Denmark in 1984, was most recently refitted in 2005. The 5,200-tonne  Prince Abdulaziz is one of the Saudi Royal family’s yachts, its first owner being King Fahd. Designed by Maierform, the yacht was the longest and tallest in the world at the time of its launch. At 147-metres, Prince Abdulaziz  held the title for 22 years until  Dubai  launched in 2006. The late David Nightingale Hicks, known for his use of bright colors, was the interior designer. The lobby is said to be a replica of the  Titanic . Last refitted in 2005, it is rumoured to be carrying surface-to-air missiles, though that may be an urban legend.

7. ‘A+’ (147.2-metres), Lürssen

Lürssen’s ‘A+.’  Photo: Klaus Jordan

Very little is known about  A+  (formerly  Topaz) , which was launched by Lürssen in 2012, other than it is the fourth-largest yacht ever built by the German shipyard. Tim Heywood Designs did the exterior, which features helipads on the foredeck and amidships on an upper deck. A lower aft deck includes a swimming pool. The German yard has not released any images of the Terence Disdale interior. Reported to be owned by Manchester City Football Club owner Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed al Nahnan – Emirati royalty and deputy prime minister of the UAE –  A+  has a top speed of 22 knots, and can carry 62 guests and up to 79 crew.

6. ‘Al Saïd’ (155-metres), Lürssen

Lürssen’s “Al Saïd.”  Courtesy of Shutterstock

Another yacht from Lürssen, the original Project Sunflower gained its official name of Al Saïd  following its launch in 2016. Espen Øino’s exterior is akin to a classic cruise liner, complete with the twin exhaust stacks in the center of the superstructure. Owned by the Sultan of Oman, six-decked  Al Saïd  can carry 154 crew and, according to some sources, 70 guests. Lürssen says  Al Saïd  has a top speed of 22 knots. The London-based Redman Whiteley Dixon studio designed the interior, which includes a concert hall that can hold a 50-piece orchestra.

5. ‘Dilbar’ (156-metres), Lürssen

Lürssen’s “Dilbar.”  Photo: Josep Baresic

The 2016 launch of Dilbar  gave Lürssen the distinction of not only building the longest yacht ever ( Azzam ), but also the largest in terms of volume. Espen Øino designed the exterior, creating a full-bodied superstructure of long, flowing decks, along with two helicopter pads.  Dilbar  also has a 25-metre swimming pool that according to Lürssen, is the world’s longest on a yacht. The interior by  Winch Design  is defined by its “rare and exclusive luxury materials,” says the builder, declining to go into detail. Lürssen added that the world’s largest motor yacht was one of the most complex and challenging yachts ever built, because of its dimensions and technology. Despite  Dilbar ’s volume, the designers did a masterful job making the yacht look relatively svelte, with no obvious bulges along the length of the light ivory and bronze-accented hull.

4. ‘Dubai’ (162-metres), Platinum Yachts

Sheikh Al Maktoum’s yacht, “Dubai.”  Photo: Bigstock

This Andrew Winch design was originally commissioned for Prince Jefri Bolkiah of Brunei as a joint project between Blohm+Voss and Lürssen, before it was halted in 1998 with just a bare hull and skeletal superstructure. The hull was sold to the government of Dubai, and, under the direction of the country’s ruler, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, work on the 162-metre boat began again, though this time by Platinum Yachts. Dubai delivered in 2006 and is now the sheikh’s royal yacht, with accommodations for 24 guests and quarters for 88 crew. The seven-decked yacht has an impressive 21-metre-wide atrium, landing pad for a Black Hawk helicopter, submarine garage, disco, and cinema. Full certification was obtained from Lloyd’s Register in October 2006, and it can reach a top speed of 26 knots.

3. ‘Eclipse’ (162.5-metres), Blohm+Voss

Blohm+Voss’s “Eclipse” anchored off the beach of Ibiza.  Photo: Shutterstock / R_Pilguj

Stately  Eclipse , the 162-metre yacht delivered to billionaire Roman Abramovich, took five years to design and build. When it left the Blohm+Voss shipyard in Hamburg in 2010, it was the world’s largest yacht. The interior has 17 staterooms and a palatial master suite, with the capacity to carry 85 crew. Both the interior and exterior are designed by Terence Disdale. A proportional profile is defined by tiered decks that sweep upward and bend ever so slightly at the aft ends. Eclipse has a 56-metre-long owner’s deck and, at the time of its launch, the largest swimming pool on any superyacht (the bottom raises and converts to a dance floor). Other features reflecting its stature: the capacity to hold three helicopters, including one in its belowdecks hangar, a sophisticated stabilisation system, six tenders, and an enormous spa, gym, and beach club. Hybrid diesel-electric engines are connected to Azipod drives that give Eclipse a top-end speed of 21 knots, with a range of 6000 nautical miles.

2. ‘Fulk Al Salamah’ (164-metres), Mariotti Yachts

Mariotti Yachts’ “Fulk Al Salamah.”  Screengrab

Little information has ever been released about the world’s second-longest superyacht, custom-built Fulk Al Salamah , and it has been shrouded in mystery since first announced in 2014. Even the overall length of 164-metres has been estimated from AIS data. However, built and delivered by Italian builder Mariotti Yachts in their Genoa shipyard in 2016, the imposing vessel is believed to be owned by the Omani royal family. Exterior design is by Studio de Jorio, and it is considered by some to resemble more of a support vessel than a superyacht. Nonetheless, aerial photography shows an impressively large helideck, raked masts and a bathing platform.

1: ‘Azzam’ (180.6-metres), Lürssen

Lürssen’s “Azzam.”  Screengrab

It’s not surprising that the world’s longest yacht hails from a shipyard dominating the upper echelon of boat-building. Unfortunately,   Lürssen   could never really boast about  Azzam  after its launch in 2013 because of the owner’s penchant for privacy. Mubarak Saad al Ahbabi directed a team of designers and engineers who started with the bare concept, worked through the technical challenges of what might be the most complex superyacht ever, and finished with an unusually large vessel that can top the 30-knot mark. Nauta Yacht’s exterior features a long, sleek forward area, with well-proportioned tiers moving up to the skydeck. Lürssen describes the interior by Christophe Leoni as “sophisticated, with luxurious decor inspired by the Empire style of the early 19th century”. Its gas turbines connected to water jets push Azzam to more than 30 knots, giving it the ability to operate at high speed in shallow waters. She also boasts an impressive build time for a yacht of her size, with construction taking only three years after one year of engineering.

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The Boldest, Most Exciting New Timepieces From Watches & Wonders 2024

Here are the highlights from the world’s biggest watch releases of the year.

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Watches & Wonders, the world’s largest watch show, is in full swing in Geneva. The highly anticipated cascade of new releases is marked by confident individual brand identities — perhaps a sign that watchmakers are done scrambling through the violent collision of restricted supply and soaring demand for high end watches. All seem to be back on solid footing.

Steady confidence is a good thing. Consider Jaeger-LeCoultre offering up traditionally styled grand complications or Vacheron Constantin revamping the classic Patrimony with smaller cases and vintage-inspired radially brushed dials. Consider TAG Heuer celebrating the 55th anniversary of the square Monaco with a skeletonized flyback confidently priced at US$183,000, or Moser similarly showing off a fascinating skeletonized tourbillon in its distinctive 40 mm Streamliner at US$86,900. IWC has leaned hard into their traditionally styled Portugieser line, including an astounding Eternal Calendar complication. We find the storied French houses of Cartier, Chanel and Hermes blurring the lines between jewelry and watchmaking with the technical prowess and artistic whimsy that originally earned these brands their exalted place in the hearts and minds of sophisticated aesthetes. Confidence abounds in 2024.

We could go on and on with examples, but the watches below will demonstrate that for 2024 the big watch brands dared to be themselves, which appears to have given them the confidence to take some seriously compelling horological risks. We have separate coverage of off-show releases and, of course, Patek and Rolex, so keep and eye out for those.

A. Lange Söhne Datograph Perpetual Tourbillon Honeygold Lumen

Having set benchmarks in horological statecraft and finishing techniques, A. Lange & Söhne proceeded in 2010 to take the concept of illuminating the dial to the next level by introducing Lumen. It has since applied the concept to only five models, all complications, and all made in limited editions, the last one being the Zeitwerk Honeygold in 2021. The new Datograph Perpetual Tourbillon Honeygold Lumen is the sixth in the Lumen series, and only the second in Honeygold, the brand’s proprietary gold alloy (four of the six models have been platinum). Lumen works by light-powered technology. The dial plate is made of a sapphire crystal that is tinted just enough to allow light to pass through and pre-energize the readings, which are coated in a luminous pigment. A special coating on the crystal filters out most of the visible light, but not the part of the UV spectrum that is needed to charge the luminous compound with enough light energy to keep them glowing uniformly in the dark. The luminous compound is applied to the disks of the day, date, month and chronograph subdials, and together those coatings are so intense that the glow is strong enough to cast light onto the minute and tachymeter scales as well. The disks of the date window are also completely coated, and a fun sideshow is that you can see the disks move at midnight because they appear in shadow behind the sapphire. The hour, minute and seconds hands are also treated with a luminous compound, and in a final flourish, so are the stars and moon in the sky of the moon phase disk.

This is one of Lange’s most prestigious complications, combining a tourbillon escapement with a hacking seconds, flyback chronograph with jumping minute counter and perpetual calendar with big date. It contains the manually wound caliber L952.4, decorated on every surface, with black polish, polished gold chatons, blued screws, engraved balance cock and Glashütte stripes. This movment was introduced in 2016. The Lumen version is limited to 50 pieces.

Case Size: 41.5 mm x 14.6 mm Case Material: 18k Honeygold Power Reserve: 50 hours Strap: Dark brown alligator Price: price upon request

A. Lange Söhne Datograph Up Down

It has been 25 years since A. Lange & Söhne introduced its celebrated premium chronograph, the Datograph, and to mark the occasion the German firm is offering 125 lucky people a chance to own a model in 18k white gold with a first-ever blue dial. The original Datograph movement, the L951.1, has served as the basis for the brand’s current catalog of 13 models with a chronograph function. It’s a column-wheel chrono with a flyback function, a jumping hand totalizing 30 minutes on the 3 o’clock subdial, and the typical Lange big date at 12 o’clock. The Datograph Up/Down, launched in 2012 with the caliber L951.6, increased the power reserve from 36 to 60 hours.

“Up/Down” refers to the unique power reserve indicator at 6 o’clock. It indicates the fully wound AUF (up) status and AB (down) status of the movement, at which point the hand will pivot to the red section, indicating it’s time to wind the watch. If you can’t get your hands on one of the 125 pieces of this blue Datograph Up Down, it’s good to know the model is still available in a platinum and pink-gold with black dials.

Case Size: 41 mm x 13.1 mm Case Material: 18k white gold Power Reserve: 60 hours Strap: Blue alligator Price: 125 numbered pieces, price upon request

Cartier Tortue Privé Time-Only and Chronograph

For the 8th annual edition of its Cartier Privé collection—an ultra-exclusive-line dedicated to the reintroduction of archival heroes—the house has introduced new Tortue models. First introduced at the house in 1912, it was originally referred to as the “tortue à pattes” (tortoise on paws) for its curvy case and lugs. It was revisited decades later in Cartier’s CPCP collection—also a tribute line to past treasured releases that ran roughly from 1998 to 2008. Now the manufacture is bringing back this curvy model in a series of five iterations, two of which are monopusher chronographs.

There are some subtle updates to distinguish the new models from their ancestors, however. The time-only editions have a slimmer profile, are lighter. The monopusher chronograph was first introduced in 1928 and later reintroduced in 1998. Today it still has the blued-steel apple-shaped hands, a hollowed central seconds hand, and it also features rhodium-platred roman numerals and beveled springs and bridges. These are true connoisseur pieces for the rare Cartier savants.

Case Material: Yellow gold or platinum Case Size: 41.4 mm by 32.9 mm by 7.2 mm for time-only; 43.7 by 34.8 mm by 10.2 mm for chronograph Movement: Mechanical winding 430 MC for time-only; mechanical winding 1928 MC Price: Yellow gold, US$31,000; Platinum, US$35,600; Platinum with diamonds, US$59,000, limited to 50; Chronograph in Platinum, US$59,000, limited to 200; Chronograph in yellow gold, US$51,000, limited to 200

Cartier Santos

Everyone’s favorite Parisian jeweler has prepared an embarrassment of Santos de Cartier references for this year’s edition of Watches & Wonders. First up is the new Dual Time, a Large-sized model (40.2mm) in steel on either a matching bracelet or an anthracite-colored alligator leather strap with the maison’s QuickSwitch interchangeable system and folding buckle. The Santos de Cartier, with its origins as an early-20th century pilot’s watch — (albeit an extremely dressy one, by today’s standards) — is made even more utilitarian and toolish by the addition of a combination 12-hour dial/day-night indicator above 6 o’clock that indicates a second time zone, plus an obligatory date window at 3 o’clock. Featuring Cartier’s classic faceted, synthetic blue spinel crown; a satin-finish anthracite grey sunray dial; and rhodium-finished, luminescent hands, it’s a handy addition to a collection that’s been around for well over a century.

If you’d prefer a simple time-only variant of the Santos de Cartier, you’ve got a few new options: First, a Medium model (35.1mm) in steel with a matching bracelet or a brown alligator leather strap; a synthetic blue spinel crown; and a beautiful, satin-finished, graduated brown sunray dial with polished, luminescent steel sword hands. Want it in a Large version? It’s available in a 30.8mm case with the same mix of metal/dial — but then there’s also a two-tone version with a steel case, yellow gold dial, and an anthracite grey dial; plus a fully yellow gold version with a brown sunburst dial and either a matching bracelet or a brown leather alligator strap. All versions feature 100m of water resistance, but the Medium versions have no date, whereas the Large versions have a date window at 6 o’clock.

Diameter: 35.1mm (Medium); 39.8mm (Large); 40.2 (Dual Time) Movement: Cartier 1847 MC (Medium and Large) automatic Power Reserve: 48 hours (Medium and Large) Price: US$7,050 (Medium); $7,750; $11,700; $36,600 (Large); $9,150 (Dual Time)

Cartier Santos Dumont Rewind

Continuing the Santos theme, we’ve got several beautiful new Santos Dumont references on ours hands, the first of which will no doubt blow your mind: The new Rewind, in the collection’s Large size (31.5 mm), is a 200-piece limited edition in platinum with a ruby cabochon crown; a carnelian dial; rhodium-finished, apple-shaped hands; and an inverted set of applied Roman numeral indices that ascend counter-clockwise around the dial. Why? The manually-wound 230 MC movement actually tells the time backwards. Why? Ostensibly, it’s a celebration of Brazilian Santos-Dumont’s pioneering spirit. To us — it’s just dope.

Diameter: 31.5 mm (Large) Case material: Platinum Movement: Cartier 230 MC hand-wound (Rewind) Price: US$34,500

Cartier Santos Arabic Numeral

If reading a watch dial backwards just isn’t your bag, baby, then feast your eyes on these three handsome models with colored dials and cases. First up is a rose gold version with striking, peacock blue lacquer, a matching dial, and a semi-matte blue alligator leather strap with a rose gold buckle. Next is platinum-cased reference with olive green lacquer on the bezel, plus a matching green sunray dial with applied Arabic indices, sword hands and a green alligator leather strap with a platinum buckle. And lastly, we have a yellow gold version with taupe grey lacquer, a matching, satin-finish grey dial with applied Arabic indices, and a matte grey alligator leather strap with a gold pin buckle. While the green platinum version is limited to 200 pieces, the two gold editions appear to be regular catalog models…for now.

Diameter: 39.8mm (Large) Movement: Cartier 430 MC Power Reserve: 43 hours Price: US$21,900 (Large, Platinum, Green); $15,600 (Large, Rose Gold, Blue); $15,600 (Large, Yellow Gold)

Reflection de Cartier

Cartier has long been a lover of illusion. Take for instance its highly collectible Mystère clocks where the clock face appears to float within its frame or the groundbreaking Masse Mysterieuse timepiece, where the entire movement, which doubled as a rotor, seemed to spin midair on the wrist. Now the maison is delivering the same trompe l’œil effect on its latest jewelry timepiece, Reflection de Cartier—a diamond-accented open cuff with one tip accented with a timepiece and the other with a mirror, so that the time may be viewed either way you put it on. The “body” of the bracelet is decorated with a combination of snow-set and inverted diamonds. While all of the four iterations of this piece are lust-worthy, the pieces set with multiple precious stones and diamonds, however, including the emerald, chrysoprase, and Paraíba version (pictured) are the ultimate collector pieces of the lot.

Case Material: Rose gold; yellow gold; rhodium-finished white gold with white diamonds; rhodium-finished white gold with chrysoprase, obsidian, emeralds, Paraiba tourmalines and diamonds; rhodium-finished white gold with opal, tiger, amethysts, spessartite garnets, and diamonds. Movement: Quartz Price: Price Upon Request Material: Rhodium-finished white gold with opal, tiger eye, amethysts, spessartite garnets, and diamonds (not pictured); rhodium-finished white gold in chrysoprase, obsidian, emeralds, Paraíba tourmalines, and diamonds; rhodium-finished white gold and diamonds; rose gold Price: Upon Request

Cartier-Animals

In a departure from its perennial Panthère motif, the house focused on another creature this season, the crocodile, which wrapped around dials in gem-set splendor. But they didn’t forsake their feline friend which appeared literally perched on top of a multi-colored dial, while others sported zebra-like stripes in a nod to Jeanne Toussaint’s beloved animal themes

Case Material: Rhodium-finished white gold with tourmalines, sapphires, emeralds, and diamonds; rhodium-finished white gold with mother-of-pearl, sapphires, diamonds, and emeralds; rhodium-finished white gold with diamonds and emeralds; rhodium-finished white gold with. rhodolite garnets, spessartite garnets, diamonds, emerald, and onyx; Yellow gold, spessartite garnets, and onyx; Yellow gold, onyx, and diamonds Movement:  quartz Price:  Upon Request

Chopard Alpine Eagle XL Chronograph

The Rhône blue dial on the Alpine Eagle is more than just a color. It symbolizes everything the Alpine Eagle collection stands for, namely the preservation of Europe’s Alpine environment. In fact, part of the proceeds from sales of this model will be donated to the Alpine Eagle Foundation, whose latest project supports the Aigles du Léman wildlife park, which reintroduced the white-tailed eagle to the Lake Geneva region. The dial color was inspired by the palette of natural colors inherent to the Alpine landscape, particularly one of the Alps’ most famous rivers, the Rhône, which originates at the heart of the eponymous glacier in the canton of Valais. The river feeds the waters of Lake Geneva and ends its course in the Mediterranean Sea. The texture and sunburst pattern evoke an eagle’s iris – the signature finish of the Alpine Eagle series. The Alpine Eagle Foundation was founded in 2019 by Chopard co-president Karl-Friedrich Scheufele along with experts and devotees of the Alps, including falconer Jacques-Olivier Travers (creator of the Aigles du Léman park) and Ronald Menzel (managing director of the Freedom Conservation NGO campaigning to protect birds of prey). The new Alpine Eagle XL also sports a new case material: Grade 5 titanium, which should lighten the 44 mm watch considerably compared to previous steel and gold models. The caliber 03.05-C is a COSC-certified chronometer flyback chronograph with a 60-hour power reserve that will take you for a weekend trek to the Swiss Alps without needing a rewind.

Case Size: 44 mm x 13.15 mm Case Material: Grade 5 titanium Power Reserve: 60 hours Strap: Rubber Price: US$25,000

Chanel-Black-and-White

Nobody does updated classics quite like the design teams at CHanel, and the new edition of its Diamond Tourbillon proves it. While the original versions were offered in shiny ceramic, the latest models are rendered in matte black and white styles. This means there’s nothing to compete with the natural brilliance of the diamond solitaire set at the center or the flying tourbillon cage. You might just lose track of time watching it rotate back with the mechanism.

Case Size: 38 mm Case Material: Ceramic and steel Power Reserve: 42 hours Price:  TBC

Chanel Haute Horlogerie Pink Editions

Chanel Bobbin Cuff

Inspired by the various tools Coco Chanel used to make her genre-defining couture garments, these jewelry watches don’t immediately look like they can tell time. The Bobbin Cuff, for example, takes its cues from a spool of thread, and hides its watch underneath a yellow sapphire set in the gold. Three other pieces—a watch, a necklace, and a ring—each resemble pin cushions, albeit ones crafted from gold, diamonds, mother-of-pearl, and onyx.

Material:  Yellow gold, diamonds, and yellow diamond Price:  Upon Request

Chopard L.U.C XPS Forest Green

Vintage-style green dials are making their way into the permanent catalog of many flagship collections these days. Applied to the 40 mm L.U.C XPS and combined with a similarly retro-styled sector dial, the hue transforms what has always been a dress watch into a more sportier affair. The ‘S’ in the XPS acronym refers to the small seconds at 6 o’clock, while the XP stands for extra plat (thin). The case is a mere 7.20 mm thick, and it’s made of Lucent steel, Chopard’s proprietary alloy produced with a recycling rate of at least 80%. The precise divisions of the sector dial include two concentric rings that separate the minutes from the hours, with radial lines running between the inner and outer edges of the rings, creating the “sectors.” The in-house automatic chronometer caliber L.U.C 96.12-L powers this classically styled timepiece.Case Size: 40 mm x 7.20 mm

Case Material: Lucent Steel Power Reserve: 65 hours Strap: Brown calfskin with ecru stitching Price: US$11,800

Chopard Imperiale

Chopard’s Imperiale collection was launched in 2010 to showcase the company’s in-house metiers capabilities, combined with in-house premium mechanical movements. The dial of the edition is covered with a blue-green enamel background, dotted with a perfectly uniform pattern of white enamel and pink mother-of-pearl marquetry flowers. The center of each white flower is set with an orange padparadscha sapphire and each pink flower with a diamond. The flowers and center gems are surrounded by rims of 18k white gold, raised slightly above the dial. The resulting pattern mimics the quatrefoil floral motif in Venetian architecture, particularly in the Doges Palace. The movement is the Chopard caliber 96.17-C, equipped with a double barrel that delivers a 65-hour power reserve. This Imperiale is only available at Chopard boutiques.

Case Size: 36 mm Case Material:  18k white gold Power Reserve:  65 hours Strap:  Blue-green alligator, 18k gold buckle set with diamonds Price:  On request

Chopard Happy Sport

The Happy Sport’s familiar bezel-set diamonds have been dancing happily between two sapphire crystals since 1993, but over the years this watch has continued to look fresh in its various iterations. This year, two of the five mobile diamonds are replaced by aquamarines in one model and pink tourmalines in the other, though Chopard breezily refers to these colors as “flamboyant pink” and “luminous blue.” Each model has straps, hands and stylized Roman numerals colored to match the gems, and there is also a complimentar gemstone in the crown. The center of the dial is decorated in a swirling guilloché pattern that adds a dressy touch to the sporty style, as does the diamond-set bezel. The Happy Sport contains the in-house automatic caliber 09.01-C. Each color is limited to 250 pieces, for a total of 500.

Case Size: 33 mm x 10.84 mm Case Material: Lucent Steel Power Reserve: 42 hours Strap: Alligator Price: US$16,900

Grand Seiko SBGC275 Caliber 9R 20th Anniversary Limited Edition

In celebration of the 20th anniversary of Grand Seiko’s 9R Spring Drive movement — a unique caliber that marries the best of mechanical and battery-powered technology — the Japanese watchmaker is releasing the Sport Collection Caliber 9R 20th Anniversary Limited Edition SBGC275. An edition of 700 pieces, the 44.5mm titanium watch combines GMT functionality with an equally useful chronograph in a sporty but beautifully finished package. Paired to a matching H-link bracelet with a three-fold clasp, it makes for an excellent traveler’s or everyday watch, though its larger dimensions are certainly better suited for bigger wrists.

What differentiates this GMT-chronograph entry in the brand’s catalog is its special dial: Inspired by the Hotaka mountain range in Japan’s Shinshu region, its striking red-orange hue is meant to represent the sun reflecting off the local landscape at dawn. Never a company to simply apply a layer of colorful paint and call it a day, Grand Seiko utilized a patented process called “Optical Multilayer Coating,” which uses PVD to apply a nanoscale film that changes colors depending upon the viewing angle. Equipped with its shimmering dial and impressive Calibre 9R96 — which offers accuracy to within +/- 10 seconds per month — the SBGC275 is proof positive of Grand Seiko’s artful yet high tech approach to fine watchmaking.

Diameter: 44.5mm Movement: Grand Seiko Caliber 9R96 Spring Drive Power Reserve: 72 hours Price: US$13,400

Grand Seiko SLGH021 Limited Edition

The wide variety of styles available within the Grand Seiko catalog make it an ideal place to shop for an everyday watch — something robust enough to stand up to the rigors of life’s bangs and scratches, but elegant enough to make it through a business lunch or an important event. The new SLGH021 is just such a timepiece: With its 40mm case in Ever-Brilliant Stainless Steel — a highly corrosion-resistant alloy — it’s well poised to survive day-to-day wear. But set within its smooth bezel is a mesmerizingly beautiful dial in a vivid blue-green. Inspired by the Genbi Valley in Iwate Prefecture, it uses an incredible “molded” pattern that deserves to be studied up close.

Meanwhile, within the watch is Grand Seiko’s Calibre 9SA5, an automatic hi-beat caliber that brings together numerous Grand Seiko technologies: Boasting twin barrels, 47 jewels, and the brand’s Dual-Impulse Escapement, it offers 80 hours of power reserve despite an unusually high beat-rate of 36,000 vph. Excellent movement, special stainless steel formula, and beautiful dial aside, the SLGH021, like many Grand Seiko models, makes use of the Zaratsu polishing, which lends everything from the case to the handset a delicate balance of brushed and mirror polished surfaces, much like a samurai’s blade. Limited to 1,000 pieces, this is one release you’ll want to nab fast.

Diameter: 40mm Movement: Grand Seiko Caliber 9RA5 automatic Power Reserve: 80 hours Price: US$10,400

Grand Seiko SBGW314

Sometimes a faithful recreation of a beloved vintage model really is all you need.  Grand Seiko’s new SBGW314 is a contemporary 18K rose gold take on the brand’s very first watch from 1960. Measuring 38 mm wide, it features a navy blue “starry night” dial with applied, rose gold indices and the brand’s famously sharp feuille handset. The manually-wound Caliber 9S64 movement keeps the vintage theme alive but offers modern features like three days of power reserve and +5/-3 seconds per day precision. Water resistant to 30 m, the package is finished with a box-shaped sapphire crystal and two straps: a blue crocodile leather model and an additional brown model, both of which feature three-fold clasps.

There’s something about a sub-40mm dress watch in precious metals — particularly a hand-wound one — that never goes out of style. The SBGW314, for those who are lucky enough to nab one of this limited edition of 50 pieces, are sure to end up with a true “forever watch.”

Diameter: 38 mm Movement: Grand Seiko Caliber 9S64 hand-wound Power Reserve: 72 hours Price: US$26,500

Grand Seiko SBGD215

If you like your watch to really knock peoples’ socks off but you also value a horologically impressive movement, then the SBDG215 is the watch for you. (As long as you have $300K to burn on a watch — if you don’t, this is actually not the watch for you. Feel free to window-shop, however.) Housed in a 950 platinum case with sweepingly wide facets, it features an array of baguette-cut sapphires and diamonds set into the case, bezel, and dial. Meant to evoke the most noble of beats sitting atop a snowy mountain, it certainly has the capacity to completely knock your socks off.

Comprising 293 precious stones, the blue sapphires and diamonds are arranged in a five-level gradation within the bezel and a three-level gradation on the lugs, making for a shimmering display of hand-crafted artistry. And the insides are no less impressive — Grand Seiko’s Caliber 9R01 is a Spring Drive movement with triple barrels, offering 192 hours of power reserve. Finally, a blue crocodile leather strap with a three-fold clasp completes the picture.

With a width of 44.5 mm and a case depth of 14.4 mm, this is certainly not a conventional dress watch that will easily disappear under a cuff. However, hours upon hours of stunning, handmade craftsmanship have resulted in a timepiece that, should you throw down $300,000 for one, you’ll be sure to want to show off.

Diameter: 44.5mm Movement: Grand Seiko Caliber 9R01 Spring Drive Power Reserve: 192 hours Price: US$300,00

Grand Seiko SLGW003 and SLGW002

Back in the 1960s and 1970s, Grand Seiko was already developing and releasing manually-wound, hi-beat calibers that promised increased precision via higher frequencies. During Watches & Wonders, the brand is releasing two new references housing the first new Grand Seiko hand-wound, hi-beat movement in over 50 years. Part of the Caliber 9S family that launched in 2020, the 9SA4 beats 10 times per second while offering a power reserve of 80 hours via a Dual Impulse Escapement and twin barrels. Tested in six positions at three temperatures over 17 days, this is a true modern expression of a classic movement type beloved by collectors for the satisfying interaction between watch and wearer.

Available in a dress watch format based upon the 44GS of 1967, the new Caliber 9SA4 is housed in a 38.6mm titanium or 18K rose gold case boasting a sapphire box crystal, a sapphire caseback, 30 m of water resistance, and a thickness of just 9.95 mm. Both expressions come paired to a crocodile strap with a three-fold clasp featuing a push-button release system, and both feature a white birch tree-inspired dial. Limited to 80 pieces, the gold version carries a price of $45,000, while the titanium iteration will set you back $10,700.

Diameter: 38.6 mm Movement: Grand Seiko Caliber 9SA4 hand-wound Power Reserve: 80 hours Price: US$45,000 (SLGW002); $10,700 (SLGW003)

Hermès Arceau Chorus Stellarum

Inspired by the Chorus Stellarum silk scarf designed by the Japanese illustrator Daiske Nomura, the new artistic edition of the round-cased Arceau is a cosmic equestrian scene come to life—literally. A pusher at 9 o’clock activates an animation in which the skeleton horse and rider—embodied in mobile yellow gold appliques, engraved and painted by hand—prance around the champlevé enamel dial whose colorful lacquer-coated motifs are adorned with applied rhodium-plated stars. Reminiscent of the automata that captivated royality of the European Enlightenment, the Chorus Stellarum is sure to captivate all who see it in action.

Available in masculine and feminine versions (the one featuring a horsewoman has a case encircled by diamonds), each comes in a numbered limited edition of six.

Case Size:  41 mm Case Material:  18k white gold Power Reserve:  50 hours Straps:  Matt abyss blue and matte gray alligator straps Price:  White gold case and blue strap, $155,200; diamond-set white gold case and gray strap, US$160,700

Hermès Duc Attelé

Hermès’s new hand-wound grand complication is a world first that combines a central triple-axis tourbillon and “tuning-fork” minute repeater with a high-frequency Manufacture Hermès H1926 movement. Arguably even more impressive is the unique design of the timepiece, which takes its name, Duc Attelé, from the maison’s defining image: a canopy-top four-wheeled carriage drawn by two horses, itself inspired by a drawing by 19th century French animal painter and master of equestrian art Alfred Dreux.

At the center of the dial, beneath a sapphire dome, whirls a triple-axis tourbillon inside a triple mirror-polished titanium carriage. With three separate axes and rotation speeds (completing one full turn in 300, 60 and 25 seconds), the tourbillon operates within a curved, eccentric hour-circle.

Various aesthetic details celebrate the maison’s equestrian heritage, including the Arabic numerals of the hours-minutes display, which are inclined to evoke a galloping horse, and, at 6 o’clock, minute repeater hammers sculpted in the shape of horses.

To hear the chime of the hours, quarters and minutes, simply engage the dedicated slide on the side of the case. Once you do, hammers will strike the elongated U-shaped branches of the steel gong visible around the edge of the dial, a “tuning fork” structure designed to ensure optimal resonance.

Case Size:  43 mm Case Material:  Titanium Power Reserve:  48 hours Strap:  Matt anthracite leather strap Price: US$401,400

With a case made up of “a circle within a round shape” and a crown positioned at 1 o’clock, the new Hermès Cut collection offers a playful commentary on silhouettes. Featuring concentric, and slightly irregular, shapes as a nod to sculpture and hewn marble, the model boasts subtle details, such as a bevel-cut bezel framing an opaline, silver-toned dial. These details punctuate the Cut’s minimalist design.

Available in steel or an elegant two-tone combination of steel and rose gold—with or without diamonds—the Cut is equipped with an in-house H1912 self-winding mechanical movement visible through the sapphire crystal caseback.

Alternating finishes on the integrated metal bracelet echo the case design. The watch also comes with an interchangeable rubber strap available in a range of eight colors drawn from the Hermès palette: white, orange, gris perle, gris étain, glycine, vert criquet, bleu jean and capucine.

Case Size:  36 mm Case Material:  Steel, steel and 18 rose gold, with or without diamonds Power Reserve:  50 hours Straps:  Integrated bracelets in satin-brushed and polished steel, and in satin-brushed and polished steel and rose gold, with interchangeable rubber straps in eight colors Price: From US$6,725 to $21,900

Hublot Square Big Bang Unico

In 2022, Hublot introduced the first square Big Bang. The collection marked the first new case design we had seen within the Big Bang family of watches since the tonneau-shaped model released more than a decade prior. The inaugural square collection consisted of five models in an array of materials from ceramic to titanium and King Gold. Now, two years later, we get two new versions of the Square Bang Unico in Magic Gold. The new models retain much of the original design with a square case, a bezel punctuated with the six signature Big Bang screws, and a skeletonized dial. Of course, the major update comes in the form of a new material prominently featured on the bezel of both models: Hublot’s patented Magic Gold, the first and only 18-karat gold alloy in the world to claim complete scratch resistance.

Case Size: 42 mm Case Material: Polished 18-karat Magic Gold or microblasted and polished black ceramic Movement: Unico 2 self-winding chronograph flyback movement with column wheel Power Reserve: 72-hours Straps: Black structured rubber strap or black ceramic bracelet Price: Full Magic Gold, US$42,700; Ceramic Magic Gold, $31,800

Big Bang Unico Ceramic 42 mm

Though there’s some debate about which firm created the first ceramic watch, the material didn’t begin growing in popularity in watchmaking until the new millennium. Hublot has long been at the forefront of experimentation with cutting-edge materials, so it comes as no surprise that ceramic quickly became a part of the brand’s repertoire in collections like its beloved Big Bang. In early iterations, we saw classic black and white color schemes, but over the years Hublot has grown bold with its use of color. We’ve seen blue, gray, red, yellow, and now orange and green.

Developing new ceramic colors in watchmaking is no small feat. The chemical recipe and firing temperature must be exact to achieve a particular color. The new orange and green hues are the result of much research and development. Offering a 42 mm build and housing Hublot’s latest generation automatic flyback chronograph movement with column wheel actuator, the new Big Bang is a modern marvel.

Case Size: 42mm Case Material: Ceramic Movement: MHUB1280 UNICO 2 Manufacture Self-Winding Chronograph Flyback with Column Wheel and Calendar Display at 3:00 Power Reserve: 72-hours Straps: Black and orange or black and green structured lined rubber straps Price: Green, $24,100; Orange, $29,600

Hublot Big Bang E Gen 3

Hublot was the first watch brand to team up with the sport of football (soccer for those in the US) back in 2006. Since then, its work has taken many forms as the official timekeeper of major competitions and the official watch of prestigious clubs. Then, in 2018, the brand notched another first by developing a special connected edition of its Big Bang E optimized specifically for referees to use on the field. As an extension, Hublot also created a version of the Big Bang E for fans that provides play by play updates on the action, and it can be customized with their team’s colors. This summer, the final phase of the UEFA European Football Championship will take place in Germany. In celebration, Hublot has unveiled a new generation of its Big Bang E Gen 3. The brand first debuted the model in 2022 in conjunction with the FIFA World Cup in Qatar. This updated version will allow its wearer to follow the final phase of the next UEFA 2024 European Championship in real time as 24 teams battle for the win, including France led by Hublot ambassador Kylian Mbappé.

Case Size: 44mm Case Material: Satin-finished and Polished Titanium Movement: Model Qualcomm ® Snapdragon Wear™ 4100+RAM 1GB / 8GB Flash (ePoP) Straps: Black and Sky-Blue Lined Rubber Straps with additional Black and Red, Black and Yellow, or Black and Green Lined Rubber Straps available Price: US$6,500

IWC Portugieser Eternal Calendar

Perpetual? So yesterday! The future – when it comes to mechanical complications which accommodate the quirks of the Gregorian calendar – is eternal. Or so one might have concluded, listening to IWC (and, via a pre-recorded video, British celebrity physicist Brian Cox) present the hero piece of their new novelties, at a pre-Watches & Wonders reveal event in Zurich back in March (which Robb Report attended).

Perpetual calendar watches adjust for leap years every fourth February. The Portugieser Eternal Calendar piece before you, thanks to a newly engineered 400-years gear, accurately takes leap-year exception rules into account and skips three leap years over four centuries (in the years 2100, 2300 and 2400). And if that doesn’t offer a new definition of the phrase “built to last”, how about this: the moon phase display here, thanks to a specially engineered reduction gear, will only deviate from the lunar orbit by one day every 45 million years.

The platinum case, white lacquer dial, rhodium-plated hands and appliques, and black alligator leather strap make for an unfussy yet imperious aesthetic. But it’s this piece’s cred as a feat of micro-engineering – the two-micrometer precision achieved “thanks to semiconductors and computer chips” – that enthuses IWC CEO Christoph Grainger-Herr, when he chats with Robb Report in his Schaffhausen office the day after the reveal.

That, and the watch’s broader philosophical implications: “There’s this really poetic sublevel to it, one that speaks to us as humans: I have something on my wrist, a personal object, that will outlast me,” he says. “It will tick for many more years than my heart will. I can pass it on. It’s a time capsule – something you’d send to another planet to show what humans can do.”

Case Size: 44.4 mm Movement: IWC-manufactured calibre 52640 Power Reserve: Seven Days Price: Upon request

IWC Portugieser Perpetual Calendar 44

For all their dabbling with the eternal, IWC were never going to neglect a complication first patented in wristwatch form by Patek Philippe in 1889 (IWC’s own in-house iteration, consisting of less than 100 arranged parts, was developed in the 1980s by former head watchmaker Kurt Klaus). The four new versions here – two in 18-carat white gold with Horizon Blue and Dune dials, two in 18-carat Armor Gold with Obsidian or Silver Moon dial – have a renewed aesthetic thanks to refined case construction, a slender case ring, and the use of double box-glass sapphire crystals.

Finished with 15 layers of transparent lacquer and polished to a high gloss, the dials emanate tremendous visual depth (more on which below). All new models are powered by the IWC-manufactured caliber 52616 with a Pellaton winding system, and each packs a power reserve of seven days. The provision of an additional century slider – IWC will happily fit it for whomever owns the watch in 2099, meaning it will then display years up to 2499 – is a proud wink to the pieces’ inherent heirloom factor.

Case Size: 42.4 mm Movement: IWC-manufactured hand-wound calibre 81925 Power Reserve: 84 Hours Price: US$46,500 armour gold, $47,500 white gold

IWC Portugieser Hand Wound Tourbillon Day & Night

An anachronistic indulgence modern Tourbillons may well be, but the aesthetics of this new addition to the Portugieser canon could not be more contemporary, thanks to how an 18-carat Armor Gold case interacts visually with an Obsidian lacquered dial, gold-plated hands and gold appliques.

The flying minute tourbillon itself consists of 56 parts and weighs only 0.675 grams (roughly two corn kernels, in case you were wondering). The globe-shaped day and night indicator at 9 o’clock is visible both from the dial and the movement sides of the watch, while the movement’s gold-plated works can be observed through the sapphire case back.

Case Size: 42.4 mm Movement: IWC-manufactured hand-wound calibre 81925 Power Reserve: 84 hours Price: US$79,300

IWC Portugieser Chronograph

A huge amount of R&D has gone into the dial colors in all the new Portugiesers unveiled (Horizon Blue, Obsidian, and Dune, to capture the atmospheres of different times of day and night, in the case of the Chronograph), according to Grainger-Herr. “Dial color is one of the most subjective and difficult sciences out there,” he tells Robb Report.

“Colors are polarizing; colors are tricky; colors are inconsistently perceived. So with the Portugieser we’ve really taken a look at potential longevity and timelessness very carefully, just playing with layers, depth, contrast, subtlety. The difference a champagne color dial what now is ‘Dune’: it’s a huge process. But in the end, it just pops at you. Same with obsidian – I could show you 10 black prototypes on the route to get to this.”

With these three new Chronographs, the beguiling results of all this chromatic experimentation are complemented by a vertical sub-dial arrangement, and an inner flange printed with a quarter-second scale which facilitates high-precision stop-time readings. The Horizon Blue dial version’s blue leather strap is a neat aesthetic sub-plot.

Case Size: 41 mm Movement: IWC-manufactured automatic calibre 69355 Power Reserve: 46 Hours Price: US$8400 steel, $19,200 gold

IWC Portugieser Automatic 42 & 40

The new additions to the Portugieser Automatic 42 and 40 lines – which have a re-engineered case construction and a more slender side profile – are, IWC CEO Grainger-Herr says, a perfect example of designers nailing the “evolution not revolution” approach: a philosophy whereby the horological world ensures a steady, consistent trickle of surprise factor.

“I can see immediately it’s a Portugieser Automatic 42,” he says, “But then you put it right next to its predecessor and look at the case, the lugs, the geometry, the dial print, the graphics, the color scheme, the boldness, the elegance and it’s so different. Side by side, every element has changed. That’s a real skill, from a design perspective. It’s much easier to make a completely different watch.”

Both the ’42 and its slightly smaller sibling have even wider sapphire crystals on the back, showcasing in-house movements with Pellaton winding systems featuring ceramic components.

Case Size: 42.4 mm/40.4mm Movements: IWC-manufactured calibres 52000/82000 Power Reserve: Seven days/60 hours Price: 40 – US$19,500 in white gold, $18,500 in yellow gold; 42 – $13,500 steel, $14,500 steel on bracelet, $26,700 in yellow gold

Jaeger-LeCoultre Duometer Chronograph Moon

The Duometre Chronograph Moon combines two contrasting complications – a speed-tracking chronograph with 1/6-of-a-second readings, plus the slow march of a 29.53-day moon cycle. Jaeger developed a new movement for the piece, caliber 391, and you can see some of it through the partially openworked dial at 5 and 7 o’clock. Jaeger-LeCoultre claims these openings are not just for aesthetic effect, but also make it easier for the watchmakers to assemble the movement. Dual barrels are wound by a single crown: forwards for the mainspring that provides power for the timekeeping function and backwards for the second mainspring that powers the complications. This timepiece is offered in platinum with a copper-colored dial and in pink gold with a silver dial.

Case Size: 42.5 mm x 14.2 mm Case Material: Pink gold; Platinum Power Reserve: 50 hours Straps: Alligator with small scale alligator lining Price: Pink gold, US$70,000 and Platinum, $86,000

Jaeger-LeCoultre Duometre Quantieme Lunaire in Stainless Steel

The Duometre Quantieme Lunaire was introduced in 2007 when the Duometre system debuted. But this is the first time it, or any other Duometre complication, has been offered in stainless steel. Combined with a monotone blue dial that is not, like its predecessor, openworked at 5 and 7 o’clock, this watch casts very different vibe than the original 18k gold model. The steel/blue Quantieme Lunaire sportier, but remains clean and classic, despite conveying a lot of information: two power reserve indicators for each barrel, a fast-moving foudroyante seconds subdial that tracks 1/6 of a second, as well as the hours, minutes, seconds, date and moon phase. A complication like this cased in steel is a collector’s dream, and although it is not a limited edition, demand will be high and quantities likely scarce.

Case Size: 42.5 mm x 13.05 mm Case Material: Steel Power Reserve: 50 hours Straps: Alligator with small scale alligator lining Price: US$44,300

Jaeger-LeCoultre Duometre Heliotourbillon Perpetual

The Duometre Heliotourbillon Perpetual unites Jaeger-LeCoultre’s groundbreaking work in multi-axis tourbillons with the Duometre concept. A triple-axis tourbillon consumes a lot of power, so pairing it with the Duometre’s double power source concept makes perfect horological sense. The tourbillon in the new caliber 388 sets three concentric rotating cages into a dazzling display of watchmaking’s oldest attempt to defy gravity. The first cage is set at a 90-degree angle to the balance wheel, the second at 90 degrees to the first cage, and the third is at 90 degrees to the second cage. The first two cages rotate together every 30 seconds, and the third every 60 seconds. The tourbillon is built with 163 components and weighs 0.7 grams, which tells you three things: the components are very small, tolerances are incredibly tight, and, because the cages are titanium, it’s especially resistant to gravitational forces. For good measure, the caliber 388 also incorporates a perpetual calendar with a large date display, and it still maintains a 50-hour power reserve for both barrels. The caseback puts on a show of its own with sunrayed Geneva stripes (a.k.a. Côtes de Genève soleillées) radiating seamlessly across the entire expanse of the adjacent bridges.

Case Size: 44 mm x 14.7 mm Case Material: Pink Gold Power Reserve: 50 hours Straps: Alligator with small scale alligator lining Prices: US$438,000

Laurent Ferrier Classic Moon

There are brands — Bvlgari comes to mind — that are wildly adept at taking a classical complication and reimagining it for a modern audience by totally revamping its architecture and aesthetic. Then there are brands that simply reissue vintage references in a nearly one-for-one manner. Laurent Ferrier arguably takes the most difficult route: The ex-technical director for Patek Philippe, sometimes-race car driver (he finished 3rd in Le Mans in 1979, just behind Paul Newman) and first-rate watchmaker designs watches that would be intimately familiar to someone time traveling to 2024 from 1954, but that include just enough modern spin to render them utterly fresh. This is not easy to do.

To wit, witness the new Classic Moon. Housed in a 40mm stainless steel or 18K red gold case, it combines an annual calendar with a moon phase complication while adding thoughtful, contemporary touches: Gently curving lugs; a fluted, pebble-like crown; a recessed frame housing the day and month windows; and elongated Roman numerals that mimic batons. This is to say nothing of the moon phase itself: positioned above 6 o’clock, it makes use of aventurine glass, engraved Super-LumiNova, and translucent enamel. Indeed, if there is a more elegant annual calendar/moon phase on the market today — one that isn’t simply a one-for-one copy of some vintage watch — then we certainly haven’t seen it.

Diameter: 40mm Movement: Laurent Ferrier Caliber LF126.02 hand-wound Power Reserve: 80 hours Price: US$75,000 (steel); $80,000 (gold)

Montblanc 1858 Unveiled Minerva Monopusher Chronograph

Montblanc’s watchmaking artistry is on full display in the new 1858 Unveiled Minerva Monopusher Chronograph, but rather than featuring a skeletonized movement, the watch’s new monopusher chronograph Calibre MB M17.26 has been flipped so the display appears on the dial side. That’s not the only detail designed to appeal to devotees of mechanical watchmaking. Five apertures appear in the case band of the new limited edition, allowing light to flood into the hand-finished manually wound movement’s 291 components.

A product of Montblanc’s historic Minerva workshop in Villeret, Switzerland, the timepiece is adorned with the distinctive Minerva arrow and the watchmaker’s signature “V”-shaped bridge. The arrow is a tribute to the Roman Goddess Minerva with her arrow-tipped staff, and the “V” suggests a view of the mountains as seen from Villeret.

Case Size:  43 mm Case Material:  Stainless steel Power Reserve:  50 hours Strap:  Blue interchangeable sfumato calf leather strap with alligator print Price: US$44,000

Montblanc Iced Sea 0 Oxy Deep

How deep can the new Iced Sea 0 Oxygen Deep go? The watch is guaranteed to be water-resistant to approximately 481 bar (about 4,810 meters, or 15,781 feet, the inverse of the height of Mont-Blanc, the mountain for which the brand is named). That’s another way of saying the model is designed for serious explorers of the deep. This overbuilt diver belongs to the maison’s “Zero Oxygen” series, referring to timepieces whose cases have been engineered to ensure the absence of oxygen, thereby eliminating fogging and oxidization under extreme pressure and at extreme temperatures.

The watch’s design amplifies its adventurous message: The blue dial matches the tone of ice found in the ocean, while the caseback features a 3D engraving created in a three-dimensional blue-green relief depicting a view of the sea beneath the ice.

Case Size: 43 mm Case Material:  Titanium Power Reserve:  120 hours Strap:  Interchangeable black rubber strap Price: US$9,100

Montblanc Iced Sea Automatic Date Bronze

In 2022, Montblanc introduced a range of watches called Iced Sea, featuring dials created by a special technique designed to mimic the glacial ice on the Mont-Blanc massif. The collection expands this year with the introduction of a new bronze-toned edition encased in cupro aluminum, a special alloy of aluminum and copper that’s highly resistant to corrosion and rust yet will still obtain a patina over time.

In addition to its new bi-color unidirectional anodized aluminum bezel, the edition boasts a new Montblanc Iced Sea logo inspired by a vintage Minerva export seal, and a 3D engraving of a scuba diver on the bronze-coated titanium caseback.

Case Size:  41 mm Case Material:  Cupro aluminum with a bronze tone Power Reserve:  38 hours Strap:  Black interchangeable rubber strap with brown outline Price: US$3,915

Moser Streamliner Tourbillon Skeleton 40 mm

It is perhaps odd to begin by noting the bracelet on this mechanically piece of high horology, but the bracelet on Moser’s Streamliner is among the very best in the world. It is reptilian yet elegant, brushed yet with mirror polished bevels that shimmer between links, cuff-like in appearance yet sensually comfortable. After all, if a steel integrated bracelet watch costing $86,900 doesn’t offer an exceptional bracelet, well…you get the point.

Despite the dazzling bracelet, it is the skeletonized works that so obviously steals the show here. The caliber HMC 814 uses a bi-directional winding pawl; pawls are clever spring-loaded wedges that latch onto gears in one direction and collapse in the other direction. The flying tourbillon at 6 o’clock rotates once per minute and incorporates an in-house dual hairspring (Moser uniquely makes its own hairsprings). Moser claims the dual hairspring helps to counteract the effects of gravity – which was the original intention of the tourbillon hundreds of years ago – so one migh think of this as an improvement on an improvement. Remarkably, all of this mechanical ingenuity is accomplished with just 167 components. This creates a spacious movement in which the gear train cascades from 2 o’clock down toward 7 o’clock in an arc traced by the curvaceous black skeletonized plates. Gold accents provide a perfect dose of warmth and elegance.

Case size:  40 mm Case material:  Stainless steel Water resistance: 200 meters Bracelet: Stainless steel Movement: HMC 814 self-winding skeletonised tourbillon

Panerai Sumbersible Tourbillon GMT Luna Rossa Experience Edition

If Abraham-Louis Breguet, inventor of the tourbillon, were to get a load of this watch, the poor guy would probably have a heart attack. The Submersible Tourbillon GMT Luna Rossa Experience Edition is a tourbillon-equipped diver, constructed from black Carbotech, water resistant to 300m, and the purchase includes a trip to Barcelona to hang behind-the-scenes at the America’s Cup. (To be fair, at $176,500, the thing should pretty much do my taxes for me, too.) This is not exactly the intended use case for Breguet’s original tourbillon, but that’s what makes this watch so darn cool.

The Submersible collection is where Panerai, a brand whose original remit included making equipment for Italy’s naval forces, parks its modern dive watches. (The Luminor and Radiomir lines, while beautiful, are better suited to everyday wear than modern diving.) This particular Submersible packs quite a wallop: Measuring 45 mm in diameter, it features an incredible, hand-wound movement with not only a 30-minute tourbillon, but also a second time zone, a day/night indicator and a power reserve indicator. Marry all that functionality to a futuristic black/red/white colors scheme, an advanced case material based on carbon fiber, and an incredible, once-in-a-lifetime experience in Barcelona, and you’ve got yourself one heck of a dive watch.

Diameter: 45mm Movement: Panerai Caliber P.2015/T hand-wound Power Reserve: 96 hours Price: US$176,500

Panerai Submersible GMT Luna Rossa Titanio

If you like the idea of proudly sporting Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli colors but want something more complicated than a standard diver and less involved than a tourbillon-equipped watch, then the Submersible GMT Luna Rossa Titanio is just the ticket. Made from titanium and measuring 42mm, this model is smaller and more wearable than its cousins, but it still offers a useful GMT function — perfect for the traveler on the go or parked at a seaside resort.

Equipped with a sun-brushed blue dial, it’s illuminated with Super-LumiNova X2, a new grade of the luminescent material that glows 10 times brighter than previous grades. Powered by the automatic Panerai P.900 movement and paired to a rubber and textile composited strap in red and blue, this is an excellent looking, sporty release that’s sure to get plenty of wrist time amongst the jet set. This boutique-only release drops in September.

Diameter: 44mm Movement: Panerai Caliber P.900/GMT automatic Power Reserve: 96 hours Price: US$12,300

Panerai Submersible QuarantaQuattro Luna Rossa Ti-Ceramitech

In accordance with the norms of today’s watch industry, the new Panerai Submersible QuarantaQuattro Luna Rossa Ti-Ceramitech will likely cause you to forget which watch you walked into the boutique to purchase because its name is so darn long. Let’s break this one down: It’s part of the Submersible line, meaning it’s a hard-wearing dive watch water-resistant to, in this case, 500m. “Quarranta-Quattro” is for 44, its width in mm. (Panerai is an Italian-founded marque, after all.) “Luna Rossa” is for the Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli sailing team, which is set to compete in the America’s Cup in Barcelona later this year. And “Ti-Ceramitech” is for a brand new, high-tech ceramicized titanium that took Panerai seven years to develop and patent.

Unlike the aforementioned Submersible Tourbillon GMT Luna Rossa Experience Edition, the Submersible QuarantaQuattro Luna Rossa Ti-Ceramitech does not contain a tourbillon, a dual-time complication, or a power reserve indicator. However, it does feature a highly legible dial in blue or white with applied, lume-filled indices; a date window at 3 o’clock; running seconds at 9 o’clock; and an oversized, skeletonized sword handset. A Ti-Ceramitech bezel in a unique shade of blue makes tracking bottom time or decompression stops a cinch. (The non-divers, of course, can simply admire its cool color.) Outfitted Panerai’s unique crown protection device and paired to a rubber and textile strap, the Submersible QuarantaQuattro Luna Rossa Ti-Ceramitech is a beautiful watch for skippers and divers — even if its 18-syllable name may take 10 minutes to pronounce.

Diameter: 44mm Movement: Panerai Caliber P.900 automatic Power Reserve: 72 hours Price: US$16,600

Parmigiani Tonda PF Skeleton Platinum Blue

The skeletons are out of the closet this year at Watches & Wonders, and Parmigiani’s Tonda PF Skeleton Platinum Blue is among the most expensive and impressive of them all. Made from high-grade platinum 950 and sporting a deep “Milano” blue skeletonized dial, this watch exudes a commanding presence, but without overstating itself. The caliber PF777 is an in-house works with self-winding rotor made from 187 parts and offering 60 hours of power on tap. Add in the 100 meters of water resistance and a sleek 8.3 mm case height, and it’s easy to see how this watch could serve as an ideal high-end, go-everywhere, do-anything timepiece.

Case size: 40 mm x 8.5 mm Case material: platinum Bracelet: platinum 3-link Water resistance: 100 meters Price: US$125,800

Parmigiani Fleurier Tonda PF Micro-Rotor

Minimalists, this one’s for you. The 2024 edition of the Tonda PF Micro-Rotor, introduced in 2021, lacks a date feature, or any superfluous aesthetic details. “Every element of this timepiece reflects our vision of discreet and timeless refinement,” says CEO Guido Terreni. “From the deliberate absence of visual complications to the meticulous selection of ‘Golden Siena’ dial nuances, each choice is guided by an unwavering commitment to aesthetic purity.”

The watch’s namesake function, the micro-rotor, is a small yet thick oscillating weight in platinum set deeply into the movement. A micro-rotor is very much unlike a classic, large central rotor that sits on top of the works. Appreciated by connoisseurs as a more sophisticated auto-winding construction, the micro-rotor allows for a thinner timepiece — in this case, just 7.8 mm on the wrist.

Case Size:  40 mm Case Material:  Polished and satin-finished stainless steel Power Reserve:  48 hours Strap:  Polished and satin-finished stainless steel bracelet Price: US$25,300

Parmigiani Fleurier Toric Petite Seconde & Chronograph

The minimalst Toric series from Parmigiani Fleurier has always embodied a quiet elegance so often missing from other luxury brands’ catalogs. The Petite Seconde in rose gold or platinum is pure class, and the pale green dial against the bright platinum may be one of the most distinctive colorways of this year’s edition of Watches & Wonders. The Toric Chronograph Rattrapante, or split seconds chrono, uses a high-frequency integrated mechanism crafted entirely from 18-carat rose gold, making it the only such movement we are aware of. If rarity and elegance are your thing, look no further.

Case size:  Petite Seconde, 40.6 mm; Chronograph 42.5 mm Case material: platinum and rose gold Strap: Alligator leather Movement: Petite Seconde uses the caliber PF789 manually wound; chronograph uses PF361 split seocnds in rose gold Price: Toric Petite Seconde (Platinum – $55,900 USD; Rose Gold – $48,400 USD); Toric Chronograph Rattrapante Rose Gold – $145,200 USD

Piaget Altiplano Ultimate Concept Tourbillon 150th Anniversary

A tourbillon is a suspended balance-wheel system that rotates in order to distribute the effects of gravity and improve isochronism. So how did Piaget get a tourbillon into a watch that measures exactly 2 mm thick? Once again pushing the boundaries of thinness, Piaget uses a peripheral tourbillon, meaning that a wheel meshes with the edge of the cage in order to rotate it. Requiring 25% more power than a movement without a tourbillon, Piaget has developed a skeletonized ultra-thin mainspring that stores 40 hours of power while still beating at a modern 28,800 vibrations per hour. As if that weren’t enough to pack into this miniscule case, the Altiplano Ultimate Concept Tourbillon also offers up 20 meters of water resistance. Not exactly a dive watch, but incredibly robust for a 2mm tall watch. A deep blue cobalt alloy contrasts with gold accents for a sophisticated yet sporty visage.

Case Size: 41.5 mm x 2 mm Case Material: Cobalt-infused alloy Strap: Kevlar blend fabric weave Power Reserve: 40 hours Price: On request

Piaget Polo 36 and 42 mm on Rubber Straps

Piaget is celebrating not only its 150th anniversary but also the 45th anniversary of the flagship Polo collection. Festivities began earlier this year with the launch of the weighty, all-gold Polo 79 – with an equally weighty price tag ($73,000). Now Piaget is following up with a duo of Polo Date watches that are more accessible in terms of price, though limited to only 300 pieces each. One is a 42 mm model with a brown strap, and the other is a 36 mm version on a beige rubber strap with a bezel containing 91 brilliant-cut diamonds. Piaget doesn’t specify the gender of the 36 mm piece and is in fact careful to imply its gender-neutrality: “The most precious model can be worn by both women and men, with this versatility being standard practice in the world today.” But the brand also notes that the duo of Polos pays homage to the idea of “his and her” watches, popular in the early ’80s. Yves Piaget, great-grandson of the founder, was fond of the his-&-hers concept and applied it to the Piaget Polo. On both models, rose gold-colored hands brighten the steel case, with the second hand’s counter weight bearing the inscription “150.” This is the first time the 36mm model wears a rubber strap. These watches are available only at Piaget boutiques.

Case Size: 36 mm and 42 mm Case Material: Steel Power Reserve: 40 hours for the 36 mm and 50 hours for the 42 mm Strap: Rubber Price: On request

TAG Heuer Monaco Split-Seconds Chronograph

The legacy of TAG Heuer’s split-seconds chrono dates back over a century. Since the early 1900s, the brand has proven itself as a premier developer of stopwatches and dashboard timers for prestigious institutions like the Olympic Games and Ferrari. Alongside these technical developments, Heuer was responsible for creating one of the most instantly recognizable square watch designs: the Monaco. The year 2024 marks the monumental 55th anniversary of the Monaco, and in celebration TAG has unveiled a watch that’s emblematic of its technical prowess and aesthetic codes. Here, we have the iconic square design rendered in lightweight grade 5 titanium weighing just 85 grams in red and blue colorways. In addition, the new Monaco Split-Seconds Chronograph houses a brand new movement: the TH81-00 mechanical split-seconds chronograph caliber.

Case Size: 41mm Case Material: Red – black DLC fine brushed, sandblasted and polished titanium; blue – fine brushed, sandblasted and polished titanium Movement: TH81-00 mechanical split-seconds chronograph Power Reserve: 65 hours (chrono off) / 55 hours (chrono on) Straps: Hand-stitched calfskin strap embossed with a fabric pattern Price: US$183,000

TAG Heuer Skipper in Rose Gold

One of the most exciting releases of 2023 was the return of the legendary Skipper to TAG Heuer’s catalog. The original debuted in 1968, drawing inspiration from chronographs provided by Heuer for a team competing in the 1967 America’s Cup. The Reference 7754 notably combined a sea-blue dial with two sharply contrasting sub-dials—a 12-hour counter in ‘Intrepid Teal’ and a 15-minute regatta counter divided into three, five–minute segments of different colors: Lagoon Green (inspired by Intrepid’s rigging); Intrepid Teal (the color of her deck) and, for the final five-minute ‘get ready’ sector, Regatta Orange—orange originally being adopted by the sailors because it contrasts with the sea. The Skipper disappeared from Heuer’s lineup in 1983 just ahead of Heuer’s acquisition by Techniques d’Avant Garde (TAG). In 2017, Hodinkee issued a limited edition interpretation to great acclaim. Noting that success, in 2023 TAG Heuer reprised the Skipper in the new Carrera Glassbox design. A year later, we get the Glassbox version in rose gold. Ahoy!

Case Size: 39mm Case Material: 18-karat 5N rose gold Movement: Heuer 02 (Ref. TH20-06) in-house caliber Power Reserve: 80 hours Straps: Blue fabric strap Price: US$23,280

TAG Heuer SN Chronograph

In 2023, the beloved Carrera notched its 60th anniversary, perpetuating decades of TAG Heuer’s noted expertise in chronograph development. The Carrera was the brainchild of the legendary Jack Heuer. Inspired by the famous border-to-border race called the Carrera Panamericana and first launched in 1963, the Carrera has seen many significant iterations over the years. The 7754 SN from the late 1960s served as the inspiration for this new Carrera Chronograph. The 7753 SN—standing for silver and noir—notably featured a panda design with a silver dial and black registers. In addition, the reference was marked by improvements in legibility, from the design of the hour markers and hands to the addition of double stops at 12 so it was clear when the chronograph was zeroed. For the modern interpretation, TAG has adapted these principles into its innovative Glassbox construction, which imitates a vintage crystal but feels entirely modern, too. Notably, this watch includes a stainless steel bracelet for the first time.

Case Size: 39mm Case Material: Stainless steel Movement: In-house chronograph movement Heuer 02 (Ref. TH20-00) Power Reserve: 80-hours Straps: Stainless steel 3-row bracelet Price: US$7,200

TAG Heuer Carrera Date 36mm

We know the Carrera as a sport watch. Yet, more and more, the lines are blurring within the category, and new Carreras are towing the line between retaining their sporty roots and upping the ante on elegance with gems and precious metals. TAG Heuer shows us its approach to this more modernized sport watch with three iterations of the Carrera that bring a sophisticated edge to the collection. The new 36 mm Carrera Date offers highly accessible sizing, reprising the proportions of the original model from 1963. It’s available in both two-tone and stainless steel versions. For the two-tone versions, we get a combination of stainless steel and rose gold with the option of a mother of pearl dial and diamond-set bezel and indices or a salmon-adjacent copper dial that echoes the warm hue of the rose gold. The classic steel variant also gets a mother of pearl dial as well as a diamond-set flange and rose gold hands and indices.

Case Size: 36mm Case Material: Stainless steel or two-tone steel and 5N rose gold Movement: Automatic caliber 7 Power Reserve: 56-hours Straps: Stainless steel or two-tone steel and 5N rose gold bracelet Price: Stainless steel, $5,200; two-tone with copper dial, $5,375; two-tone with mother of pearl dial and diamonds, $7,480

Ulysse Nardin Freak S Nomad

The Freak, released in 2001, was a watch ahead of its time. Doing away with a conventional dial, hands, and crown, The Freak instead proposed a new system built around a one-hour, orbiting carousel containing parts of the automatic movement — a movement that, in a watch-industry first, featured a silicon escapement. Now, Ulysse Nardin is continuing the Freak’s history of innovation with the Freak S Nomad, a sand-colored riff on the famously futuristic watch. Within the 45mm titanium and carbon fiber case sits a dial showing off its unique complication. A diamond guilloché decoration adorns the rotating hour disc, which has received a sand-colored OVT coating. This decoration is painstakingly applied by hand using an 18th-century rose engine over the course of three hours without break, and without the use of electronics or computers. As a result, each of the 99 limited-edition watches is unique.

Diameter: 45mm Movement: Ulysse Nardin Caliber UN-251 Manufacture Power Reserve: 72 hours Price: US$148,300

Vacheron Constantin Traditionelle Chronograph Tourbillon Collection Excellence Platine

Platinum Excellence is a capsule collection, produced occasionally and only in limited editions, always in platinum, including the dial, crown, pushers and buckle. Even the stitches of the leather strap are a mix of silk and platinum. The platinum version of the Chrono Tourbillon, which was first unveiled in 2020 with a movement launched in 2015, is limited to 50 pieces. Vacheron often locates its traditional complications in untraditional positions, and on this model the tourbillon is at 12 o’clock, rather than the usual 6 o’clock position. It’s also a monopoussoir chronograph, with a subtle 45-minute totalizer at 3 o’clock. As you would expect with a premium platinum complication limited edition, the movement is meticulously hand finished, with circular graining, Vacheron’s exceptional plate and bridge chamfering, lush Geneva stripes, hand-beveling of both interior and exterior angles, and mirror polish on the upper tourbillon bridge. Each movement requires 11 hours of hand decoration.

Case Size: 42.5 mm x 11.7 mm Case Material: Platinum Power Reserve: 65 hours Strap: Blue alligator with platinum buckle Price: On request

Vacheron Constantin Overseas Tourbillon Titanium

Vacheron, being a classic watchmaker, has made very few titanium-cased watches. The first titanium cases appeared on two limited-edition Overseas Everest watches in 2021 in honor of ambassador Cory Richards, a photographer and mountaineer (he wore a titanium prototype on a 2019 expedition). In 2022, Vacheron applied titanium to the Overseas Tourbillon in a skeletonized version. This year’s offering cases a new Overseas Tourbillon with a closed dial. The watch is made entirely of titanium, including case, bracelet, bezel and crown, which makes the watch lightweight despite the size (42.5 mm x 10.39 mm). The dial is lacquered in the collection’s signature brilliant blue, and it comes with two extra straps – calfskin or rubber – also in blue. The ingenious quick-release system makes swapping bracelets a breeze. For good measure, the white gold hands and hour makers are highlighted in blue Super-LumiNova. The movement, automatic caliber 2160, has an 80-hour power reserve, using a peripheral rotor made of 22k gold, which can be seen through the sapphire caseback. This is a boutique-only piece.

Case Size: 42.5 mm x 10.39 mm Case Material: Grade 5 titanium Power Reserve: 80 hours Strap: Titanium bracelet, blue calfskin, blue rubber Price: On request

Vacheron Constantin Overseas – Pink Gold, Green Dial

Vacheron Constantin is latching onto the green this year, not just with new olive green straps on its Patrimony collection, but also on the dials of four new models in the Overseas collection. All have lacquered green dials with solid pink gold cases and bracelets. The color combination is a knockout, and a nice change from seeing green dials on only steel or white gold watches. As Vacheron’s style & heritage director Christian Selmoni said in a presentation about the new all-green look, “It could well be that this new color will become as iconic as blue within the collection.” There are three models, one of them in two different sizes: the Chronograph is 42mm; the Dual Time is 41 mm; and the Self-winding with Date comes in a 41 mm men’s model and a 35 mm ladies’ model with a diamond bezel. For added drama, the solid gold bracelet can be removed and replaced with matching green calfskin or rubber straps.

Case Size: Chronograph 42.5 mm; Date 41 mm and 35 mm; Dual Time 41 mm Case Material: Pink gold Power Reserve: Chronograph 52 hours; Dual Time 60 hours; 41 mm Self-winding with Date 60 hours; 35mm Self-winding with Date 40 hours Strap: 18k pink gold with green calfskin and green rubber options Price: On request

Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Manual-Wind

The Patrimony, Vacheron’s flagship dress watch, is shrinking down slightly this year, and collectors with smaller wrists (women) are celebrating. The Patrimony, introduced in 2004, was inspired by Vacheron’s minimalist dress watches of the 1940s and 1950s, and it has always been slim and embellishment-free. The new one is 39 mm, just a millimeter smaller than the next size up, and it is only 7.7 mm thick. It also sports a new dial in sunburst antique silver, and, best of all, two bold new strap colors – azure blue paired with a pink gold case and olive green for the white gold case. These subtle changes transform the Patrimony into one of the best gender neutral watches out there. It’s the perfect size with just the right infusion of color, and the straps are fashion-forward without being strictly feminine. The caseback is closed, as a vintage watch’s would be, and Vacheron leaves it unmarked to make way for personalized engraving.

Case Size: 39 mm x 7.7 mm Case Material: 18k white gold or 18k pink gold Power Reserve: 42 hours Strap: Azure blue or olive green Price: On request

Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Moon Phase Retrograde Date

Last year, this combination of complications was delivered with a salmon dial, and sold out quickly. Now it bears a more neutral shade, the same new sunburst antique silver that appears on the new time-only Patrimony. It comes on an olive green alligator strap as well, paired with an 18k white gold case. The dial is subtle and minimalist, in the Patrimony tradition, with 18k gold pearl minute markers (48 altogether), slim hands and stretched out hash marks on the lower half of the dial.

Case Size: 42.5 mm x 9.7 mm thick Case Material: 18k white gold Power Reserve: 40 hours Strap: Olive green alligator Price: On request

Vacheron Constantin Egerie Concept – The Pleats of Time

This concept watch falls into that rare, whimsical watchmaking genre known as “just because.” It combines haute horlogerie with haute couture and haute parfumerie … yes, perfume. In what has to be a “first” in watchmaking, the Egerie Pleats of Time features a strap fitted with specially developed nano-capsules that release a scent, randomly, as the wearer moves. It’s a collaboration between Vacheron, Paris couture fashion designer Yiqing Yin and French perfumer Dominique Ropion. The dial is lilac-colored mother-of-pearl, carved in a pleated shape like a dress skirt. Shards of mother-of-pearl are woven into the strap alongside the perfume capsules. The bezel and subdial ring for the moon phase are set with diamonds. The watch is concept-only, and not for sale.

Case Size: 37 mm x 10.08 mm Case Material: 18k pink gold Power Reserve: 40 hours Strap: Calfskin with silk thread embroidery and inlaid with mother-of-pearl fragments, encapsulated with perfume. Price: Not for sale

Vacheron Constantin Egerie Moonphase

The Egerie Moon Phase was also designed in collaboration with Yiqing Yin, but this one will actually go into production. It comes with three interchangeable straps in shades developed by the designer: Lilac alligator; night-blue satin-effect calfskin; and powder-pink calfskin. The dial is designed according to a distinctive symmetry: the crown and moon phase align at the one o’clock position, forming a subtle diagonal line that ends with the subdued Vacheron Constantin logo between 7 and 9 o’clock. The index is composed of individually hand-applied fine gold pearls just inside the edge of the pleated mother-of-pearl. The Egerie Moonphase is set with a total of 1.10 carats of diamonds, and limited to 100 pieces.

Case Size: 37 mm x 10.08 mm Case Material: 18k pink gold Power Reserve: 40 hours Strap: Lilac alligator; night-blue satin-effect calfskin; or powder-pink grained calfskin Price: On request

Zenith Defy Extreme Diver

It’s been argued that Zenith’s octagonal Defy sport watches of 1969 were the real genesis of the celebrated integrated bracelet watch. Indeed, the also-octagonal Audemars Piguet Royal Oak didn’t appear until 1972. Origin stories aside, today’s Defy Extreme Diver is an ultra tough titanium diver with an integrated bracelet, or, if you prefer rubber or fabric straps, you can use the quick-change system to swap them out.

The heritage of the Defy diver may date to 1969, but this watch is up-to-the-minute in every way. Aesthetically, this watch is clearly of the 21st-century, and it achieves its vibe though the use of cutting edge materials. The titanium case is not only lightweight, but also exceptionally resistant to corrosion in salt water. The ceramic timing bezel is virtually scratch-proof, and with 600 meters (that’s a hair below 2000 feet for the imperally-oriented among us), as well as a helium escape valve, it’s hard to imagine what any civilian could do to hurt this watch. But the story deepens when we consider the El Primero caliber 3620 SC auto-winding hi-beat movement with date complication. Beating at 36,000 vph, or 5Hz, while still providing 60 hours of power on a full wind, the machine inside is a real runner.

Case size:  42.5 mm Case material : titanium Movement:  El Primero caliber 3620 SC auto-winding with date Bracelet:  quick-change integrated system offering titanium 3-link bracelet as well as rubber and fabric options Price: US$11,300

Zenith Defy Skyline Chronograph

Realistically, it was only a matter of time before Zenith outfitted its newer Defy Skyline collection with a chronograph — and, more importantly, its storied high-beat, automatic chronograph movement, the El Primero. Available in three dial colors, the new Defy Skyline Chronograph will debut in a 42 mm stainless steel case with the collection’s well-known octagonal bezel, a matching integrated stainless steel bracelet (with an additional rubber strap included), and 100m of water resistance. A blue, silver, or black sunray dial houses a triple-register chronograph offering elapsed seconds, minutes, and running seconds, while the central seconds hand zooms around the dial every six seconds ready to stop and mark time withing 1/10th of a second. This feat of precision is possible due to the maison’s El Primero Calibre 36000 movement beating at 5 Hz.

With its 4:30 date window, multiple strap options, and hard-wearing, stainless steel construction, the Defy Skyline Chronograph, despite its good looks, is a serious sports/tool watch. With each new expression, Zenith creeps up to the luxury sports watch classics such as the Royal Oak and Nautilus and seems to tap them on the shoulder. Though at $13,400, this is a much more accessible entrée into the category.

Diameter: 41mm Movement: Zenith El Primero Caliber 36000 automatic Power Reserve: 60 hours Price: US$13,400

Zenith Defy Revival

This fun and funky 37 mm octagonal watch from Zenith harkens straight back to the late 1960s, when Zenith introduced the youthful Defy series. Zenith has been treating us with various iterations of this watch over the past few years, but this may be the most fun the Swiss brand has had yet with the format. Key features here are a rotating timing bezel, boldly legible hands with funky-yet-functional shapes, Zenith’s signature date window at 4:30 and – obviously – the bright orange colorway. Add in the impressive 600 meters of water resistance, the stainless steel bracelet, as well as the in-house Elite caliber 670 auto-winding movement, and this mid-sized retro watch turns out to be a monster of a modern diver in disguise.

Case size:  37 mm Case material:  stainless steel Movement: auto-winding in-house mechanical Elite caliber 670 with date Bracelet: 5-link stainless steel with folding clasp Price: US$7700

This article originally appeared in robbreport.com

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Patek Philippe Brings Back Collector Favourites at Watches & Wonders 2024

Both the Nautilus Chronograph and Aquanaut Travel Time receive a welcome return.

By Josh Bozin 10/04/2024

If you’re a fan of watches, there’s every reason to believe that a Patek Philippe Nautilus, or Patek Philippe Aquanaut—or both—would be high on your list of watch grails. Both collections are of historical significance, helping pave way for the influence—and subsequent choke hold—the steel sports watch category has on the market today.

So, when Patek Philippe lifted the veil of its newest releases at Watches & Wonders in Geneva, it came as a pleasant surprise to see the return of two of the best past iterations of both the Nautilus and Aquanaut collections.

First off, we get a new Nautilus Chronograph, seeing the return of the revered 5980, now with a new case metal in white gold and a new denim texture strap.

Discontinuing all Nautilus 5980 models earlier this year, including the collector-favourite 5980/1AR in Rose Gold, left a sombre feeling among Nautilus fanatics. These celebrated chronographs, renowned for their distinctive porthole-inspired design and air of sporty elegance, present as some of the most sought-after watches in the Patek Philippe catalogue. Thus, the revival of the 5980, now in white gold, is definitely cause for celebration among collectors.

The new white gold variant retains its chronograph function with mono-counter tracking 60-minute and 12-hour counter at 6 o’clock on the dial, but now comes on a new denim-like, hand-stitched fabric strap with a Nautilus fold-over clasp in white gold—some with love it, some won’t.

Powering this new Nautilus Chronograph is the Calibre CH 28‑520 C/522 movement with its flyback chronograph, all of which is visible through its transparent sapphire crystal caseback.  The dial is also incredibly eye-catching, with a beautiful opaline blue-gray dial, accentuated by white gold applied hour markers with white luminescent coating. Priced at approximately $112,000.

Also returning to the fold is the Patek Philippe Aquanaut Travel Time in a gorgeous new bluish hue. After discontinuing the Aquanaut Travel Time 5164A this year, as well—a watch often regarded as the greatest Aquanaut to date—Patek Philippe surprised all with the new 5164G in white gold. Its greatest attribution being the clever Travel Time GMT function, and one that clearly rivals that of the Rolex GMT-Master II as, perhaps, the travel-friendly watch of choice (if acquiring one was that simple, of course).

For those who prefer the sportiness of the Aquanaut, together with its easy-wearing rubber strap, this newest iteration, with its Opaline Blue-gray dial and matching rubber strap with a deployant clasp, is undoubtedly an icon in the making. The new 5164G has a 40mm case and features the Calibre 26‑330 S C FUS movement that can also be viewed via the transparent sapphire crystal caseback.

Expect to pick up the new Aquanaut Travel Time for around $ 95,250.  

Follow @robbreportau for all your Watches & Wonders coverage, and more!

Rolex Kicks Off Watches & Wonders 2024 with a New GMT-Master II

The new stainless steel GMT-Master II has already been dubbed the “Bruce Wayne”.

By Josh Bozin 09/04/2024

It may not be the GMT that watch pundits were speculating on—or that collectors were hoping for—but the new Rolex GMT-Master II with a new grey and black ceramic bezel adds its own dazzle to the revered Rolex collection, which this year celebrates its 70th anniversary.

The idea of a new Rolex GMT launching at the world’s biggest watch fair is definitely cause for a little madness. And while the watch community eagerly awaited what was thought to be the discontinuation of the the highly-sort after GMT “Pepsi”, and the return of the GMT “Coke”, the luxury Swiss watchmaker obviously had other plans when it decided not to succumb to fanfare.

Instead, we’re presented with a piece that, on paper, hasn’t changed a whole bunch to previous GMT releases in years gone by. That’s not to say that this isn’t an impressive release that will speak to consumers—the new GMT-Master II ref.126710GRNR, aptly dubbed the “Bruce Wayne”, is definitely a sight for sore eyes.

This new GMT retains the same dimensions and movement as the other watches in the GMT collection, along with its 40mm size case and option to fit either an Oyster or Jubilee bracelet. The obvious changes, albeit subtle, come in the way of its mostly-monochrome return; a fact that will definitely appease traditionalists. If you’re opposed to the attention-drawing “Pepsi”, “Sprite”, or “Batman” iterations, this model is a stealthier pick—much like its Bruce Wayne pseudonym.

The other noticeable change is the “GMT-Master II” now applied in green text, as well as a 24-hour hand in green; perhaps a nod to the 2007 Basel World GMT release.

All in all, this, like many Rolex timepieces, will generate a great deal of hype and attention, so don’t expect allocations to come easily.

Model: GMT-Master II Reference Number: 126710GRNR

Diameter: 40mm Case Material: Stainless steel Dial Colour: Black Lume: Chromalight on hands and hour markers Water Resistance: 100m Bracelet: Oyster or jubilee

Movement: Caliber 3285 Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, date, GMT Power Reserve: 70 hours Winding: Automatic

Price: $17,150 (Oyster); $17,500 (Jubilee) Availability: Now. Non-limited edition

Moments in Time

Silversea’s Kimberley adventures transport passengers into a different dimension.

By Vince Jackson 09/04/2024

Whoever refuted the theory of time-travel has clearly never set foot in the Kimberley, a geological relic where craggy landscapes forged hundreds of millions of years ago remain untouched, and dinosaur footprints are still etched into the ochre terrain. And while traversing one of the planet’s last great wildernesses in a 4X4 holds rugged appeal, a more refined way to explore the Western Australian outback is by cruise liner.  

Enter the Silver Cloud , one of Silversea’s most luxurious vessels, available for 10- or 17-day expeditions. Upon arrival via private executive transfer, expect a level of intimacy that’s often conspicuous on other cruise experiences. With a maximum of just 200 guests, attended to by 212 staff, the Silver Cloud can lay claim to the greatest passenger-to-crew ratios operating in the Kimberley. Twenty-four-hour butler service is standard for every suite, along with ocean views—no matter if you plump for a modest 22 m² Vista Suite or supersize to a 217 m² Grand Suite.

Yet bigger is not necessarily better on water; the ship itself is compact enough to manoeuvre into isolated coves and waterways that larger vessels—or, indeed, four-wheel-drive Land Cruisers—are unable access. Each sunrise brings the promise of an unforgettable adventure, whether hopping on a Zodiac at Koolama Bay to witness the cascading thunder of the 80-m-high, twin King George Falls, or embarking at Swift Bay to scramble over rocky standstone and view the disparate rock-art forms on display at the sacred Wandjina art galleries—some reckoned to be up to 12,000 years old.

Another example of the Kimberley’s ability to propel you back through time.

Prices from $15,500 pp (10 days) and $23,900 pp (17 days); June 9-19, and August 8-25 or August 25- September 11 respectively; silversea.com

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Kelly Slater’s Hawaiian Hideaway Hits the Market for $30 Million

After seven years of ownership, the legendary surfer is selling his beachfront compound on Oahu’s north shore for $20 million. Published on April 5, 2024

By Wendy Bowman 08/04/2024

The asking price is an impressive $30.3 million—or around $18.2 million more than the 11-time champ dolled out for the beachfront digs seven years ago, back in spring 2017. Acquired largely for personal reasons—he fondly remembers crashing at a nearby house with teen surfing buddies in the 1980s—Slater has long floated the place on the rental market, once for as much as $121,500 per month.

Sited amid a gated parcel spanning just over a half-acre, alongside one of the most sought-after streets in the Haleiwa area, the property was built in the early 2000s, and offers a main home and pair of guesthouses—for a total of six bedrooms and eight baths sprawled across a little more than 706 sqm of Asian- and Hawaiian-infused living space, all with access to 101 feet of secluded shoreline.

Though interior photos are scarce, previous listings show the primary dwelling is showcased by a soaring living room displaying an open-trussed ceiling, a curving hardwood staircase tucked off to the side and glass doors spilling out to a covered lanai. Other highlights include a formal dining room, media room, and kitchen outfitted with natural wood cabinetry and an expansive island. Two bedrooms include an upstairs primary suite, which boasts an ocean-view balcony, a seating nook, walk-in closet, and bath equipped with dual vanities and a soaking tub.

Outdoors, the garden-laced grounds host a boardwalk spanning a pond, along with an infinity pool and hot tub bordered by a grassy lawn; and topping it all off are the aforementioned ancillary accommodations, which consist of a three-bedroom guesthouse with its own kitchen and living area, plus a one-bedroom apartment resting atop the detached three-car garage. There’s plenty of Polynesian artwork left behind by a previous owner that’s reportedly part of the sale, too.

The 52-year-old Florida native, who told WSJ he is wrapping up what may be his final year as a pro surfer, also operates numerous business ventures ranging from a private surfing ranch to a sustainable footwear brand, and coming soon, a skin care and sunblock line.

In addition to his for-sale compound, Slater and his longtime partner Kalani Miller also maintain a primary residence he calls a “small beach shack” on Hawaii ‘s Banzai Pipeline reef break, plus homes in Florida, California and Australia.

The listing is held by Paul Stukin of Deep Blue HI, an affiliate of Christie’s International Real Estate | Southern California.

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Top 10 Biggest Yachts in the World

These are the largest private megayahts that roam the seas.

Azzam (180 meters)

Azzam is now the biggest yacht in the world. It was proudly built by Lurssen Yachts, which has been involved in the building of six out of top ten largest yachts. The specs of this ship are being kept secret. We don’t know who the owner is, but is rumored that it was built for a member of royal family of Abu Dhabi. The propulsion system is an innovative water-jet with two fixed drives and two directional. This system can push the huge yacht to a staggering speed of 31.5 knots.

Eclipse (162.5 meters)

Eclipse is the second largest yacht in the world. It needed five years of planning and construction in the Germans’ yards of Blohm+Voss in Hamburg. Launched in 2010, it held the title of biggest yacht in the world for a while. Eclipse features a diesel-electric propulsion system with rotating Azipod drives. The owner can enjoy his personal 56 meters deck, and alsoa wonderful interior created by the team of Terence Disdale. There is also a 16 meter long swimming pool, the largest on any yacht. The yacht car accommodates no less than three helicopters. The yacht is owned by Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich.

Dubai (162 meters)

We are now in the top 3 largest yachts in the world. Standing proud at number 3 is a Blohm+Voss built yacht. The vast 162 meters yacht was originally commissioned by Prince Jefri of Brunei. The project was halted in 1998 with just a bare hull and partially complete superstructure. It was sold to Dubai government and completed in 2006 by Platinum Yachts. Named Dubai, the vessel is the Royal Yacht of Sheik Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum of Dubai. It can accommodate 24 guests in luxurious conditions. It has an owner suite, five VIP suites and six guests’ suites. The list of facilities is long: swimming pool, barbecue area, cinema, discothèque, helicopter platform, fitness area, garage for a submarine and a vast collection of water toys.

Al Said (155 meters)

Impressive and huge, Al Said is a motoryacht with a lot of secrets. It was built by Lurssen under the codename Sunflower and launched in 2008. It is owned by the Sultan of Oman and sails under Omani flag. Home port is Muscat, Oman. Al Said has a top speed of 25 knots and needs a crew of 150 to operate. The interior design is the work of Espen Oeino and features a concert hall that can accommodate a 50 strong orchestra. 65 guests can travel aboard this impressive ship.

Topaz (147.25 meters)

Topaz was launched in 2012, with the sea trials completed in the month of August, 2012. It is a Lurssen product, being the third largest yacht built by the German yard. Not many things are known about this vessel. It belongs to United Arab Emirates client, although it sails under a Cayman flag. Exterior styling is signed by Tim Heywood, interior design by Terence Disdale.

Prince Abdulaziz (147 meters)

Prince Abdulaziz was commissioned in 1984 to serve as the Royal Yacht for King Fahd of Saudi Arabia. It was later inherited by King Abdullah. The vessel was built by Danish shipyard Helsingor Vaerft. The cost was a reportedly $184m, a huge amount at that time. The interior is designed by David Hicks and has a notable feature. The large lobby on the main deck is said to be designed to mimic that of the Titanic. It also features a fully equipped hospital, a mosque and a cinema. The yacht is manned by a crew of 65. There are also rumors that the ship has systems that include surface-to-air missiles, but this fact is unconfirmed.

El Horriya (145.7 meters)

El Horriya is a different breed of yacht. In fact, it’s a classic vessel, the largest classic yacht in use in the world. It was built in 1865 by Samuda Brothers in the United Kingdom for the Ottoman governor of Egypt, Khedive Ismail, and it was present at the opening ceremony of the Suez Canal in 1869. In 1872 it was lengthened by 12.1 meters and the original paddle wheels propulsion was removed. Since then it has seen a major rebuilt in 1950. In the 70’s the ship was used as a museum, but in 1992 it was made seaworthy again. Today, El Horriya is the Presidential Yacht for the Egypt Republic. It’s rarely used, and it can be seen berthed in the port of Alexandria, where it is maintainedby the Egyptian Navy.

Yas (141 meters)

With only one meter longer than Ocean Victory, Yas is a very special vessel. Launched in November 2011 by Abu Dhabi MAR, Yas was built in Abu Dhabi using the steel hull of a 1978 Dutch-built navy frigate. The old ship was completely modified and new machinery was added, along with new systems and a luxury interior. It is estimated that the 141 meters Yas can accommodate 60 guests and it needs a crew of 56 to operate. The superstructure is manufactured from advanced composites and glass. The odd silhouette was inspired by the shape of a dolphin. For power, Yas uses two MTU diesels and has a top speed of 26 knots.

Ocean Victory (140 meters)

Ocean Victory is the number nine in this top 10 of biggest superyachts in the world. It was built by Muggiano shipyard in Italy, a Ficantieri owned business. It has seven decks and the exterior design is signed by Espen Oeino. The interior is the work of Alberto Pinto and Laura Sessa. Ocean Victory features six pools of up to eight meters in length. It also has dockage capability for a 14 meter tender. The building of Ocean Victory has begun in 2010 and the vessel was launched in 2014.

Al Salamah (139.3 meters)

Al Salamah was built in 1999 by a consortium of Lurssen shipyard in Bremen and HDW in Kiel, Germany. Standing at almost 140 meters (139.3 to be exact), with a beam of 23.5 meters, it can also reach a reported speed of 21.5 knots. Interior and exterior styling is by Terence Disdale Design from London. Al Salamah was owned by Prince Sultan bin Abdul Aziz of Saudi Arabia, son of the late King Fahd, Governor of Riyadh. He is Saudi Arabia’s Defense Minister and the nation’s Crown Prince. Al Salamah was refitted by Lurssen in 2007.

Update: Megayacht Dilbar has also joined the ranks of the top ten biggest pleasure vessels in the world. Standing at 156m long, she enters the top 10 at number 4. Formerly known as Project Omar, megayacht Dilbar is another vessel by Lurssen shipyards.

The top 10 biggest cruise ships in the world

M odern cruise ships continue to grow in size, with the biggest cruise ship, the Icon of the Seas , launching at the start of this year, and her sister ship the Star of the Seas expected to surpass her in size.

Both of these ships are operated by Royal Caribbean International, which operates five of the ten largest cruise ships in the world. Carnival Corporation, arguably the biggest cruise company in the world, features three times on the list through its subsidiaries P&O Cruises and Costa Cruises.

All of the heaviest cruise ships in the world were built within the last 20 years, although the majority – six of the ten – were built within the last five years.

So, here are the top ten biggest cruise ships in the world, by gross tonnage. 

10. P&O Cruises MS Arvia : 185,581 gross tonnes

The MS Arvia is P&O Cruises’ fourth ship to be built by German shipyard Meyer Werft. Weighing in at 185,581 gross tonnes, the 345m (1,130-foot) Arvia is slightly larger than her sister ship, the MS Iona . The 20-deck ship is the largest ship commissioned for the British cruise market and has a maximum passenger capacity of 6,264 passengers, with 1,800 crew onboard. 

The ship is the second liquefied natural gas (LNG)-powered Excellence-class vessel for P&O, following the Iona . Arvia is powered by a 61,760kW LNG drive system, with a propulsion power of 37 megawatts. The LNG-powered propulsion system allows the vessel to sail at a maximum speed of 21.5 knots.

After being floated out in August 2022, the Arvia mainly operates itineraries around the Caribbean or the Mediterranean.

9. Costa Cruises – Costa Smeralda : 185,010 gross tonnes

The Costa Smeralda is the first LNG-powered vessel in the Costa Cruises fleet. With a gross tonnage of 185,010gt, the 20-deck Excellence-class ship measures 337m (1,106 feet) in length. The second LNG-powered cruise ship to enter operation in the world, she has a maximum capacity of 6,554 passengers with 1,646 crew and a service speed of 21.5 knots.

Construction of the Costa Smeralda began at the Meyer shipyard in Turku, Finland, in September 2017. Meyer Turku collaborated with the Meyer Werft Papenburg shipyard to develop and integrate the LNG propulsion plant for the ship. She is fitted with four 16-cylinder, Caterpillar MaK 16VM46DF engines, with 15.4 megawatts (20,710 horsepower) output per engine, resulting in a maximum power of  37 megawatts (50,000 horsepower).

The ship, which was named after the Emerald Coast of Sardinia, entered service in December 2019 , departing Savona on its maiden voyage in the Mediterranean, where it has sailed since.

8. Costa Cruises – Costa Toscana : 186,364 gross tonnes

The Costa Toscana is the sister ship of the Costa Smeralda and is also powered by LNG . measuring 337m (1,106 feet) long and weighing in at 186,364 gross tonnes, the Toscana has a maximum capacity of 6,338 passengers and 1,678 staff across her 20 decks.

Like her sister ship, the Toscana was also built at the Meyer shipyard in Finland, with construction completed in 2021. She is also powered by four MaK-Caterpillar engines, with a total power of 57.2 megawatts (76,706 horsepower), and two ABB Azipod motors , resulting in a service speed of 17 knots.

Named in homage to the Tuscany region of Italy, Costa Toscana mainly sails around the Mediterranean Sea but Costa Cruises has also used the ship to sail itineraries further afield, such as around Brazil and the UAE.

7. MSC Cruises – MSC World Europa : 215,863 gross tonnes

The only entry in the top ten from MSC Cruises, MSC World Europa measures 333m (1,094 feet) in length. With 215,863 gross tonnage, she can house more people than any other ship in the MSC fleet: up to 6,762 passengers across 2,633 cabins spread over 22 decks, in addition to 2,138 crew.

Built by Chantiers de l’Atlantique in Saint-Nazaire, France, the World Europa ’s LNG-power propulsion system was subcontracted to Finland-based Wärtsilä. Five LNG-powered, 14-cylinder Wartsila 46DF dual-fuel engines power the vessel, with a propulsion power of 44 megawatts ( 59,005 horsepower). She also features nitrogen oxide reduction (NOR) units, two Wartsila LNGPac fuel storage and supply systems, seven thrusters, and two fixed-pitch propellers. 

The MSC World Europa was floated out at the end of 2021 and was initially used as an accommodation vessel for fans attending the 2022 FIFA World Cup, with the ship berthed at Doha Port in Qatar during the tournament. Following the competition, the ship subsequently travelled several routes around the UAE, before sailing to the Mediterranean, where it has sailed itineraries since.

6. Royal Caribbean International – Allure of the Seas : 225,282 gross tonnes

The first of many entries on this list operated by Royal Caribbean, Allure of the Seas weighs in at 225,282 gross tonnes. Measuring 362m (1,187 feet), she is only 50mm (2 inches) longer than her sister ship the Oasis of the Seas . The Allure has a maximum capacity of 6,780 passengers and 2,200 crew across 18 decks.

Built at the Turku Shipyard in Finland, the Allure took two years to build , floating out in 2010. She features six Wärtsilä 46 diesel engines with a total power output of 97 megawatts (130,053 horsepower). It is propelled by three electric Azipod azimuth thrusters. The ship can travel at a cruising speed of 22 knots.

With a homeport of Galveston, Texas in the US, the Allure mainly serves itineraries around the Bahamas but she is scheduled to sail routes around the Mediterranean in 2025.

5. Royal Caribbean International – Oasis of the Seas : 226,838 gross tonnes

The oldest ship on this list, the Oasis of the Seas has been in service for over a decade. She was the biggest cruise ship at the time when floated out in 2009, with a gross tonnage of 226,838gt and a length of 360m (1,181 feet). The Oasis has a maximum capacity of 6,699 passengers and 2,181 staff across 18 decks.

The Oasis took two years to build at the Meyer shipyard in Turku, Finland, with the keel laid on 12 November 2007 and the ship arriving at her homeport of Port Everglades in Florida, US, on 13 November 2009.

The Oasis is powered by eight Wärtsilä V12 diesel engines, which generate 5.6 megawatts (7,500 horsepower) each, alongside four bow thrusters. The main propulsion system consists of three 20-megawatt (26,820 horsepower) electric Azipod motors, resulting in a combined propulsion power of 82 megawatts (109,964 horsepower) and a standard cruising speed of 23 knots.

The Oasis mainly operates routes around the Caribbean, but occasionally repositions to offer itineraries in the Mediterranean.

4. Royal Caribbean International – Harmony of the Seas : 226,963 gross tonnes

The third Oasis-class ship built by Royal Caribbean, Harmony of the Seas weighed in bigger than her existing sister ships at launch in 2016, with 226,963 gross tonnage, but she has since been surpassed by newer vessels. With a total length of 362m (1,188 feet), Harmony has a maximum capacity of 6,780 passengers and 2,300 staff across 18 decks.

Royal Caribbean placed an order with STX France for the construction of Harmony of the Seas in December 2012. The first steel for the ship was cut at STX France’s Saint-Nazaire shipyard in September 2013, while the keel-laying ceremony was held in May 2014.

The Harmony is powered by three 18.9-megawatt Wärtsilä 16V46 16-cylinder main generator diesel engines and three Wärtsilä 12V46 12-cylinder engines producing 13.9 megawatts each. The propulsion power is provided by three electric Azipod azimuth thrusters and manoeuvring is assisted by four 5.5-megawatt Wärtsilä CT 3500 tunnel thrusters. The propulsion system results in 82 megawatts (109,964 horsepower) and enables the ship to sail at a standard speed of 23 knots.

Harmony of the Seas embarked on her inaugural seven-night Western Mediterranean cruise from Barcelona, Spain, in June 2016, and currently operates itineraries around the Western Caribbean from her homeport of Galveston, Texas in the US.

3. Royal Caribbean International – Symphony of the Seas : 228,081 gross tonnes

At launch in 2018, the Symphony of the Seas surpassed the Harmony as the biggest cruise ship, weighing in at 228,081 gross tonnes. Measuring 361m (1,185 feet), the Symphony has a maximum capacity of 6,680 passengers and 2,200 staff across 18 decks and was the testing ground for Royal Caribbean's new muster drill . With a total length of 361m (1,185 feet), She is roughly 30 metres (98 feet) longer than the largest military ships , the US Nimitz-class aircraft carriers and the USS Gerald R. Ford .

The keel-laying ceremony for the Symphony of the Seas was held in October 2015 at STX’s Saint-Nazaire shipyard in France, and the ship sailed out in June 2017. She is powered by six diesel sets, each composed of three Wärtsilä 16V46D engines and three Wärtsilä 12V46D engines, as well as three 20-megawatt electric Azipod main engines – resulting in 82 megawatts (109,964 horsepower) of propulsion power and a standard cruising speed of 22 knots.

The Symphony commenced her seven-day maiden voyage from Barcelona in April 2018, and since then has mainly operated itineraries around the Caribbean from her homeports of Miami, New York, and Fort Lauderdale.

2. Royal Caribbean International – Wonder of the Seas : 235,600 gross tonnes

Royal Caribbean's flagship, Wonder of the Seas is the fifth Oasis-class cruise ship built for the cruise company. Weighing in at 235,600 gross tonnes, the Wonder was the largest ship in the world when she was completed in January 2022. Measuring 362m (1,187 feet) in length, the 18-deck Wonder has a maximum capacity of 7,084 guests across its 2,867 staterooms, as well as housing 2,369 crew.

Built by Chantiers de l’Atlantique in Saint-Nazaire, Wonder is powered by two Wärtsilä 16V46D engines and four Wärtsilä 12V46D engines; and uses three 20-megawatt electric Azipod engines for propulsion, combining for a propulsion power of 82 megawatts (109,964 horsepower and a standard cruising speed of 22 knots.

The Wonder sailed her maiden voyage in March 2022 from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and has since served itineraries around the Caribbean from her homeports of Miami and Cape Canaveral.

1. Royal Caribbean International – Icon of the Seas : 248,663 gross tonnes

Weighing 248,663 gross tonnes and measuring 365 metres (1,1967 feet), the Icon of the Seas is the largest cruise ship in the world. Christened on 23 January 2024, the Icon has a maximum capacity of 7,600 passengers and 2,350 crew across 20 decks. She is the lead ship of the new Icon-class, with a sister ship the Star of the Seas due to be delivered in 2025 and another ship planned for delivery in 2026.

Built by Meyer Turku in Finland, the Icon is the first ship in the Royal Caribbean fleet that can be powered by LNG. It uses three Wärtsilä 14V46DF and three Wärtsilä 12V46DF for its main generator engines, which provide 67.5 megawatts of energy to run the ship. She is propelled by three 20-megawatt Azipod thrusters as well as five 4.8-megawatt Wärtsilä WTT-45 CP bow thrusters, with a cruising speed of 22 knots.

After sailing her maiden voyage on 27 January 2024, the Icon now sails year-round itineraries of seven-night trips around the Eastern and Western Caribbean from her homeport of Miami, Florida.

"The top 10 biggest cruise ships in the world" was originally created and published by Ship Technology , a GlobalData owned brand.

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