BoatNews.com

Sailing Yacht A, the world's largest private sailing yacht

Sailing Yacht A

Since 2017, the Sailing Yacht A - a 143 m long sailing and motor superyacht - has been criss-crossing our seas and the Mediterranean in particular. Its owner, a Russian billionaire who made his fortune in finance, had a huge boat built for him. Look, technology, innovation Andreï Melnitchenko did not refuse anything for this 417 million euro boat. Let's go and discover this "incredible" sailboat

Chloé Torterat

The Sailing Yacht A is the largest sailing yacht in the world at 142.81 m long and 24.88 m wide. Designed by Philippe Stark for Russian billionaire Andrei Melnitchenko and his wife Aleksandra, a former Serbo-Croatian model and pop singer in Belgrade, this giant sailing yacht is the second of the name A. In 2004, the oligarch had a 119-metre long motor yacht built worth £240 million (?278 million), which he had already christened "A".

This time he wanted to make it even bigger, but wanted to keep the first letter of the alphabet for the name of his boat. If one could believe that he did it as a tribute to his wife, it is not so. It would only be a matter of ego, since the letter A would allow him to appear first on the maritime registers. At the same time, when you spend 417 million euros to get the biggest sailing superyacht, you can afford every whim.

After a contract signature in 2011 and validation of the specifications, construction will begin at the German Nobiskrug yard in 2015. The yacht is handed over to her owner in May 2017. Its design is much talked about. With her inverted bow, her lines reminiscent of military boats, her polished surface and her portholes well hidden from the outside (from the inside, they are huge and allow an incredible view of the outside contrary to what one might think), the Sailing Yacht is a pleasure or displeasure. It's radical?!

world's largest private sailboat

Inside, as outside, it is excess: the world's tallest masts culminating at a height of 100 m, an 18m2 underwater observation room with three technical glass walls, a sail area of more than 3700 m2, a mahogany, baccarat crystal, skate or alligator skin layout..

We therefore propose you to discover in depth the Sailing Yacht A, with a presentation of the boat , but also key figures, which show all the (dis)measure of the owner's desires.

1 ? Discover the Sailing yacht A, one of the largest sailing yachts in the world

2 ? Photo report: Superyachts A sailing side by side for the first time

3 ? Sailing Yacht A, the figures of immoderation

4 ? Sailing Yacht A, the highest masts in the world

5 ? Sailing Yacht A, the extraordinary figures of the glass and metal superyacht

Sailing Yacht A, the world's largest private sailing yacht

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

world's largest private sailboat

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.

On this page:

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

world's largest private sailboat

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.

world's largest private sailboat

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.

world's largest private sailboat

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.

world's largest private sailboat

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.

Leave a comment

You may also like, how much are luxury yachts (buying & owning 2023).

Luxury yacht options can range from smaller luxury vessels to massive superyachts that boast numerous amenities and state-of-the-art technology. When you're …

world's largest private sailboat

Cost to Rent a Mediterranean Superyacht: Less Than You Think

world's largest private sailboat

Average Cost of Buying & Owning a Yacht in India (with 4 examples)

world's largest private sailboat

Average Cost of Buying & Owning a Yacht in Dubai (2023)

world's largest private sailboat

Who Owns the Yachts On Below Deck? (Valor, Ohana, My Seanna)

Own your first boat within a year on any budget.

A sailboat doesn't have to be expensive if you know what you're doing. If you want to learn how to make your sailing dream reality within a year, leave your email and I'll send you free updates . I don't like spam - I will only send helpful content.

Ready to Own Your First Boat?

Just tell us the best email address to send your tips to:

  • Nautic Shows
  • America’s Cup
  • Classic Yachts
  • Motor Yachts
  • Sailing Yachts
  • Superyachts
  • Yachts News
  • Destinations
  • Yacht Clubs
  • Boat Racing
  • Meta Yachts

Logo

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

manuel hernández lafuente

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

Espen Øino Octopus yacht

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

PIRAEUS - GREECE, JANUARY 27 2016: Al Mirqab Superyacht is one of the largest motor yachts ever built. Anchored at Marina Zeas in Piraeus - Greece.; Shutterstock ID 368381120; Notes: top 20 largest yachts in the world

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 Serene superyacht

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 Crescent superyacht Larry Ellison

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

Savarona superyacht 25 top yachgts

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 superyacht.

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 Rising Sun superyacht

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 Al Salamah gigayacht

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 Project Lightning Yacht Launch

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 Yachts’ 459-foot Ocean Victory Photo by Trevor Coppock / TheYachtPhoto.com

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

Solar is Part of the Top 25 Yachts in the world

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

Superyacht Yas in Barcelona

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 top 25 top superyachts

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 OPUS Launch

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

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

"El Mahrousa" Yacht, 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

IBIZA, BALEARIC ISLANDS, SPAIN - OCTOBER 26, 2016: Prince Abdulaziz, one of the largest motor yachts in the world, moored in harbor on October 26, 2016 in Ibiza, Balearic islands, Spain.; Shutterstock ID 516017752; Notes: top 20 largest yachts in the world

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 Topaz largest yachts in the world

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

Al Saïd 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

Espen Øino Dilbar yacht

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

DUBAI UAE - DEC 16: Dubai - yacht of the Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum the ruler of the Emirate of Dubai. December 16 2014 in Dubai UAE

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

Private white luxury Superyacht Eclipse anchored off the beach. Ibiza, Balearic Islands, Spain. Summer, 05.07.2011; Shutterstock ID 1059530906; Notes: top 20 largest yachts in the world

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

"Fulk Al Salamah," 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 Azzam

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.

  • superyachts

Andrei Dragos

RELATED ARTICLES

Rossinavi launches m/y bel1, making waves with king benji – the 47m superyacht designed for adventures, tankoa’s 230-ft milano superyacht concept: where italian elegance meets sustainability, rossinavi’s no limits brand achieves record sales: first yacht sold just two weeks after announcement, the 24th edition of benetti yachtmaster explores lifestyle and the central role of the captain.

spot_img

Subscribe to our newsletter

To be updated with all the latest news, offers and special announcements.

LATEST ARTICLES

Unleashing potential: emirates team new zealand’s two-boat training session, jimmy spithill addressing controversies at sailgp in lyttelton, editor picks, canadian beau lake introduces the tahoe ’14 and lugano ’14 electric runabouts, underwater adventure and exploration with deepflight’s super falcon 3s, driving performance on land and on water: 41′ amg carbon edition, popular posts, young designer of the year 2022: ioana valentina corcodel reveals 65m ophelia concept, mirabaud sailing video of the century: celebrating 2 decades of passion, superyacht the flying fox seized in the dominican republic, popular category.

  • Regatta 808
  • America's Cup 384
  • Motor Yachts 263
  • Boating 215
  • Superyachts 183
  • Sailing 177
  • Yachts News 174
  • Sailing Yachts 162

Logo

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

Multimillion-dollar mega yachts.

by Emma Treagus Published on February 2, 2024

At Luxe Digital, we independently research, review, and recommend products we love and that we think you will love, too. Learn more about how we curate the best products for you .

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

largest super yachts world y721 aka koru by oceanic - Luxe Digital

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

largest super yachts world serene al mirqab - Luxe Digital

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

largest yachts crescent - Luxe Digital

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

largest yachts savarona - Luxe Digital

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

largest yachts flying fox - Luxe Digital

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

largest yachts rising sun - Luxe Digital

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

largest yachts al salamah - Luxe Digital

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

largest yachts solaris - Luxe Digital

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

largest yachts scheherazade - Luxe Digital

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

largest yachts ocean victory - Luxe Digital

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

largest yachts yas - Luxe Digital

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

largest yachts nord - Luxe Digital

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

largest yachts el mahrousa - Luxe Digital

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

largest yachts ok - Luxe Digital

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 

largest yachts opera - Luxe Digital

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

largest yachts prince abdulaziz - Luxe Digital

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

largest yachts a plus - Luxe Digital

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

largest yachts al said - Luxe Digital

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

largest yachts dilbar - Luxe Digital

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

largest super yachts world blue lurssen - Luxe Digital

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

largest yachts dubai - Luxe Digital

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

largest yachts eclipse - Luxe Digital

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

largest yachts fulk al salamah - Luxe Digital

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

largest yachts azzam - Luxe Digital

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

world's largest private sailboat

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

Oakywood Desk Shelf Review: Raising Your Monitors And Your Standards

Oakywood Desk Shelf Review: Raising Your Monitors And Your Standards

Elevating your desk’s potential.

Eberjey Gisele Pajamas Review: Classic Cocoons Of Comfort

Eberjey Gisele Pajamas Review: Classic Cocoons Of Comfort

The Most Expensive Basquiat Paintings Are Message-Infused Masterpieces

The Most Expensive Basquiat Paintings Are Message-Infused Masterpieces

The Best French Car Brands: From Alpine Trails To Goddesses

The Best French Car Brands: From Alpine Trails To Goddesses

15 Rarest Cars in The World – From Alfa To Zagato

15 Rarest Cars in The World – From Alfa To Zagato

Beyond The Velvet Ropes: London’s Most Exclusive Private Members’ Clubs

Beyond The Velvet Ropes: London’s Most Exclusive Private Members’ Clubs

Luxury Lumber: The Most Expensive Wood In The World

Luxury Lumber: The Most Expensive Wood In The World

Decadent & Diplomatic: The Most Exclusive Private Members’ Clubs In Brussels

Decadent & Diplomatic: The Most Exclusive Private Members’ Clubs In Brussels

Amberjack Boots Review: Part Boot, Part Sneaker, All Comfort

Amberjack Boots Review: Part Boot, Part Sneaker, All Comfort

KAAI Pyramid Review: A Bag That Handles All Our Needs And Desires

KAAI Pyramid Review: A Bag That Handles All Our Needs And Desires

Proudly inspiring millions of readers like you .

Your Conscious,

Elevated Life

Starts Here.

  • Striking superlatives

an image, when javascript is unavailable

  • Motorcycles
  • Car of the Month
  • Destinations
  • Men’s Fashion
  • Watch Collector
  • Art & Collectibles
  • Vacation Homes
  • Celebrity Homes
  • New Construction
  • Home Design
  • Electronics
  • Fine Dining
  • Baja Bay Club
  • Costa Palmas
  • Fairmont Doha
  • Four Seasons Private Residences Dominican Republic at Tropicalia
  • Reynolds Lake Oconee
  • Scott Dunn Travel
  • Wilson Audio
  • 672 Wine Club
  • Sports & Leisure
  • Health & Wellness
  • Best of the Best
  • The Ultimate Gift Guide

This Epic 948-Foot Superyacht Comes With Duplexes and Triplexes That Have Their Own Elevators

Each luxurious abode starts at $8 million., rachel cormack.

Digital Editor

Rachel Cormack's Most Recent Stories

This new 131-foot all-aluminum superyacht lets you take a dip at tip and tail, this 92-foot yacht has a deck big enough for your chopper.

  • This New 131-Foot Catamaran Comes With See-Through Hulls
  • Share This Article

Njord Superyacht

All too often the boldest superyacht concepts don’t actually make it to the water. That’s not the case with Njord , though. The epic 948-footer, which was unveiled by Ocean Residences Development (ORD) last year , could hit the seas within the next four years.

Billed as “world’s largest private residence yacht,” Njord will be built at Meyer Werft with a target delivery of 2025, according to a recent announcement . Throughout its two-century run, the German shipyard has delivered around 50 luxury liners and is adept at constructing vessels of such proportions.

Related Stories

  • Tesla May Need to Worry About Xiaomi’s New 400-Mile EV
  • Someone Finally Made a One-Person Scooter That Drives Like a Tank
  • This Insane Submarine Concept Doubles as a 107-Foot Superyacht

“We are fortunate to have the opportunity to partner with Meyer Werft, a company that has kept its shipbuilding on course for 226 years—that’s seven generations—and which is the world leader in building innovative and complex passenger vessels with a stellar reputation for exceptional quality, precision and on-time deliveries,” ORD’s chief executive Kristian Stensby said in a statement.

Njord Superyacht

The 948-footer is full to the brim with luxury amenities.  Ocean Residences Development

Named after the god of the seas and winds in Norse mythology, Njord is practically a lavish high rise primed for clean, ocean adventures. The vessel will be fitted with 117 exclusive residences with between two and six bedrooms each. The pick of the bunch, however, is the 16 duplexes and triplexes that come complete with their own private elevators. Each abode starts at $8 million depending on the size and the cost of ownership maintenance is 5 percent of the purchase price.

Seafarers will have the full run of the onboard amenities, too, which include multiple outdoor terraces, a sundeck, beach club, two outdoor pools, an indoor hydro pool, wellness facilities, a nightclub, jazz lounge and even an observatory. There are also RIBs, toys and tenders for further fun and exploration.

Njord Superyacht

The vessel with house 117 luxe private condos.  Ocean Residences Development

Njord will embark on journeys all across the globe, from Antarctica to the Mediterranean. Better still, it will do so sustainably. The vessel will be built to the “strictest” environmental regulations to minimize its carbon footprint. It will be equipped with state-of-the-art dual-fuel engines, batteries for hybrid operation, heat recovery systems and advanced power management systems.

Furthermore, Njord will feature a professional oceanographic laboratory that will help the scientific and research community tackle climate change and other pressing issues.

“Our company is proud to embark on building the finest green ship ever built,” added shipyard owner Bernard Meyer. “Meyer Werft’s commitment to ocean conservation is a top priority, the vision of M/Y Njord as a Ship With A Purpose is directly aligned with our company values and commitment to the environment.”

Now show us a high-rise that can do that.

Check out more photos below:

Njord Superyacht

FM Architettura

Njord Superyacht

Rachel Cormack is a digital editor at Robb Report. She cut her teeth writing for HuffPost, Concrete Playground, and several other online publications in Australia, before moving to New York at the…

Read More On:

More marine.

Unica 40 Superyacht

Four Seasons Just Unveiled the First Itineraries for Its Luxury Cruise Ship

Lexus LY680 Luxury Yacht

Lexus Just Unveiled a Speedy New 68-Foot Yacht

magazine cover

Culinary Masters 2024

MAY 17 - 19 Join us for extraordinary meals from the nation’s brightest culinary minds.

Give the Gift of Luxury

Latest Galleries in Marine

Unica 40 Superyacht

Unica 40 in Photos

Wayfinder charter superyacht

8 Fascinating Facts About ‘Wayfinder,’ a 224-Foot Catamaran With a Helipad That Doubles as a Pickleball Court

More from our brands, ciara pumps up proportions in oversize balenciaga blazer with jutted shoulders for voices of beauty summit, washington post story on mulkey unlikely to spark defamation suit, shekhar and kaveri kapur examine fear and the dark side in philosophical cinevesture talk: ‘panic is a huge form of creativity’, christie’s secures sale of $30 m. de la cruz collection, the best exercise mats for working out, according to fitness experts.

Quantcast

Find anything you save across the site in your account

These Are the 5 Biggest Superyachts in the World

By Brett Berk

Rendering of a superyacht sailing along a city coastline

Yachts, as with most other things connected to the ultrarich—apartments, shopping sprees, bank accounts—are getting bigger. And while price, nautically speaking, usually scales with size, that’s not always the case. So there’s, oddly enough, less overlap between this list and our recent list of the  World’s Most Expensive Superyachts than one might expect.

There are reasons behind this. Interestingly, some of the biggest superyachts in the world have become so stunningly large that they can no longer maintain status as belonging to a single family or dynasty. The largest ones have become condominiums or charterable research vessels—playthings for the ultrawealthy.

Still, superyachts offer a kind of privacy that it is nearly impossible to come by on land. Pencil towers have entrances on public streets and elevators with other residents. Even a castle surrounded by a moat is in view, comparatively. A superyacht, on the other hand, is essentially a private island, an oasis. So as long as the rich keep getting richer, the yachts will keep getting bigger. For now, these are the five biggest superyachts in the world.

Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich's the private luxury yacht Eclipse anchors during winter season in Bodrum of Mugla...

5. Eclipse (533 ft)

In 2010, as  Eclipse sailed out of the Hamburg harbor, where it was constructed by notable German shipbuilder Blohm+Voss, it was the world’s largest ship. In the intervening decade or so, it’s slid to the fifth position. Commissioned by Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich—whose ties to Putin have caused him to be sanctioned—it allegedly traded hands last year, though this may be simply a dodge to avoid it being seized. Features of the $600 million Terence Disdale–designed ship include 17 staterooms, a 185-foot deck on the massive primary suite, a gym, a spa, an immense swimming pool, and a half-dozen on-board tenders for shuttling guests in and out of port and excursions. If those don’t suffice, there is also a helicopter pad with room for three choppers.

The Fulk al Salamah yacht of Sultan Qaboos

4. Fulk Al Salamah (538 ft)

Like many superyachts, ownership and much else about Fulk Al Salamah —Ship of Peace—is unclear. It is suspected that it belongs to the Omani royal family, a part of their fleet of extortionately expensive conveyances. Built by Mariotti in Genoa in 2016 and designed by local team Studio de Jorio, it contains a beach club (a swim platform, often with a pool and lounge area), beauty salon, and a sizable helicopter deck, though it’s unclear if this deck has room for more choppers than the Eclipse, despite its additional five feet of overall length.

the United Arab Emirates presidential megayacht Azzam in the Cadiz harbor

3. Azzam (597 ft)

Azzam holds the title of largest privately owned superyacht, a position it has maintained since it was completed at a cost of $600 million by Lürssen Yachts in Lemwerder, Germany, ten years ago. Designed by Nauta of Milan with interiors by French decorator Christophe Leoni, the ship is reportedly owned by a member of the royal family of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed al-Nayah. Prominent features include Empire-style furnishings and interiors, and a pair of massive diesel engines coupled with a pair of gas turbines, allowing high-speed travel and an immense range between refuelings. The Sheikh must be somewhat paranoid—or have good reason to fear attack—because the yacht also includes a high tech security system including a missile system and bulletproof master suite.

Gray superyacht in front of mountains capped with snow

2. REV Ocean (600 ft)

The acronym in this giant yacht’s title stands for Research and Expedition Vessel, and this $350 million ship is outfitted to do just that. Groups that charter it head out to sea and use its state of the art scientific equipment to dive into trenches in its transparent-domed submersibles, arrange whale pod viewings in its helicopters, conduct seabed mapping and coring with its sonar and drilling systems, view documentaries in its 35-person theater, and even listen in on or record the conversations of ocean mammals with its underwater hydrophone. Funded by the Norwegian billionaire Kjell Inge Røkke, designed in Norway by Espen Øino, and built by Norwegian constructor Vard, it is slated to be completed in 2024. Over 100 groups applied for the maiden voyage, with preference given for scientific research and conservation missions—54 scientists can be accommodated onboard. Though it seems that private charters with the proper scientific supervision may also be allowed. Any profits made by chartering are returned to the funder’s One Healthy Ocean initiative.

The World’s 9 Most Beautiful Boarding Schools

By Katherine McLaughlin

Jay-Z and Beyoncé’s Houses: Inside Their Real Estate Portfolio Worth Hundreds of Millions

By Joyce Chen

2024 Solar Eclipse: The 13 Best Places to See the Event

1. Somnio (728ft)

Referred to as the world’s first yacht liner, this floating giant—the name is Latin for dream—combines features of a superyacht, a cruise ship, and a condominium. Under construction by the Norwegian ship-building company Vard, with an expected completion date in the middle of 2024, the $600 million project will feature 39 private residences designed by Winch and Tilberg, both of Sweden. Each will include bespoke features including a gym, kitchen, library, and indoor and outdoor dining areas. Of course, apartments, which start in the eight-figure range, are available by invite only. Both the owners list and the planned route at sea are closely guarded secrets.

17 Small Garden Ideas for Your Tiny Lawn

By Amelia Mularz

50 Privacy Fence Ideas to Stylishly Seclude Your Outdoor Sanctuary

By Zoë Sessums

Boat logo

The global authority in superyachting

  • NEWSLETTERS
  • Yachts Home
  • The Superyacht Directory
  • Yacht Reports
  • Brokerage News
  • The largest yachts in the world
  • The Register
  • Yacht Advice
  • Yacht Design
  • 12m to 24m yachts
  • Monaco Yacht Show
  • Builder Directory
  • Designer Directory
  • Interior Design Directory
  • Naval Architect Directory
  • Yachts for sale home
  • Motor yachts
  • Sailing yachts
  • Explorer yachts
  • Classic yachts
  • Sale Broker Directory
  • Charter Home
  • Yachts for Charter
  • Charter Destinations
  • Charter Broker Directory
  • Destinations Home
  • Mediterranean
  • South Pacific
  • Rest of the World
  • Boat Life Home
  • Owners' Experiences
  • Interiors Suppliers
  • Owners' Club
  • Captains' Club
  • BOAT Showcase
  • Boat Presents
  • Events Home
  • World Superyacht Awards
  • Superyacht Design Festival
  • Design and Innovation Awards
  • Young Designer of the Year Award
  • Artistry and Craft Awards
  • Explorer Yachts Summit
  • Ocean Talks
  • The Ocean Awards
  • BOAT Connect
  • Between the bays
  • Golf Invitational
  • Boat Pro Home
  • Pricing Plan
  • Superyacht Insight
  • Product Features
  • Premium Content
  • Testimonials
  • Global Order Book
  • Tenders & Equipment

The World private residence yacht in Bonifacio

The World: Largest private residential yacht resumes sailing

The 196 metre superyacht The World , which carries the title of the largest privately-owned residential yacht on earth , will recommence sailing in July 2021, it has been announced.

The World is a multi-deck motor yacht which offers 165 luxury residences with an ever-changing view and high-end service. Amenities on board including six different restaurants, sport and fitness facilities, swimming pools, a library and a cinema.

  • Are private residence yachts set to be the next big thing?

In 2020, The World stopped sailing on account of travel restrictions . Now, however, the 150 families with residences on board can return home as a result of its “COVIDSHIELD ” program, which has ensured all residents and crew are fully vaccinated and has introduced new health and safety measures on board to support the wellbeing of its inhabitants.

The World’s chief executive, Pamela Conover, confirmed that, “after more than a year” the superyacht would be “setting sail again.”

“It’s been a difficult 16 months for our residents who have been missing their home at sea. They have been incredibly supportive of the operation while the ship was in warm lay-up and especially of our crew, who are like extended family members. We are all anxious for the ship’s return and are enthusiastically preparing to welcome our residents back home this summer," she said. 

The World will set sail from Piraeus in southern Greece and is set to have a packed sailing schedule over for the rest of the year. She will spend the summer cruising the Mediterranean , visiting Greece’s sun-drenched islands before stopping over in Cyprus, Croatia, Italy, France and Spain to visit the countries’ ancient cities and scenic beaches.

By autumn, The World will close up her Mediterranean season with one last stop in the picturesque port of Funchal in Portugal’s Madeira Islands before beginning a transatlantic crossing to the Caribbean .

Residents on board The World will then spend the latter part of the year taking in the sights of Bermuda, The Bahamas, the British Virgin Islands, the Leeward Islands, the Dominican Republic, and the Cayman Islands.

For the rest of 2021, The World will cruise the coasts of south and central America , discovering the cultures and cuisines of Mexico, Belize, Costa Rica, Panama and Guatemala.

When at sea, The World ’s residents will have plenty to keep themselves entertained on board with an activities program including lectures from Nobel prize winners, scuba diving expeditions, golf and tennis tournaments held on the superyacht’s facilities and spa treatments at The World ’s wellness centre.

Although The World has carried the title of the largest privately-owned residential yacht since first welcoming residents 17 years ago, she is destined to be usurped when 200+ metre Njord is launched in 2024.

  • Interior of Espen Øino-designed 293m "private residence yacht" Njord revealed

More stories

Most popular, from our partners, sponsored listings.

Yacht Bible | The Superyacht and Luxury Yacht Directory

The Stunning Ritz Carlton EVRIMA Yacht

zipper boat

Gliding Across Tokyo’s Sumida River: The Mesmerizing Zipper Boat

0L5A3460xGJH.jpg

CROCUS Yacht: An 48 Meter Beauty by Admiral

phi yacht 3

PHI Yacht – Royal Huisman’s $45 Million Superyacht

  • Zuretti Interior Design
  • Zuretti Interior
  • Zuccon International Project
  • Ziyad al Manaseer
  • Zaniz Interiors. Kutayba Alghanim
  • Yuriy Kosiuk
  • Yuri Milner
  • Yersin Yacht

a3 2

  • Superyachts
  • Most Popular

AZZAM Yacht – The World’s Biggest Superyacht is 180m Long

AZZAM yacht is the largest superyacht in the world, with an impressive length of 179.7 metres (590 ft), making her more than 15 metres longer than FULK AL SALAMAH, which is in second place on the list.

a2 2

AZZAM yacht interior

The interior design of the AZZAM yacht is attributed to the French designer Christophe Leoni who is surprisingly not incredibly experienced in designing superyachts.

While exact details on the interior layout of the massive yacht have not been released to the public, it is known that Sheikh Khalifa requested a lot of wood furniture as well as intricate mother-of-pearl elements to be incorporated into all parts of the yacht.

More than a year’s worth of production of pearls was used in the interior design of AZZAM.

The interior has been described as being inspired by the Empire style reminiscent of the 19th century and incorporates numerous valuable artworks which are on display onboard AZZAM.

She can welcome an estimated 36 guests and over 80 crew members, which is one of the highest numbers in her size category.

The AZZAM yacht reportedly has 18 guest cabins with a massive owner’s suite that spans across several rooms.

According to rumors, the suite was constructed to be bulletproof, and there is a designated missile defense system installed onboard the AZZAM yacht although it is unclear whether this is accurate.

One of her most notable features is her custom-designed golf room which allows guests to practice their swings without even having to step foot outside.

She also has a large gym, a spa, several pools, jacuzzis, and a beauty salon on board.

Her main saloon is supposed to be one of a kind and one of the largest ever constructed on a private yacht. At 29 meters (95 ft) by 18 meters (59 ft), it is larger than a tennis court and offers unobstructed views of the outside due to its floor-to-ceiling windows.

There are no pillars to support the saloon, which gives it an open feel but requires additional ceiling beams and 7-centimeter thick custom-made windows.

A large and fast yacht-like AZZAM is bound to generate a lot of noise when underway.

To ensure a comfortable experience for guests onboard, engineers installed special software which keeps vibrations and engine sounds to a minimum.

This means that the large chandelier in the main saloon doesn’t rattle even when the yacht is underway.

a6 1

Specifications

The AZZAM yacht might be the longest yacht in the world, but she is technically not the largest. DILBAR actually has a higher displacement and weight even though she is more than 23 meters (75 ft) shorter than AZZAM.

This impressive yacht was built by Luerssen in Bremen, Germany, and officially launched in November of 2013.

In March 2014, she briefly returned to Germany for some additional work. She has a 20.8-meter (68.3 ft) beam, a 4.5-meter (14.9 ft) draft, and a total weight of 13,136 tons.

AZZAM is powered by twin gas turbine engines and two additional diesel MTU engines and can carry more than 1 million liters of fuel onboard.

Despite her size, she can reach impressive top speeds of 30 knots which can be attributed to her relatively low draft, although her average cruising speed only lies at 12 knots.

The yacht has several cruising modes, including a sprint setting as well as a long-distance mode.

azzam yacht front view

The exterior of the AZZAM yacht was developed by Nauta Yachts, which specializes in combining practical functions design with aesthetics and sleek yacht design. AZZAM is their largest and probably most well-known project. 

The AZZAM yacht took more than four years, and 4,000 people collectively worked for 6 million hours to complete it.

The exterior is all-white with a streamlined design that is meant to make AZZAM appear smaller than she actually is when seen from further away.

On the bow, a large helipad is available for guests to arrive and depart in style and the yacht carries at least one helicopter at all times.

The aft is reserved for a spacious swimming platform, although AZZAM does not have a beach club in this location like many other vessels of her size category.

As is to be expected for such a high-profile superyacht, AZZAM does not have a lot of open-air deck space and is designed to protect the privacy of its owners.

There are no visible pools or much seating, which suggests that the spacious interior of AZZAM is reserved for entertainment and common spaces.

Total price of US $600 million for the luxury AZZAM yacht.

Her annual running costs of US $50 to 75 million are not surprising, considering she is the largest private yacht in the world.

Azzam Yacht Docking in Gibraltar

Do you have anything to add to this listing?

  • Christophe Leoni
  • Emir of Abu Dhabi
  • Nauta Yachts

Love Yachts? Join us.

Related posts.

viatoris yacht 1

VIATORIS Yacht – Amazing 40m Superyacht

Rising sun Lurssen Camera yacht FV

RISING SUN Yacht – Exceptional $400M Superyacht

black legend yacht

BLACK LEGEND Yacht – Overmarine’s Stunning $25M Superyacht

Roman Abramovich Eclipse Yacht

ECLIPSE Yacht – Epic $600M Superyacht

A look at the most expensive superyachts at the Palm Beach yacht show and their insane features, from basketball courts on deck to ice baths and saunas

  • The Palm Beach International Boat Show kicks off later this week.
  • Eight megayachts are expected to be on display for would-be buyers and charter customers.
  • These are the show's biggest yachts — and how many millions of dollars they are going for.

Insider Today

The Palm Beach International Boat Show — the yacht world's flashiest event stateside — is returning this year with over 800 boats for both deep-pocketed potential owners and window shoppers to peruse.

While it's impossible to know what exactly will be on display until the show begins on Thursday, it's expected that eight megayachts — generally defined as ships over 60 meters long — will be docked at the show and at nearby marinas like the Rybovich Marina in the ritzy Florida town.

Some of these are for sale at eye-popping prices, but others are available to charter in case you fancy living like a billionaire for a week or two this summer (and if you have six figures to spare on a vacation).

These are the eight biggest yachts that will be at the Palm Beach International Boat Show and nearby marinas, in size order.

Nero: 90.1 meters

Price: From $497,000 a week (charter) Standout features: Pizza ovens, beauty salon, massage room, resistance pool

Reportedly owned by Irish billionaire Denis O'Brien, Nero is modeled after J.P. Morgan's 1930s ship , and was built in 2007 and updated in 2021.

She now boasts a gym on her sundeck with multiple cardio machines and a beauty salon, and has an on-board beautician for manicure, pedicure, hair, and massage needs. There's also an upgraded movie theater, two new pizza ovens, and both a pool and a jacuzzi.

For those who want to go overboard, she has more than a dozen toys, including a waterslide, Jet Ski, and flyboard.

Victorious: 85 meters

Price: From $876,600 a week in the summer and $950,000 a week in the winter Standout features: Hammam (Turkish bath), wine cellar, wood-burning fireplace, children's playroom

Victorious brings a party vibe to the yacht show. With a beach club on board, a wine cellar, a cigar clubroom , multiple bars, and a lounge with a piano, the vessel is made for entertaining. Plus, there's a playroom and movie theater to entertain the kids.

For tamer charter clients, Victorious has a suite of wellness features such as a gym, massage room, beauty salon and hammam — perhaps a custom request of her owner, Turkish businessman Vural Ak.

She also boasts a treasure trove of water toys, including Jet Skis, jetsurfs, inflatable kayaks, and scuba equipment.

Casino Royale: 72 meters

Price: TBD Special Features: Infinity pool, helipad, private jacuzzi

Purchased and refitted by car dealer magnate John Staluppi last year, Casino Royale is the latest of his James Bond-inspired yachts (he's also owned an Octopussy and a Skyfall, among others).

Casino Royale has a helipad that turns into a dancefloor, an infinity pool, and a wellness center with a gym and sauna. The owner's cabin has its own deck, which features a private bar and jacuzzi.

Related stories

However, the boat's price isn't listed, and while she's not necessarily officially for sale, that might change depending on who's prepared to buy, Mr. Bond.

Talisman C: 70.6 meters

Price: $60 million (or from $567,000 a week to charter) Special features: Massage and beauty room, private library

Likely the largest yacht for sale (not just charter) at the show, the Talisman C is a 2011 six-bedroom boat. The owner's cabin comes with an en suite bathroom, dressing room, private library, and crystal chandeliers.

Amenities include a gym, a beauty room, oversized jacuzzi, and a fully equipped bar. Her crew of 19 includes a trained masseuse, and the toy room comes equipped with a wakeboard, eFoil , and WaveRunners.

Joy: 70 meters

Price: From $650,000 a week Special features: Disco club, basketball court, onboard fitness instructor

Superyacht Joy testifies to the fact that owners want as many on-board experiences as they can get.

There's an expansive suite of fitness features, including a basketball court (don't shoot that hoop too hard!), a personal trainer on staff, boxing equipment, and a handful of machines. For post-workout winddowns, there's a spa with a steam room and onboard masseuse. And for entertainment, there's both an outdoor and indoor cinema, and a disco club.

Triumph: 65.4 meters

Price: From $707,600 a week in the summer and $650,000 a week in the winter Special features: Sauna, helipad, banana boat

This 2021 superyacht is named after Triumph motorcycles — a reported favorite of her rumored owner, British businessman Chris Dawson — and even has one on display as an art piece in the upper deck's lounge. The primary suite is 1,400 square feet and has its own study , and there's a sauna, an indoor-outdoor gym, a helipad, and a massage room spread among her six decks.

She boasts an "armada of water toys," including two kinds of Jet Skis, electric water bikes, and a banana boat.

Seanna: 64.5 meters

Price: $54,000,000 (or from $462,000 a week to charter) Special features: marble foyer, movie room, sundeck pool

The recently refurbished Seanna is available for sale and charter.

Her indoor-outdoor gym is on sea level so that passengers can take a dip after a session with the onboard personal trainer. There's also a sundeck pool, a helipad, a two-room massage facility, and, for the more cerebral guests, a library with an electric fireplace.

There are a number of toys on board, including a popular water trampoline and two WaveRunners.

Come Together: 60 meters

Price: $65,000,000 Special Features: DJ and videographer on board, ice bath, sauna

Next-to-new yacht Come Together is looking for a new owner after doing charters during the 2023 season.

The Beatles' influence is evident beyond the yacht's name, with guitars dotting the sky lounge and a crewmember who doubles as a DJ. There's also an outdoor cinema and bar for entertainment and an ice bath and sauna for the day after the party. The owner's suite has a private study and lounge, and each guest cabin has its own ensuite.

The sale includes a number of toys, like Jet Skis, kayaks, and Seabobs.

Watch: Inside the world's biggest cruise ship that just set sail

world's largest private sailboat

  • Main content

Baltimore bridge collapse: What happened and what is the death toll?

What is the death toll so far, when did the baltimore bridge collapse, why did the bridge collapse, who will pay for the damage and how much will the bridge cost.

NTSB investigators work on the cargo vessel Dali, which struck and collapsed the Francis Scott Key Bridge, in Baltimore

HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE TO REBUILD THE BRIDGE?

What ship hit the baltimore bridge, what do we know about the bridge that collapsed.

The 1.6-mile (2.57 km) long Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, Maryland collapsed into the water overnight after a cargo ship collided with it on March 26.

HOW WILL THE BRIDGE COLLAPSE IMPACT THE BALTIMORE PORT?

Reuters Graphics Reuters Graphics

Get weekly news and analysis on the U.S. elections and how it matters to the world with the newsletter On the Campaign Trail. Sign up here.

Writing by Lisa Shumaker; Editing by Daniel Wallis and Bill Berkrot

Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles. , opens new tab

world's largest private sailboat

Thomson Reuters

Lisa's journalism career spans two decades, and she currently serves as the Americas Day Editor for the Global News Desk. She played a pivotal role in tracking the COVID pandemic and leading initiatives in speed, headline writing and multimedia. She has worked closely with the finance and company news teams on major stories, such as the departures of Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey and Amazon’s Jeff Bezos and significant developments at Apple, Alphabet, Facebook and Tesla. Her dedication and hard work have been recognized with the 2010 Desk Editor of the Year award and a Journalist of the Year nomination in 2020. Lisa is passionate about visual and long-form storytelling. She holds a degree in both psychology and journalism from Penn State University.

Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse in Baltimore

Philippines boosts maritime security as China tension rises

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr has ordered his government to strengthen its coordination on maritime security to confront "a range of serious challenges" to territorial integrity and peace, as a dispute with China escalates.

Easter Mass at St. Peter's Square, at the Vatican

Simple Flying

Queen of the skies: what is the biggest private jet.

The largest known private jets are Boeing 747-8s (although it is possible the largest could be an Airbus A380).

  • The Airbus A380 could be the largest if privately owned
  • The Boeing 747-8 is the largest private jet known
  • The Sultan of Brunei owns one of the most expensive private jets

The world's largest commercial jets are used as private jets, but it is often difficult to know exactly what assets the mega-rich possess. Details about their wealth are often opaque, and establishing ownership can be complicated by holding assets in self-companies or trusts. These are also reasons why it can be difficult to know what the most expensive private jets are in the world . The list of the largest private jets in the world is constantly changing and is likely incomplete, but here are some of the known giant private jets.

An Airbus A380?

If anyone in the world privately owns an operational Airbus A380 , then that will automatically be the largest private jet in the world (after all, it is the largest flying jet in the world). For a while, it seemed the largest (known) private jet in the world was to be a luxuriously appointed Airbus A380 purchased by Prince Al Waleed bin Talal bin Abdulaziz Alsaud of Saudi Arabia . However, the A380 was sold off before the prince received it.

Learn more about buying the used A380 for $25 million

No Airbus A380 is known to have been purchased by a billionaire as a luxury private jet. But that is not to say it hasn't happened. Airlines worldwide are now starting to retire their A380 fleets - so it is possible to purchase an old A380 somewhat cheaply. As of March 2024, a retired A380 with the registration number N380D is listed on Controller for "only" $25 million (built-in 2013). For comparison, new, custom-ordered A380s or Boeing 747s cost $200-500 million.

Lavish: Check Out The Boeing 747 That Flies Players In Saudi Pro League's Al Hilal

Three boeing 747's known to be private jets, joseph lau's boeing 747-8vip.

In place of an Airbus A380 being used as a private jet, the largest known private jet is the Boeing 747. More than one Jumbo is known to be owned by billionaires as a luxury private jet. One of these billionaires was Hong Kong real estate tycoon Joseph Lau. He is known to have purchased a custom Boeing 747-8VIP - however, Reuters reported in 2007 that he had become the first to purchase the (smaller) Boeing 787 Dreamliner (in a deal thought to be worth $367 million). Boeing Business Jets offers the 787-8 Dreamliner in a luxury business jet variant. As of March 2024, it is unclear if Joseph Lau is still flying his old Boeing 747-8VIP.

Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah's Boeing 747-8VIP

Hassanal Bolkiah is the Sultan of Brunei (a tiny oil-rich country nested on the northern coast of the island of Borneo). He is one of the few absolute monarchs in the world and is regarded as one of the richest men alive (with a net worth of $30 billion, according to Celebrity Net Worth ). He is known to possess a 747-400 presidential plane.

Reuters reported he piloted it personally to meet President Barack Obama in 2013. The aircraft's registration is V8-ALI, valued at $230 million. Since then, the Sultan has upgraded to a newer (and larger) Boeing 747-8VIP registered as V8-BKH, and that aircraft is considered one of the most expensive private jets in the world .

Prince Al Waleed's Boeing 747-400

In 2023, famous Nigerian soccer player Odion Ighalo, showed off Prince Al Waleed's private Boeing 747-400 on social media after the Saudi prince had flown the team in his private jet. The Boeing 747 was purchased second-hand by the prince in 2003 from Air China (which had taken delivery in 1992).

Odion Ighalo revealed the lavish interior of the Jumbo jet and how it had been elaborately decorated for the Saudi prince. Al Waleed purchased the jet for an estimated $220 million, then spent millions more customizing it. He was famously going to buy the Airbus A380 before selling the aircraft off.

The Boeing 747-8 Vs 747-400 - What's The Difference?

Boeing 747-8: the largest private jet.

The Boeing 747-8 is the updated model of the popular 747-400, and while they both look similar, the 747-8 is slightly larger. Overall, the 747-8 has an additional 11.5-foot wingspan and is over 18 feet longer - plus the 747-8 upper deck is expanded. The Boeing 747-8 was the last of the 747 family (its first flight took place in 2010) and the future Air Force One aircraft will be heavily customized 747-8s. It can accommodate 66 seats more than its predecessors, according to Boeing .

The Boeing 747-8 marks the end of the road for the Boeing 747 family. Discounting the twin upcoming Presidential Air Force One jets, the final Jumbo (a cargo variant) was delivered to Atlas Air on January 31, 2023. In all, 155 Boeing 747-8s were made - 107 freighter variants and 48 passenger airliners.

6 Construction Workers Presumed Dead. Baltimore Bridge Collapse: What to Know

S ix remaining missing people after a large cargo ship crashed into the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore on Tuesday morning were presumed dead by authorities by evening after rescue efforts found only two of the people who fell into the water.

All six unaccounted for victims were identified as construction workers who were on the bridge when it collapsed, the Baltimore Banner reported . At least two were Guatemalan nationals, the country’s foreign ministry said . Three Mexican nationals were also on the bridge at the time of collapse, the Mexican Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed on Wednesday. Two remain missing, while one was rescued. The governments of El Salvador and Honduras also confirmed that their citizens were among the missing, according to the Associated Press .

“Based on the length of time that we’ve gone in the search, the extensive search efforts that we put into it, the water temperature, that at this point, we do not believe that we’re going to find any of these individuals still alive,” U.S. Coast Guard Rear Admiral Shannon Gilreath said in a press conference around 7:30 p.m. local time.

Maryland Secretary of State Police Col. Roland Butler said at the same press conference that authorities have since transitioned away from search and rescue operations to recovery operations. Surface ships have been deployed overnight with divers set to be deployed at 6:00 a.m. Wednesday to “begin a more detailed search to do our very best to recover those six missing people.”

James Wallace, chief of Baltimore’s fire department, said in a press conference that “upwards of seven individuals” fell into the water after the Dali shipping container vessel crashed into the Francis Scott Key Bridge at 1:30 a.m. local time. The director of communications for Baltimore’s fire department, Kevin Cartwright, called it a “developing mass casualty event.”

During an earlier press conference, Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott described the event as “an unthinkable tragedy.” He added: “We have to first and foremost pray for all of those who are impacted, those families, and pray for our first responders and thank them.”

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore said Tuesday that he’s authorized the deployment “everything from air, land, and sea resources” to ensure the search and rescue operation is “carried out to its fullest intent.” He also noted that there’s “a long road” ahead as the city rebuilds.

“The path to normalcy will not be easy,” said United States Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg during a separate Tuesday press conference. “It will not be quick. It will not be inexpensive, but we will rebuild together in order to make sure that happens.”

He noted that federal agencies are working to address roadway concerns and supply chain impacts. “In many ways, our work is just beginning.”

Here’s what to know about the incident.

What happened?

The Singapore-flagged 948 ft. Dali vessel crashed into a column supporting the Francis Scott Key Bridge at around 1:30 a.m. local time in Baltimore, causing part of the bridge to collapse and catch fire before sinking.

At around 1:40 a.m., the Baltimore City Fire Department received an emergency services call to respond to a water rescue in the Patapsco River, according to fire chief Wallace.

Moore said in a press conference at 10:00 AM EST that preliminary investigations haven’t found “any credible evidence of a terrorist attack.” Baltimore Police said there was no evidence that the collision was intentional.

The ship’s crew issued a “mayday” call shortly before the crash that allowed authorities to stop vehicles from going on the bridge.

The steel frame of the Francis Scott Key Bridge sits on top of the container ship Dali after the bridge collapsed, in Baltimore, on March 26, 2024.

“We’re thankful that between the ‘mayday’ and collapse … that we had officials who were able to begin [to] stop the flow of traffic so more cars were not up on the bridge,” Moore said .

Several vehicles were on the bridge at the time of impact. At least seven people are believed to have fallen in the water. The Synergy Marine Group, which manages the Dali, has confirmed that all crew members, including its two pilots, are accounted for and unharmed, Reuters reported .

At least 10 commercial ships en route to Baltimore port dropped anchors nearby in the wake of the collision, according to Reuters , which cited tracking and maritime analytics provider MarineTraffic. All lanes remain closed in both directions on I-695 Key Bridge following the incident.

What does the video show?

Footage of the crash was originally shared by Streamtime Live but has since been widely reshared on social media platforms.

BREAKING: Ship collides with Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, causing it to collapse pic.twitter.com/OcOrSjOCRn — BNO News (@BNONews) March 26, 2024

The clip shows fragments of the bridge falling into the Patapsco River, with some parts half submerged in the water and half emerging from it. Vehicles can also be seen falling from the structure.

Longer footage shared on social media showed what appeared to be losses of power on the freighter before it rammed into the bridge.

Recovery operations

Moore issued a statement Tuesday morning declaring a state of emergency and said he is working with an interagency team to deploy resources from the Biden Administration. “We are thankful for the brave men and women who are carrying out efforts to rescue those involved and pray for everyone’s safety,” Moore said .

“The U.S. Coast Guard is conducting search and rescue for those who remain unaccounted for as a result of the bridge collapse,” the White House said in a statement. “Senior White House officials are in touch with the governor and mayor to offer any federal assistance they need.”

Sonar and infrared technology, as well as underwater unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), have been deployed for search and rescue operations. Wallace, the Baltimore fire chief, added that the tides and darkness of the early hours had slowed rescue efforts down.

Few personal details are known about the two who were rescued so far. “One individual refused service and refused transport, essentially that person was not injured,” Wallace said. “However, there was another individual, that’s been transported to a local trauma center, that is in a very serious condition.”

Maryland Transportation Secretary Paul J. Wiedefeld speaks at a press conference about the collapse of the Key Bridge and the rescue operation underway on March 26, 2024 in Baltimore.

President Joe Biden addressed the collapse at the White House on Tuesday afternoon, saying that, though the search and rescue operation is the highest priority at the moment, the federal government will support the city of Baltimore for “as long as it takes” to recover.

“It’s my intention that the federal government will pay for the entire cost of reconstructing that bridge,” Biden said. “I expect the Congress to support my effort.”

What do we know about the Francis Scott Key Bridge?

Opened in 1977, the Francis Scott Key bridge is named after the writer of The Star-Spangled Banner . In 1814, Francis Scott Key wrote the national anthem upon witnessing the British defeat in the Battle of Baltimore.

The bridge—which cost an estimated $110 million to build—is the outermost of three toll crossings on Baltimore’s Harbor. The four-lane bridge is 1.6 miles long and crosses over the Patapsco River.

The bridge carries over 11 million vehicles per year and 35,000 commuters per day, and is pivotal for East Coast shipping.

“This is no ordinary bridge,” Buttigieg said. “This is one of the cathedrals of American infrastructure. It has been part of the skyline of this region for longer than many of us have been alive.”

What do we know about the vessel?

The Dali vessel, which was chartered by shipping company Maersk, was headed for Colombo, Sri Lanka, and carrying cargo from the company. The vessel sustained damage, a fire department official told CNBC. The cause of the crash has yet to be determined by the firm.

The vessel was previously involved in a 2016 collision in Antwerp, Belgium, according to VesselFinder . While there were no casualties from the 2016 incident, the vessel’s bow scraped the quay and damaged parts of the hull.

National Transportation Safety Board Chair Jennifer Homendy said Tuesday afternoon the agency is “standing back” to allow search and rescue to take place, but has a team of experts in nautical operations, human performance, and engineering ready to investigate the ship’s operations and safety records to better understand what caused the crash.

Dali is owned by Singapore-based Grace Ocean Private Ltd. and managed by Synergy Marine Group. Synergy Marine Group, in a statement published Wednesday, confirmed the safety of their crew and offered their sympathies to victims of the tragedy. “Our thoughts are with them as we coordinate closely with the authorities to manage the incident’s aftermath, including environmental impact assessments.”

What have experts said?

“The first thing that springs to my mind is: was there a sudden fault with the ship’s engines or the steering gear? The other, of course, is: was there a navigational error?” David McFarlane, director of Maritime Risk and Safety Consultants Ltd, told Sky News .

He said that a one-person human error appears to be a less likely cause due to the number of staff on duty that could take over in an emergency. “The most likely cause of this is a failure in machinery or steering gear, but we just won’t know until the authorities have been on board,” McFarlane added.

Toby Mottram, Emeritus Professor at the University of Warwick and Structural Engineer, said in an analysis shared by the University of Warwick, that the moment of impact would have been intensified by the momentum of such a massive cargo vessel which was carrying goods.

“Despite meeting regulatory design and safety standards of the 1970s, the Baltimore Key Bridge may not have been equipped to handle the scale of ship movements seen today. However, modern navigation technologies should have prevented the ship from striking the pier,” Mottram said.

—Chad de Guzman in Singapore contributed reporting.

Correction, March 26 The original version of this story misstated the year when Francis Scott Key wrote “The Star-Spangled Banner.” It was 1814, not 1914.

More Must-Reads From TIME

  • Jane Fonda Champions Climate Action for Every Generation
  • Biden’s Campaign Is In Trouble. Will the Turnaround Plan Work?
  • Why We're Spending So Much Money Now
  • The Financial Influencers Women Actually Want to Listen To
  • Breaker Sunny Choi Is Heading to Paris
  • Why TV Can’t Stop Making Silly Shows About Lady Journalists
  • The Case for Wearing Shoes in the House
  • Want Weekly Recs on What to Watch, Read, and More? Sign Up for Worth Your Time

Write to Armani Syed at [email protected] and Simmone Shah at [email protected]

You May Also Like

COMMENTS

  1. Largest Sailing Yachts In The World

    The 282-foot long yacht is one of the world's largest private sailing ketches and has a mast that is 299 feet high. (Photo by Phil Walter/Getty Images) A collaboration between Vitters Shipyard and Oceanco resulted in Aquijo, the world's largest high-performance ketch. The project started in 2010 but was only launched in 2016.

  2. Top 10 largest sailing yachts in the world

    The list of the top ten largest sailing yachts in the world is not easily disrupted. In fact, it had remained unchanged since the launch of the 106.7-metre Oceanco Black Pearl in 2018, which swiped the top spot from Lürssen's 93-metre Eos.For four years, Black Pearl remained the largest yacht in the world until early in 2023 when Oceanco sent a new flagship down the slipway, the mighty 127 ...

  3. The top 25 largest yachts in the world

    Read on to discover our official list of the largest, privately owned yachts in the world. 1. Azzam | 180.6m. In October 2013, Lürssen delivered the largest privately owned superyacht in the world in the form Azzam. Originally, she was designed to be 145 metres, but in the process of optimisation grew to 180 metres.

  4. Hemisphere (yacht)

    Hemisphere (yacht) Hemisphere is the largest sailing catamaran (two hulls) and the largest sailing private yacht catamaran in the World since 2011. [1] [2] She is 145 feet (44 m) long and built by boat builder Pendennis (UK). [1] The vessel has won five different industry awards, including for the interior finishing. [1]

  5. The 25 Largest Yachts in the World Right Now

    Lürssen Yachts. As we round 2023, 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 ...

  6. Sailing Yacht A, the world's largest private sailing yacht

    The Sailing Yacht A is the largest sailing yacht in the world at 142.81 m long and 24.88 m wide. Designed by Philippe Stark for Russian billionaire Andrei Melnitchenko and his wife Aleksandra, a former Serbo-Croatian model and pop singer in Belgrade, this giant sailing yacht is the second of the name A. In 2004, the oligarch had a 119-metre ...

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

    Summary. 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.

  8. SAILING YACHT A • World's Largest Sailing Yacht • $600M

    The Sailing Yacht A, initially known as Project 787 'White Pearl,' was delivered by Nobiskrug to her owner, Andrey Melnichenko, in 2017. As the world's largest sailing yacht, she measures an impressive 143 meters (469 ft) in length with a beam of 25 meters (82 ft). Featuring eight decks, SY A can accommodate 20 guests and a crew of 20.

  9. Top 25 largest yachts in the world

    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.

  10. 26 Largest Yachts In The World (Updated Ranking)

    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.

  11. M5: The largest single-masted sailing yacht in the world

    At 75 metres, Rod Lewis initially dismissed Mirabella V (now M5) as too much boat. A dozen years ago, the Texan owner was looking to build a composite sailing yacht of around 60 metres and had been developing ideas with naval architect Ron Holland. As Lewis had already chartered 64-metre Felicita West, Holland suggested he refine his wish list ...

  12. The World: A look inside the largest private residence yacht

    On board the world's largest private residence yacht. The largest private residence yacht on the water - 196 metre superyacht The World - has welcomed back residents on board and will resume her extensive sailing program after more than a year in July 2021. We take a look inside her interiors to reveal the luxury apartments and facilities on ...

  13. The World

    The World is the planet's largest private residential yacht - the only ship of its kind currently in operation - sailing a continuous itinerary across every ocean and continent. Aboard this truly unique Ship are amenities that exceed even the highest standards of luxury travel.

  14. 10 Largest Private Yachts In The World

    Country of Origin: Germany. Builder: Lurssen. Source: Wikimedia. With the delivery of Azzam in October 2013, Lürssen established itself as the world's largest private yacht builder. The initial plan called for her to be 145 meters in length, but while she was being optimized, her length increased to 180 meters.

  15. Meet 'Njord,' the World's Largest Private Residence Superyacht

    Billed as "world's largest private residence yacht," the 948-foot Njord will feature 117 private condos and is expected to launch in 2025.

  16. 10 of the world's biggest superyachts

    When Eclipse was launched at the Blohm + Voss Hamburg shipyard back in 2010, it was the world's largest private yacht. But the 162.5-meter vessel was eclipsed by Azzam a few years later, while ...

  17. Jeff Bezos' $500 Million Yacht: A Look at the World's Largest Private

    Jeff Bezos, the founder of Amazon, is known for his extravagant lifestyle and love for luxury yachts. In April 2023, Bezos took delivery of his newest and largest yacht, Koru, which cost a staggering $500 million or more. At 417 feet, Koru is the world's largest sailing yacht, surpassing the previous record holder, the 106-meter Black Pearl.

  18. List of motor yachts by length

    List of motor yachts by length. M/Y Azzam, seen here in Cadiz, Spain, during the summer of 2020, is the world's longest luxury yacht. This list of motor yachts by length, is a table of the world's longest active superyachts, with an overall length of at least 75 metres (246 ft) and up. These boats are also known as "megayachts", "gigayachts ...

  19. These Are the 5 Biggest Superyachts in the World

    Azzam holds the title of largest privately owned superyacht, a position it has maintained since it was completed at a cost of $600 million by Lürssen Yachts in Lemwerder, Germany, ten years ago ...

  20. The World: Largest private residential yacht resumes sailing

    The 196 metre superyacht The World, which carries the title of the largest privately-owned residential yacht on earth, will recommence sailing in July 2021, it has been announced. The World is a multi-deck motor yacht which offers 165 luxury residences with an ever-changing view and high-end service. Amenities on board including six different ...

  21. AZZAM Yacht

    January 3, 2023. AZZAM yacht is the largest superyacht in the world, with an impressive length of 179.7 metres (590 ft), making her more than 15 metres longer than FULK AL SALAMAH, which is in second place on the list. Name: Azzam. Length:

  22. The top 10 largest sailing yachts in the world

    Discover the largest sailing yachts in the global superyacht fleet: 143m Sailing Yacht A, 106m Black Pearl, 93m EOS and many more.

  23. Check Out the Biggest and Priciest Boats at Palm Beach's Yacht Show

    Likely the largest yacht for sale (not just charter) at the show, the Talisman C is a 2011 six-bedroom boat. The owner's cabin comes with an en suite bathroom, dressing room, private library, and ...

  24. Baltimore bridge collapse: What happened and what is the death toll

    The biggest operational crane on the U.S. Eastern Seaboard will begin clearing the wreckage of Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge days after a cargo ship crashed into it, sending the span ...

  25. Queen Of The Skies: What Is The Biggest Private Jet?

    The largest known private jets are Boeing 747-8s (although it is possible the largest could be an Airbus A380). The Airbus A380 could be the largest if privately owned The Boeing 747-8 is the largest private jet known The Sultan of Brunei owns one of the most expensive private jets The world's ...

  26. Baltimore Bridge Collapse Latest: 6 Construction Workers Presumed Dead

    S ix remaining missing people after a large cargo ship crashed into the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore on Tuesday morning were presumed dead by authorities by evening after rescue efforts ...