The World’s Most Expensive Superyachts
Superyachts have always been associated with the wild and the wealthy, probably for good reason to.
These floating pleasure lands can be a vision sewn from dreams and the perfect way to help you experience the good life.
From champagne cocktails at breakfast to dropping anchor on some of the most exclusive beaches in the Caribbean, rolling out the red carpet to welcome you to the hottest beach clubs in the Balearics and supping every night on lobster and caviar beneath the stars.
Superyachts are even bedecked with personal onboard spas, saunas, Jacuzzis and more; imagine open air cinemas, a plethora of toys and tenders and a crew waiting to deliver your every dream day after day.
In the spirit of celebrating the finer things in life, take a sneak peek at some of the world’s most expensive superyachts to get you in the mood for summer.
Superyacht: Eclipse
Costing a staggering 1.5 billion and one of the biggest superyachts you can find in the seas, the Eclipse is about as grand as it gets.
Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich is the owner and with its twenty-four guest rooms and crew of sixty it certainly seems he has plenty of friends.
Two swimming pools glitter on deck along with a helipad for those days when a tender to shore simply won’t cut it. For those who adore their water toys, the Eclipse boasts its own unique submarine to dive deeper than anyone has ever gone before.
Those who appreciate a generous dollop of privacy when playing aboard will also adore the fact that this state of the art superyacht boasts an anti-paparazzi laser shield ensuring that not even the sneakiest camera will be able to catch a thing.
Image Source: By Keld Gydum via Wikimedia Commons
Superyacht: Dubai
Just like the famous city, this is a superyacht that is surely in a class of its very own. Dubai is owned by the Prime Minister of the UAE and cost an incredible 350 million.
The second largest private yacht is no stranger to the rich and the famous boasting an interior décor of the finest rich fabrics and incredibly ornate handmade mosaics.
Onboard you will never grow tired with Jacuzzis and swimming pools to keep you cool, a helipad to ensure you can get here, there and everywhere and a sweeping circular staircase with glass steps that change color to suit the mood of the evening.
Over a hundred people can sleep soundly on this luxurious superyacht and you are sure to want for nothing.
Image Source: By Imre Solt via Wikimedia Commons
Superyacht: A
The name may not sound particularly striking but once glance at this gleaming white pearl of the ocean and you are sure to be falling over to get a peek onboard.
Costing a majestic 300 million to make the design is simply out of this world. Bold and eccentric in design in a way that cannot help but make you think of a submarine, inside you will find gorgeous creamy décor laced with glass and minimalist style.
The glass fronted swimming pool is a dream come true and the beautiful tenders inspired and designed by Phillip Starck who created the whole yacht, are as intelligent and perfect as you could ever imagine possible.
Image Source: By Dstnfrey via Wikimedia Commons
Superyacht: Al Said
Said al Said, the Sultan of Oman really pushed the boat out with his 300 million showpiece that is said to have a grand hall so large it can hold a full-size orchestra.
This floating dream can sleep seventy guests in stately comfort and boasts a crew of up to a hundred and fifty. The interior is somewhat of an enigma making sure that this is a superyacht that holds its legends well.
Image Source: By Qatarperegrine via Wikimedia Commons
Superyacht: MY Starfire
Ok, maybe MY Starfire is not one of the most expensive superyachts in the world but it is akin to a boutique hotel when you don’t want to stay on land. Being a sumptuously sweeter size means that you can be sure that you get the special treatment you deserve.
Exceptional suites, plump and cozy designs and a small crew waiting to attend on you and your party alone makes for a welcoming stay with plenty of fun and frolics involved. MY Starfire also boasts a spa, cinema, and, of course, has plenty of wet and wild water toys to keep you fully entertained no matter which destination is calling you home.
Top 10 Superyacht Builders To Make Your Dream A Reality
From the design, type, speed, length and amenities, there are a lot of details to think about when purchasing a custom-made superyacht. Having worked aboard superyachts for several years, I got the chance to experience their luxury amenities and their layout first hand. Whether you have a design in mind or are starting from scratch, below is a list of the top 10 superyacht builders with years of experience turning their client’s visions of their ideal superyachts into reality.
1. Feadship
Feadship, which stands for First Export Association of Dutch Shipbuilders, is recognized as the world leader in pure custom-built yachts. Based in the Netherlands, the company launched more than 250 superyachts since 1949 and specializes in newly built motoryachts between 40 and 100 meters.
Personal Note: I had the pleasure to be a member of the launch crew of MY Anna, a 220' Feadship masterpiece. If you look closely at the picture below, you will see me at the helms of MY Anna, docking her in Marmaris, Turkey. What an experience!!
2. Lürssen
A family business since 1875, this Germany-based leading shipyard has built more than 13,000 boats, ships and yachts, and specializes in building new yachts between 60 and 150 meters.
Personal note: I was a member of the launch crew of MY Apoise, a 220' Lurssen superyacht with the best crew accommodations I have ever seen. Lürssen does understand the importance of the crew and treats them like members of their extended family.
3. Heesen
Founded in 1978, Heesen Yachts is dedicated to its company motto of providing one key principle: “The Performance of Luxury.” The Netherlands-based company builds and designs modern luxury superyachts with cutting edge technology, and is a leading builder of aluminum luxury yachts.
Personal note: Heesen recenly launched MY Galactica Star, which I had the pleasure to tour in Monaco. Although I have never worked aboard an Heesen superyacht, MY Galactica Star is a dream! It's beach club is by far the best I have seen.
4. Perini Navi
Based in Viareggio, Italy, the Perini Navi Group is made up of four companies that operates in five specific markets: large sail yachts from 40 to 60 meters; large sail yachts more than 60 meters; a racing line of sailing yachts, a fast cruising line of sailing yachts, and Picchiotti motor yachts.
Located on the Gulf Coast of the United States, Trinity Yachts designs, engineers, builds and delivers custom yachts at one facility. The company can build designs up to 123 meters, and is one of the elite builders of custom superyachts with focus on European quality, steel and aluminum constructions.
Personal note: Maxine and I both worked aboard a Trinity superyacht. Maxine was actually a member of the launch crew of MY Imagine. She spend several months at the shipyard prepping the yacht for this maiden voyage. She loved her experience. I worked aboard MY My Iris in the Hamptons for a season. The yacht was exquisite.
6. Amels
In 1982, Amels became a global brand leader in yacht building and has since then launched more than 30 custom yachts. Located in Vlissingen, Holland, the company builds custom superyachts, as well as limited edition superyachts for clients who want luxury yachts in less time.
7. Christensen
In 1982, Dave Christensen set out to build his own yacht after failing to find a builder up to his standards. Three years later, Christensen was incorporated to build luxury yachts and his company now has the capabilities to build yachts up to 65 meters in length.
8. Oceanco
Oceanco has been designing and building large luxury custom yachts since 1990. Although their shipyard is based in the Netherlands, they also have design, sales, marketing and administrative offices in Monaco.
9. Blohm & Voss
Founded in 1877, this German shipbuilder is known for building naval vessels and sophisticated megayachts. For existing superyacht owners, Blohm & Voss’s facilities offer the space to refit and repair luxury vessels up to 300 meters.
10. Benetti
Voted as the world’s leading builder of custom mega yachts by ShowBoats International magazine, Benetti was founded by Lorenzo Benetti in 1873 and has built nearly 300 boats since then. The company is headquartered in Viareggio, Italy, where they build semi-custom composite yachts and custom steel and aluminum yachts.
Personal note: Since MY Starfire's captain is both a patron and a good friend, I sailed from Fort Lauderdale to Miami aboard MY Starfire. Although the weather was rough, she handled it like a charm. Her sundeck is truly a great space to enjoy the sea-salt air.
If you are considering building or chartering a new superyacht, reach out to us and we will gladly point you in the right direction. We regularly keep in touch with the best in the industry.
Top Ten Superyacht Shows To Attend In 2014
Set to offer a glimpse into the lives of the uber elite, the 2014 superyacht show lineup is sure to be exciting. Whether you want to design your own Feadship or whether you prefer to book a private charter yacht aboard MY Starfire, don't miss out on the action of the much anticipated superyacht and lifestyle events happening this year.
Here is a quick roundup of our Top 10 Superyacht Shows to Attend in 2014.
London Boat Show: 4-12 January, 2014, Excel
Europe’s first boat show - it’s 60 year old - is sure to allure those who love our ocean and its myriad watersports activities. Admire the craftsmanship of hundreds of boats; talk to superyacht owners and experts; check out auxiliary products and services; learn about new techniques and technology; and enjoy every minute of this coveted event.
Dubai International Boat Show: 4-8 March, 2014, Dubai International Marine Club
Showcasing more than 450 luxury yachts, the Superyacht Pavilion is a huge draw for both VIP and the media. Partake in the launch of new superyachts; explore state-of-the-art dive equipment; admire exclusive automobiles at the Supercar Promenade; and rub shoulders with the elite at the Dubai International Boat Show.
The Hainan Rendez-vous: 20-23 March, 2014, Sanya, China
Conceptualized by Delphine Lignieres, the Hainan Rendez-Vous offers a peek into the trends of luxury lifestyle in Asia. With a superyacht pavilion, a private jet pavilion and a luxury property pavilion, each adorned with some of the best in class assets, this luxury event showcases the ever increasing opulence among China's elite.
Singapore Yacht Show: 10-13 April, 2014, ONE°15 Marina Club, Sentosa Cove
Creating the ultimate luxury yachting experience, the Singapore Yacht Show is the ultimate display of extravagance. The show boasts some of the finest parties and chic product launches alongside myriad superyachts, lavish waterfront properties available for purchase and fine dining establishments.
China (Shanghai) International Boat Show: 10-13 April, 2014, Shanghai World Expo Exhibition & Convention Center
Launched 19 years ago in the hopes of stirring Chinese interest in yachting, the China (Shanghai) International Boat Show is growing in popularity every year. Along with the impressive range of luxury yachts on display, this boat show hosts several watersports, leisure activities and lifestyle goods.
Antibes Yacht Show: 24-27 April, Port Vauban, Antibes
Set to gather superyachts at the beginning of the Mediterranean yacht charter season, the Antibes Yacht Show is the ideal event to visit if you are looking to either sell, buy or charter a luxury yacht. It is also the preferred venue for superyacht crew looking for new employment.
MYBA Yacht Charter Show: 28 April-2 May, 2014, Genoa
Dedicated to superyachts in all its glory, the MYBA Yacht Charter Show is getting ready to offer a singular experience to attendees with a dynamic social program and a Gala Event. The show also offers an ideal opportunity for charter professionals to connect and network with some of the most renowned charter agencies and brokers from across the globe.
Beirut Boat Show: 14-18 May, 2014, Port of Beirut, Pier I
This year the Beirut Boat Show is changing location to accommodate its growing popularity. On display will be several luxury yachts, products and services that defines the lifestyle of those who prefer the finer things in life. Enjoy the Beirut Boat Show's chic and relaxed atmosphere.
Cannes International Yacht Show: 9-14 September, 2014, Vieux Port, Port Pierre Canto and Espace Riviera
Known worldwide as Europe’s first in-water boat show, the Cannes International Yacht Show showcases some of the finest vessels against the splendid French Riviera backdrop. Leisurely make your way along the hundreds of sailboats, speedboats and luxury yachts made available for your enjoyment.
Monaco Yacht Show: 24-27 September, 2014, Monaco
Patronized by HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco, the Monaco Yacht Show brings forward the best in class superyachts from around the world. A prestigious event for jetsetters, this superyacht event is the perfect platform to learn about nautical and technological innovations and new luxury yachting services.
With a host of superyacht events trying to capture your attention, 2014 is sure to enchant the superyacht aficionado in everyone.
