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.
The Costs of Owning a Superyacht
One of the most common question I get asked about my time working aboard superyacht is "What are the costs associated with owning a superyacht?" Since no two superyachts are the same and since no two superyacht owners request the same from their yacht and crew, the answer is often hard to give out.
If the superyacht is moved every day from one destination to the next, your annual fuel bill might brake the million dollar mark, but if you plan on keeping it docked in front of your villa to be taken out on weekends only, then fuel costs might not be an issue.
Since the question seems to be asked a lot by those who are simply curious or those who are seriously thinking about splurging on a shinny new white boat, the people at Luxury Yacht Group, an agency that provides creative solutions for yacht management, crew placement, sales and charter, have put together the Luxury Yacht Operating Cost Calculator.
Using this great tool, I decided to calculate the average costs of a 150' superyacht with 9 crew members and a 12 week charter season. Here are the results:
| Engine Costs | ||
| Fuel | $ | 83,222 |
| Heat Exchange | $ | 4,091 |
| Rebuild Costs | $ | 69,168 |
| Service Costs | $ | 23,323 |
| Total | $ | 179,804 |
| Generator Costs | ||
| Fuel | $ | 65,047 |
| Service Costs | $ | 25,202 |
| Rebuild Costs | $ | 13,500 |
| Total | $ | 103,749 |
| Maintenance | ||
| Deck | $ | 7,599 |
| Interior | $ | 29,378 |
| Paint | $ | 97,365 |
| Onboard Tenders | $ | 9,563 |
| Water Maker | $ | 2,113 |
| Total | $ | 146,018 |
| Hydraulics | ||
| Bow Thrusters | $ | 5,357 |
| Active Roll Stabilization | $ | 20,357 |
| Total | $ | 25,714 |
| Dockage and Transport | ||
| Dockage | $ | 199,125 |
| Dockage while owner is aboard | $ | 42,000 |
| Ocean Transport | $ | 300,000 |
| Total | $ | 541,125 |
| Crew Costs | ||
| Salaries | Annual | |
| Second Officer/OOW | $ | 48,000 |
| Deckhand | $ | 36,000 |
| Chief Engineer | $ | 84,000 |
| Chief Stewardess | $ | 66,000 |
| Stewardess | $ | 67,200 |
| Chef | $ | 60,000 |
| Deckhand / Engineer | $ | 38,400 |
| Midgrade Captain | $ | 120,000 |
| Total | $ | 519,600 |
| Crew Payroll Services | $ | 3,600 |
| Crew Medical | $ | 12,600 |
| Crew Liability | $ | 3,300 |
| Travel | $ | 15,300 |
| Food | $ | 57,488 |
| Uniform | $ | 24,750 |
| Training | $ | 4,500 |
| Day workers | $ | 23,310 |
| Total | $ | 664,448 |
| Communications | ||
| Wireless Internet Card | $ | 1,344 |
| Satelite Data Link | $ | 54,000 |
| Satelite TV | $ | 1,440 |
| Crew Cellular | $ | 1,095 |
| Navigation | $ | 3,808 |
| Total | $ | 61,687 |
| Guest Costs | ||
| Dining and Spirits | $ | 42,000 |
| Entertainment | $ | 5,400 |
| Water Sports | $ | 9,600 |
| Total | $ | 57,000 |
| Administration | ||
| $ | 24,545 | |
| Office Supplies | $ | 16,821 |
| ISM & ISPS/ ISM Mini | $ | 6,300 |
| Total | $ | 47,666 |
| Charter Revenue | ||
| Sales (12 weeks at $200,000/week) | $ | 2,400,000 |
| Charter Broker Fees - Retail Broker | -$ | 360,000 |
| Charter Agent Fees - Central Agent | -$ | 120,000 |
| Total Net Income | $ | 1,920,000 |
| TOTAL ANNUAL EXPENSES | $ | 1,827,543 |
| Annual Profit/Loss | $ | 92,457 |
Obviously, the costs of owning a superyacht vary widely on the choices you make, but one think is sure, you can significantly offset the costs by chartering it out for a minimum of 12 weeks a year. One way to stand out from the fleet of superyacht available for charter is to brand your superyacht - build a website, publish a great blog and be social. Need an example, check our MY Starfire's digital success.
Ten Reasons To Brand Your Superyacht
Your superyacht is the apogee of perfection, but then again, so are all the others luxury yachts of this world. So much care is given to a superyacht's design, amenities and layout that, although different in style, they tend to be somewhat flawless. We know; we have worked on several superyachts as crew. Therefore, we understand yachting from the inside out.
If you seek to generate revenue from your superyacht by chartering it a few times a year, you might consider hiring a charter management company to do all the legwork. This is great but don't forget to brand your superyacht in order to stand out from the fleet.
Just for fun, we have looked up hundreds of superyachts, ranging from 120' to 220' and up, and noticed one alarming fact: less than 10% of charter yachts have websites! Also, it seems like the average superyacht with a website hasn't updated it in many years, making their digital presence old school. Most luxury yachts don't use social media, and most don't do any type of digital marketing at all.
So, in case we have picked your curiosity and you want to learn more about branding your superyacht, read on.
Branding is what takes your superyacht from a stand-alone boat and turns it into a living entity. It gives your superyacht its unique personality, a personality with a compelling story. Branding also gives your superyacht a meaning, unifies its existence and creates an overall effect on your desired market, the Ultra-High-Net-Worth-Individual.
As a general rule, your brand is what everyone else says it is. By giving it a storyline, you help everyone understand that your superyacht is a lot more than its jet skis and sun beds.
To help you understand the reasons you need to brand you luxury yacht, here is our Top Ten Reasons to Brand Your Superyacht.
1.Tell a Story: There’s a great story behind every superyacht.
A superyacht is nothing without its crew and captain. They live, breathe & love every inch of “their” superyacht. You must, therefore, tell the story of your yacht through the eyes of its crew.
2. Evoke Emotions: Build the dream by showcasing the lifestyle.
As the saying goes, pictures are worth a thousand words, but what can be said about a video? Wouldn’t it be worth a million words? Get creative with your branding and engage potential guests from every angle. Don't focus so much on your superyacht's characteristics, put the emphasis on the overall charter experience.
3. Promise Service: The crew is a superyacht’s finest asset.
It’s not all about the number of jet skis, sun beds, or staterooms. A superyacht is the apogee of luxury living yet little is known about its impeccable service. Showcase the crew and you showcase the yacht.
4. Tailor Bespoke Retreats: Every yacht offers a unique escape.
A superyacht is the ultimate gateway to the finest destinations. Create itineraries that inspire action and stand out from the rest. No one wants to be given a "time to wake up". Engage your fans with your luxury living expertise.
5. Create Preference: Build loyalty and keep them coming back.
Provide key emotional experiences that patrons will want to enjoy time and again. Don’t just drop them off at the airport and forget them, keep them engaged for years to come.
6. Express Luxury: Verbalize the distinct style of your superyacht.
Family, Adults, Business; American, European or Asian. Your crew can do it all, but what is your superyacht's personality. Verbalize the tangible differences to attract the desired clientele.
7. Delight the Senses: Your chef is your secret ingredient.
Make them salivate and drool over your chef’s tantalizing dishes. Pair it with a delightful wine to enhance the overall effect. Get your chef active on land to introduce the yacht. Win them over with your delectable offering.
8. Entice Summertime Fun: Show your water sport skills to get them excited.
Nothing beats a day playing in the sun with the deck crew. They are experts in water sports and able teachers. Let them showcase their talent to inspire adventure.
9. Offer Uniqueness: It’s all in the details.
Now, let’s talk about the yacht’s unique offering. Its beach BBQs, its Jacuzzi and pool, its steam room and gym. Its staterooms and dining options. Remember, it’s not all about facts and numbers. It’s all in the packaging.
10. Building an Identity: One Yacht, One identity. No mistake should be made.
Potential patrons are exposed to a hundred or more superyachts before making their final chartering choice. The question is, how will they recall yours?
If you are considering branding your superyacht, don't hesitate to reach out to us for a one-on-one consultation. In the meantime, check MY Starfire's website and social media channels to see our expertise first hand.
11 Tips For A Social Superyacht
If you own or manage a superyacht, you might be dabbling with the idea of increasing your charter revenues by stepping up your digital presence. If you already have a great superyacht website, such as the one we designed for MY Stafire, the next step is to join the social wave.
Why should your superyacht join the social wave? Because social media gets you actively connected with industry leaders, influencers and fans while your website simply waits for them to connect with you.
In an era where time is scarce, some consider social media to be the new email with its quick, timely and relevant interactions. As you share your story with compelling content across your social media channels, you let fans get to know the people behind the superyacht, creating the foundation to a great relationship.
But in order to turn fans into brand evangelists, you must have a clear social media strategy that includes great content representing your superyacht’s expertise. Once you have a strategy and a few original pieces of great content, such as infographics and blog posts, you must get the message out to the right audience at the right time through the right channels.
To help you better understand the digital yachting landscape, we have put together some of our wisdom to get your superyacht on the social wave. Here are our 11 Tips for a Social Superyacht.
1-Be reachable. To interact with you they need to find you.
Your website is the gateway to your social media channels; so make sure your social icons are easily findable on every page. Don’t hide the icons, but instead, be proud to be social and place them somewhere easily findable. Consider adding social widgets to your website giving a glimpse into your social communities.
2-Be Branded. Tell your superyacht’s unique story.
Your social media channels must reflect your superyacht’s personality. Are you a fun yacht, a classic yacht, an exploration yacht? Or are you just a regular plain old yacht? We didn’t think so. You must build your social media personality around the superyacht’s true essence.
3-Be Real. Show the people behind the superyacht.
You are more than jet skis, sun beds and staterooms. You are a superyacht, loved and serviced by a team of crew members. Your crew is your differentiating strength and must be put forward throughout your social media strategy. Don’t hesitate to share adventures, stories and fun facts about your crew to show the real side of your superyacht.
4-Be Engaging. Don’t talk alone, have two-way conversations.
These is nothing more boring than listening to someone talk about themselves for hours on end; don’t do the same on your social media channels. As a general rule of thumb, don’t spend more then 25-35% of your time talking about your superyacht. Instead, give your words to others and you will see them giving theirs back to you. Social media is all about team work.
5-Be Knowledgeable. Show off your expertise with others.
You are a superyacht. Luxury & travel experts and even brokers have a lot to learn from you about the industry. Share some of that wisdom and privileged information by answering questions from others and giving your opinions on related topics. Don’t just be there, get involved in the discussion.
6-Be Creative. Have fun and show your spirit.
You have a superyacht with a great personality; so now it’s time to show it off. Create compelling content such as infographics, videos, photos, blog posts, interviews to get people talking about your superyacht. You are living the life, so why not share it with those who dream of white sands and blue waters.
7-Be Around. Don’t join to simply disappear.
Getting to know your fans takes time and dedication; so you might not see any results in the first few weeks and months. Once influencers see that you are here to stick around and that you provide compelling content, they won’t hesitate in creating social synergy and give back some social love.
8-Be Everywhere. Build your presence where fans seek you.
Your fans are on every social network; so it's important to have a unified presence across all majors channels. Since time is of essence, concentrate your efforts on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, LinkedIn, Google+ and Instagram. You might also want to interact on a country specific network to target a specific clientele.
9-Be Personable. Show your personality and enjoy the wave.
Every social media platform has its guidelines; so don’t automate your Tweet, Pins and Likes, then forget about it. There is no better way to kill your social presence then to plug in a tool and forget about engaging. Your fans won’t interact with your superyacht if you take a robotic approach to social media. They will immediately see the disconnect between your interactions and your social promise.
10-Be Surprising. Engage your followers with unique content.
A little bit of this, a lot of that and a little more of this. The secret ingredient to a social cocktail involves combining questions, quotes, comments, replies, retweets, hashtags, pictures, videos, polls, giveaways, blog posts and everything else that fits with your branded strategy. Don’t repeat the same strategy every day, as you will see your social interaction fade away. Surprise to engage, then surprise once more.
11-Be Luxury. You are a superyacht, so you must act like one.
Since your online presence reflects your reputation, you must always act and talk like a superyacht. Social media is all about building your brand image, an image that is built on one Tweet, Like or Pin at a time. A reputation can be tainted rapidly; so make sure to have a clear strategy before you jump in.
Now that you understand the basics of building a solid branded superyacht presence on social media, the question is, what will be your superyacht’s social media strategy? Reach out to us if you need someone to guide you with your digital presence.
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.
