Europe is known for its centuries-long yachting industry traditions. In Italy, the Netherlands and Germany, shipbuilders have been competing to construct the largest vessels with impressive LOAs of over 160 metres. Still, more humble in their ambitions and opportunities US yacht builders also have something to offer to potential charterers and buyers.
With such prominent names on the yachting arena, as Palmer Johnson, Trinity Yachts or Christensen, US yards dispose of an incredible array of building options, and they are definitely worth taking a look at. Yacht Harbour lists top 10 out of the largest superyachts built on the territory of the USA so far.
#10. Invictus
Length: 65.5m
Builder: Delta Marine
Year: 2013
The vessel is owned by US billionaire and real estate magnate Rick Caruso with his net worth estimated at $4 billion (Forbes), coming from a net of open-air shopping centres he developed around Los Angeles.
Delivered by Delta Marine in 2013, the yacht of a steel hull and aluminium superstructure features a 13.1-metre beam and a 4-metre draft. Within exteriors by Delta Design Group and interiors by Diane Johnson Design, Invictus can accommodate 12 guests across 6 cabins.
Invictus has recently gained much attention in the media with the news that, after sensational win of the World Cup Trophy, US women football team had celebrated the victory aboard the superyacht. It was said that the owner of Invictus invited the team onboard to demonstrate his support for equal pay to the male counterparts, which was the team’s long-time issue.
#9. Blue Shadow
Length: 66.75m
Builder: Campbell Shipyards
Year: 1995
Designed by Francis Design, the yacht was initially said to act as a support vessel for The Golden Fleet of Prince Khaled bin Sultan, son of the late Crown Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz of Saudi Arabia. With her initial name ‘Golden Shadow’, she was the first support yacht in the industry.
Designed by Martin Francis, the superyacht features a beam of 11.8 metres and a draft of 4.5 metres. With the power of Deutz engines, Blue Shadow reaches her maximum speed at 16.5 knots and a cruising speed of 15 knots, with an estimated range of 13,000 nautical miles.
Blue Shadow features spacious accommodation for up to 20 guests across 11 staterooms. One of the key trademarks on-board is the main deck area suitable for storage of up to 5 boats, a vast dining area and cosy lounge exteriors. In addition to her other toys, she carries a seaplane called the Golden Eye.
In April 2019, the vessel was sold asking €9,950,000.
#8. Global
Length: 67.06m
Builder: Bender Shipbuilding & Repair
Year: 1982
The 1982 Global was designed by Lay, Pitman & Associates with Bender Shipbuilding developing the naval architecture, and interior design created by Kimberly Gonzales. With a beam of 12.2 metres and a draft of 3.7 metres, she has a steel hull and aluminium superstructure.
With a gross tonnage of 1,303 tons, she offers accommodation to up to 12 guests across 6 cabins. Her exterior features include a large swimming pool, a helipad, a davit, and a high capacity crane.
She is powered by Caterpillar engines of 2,450 hp each giving her a maximum speed of 14 knots and a cruising speed of 12 knots. Global's maximum range is estimated at 10,000 nautical miles.
She is currently on sale asking $ 6,990,000 through United Yacht Sales.
#7. Explorer
Length: 67.28m
Builder: Candies Shipbuilders (formerly Houma)
Year: 1980
The superyacht was originally built and launched as a 51.8-metre superyacht.
Undergoing an extensive refit in 2011, Explorer saw her hull extended to current 67 metres. Another extensive refit of 2014 encapsulated addition of the owner’s stateroom, private lounge, gym and spa. A movie theatre was installed and all the audio and IT systems upgraded.
Within exteriors by Kirilloff and Associates and interior designs by Joseph Artese, Explorer offers accommodation for up to 8 guests and a crew of 9.
Techno wise, she is powered by GM engines giving her a maximum speed of 12 knots and a cruising speed of 10 knots at 12,200 nautical miles.
#6. Albatross
Length: 72m
Builder: Delta Marine
Year: 2016
Being on a confidentiality agreement, builder the yacht’s builder has not revealed information on her general arrangement, or full design team. Albatross has a 13-metre beam and displaces impressive 1,700 GT.
Similarly to Laurel and a few other yachts by Delta Marine, Albatross has a steel hull with a fibreglass superstructure. Moreover, the superyacht features a side-launching tender garage with an overhead crane, and a hefty davit on the sundeck for another boat or toy.
#5. Laurel
Length: 73.15m
Builder: Delta Marine
Year: 2006
Designed from inside out by Donald Starkey, Laurel was commissioned by experienced owners purposefully for remote, expedition-style cruising. Laurel's interior layout sleeps up to 12 guests across 7 rooms, including a master suite, 4 double cabins, 1 twin cabin and 1 pullman bed.
The yacht’s interior is furnished in eclectic style. Notably, the central staircase spirals around a three-storey-high glass sculpture by Seattle artist Mary van Cline that depicts marine life. In terms of amenities, there are a gym, spa pool and sunbathing zone on the sin deck aft and a complete tender garage on-board.
Laurel is propelled by CAT engines of 2500 hp each to a cruising speed of 15 knots, a maximum speed of 18 knots and a range of 6,000 nautical miles.
She is available for charter from € 472,500 per week via Ocean Independence.
#4. Cocoa Bean
Length: 73.98m
Builder: Trinity Yachts, LLC
Year: 2014
Featuring exteriors by Evan K Marshall & H2 Design and interiors by Evan K Marshall, the 74-metre yacht measures to a 12-metre beam and a 4-metre draft. Within impressive interior volume of 1,590 tons, the superyacht offers accommodation to up to 14 guests across 7 cabins.
Cocoa Bean features expansive deck spaces five decks, also with an extended beach club and swim platform. The superyacht disposes of a 2016 Riva to take guests from ship to shore, as well as a 2016 Chapman with a 300hp engine and multiple water toys including 2 jetskis, a jetsurf, full diving & snorkelling equipment, kayaks, paddleboards, waterskis and so one.
Propelled by engines of 2,575 hp, Cocoa Bean reaches her maximum speed at 15 knots and cruises at 12 knots.
She is available for charter from € 550,000 per week via Fraser.
#3. SS Delphine
Length: 78.3m
Builder: Great Lakes Engineering Works
Year: 1921
Built by Great Lakes Engineering in 1921, the yacht went through burning, sinking, being restored, serving as a flagship in WWII and, decades later, restored again, then returning to her original state as a yacht.
With a beam of 10.7 metres and a draft of 4.6 metres, the yacht has a steel hull. She features four-cylinder, triple-expansion steam engines, which are still in use today giving SS Delphine a maximum speed of 11 knots.
The vessel is available for charter.
#2. Aquila
Length: 85.6m
Builder: Derecktor
Year: 2010
Formerly known as Cakewalk, this 85-metre yacht was sold to her current owner at an asking price of €119,000,000 at the end of 2014. Consequently, she underwent a 12-month refit at Pendennis in the UK and had her name changed to Aquila.
The motor yacht can accommodate 14 guests in 7 cabins with an interior design by Dalton Designs and an exterior design by Tim Heywood. She is powered by MTU engines of 3306 hp each giving her a maximum speed of 18 knots and a cruising speed of 15 knots
The largest yacht built in the United States since the 1930s, Aquila's improvement focused mainly on the interior. For instance, the owner's stateroom was entirely remodelled, a 60 square metre private deck was added, while the Jacuzzi was repositioned to the forward sun deck.
Aquila is available for charter from € 945,000 a week through Burgess.
#1. Voyager (Ex: Danah Voyager , Candy Trader)
Length: 91.4m
Builder: Swiftships Inc.
Year: 1997
In fact, the largest American explorer superyacht was built in 1997 as a commercial ship. Meaning the largest superyacht conversion on the territory of the USA, US yacht market player Voyager Maritime Alliance Group (VMAG) has recently announced the successful completion three-year works.
First works done on Voyager included the lengthening of the platform, redesigning the bow area, and adding several superstructure decks for a completely new look. During completion works, the superyacht was empowered with the new generators and took a complete interior rejuvenation.
Overall, the vessel now boasts six decks with a helipad, spa room, dive centre, and extensive storage for tenders and water toys.
Spanish studio Daroca Design has introduced Real, an 80-metre yacht concept developed as part of Oceanco’s Simply Custom collection. This approach allows clients to begin with a proven platform by Lateral Naval Architects, then customise both the exterior and interior.According to designer Alejandro Crespo, Real is a “true reflection of a desire for sleek minimalism and perfect proportions,” with an exterior intended to “integrate into the natural landscape.” The design features flowing lines, curved superstructure details, and glass bulwarks. A beach club includes two pools and direct water access via a swim platform. The concept also shows generous lounging areas, a helipad at the bow, and white furnishings for a contemporary look.Crespo describes Real as “a symbol of sincerity and distinction,” designed for both calm coastlines and open waters, with the goal of reconnecting with nature, family, friends, and “the beauty of life.”The Simply Custom designs incorporate advanced technical elements such as optimised stabilisation, pod drives, electric propulsion, and onboard battery storage. Oceanco states that the platform supports renewable diesel fuels like HVO, which can reduce carbon emissions by 80 to 90 per cent compared to standard marine diesel.Real’s unveiling follows the introduction of other Simply Custom concepts, including North West Boatworks’ Aurora earlier in the month.Credit: Daroca Design
December 20, 2024
Aiata, a brand entering the boating market under the Turkish conglomerate Anadolu Group, will make its global debut at Boot Düsseldorf 2025. The show, held from January 18 to January 26, 2025, attracts over 250,000 visitors and more than 1,900 exhibitors worldwide. Aiata will present the Wayfinder 38 in three variations: Cabin, Open, and a specialized Fishing configuration derived from the other two models.The Wayfinder 38 is a 25-foot outboard walkaround designed by Finnish designer Jarkko Jämsén. Aiata states that this model “stands for flexibility, comfort and craftsmanship.” The Cabin version includes a wheelhouse layout with an L-shaped salon, integrated galley, Webasto sunroof, and air conditioning system. It offers teak furniture, a queen-size bed, an enclosed bathroom, and 2-meter ceilings. Its wheelhouse incorporates a lift-up mechanism connecting the interior and cockpit. The bow area features a U-shaped sofa with a hi-low table.The Open model is designed for a more outdoor experience, featuring a suntop and a continuous salon layout intended to create a seamless connection between interior and exterior spaces. Oak furniture complements the open deck.A Fishing configuration is also available, applicable to both Cabin and Open models. It includes a spacious foredeck sunbed and is described as ergonomic and intuitive, making it suitable for day cruises, watersports, or fishing activities. The Wayfinder 38 offers outboard engine options ranging from 300 to 425 horsepower.Yutkun TokYutkun Tok, General Manager of Aiata, said: “We are honored to participate in Boot Düsseldorf, a prestigious platform that celebrates the pinnacle of the boating world. The Wayfinder 38 embodies Aiata’s mission to deliver versatile, high-performance boats backed by the Anadolu Group’s legacy of innovation and excellence. For Aiata, this is a defining moment – not only because we are showcasing the Wayfinder 38, but because it reflects the expertise and unwavering commitment to quality that define the Anadolu Group. Aiata benefits from the financial strength and engineering excellence of Anadolu Group, ensuring every vessel we produce is a symbol of reliability, innovation, and craftsmanship. We look forward to sharing our passion for boating with enthusiasts from around the globe.”Credits: Aiata
December 20, 2024
Antonini Navi, established in 2020 by the Antonini Group in collaboration with engineer Aldo Manna, has announced the successful joining of the hull and superstructure for its Seamore 34 superyacht. According to the shipyard, “The steel hull was connected to the aluminum superstructure using bimetal,” and with this phase completed, the focus will now shift to the vessel’s internal compartmentalization.Seamore 34, featuring design and development by Hot Lab, is the first model in a “semi-custom” series scheduled for launch in the second half of 2025. The yacht’s profile is described as having “a high, dominant bow” that gives it a “sleek and sporty feel,” combined with superstructure volumes that result in “an elegant, maritime look.” The concept prioritizes versatility and flexibility, as well as open spaces that “create unique settings for sharing and conviviality among guests.”The shipyard states: “One of the most interesting features of Seamore 34 is the more than 150-square-meter open-air living space on the main deck, much of which can be closed off if needed by sliding pocket windows fitted flush with the deck.”At the current stage of construction, potential buyers, captains, and brokers can arrange onboard visits. These inspections, guided by engineers from the shipyard’s technical office, provide industry professionals the opportunity to examine the yacht’s construction quality and design firsthand.The Pertusola shipyard in the Gulf of La Spezia was bought by Walter Antonini in 1977. Since then, Antonini Navi has been a family-held leader in superyacht custom build and refitting.Credits: Antonini Navi
December 20, 2024
Turkish shipyard Sarp Yachts has released the first interior renderings of the XSR 85 RPH, a 25.9-metre raised-pilothouse model set to debut in late 2025. Developed in collaboration with Red Yacht Design and Van Oossanen Naval Architects, the yacht is described as having “more expansive interior and exterior spaces” compared to previous models in the XSR series.According to the shipyard, the interior design takes cues from “the captivating beauty of ocean life,” using light tones and airy spaces to promote a connection to the seascape. The yacht accommodates five cabins, including a main deck master cabin with a private bow terrace. Al fresco dining options are available on the sundeck, and lounge areas are located on the main deck aft and swim platform.Design director of Red Yacht Design, Cana Gokhan, stated: “The XSR 85 RPH represents our commitment to pushing boundaries in yacht design. By integrating an ocean-inspired theme with modern luxury and optimising both interior and exterior spaces, we’ve created a yacht that sets a new benchmark in its category."Elkin Yildirim, general manager of Sarp Yachts, added: “The XSR 85 RPH represents a leap forward in yacht design and functionality. In this project, we push boundaries and craft a vessel that merges elegance, comfort and practicality. We are thrilled to share these remarkable interiors, which perfectly reflect our dedication to innovation and excellence."Credit: Sarp Yachts
December 19, 2024
The 2025 RORC Transatlantic Race’s multihull lineup presents a departure from recent years, as a range of different vessels seek Line Honours in the MOCRA Class. Previous editions were dominated by MOD70s, but this year’s field promises greater diversity.Among the competitors is Oren Nataf’s Pulsar 50 Rayon Vert (FRA). In 2021, Rayon Vert secured overall line honours in the RORC Transatlantic Race, finishing in 9 days 2 hours 33 minutes and 19 seconds, and later took second place in MOCRA for the 2021 Rolex Fastnet Race. For the 2025 edition, Rayon Vert will race double-handed with François Seruzier.Miami-based Jacopo Bracco enters with the custom 53-foot trimaran Finn (USA), designed by Renaud Banuls. Bracco has raced multihulls since childhood, and Finn’s crew includes individuals with MOD70 experience, such as project manager Sam Mabey, 5.80 Transat winner Etienne Messikommer, and record-setter Jeff Mearing. Bracco stated: “In the right conditions, Finn can easily hit 20 knots and surf at 30!” He also noted one concession: “I have found a real Italian restaurant in Lanzarote which will be preparing some great meals. I am originally Italian, so there is no way we are going to race without good food!”Clarin Mustad’s Alibi 54 trimaran Dakota returns after failing to start in 2024 due to rudder issues. Now prepared in Lanzarote, Dakota could finish in about 12 days under ideal conditions. Mustad, new to ocean racing, said: “I prefer to compete rather than cruise because it makes the journey so much more exciting.” Dakota, bearing a Grenadian sail number, will be crewed by experienced sailors including co-skipper Carles Boned Roig and Christina Menabó, plus other friends.Thierry Roger’s Newick 39 trimaran Perros-Guirec, a sistership to the 1978 Route du Rhum winner Olympus Photos, will also compete. Roger will race double-handed with longtime colleague Renan Le Penven and aims to maintain an average speed of 10 knots. Roger, who has waited years to attempt a transatlantic crossing, said: “This will be my first transatlantic, but I have looked out over that ocean all my life… Now, at 64, I work less, so I have raced the boat in many regattas, but my ultimate goal is the 2026 Route du Rhum.”These entries join others in the Multihull Class at the RORC Transatlantic Race, supported by Calero Marinas, the International Maxi Association, and the Yacht Club de France. The race is scheduled to start on January 12, 2025, from Marina Lanzarote, covering 3,000 miles to Camper & Nicholsons Port Louis Marina in Grenada.Credit: RORС
December 19, 2024