A privileged yard, one of the leading builders of custom superyachts, Lürssen has constructed 5 out of 10 world’s largest vessels. The yard also holds all the records for the largest yachts in terms of LOA with the 180.6-metre Azzam, and in terms of interior volume with the 156-metre Dilbar.
With a few attempts to overdo the giant manufacturer in recent years (for instance, Project REV will exceed Azzam by 1.6 metres once launched), its domination in the field doesn’t seem to be hindered. Today, Yacht Harbour recalls the largest 10 mammoth vessels presented by the German yard so far.
#10. Octopus
LOA: 126.2m
Year: 2003
Until the explorer superyacht REV launches in 2020, Octopus holds the title of the largest expedition yacht in the world, not surpassed in 16 years from her launch. She had belonged to Microsoft cofounder Paul Allen, who had also owned NBA’s Portland Trail Blazers and NFL’s Seattle Seahawks teams till he passed away in late 2018. His fortune was estimated at $20,3 billion by Forbes.
Octopus is capable to accommodate 26 guests in total, with up to 57 crew members. Amenities found on-board include a swimming pool and a music studio as well as a courtyard-like set up on the third deck of Octopus occupied by guest space.
She has two helicopter pads and an internal dock that extends through the hull, holding two submarines and a 18-metre tender. The yacht has been involved in multiple exploration discoveries, including a Japanese battleship and the bell from HMS Hood, a World War II battlecruiser.
Despite her expedition nature, the yacht has been much favoured by the world’s top-rate celebrities, with Mick Jagger recording an album in on-board studio in 2011 and Usher, U2 and Johnny Cash listed among other performers.
#9. Crescent
LOA: 135m
Year: 2018
Built as project Thunder, motor yacht Crescent features exteriors by Espen Oeino and interiors by Zuretti Interior Design. She encompasses a total volume of 9,194 GT with a beam of 22 metres.
One of the most significant features of Crescent is her huge glared atrium with three-deck-high windows, allowing for plenty of natural light to penetrate the elegant interiors. In addition, the yacht has been constructed with two helicopter pads instead of one, including the retractable helicopter hangar on the upper deck.
Crescent represents a full-displacement steel hull and aluminium superstructure yacht, built to Lloyds Register classifications. She was fitted with zero speed stabilisers for increased comfort on board, while she is also air-conditioned.
The yacht offers accommodations for 18 guests across nine staterooms. Little is known about the interior, though if it lives up to Crescent’s brash exterior, the complete yacht promises to be an entirely groundbreaking design.
#8. Flying Fox
LOA: 136.0m
Year: 2019
Stretching across a beam of 20.5-meters, the yacht with estimated 9,100 GT of interior volume currently ranks as the 14th largest yacht in the world. Her dove grey sleek hull lines were conceived by Espen Oeino, complemented with interiors by UK designer Mark Berryman. The latter reportedly focus on neutral tones and a calm appearance.
Recently made available for charter, Flying Fox boasts two helipads, large sea terraces, wide swim platforms for watersports, a panoramic exterior saloon on the roof deck and a generous 12-metre swimming pool crossways the main deck, the first one for a superyacht of that size. She can accommodate up to 22 guests across 11 staterooms, along with a crew of 54.
Meanwhile, the vessel’s main interior area, the large two-floor saloon, lies on the bridge deck, fitted with wood fireplace, dining table for 22 guests and a cinema. Flying Fox is also trademarked with a unique in its size 400 square-metre two-floor spa, offering guests a hammam, sauna, massage area, gym and cryo sauna. On the lower deck, the spa area is connected to the sea lounge which comes with a large Jacuzzi, and access to the sea through the dive centre and sea platforms.
Speedwise, the vessel features a cruising speed of 15 knots.
#7. Rising Sun
LOA: 138m
Year: 2004
Rising Sun was built by Lürssen in 2004, with the design of Jon Bannenberg. David Geffen, a billionaire with a net worth of $6 billion, had co-owned Rising Sun along with Larry Ellison from 2004, before he bought it in 2010. Being one of the largest yachts in the world, it costed $200,000,000 to build Rising Sun, according to some reports.
With exterior design by Jon Bannenberg, Rising Sun is defined by banks of windows across the superstructure. The yacht takes advatage of 8,000 square metres of living space in 82 rooms. It can accommodate 18 guests in nine cabins, with the capacity to carry up to 46 crew. The interior by Laura Seccombe includes a gym, cinema, and wine cellar. One of the most destinctive hallmarks of the yacht, the rear cockpit deck, was designed as a basketball court.
#6. Al Salamah
LOA: 139.3m
Year: 1999
At the time of her launch in 1999, Al Salamah was not only the largest yacht by Lürssen, but also the third largest vessel in the world. Previously existing under the codename Mipos (Mission Possible), Al Salamah's owner was Prince Sultan bin Abdul Aziz of Saudi Arabia (Crown Prince). Since then, rumours have been circulating that the yacht had been offered for sale in 2012 at nearly $300,000,000, but that remained unconfirmed.
Al Salamah 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 94 crew and has a top speed of 21 knots. Al Salamah underwent a refit by Lürssen in 2007.
#5. Redwood
LOA: 142m
Year: 2020
The 142-metre superyacht Redwood has been recently moved into final construction stage at Lürssen’ Vegesack facility in Bremen, with her delivery scheduled to 2020.
This vessel has already become history as the largest yacht ever sold and built by a brokerage company, Moran Yacht & Ship. Designed by the team at Nuvolari & Lenard, Project Redwood is being built to a Moran Yacht & Ship specification, overseeing her construction.
The sale of Project Redwood was announced In September 2015, as a 139-metre project. She was later extended at 3 metres, boasting six decks, with sports and diving centre, a generous partially-covered swimming pool, two helipads and a whole bunch of large tenders (15 metres).
Venive-based design studio Nuvolari & Lenard created the yacht’s interior design, which will be able to accommodate up to 36 guests in 20 staterooms. Redwood will also be able for long-range and efficient global explorations.
#4. A+
LOA: 147.3m
Year: 2012
Formerly known as Topaz, the yacht has been recently renamed A+, with no record of changing owners or being earlier listed for sale, though.
Built in 2012, A+ belongs on the list of the largest vessels owned by sports teams owners. According to media, she is owned by Sheikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, with an estimated personal net worth of $4.9 billion. Sheikh Mansour also owns ADUG investment company that takes the ownership of Manchester City F.C.
With her gross tonnage of 12,532 GT, A+ is also one of the world’s largest superyachts in terms of volume. Topaz features sleek exteriors by Tim Heywood and the interiors conceived by UK-based studio Terence Disdale Design.
The eight-deck vessel has been built to steel displacement hull and aluminium superstructure. All the decks are connected with a lift, giving access provides access to two helipads and swimming platforms. A+ is also highlighted with a fully equipped gym, two Jacuzzi, movie theatre and a conference room. Heк large tender garage offers space for a wide choice of water toys, including jet skis, inflatable boats, catamaran and a mini-submarine.
The yacht can accommodate up to 62 guests within 26 cabins on-board, along with 79 crew members. Powered by specially designed Pielstick diesel engines of 7,990 HP each, A+ achieves her maximum speed at 25.5 knots and cruises at 22.9 knots. At anchor, particularly in rough water, her stabilisers ensure passengers’ comfort on-board.
#3. Al Said
LOA: 155m
Year: 2008
Originally referred to as Project Sunflower, steel and aluminium yacht Al Saïd gained her official name following her launch in 2008. Her exterior design by Espen Oeino resembles a classic cruise liner in many ways, complete with the twin exhaust stacks in the centre of the superstructure.
Owned by the Sultan Qaboos Al Said of Oman, fhe yacht flies the Oman flag. She can house a crew of 150 and, according to some sources, 65 guests. Lürssen reports, Al Saïd has a top speed of 22 knots. The London-based Redman Whiteley Dixon studio designed her interiors, which include a concert hall that can hold a 50-person orchestra.
Within her interior volume of 15,850 tones, Al Said features a cinema room for 50 people, as well as plenty of entertaining space dispatched amongst 6 decks, and a helipad.
#2. Dilbar
LOA: 156m
Year: 2016
Known during her highly secretive build as Project Omar, the 156-meter yacht was launched at Lürssen facility in 2015. She became Russian billionaire Alisher Usmanov's third yacht and the third yacht to bear the same name Dilbar, after the businessman’s mother.
With her gross tonnage of 15,917 tons, she has officially become the world's largest yacht by volume. Dilbar boasts exterior design by Espen Oeino and interior styling by Andrew Winch. Dilbar features a combined 3,800 square meters of living space, being able to host up to 40 guests and a crew of 80.
Following her delivery in June 2016, Lürssen also claimed two other records for Dilbar — her 180 cubic metre on-board swimming pool is believed to be the largest on any yacht, while the 30,000 kw diesel electric power plant is thought to be the most powerful ever fitted to a superyacht, giving her a cruising speed of 22.5 knots.
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 hull.
#1. Azzam
LOA: 180.6m
Year: 2013
Designed by Nauta and launched in 2013, Azzam is the flagship of the German builder’s fleet. Powered by twin diesel engines and two gas turbines, Azzam blasts off at 30 knots, which is extremely impressive for a yacht of her size. She is able to operate at high speed even in shallow waters.
Very little information is known on the vessel after her 2013 launch, because of the penchant for privacy of her owner, who is according to media sources Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed al-Nayan, President of the United Arab Emirates and Emir of Abu Dhabi.
Nauta Design’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’.
Ocean Alexander has announced the successful sale of a stunning 32 Meter Legend (32L). The sale was facilitated by Dan Aultman of MarineMax Yachts and signifies a noteworthy step for the buyer, marking their first Ocean Alexander acquisition and only their second yacht overall, highlighting a rapid ascent in the yachting world.The owner, upgrading from an 80-foot express-style yacht, was immediately drawn to the 32L after experiencing an exclusive and relaxed viewing. Dan Aultman commented, "The moment he stepped aboard, the exceptional build quality, undeniable value, and the seamless integration of the yacht into his family's lifestyle on the water became clear." He further emphasized that the 32L’s thoughtful design and attention to detail resonated deeply with the owner's vision for the next stage of his yachting journey.During the quest for the perfect yacht, the owner was particularly impressed by the spacious and comfortable accommodations offered by the 32L, in addition to its impressive array of world-class amenities and intelligent design.A standout feature that appealed to the owner was the meticulous separation of guest and crew areas, guaranteeing privacy while ensuring efficient yacht operations. The dedicated crew quarters, providing comfortable and private spaces for the crew to live and work without intruding on guest areas, were also highly valued.The on-deck master suite, featuring expansive vertical windows with uninterrupted ocean views and a dedicated night head, was another highlight. The guest cabins also made a strong impression with their generous layouts, private ensuites, and thoughtful amenities such as ample storage for luggage and a conveniently located guest refrigerator in the lower companionway.The bridge deck quickly became a favorite aspect of the yacht. Its innovative design, which combines an enclosed skylounge with an open aft bridge, provides a versatile space ideal for both entertaining and relaxing with family. The owner could easily envision this area as the primary living space, perfect for enjoying quality time together while taking in the breathtaking ocean views.What makes this sale particularly remarkable is the owner's relatively short time in yachting. Having embarked on this journey only 18 months ago, they have already created cherished memories on the water. Aultman noted, "It's been a learning curve, but the incredible experiences with family and friends have made it all worthwhile." This upgrade to a larger, more capable yacht like the 32L underscores the owner's commitment to further enhancing those experiences and embracing the world of luxury yachting.Ocean Alexander is a family business. Two generations of one family have guided the shipyard for almost four decades. With manufacturing in Taiwan, Ocean Alexander is consistently one of the top selling brands for large yachts in the U.S. and currently produces models ranging from 26 to 36 meters in length. Credits: Ocean Alexander
February 26, 2025
From today until February 28, over 100 yachting professionals are gathering in Bangkok for the 18th edition of Convergence, an annual training event organized by the Ferretti Group. The event focuses on innovation, safety, and future prospects within the yachting industry.Held in the vibrant Thai capital, Convergence provides attendees with three days of technical updates, discussions, and team-building activities. Officially opening on February 26, the event will highlight the group's recent achievements, showcase new models, and delve into the latest product innovations. An afternoon team-building exercise involves a guided tour of the Grand Palace, a historically and culturally significant site in Bangkok.The training program for 2025 centers on yachting safety, exploring topics such as emerging risks, new technologies, and changing scenarios. Notable speakers include Andrea Venturelli from RINA, Enrico Della Valentina from MARIN, Steve Clinch from Clinchmaritime Ltd, and Ulrich Heinemann from Heinemann Yacht Assessment, with Lucy Dunn moderating the discussion. In addition to the educational sessions, participants will engage in various team activities, exploring Bangkok's famous landmarks, bustling local markets, and other iconic attractions. Supported by esteemed sponsors including RINA, Sleipner, Volvo Penta, and Xenta, as well as technical partners Amare, Asea, MTU, Nanni, and Seakeeper, the event promises to foster meaningful connections and knowledge exchange within the industry.Ferretti After-Sales Services will also be present, offering attendees comprehensive information regarding their customer services tailored specifically for the group's captains. "For us, Convergence is an essential occasion to come together and learn," said Ferretti Group CEO Alberto Galassi. "Our captains represent the backbone of the Group, and we are deeply grateful for their professionalism and expertise. Events like this help us provide better tools and services to meet their evolving needs."The event concludes on February 28, leaving participants with enhanced skills, updated knowledge, and renewed enthusiasm for the future of yachting.Credits: Ferretti Group
February 25, 2025
SantaSevera is gearing up for a landmark 2025 with several key international events and fresh model introductions. Following the successful world premiere of the SantaSevera 52 at Boot Düsseldorf in January 2025, the yard is now turning its attention to establishing itself as a prominent player in the luxury yachting industry.Designed by renowned naval architect Francesco Guida, the SantaSevera range is defined by its elegant blend of contemporary design, spacious interiors, and superior performance. The SantaSevera 52 serves as the flagship model, catering to the growing demand for weekend getaways and chase boats. Its sleek aesthetics and meticulous craftsmanship reflect the hallmark qualities of Italian shipbuilding.Recognizing the importance of international exposure, SantaSevera plans to participate in several major exhibitions in 2025. From September 10th to 15th, the SantaSevera 52 will feature prominently at the Cannes Yachting Festival, followed by the Genoa International Boat Show from the 19th to the 24th. Later in the year, the brand will cross the Atlantic, with the third hull of the SantaSevera 52 slated to appear at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show in October.Production-wise, SantaSevera is currently working on four units of the SantaSevera 52, while preparations are underway for the unveiling of the SantaSevera 40 — a more compact model — at the Cannes event. This demonstrates the shipyard's unwavering commitment to innovation and adaptability in addressing diverse market needs.Additionally, SantaSevera has been actively bolstering its sales network, positioning itself to compete effectively in a dynamic marketplace. By emphasizing unparalleled quality, precision, and innovation, the brand is poised to attract discerning buyers who appreciate fine craftsmanship and stylish design.With a bold vision for the future and a burgeoning lineup of products, SantaSevera looks forward to cementing its reputation as a leading force in the global luxury yachting arena. 2025 promises to be a transformative year for the shipyard, marked by significant milestones and expanded market presence.Credits: SantaSevera
February 25, 2025
Sialia Yacht is making waves with its range of advanced, all-electric performance cruisers. These yachts, ranging from 40 to 100 feet, combine style, performance, and comfort with a strong commitment to environmental responsibility. Central to Sialia's innovative approach is its revolutionary electric drivetrain, developed by its sister company, Ampros.Sialia 45Ampros has created an electric system that incorporates a proprietary Ship Management System (SMS), a groundbreaking feature that elevates the functionality, safety, and longevity of the yachts. The SMS allows for features like extended battery operating parameters and remote monitoring, and predictive maintenance. This dedication to innovation, coupled with the yachts' construction using lifecycle-assessed and recycled materials, ensures that Sialia Yachts are not only environmentally friendly but also retain high resale values. Furthermore, Sialia Yachts backs its confidence in its technology by offering up to a 10-year warranty on its Ampros drivetrain and batteries.At the heart of Sialia's success is the collaboration between co-founder Stanislav Szadkowski, a veteran in green mobility with over two decades of experience in battery manufacturing, and Tomasz Gackowski, the founder and CEO of Ampros. Together, they have developed the most advanced systems in the industry. According to Milvio Ricci, Chief Operating Officer at Sialia Yachts, Ampros functions as a system integrator, having developed what is arguably the first truly practical and functional all-electric drivetrain in the marine market.The proprietary SMS acts as the "brain" of the drivetrain. Ricci explains that the SMS ensures the safety and optimal performance of the system by monitoring operations and enabling predictive and preventative maintenance. This capability is a key reason Sialia can offer extended warranties on its systems, including the batteries. The SMS also maximizes battery output, similar to how a performance map enhances a car engine's ECU. By safely accessing extra bands of capacity, the SMS allows Sialia yachts to utilize a greater percentage of the battery's potential. This capability has been proven by Sialia Yachts' first model, the 17.6-meter Sialia 57 "Deep Silence," which has lost only 2% of its total battery capacity over three years of extensive operation.The system also features a user-friendly graphical interface (GUI) that provides real-time information about the yacht's performance, range, and system status. The GUI also allows operators to monitor the status of pumps, cooling systems and battery systems, switch on the optional renewable-diesel range extender and more. Sialia has prioritized safety in its battery pack design. The batteries are engineered to prevent fires, with IP67-rated cases that discharge quickly if water intrusion occurs. Additionally, the batteries are installed in banks, ensuring continued operation even if one battery experiences a problem.The Ampros system at the core of Sialia Yachts is fully upgradeable, future-proofing the yachts as battery technology evolves. Owners can easily swap in new battery packs with higher capacity, instantly increasing range. The SMS also supports over-the-air (OTA) updates, allowing for on-the-fly improvements to system performance and efficiency. These features, along with the minimal maintenance needs of the electric drivetrain, ensure that Sialia Yachts will hold their value far longer than traditional yachts with combustion engines.Sialia 57 Deep Silence. Photo by BlueiprodEstablished in 2017, Sialia Yachts, owned by Silent Straits, is a company focused on sustainability and ocean-friendly innovation aiming to set new standards in yachting, with designs that inspire both enthusiasts and experts. The company offers the following models: 45, 59, and 80 Explorer. Sialia Yachts is based in Warsaw, Poland, with a team that includes members in the Netherlands and Italy.Credits: Sialia Yachts
February 25, 2025
The Italian Sea Group has announced the successful launch of Fantasy, the fourth 58-meter Perini Navi motor yacht. The vessel, constructed from steel and aluminum, features an exterior design by Philippe Briand, the renowned French architect behind Vitruvius Yachts. The launch ceremony occurred last week at the Group’s shipyard in La Spezia, fully revealing the yacht's distinctive lines for the first time. Camper & Nicholsons’ New Build Division played a crucial role in the project, providing technical surveying and project management to ensure the owner's vision was realized.The interior of Fantasy was meticulously designed by Tara Bernerd & Partners. With a beam of 9.8 meters and a volume of 800 GT, the yacht offers ample space across four decks, accommodating six guest cabins and up to eleven crew members. "Fantasy" embodies the superyacht design and naval engineering of the Vitruvius Yachts fleet, which includes notable vessels like the 50-meter M/Y Falco Moscata (formerly Exuma), the 55m M/Y Galileo G, and the 73m M/Y Nautilus (formerly Grace E).In related news, The Italian Sea Group has announced the development of a new Perini Navi motor yacht line, designed by its Centro Stile. This innovative project aims to blend the elegance of sailing yachts with the comfort and performance of motor yachts. The new line will include models ranging from 33 to 60 meters, with 40-meter and 50-meter versions also planned.Giovanni Costantino, Founder & CEO of The Italian Sea Group, stated, "We decided to continue with the product strategy of the previous Perini Navi ownership, maintaining a vision that blends the timeless elegance of sailing with the comfort and performance of motor propulsion. This new motor yacht line represents a natural evolution of the brand. As always, our focus remains on technology and innovation, integrating low environmental impact propulsion solutions, in line with our vision of sustainability and excellence.”The new Perini Navi motor yacht line will be officially presented at the next Monaco Yacht Show.The Italian Sea Group is a global operator in the luxury yachting industry, listed on Euronext Milan (“EXM”) and active in the construction and refit of motor yachts and sailing yachts up to 140 meters. The Company, led by Italian entrepreneur Giovanni Costantino, operates on the market with the brands Admiral, renown for elegant and prestigious yachts, Tecnomar, Perini Navi, and Picchiotti; the Company has a business unit, NCA Refit, that manages the maintenance and refit services for yachts and mega yachts with a length over 60 meters. Credit: The Italian Sea Group
February 25, 2025