With recent activity growth in the field of explorer yachts, marked by introduction of Oceanco's 105-meter explorer concept Esquel and Heesen's 57-metre explorer yacht XVenture, Yacht Harbour looks at the sector's largest yachts. Although the 5 largest explorer yachts launched might change in the near future, today we recall the largest ones built so far.
#5 Andromeda
Yard: Kleven (2016)
This superyacht built in 2015 was originally christened Ulysses, later in 2017 that name was handed over to her bigger sister. Andromeda was owned by New Zealand businessman Graeme Hart, up to her sale in 2017, which became the largest that year asking $175 million.
With her naval architecture developed by Norwegian Marin Teknikk and exterior design by Oscar Mike, Andromeda was produced by companies earlier known for building commercial offshore vessels. She features a helicopter pad with a hangar, as well as storage space for a 21-metre tender that requires a special crane.
#4 Le Grand Bleu
Length: 112.8m
Yard: Bremer Vulkan (2000)
Built by Bremer Vulkan and launched in 2000 with a Bannenberg & Rowell interior design, Le Grand Bleu was commissioned by John McCaw, US telecom magnate, but then sold to Roman Abramovich who enhanced it with a 16ft swimming platform. Le Grand Bleu was then passed to Eugene Shvidler, friend of Abramovich and business partner, in 2006.
Le Grand Bleu is featured with many options ensuring perfect exploration travelling. Her large tender capacity enables her to house two sports boats, a 22-metre Dubois sailing yacht and 21 metre Sunseeker motor yacht, not to mention a Land Rover that can be used to explore territories ashore.
#3 Luna
Length: 115m
Yard: Lloyd Werft (2010)
Refreshened through a €50 million refit that came following a change in ownership, Luna was delivered in 2010. Currently the 3rd largest explorer in the world, her open aft deck and swimming pool have set a standard for the yachting industry.
Built for Russian billionaire, Roman Abramovich, Luna was originally intended as a more sleek version of her owner's existing explorer, the 113-meter Le Grand Bleu. At the time of her launch, the swimming pool installed on Luna was the largest that anyone had ever seen onboard a superyacht.
Luna's current owner, which Forbes names as Farkhad Akhmedov, purchased the yacht from Abramovich in 2014. The man, valued at $1,3 billion by the magazine, later initiated a 14-month refit in Germany that gave the yacht a sleek exterior look and implemented several improvements on one of the world's most iconic yachts.
#2 Ulysses
Length: 116m
Yard: Kleven (2018)
The enhanced, larger version of the 107-meter Ulysses (now Andromeda), this yacht was also built by Kleven in Norway for New Zealand-based billionaire Graeme Hart.
Ulysses' naval architecture was developed by Norwegian design house Marin Teknikk, with her exterior concept devised by New Zealand design studio Oscar Mike Naval Architects, and interior design by British studio RWD. Her key features include a helicopter hangar at the top deck, along with a storage for Bell 429 helicopter. Ulysses is also equipped with a wide range of tenders, with a 21-metre Princess 68 yacht among others.
#1 Octopus
Length: 126m
Yard: Lurssen (2003)
This largest explorer yacht in the world built by German shipyard Lurssen in 2003, has not been surpassed in 16 years. She belonged to Paul Allen, one of Microsoft founders, who passed away in late 2018. As Allen once said: "Octopus is less a Bentley than a Range Rover".
As part of this, the yacht is fitted with two submarines, one of which can dive for up to 8 hours with 10 people on it, the second submarine can be remotely controlled. Thanks to this equipment, Allen and his crew were able to locate a WW2 era battleship at the bottom of the ocean in the Philippines.
The billionaire had previously also made available his yacht to the Royal Navy in order to find a British battleship underwater. On a leisure side, Allen lent Mick Jagger the recording studio onboard for him to record an album in 2011, other performers have included Usher, U2 and Johnny Cash.
The largest explorer yacht in the world, Octopus can accommodate up to 26 guests thanks to her spacious staterooms and is operated by a crew of 60. Other amenities found onboard include a second helipad, 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.
Arcadia Yachts has launched the first unit of its A80new model from its Sorrento shipyard, with a third hull sold for delivery in 2026. The 23.98-meter yacht will make its official debut at the Cannes Yachting Festival 2025.The design addresses Mediterranean cruising regulations including Posidonia Oceanica protection measures. The widebody configuration provides interior volumes comparable to larger yachts while maintaining under-24-meter classification. The layout includes a main deck master suite with direct sea access and four lower deck guest cabins. Crew accommodations consist of two double cabins with separate bathrooms.Technical features include solar panel systems and optimized energy management components. A stern garage accommodates tenders up to 3.95 meters or water toys. The design emphasizes compliance with environmental regulations while maintaining cruising capabilities in protected marine areas.Arcadia Yachts CEO Ugo Pellegrino stated: "A80new confirms the evolution of our products, a process that began two years ago with A96new. We want to continue to play a leading role in the development of yachting that respects nature, including underwater nature."The sale of the third hull to existing Arcadia owners demonstrates continued market demand for the yard's approach to midsize yacht construction. The model will compete in the under-24-meter segment against offerings from other Mediterranean shipyards.The Cannes Yachting Festival presentation will mark the first public showing of the A80new, following the company's pattern of introducing new models at major European boat shows. Arcadia Yachts continues production at its Naples-area facility, maintaining its focus on solar-assisted yacht systems and compliance with evolving environmental regulations.Arcadia Yachts is based in Naples, Italy. Since 2008, Arcadia Yachts has been building semi-custom luxury composite yachts and has succeeded in perfectly integrating artisanal craftsmanship, modern technologies, attention to detail and to the surrounding environment. The Arcadia Yachts fleet has included two ranges since September 2016. The shipyard’s first and most characterizing range is the A range, which includes four models (A85, A85s, A105 and A115). The Sherpa range has a new model, the 24m Sherpa XL, which was launched at the 2019 Cannes Yachting Festival. The new model, A96, debuted at 2023 Cannes Yachting Festival.Credits: Arcadia Yachts
September 3, 2025
The Azimut|Benetti Group forecasts €1.5 billion in revenue for the 2024/2025 nautical season, representing a 15% increase over previous results. The company's current order backlog totals €2.5 billion with production scheduled through 2029.Three strategic priorities guide the Group's operations: €115 million in infrastructure investments, expansion of product categories targeting both experienced and new-generation owners, and penetration of emerging markets. The company maintains geographically diversified orders with 38% from Europe, 31% from the Americas, and 31% from EMEA-APAC regions.Infrastructure developments include upgrades to the Avigliana production facility for yachts up to 28 meters, a Light Steel Hub for vessels under 45 meters, and a Composite Hub in Tuscany specializing in fiberglass and carbon fiber processing for megayachts. The Lusben refit division continues to expand its specialized service capabilities.Product innovation focuses on two primary segments: Azimut's Seadeck series emphasizing reduced environmental impact and the Grande series between 26-40 meters, alongside Benetti's Oasis and B.Yond families emphasizing connection with marine environments. The Group plans September introductions of new voyager-class yachts from Azimut and a new category combining motor yacht comfort with sailing inspirations from Benetti.Market expansion continues with new showrooms in Monaco adjacent to the Monaco Yacht Club and Fort Lauderdale's Pier Sixty-Six development. The Middle East represents the fastest-growing market, increasing from 23% to 31% of order portfolio, with Saudi Arabia generating over €300 million in sales during the past 24 months. New offices will open in Jeddah (Azimut) and Riyadh (Benetti).The Asia-Pacific region maintains established representation through direct offices and dealer networks across Japan, China, Australia, and Southeast Asian markets. Despite new import tariffs, the Americas remain a crucial market where the Group maintains leadership positions in multiple yacht categories.The Group's production infrastructure and order portfolio demonstrate continued resilience amid market fluctuations, with strategic investments targeting both operational efficiency and market expansion through fiscal year 2025/2026.Credits: Azimut|Benetti Group
September 3, 2025
Feadship has become a member of the Nuclear Energy Maritime Organization (NEMO), an industry group focused on developing regulatory frameworks for floating nuclear power applications. The membership aligns with Feadship's energy transition strategy initiated in 2020.The shipyard's research and development program has included assessment of nuclear propulsion systems for superyachts, examining technical requirements and operational implications. Current barriers to adoption include unresolved regulatory issues regarding radiation safety, port access restrictions, and operational limitations in ecologically sensitive areas.Giedo Loeff, Feadship's Head of Innovation and Strategy, stated: "Joining NEMO aligns with our vision to explore every credible pathway toward a sustainable future. Nuclear power may not be tomorrow's solution for superyachts, but it could be part of the long-term horizon."Fourth-generation nuclear reactor technology has potential maritime applications including offshore power generation and zero-emission propulsion for large vessels. Feadship's participation in NEMO will focus on contributing to safety standards and operational guidelines for nuclear technologies at sea.Giedo LoeffThe company's energy transition roadmap has previously incorporated multi-fuel systems and fuel cell integration projects. Nuclear propulsion represents a potential long-term solution for carbon-neutral operations, though economic and crew training requirements present significant implementation challenges.Feadship's membership in NEMO reflects the superyacht industry's increasing engagement with alternative propulsion technologies. The organization brings together maritime stakeholders to address regulatory gaps for floating nuclear applications, with particular focus on safety protocols and international compliance standards.Based in the Netherlands and with roots dating back to 1849, Feadship was formed as a group in 1949 as a marketing partnership between six Dutch shipyards, de Vries Lentch, Van de Stadt, Witsen & Vis, Akerboom, De Vries Scheepsbouw and Van Lent Shipyard, and De Voogt Naval Architects. Feadship is well-known as one of the Netherlands’ most elite yacht builders and delivers superyachts from 50–100+ meters in length.Credits: Feadship
September 3, 2025
The Italian Sea Group will participate in the Cannes Yachting Festival from September 9-14, 2025, exhibiting vessels at both Vieux Port and Port Canto locations. The company's display will include the Picchiotti Gentleman 24 and Tecnomar for Lamborghini 63 models at the Super Yachts Extension 146 area.Gianmaria Costantino, Chief Commercial Officer of The Italian Sea Group, stated: "The Cannes Yachting Festival is a key strategic event for us – a unique opportunity to strengthen our presence in international markets and engage with owners, partners, and leading industry players."The 24-meter Picchiotti Gentleman features design by Luca Dini Design & Architecture, combining wooden superstructure elements with steel details. The model presents a contemporary interpretation of traditional yacht design elements.The Tecnomar for Lamborghini 63 represents a collaboration with Automobili Lamborghini, incorporating carbon fiber components and automotive-inspired design features. The yacht's design includes signature lighting elements and a cockpit configuration derived from automotive influences.The exhibition demonstrates The Italian Sea Group's continued focus on the luxury yacht market through its multiple brand portfolio. The company's participation aligns with its strategy of presenting distinct design philosophies across its product ranges.The Cannes Yachting Festival expects approximately 50,000 visitors and 500 exhibitors for its 2025 edition. The Italian Sea Group will maintain its exhibition space in the superyacht section of the event, which features vessels exceeding 24 meters in length.The company's presentation emphasizes its dual approach to yacht design, balancing traditional nautical aesthetics with automotive-inspired performance concepts. Both exhibited models represent current production offerings from the group's shipyards in Italy.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
September 2, 2025
Aiata, part of Turkey's Anadolu Group, will participate in the 65th Genoa International Boat Show from September 18-23, 2025. The shipyard will display its 11.57-meter Wayfinder 38 Cabin model at the Levante Waterfront exhibition area.The Wayfinder 38 Cabin version features a 3.49-meter beam and accommodates outboard engines up to 850 horsepower. The design emphasizes modular reconfiguration capabilities, including convertible seating arrangements, removable sunbeds, and interchangeable enclosed/open structural elements.The model targets coastal cruising, weekend excursions, and fishing activities with interior spaces designed for extended onboard stays. Storage solutions and layout flexibility allow owners to modify configurations after purchase to accommodate changing usage requirements.Aiata's participation represents the Turkish yacht industry's continued expansion into European markets. The Genoa exhibition provides a platform for the builder to demonstrate its production capabilities and design approach to Mediterranean boating audiences.The Wayfinder series forms part of Aiata's strategy to combine performance characteristics with adaptable interior layouts. The company emphasizes post-purchase configuration options as a value proposition for owners seeking long-term vessel versatility.The Genoa International Boat Show expects approximately 100,000 visitors during its six-day run, featuring over 1,000 vessels from international manufacturers. Aiata's exhibition will focus on the practical applications of its modular design philosophy in mid-size motor yachts.Credits: Aiata
September 2, 2025