The debate over what sailing yacht could claim the sough-after title of largest sailing yacht in the world has been a long and tedious one in yachting and with a few possible contenders in the running and more in build, it looks like the battle isn't over yet.
Indeed, whereas it is clear that 180-meter Azzam is the longest yacht in the world and Dilbar is the most voluminous, both of these are motor yachts. With sailing yachts, the ranking is however much more opaque due largely to the measurement that is used.
Loaded waterline length, known as LWL, is the measurement of the length of a vessel from the points where it sits in the water. On the other hand length overall, abbreviated as LOA, is defined as the maximum length of a yacht's hull, which for sailing yacht also includes the bowsprit, a key factor when measuring a sailing yacht and part of the difficulty in this ranking.
Length overall: 88m (289 ft)
Length at waterline: 78.21m (256 ft)
Owner: Elena Ambrosiadou
The Maltese Falcon, built by Italian shipyard, Perini Navi in Turkey for the late venture capitalist, Tom Perkins is often referred to as the largest sailing yacht in the world. Reason being, the schooner with her three rotating masts has an overall length of 88 meters and a length at waterline of 78.21 meters.
At the time of her sale in 2009 to Elena Ambrosiadou at an asking price of €70 million, the Maltese Falcon was indeed hailed by many news organisations as the largest sailing yacht in the world. The Maltese Falcon's claim to the title mainly rests on her LOA and the fact that she does not have a bowsprit to offset calculations. The sailing yacht is currently available for charter from $400,000 per week.
Length overall: 90m (295 ft)
Length at waterline: 78.25m (260 ft)
Owner: Jim Clark
Referred to as the largest sailing yacht in the world available for charter by many adverts, Athena was built in 2004 by Royal Huisman in the Netherlands for Netscape founder, Jim Clark. Designed by Gerrard Dijkstra and Pieter Beeldsnijder, the yacht is able to reach 19 knots under sail whilst still providing plenty of space across her three decks.
Currently on the brokerage market asking $69,9 million, Athena could only claim the title of world's largest sailing yacht available for charter thanks to her overall length. At 90 meters, the yacht therefore surpasses the Maltese Falcon in LOA but supporters of the Falcon always argue that their pick doesn't have such a bowsprit to account for.
Length overall: 92.93m (305 ft)
Length at waterline: 82.6m (260 ft)
Owner: Barry Diller
If one was however to go by the measures that Athena advertisers have used, she would still not be the world's largest sailing yacht even if she would outrank the Maltese Falcon in LOA. Indeed, EOS, built by Lurssen in 2006 and refitted at Royal Huisman in 2011 would take the first spot both in LWL and in LOA.
Her claim to be the largest sailing yacht in the world is however still contested by some as they claim that since Maltese Falcon doesn't have a bowsprit, her LOA should be consider, which would then allow it to top EOS' LWL. A fight in which therefore both sides present solid arguments.
Length overall: 106m (348 ft)
The landscape will however significantly change in 2017 with the upcoming delivery of Oceanco's Project Solar. At 106 meters in LOA, the Dutch shipyard's hull Y712 is expected to become the largest sailing yacht in the world upon its handover to her owner. Designed by Nuvolari Lenard, Project Solar has started sea trials in early 2017 and is expected to be delivered in the first quarter of this year.
Her claim to the title will however be contested once again by Melnichenko's 142-meter S/Y A, which was just delivered in early February 2017. Some have however voiced concerns that S/Y A is actually closer to a motor yacht by design whilst others argue she is indeed the largest private sailing yacht. Back in August 2015 she was however first introduced as a sail-assisted motor yacht. The battle for the title of the largest sailing yacht therefore continues...
Heesen Yachts has announced the sale of its latest innovation, YN 20750 Project Orion, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of sustainable luxury yachting. The 50-meter Fast Displacement Hull Form (FDHF) aluminium superyacht represents a groundbreaking fusion of advanced engineering, and eco-conscious design.Project Orion showcases Heesen’s pioneering hybrid propulsion system, delivering silent cruising capabilities up to 10 knots. The vessel’s ultra-efficient hull design and lightweight aluminium construction achieve a remarkable 30% reduction in fuel consumption. Powered by twin MTU 12V 2000 M61 (IMO III) engines, each producing 600kW, the yacht boasts a top speed of 16.3 knots and a transatlantic range of 3,750 nautical miles.With a shallow draft of 2.15 meters, Project Orion offers unparalleled versatility, seamlessly navigating both the crystal-clear waters of the Bahamas and the expansive Mediterranean. This dual-season capability is a testament to Heesen’s precision engineering and the yacht’s meticulously optimised design by van Oossanen.The yacht’s striking exterior, penned by Frank Laupman of Omega Architects, features a dramatic vertical bow and expansive floor-to-ceiling windows, creating an elegant silhouette and offering panoramic views. Interior designer Cristiano Gatto has curated a contemporary, light-filled interior, utilising over 37 different materials, including high-gloss wood veneers, woven leather, and bespoke Italian marble.The 499 GT internal volume is configured with a six-stateroom layout, including a full-beam owner’s stateroom on the main deck and a VIP suite. All fixed furniture and finishes are crafted by skilled artisans, with Cadorin’s artisan dark wood flooring and luxurious leather selections enhancing the onboard experience.“Project Orion is a testament to our commitment to advancing superyacht technology while seamlessly blending sustainability with luxury,” said Ruud van der Stroom, Heesen’s CCO. “With our innovative hybrid solutions, we are setting new standards in energy efficiency and delivering an unparalleled cruising experience.”The sale, facilitated by Anton Foord of Ocean Independence, marks a significant achievement for Heesen, demonstrating the growing demand for eco-friendly luxury yachts that do not compromise on performance or comfort. Project Orion is scheduled for delivery in mid-May.Heesen Yachts is a Dutch ship building company that specializes in custom-built superyachts in aluminum and steel from 30m to 70m in size. Founded in 1978, it has launched more than 170 yachts since its inception.Credit: RubenGriffioen/Heesen Yachts
March 25, 2025
IYC welcomed the 15 meter Sunreef Yachts Lucy to its sales fleet, listing her for sale with consultants Jamie Swaine and Andrea Gallazzi. Lucy is a rare, one-owner Sunreef 50 from 2021, offering an opportunity to acquire one of the finest sailing catamarans on the market.The yacht, which has been maintained by a single discerning owner since new, features a range of upgrades that enhance her performance, comfort, and style. Accommodating eight guests in four spacious cabins, Lucy seamlessly blends performance and comfort, making her ideal for bluewater cruising and luxury charters. Her galley-up layout ensures complete self-sufficiency, catering to both sailing aficionados and those who appreciate a luxurious entertainment experience.Offering significant savings for European buyers by virtue of VAT already being paid, Lucy represents an exceptional opportunity in a competitive market. IYC, one of the world's largest international yachting companies, operates with over 130 professionals across 15 strategically located offices worldwide.Credits: IYC
March 25, 2025
Italian builder Silent Yachts has expanded its catamaran lineup with the introduction of the SY62 3-Deck Closed. This latest addition to the SY62 series features an enclosed upper deck design, making it particularly well-suited for operation in hotter climates, especially in regions like Asia.SY62 3-Deck ClosedThe launch of the SY62 3-Deck Closed follows closely on the heels of the seventh SY62 3-Deck Open, marking another milestone for Silent Yachts in their successful start to the year. The company, which was taken over by new owners in March 2024, has demonstrated its commitment to growth with plans to launch 10 yachts in 2025, including nine SY62 models and the new flagship SY80.“We are incredibly proud of the new Closed version of the SY62 3-Deck,” said Fabrizio Iarrera, CEO of Silent Yachts. “Less than a year after taking over, we are excited to introduce this new addition to our range, which highlights our commitment to quality and innovation in solar-powered cruising catamarans.”SY62 3-Deck ClosedThe Closed version retains all the space, amenities, and comforts of the award-winning SY62 3-Deck Open, which won the prestigious World Yachts Trophies ‘Most Efficient Yacht’ award at the Cannes Yachting Festival in September 2024. The enclosed upper deck offers an exceptional owner’s studio apartment with panoramic views, accessible through glass sliding doors to a covered aft deck. SY62 3-Deck ClosedLike its sibling models, the SY62 3-Deck Closed continues to deliver Silent Yachts’ signature silent, fume-free cruising experience, making it a highly sought-after choice for eco-conscious yacht owners.Silent-Yachts is producing the world’s first fully solar-sustainable oceangoing production catamaran yachts. They are powered exclusively by solar energy and capable of cruising up to 100 miles per day. In 2009, founders Heike and Michael Köhler, who have spent 6,000 days cruising more than 75,000 miles all around the world, launched the Solarwave 46, the first fully self-sufficient blue-water catamaran after years of testing solar-powered propulsion, and they have been building boats ever since. Credits: Silent-Yachts
March 25, 2025
Turkish yard Numarine has launched the 37.2-meter Orpheus from its Kocaeli site, marking the latest addition to the 37XP model, the largest in the Numarine fleet. The 37XP series, initiated in 2021 with the launch of Alaia, is characterized by a full-displacement steel hull designed for long-range and offshore cruising.Umberto Tagliavini served as the naval architect, while Can Yalman led the exterior and interior design. A standout feature of the Orpheus is its flybridge, which spans nearly 10 meters and offers 83 square meters of open space.The yacht accommodates up to six guests across five cabins, including a main deck master suite and an upper deck VIP cabin. The VIP cabin benefits from an aft-facing bed and a terrace that can be adapted for sunbathing, outdoor sports, parties, or storing tenders. Another al fresco space is the beach club, featuring a bathing platform and a water-level lounge.Orpheus boasts a range of 6,000 nautical miles at eight knots, placing it among the elite expedition yachts in its class, according to the yard.Orpheus joins eight other 37XP models in service, with a ninth flagship, the 39-meter 40MXP, scheduled for delivery later this year.Credits: Numarine
March 24, 2025
The first unit of the Pershing GTX70, an agile and dynamic yacht embodying the innovations of the GTX series, was launched on March 19 in the port of Fano. Representing the most compact model in the range, the GTX70 captures the sporty spirit and livable spaces of its predecessors, offering an exceptional on-board experience in a more compact format.Measuring 21.88 meters in length and 5.42 meters in beam, the GTX70 is the result of collaboration between the Ferretti Group Product Strategy Committee, Vallicelli Design, and the Group’s Engineering Department. The new hull was produced at the Ferretti Group Plug and Mould facility, leveraging the brand’s advanced technology and craftsmanship, with construction completed in the new Mondolfo production area.Characterized by extensive exterior and interior spaces, the GTX70 offers an exceptionally comfortable experience, increasing on-board liveability and providing direct contact with the water. Spanning two decks and a sportbridge, the yacht accommodates up to six guests in three cabins.The exterior design, clad in classic Pershing grey, carries forward stylistic elements from the GTX series, including a slightly convex sheer line, stanchion-free design, and sleek, sweeping lines. The bow’s near-vertical shape adds to the yacht’s elegance. The beach area aft, furnished with a sunpad on this first unit, spans 23 square meters when the side terraces are open. The stern swim platform features dual-linear lift technology, increasing usable space and enabling the deployment of a jet ski or Williams 325 tender.The main deck boasts a seamless, open design, with a generous C-shaped sofa and table in the shaded cockpit. The galley is connected to the exterior and interior lounge areas via a pocket up-down glass panel, enhancing the flow of space. The use of contrasting colors, such as dark nubuck leather upholstery and muted tones, creates a visually striking atmosphere, while LED light strips illuminate the deck.Below deck, the three cabins and three en suite bathrooms optimize comfort in the sleeping area. The 16-square-meter sportbridge is divided into sunbathing, dining, and helm stations, featuring an innovative electric bimini top with prepreg carbon poles, available as an option.Powered by three 900 hp Volvo Pent D13 IPS1200 units, the GTX70 reaches a top speed of 35 knots and cruising speed of 30 knots (preliminary data).The Ferretti Group, led by Chief Executive Officer Alberto Galassi, is now one of the world’s leaders in the construction and sale of luxury yachts and pleasure vessels, with a unique portfolio of brands: Ferretti Yachts, Riva, Pershing, Itama, Mochi Craft, CRN, Custom Line and Wally.Credits: Ferretti Group
March 24, 2025