If you've ever thought about yachting, chances are some specific images jump to your mind. The fact is, those images are most influenced by social networks and virality than ever before. We've decided to take a look at what are the most viral yacht images of the past few years and at the stories behind them.
To establish these rankings we've looked at Google's image index, social sharing signals collected through crawling tools, mentions in mainstream media and interest on networks such as Instagram.
#1 Tropical Island Paradise
A perfect example of viral content, this 90m concept by Yacht Island Design named 'Tropical Island Paradise' is centered around a Caribbean-like theme. The design company states in its brief that the goal of the project was to create an "idyllic, floating island, with all the features of a tropical island getaway built into the design".
Based in Derby, UK, the design firm led by Rob McPerson, stated that the main purpose of this design was to create something fun and different from the current state of the market.
#2 J'Ade's tender garage
There is a good chance you've already seen images from the photo shoot of J'Ade and her innovative garage which a tender can float into through a side door in the hull. Shared over 25,000 times on Facebook alone, these images have been used in articles by mainstream publications such as GQ, Buzzfeed and the Daily Mail.
Float-in garages had actually been done before J'ade which was built in 2013 by CRN but never on a 60m yacht and through a dedicated side entrance. Pumps installed onboard allow the 18.400 liters tank to be emptied in under three minutes. The yacht is now for sale asking 36,950,000€.
#3 Aloha sinks in Mykonos
On August 20th 2015, the 33m M/Y Aloha sank in Mykonos after running aground on a reef. No injuries were reported but the yacht happened to sink near a populated area allowing amateur photographers to capture many images of the half submerged yacht.
Mentioned over a 1,000 times on the web, this photograph made its way through mainstream media such as RT and Metro.
#4 SeaXplorer
At the 25th edition of the Monaco Yacht Show, Damen, parent company of Amels, introduced the SeaXplorer range. Famous, in-part, for launching the support vessel range, Sea Axe, Damen designed the SeaXplorer series to explore remote polar and tropical areas.
The subsequent PR campaign caught the attention of most media organizations with Business Insider, the Telegraph, CNN and many other reporting on the concept. As a consequence, the 3D mockups of the yacht in polar regions in particular have gone viral on the net.
#5 Silver Fast and Mercedes
It might seem like a given that when two iconic brands such as Mercedes and Silver Yachts join on a marketing campaign, it works. This particular co-marketing effort was promoting the S-Class S500 cabriolet to potential clients interested in yachtin.
The video presentation got over 75,000 views on YouTube and was covered by Maxim, Business Insider and other large organization. Silver Fast is now for sale.
#6 A
The 119m A, owned by Russian billionaire, Andrei Melnichenko, is perhaps one of the most iconic yachts and often springs debates across industry professionals. Data however shows that the A is often looked at and the photo above is the most shared on social media across all of the photo coverage of the yacht: 603 links on the web.
#7 Serene
Originally commissioned by Yuri Schefler, owner of Stolichnaya, from Ficantieri, an Italian shipyard specialized in larger ships, the 134m Serene has since changed owners. The photo above was shared a numerous of times in social media and linked to by 596 websites. It has reportedly been taken during a photo shoot that included interior pictures and might have indicated the fact that the yacht was being marketed for sale.
#8 Admiral X Force 145
The Admiral X Force 145 yacht concept is a 465-foot created by Dobroserdov Design in a partnership with Admiral Centro Stile and The Italian Sea Group. Boasting two pools, two helipads and large chandeliers, the concept got its largest audience from not one, but two Business Insider articles which got shared over 3,500 times on Facebook alone.
#9 4Yacht's introduction of Triple Deuce
In October 2014, yacht broker, Craig Timm issued a press release stating that he had secured a contract for the build of a 222m megayacht from an undisclosed buyer. The statement came complete with promotional images and approximate cost which is peculiar in such statements.
To this date, there is still no hard evidence that such a project is underway. The images however have gone around the web and CNN even did a story on the project.
#10 The Calibre 102m project
Perhaps it is the labeling of some articles in the yachting press that introduced the Calibre 102 project as worthy of a Bond villain or its unusual hull color that made the 3D mock ups some of the most shared yacht images on Instagram.
The yacht concept in fact is inspired by fast ferries and was created by Mahjoub El Mahmoudi of MUB Design.
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