#1 Lurssen | Azzam | 180m
Lurssen is one of the world’s leading shipyards. The German-based company was established over 141 years ago with headquarters in Bremen-Vegesack and five further yards in northern Germany. Lurssen has built 7 of the top 10 largest yachts and has recently launched the 155m Dilbar (Project Omar), scheduled to be delivered soon to Mr Usmanov. The shipyard employs over 1,000 people at its Bremen facility alone.
Azzam, the largest yacht in the world at a length of 180 meters, was delivered to Cheikh Khalifa, the emir of Abu Dhabi, in 2013. Not many details about the vessel are known, but it is confirmed that Mubarak Saad al Ahbabi directed the technical engineering. Azzam is speculated to have a price around 400 million pounds.
#2 Blohm + Voss | Eclipse | 162.5m
Blohm + Voss was founded in 1877 by Hermann Blohm and Ernst Voss. The shipyard specializes in the construction of naval vessels and megayachts, as well as repairs, refits, and modifications of merchant ships. In 2005 the firm was acquired by ThyssenKrupp AG. The new owners instructed the yard not to build any new yachts as of 2008. This ban was lifted in 2012 when the shipyard’s civilian operations were sold to London-based private equity firm, Star Capital.
Demoted from the rank of the largest superyacht in 2013 by Azzam, Eclipse has dominated the superyacht rankings for 3 years with a tremendous length of a 162.5m. Owned by Russian billionaire, Roman Abramovich, Eclipse is Blohm+Voss' flagship. Built in a shroud of secrecy in 2010 to a design by Terence Disdale, Eclipse features a 16-meter long swimming pool convertible into a dance floor, a three-man private submarine, an exterior fireplace as well as space for six tenders and three helicopters.
#3 Helsingor Værft | Prince Abdulaziz | 147m
Helsingor Værft was founded in 1882. Based in Denmark, the shipyard builds different types of ships and marine engines.
Prince Abdulaziz was built by the yard in 1984. At the time of delivery, the yacht was the largest in the world, retaining its status for 22 years. The project is speculated to have cost $184m. Maierform was responsible for the yacht's naval architecture, whilst David Hicks styled her interior. Among her amenities are a cinema, a mosque and a fully equipped hospital. Prince Abdulaziz has since been refitted in 1987, 1996 and 2005.
#4 Samuda Brothers | El Horriya | 145.7m
Samuda Brothers was a shipyard, founded by Jacob and Joseph d'Aguilar Samuda. The firm started working in London in 1843. Samuda Brothers specialized in building iron and steel warships. In 1863 they were producing double the output of all other London shipyards combined.
El Horriya was built in 1865 on the banks of the Thames for the Ottoman governor of Egypt, Khedive Ismail. During the refit in 1872, the yacht was lengthened by 12m and in 1905 she grew by another 5,1m. Her last major rebuild was in 1950. Now she is the Egyptian presidential vessel and is usually moored in Alexandria.
#5 Nobiskrug | Sailing yacht A 142.8m
Nobiskrug was founded in 1905 by Otto Stork in Rendsburg. With more than 750 vessels delivered, Nobiskrug collaborates with the famous yacht designers and not only builds the projects, but also provides refit services.
With masts taller than the Statue of Liberty, S/Y A is on track to becoming the largest sailing yacht in the world at 145 meters in length. Commissioned by Andrei Melnichenko, owner of M/Y A, the project's rig and keel were designed by Dutch-based Dykstra Naval Architects. Philippe Starck was responsible for her exterior and interior design.
#6 De Schelde / Abu Dhabi MAR (rebuild) | Yas | 141m
ADM Shipyards is one of the leading shipbuilders in the Persian Gulf. Established in 2008, 30% of the shipyard is owned by Privinvest, the holding company behind Nobiskrug and CMN.
Yas was relaunched in 2011 after being converted from a Dutch frigate built in 1978. The redesign was handled by French studio, Pierrejean Design. Yas accommodates up to 60 guests and a crew of 56. Her alluring features include an automatic stern platform, amazing outdoor pool and spa, a helipad, a highly-sophisticated audio-visual entertainment system as well as a garage for water toys.
#7 Fincantieri | Ocean Victory | 140m
Founded in 1959, Fincantieri is the largest shipbuilder in Europe. After the acquisition of the Norwegian group VARD, the Fincantieri group doubled in size to become the fourth largest in the world. The company builds both commercial and military vessels.
Following an order placed in 2009, Fincantieri has delivered, after 5 years of construction, the 140m Ocean Victory in December 2014. Designed by Espen Oeino and Alberto Pinto together with Sessa Romboli, the yacht was delivered to steel magnate, Viktor Rashnikov. Capable of accommodating up to 36 guests, Ocean Victory is packed with luxurious features such as 6 pools spread out over her 7 decks, an internal floodable dock to house her 14m tender, two helipads and a vast spa area.
#8 Kusch Yachts | Al Mirqab | 133m
Kusch Yachts was founded in 1981 by Claus Kusch in Germany and first acted primarily as consultants on new build projects. The company has since evolved into being able to offer new build construction and refit facilities.
Built in 2008 to a famous Tim Heywood exterior design and Andrew Winch interior design, Al Mirqab has a length of 133 meters. She is capable of accommodating 36 guests, as well as 45 crew. She is owned by Hamad bin Jassim bin Jaber Al Thani, Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Qatar.
#9 Elefsis | Maryah | 125m
Elefsis Shipyards is a Greek shipbuilding company founded in 1962. The yard has built bulk carriers, fast ferries and completed ship conversions.
Launched in 2014, Maryah is all-steel, full-displacement motor yacht. Originally launched in Poland in 1991 as a Russian research vessel, she has been completely rebuilt at Elefsis Shipyards. H2 Yacht Design was responsible for her exterior and interior. Built to SOLAS regulations, Maryah is able to accommodate up to 54 guests.
#10 Flender Werke | Alexander | 122m
Flender Werke was a German shipbuilding company, located in Lubeck. It was founded in 1917 as a branch of Bruckenbau Flender AG. Later it became one of the largest shipyards in Germany, constructing 700 vessels in all. After World War II, Flender Werke continued to build merchant ships, and in 1973 the company was renamed Flender Werft AG. In 2002 they were forced to close because of insolvency.
Alexander is a megayacht unlike many others in her class. Built in 1965 and converted in 1985, Alexander was one of the earliest private yachts to breach the 100m barrier. The vessel’s interior was refitted in 1998 with a more recent upgrade to the master cabin completed in 2008. The yacht is now a popular charter yacht catering to parties of up to 80 guests.
Custom Line concluded 2024 with the launch of two new yachts, bringing the total number of vessels introduced at the Ferretti Group Superyacht Yard in Ancona to 18 over the past year. Among the launches were the Custom Line 50, the brand’s first all-aluminium 50-meter displacement superyacht, and the Custom Line Navetta 38, a 299 GT displacement yacht. The first units of these models were launched in January and November, respectively.Custom Line 50The shipyard completed eleven launches in the Navetta line, six in the planing line, and one in the aluminium superyacht line. A new Custom Line Navetta 30 was launched on December 4, marking the 22nd hull in this displacement line. The yacht, measuring 28.43 metres in length with a beam of 7.3 metres, was developed by the Product Strategy Department and the Ferretti Group Engineering Department, in collaboration with ACPV ARCHITECTS Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel for the interiors and Filippo Salvetti for the exterior styling. Custom Line Atelier provided strategic consulting to adapt the interior design to the owner's stylistic preferences. Custom Line Navetta 38The year concluded with the launch of the 33rd Custom Line Navetta 33 on December 16. The vessel was developed by the Product Strategy Committee and the Ferretti Group Engineering Department, with Custom Line Atelier overseeing the owner's requests. The yacht, measuring 33 metres in length with a beam of 7.52 metres, was designed for charter operations and includes a number of customised features such as pullman beds in the guest cabins, additional storage units, and cocktail bars on the sun deck. The interior incorporates materials such as Irish Green marble in the master bathroom and American walnut flooring. The yacht’s colour scheme reflects the owner's preference for sage green, integrated in various elements throughout the interior.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
January 30, 2025
Ocean Independence recorded a 22% increase in retail charter income in 2024 compared to the previous year, with several yachts in its Central Agency Fleet surpassing typical seasonal booking targets. The most frequently booked yacht was Onyx, securing over ten weeks of charter, followed closely by E-Motion and Isotta.OnyxChief Commercial Officer Toby Maclaurin stated, “We are very pleased with the 2024 charter result. It was a key pillar to the company’s overall performance and we expect a similar, if not better, result in 2025. Chartering large yachts is in vogue and we are well prepared to meet the needs of a wide variety of customers with our portfolio. Of course, we can also reserve any other available charter yacht for our customers.”The list of top-performing charter yachts in 2024 was led by Onyx, a 25.48-meter Ferretti-built yacht from 2007. The vessel accommodates up to ten guests in four staterooms and offers a spacious aft deck, alfresco dining areas, and a hot tub. Charter rates start from EUR 40,000 per week.E-MotionE-Motion, a 40-metre Sunseeker, was also among the most-booked yachts. It offers accommodation for ten guests across five staterooms, including a full-beam master suite and convertible twin staterooms. Charter rates begin at EUR 170,000 per week.IsottaIsotta, a Ferretti 1000 motor yacht, was another high-performing vessel. It features an innovative aft beach area and a spacious flybridge. The yacht accommodates up to ten guests in five staterooms, with rates starting from EUR 114,000 per week.VertigeVertige, a 50-meter yacht built by Tankoa in 2017, also saw strong bookings. The aluminium-built vessel features minimalist deck spaces and a contemporary interior by Francesco Paszkowski, accommodating 12 guests in six staterooms. Charter rates start at EUR 270,000 per week.HuboHubo, an Azimut 85 delivered in 2015, remains a popular choice among charterers. The yacht accommodates eight guests in four staterooms, including a full-beam master suite. Rates start from EUR 40,000 per week.With demand for large yacht charters increasing, Ocean Independence is advising early bookings for the 2025 season. Helene Delstanche, Group Charter Fleet Manager, commented, “To secure your dream yacht, I suggest calling us rather sooner than later. 2025 bookings are already strong, and demand will only get higher as we get closer to springtime.”Credits: Ocean Independence
January 30, 2025
Sialia Yachts will showcase its fully electric 57-foot model, the Sialia 57 Deep Silence, at the Miami International Boat Show from February 12-16, 2025. The yacht will be presented in collaboration with Yacht Sales International, Sialia Yachts’ official dealer in North America, and will be located at One Herald Plaza, Dock B (3rd intersection).The Sialia 57 Deep Silence is equipped with a proprietary drivetrain featuring a 256 kWh battery, which can be upgraded to 1 MWh, and twin 400 kW electric motors. The yacht has a cruising speed of 16 knots and can exceed 25 knots at full speed. Its carbon fiber hull, optimized by Vripack, measures 16 feet in beam and is designed for stability and efficiency.The model accommodates up to 12 passengers and includes a climate-controlled cockpit, multiple lounge areas, a beach club with folding sides, and a garage for an 11-foot tender. It is also fitted with fast-charging capabilities to reduce downtime. A biofuel-compatible range extender is available to increase operational flexibility.Sialia Yachts emphasizes lifecycle considerations in its construction process, using carbon hulls that are more recyclable and durable than traditional GRP. The electric propulsion system is designed to require minimal maintenance, with electric motors needing only a grease change every 10 years. The batteries are rated for 30,000 cycles and come with a five-year guarantee, along with the rest of the propulsion system. The yacht’s technology is designed to be upgradable, allowing for extended operational longevity and reduced depreciation.Established 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: Blueiprod/Sialia Yachts
January 30, 2025
Arcon Yachts has confirmed the sale of two new-build Benetti Oasis 40M models, with both units scheduled for delivery in 2027. The 40.8-meter yachts will be constructed at Benetti’s facility in Livorno, Italy.The Oasis 40M series is one of Benetti’s most established lines, recognized for its Oasis Deck, which features a 90-square-meter open space with a flat platform, two unfolding gunwales that create overwater balconies, an infinity pool, and multiple seating areas. The design is intended to maximize outdoor living and provide an extended connection to the water.Accommodation is arranged across five cabins, including a main deck master suite. According to the broker, the interiors will emphasize contemporary design, though further details have yet to be disclosed. Exterior styling for the series is by British studio RWD, while the interiors are developed by Bonetti / Kozerski architecture.Powered by twin MAN engines, the standard performance specifications of the Oasis 40M include a maximum speed of 18 knots and a cruising speed of 12 knots. The yacht has a beam of 8.5 meters and a draft of 2.1 meters.Founded in 1873, Benetti is the oldest Italian shipyard specializing in luxury yachts. Benetti designs, builds and sells composite vessels from 29 to 44m and steel and aluminum boats from 37 to over 100m. The fleet consists of five categories: Class, Oasis, B.Yond, B.Now and Custom to meet all the needs of the market. Benetti belongs to the Azimut|Benetti Group, the largest privately owned luxury yachting group in the world.Credits: Benetti
January 29, 2025
Italian yacht builder Pardo Yachts is charting a course for significant expansion into the Middle East, announcing an exclusive dealership agreement with Dubai-based Ocean 360 and a highly anticipated debut at the Dubai International Boat Show 2025. This strategic move underscores the brand's commitment to establishing a strong presence within one of the world's most discerning yachting markets.Pardo 43The partnership with Ocean 360, a leading provider of premium yacht services, will see Pardo Yachts showcase its renowned craftsmanship and innovative designs to the UAE and wider Gulf region. The Dubai International Boat Show, running from February 19th-23rd, 2025, will serve as the ideal platform to unveil the brand's flagship models, the Pardo 38 and Pardo 43.Pardo 38"The Middle East represents a strategically important market for Pardo Yachts' global growth," commented Marcello Veronesi, CEO of Cantiere del Pardo. "Partnering with the established and respected Ocean 360 provides us with the ideal platform to connect with discerning clients who appreciate the unparalleled quality and style synonymous with our yachts."Sebastian Dumitrescu, CEO of Ocean 360, added: "We are privileged to represent Pardo Yachts as their exclusive dealer in the UAE. Their commitment to innovative design and exceptional craftsmanship aligns seamlessly with our dedication to providing world-class yachting experiences. We are thrilled to introduce these stunning yachts to clients throughout the region."Marcello Veronesi, Sebastian Dumitrescu, Bogdan Borascu and Rok Babarovic (photo by Luca D'Ambrosio)Visitors to the Dubai International Boat Show can experience the epitome of Italian yachting excellence firsthand. The Pardo 38 and Pardo 43, both representing the pinnacle of Pardo's walkaround range, will be on display, showcasing the brand's intelligent use of space and unwavering commitment to bespoke luxury. These models epitomize the perfect harmony of aesthetic appeal and superior functionality, offering unparalleled comfort and performance.Cantiere del Pardo was founded in 1973 in Italy. Pardo Yachts, the brand of Cantiere del Pardo dedicated to powerboats, was born in 2016. The first model, the Pardo 43, was launched in 2017. Grand Soleil was founded in 1973 and is famous for its yachts, which ensure performance for regattas, autonomous long-distance navigation, as well as a high level of sustainable consciousness.Credits: Cantiere del Pardo
January 29, 2025