#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.
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