As you may have noticed, the number of yachts over 80 meters has sharply increased over the past few decades, which makes us think that we have now entered into the golden age of megayachts. As 2016 is coming to an end, we've rounded up some of the most impressive launches of the year. Here is the list of the 10 superyachts, that made quite a splash in 2016.




On 27th October 2016 Lurssen launched 123m Project Jupiter at its facility in Bremen, Germany. She features a very sporty and aggressive look similar to the owner's first yacht. With exterior design by H2 Yacht Design and interiors by March & White the yacht is scheduled for delivery in spring 2017. For both design teams this is their first Lürssen yacht, and the collaboration between all parties, including Winterbothams technical services and Y.CO Management team, has worked extremely well.




Norwegian ship builder Kleven have announced the launch of their 116m yacht project in March 2016. The yacht has been built for Graeme Hart, 60-year old businessman from New Zealand with a net worth currently valued by Forbes at 6.9 billion dollars. Designed by Marin Teknikk, a ship design company based in Norway, with the help of naval architect, Kyle Dick, the yacht is intended for long expeditions with a luxurious feel. Last week the megayacht has been handed over to her owner.

3. Y712



Dutch superyacht builder Oceanco has launched its 106m sailing yacht Y712 in September. She becomes the first sailing yacht to be entirely constructed by the shipyard. The superyacht has exterior and interior design by Nuvolari & Lenard, whilst Oceanco & Dykstra Naval Architects were responsible for the naval architecture. The 2,700 GT superyacht features a DynaRig having the ability to operate entirely on solar power. 




On Saturday, April 16, Lürssen launched project Mistral - a 100+ metre yacht, which has been designed by Espen Oeino. In June the megayacht has been spotted undergoing her sea trials.




Feadship Vertigo saw the light of day on Wednesday 23 November, which is when this 96.55-metre superyacht left the construction hall at the Feadship yard in Makkum. With the interior and exterior design by Redman Whiteley Dixon and Chahan Interior Design and Azure acting as Owner’s project manager, Vertigo’s creative execution raises the bar of superyacht design to new levels of sophistication. 




92-meter Aquarius (Project Touchdown) was launched by Feadship's De Vries yard in September. The superyacht became Steve Wynn's newest flagship, replacing his previous 67-meter Aquarius. Sinot Exclusive Yacht Design is responsible for both the exterior and interior of the superyacht, whilst the naval architecture comes from De Voogt. Aquarius' key features include a helipad on the bow, a beauty salon, a large pool on the aft main deck, a gym, massage and therapy room, jacuzzi and large outdoor deck spaces.




Benetti has launched its largest yacht to date, the 90m Lionheart, in January 2016. 90m Lionheart was built for  British business tycoon, Philip Green, who took delivery of a 63m Benetti yacht by the same name in 2006, now known as Lioness V. Lionheart overtakes the 86m Kingdom 5KR, launched in 1980, as Benetti's new flagship. Though the project has been shrouded in secrecy, it is known that Stefano Natucci collaborated with the Italian shipyard on the exterior design and Green & Mingarelli Design is responsible for the interior design.

8. Y715



Oceanco's highly confidential 88.5m superyacht, Y715, has been recently lowered into the water in Keppel Veroime in November. Launched at the end of October, she has a beam of 14.5m and a draft of 3.95m. Exterior styling and interior design are by Sam Sorgiovanni Designs. She presents a modern sporty look with a dark blue hull which is generously offset with a contrasting white superstructure.  With no sharp edges, she has a very organic form with large elliptical-shaped hull windows that complement Y715’s curvilinear profile. Further details remain confidential at this time.




The largest Amels superyacht to date emerged at its facility in Vlissingen at the end of June. Measuring 83m, HERE COMES THE SUN features an exterior design by Tim Heywood and interior style by Winch Design. As for the accommodation, there are 8 guest cabins on board and space for 27 crew. The six-decks yacht's key features include 5.5m swimming pool, 87 sqm beach club with a spa, 900 sqm of outside deck space and a garage capable of storing four jet skis and two 11m tenders. 




The sale of Amels' first Limited Edition 242 (Project Freefall) was announced back in November 2013 by the Dutch shipyard. With an exterior by Tim Heywood and an interior by Andrew Winch, the 74-meter yacht has a beam of 12.25m and a gross tonnage of 1725GT. Plvs Vltra's construction was managed by Moran Yacht & Ship.

Latest News

A Closer Look at Four Seasons Cruise Ship
Four Seasons has lifted the veil on the maiden voyages of its opulent cruise ship, set to embark on a grand tour of the Caribbean and Mediterranean in early 2026.Spanning an impressive 207 meters, the Four Seasons Yacht promises an unforgettable journey to over 130 unique destinations across 30 countries and territories. The inaugural season will feature ten voyages, inviting travelers to explore the Caribbean's hidden treasures and the Mediterranean's sun-drenched coastlines in unparalleled luxury.Departing from Fincantieri’s shipyard in Italy, the vessel will make its way westward for its debut in the Caribbean from January to March 2026. Travelers can anticipate seven nights of indulgence, visiting renowned yachting hotspots like St. Barths, Nevis, and the Grenadines. From partying in St. Barths to exploring Martinique's volcanic landscapes, each port offers a wealth of unforgettable experiences.Come March 2026, the yacht will set sail for the Mediterranean, showcasing captivating destinations such as Croatia, Santorini, and Montenegro. Guests will immerse themselves in the rich history of Athens, unwind on the pristine beaches of Santorini, and explore the charming streets of Italy.Crafted with flexibility in mind, Four Seasons' itineraries allow guests to tailor their adventures, with customizable pre-and-post hotel options available. Onboard, travelers will be treated to unparalleled luxury, with spacious suites boasting floor-to-ceiling windows, private terraces, and dual bathrooms. The vessel also features 11 dining venues, spa facilities, and a 65-foot stern pool – the epitome of indulgence at sea.“Our teams are dedicated to innovating and delivering genuine service, ensuring each journey is defined by comfort, elegance, and personalization, setting a new standard for luxury hospitality experiences at sea,” remarked Four Seasons president and CEO Alejandro Reynal.Credits: Four Seasons
A New Era in Electric Performance Boating: eD-TEC Unveils Revolutionary eD 32 c-ultra RIB
eD-TEC, the trailblazing developers behind the groundbreaking eD-QDrive 1 high-performance electric drive system, are on the brink of completing their latest innovation: the eD 32 c-ultra RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat). Crafted in collaboration with esteemed German carbon boatbuilder Sven Akermann, this 9.5-meter marvel is poised to redefine the standards of excellence in electric performance boating.The eD 32 c-ultra, a testament to innovation and design, offers unparalleled performance capabilities. Equipped with cruising and performance battery packs, this all-electric RIB can reach speeds of up to 50 knots, with a range extending up to 30 miles. What's more, its fast-charge time of just 40 minutes to reach 80 percent capacity ensures minimal downtime, maximizing time on the water.Designed with versatility in mind, the eD 32 c-ultra is foil-ready, with an optional foil-assist system that not only enhances range but also provides superior seakeeping advantages. Whether serving as a superyacht tender or catering to leisure seekers, this RIB's adaptability makes it suitable for a myriad of operational profiles.The collaboration between eD-TEC and Sven Akermann has resulted in the creation of a performance carbon monohull that embodies excellence in craftsmanship and functionality. The eD 32 c-ultra, based on a proven Akermann design, has been expertly modified to accommodate eD-TEC's state-of-the-art propulsion system, including surface drives and the eD-Technology Stack.Measuring 9.5 meters in length with a 3.2-meter beam and a draft of just 0.84 meters, the eD 32 c-ultra offers the perfect blend of performance and maneuverability. Its sleek design and compact drive system provide ample space for leisure activities, including a large sunpad and easy access to the water from a spacious bathing platform.The eD 32 c-ultra also features a central helm console with a full glass bridge, offering advanced navigation and monitoring capabilities. Extensive customization options, including alternative colors, entertainment systems, and solar panels, allow owners to tailor the RIB to their preferences.Powered by eD-TEC's revolutionary eD-QDrive 1 units, the eD 32 c-ultra delivers an unmatched boating experience. With peak power of up to 400 kW per propeller, combined with silent operation, this RIB sets a new standard for performance electric boating.As the first of its kind, the eD 32 c-ultra represents a significant milestone in the evolution of electric performance boating. With its cutting-edge design and advanced technology, it promises to revolutionize the boating market and usher in a new era of sustainable luxury on the water.Credits: eD-TEC
40m Superyacht Project UNICA Presented by ISA Yachts
ISA Yachts has officially launched the innovative 40-meter project UNICA, setting new benchmarks in the world of luxury yacht design. This semi-displacement, full-aluminum superyacht boasts a draft of just 2.2 meters, showcasing the exceptional craftsmanship and technical prowess of ISA Yachts.Collaborating with the renowned Designer Enrico Gobbi of TEAM for Design and the esteemed technical department of Palumbo Superyachts, the UNICA 40 redefines excellence in its sector. True to its name, UNICA signifies a unique specimen, unparalleled in the international yachting industry.Drawing inspiration from the latest innovations and design trends, the project introduces a host of groundbreaking features and functional solutions. With a focus on maximizing both functional spaces and volume optimization, the UNICA 40 offers generous exterior decks and expansive windows, ensuring breathtaking views and unparalleled connectivity with the surroundings.The exterior design exudes fluidity and harmony, with a seamless interplay of empty and full spaces that accentuate the vessel's natural dynamism. The carefully curated lighting design further enhances the aesthetic appeal, creating a glossy and inviting atmosphere throughout the yacht.At the stern, guests are treated to a luxurious retreat spanning three levels, complete with a sunbathing area, swimming pool, and infinity cockpit offering uninterrupted views of the sea. Meanwhile, the interiors have been meticulously designed to prioritize comfort and functionality, featuring an owner's area with an office, lounge, walk-in wardrobe, and spacious bathroom.The UNICA 40 also boasts two distinct dining areas, a formal setting on the main deck, and a more casual setup on the upper deck cockpit. The expansive bow surface on the upper deck provides additional entertainment space and a sunbathing area, while the fly deck offers an array of amenities, including sunbathing areas, a lounge, dining table, bar, and hot tub.Below deck, four double cabins offer luxurious accommodations for guests, while crew quarters accommodate seven members, including the captain's cabin positioned next to the bridge.Powered by two MTU engines with 1432 kW each, the UNICA 40 achieves a maximum speed of 20 knots and a cruising speed of 15 knots, with a range of 3300 nautical miles at 14.5 knots. Currently in build are two 80-meter projects due to become the new ISA Yachts flagships.Palumbo Superyachts took root in 2008, when the Columbus Yachts brand was established, and in 2011 it launched its first 54m superyacht, emblematically christened Prima (the First). Currently, Palumbo Superyachts comprises a representative office in Monaco and a logistics network of five shipyards in the Mediterranean (Ancona, Malta, Marseille, Naples, and Savona); it also operates the following brands: ISA Yachts, Columbus Yachts, Mondomarine and Palumbo SY Refit.Credits: ISA Yachts
Introducing Aluna 92: FDC Yachts and Red Yacht Design Set Sail with 28m Model Featuring Helipad
FDC Yachts and Red Yacht Design have joined forces once again to unveil their latest creation: the Aluna 92, a groundbreaking 28-meter yacht set to redefine luxury on the seas. Scheduled to commence construction by the end of summer 2024, this collaboration promises to set new standards in yacht design and innovation.At the heart of the Aluna 92 lies its revolutionary touch-and-go helipad, distinguishing it as the first yacht in its class capable of accommodating helicopters. This innovative feature adds an unprecedented level of convenience and luxury to the vessel, setting it apart from its peers.Building upon the success of its predecessor, the Aluna 87, the Aluna 92 represents a bold evolution in design and functionality. With an emphasis on spaciousness and comfort, the yacht offers expanded exterior living areas, including a generous sundeck and an integrated beach club, providing guests with unparalleled opportunities for relaxation and entertainment.Designed to cater to the discerning tastes of elite clientele, the Aluna 92 boasts accommodation for up to eight guests, including a lavish full-beam owner's cabin that can be easily converted into separate cabins using sliding partition walls. This flexibility ensures that every guest enjoys the utmost privacy and comfort throughout their journey.With the introduction of the Aluna 92, FDC Yachts and Red Yacht Design continue to solidify their position as industry leaders in yacht construction and design. FDC Yachts was founded is based in Bodrum, Turkey. The company specialized on refit and rebuild, with the new builds as well. Facility is built on 6.000 sqm land which has a 3.000 sqm production and 3.000 sqm hard stand area.Credits: Red Yacht Design
Image Gallery: Royal Huisman Yachts at St. Barths Bucket 2024
The St. Barths Bucket 2024 regatta has concluded, marking the end of thrilling race days filled with excitement and camaraderie.NilayaFeaturing the largest sailing yachts on the planet, the 2024 edition boasted 35 entries, collectively spanning 1.5 kilometers in length. With 200 full-time crew, 140 industry professionals, and over 1000 aficionados in attendance, the event showcased the pinnacle of sailing excellence and community spirit.NilayaAmong the notable vessels were four Royal Huisman yachts: Nilaya, Aquarius, Hanuman, and Hyperion. Nilaya secured victory in Race 3 and placed third overall in the 'Les Gazelles' class, while Aquarius claimed victory in Race 1 and secured second place overall in the same class. Hanuman and Hyperion also achieved impressive standings in their respective classes.HyperionReflecting on the event, organizers emphasized that in the spirit of the bucket, all participants were winners, highlighting the sense of camaraderie and sportsmanship that defines the St. Barths Bucket Regattas.HanumanRoyal Huisman is a Dutch shipyard established in 1884 in Ronduite, building and refitting custom luxury sailing and motor yachts at its shipyard in Vollenhove, the Netherlands.Credits: all pictures provided by Royal Huisman