superyacht definition

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What makes a superyacht a superyacht.

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A superyacht with the best limousine tender provides plenty of "billionaire bragging rights."

Each of the largest, most expensive, most over-the-top yachts in the world are custom-built creations that represent the pinnacle of creativity, craftmanship, luxury and yes… billionaire bragging rights . But the question I’m often asked is…what makes a superyacht a superyacht? Is there a minimum price, or size, or other criteria that separates “super” yachts from much more common “yachts?” Does a superyacht require its own helicopter? What about a swimming pool(s) or IMAX theater?

Guests onboard the the Onda 321L limousine tender can rocket from the mothership to the dock without ... [+] ever getting their hair messed up.

Well, the answer is, yes and no. There is no “law” that says all yachts over a certain length, price or equipment must be called superyachts. However, the largest and most expensive yachts in the world are always (and obviously) referred to superyachts. And Wikipedia only muddies the water by quoting several sources in this vague attempt at a definition: “A superyacht or megayacht is a large, luxurious, professionally crewed motor or sailing yacht, ranging from 24 meters (79 ft) to more than 180 meters (590 ft) in length. Superyachts are often available for charter with a staff that caters to guests at a high standard of comfort.”

The interior of a superyacht limo is as luxurious as you think it'd be.

So, without even getting into the question of what’s the difference between a superyacht, megayacht or “gigayacht” (the three new 300-foot-long Benetti’s that were launched earlier this year have been called “gigayachts”). Or debating the fact that all superyachts are usually equipped with a wide range of “toys” that include everything from jet skis and speedboats to personal submarines . I may have found a very simple (and universal) metric.

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Superyacht limos are highly engineered to provide maximum comfort.

All superyachts are opulent enough to be equipped with an object that represents the epitome of luxury—a limousine tender—like the Onda 321L . And like most yacht limos, it’s comprised of three distinct zones. The helm is separated from the guest area in the front of the boat. The back section is comprised of a large teak swim and boarding platform, while the large covered section in the middle is a luxurious as it gets.

A superyacht limo that is deployed from the mothership is the epitome of luxury.

The interior features two hand stitched leather couches that are large enough for ten guests to travel from the mothership to anywhere on land in air-conditioned comfort. In addition, it has a number of extra features including a high-end entertainment system, espresso machine and champagne cooler.

Is your yacht tender a cross between a limo and a Ferrari?

“The Onda 321L is an outstanding luxury service boat,” George Riginos, CEO at Onda Tenders, said. “It has a special hull form that allows more space inside the cabin. Also, it starts planning at lower speeds, only from 10 knots, which is amazing. Therefore, the ride is much smoother and top speed is higher than usual for comparable tenders. It is as if a limousine was crossed with a Ferrari .

Not every superyacht is fitted out with a limousine that's crossed with a Ferrari. But I will say this: Every superyacht has a limousine.

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Megayacht VS. Superyacht

A yacht is known as a luxury watercraft that helps people having the enjoyment of recreation. Two terms that fall under a “yacht” are “megayacht” and “superyacht”. Both terms often get used interchangeably, but in this blog, we will discuss the differences.

Ranging from 80 feet in length up to the staggering 592 feet of AZZAM, the world’s largest private yacht, superyachts can be sailing yachts, motor yachts, motor sailors – or even stylishly converted tugs, or military vessels. In general, yachts are either considered a motor yacht or sailing yacht, depending on how the boat is powered. A sailing yacht is powered by sails or winds, while a motor yacht is powered by engines.

The term “megayacht” is often used interchangeably with the term “superyacht”, which is used to refer to any privately owned yacht over 80 feet in length.

Superyachts for sale and megayachts for sale can vary enormously in size, yacht price, facilities and performance. Some yachts are used exclusively for owners use or are available for part time commercial charter.

Luxury yachts typically offer a huge guest area, giving people the options for both entertainment as well as relaxation in such yachts. These vessels are commercially operated (motor or sail powered) and are professionally crewed.

Superyachts Explained

Although there is no true definition, a superyacht is considered to be a yacht that is at least 78-feet or 24-meters. A superyacht is synonymous with luxury and glamor, affording families and friends the freedom to travel the world’s most glittering destinations in ultimate comfort and privacy.

A superyacht will normally be crewed, and have luxurious accommodations for 6 to 12 guests, as well as sophisticated communal living areas. Superyachts for sale offer elegant entertaining and dining areas, while most come with Jacuzzis, swim platforms on the waterline, and a huge array of watertoys.

Click to view all superyachts for sale worldwide here, including images and specifications to begin your superyacht adventure.

Megayachts Explained

Exact definitions of mega yachts vary tremendously, although some believe that around 200 feet or 60-meters is the starting size for a mega yacht for sale.

The larger superyachts for sale (often mega yachts) will sometimes have special passenger licenses allowing them to accommodate more than 12 guests. Mega yachts generally carry large crews to offer a simply spectacular level of service, with guest-to-crew ratios only dreamt of in elite hotels.

On megayachts, gyms, spas, helipads, private owners deck and even cinemas become standard features, while many sport palatial beach clubs, high-speed chase boats, and even submarines. The general facilities are almost the same for both super yachts and the mega yachts, whereas, the mega yachts are quite bigger in size.

It is useful, however, to know that the term ‘mega yacht’ is not a universally- recognized term and its exact meaning is debated, although it has gained common currency in the United States and in mainstream media around the world.

Click to view  all mega yachts for sale worldwide here , including images and full specifications.

Largest Yachts in the World

Because mega yachts over 200-foot are such extraordinary machines, there are a limited number of them afloat, although as the race for the biggest boat continues, we can expect this number to grow.

AZZAM 592' (180m) Lürssen Yacht 2013

At 592-feet long, AZZAM is known to be the longest superyacht in the world. A world-class team was personally assembled and secretly directed in all areas of development.

ECLIPSE 533' (162m) Blohm + Voss 2010 / 2015

ECLIPSE’s interior configuration has been designed to comfortably accommodate up to 36 guests overnight in 18 cabins, comprising of a master suite and 17 VIP staterooms. She is capable of carrying up to 70 crew onboard.

DUBAI 531' (162m) Platinum Yachts 2006 / 2008

With 7 decks, DUBAI has a wealth of sunbathing areas; a striking mosaic swimming pool and several Jacuzzis. She can accommodate a helicopter of up to ten tons and can carry 2 10-meter long tenders.

BLUE 526' 11" (160.6m) Lurssen 2022

Lurssen’s creation, BLUE, claims the 4th spot on the list of the world’s longest yachts, showcasing its remarkable gross tonnage. Crafted for a Middle Eastern owner, it offers ample interior space, surpassed in this aspect only by DILBAR and AL SAID. Designed by Terence Disdale, BLUE boasts classic exterior aesthetics characterized by a distinctive bow and graceful curves. The yacht boasts two helipads, a sheltered pool on the main deck, a stern bathing platform, and balconies adorning the owner’s cabin. She is propelled by a cutting-edge diesel-electric hybrid system equipped with advanced exhaust treatment and water purification technology.

DILBAR 511' (156m) Lürssen Yacht 2017

Luxury mega yacht DILBAR is famously known as the world’s largest yacht by gross tonnage and interior volume. With an interior by Alberto Pinto, she became one of the most sought-after yachts on the water.

Click below to view the rest of the top 25 yachts by length in the world.

Top Superyacht Builders

German superyacht builder Lürssen is the builder of the largest superyacht in existence, the 590’ (180m) M/Y AZZAM, which was completed in an astonishingly quick three years. Known for superb build quality and large projects across its superyacht, naval vessel, as well as its’ yacht refit and management divisions. M/Y KISMET the 312′ yacht is one of Lürssen’s most popular vessels.

Feadship, Netherlands: For some yacht owners, the only name worth knowing is Feadship. This prestigious brand is synonymous with Dutch superyacht quality and has a legion of steadfast and loyal fans. There are 450 bespoke yachts currently afloat in the Feadship fleet, including M/Y HASNA.

Dutch yacht builder Heesen is known for its aluminum and steel superyachts and innovative use of technology, as seen in the revolutionary fast displacement hull form first seen in the multi-award winning M/Y GALACTICA STAR.

Amels’ vast and high-tech superyacht facility is the largest in the Netherlands, producing iconic, high-value yachts up to 330’ (100m), including their 2017 flagship yacht, 272’ (83m) M/Y HERE COMES THE SUN.

Building or Buying a Yacht

Superyachts for sale can be purchased pre-owned, or buyers can purchase a ‘new build’ yacht for sale from a dedicated superyacht builder. Superyachts can be ordered either fully custom-built, semi-custom, or from an existing range, and can be built with various hull types which affect speed, range and motion at sea. Luxury yachts can also be chartered out, recouping some of the costs of purchase and upkeep. Your yacht broker will help you through researching, selecting and purchasing your superyacht for sale, making the process easy.

Interested in  buying a superyacht? See below for a selection of superyachts for sale, or contact us below to learn more about how Worth Avenue Yachts can assist you in your yachting journey.

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Worth Avenue Yachts has had substantial price reductions on various pre-owned yachts. Below you will find the 12 best opportunities on the market. 

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Benetti Yachts – Inside the 100′ Tradition Series Tri-deck Yacht BW

BW is a remarkable opportunity for prospective buyers in search of a three-deck yacht with an impressive pedigree. This luxury yacht underwent a complete interior redesign and refit in the years 2020 and 2021/22. BW offers capacious indoor and outdoor areas, catering to those who appreciate both quality and spaciousness.

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MARGENE – Timeless Luxury and Modern Refinement

THE NORDLUND 63 MARGENE – timeless elegance and modern comfort Motoryacht MARGENE, a 63ft / 19.2m luxury yacht, is now available for sale, meticulously crafted

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Mega Yacht vs Superyacht: Unraveling the Differences

13th oct 2023 by samantha wilson.

Superyacht vs. megayacht—the definitions are oft-debated, and industry professionals have yet to fully agree. But as yachts get bigger by the year it’s a subject that keeps evolving. 

Is it based on size alone or also function? Is it yet another debate between proponents of the British language and that of the Americans? Here we’ll take a look at all the sides of the argument and see how what was once “I say tom-ah-to you say to-may-to” may, in fact, be on its way to an important and necessary definition in the superyacht world.

What is a Superyacht?

For as far back as we look, the marine industry has always defined boats and yachts, categorizing them by their main function or style. From center consoles to schooners, trawlers to catamarans, we have a category for them all. The term superyacht, however, has always been based predominantly on size—yachts over 80 feet to be precise—and of course they had to be luxurious, too. No-one is calling a 90-foot commercial fishing boat a superyacht, but a 90-foot luxury sportfishing model by Viking Yachts fits the bill just fine. The other major criteria to be classified as a superyacht—apart from being privately owned—is to have a full-time captain and crew (as opposed to the owner being the captain). The only true bottom line, however, is that the industry has long agreed that superyachts were the largest and most elite vessels in the world. 

For examples of some of the most astounding private luxury yachts in the world check out the superyachts for sale on Rightboat. If you think purchasing a superyacht might be right for you some day, read our Top Tips on How to Buy a Superyacht and our article on Superyachts 101: All Your Questions Answered .

What is a Megayacht?

Here the definitions get trickier. Even the spelling isn’t fully agreed upon yet as some write mega yacht, others megayacht. For a long time, the term megayacht was the more common term for large luxury yachts in the United States, while in Europe they have always been superyachts. But that picture is certainly changing now, because of the emergence of some true behemoths of yachts.

A decade ago a 180-foot or 55-meter superyacht was considered big. These days, that superyacht is dwarfed by some gargantuan vessels ranging all the way up to the very largest private yacht in the world, Azzam , at 590 feet in length. It seems logical therefore that we need a different classification to separate a 35-meter superyacht from a 350-meter one. And the term megayacht has fit nicely into that space. While industry insiders are not all aligned, most categorize a megayacht as being larger than a superyacht—some say over 260 feet (80 meters), others classify a megayacht as over 200 feet (60 meters). But as we’ll see below, gross tonnage, the crew and guests, as well as safety, maintenance, and management also play a role in this new classification.

The world’s megayachts are a sight to behold and are often the driving force of the yachting world’s innovation. Some of the most famous include Eclipse at 533 feet (162.5m) one of the first megayachts built back in 2010, Dubai at 531 feet (162m), Blue at 525 feet (160m), and A+ at 483 feet (147.25m). The largest sailing yacht is Sailing Yacht A at 468 feet (142.81m). For more examples check out the megayachts for sale on Rightboat.

Superyacht vs Megayacht: What Are the Main Differences?

Megayacht vs superyacht size and length.

For those using the term megayacht as a classification of yacht larger than a superyacht, the generally accepted size, as mentioned, is a private luxury yacht over either 200 or 260 feet (60 or 80m). But actually it’s more than just length that is playing a deciding role. Gross tonnage in shipping dictates how a vessel is operated, and any vessels over 3000GT will have a whole different set of regulations. Some yachts over 200 feet long are above 3000GT and almost all yachts over 260 feet exceed 3000GT, so it seems logical that this definition stands. There are exceptions, such as the 278.8 feet (85m) Victorious , for example, whose gross tonnage is 2,291GT. While certainly a superyacht, is she a megayacht? Based on overall length, we’d have to say yes, but the captain’s qualifications, the number of guests she can accommodate, and the safety and management regulations will be quite different. 

Megayacht vs superyacht crew and guests

When talking about yachts over 3000GT, there are many operational regulations that change considerably above and below 3000GT, especially the captain’s qualifications. Instead of just 12 guests, they are able to accommodate many more overnight passengers and the guest-to-crew ratios are greatly increased. In essence, a private yacht over 3000GT will need to be classified and run as though it is a commercial vessel with regards the captain, crew, and passengers. 

Does the type of crew makes a difference to the classification? Yes, a yacht over 3000GT is more likely to have masseuses, dive instructors, personal trainers, watersports instructors, and Michelin chefs, but that doesn’t mean superyachts can’t also have them (and there are many that do). 

Megayacht vs superyacht cost

It makes sense that the larger the yacht, the more it will cost, but the price tag isn’t necessarily a defining characteristic of whether a yacht is a superyacht or a megayacht. In fact, the most expensive superyacht ever built is History Supreme , worth $4.8 billion. What is most surprising here though is that History Supreme is ‘just’ 100 feet long. It is, among other extravagances, inlaid with 24-carat gold, which helps explain the price tag, but it’s a perfect example of how cost doesn’t define megayacht status. As a comparison, estimates of Azzam ‘s cost are just under $600 million to build. Having said that, there are industry insiders who believe that an extremely high level of service and facilities can raise a superyacht into the megayacht realm. Read on to find out which are the most expensive yachts in the world?

Superyachts, Megayachts, and Gigayachts?

Before we’ve even come to a final consensus on the definition of a megayacht, we encounter the term gigayacht. To look at the possible need for yet another classification we go back to our example of Azzam at 590 feet long. Should an almost-600-foot ultra-luxury private yacht be categorized the same as a 260-foot yacht? Many in the industry think not, that it provides a better categorization of the biggest of the big yachts in an industry producing ever-larger designs. Others roll their eyes, however. Whether the terms mega- and giga are just marketing spinners or a genuine need for classification of the ever-growing luxury yachts being launched is, for now, a case of “Watch this space.” 

Written By: Samantha Wilson

Samantha Wilson has spent her entire life on and around boats, from tiny sailing dinghies all the way up to superyachts. She writes for many boating and yachting publications, top charter agencies, and some of the largest travel businesses in the industry, combining her knowledge and passion of boating, travel and writing to create topical, useful and engaging content.

More from: Samantha Wilson

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What is a Superyacht? A Deep Dive into 2024’s Mega Boats

Introduction:.

Imagine a world where luxury knows no bounds, where every horizon promises new adventures, and where the sea itself becomes your kingdom. This is the world of superyachts. These majestic vessels, often seen gracing the azure waters of the Mediterranean or the vibrant coasts of the Caribbean, are more than just boats. They are a testament to human craftsmanship, luxury, and the endless pursuit of pleasure.

Table of Contents

Join us as we navigate through the world of these floating palaces!

The Evolution of Superyachts

The story of superyachts is as old as the sea itself. Once the exclusive domain of royalty and the uber-rich, these vessels have witnessed a transformation from mere luxury boats to the floating palaces of today.

In the Gilded Age, they were symbols of immense wealth and power, with magnates and tycoons vying to own the most opulent yacht. Fast forward to 2024, and the allure remains, but with a touch of modern sophistication and technological marvel.

Defining the Superyacht

So, what makes a yacht a ‘super’ yacht? It’s not just about size, though that’s certainly a factor. A superyacht is a blend of luxury, craftsmanship, and state-of-the-art technology. Typically, these vessels exceed 24 meters in length, with some of the largest ones, like the Azzam, stretching to an impressive 180.61 meters. But it’s not just about length. It’s about the amenities onboard – from helipads to mini-submarines, from opulent suites to state-of-the-art cinemas. Every superyacht is a unique reflection of its owner’s desires and dreams.

The Experience Onboard

Life onboard a superyacht is nothing short of magical. Imagine waking up to the gentle lull of the sea, with a dedicated crew catering to your every whim. From gourmet meals prepared by world-class chefs to spa treatments under the stars, the experience is unparalleled. And then there are the destinations – hidden coves, private beaches, and some of the world’s most exclusive ports. Every journey is a new adventure, a new story waiting to be told.

Key features include:

• Decked Out Decks: Superyachts often feature multiple decks, each meticulously designed for a unique purpose. The main deck might house luxurious suites, while the upper decks are tailored for entertainment, dining, and relaxation. Some even have dedicated “beach clubs” where the deck meets the water.
• Swimming Pools & Jacuzzis: Many superyachts come with temperature-controlled swimming pools, complete with infinity edges that seem to merge with the ocean. Adjacent to these are jacuzzis, perfect for a relaxing soak while sipping champagne and watching the sunset.
• State-of-the-Art Entertainment: The entertainment on a superyacht is cinema-quality. Many feature dedicated movie theaters with plush seating and advanced sound systems. Additionally, they’re equipped with high-speed internet, gaming zones, and even libraries for those who prefer a quiet evening.
• Adventure Gear: The thrill-seekers aren’t forgotten. Superyachts often come equipped with water toys like jet skis, paddleboards, and diving equipment. Some even house mini-submarines and have helipads for aerial adventures.

The World of Superyacht Owners

Owning a superyacht is like holding a golden ticket to an exclusive club. From business magnates to celebrities, the list of superyacht owners reads like a who’s who of the world’s elite. And it’s not just about flaunting wealth; it’s about making a statement. For many, their superyacht is a second home, a floating paradise where they can escape the mundane and sail into the sunset.

Superyachts as a Status Symbol

While the luxury and experiences they offer are unmatched, superyachts have always been more than that. They are symbols of status, power, and prestige. In a world where the ultra-rich are constantly seeking ways to differentiate themselves, owning a superyacht is the ultimate statement. It’s not just about the money; it’s about the lifestyle, the exclusivity, and the statement it makes.

The Future of Superyachts

As we sail into the future, the world of superyachts promises even more innovations. With a focus on sustainability, we are seeing designs that are eco-friendly without compromising on luxury. Hybrid engines, solar panels, and even sails are making a comeback, ensuring that the future of yachting is not just luxurious but also responsible.

The world of superyachts is a mesmerizing blend of luxury, adventure, and art. As we’ve journeyed through their evolution, their significance, and their future, one thing remains clear – superyachts are more than just boats; they are dreams made tangible.

And as we look to the horizon, we can only imagine what the next chapter in the story of superyachts will bring.

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The evolution of a superyacht

Superyachts have come a long way over the past 40 years. Sam Fortescue takes a trip down memory lane and finds out what the future may hold...

Wind back the clock to 1983 when BOAT International first hit the newsstands and join me in a helicopter (it’s a Hughes 500) over Monaco. A youthful Alain Prost is in pole position at the Grand Prix, and a crimson Lamborghini Countach makes for a sporty safety car. Below us, Port Hercules is stuffed with small, plastic boats – and the most striking thing? Lots of them have masts!

Moored stern-to along the Quai des Etats-Unis is one of the big new beasts of the nascent superyacht world: 59.2-metre Le Pharaon is the last word in 80s opulence and grabbing all the headlines. This Feadship motor yacht with lines by De Voogt has a classic raked bow, lots of sheer and overhanging side decks.

Fast forward 40 years and it’s a different story. Monaco’s pontoons bristle with 60-metre-plus power boats. Creations such as 74.9-metre Kenshō – the masterpiece from Admiral – with her reverse bow, deep hull chine and complex, swooping curves, 80-metre Artefact from Nobiskrug , the golden trimaran Khalilah or 160.6-metre Lürssen Blue .

Compared to the early 1980s, you’d notice immediately how much bigger the yachts are – and how colourful. “The last 40 years have seen quite a dramatic evolution in yacht design,” designer Espen Øino says. “They used to be quite conservative 40 years ago – always with white or dark blue hulls. Today, you have very young, very wealthy people who are much less conservative and who are willing to break the codes and explore new technologies.” New materials have given designers much freer rein with shapes and structures. Metal plate can be much more precisely cut and bent, while lightweight carbon fibre makes it possible to mould shapes artistically without losing stiffness or strength.

And glass has changed the game entirely. While Feadship calculates that the yachts built in the 1960s used glass for just seven per cent of the superstructure, today’s can contain more glass than metal. Just look at the radical Abeking & Rasmussen yacht Excellence (2019), whose reflective glass panels are two decks high. Structural glass, with little or no support, is here. 

“Now you see glass everywhere because owners want a great view, like living in the mountains,” naval architect Hans-Maarten Bais of Diana Yacht Design says. “Bent glass construction that can carry the loads of two to three decks just didn’t exist in the past.” Stronger glass has also made underwater lounges a reality, as well as the dappled effect of light shining through a glass-bottomed pool. All this was unthinkable 40 years ago.

Speed was the name of the game when BOAT International was launched. Gas turbines were being used to achieve dizzying performance (with astronomical fuel consumption), such as on the Aga Khan’s 46.6-metre Shergar , built by Lürssen with 6,100 horsepower to push her to 45 knots.

Contrast that with 1,989GT Kenshō delivered in 2022 – a yacht with three times the volume that does 15 knots using 3,800 horsepower. Instead of a traditional propshaft, Kenshō uses nimble electric Azipod thrusters drawing power from diesel generators. Such hybrid propulsion is more and more common, having been adapted from the world of commercial shipping.

On large sailing yachts, change has been more marked still. Projects such as Maltese Falcon and Black Pearl show sail handling can be achieved without dozens of burly crew or gigantic deck winches. Their DynaRigs allow one person to set, furl and reef a superyacht at the click of a mouse. “They can sail 70 to 80 per cent of the time because their DynaRigs are so easy to handle,” says naval architect Gerard Dykstra , who was central to developing the system. “It took [ Maltese Falcon owner] Tom Perkins as a venture capitalist, used to making calculated risks. Fortunately, we have a few of them on the drawing board now, close to being built.”

The benefits of sails go further, too, because a portion of the wind power they capture can now be diverted into regenerating electricity to service the boat’s hotel loads. In this way, Black Pearl famously crossed the Atlantic without any fossil fuel.

Many shipyards from Lürssen to Sanlorenzo are grappling with the next stage of the energy transition, which will use a form of hydrogen for fuel. Lürssen sales director Michael Breman considers this evolution to be a stepping stone to further developments. “Nuclear power is also an interesting carrier of energy,” he says. “Maybe somewhere there is a solution in that field.”

One of the keys to less polluting yachts is, of course, better hull design. And the last 40 years have seen some big advances. Back in 1983, the apex of hull design might have been a costly tank-testing process somewhere like the Wolfson Unit in the UK or the Davidson Laboratory in the US. Now computational fluid dynamics (CFD) – the ability to accurately simulate water flow and drag on a hull without producing a physical model – has changed all that and become a key tool. With a broader range of shapes, modern hulls have lower drag, better stability and generate less noise.

Hulls have become 15 to 20 per cent more efficient, according to James Roy of Lateral Naval Architects . “What CFD has allowed is exploration of a greater solution space in a far more rapid and cost-effective way than the older approach of design and test,” he says. “But hull development is not just about minimizing resistance; it is also about optimizing for seakeeping, and equally about practically fitting everything in.”

Interiors have changed too. Forty years ago, marine blues and high-gloss hardwood prevailed. Today, there is no typical yacht interior. Owners, who tend to be younger, come from diverse cultural backgrounds and have different expectations. Owners from the US generally emphasize comfort and tend still to shy away from ultra-modern interiors. Asian owners might tend toward daunting volumes, while the Russian and Middle Eastern markets often seek opulence.

The definition of luxury is changing, says Giovanna Vitelli, executive president at Azimut-Benetti . “For a long time it has been interpreted as opulence – an abundance of rich materials or a combination of many materials. This has moved a bit more toward elegance rather than shouted opulence.” Designers and builders report a swing toward greater simplicity – which does not always mean easier. “Very often, doing something very simplistic is not necessarily more economical,” Breman says.

Sustainability is also gathering pace, thanks to refinements in interior building techniques. Wafer-thin wood or stone veneer can be fixed to honeycomb backing for lightweight luxury, and new techniques have created greener engineered wood, synthetic decking and even recycled leather.

The biggest changes since the early 1980s have to do with technology, of course, with implications in design. Ship-to-shore communications have driven a tectonic shift in the way owners can use their boats. Back in 1983, satellite phones had only just debuted and had incredibly narrow bandwidth. “Comms have changed everything,” yacht broker Nick Edmiston says. “It used to be double sideband radio telephone – you’d say ‘over’. Now you can use satcoms to talk to anyone in the world, which means that people can spend more time on their yachts and do business.”

Movie theatres have appeared on the biggest yachts. Where 20 years ago they relied on a library of VHS or DVD titles, today they draw on a media bank stored on a single hard drive. Next-gen satellite systems such as Starlink will further increase bandwidth, dramatically reduce costs and enable onboard streaming services. Because they rely on a flat transceiver, they might even do away with large radomes on the mast.

Covid-19 also had an undeniable impact on yachting. Even as it was decimating other areas of life, the pandemic proved a shot in the arm for the industry. “Covid has changed many things in the mindset of using the boat, because it creates a platform with a safe environment – so owners have spent six to nine months aboard,” Breman says. 

Although the threat of the virus has slipped to the back of many people’s minds, there is still a sense that yachting provides a safe haven, as booming order books demonstrate. It also bolstered a buoyant demand for adventure yachts, designer Dickie Bannenberg says. “Covid reinforced an already increasing trend for exterior space in its many forms: beach clubs, balconies, terraces, swim platforms… privacy is the new luxury.”

Stepladders used to get guests from the boat to the sea, but that changed with the advent of the beach club. Lady Moura got the ball rolling in 1990 with her twin fold-down sun terraces just above the waterline, strewn, some say, with real sand. A decade later, the swim platform became standard, with transom openings that transformed the space into an informal living area. The concept has morphed into a multi-level, multi-room affair that often segues into an onboard spa. Lürssen’s 115.1-metre Ahpo is a supreme example, as is the 96.6-metre Feadship Faith , whose curved glass pool floor forms the ceiling of the beach bar below.

“I don’t think there’s a client who comes to us today without a gym and a spa,” designer Andrew Winch says. “It all started when people stopped smoking.” Breman at Lürssen ties the focus on onboard wellness to the rise of a wealthy Russian clientele. “The banya [traditional sauna] is really part of their culture,” he says.

With the shift to larger beach clubs and wellness centres , the storage of tenders has changed too. And so has the role of tenders themselves and big yachts often carry multiple auxiliary craft. Tatoosh , built in 2000, remains a real showcase. She carries two 11.9-metre boats: a Hinckley motor yacht and a Frers daysailer. In addition, her decks hold three more tenders, a safety boat and four Sea-Doos. Tender building is now a booming business. “A tender used to be a RIB and a GRP boat like a Boston Whaler,” Bais, of Diana, says. “Now you see a [9.1m] limo tender with a moving roof, to get the same experience as [you would] on the yacht.”

The growth of explorers has also contributed to the rise of multi-use tenders with longer range. Limos, beach-landers and wake boats are routinely garaged on bigger yachts, alongside submersibles, land vehicles and a wealth of other toys. Octopus , the 126.2-metre Lürssen from 2003, is a benchmark, with her drop-down transom allowing a 18-metre launch to drive into her “mini marina.”

The definition of tenders has widened, too. Helicopters were the preserve of a handful of mavericks in the 1980s. The first helipad on 1975 Lac II , according to Feadship, required two crew to grab the skids of the landing aircraft and pull it down on deck. Nowadays, the very biggest offer hangar space for one or even two aircraft, not just touch-and-go helipads. And Øino sees us on the cusp of a mobility revolution. “If drone technology can be scaled up to helicopters, then we will have personal transportation with something as simple and reliable as a drone,” he says.

As they say, there is nothing new under the sun. So it is perhaps unsurprising that designers report a fresh interest in boats with sails. “Sailboats are coming back into fashion and the reason is ecology; everyone is trying to get rid of diesel,” Winch says. “Finding ways to provide the quality of lifestyle without masses of crew on a sailing yacht is the holy grail.”

Sustainability is the new buzzword in yachting, and one that didn’t exist 40 years ago. For some it means emission-free propulsion; for others it’s longevity. “Perhaps yachts cost more today, but you are not using materials that should become old-fashioned,” Vitelli says.

Everyone agrees on one thing: there will continue to be wealthy individuals who want to spend their money on yachts – and they’ll carry on getting even bigger. “I have to believe that someone will one day break the [198-metre] barrier,” Breman declares. Time will tell.

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Yacht, Superyacht, Megayacht…What’s the Difference?

A deep dive into yacht types.

In the very technical, precise, and number-loving world of yachting–be it hull length, maximum speed, year built, and so much more–there seems to be much confusion in the categories of yacht types. Those in and out of the yachting industry often hear the terms yacht, superyacht, and even megayacht thrown around casually, and, quite often, interchangeably. So what is a superyacht, really? Is the term “yacht” all-encompassing? Is “gigayacht” really a thing? Do exact numbers come into play? Read on for a deep dive into the different types of yachts.

What Is a Yacht?

While the term “yacht” technically refers to any boat–sailing or motorized–that has sleeping accommodations aboard, the word is typically used for vessels under 80 feet in length. Usually used for pleasure, yachts can also be categorized as vessels specifically used for racing and/or cruising. While still the dream of many, the general term “yacht” usually refers to the “smaller” (we use that word very lightly) boats you may see cruising exotic locations. 

Check out this beautiful yacht: CERULEAN | 66′ Azimut 2018

What Is a Superyacht?

Much like a yacht, a superyacht is also a luxurious vessel used for pleasure; the distinction is in its size. Much of the confusion between whether a vessel falls under the yacht, superyacht, or even megayacht category is still pretty unclear amongst industry professionals. The numbers vary depending on who you ask. Generally speaking, though, a superyacht is usually a yacht whose length exceeds 80 feet. Since it’s all so unclear, we just like to think of it in approximate rather than exact terms: a superyacht is a really large yacht. Superyachts usually have a professional crew manning the vessel.

Spot a stunning superyacht: ODYSSEA | 154′ Heesen 2012

Megayacht: Myth or Fact?

But here’s where things get really puzzling. What really is “large”? Where on the spectrum do different yachts fall? And where does it end? Some industry experts have gone so far as to categorize some of the more massive yachts as “megayachts”. If “superyacht” wasn’t impressive enough, this added term has caused even more perplexity in the wide sea that is the yachting business. While the majority have not necessarily adopted this newer lingo, those that have usually use the term to roughly describe exceedingly large yachts, usually over 200 feet in length. Depending on who you ask, though, some pros argue that the term “megayacht” shouldn’t even be used.

Take a peek at this majestic megayacht: MOCA | 208′ BENETTI 2016

Going Gaga for Gigayachts

If yacht categories weren’t confusing enough, plus the arguments over the term “megayacht”, some shipbuilders have recently gone one step further, despite it all, and adopted yet another term for the most gigantic, crème de la crème of yachts: gigayachts. While the lines for this category are so completely blurred, it seems that these colossal yachts usually teeter over the 220-foot mark. An important factor that those who actually use this term highlight is that gigayachts are almost always custom-built, with the owner personalizing the boat to his or her liking and preferences.

Go gaga for this gigayacht: GALACTICA SUPER NOVA | 230′ Heeson 2017

Does Size Really Matter?

Other than literal size–mostly gauged and compared by the length of the vessel–you may be wondering what really is the difference between all these types of yachts. Some may think: the bigger the better . This all depends on what you value most. Usually, the bigger the yacht, the bigger the crew. With more crew members available to maintain a ship and serve passengers, often the service aboard superyachts (and megayachts) is of the utmost level. On the flip side, some may feel that regular yachts are more their speed–literally; smaller yachts can sometimes reach speeds that larger vessels can’t match, upping the action. Others feel that the “smaller” (read: yet still big) yachts are more intimate, or even more livable. At the end of the boat day, it is all about personal preference. Just like all the other countless options in the yacht business, there’s more than enough to go around. There’s an ocean of options just waiting out there.

Size up this sizable yacht: C144S Hull #3 | 144′ Conrad 2024

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Superyacht vs megayacht

Published 05 September 2022

Most people define a superyacht as a vessel used for pleasure, which is larger than 24m (80ft) and has full-time captain and crew employed all year round. This is therefore quite different to a smaller privately owned yacht, captained by its owner, with perhaps one or two temporary crew to assist them in the summer.

The dividing line between superyachts and megayachts however is more blurred, and there is no strict or commonly agreed definition.  If a dividing line was to be proposed on length, then many would agree that this would be around the 80m (260ft) mark, but there is no hard line and some industry insiders also use the gross tonnage (volume) as the dividing line, 3,000GT being a line that a lot of regulations follow. It could also be said that the word superyacht can be used in a more inclusive way, and that all megayachts are superyachts, but not all superyachts are megayachts.

To explain, just a decade ago a 60m (200ft) was considered mega. Today there are yachts being built that are as large as 180m (590ft). As the size of yachts continues to grow so does the need for observers to demarcate the elite 100m+ (330ft+) yachts, and with this comes the introduction of the hyperbolic terms megayacht and even gigayacht.

However, most would agree that today’s megayachts are 80m+ (260ft+) with a minimum of 25 crew who operate the vessel all year round using largely rotational crew and run to a high commercial shipping standard.

What is the difference between a superyacht and megayacht?

Megayachts are run more along the lines of a cruise ship or passenger ship and follow many of the same regulations whereas superyachts can still, at least to some extent, follow a more bespoke pattern defined by its owner. This is not to say that a megayacht does not go or do what its owner wants it to do, but there are much stricter regulations in place for yachts over 3,000GT, including full merchant navy certification for all deck and engineering officers.

Length vs gross tonnage

The simplest way to explain the difference between length and size of a superyacht is with the 157m (512ft) DILBAR. The megayacht is the fifth largest yacht in the world by length (in June 2022), but with a gross tonnage of 15,917GT, in volume terms she is actually the largest yacht in the world (although she is soon to be overtaken by the in-build 183m (600ft) REV OCEAN). Compare DILBAR to the longest yacht in the world, the 180m (590ft) AZZAM, which has a gross tonnage of 13,136GT, and you can see that longest and largest are two different things.

When it comes to gross tonnage the big step-changes with regard to shipping regulations are 500GT and 3,000GT. Being over 80m-long all megayachts are over 3,000GT. The likes of the 108m (354.2ft) IJE, for example, is 3,3670GT and is operated by a crew of 30, and similarly the 92.4m (303.2ft) TATOOSH has a gross tonnage of 3,229.

However, a yacht like the 85m (278.8ft) AKYACHT VICTORIOUS , for example, at 2,291GT, is a bona fide superyacht at the very top end of that definition, but significantly she is well under 3,000GT. In fact, the difference between managing yachts under and over 3,000GT is quite significant, including for example different captain’s qualifications between a Master 3000, designed for superyacht helming of yachts under 3,000GT, and a Master (Yachts) Unlimited, which enables that captain to run any vessel of any size, even the Queen Mary 2 or a supertanker.

Benefits: what makes a superyacht a superyacht?

Synonymous with luxury and glamour, a superyacht typically offers owner and guests the freedom to travel the world in ultimate comfort and privacy. A superyacht will be professionally crewed, providing its owner and guests with spectacular service, including a captain, chef, engineer and chief stewardess as a minimum.

Ranging from two decks to up to three or four decks for guests, a superyacht will have sumptuous accommodations for between six and 12 guests, as well as luxurious communal living areas, both inside and out on deck. From entertaining and dining areas to beach clubs, swim platforms and sun decks, along with watertoys, superyachts are designed entirely for relaxation and fun, with no other commercial purpose.

Most of the largest superyachts are custom built, representing the pinnacle of design and craftsmanship, while the smaller range of superyachts, between 30-40m (100-130ft) are usually built on a semi-custom platform with their own unique interior design. However, rest assured almost every superyacht, be it a 24m (80ft) or an 80m (260ft), will carry some watertoys to keep every guest entertained while on board, along with a tender to escort guests ashore at their whim and in comfort.

B enefits: what makes a megayacht a megayacht? 

Aside from having all of the same facilities and amenities of a superyacht, a megayacht will sometimes have special passenger licenses allowing them to accommodation and carry more than 12 guests at the same time. Guest to crew ratios are also greatly increased, with crew numbers on the largest megayachts reaching 80+, sometimes including Michelin-star trained chefs, masseuses, beauty therapists, dive instructors and personal trainers, as well as captains (often on a rotational basis), chief engineer and engineers, first officer, first mate, chief stewardess, a number of deckhands and stewardesses.

Megayachts will have their own gyms, spas, helipads, helicopter hangars, cinema rooms, spa pools and swimming pools, private owners’ decks or even apartments, and beach clubs to rival some of the best on land. Some come with their own chase boats, while others may cruise in tandem with a support vessel to carry all manner of watertoys and other equipment, including submarines.

Discover more about superyacht ownership with Burgess

To find out more about Burgess’ yachts for sale and yachts for charter , please contact a Burgess broker . Alternatively, get in touch with one of our offices directly: London , Monaco , New York , Miami , Singapore or all other locations .

- Yachts, prices and availability are correct at the time of publication.

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Yacht definitions: What is a yacht? And does it need to have sails?

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By far the most common question we get asked here at Motor Boat & Yachting is ‘how can you call that a yacht if it doesn’t have sails?’ Here we explain why a boat doesn’t need sails to be called a yacht...

What’s in a name? Quite a lot if you’re a yacht! Not only are the names of yachts a source of endless amusement, but by defining your boat as a yacht in the first place, you’re setting up certain expectations.

Yacht definitions: A brief history

Whilst boating for fun dates back to Ancient Egypt and possibly even further than that, the word yacht comes from the Dutch ‘jachtschip’, which means hunting ship. Jachts were originally a class of sailboat used in the 16th century to hunt down enemies of the Dutch Republic.

However by the 19th century the term ‘yachting’ had developed to mean recreational boating in general, and with the advent of steam boats, sails were no longer the only method of propulsion available to Victorian yachtsmen.

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World’s largest superyacht: Everything you need to know about 183m REV

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In the early 20th century (1904 to be precise), our humble magazine was launched under its original title The Motor Boat , but by the 1950s the ‘& Yachting’ suffix had been added to refer to the general pastime enjoyed by motorboat owners. We even reviewed the occasional motorsailer for those who liked to enjoy the benefits of both power and sail.

Today’s Motor Boat & Yachting is dedicated purely to powered leisure vessels from 25-125ft with the occasional foray above and below that when interest dictates. Current editor Hugo Andreae insists that he is ‘terminology agnostic’ saying, “I’m not bothered whether people refer to their boats as yachts, cruisers, power boats or gin palaces just so long as they enjoy using them. But for the record my 22ft Karnic is definitely a gigayacht!”

Editor Hugo’s Karnic 2250 is his family’s pride and joy, but should it be called a yacht?

What makes a yacht, a yacht?

Some would argue that a yacht has to have sails, and as we’ve seen, that was originally the case, but we here at Motor Boat & Yachting beg to differ, as its common to refer to large motorboats as motoryachts, superyachts or even megayachts without any expectation that they would have sails.

Others assert that a yacht should have to have a cabin in order for it to be fully considered a yacht, or that it has to measure at least 10m in length. If that’s the case then some longer narrowboats could be technically considered as yachts, although you’d be hard pushed to find anyone who agrees with that definition.

The final test for something to be considered a yacht is harder to pin down, but it is generally accepted that all yachts have to have a certain aesthetic or architectural appeal in order to earn this haughty moniker.

The advent of internal combustion in the 19th Century allowed motor yachts, like this fine example from Camper & Nicholsons, to be launched. Photo: Getty Images

Whether a boat is worthy of being called a yacht is clearly subjective, but there’s one thing we won’t budge over – it certainly doesn’t have to have sails!

If it’s sailing yachts specifically that you’re interested in, you won’t find many of them here, but we can heartily recommend our sister titles Yachting Monthly and Yachting World , who know much more about them than we do.

Bigger yacht definitions: Superyacht, megayacht or gigayacht?

Beyond the simple term yacht, there are a few other yacht definitions worth clarifying. The most commonly used of which is superyacht .

The debate still rages over what constitutes a superyacht. Any pleasure yacht with a load line length of 24m or more (not length overall or waterline length as is often misquoted) and a gross tonnage of 80GT is classified as a Large Yacht under MCA coding rules, causing a number of additional regulations to kick in, most crucially the requirement for the skipper to hold a commercially endorsed Yachtmaster Offshore Certificate. This is the closest thing to a technical definition of a superyacht.

At 180m Azzam is currently the largest yacht in the world, but an 183m gigayacht called REV is currently under construction in Norway. Photo: Wikimedia Commons

However, while this used to mean most leisure boats with an overall length (LOA) of 80ft or more fell into the Large Yacht category, yards have become so adept at designing bigger boats with a load line length of just under 24m that many craft with an LOA of 90ft or more still count as regular pleasure vessels.

For that reason some people prefer to use the simpler definition of a superyacht being any privately owned vessel with an LOA of 100ft or more. Even then some would argue that a true superyacht should be a custom built yacht of at least 35m or 120ft.

Such is the inflationary pressure on yacht sizes and terminology that the term superyacht itself has begun to lose currency among the yachting elite. Owners of craft over 50m now use the term megayacht to categorise their larger vessels, while the lesser-spotted gigayacht is reserved for yachts over 100m.

Fewer than 100 gigayachts have been built to date, making this the rarest of rare breeds. That said with the world’s largest yacht now measuring over 183m, it’s surely only a matter of time before the 200m mark will be broken and yet another term will be needed. Got any suggestions? Drop us an e-mail: [email protected]

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superyacht noun

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What does the noun superyacht mean?

There is one meaning in OED's entry for the noun superyacht . See ‘Meaning & use’ for definition, usage, and quotation evidence.

How common is the noun superyacht ?

How is the noun superyacht pronounced, british english, u.s. english, where does the noun superyacht come from.

Earliest known use

The earliest known use of the noun superyacht is in the 1910s.

OED's earliest evidence for superyacht is from 1912, in Belfast News-letter .

superyacht is formed within English, by derivation.

Etymons: super- prefix , yacht n.

Nearby entries

• supervolcano, n. 1925–
• supervoltage, n. 1898–
• supervolute, adj. 1832–
• supervolutive, adj. 1841–50
• superwaif, n. 1972–
• superweak, adj. 1959–
• superweed, n. 1939–
• superweening, adj. 1862
• superwoman, adj. & n. 1857–
• super-writing, n. 1654–1853
• superyacht, n. 1912–
• supet, n. a1382
• supeter, n. 1611–78
• supinate, v. 1822–
• supinated, adj. 1828–
• supination, n. 1657–
• supinatoextensor, adj. 1872–
• supinator, n. 1615–
• supine, n. c1450–
• supine, adj. & adv. ?a1425–
• supinely, adv. 1604–

Meaning & use

The super-Dreadnought has its companion in the super-motor-car and the super-yacht .

Launched at Clydebank, yesterday, the 1,600-ton superyacht Nahlin, which they have built to the order of Lady Yule... Intended for long cruises, the Nahlin will be fitted with a special navigation outfit.

Puerto José Banus is a convenient 35 miles from Gibraltar and, although expensive, is worth a visit if only to see the opulent superyachts moored against the west quay.

The superyacht Dilbar stretches one-and-a-half football fields in length. It has two helipads, berths for more than 130 people and a 25-meter swimming pool that itself can accommodate another superyacht.

• steam-yacht 1812– With reference to locomotion by steam-power, and in names of vehicles and vessels propelled by steam, as steam barge , steam bus , steam-ferry , steam …
• skimmer 1844– Applied to vessels, spec. to a particular type of yacht. Hence also, a hydroplane, hydrofoil, hovercraft, or other vessel that has little or no…
• schooner-yacht 1876– Vessels of various classes resembling a schooner in build or rig.
• cruiser 1879– A yacht constructed or adapted for cruising, as distinguished from a ‘racer’; also, a motor-vessel designed for pleasure cruises on the sea, or…
• keel 1883– A yacht built with a permanent keel instead of a centre-board.
• skimming-dish 1884– U.S. A shallow yacht-built type of boat used on the coast of Florida.
• cutter-yacht 1885– A yacht built and rigged like a cutter.
• half-rater 1889– A small racing yacht of a design originally having a rating ( rating , n.¹ 4) of 0.5. Also as a modifier, designating such a vessel.
• bulb-keel 1893– A keel of a yacht having a cigar-shaped attachment which in section presents a bulb-like appearance; also elliptical a yacht having such an…
• keel-boat 1893– A yacht having a keel instead of a centre-board.
• forty 1894– A yacht of forty tons burden.
• forty-tonner 1895– = forty , adj. B.3.
• one-designer 1897– A one-design yacht or boat (see one-design , n. ); (also) a person who sails this type of craft.
• raceabout 1897– A sloop-rigged racing yacht similar to a knockabout ( knockabout , n. B.4), but typically having a smaller keel and larger sail yards.
• forty-footer 1902– A forty-foot yacht.
• sonder 1907– A class of small racing yacht; a yacht of this class.
• star 1911– Sailing (originally U.S. ). Frequently with capital initial. A type of sloop-rigged open keelboat designed to be sailed by two people and used for…
• superyacht 1912– An exceptionally large or powerful yacht; (now) esp. one that is extravagantly luxurious and used for cruising.
• tonnage-cheater 1912– Term applied to a vessel built so as to cheat the rules for tonnage measurement, esp. a yacht with a ‘dog's-leg’ stern-post, by which its length was…
• scow 1929– U.S. A small flat-bottomed racing yacht.
• tabloid 1930– In full tabloid cruiser . A small cruising yacht.
• Yngling 1969– A type or class of racing keelboat, designed to sail with a two- or three-person crew. Frequently attributive .
• maxi yacht 1974– Originally and chiefly Australian and New Zealand . In full maxi boat , maxi yacht . A racing yacht of between 15 and 20 metres in length (the largest…

Pronunciation

• ð th ee
• ɬ rhingy ll

Some consonants can take the function of the vowel in unstressed syllables. Where necessary, a syllabic marker diacritic is used, hence <petal> /ˈpɛtl/ but <petally> /ˈpɛtl̩i/.

• a trap, bath
• ɑː start, palm, bath
• ɔː thought, force
• ᵻ (/ɪ/-/ə/)
• ᵿ (/ʊ/-/ə/)

Other symbols

• The symbol ˈ at the beginning of a syllable indicates that that syllable is pronounced with primary stress.
• The symbol ˌ at the beginning of a syllable indicates that that syllable is pronounced with secondary stress.
• Round brackets ( ) in a transcription indicate that the symbol within the brackets is optional.

View the pronunciation model here .

* /d/ also represents a 'tapped' /t/ as in <bitter>

Some consonants can take the function of the vowel in unstressed syllables. Where necessary, a syllabic marker diacritic is used, hence <petal> /ˈpɛd(ə)l/ but <petally> /ˈpɛdl̩i/.

• i fleece, happ y
• æ trap, bath
• ɑ lot, palm, cloth, thought
• ɔ cloth, thought
• ɔr north, force
• ə strut, comm a
• ər nurse, lett er
• ɛ(ə)r square
• æ̃ sal on

Simple Text Respell

Simple text respell breaks words into syllables, separated by a hyphen. The syllable which carries the primary stress is written in capital letters. This key covers both British and U.S. English Simple Text Respell.

b, d, f, h, k, l, m, n, p, r, s, t, v, w and z have their standard English values

• arr carry (British only)
• a(ng) gratin
• o lot (British only)
• orr sorry (British only)
• o(ng) salon

superyacht typically occurs about 0.6 times per million words in modern written English.

superyacht is in frequency band 4, which contains words occurring between 0.1 and 1 times per million words in modern written English. More about OED's frequency bands

Frequency of superyacht, n. , 2017–2023

* Occurrences per million words in written English

Modern frequency series are derived from a corpus of 20 billion words, covering the period from 2017 to the present. The corpus is mainly compiled from online news sources, and covers all major varieties of World English.

Smoothing has been applied to series for lower-frequency words, using a moving-average algorithm. This reduces short-term fluctuations, which may be produced by variability in the content of the corpus.

Entry history for superyacht, n.

superyacht, n. was first published in December 2022.

superyacht, n. was last modified in July 2023.

oed.com is a living text, updated every three months. Modifications may include:

• further revisions to definitions, pronunciation, etymology, headwords, variant spellings, quotations, and dates;
• new senses, phrases, and quotations.

Revisions and additions of this kind were last incorporated into superyacht, n. in July 2023.

Please submit your feedback for superyacht, n.

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Citation details

Factsheet for superyacht, n., browse entry.

Definition of 'superyacht'

Superyacht in british english.

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Designing a superyacht

Designing a superyacht involves a collaborative process that integrates creativity, engineering expertise, naval architecture, and the unique preferences of the owner. Here are the key steps involved in designing a superyacht:

• Conceptualization and Client Consultation: The process often begins with a conceptualization phase, where the design team works closely with the client to understand their vision, preferences, and requirements. This may involve discussions about the yacht's purpose, size, style, and intended use.
• Naval Architecture: Naval architects play a crucial role in determining the yacht's hull design, stability, and performance characteristics. They use principles of hydrodynamics and naval engineering to create a hull that meets the owner's specifications and ensures seaworthiness.
• Exterior Design: Yacht designers focus on the exterior aesthetics, creating a distinctive and visually appealing profile for the superyacht. This includes the overall shape, deck layout, superstructure design, and features such as helipads, swimming pools, and exterior lounges.
• Interior Design: Interior designers collaborate with the owner to create luxurious and personalized living spaces. This involves planning the layout, selecting materials, choosing color schemes, and designing custom furniture. Attention is given to creating a harmonious flow between different areas.
• Engineering and Systems Integration: Engineers work on integrating various systems within the yacht, including propulsion, navigation, communication, entertainment, and environmental control. This phase requires careful planning to ensure efficient and seamless operation.
• Regulatory Compliance: Designers and architects must adhere to international maritime regulations and safety standards. Compliance with these regulations is critical to obtaining the necessary certifications for the yacht.
• Modeling and Visualization: Advanced modeling techniques, including computer-aided design (CAD) and 3D visualization, are used to create detailed representations of the yacht. This allows the client to visualize the design and make informed decisions.
• Prototyping and Testing: In some cases, prototypes or scale models may be created for testing and validation purposes. This helps identify potential design flaws and allows for adjustments before the construction phase.
• Yard Selection: Once the design is finalized, the owner may choose a shipyard for construction. The shipyard's capabilities, reputation, and experience in building superyachts are crucial considerations.
• Construction and Project Management: The construction phase involves translating the design into reality. Project managers oversee the construction process, ensuring that the yacht is built to the specifications and quality standards outlined in the design.
• Sea Trials: Sea trials are conducted to test the yacht's performance, handling, and systems in real-world conditions. Any issues identified during sea trials are addressed before delivery to the owner.
• Delivery and Owner Orientation: Upon completion, the superyacht is delivered to the owner. An orientation is provided to familiarize the owner and crew with the yacht's features, systems, and maintenance requirements.

Throughout the design process, effective communication and collaboration between the owner, designers, naval architects, engineers, and shipyard professionals are crucial for the successful realization of the superyacht.

One deck layout.

General arrangement drawing by ISA Yachts.

Cost of a superyacht

Superyacht management

Life-cycle of a superyacht

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Buying a superyacht

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Definition of yacht

 (Entry 1 of 2)

Definition of yacht  (Entry 2 of 2)

intransitive verb

Examples of yacht in a Sentence

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'yacht.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

obsolete Dutch jaght , from Middle Low German jacht , short for jachtschip , literally, hunting ship

1557, in the meaning defined above

1836, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing yacht

Articles related to yacht.

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Dictionary Entries Near yacht

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Cite this Entry

“Yacht.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/yacht. Accessed 18 May. 2024.

Kids Definition

Kids definition of yacht.

Kids Definition of yacht  (Entry 2 of 2)

from obsolete Dutch jaght (now jacht ), short for jachtschip, literally, "hunting ship"

More from Merriam-Webster on yacht

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Nglish: Translation of yacht for Spanish Speakers

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• 1.1 Etymology
• 1.2.1 Translations
• 1.2.2 See also

English [ edit ]

Etymology [ edit ].

super- +‎ yacht

Noun [ edit ]

superyacht ( plural superyachts )

• 2008 March 30, Elizabeth Olson, “A Google Friend Is Now Facebook’s”, in New York Times ‎ [1] : Tom Perkins [ … ] is putting his superyacht , the Maltese Falcon, up for sale, just two years after he first set sail on it.

Translations [ edit ]

See also [ edit ].

• English terms prefixed with super-
• English lemmas
• English nouns
• English countable nouns
• English terms with quotations
• Translation table header lacks gloss

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By SuperyachtNews 29 Jun 2011

Definition of a superyacht in Australian law under review

With the australian government working on a number of maritime regulatory reforms, how a superyacht is defined may change. while superyachts have been previously treated as "pleasure craft" under the navigation act the new act will have a wider definition of "commercial vessel" which will likely capture superyachts...…, join the discussion.

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• Cambridge Dictionary +Plus

Meaning of yacht in English

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• They spent their annual holiday on a chartered yacht in the Caribbean .
• He spent three days adrift on his yacht.
• His eyes were fixed on the distant yacht.
• If they can afford a yacht, they must be rolling in it.
• She sailed around the world single-handed in her yacht.
• cabin cruiser
• dragon boat
• rubber dinghy

yacht | American Dictionary

Examples of yacht, collocations with yacht.

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Love Exploring

15 extraordinary superyachts setting sail in 2024

Posted: 19 March 2024 | Last updated: 19 March 2024

Breathtaking dream boats launching this year

Ready to discover the ultimate in nautical eye candy?

With the largest-ever superyacht poised to grace the high seas – and several other spectacular launches on the horizon – 2024 is tipped to be a truly unforgettable year for fans of floating palaces.

Jump aboard to discover the most hotly anticipated superyachts scheduled for delivery this year, from state-of-the-art explorers to a record-breaking model that's expected to cost a staggering $600 million (£470m).  All dollar amounts in US dollars.

Custom YS 75 Hybrid: Cost unknown

Ushering in a new generation of high-end eco explorers, this expedition vessel from Damen Yachting in the Netherlands boasts a hybrid propulsion system for zero-emission cruising. For the uninitiated, a hybrid propulsion system uses two or more forms of propulsion, such as a biofuel or diesel engine combined with an electric machine.

As buyers become increasingly aware of environmental concerns, naval architects and yachtbuilders are devising green-leaning vessels that don't compromise on style, luxury, or performance. Damen is among the firms leading the way.

Designed by innovative London studio Michael Leach Design and engineered in-house, the 247-foot (75.2m) Custom YS 75 Hybrid has cutting-edge features, including a touch-and-go helipad and a crane for deploying tenders.

It can accommodate 24 crew members and up to 12 guests across six staterooms and boasts plush entertaining areas.

Due to launch early this year, the innovative vessel will also be the first private superyacht equipped with commercial-grade cultivation pods to grow vegetables, further adding to its eco credentials. As for the price tag? Damen is keeping it firmly under wraps...

Blue Marlin and Custom 78: Cost unknown

Admiral Yachts, owned by The Italian Sea Group, is delivering two sensational superyachts this year, according to Boat International : the 256-foot (78m) Custom 78 a nd 253-foot (77m)  Blue Marlin (pictured).

Sleek and elegant, Blue Marlin's exterior and interior are both the handiwork of prestigious Dutch studio Sinot Yacht Architecture and Design.

The superyacht accommodates 12 guests in six staterooms and offers them a wealth of amenities, including a 19-foot (6m) swimming pool, a private spa, and a helipad. Its more sustainable credentials include a lower-emission diesel-electric propulsion system.

Precious little is known about Admiral's super-secretive Custom 78 project, as noted by Boat International .

It's known that the superyacht's exterior has been designed by Igor Lobanov, the Barcelona-based Russian nautical designer who's renowned for his futuristic, mega-streamlined creations. (An example of his work is shown here.)

Admiral has yet to disclose the price of either  Custom 78 or  Blue Marlin .

Project Toro: Cost unknown

Türkiye's Turquoise Yachts is getting ready to sign off the 259-foot (79m) Project Toro . It's actually running behind schedule and was supposed to be delivered last year.

With the exterior and interiors designed by British studio Harrison Eidsgaard – which is behind some of the world's most luxurious private jets, in addition to its portfolio of yachts – the end result will undoubtedly be a feast for the eyes.

Project Toro's neoclassical exterior is a real head-turner, while its interiors – which apparently include "a huge Neptune Lounge", to quote Super Yacht Times – have been described by the design team as "the definition of serenity and calm".

The fully customised beauty, which was sold in 2021 for an undisclosed sum, can comfortably fit 14 guests in its seven staterooms, as well as providing space for 21 crew members. Amenities onboard include a beauty salon, gym, and swimming pool.

Al Reem: Cost unknown

Formally known as  Silence , Al Reem is getting its finishing touches at the Bilgin shipyard in Türkiye's capital, Istanbul.

Spanning 263 feet (80m), the superyacht showcases Bilgin's signature style – think razor-sharp exterior lines and a super-slender profile – with naval architecture by Turkish studio Unique Yacht Design. It's the third unit of Bilgin's 263 Series and the most advanced of the trio.

Silent by name, silent by nature: the superyacht was sold to a mystery owner in 2022 and the selling price hasn't been revealed. But it won't have come cheap, that's for sure.

Dreamed up by London's H2 Yacht Design, the modern interiors of the boat whisper quiet luxury. The eight suites (including three VIP cabins) can collectively accommodate up to 12 guests, and there's space for 18 crew members. Al Reem's amenities are top-notch too, with the beach club, gym, and cinema just some of the standout features.

Project Vento: Cost unknown

Just weeks after Project Toro was sold in 2021, Turquoise Yachts found a buyer for Project Vento . As is the case with Project Toro , the identity of the owner and the price tag have not been divulged.

At 285 feet (87m) long, Project Vento is the largest superyacht ever built by Turquoise, with the company teaming up with long-time collaborator London's H2 Yacht Design to work on the boat's aesthetics. The result? A distinctive two-tone white and blue exterior with soft, flowing lines.

The interiors are just as eye-catching, with the superyacht boasting a wealth of features.

For the billionaire who has everything, there's a helipad that can also be used as an outdoor cinema and basketball court. But the pièce de résistance  has to be the incredible 21-foot (6.5m) glass-sided swimming pool on the lowest deck.

Project 1012: Cost unknown

With the venture cloaked in mystery, Feadship hasn't released any renders of Project 1012 and has yet to disclose information about the team behind it.

Based on images of the vessel undergoing trials in December 2022, Megayacht News has speculated that it could be traditional in design and may feature a beach club. However, these details won't be confirmed until the superyacht is delivered sometime this year – so watch this space...

Project 1012 is another Feadship superyacht that's slated for delivery in 2024.

The shipyard is being particularly secretive about the vessel, with details extremely sketchy. While we know that the superyacht is 300 feet (91.5m) long, further information about the vessel is next to non-existent.

Project JASSJ: Cost unknown

Spanning 338 feet (103m), Project JASSJ  is the third-largest of the show-stopping superyachts German shipbuilder Lürssen is delivering in 2024.

Sold in 2021 to an anonymous buyer for an undisclosed price, the superyacht features exterior and interior design by RWD Design. American firm Moran Yacht & Ship is overseeing the build.

Fantastically spacious, Project JASSJ can accommodate 22 guests in 11 staterooms.

Lürssen isn't holding back when it comes to amenities, promising an "industry-leading" beach club, as well as a swimming pool, deck Jacuzzi, top-end gym, and elevator, along with a state-of-the-art helipad and side-opening tender garage.

105 Explorer (NB-729): Cost unknown

Hot on the heels of delivering the 367-foot (112m) Renaissance (NB-724) , the largest ever yacht crafted in Spain (and shown here in all its glory), Freire's Galician shipyard is set to complete another whopper:  105 Explorer (NB-729) , which comes in at 344 feet (105m).

Renaissance  has been described by Burgess Yachts as a "temple of leisure" and "sanctum of tranquillity". But 105 Explorer (NB-729) is more about adventure than relaxation...

The superyacht may be kitted out with all the classic creature comforts but, as a roving expedition vessel, the emphasis is on performance rather than amenities.

Reflecting other high-end shipbuilders, Freire has chosen to keep the price of the superyacht a secret in the interest of client confidentiality.

Ace 21: Cost $150 million (£118m)

Ace 21 is one of four show-stopping superyachts that Germany's Lürssen is delivering this year.

Extending over 256 feet (78m) end to end, the glamorous vessel spans five decks – the superyachts we've covered so far have just four – and has been designed to provide five-star relaxation in the world's most idyllic locations. It can accommodate up to 14 guests and a crew of 24.

Lürssen, which has taken care of the naval architecture, has reportedly designed the superyacht so it can cruise closer to shorelines and dock alongside paradise-style beaches and coves.

Ace 21 is all about relaxation – and its designated wellness zone, complete with an extensive spa, beach club, and deck Jacuzzi, combine to make it the perfect place to kick back, millionaire style.

SuperYachtFan reports the vessel was ordered by an unnamed individual who's said to be a prominent figure in the yachting world. The site pegs Ace 21 's price tag at $150 million (£118m) and estimates annual running costs could stretch as high as $15 million (£12m).

Project 825: Cost $186 million (£146m)

On the other hand, the asking price for Feadship's Project 825  has been revealed.

Due for delivery later in the year, the 249-foot (76m) superyacht is currently available for $186 million (£146m) via Burgess Yachts.

Newly-built vessels of this size and calibre are usually custom orders, so it's rare for one to come on the market. The yacht is likely to be snapped up by a member of the super-rich elite who doesn't have the patience to wait years for a bespoke job .

The turnkey superyacht, which is getting its finishing touches at the Feadship Royal Van Lent shipyard in the Netherlands, has a slick two-tone exterior by Feadship's De Voogt Naval Architects. Its chic interiors are courtesy of Parisian design house Gilles & Boissier.

Project 825 has six staterooms with space for 12 guests, who'll have their every whim catered to by 17 crew members. Among its key selling points are an awesome glass-bottomed swimming pool and a private VIP terrace that boasts its own Jacuzzi.

There's also a sauna, deck gym, games room, and touch-and-go helipad, as well as an elevator. 

Project 712: Cost $200 million+ (£157m+)

Feadship is practically churning out superyachts at the moment, with multiple deliveries scheduled this year. Project 712 is among them.

The 272-foot (83m) vessel features an exterior design by Feadship's De Voogt Naval Architects. Unlike the aforementioned Project 825 , however, the interiors are the work of top Dutch firm Sinot Yacht Architecture & Design, not French studio Gilles & Boissier.

Because Feadship is selling Project 825 , the price has been revealed – but Project 712 's cost is being kept firmly under wraps. Given its larger dimensions, it's likely to be even more expensive than its sister vessel.

The superyacht has space for up to 10 guests across its five cabins, according to YachtCharterFleet,  and comes equipped with a wealth of billionaire-worthy amenities, including a beach club, a gym, and a deck Jacuzzi.

Project 821: Cost $200 million+ (£157m+)

The biggest Feadship superyacht launching this year – not to mention the largest the Dutch company has ever built – is  Project 821 , which spans 390 feet (119m).

Feadship is being as secretive about this superyacht as it is with Project 1012 , with very few details known about it. 

The exterior design is characterised by soft lines, and there's a capacious beach club to the rear of the superyacht that leads down to a swimming platform... And that's all we know. 

Both the buyer and the price of  Project 821 are being kept hush-hush, though the superyacht is likely to have cost considerably more than the smaller Project 825 , which is on the market for $186 million (£146m).

Project Deep Blue: Cost $450 million (£354m)

The second-biggest of Lürssen's four superyachts expected to launch this year, Project Deep Blue may not be delivered to its owner until 2025, according to several expert forecasts.

Details about the project are scant. Even the final length of the superyacht is uncertain, but it's believed to measure at least 427 feet (130m).

No doubt the owner is delighted with the sophisticated exterior design, which bears similarities to Lürssen's Ahpo (now named Lady Jorgia).  

SuperYachtFan reports Project Deep Blue is expected to accommodate 24 guests and a crew of 45. It estimates the vessel would cost a staggering $450 million (£353m), with punishing yearly running costs of $45 million (£35m). The website has vaguely identified the owner as an Indian or Chinese billionaire.

Project Luminance: Cost $500 million (£392m)

The biggest of Lürssen's four show-stopping superyachts hitting the water in 2024, Project Luminance spans a whopping 475 feet (145m), making it almost as long as three Olympic-sized swimming pools.

The superyacht was originally slated for completion last year, but the delivery date has since been put back. A masterpiece of nautical design, Project Luminance wows thanks to its exterior by Monaco-based Espen Øino and equally elegant interiors by French studio Zuretti Interior Design.

Project Luminance is estimated to accommodate as many as 24 guests across 12 opulent staterooms. Amenities are fantastically lavish, with the vessel reportedly boasting two helipads and a massive swimming pool, which comes complete with an adjacent dip pool.

Reported to cost in excess of $500 million (£392m), Project Luminance was commissioned by Rinat Akhmetov, the richest person in Ukraine.

A report in The New York Times in 2022 suggested Akhmetov was considering selling the vessel in light of Russia's invasion of his home country. Still, it appears the billionaire might have decided to keep it for now. And who can blame him?

Somnio: Cost $600 million (£470m)

Putting this year's other launches firmly in the shade, Somnio spans a colossal 728 feet (222m), making it the largest superyacht ever built.

The world's first "yacht-liner", this $600 million (£470m) floating palace for the mega-rich is billed as "the most exclusive address in the world" and will cruise the planet's iconic yachting destinations, from Monaco to French Polynesia.

Somnio features 39 luxe private residences and a wealth of "six-star" amenities, including an enormous resort-style swimming pool, premium spa, opulent cinema, gourmet restaurants, 10,000-bottle wine cellar, and a library.

Nearing completion at Norway's Vard shipyard, the six-deck nautical extravaganza is a collaboration between Somnio, Fincantieri, and Vard, while Tillberg Design of Sweden and the UK's Winch Design have looked after the interior design.

The potential occupants of the 39 apartments are being carefully hand-picked. On offer are units with two to four bedrooms, with the option to fully customise them with the likes of a gym, personal kitchen, library, and more.

Those lucky enough to get a Somnio invite can expect to pay from $22 million (£17m) to secure a cabin in the elite vessel, with service charges likely to be sky-high too.

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Local News | ‘Wildly popular’: Watch a new live fish cam…

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Local news | ‘wildly popular’: watch a new live fish cam that just debuted in south florida.

Pompano Beach has installed a high-resolution underwater webcam 15 feet below the Fisher Family Pier to livestream the high-definition video of the fish.

The webcam can be found at https://www.pompanobeachfl.gov/webcams .

The camera was a gift from Shipwreck Park, a nonprofit Pompano Beach corporation, which is behind underwater art exhibitions that both creates artificial reefs to attract fish — and attract divers looking for a great selfie.

Shipwreck Park consists of two dive sites that have artificial reefs, both about a mile off the Pompano Beach Coast: the Lady Luck and the Okinawa, both decommissioned ships that are located in what is billed as among the most easily accessible major dive sites in the U.S.

Since going live Tuesday, the livestream has been played 74,000 times by 58,000 people, said city spokeswoman Sandra King.

“The underwater camera is wildly popular,” King said. “It is mesmerizing and calming to listen to the water and watch the fish swim and get carried with a current. People have already started to call it Fishcam. One commented she wants to name one particular fish that keeps swimming in front of the camera!”

This is the third camera offered by Pompano Beach. One is on the beach, and the other is at Hillsboro Park at the inlet, although both of those are land views.

Pompano’s new camera has some resemblance to the popular webcam in neighboring Deerfield Beach . There, the underwater “Fish Cam” streams continuously day and night on the city’s YouTube page .

“Get ready to dive deep without getting wet!” Pompano Beach declared.

“It shows off another side of Pompano Beach — the beauty that exists here,” said Rob Wyre, Shipwreck Park chair.

The $25,000 camera “pans and zooms and tilts,” he said. “We can change the view to whatever is happening.”

Lisa J. Huriash can be reached at [email protected]. Follow on X, formerly Twitter @LisaHuriash

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