super yacht meaning

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser or activate Google Chrome Frame to improve your experience.

• Link to search page
• US: +1 (561) 833 4462
• US: +1 (206) 209-1920
• MC: +377 99 90 74 63

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.

FEATURED YACHTS FOR SALE

FEATURED YACHTS FOR CHARTER

SELL YOUR YACHT WITH WORTH

LUXURY YACHT CHARTER ITINERARIES

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.

Experience the Allure of Villa Ardore

Discover an unforgettable Italian adventure through the exclusive partnership of Worth Avenue Yachts and Villa Ardore, meticulously customized to match your unique preferences.

Palmer Johnson Yacht FOUR JACKS – An Exceptional Performance Yacht

This Palmer Johnson 150 is a remarkable example of modern, speedy yacht design, courtesy of Nuvolari Lenard. It features a luxurious interior that includes five staterooms, highlighted by the coveted on-deck Owner’s stateroom configuration, complemented by four additional staterooms below deck, and extensive crew quarters. Maintained in pristine condition by a dedicated professional crew, this single-owner yacht exemplifies top-tier upkeep. Fitted with Gyro stabilizers for stability while anchored and conventional stabilizers for smooth sailing, FOUR JACKS delivers unparalleled comfort in any sea state.

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

THE EQUITES by Azimut: Craftsmanship and Opulence

THE EQUITES by Azimut: A Odyssey of Craftsmanship and LUXURY THE EQUITES, an exquisite luxury yacht measuring an impressive 76ft / 23.16m, stands proudly

Explore elegance, and unforgettable moments aboard SEA SPUR

EXPLORE OPULENCE, ELEGANCE, AND UNFORGETTABLE MOMENTS ABOARD SEA SPUR Motoryacht SEA SPUR, an embodiment of maritime opulence, commands attention with its impressive length of

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.

Latest stories

Upcoming events

Sign up to our newsletter

Stay in the loop.

Subscribe to our newsletter to keep updated with all things Burgess.

What would you like emails about?

• Chartering a yacht
• Buying or selling a yacht
• General superyacht news

In order to understand how we use and protect your personal information, please read our privacy policy .

• Mediterranean
• French Riviera
• Corsica & Sardinia
• The Balearics
• Croatia & Montenegro
• The Bahamas
• Caribbean - Leeward Islands
• Caribbean - Windward Islands
• British Virgin Islands
• US Virgin Islands
• New England
• Indian Ocean
• South East Asia
• French Polynesia
• The Red Sea
• Motor yachts for charter
• Sailing yachts for charter
• Latest offers
• Destinations
• New to charter
• Meet the Charter team
• Superyacht videos
• 360° yacht tours
• Corporate & event charters
• Inspiring charter ideas
• Charter FAQs
• Every day different

Charter NAIA

Available in the West Med or Adriatic this summer

Exciting fleet of tenders and toys to keep everyone active, plus gym, jacuzzi and on board masseuse

Available in the Balearics this summer

Exhilarating 25 knot performance, huge sunpad and open-air lounge plus stunning beach club

• Motor yachts for sale
• Sailing yachts for sale
• Yachts for sale over 200 feet
• Yachts for sale from 150 to 200 feet
• Yachts for sale under 150 feet
• Tenders and chase boats for sale
• Yachts under construction
• Meet the Brokerage team
• Berths for sale
• Sold yachts
• Yacht marketing
• Delivered yachts
• Yacht designers
• New Build Sales
• Meet the Technical Services team
• Meet the Yacht Management team
• Crew vacancies
• Meet the Crew Services team
• Procurement Services
• Charter Management
• Sales Management
• Yacht Marketing
• Meet the Insurance team
• 360 degree yacht tours
• Boat shows and events
• Office vacancies
• Talent pool
• Office locations
• Burgess in Asia
• Burgess Blue Oceans
• Strategic partners
• Press centre
• Company Operations
• Crew Services
• New Business
• Technical Services
• Yacht Management
• Burgess Impact Report 2023

Filter your results

• Yachts for charter
• Yachts for sale

• Frank Magazine
• Denison History
• Virtual Tours
• Alaskan Yachts
• Azimut Yachts
• Back Cove Yachts
• Beneteau Yachts
• Benetti Superyachts
• Bertram Yachts
• Boston Whaler
• Broward Yachts
• Buddy Davis Sportfish
• Burger Yachts
• Cabo Yachts
• Carver Motoryachts
• Center Console
• Chris-Craft Yachts
• Cruisers Yachts
• DeFever Trawlers
• Dufour Sailboats
• Fairline Yachts
• Feadship Yachts
• Ferretti Yachts
• Formula Yachts
• Fountaine Pajot Cats
• Grady-White
• Grand Banks Trawlers
• Hargrave Yachts
• Hatteras Yachts
• Hinckley Picnic Boats
• Horizon Yachts
• Hydra-Sports
• Intrepid Boats
• Jarrett Bay Sportfish
• Jeanneau Yachts
• Kadey-Krogen Trawlers
• Lazzara Yachts
• Luhrs Sportfish
• Marlow Yachts
• Maritimo Yachts
• Marquis Yachts
• McKinna Motoryachts
• Meridian Yachts
• Midnight Express
• Mochi Craft
• Neptunus Motoryachts
• Nordhavn Trawlers
• Nordic Tugs
• Ocean Alexander Yachts
• Offshore Yachts
• Oyster Sailing Yachts
• Pacific Mariner Yachts
• Palmer Johnson Yachts
• Pershing Yachts
• Prestige Yachts
• Princess Yachts
• Pursuit Yachts
• Riva Yachts
• Riviera Yachts
• Sabre Downeast
• San Lorenzo Yachts
• Sea Ray Boats
• SeaVee Central Consoles
• Selene Trawlers
• Scout Yachts
• Sunseeker Yachts
• Tiara Yachts
• Trinity Superyachts
• Viking Yachts
• Westport Yachts

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

Speak with a Superyacht Specialist:

Latest news.

NEWS | March 21, 2024

Extra yachts makes north american debut at the 2024 palm beach boat show.

EXTRA Yachts Makes North American Debut at the 2024 Palm Beach Boat Show EXTRA Yachts will be making its North American debut with Denison with its X99 Fast yacht, MINI K2. Denison Yachting is pleased to announce that its partner EXTRA Yachts will be making its North American debut with Denison at the

NEWS | March 20, 2024

The italian art of shipbuilding.

The Italian Art of Shipbuilding The Denison sales team tours 15 shipyards in Italy. This article was written by Sarah Nadler. The birthplace of all things beautiful, Italy has long been known worldwide as one of the superpowers of building boats. With a long history

How to Qualify a Yacht Broker

How to Qualify a Yacht Broker A good broker can be hard to find when looking to buy or sell your boat. Denison yacht brokers weigh in on what makes a broker a good one. Brokers come in all shapes and sizes. Some yacht brokers have

• Articles and Guides

Superyachts 101: All Your Questions Answered

26th may 2022 by samantha wilson.

There is something fascinating about superyachts. Their size, glamour and innovation pique our curiosity and, for boat owners in particular, are the epitome of boating luxury. Whether you’re in the market to buy a superyacht, considering your first superyacht charter or simply a boat fan who wants to understand more about these famous yachts, then we’ve got all the top asked questions answered for you. This is superyacht trivia 101:

What Defines a Superyacht?

Superyachts are defined as motor yachts or sailing yachts over 24 metres in length. The size and variety within those parameters are enormous, as the yachts can range from 24 metres to 100 metres +. While superyachts are synonymous with on board swimming pools or hot tubs, helipads, large tenders, spacious decks and large crews, the true classification actually depends on length. 

How Many Superyachts are there?

With the superyacht industry’s order book bulging and new superyachts hitting the water every month, it is hard to give an exact number, but there are around 10,000 yachts worldwide measuring 24 metres or more. With over 1,000 superyachts on order for 2022 alone, it is a clear picture of the boom the industry is currently undergoing. In fact, there is an estimated 40 kilometres of superyachts due to be built and launched by 2026. 

What are the Biggest Superyachts?

The current longest superyacht in the world is Azzam at 180.61metres. She was built in 2013 by Lurssen shipyard and has held the title ever since. Some of the other yachts in the top 10 largest superyachts list include Eclipse at 162.5 metres built by Blohm and Voss for Paul Allen in 2010, Dubai at 162 metres, Blue at 160 metres, Dilbar at 156 metres, Al Said at 155 metres and A+ at 147.25 metres. Sailing Yacht A is the largest sailing yacht at 142.81 metres. 

How much do Superyachts Cost?

It is no secret that superyachts are one of the most expensive luxury items in the world, and often far outprice even the largest of real estate properties. Joining the elite group of superyacht owners requires a healthy capital, not just for the initial purchase price but for the annual upkeep, which can easily run into the millions (read our article on the True Price of Owning a Superyacht). Having said that, superyachts come in all shapes and sizes and the price for a smaller superyacht (in the 24 metre category) will be far less than a larger vessel, as will an older yacht compared to a new build. 

The average sale price for a superyacht is around €8 million, however a 24 metre yacht could be around €1 million (or less for used superyachts), €11 million in the 40m-50m category, €24 million in the 50m-70m category and around €80 million for yachts of 70m or more. Some of the largest yachts in the world (those over 100 metres in length) can go for up to as €175 million. 

What are the Most Expensive Superyachts?

For the most part, the largest yachts in the world generally rank as the most expensive. The largest yacht ever built, the 180 metre long Azzam, cost over €550 million to build in 2013, while Roman Abramovich’s Eclipse is believed to have cost a staggering $1.5 billion. Another yacht on the billion dollar list is the new 155 metre Streets of Monaco. Designed to feature mini versions of Monaco’s landmarks it will also boast a go-kart circuit, three swimming pools, a mini-submarine, helipad, a waterfall and a dining room with an underwater observatory.  

However the most expensive superyacht in the world is History Supreme, a seemingly modest 30 metre superyacht that cost an incredible $4.8 billion. While it seems incredulous that a 30 metre yacht could cost more than those in the 140 metre category, History Supreme is built from an astonishing 10,000 kilograms of solid gold and platinum adorning the dining area, deck, rails, staircases and even the anchor. There is also a meteorite rock wall in the master suite, a statue made of Tyrannosaurus Rex bones, a 68kg 24-carat gold Aquavista Panoramic Wall Aquarium, and a bottle adorned with a rare 18.5-carat diamond.

Where can I find Superyachts for Sale?

Superyachts are sold via brokerage firms whose brokers are the best in the business and have the contacts, knowledge, experience and resources to connect a potential superyacht owner with their perfect yacht. You will find brokerages all over the world, with a concentration in the United States and Europe where many boats are bought and sold. Online boat selling marketplaces such as Rightboat.com are one of the best and easiest ways to see dozens of superyachts for sale in Europe, the United States and beyond, peruse their specifications, and see photographs and videos. They make it extremely easy to connect you with the relevant brokers to make further enquiries and are on hand to answer any questions.

Superyacht shows such as the Monaco Yacht Show are also important places to find out more about superyachts and talk to shipyards about new builds. You will find many superyachts all in one place that you can view with the brokers and get a good feel for what you like. 

How can I Charter a Superyacht?

Chartering a superyacht is a dream holiday, and often the first step for those considering buying a superyacht. With a full crew, plenty of space for friends and family, and hundreds of incredible destinations to choose from, a luxury superyacht charter is an experience you’ll never forget. Made even more popular by the TV reality show Below Deck , which follows the crew and guests of charter yachts, it is becoming the ultimate vacation experience. 

You can charter a superyacht directly from Charter & Dreams . Check out our articles to discover how much it costs to charter a superyacht or read through our top charter FAQs . 

Where can I find superyacht jobs?

Working on a superyacht is an incredible experience and a chance to travel the world. It is a competitive industry, and working hours are long, but with more and more superyachts hitting the seas each year the demand for crew continues to grow. Superyacht crew range from junior level deck and interior crew, who will need basic qualifications, to the most experienced and highly qualified members such as engineers, first officers and captains. There are crew agencies who work alongside yachts to place all kinds of crew members, from the chefs to specialist crew such as helicopter pilots or scuba diving instructors.   

Rightboat.com is the largest online boat selling marketplace in the world, with new and used superyachts of all sizes for sale. Discover the latest superyachts to hit the market or browse through our library of articles and blogs on everything to do with boats, yachting and the superyacht lifestyle. 

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

Related Articles and Guides

20th Mar 2024

Best Wakesurf Boat Brands

4th Mar 2024

The Best Flats Boats Brands, Special Boats for Skinny Waters

21st Feb 2024

Best Lake Boat Brands for Fishing, Cruising, and Watersports

15th Feb 2024

Best Aluminum Fishing Boat Brands: Tougher, Lighter and More Affordable

• Explore Rightboat
• Boats for Sale
• Boating Articles
• Buyers Guide
• About RightBoat
• Sell Your Boat
• Boat Selling Advice

Enter your email to keep up to date with the latest news

Join for free

Sign up now for free and discover how easy it is to keep up to date with THE latest boats for sale. Find your right boat, and tailor your voyage to finding your next boat.

Benefits of becoming a member:

• Set up tailored alerts
• Personalise your experience
• Download full specifications and broker details
• Keep tabs on your favourite boats

Are you a broker? Join as a Broker

Rightboat - join for free.

Do you have an account already? Login

Save this search

Save your search and receive new boats in your email..

You can unsubscribe from your alerts whenever you like. By pressing the button you accept the Legal Terms and conditions

The global authority in superyachting

• NEWSLETTERS
• Yachts Home
• The Superyacht Directory
• Yacht Reports
• Brokerage News
• The largest yachts in the world
• The Register
• Yacht Advice
• Yacht Design
• 12m to 24m yachts
• Monaco Yacht Show
• Builder Directory
• Designer Directory
• Interior Design Directory
• Naval Architect Directory
• Yachts for sale home
• Motor yachts
• Sailing yachts
• Explorer yachts
• Classic yachts
• Sale Broker Directory
• Charter Home
• Yachts for Charter
• Charter Destinations
• Charter Broker Directory
• Destinations Home
• Mediterranean
• South Pacific
• Rest of the World
• Boat Life Home
• Owners' Experiences
• Interiors Suppliers
• Owners' Club
• Captains' Club
• BOAT Showcase
• Boat Presents
• Events Home
• World Superyacht Awards
• Superyacht Design Festival
• Design and Innovation Awards
• Young Designer of the Year Award
• Artistry and Craft Awards
• Explorer Yachts Summit
• Ocean Talks
• The Ocean Awards
• BOAT Connect
• Between the bays
• Golf Invitational
• Boat Pro Home
• Pricing Plan
• Superyacht Insight
• Product Features
• Premium Content
• Testimonials
• Global Order Book
• Tenders & Equipment

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.

More about this yacht

Yachts for sale, yachts for charter, more stories, most popular, from our partners, sponsored listings.

Definition of 'superyacht'

Superyacht in british english.

Browse alphabetically superyacht

• All ENGLISH words that begin with 'S'

Quick word challenge

Quiz Review

Score: 0 / 5

Wordle Helper

Scrabble Tools

• Understanding the yachting world: Definitions and origins

The world of yachting and sailing is a realm of elegance, adventure, and rich history. However, the terminology surrounding these nautical activities can sometimes be confusing. From the definition of a yacht to the spelling of various sailing-related terms, this article sets out to demystify the language of the seas, offering insight into the origins and meanings of these captivating words.

Decoding the yacht: Definition and origin

A yacht is more than a vessel; it's a symbol of luxury and sophistication. Derived from the Dutch word "jacht," meaning "hunt" or "chase," yachts were initially swift, maneuverable ships used for pursuit. Over time, yachts have evolved into opulent pleasure craft enjoyed by sailing enthusiasts and the elite.

Exploring the nautical term "sailing"

Sailing goes beyond moving through water using wind power; it encapsulates a spirit of exploration and freedom. It's the art of harnessing wind energy to navigate the vast oceans, representing a harmonious relationship between humans and nature.

Read our top notch articles on topics such as sailing, sailing tips and destinations in our Magazine .

Unveiling the word "yacht" and its meaning

The term "yacht" conjures images of sleek vessels gliding gracefully across the water. Its meaning, however, extends beyond aesthetics. A yacht signifies an elegant and luxurious ship, often associated with pleasure and leisure rather than utilitarian purposes.

Yachting in focus: Definition and significance

Yachting is the activity of sailing on a yacht, encompassing both recreational and competitive aspects. It's a way to experience the allure of the open waters while indulging in the comforts and amenities offered by these sophisticated vessels.

The intricacies of yacht pronunciation

The pronunciation of "yacht" varies across regions, with some emphasizing the "ch" sound, while others opt for a softer "y" sound. This linguistic diversity adds an interesting layer to the yachting world, reflecting the global appeal of sailing.

Luxury yacht

Name or yacht? Understanding the terminology

In the yachting community, the term "name yacht" refers to a yacht that is well-known and often carries a reputation. These yachts are associated with luxury, innovation, and the personalities of their owners.

Diving into the origins of yachts

The origin of yachts traces back to the 17th century Netherlands, where they were initially used for naval purposes and later transformed into vessels for recreational sailing. Their evolution mirrors the changing perceptions of sailing from utility to leisure.

Yacht vs. yatch: Spelling matters

The correct spelling is "yacht," and "yatch" is a common misspelling. Spelling accuracy is vital, especially in maritime communication, where precision ensures clear understanding and effective conveyance of information.

Sailing terminology: What is a dinghy?

A dinghy is a small, open boat often used for short trips, transportation between a larger vessel and the shore, or for recreational sailing. Dinghies come in various sizes and are an essential part of sailing activities.

Deciphering "catamaran" and its spelling

A catamaran is a type of boat characterized by two parallel hulls connected by a deck. The spelling is "catamaran," and understanding this term is crucial for discussing and identifying different types of vessels.

Sailing's essence: The word and its meaning

Sailing embodies more than the physical act; it's a metaphor for life's journey. Just as sailors navigate challenges on the water, individuals navigate the currents of their lives, guided by the winds of opportunity and the compass of determination.

The language of yachting and sailing is rich with history and significance. From the definition of a yacht to the meaning of sailing-related terms, understanding these words enhances our appreciation of the maritime world and the timeless allure of the seas.

So what are you waiting for? Take a look at our range of charter boats and head to some of our favourite sailing destinations .

FAQs about definitions and origins

• More from M-W
• To save this word, you'll need to log in. Log In

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.

Why does English have so many silent...

Why does English have so many silent letters?

Inexplicable silent letters, explained

Words of the Week - March 4

The words that defined the week ending March 4th, 2022

Dictionary Entries Near yacht

yacht chair

Cite this Entry

“Yacht.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/yacht. Accessed 25 Mar. 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

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for yacht

Nglish: Translation of yacht for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of yacht for Arabic Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about yacht

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

Can you solve 4 words at once?

Word of the day.

See Definitions and Examples »

Get Word of the Day daily email!

Popular in Grammar & Usage

8 grammar terms you used to know, but forgot, homophones, homographs, and homonyms, commonly misspelled words, how to use em dashes (—), en dashes (–) , and hyphens (-), absent letters that are heard anyway, popular in wordplay, the words of the week - mar. 22, 12 words for signs of spring, 9 superb owl words, 'gaslighting,' 'woke,' 'democracy,' and other top lookups, fan favorites: your most liked words of the day 2023, games & quizzes.

Words and phrases

Personal account.

• Access or purchase personal subscriptions
• Get our newsletter
• Save searches
• Set display preferences

Institutional access

Sign in with library card

Sign in with username / password

Recommend to your librarian

Institutional account management

Sign in as administrator on Oxford Academic

superyacht noun

• Hide all quotations

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.

Please include your email address if you are happy to be contacted about your feedback. OUP will not use this email address for any other purpose.

Citation details

Factsheet for superyacht, n., browse entry.

Industry Insight

Commonly used superyacht terminology.

March 25, 2022

6 minute read

Aft deck on Tatiana yacht charter

Superyacht terminology

AFT – In direction of the back (stern) of the vessel.

AFT DECK – One or more decks located on the back (stern) of the boat.

AMIDSHIPS – In the middle of the vessel, regardless of which deck.

ANCHORAGE – A location ideal for anchoring a sea vessel.

APA – Advance Provisioning Allowance – APA is a sum needed for provisions, paid to your yacht captain before the start of the charter. This allowance includes necessities like fuel, port fees and drinks. Your yacht`s purser will handle the accounts for the duration of the charter and inform the primary guest of any extra expenditures; any amount still left over will be refunded.

ASTERN – The direction toward or beyond the back of the boat (stern).

AWEIGH – An anchor that is off the bottom.

BASE CHARTER RATE – The amount needed to cover the expenses for the yacht and crew. This does not include provisioning or other expenses such as food, fuel, dockage and tip.

BERTH – A place to dock or tie the yacht on a fixed anchoring position, usually in a marina or on a seaside promenade.

BERTH – A bed on a yacht

BEAM – The maximum width of the yacht.

BEACH CLUB – A spot on a yacht located on the back, used to enjoy the water as close as possible. Also, a perfect place to enjoy water toys.

BOSUN – An officer in charge of the deck crew.

BOW – The forward-facing part of a yacht.

BRIDGE – The place from where a yacht captain navigates; see also HELM.

BULKHEAD – A vertical partition that separates compartments in a yachts hull.

BAREBOAT – A yacht for rent without any crew, or only with a skipper.

CAST OFF – To start a sea voyage.

CATAMARAN – A twin-hulled sea vessel, with hulls connected parallel to each other, which gives more space and buoyancy than in more conventional designs.

COURSE – The direction in which a yacht is cruising.

CHARTER YACHT – A yacht that is available for rent.

CREW- The group of professional sea-farers that operate a yacht.

CYBA – Charter Yacht Broker Association.

DEAD AHEAD – Directly in front of a vessel.

DECK – A `floor` or a level of a yacht; bigger yachts have a bigger number of decks, but the usual configuration includes lower deck, main deck and upper deck, which can then take the form of a sundeck, flybridge, sky lounge or a combination of latter three.

DINGHY – See TENDER.

DISPLACEMENT – The weight of a yacht calculated by how much water a yachts hull displaces.

DOCK – A protected water area in which yachts can berth. A dock can be `wet` or `dry`, depending on if the yacht is in water or on dry land.

DOUBLE CABIN – a cabin on a yacht featuring a double berth

EMBARK- to enter a yacht; to climb aboard a yacht; (DIS)EMBARK -to leave a yacht, usually on a dock

FENDER – A rubber cushion that prevents direct collision between multiple yachts or a yacht and a pier.

FIRST MATE – A crew member that is ranked second after the captain.

FLYBRIDGE – An exterior helm station, raised above the main deck of a yacht. It provides a clear line of sight and enables the captain to steer the yacht.

GALLEY – The kitchen on a yacht, usually located on the main deck or the lower deck.

GANGWAY – An area on one side of a yacht, used for embarking and disembarking.

HATCH – An opening in a boat deck fitted with a watertight cover.

HEAD – Another term for a toilet.

HEADING – The direction in which a yacht is cruising.

HELM – The wheel that controls the rudder; steering the helm determines the heading.

HELM STATION – See WHEELHOUSE.

HULL – The main body of a yacht, typically the one that is in contact with the water.

ITINERARY – A planned route that a yacht will travel on a specific charter holiday. It is planned in advance, but not set in stone; versatility and flexibility should be maintained, for the sake of guests and weather conditions.

KEEL – The backbone of a yacht.

KNOT – A measurement of speed used on sea vessels. One knot is equal to 6070 feet per hour or 1.8 km/h.

LAZARETTE – A storage space that is located on a yacht`s stern.

MARINA – A place where sea vessels can moor and access services like water, fuel and provisions.

MAST – The central vertical pole that supports the sails on a sailing yacht.

MASTER CABIN- the most luxurious and biggest cabin on a yacht, designated for the owner or the primary charter guest

MONOHULL – A sea vessel with one hull. Opposite to a twinhull vessel, like a catamaran, or a multihull vessel, like a trimarine.

MYBA – the Mediterranean Yacht Brokers Association.

PASSERELLE – The walkway that allows guests to board the yacht from a dock.

PERSONAL FLOTATION DEVICE – A life-jacket used to keep a person afloat

POWER CATAMARAN – A catamaran or a twinhull powered by an engine, rather than a sail.

PREFERENCE SHEET – A short series of questions that allows guests to specify their preferences regarding food and drink before the charter starts. It allows the crew to be informed about allergies and favourite foods, as well as beverages and entertainment.

PULLMAN (BERTH) – A berth that is located above another single berth. It pulls out, remaining hidden and out of sight when not in use, creating a potential bunk-bed arrangement.

RUDDER – A vertical plate or board for steering a boat.

SAILING YACHT – A yacht whose primary method of propulsion is sailing. Nearly all sailing yachts have engines in addition to their sails.

STABILIZERS – An amenity on a yacht that helps to prevent a yacht from rolling dynamically. These are particularly useful in bad weather.

STARBOARD – The right side of a yacht when looking towards the bow.

STERN – The backside of a yacht.

SWIM PLATFORM – Sometimes synonymous with the beach club. This space is used to enter the sea via a swim ladder.

SAILING YACHT – A yacht that uses the power of wind and sail to move through the water

SKY LOUNGE – An interior area on a yacht`s elevated deck. The space is primarily used for fun activities, like a yacht cinema, cocktail parties or socialising after dining.

SUNDECK – An open area on a yacht designated for sunbathing, usually equipped with added features like parasails, bimini, wet bar or comfortable sunbed or sun chairs.

SUPERSTRUCTURE – A part of a yacht attached to the hull; anything that is not the lower deck is considered to be part of a superstructure.

TENDER – A small boat that a yacht carries, primarily used for visits to shore, but also as a crucial part of many towable water toys.

TWIN CABIN – A cabin in a yacht that features two single-sized berths in different arrangements. Often, twin cabins are equipped with Pullman berths also.

VHF – Very high frequency.

VIP CABIN – The second-best cabin on a yacht charter.

VAT – Value-added tax; a tax charged for booking yachts in Europe.

WHEELHOUSE- A place from where a yacht captain steers the yacht.

YACHT – A pleasure sea vessel.

ZERO-SPEED STABILIZERS – The best and most technologically advanced stabilizers, that keep the yacht from rolling, both when at anchor or underway.

SuperYachts Croatia

Is a yacht connoisseur, agent, broker, local tour operator, destination manager, organizer ... a wholehearted company that will provide you with a list of luxury yachts available for charter in Croatia. Find all relevant information about your yacht charter & get in touch with us in order to book your dream superyacht.

Why Croatia

Pag – The Best Party Island in Croatia

Best beach bars, lounge bars and night clubs for yacht charter guests in Croatia

Yacht Charter Experiences

Towable water toys on yachts

Inflatable water toys aboard yachts in Croatia

Charter Yachts

We present to you the best selling yachts for charter in 2021. Slide through these different yachts, ranging from 20 to 80 meters in length, and choose the best option for you. If you have any questions regarding yacht charter, destinations & yacht support, contact us.

from 105.000 € p/w

31m | 11 guests

from 210.000 € p/w

43m | 12 guests

from 160.000 € p/w

47m | 12 guests

from 76.875 € p/w

25m | 8 guests

from 775.000 € p/w

80m | 12 guests

from 72.000 € p/w

30m | 8 guests

from 30.000 € p/w

24m | 8 guests

from 280.000 € p/w

55m | 12 guests

from 99.800 € p/w

39m | 12 guests

from 155.000 € p/w

44m | 12 guests

from 64.000 € p/w

31m | 10 guests

from 218.000 € p/w

45m | 10 guests

from 54.000 € p/w

26m | 8 guests

Spice of Life II

from 18.000 € p/w

20m | 6 guests

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies
• 3rd Party Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

This website uses Google Analytics to collect anonymous information such as the number of visitors to the site, and the most popular pages.

Keeping this cookie enabled helps us to improve our website.

Please enable Strictly Necessary Cookies first so that we can save your preferences!

What is a Superyacht Tender? (A COMPLETE GUIDE)

Are you considering purchasing a superyacht tender? If so, youve come to the right place.

In this complete guide, youll discover the definition of a superyacht tender, the types and amenities of tenders, the benefits of a tender, popular brands of tenders, how to maintain a tender, and the regulations surrounding superyacht tenders.

Read on to learn all you need to know about purchasing and using a superyacht tender.

Table of Contents

Short Answer

A superyacht tender is a small boat that is used to transport passengers and cargo from a larger yacht to a shore or another vessel.

They are typically smaller than the yacht itself and are designed with a shallow draft for navigating shallow waters.

Superyacht tenders come in a variety of sizes and styles, and they can be powered by gasoline, diesel, or electric engines.

They can also be equipped with luxurious amenities such as air conditioning , large sun decks, and sound systems.

What is a Superyacht Tender?

A superyacht tender is a small vessel used to transport passengers and goods from a larger yacht to land or other vessels.

Superyacht tenders are usually high-performance vessels, designed to be fast, luxurious, and reliable.

Commonly, they will be equipped with amenities such as air conditioning, entertainment systems, and wet bars, making them ideal for both recreational activities and for transportation purposes.

Superyacht tenders are typically smaller than the main yacht and have the ability to be deployed quickly and efficiently, making them ideal for exploring nearby areas while travelling in luxury.

They are usually powered by outboard motors, making them easy to maneuver and allowing them to reach higher speeds.

They can also be used for a variety of activities such as fishing, watersports, and sightseeing.

Superyacht tenders come in a variety of sizes, from smaller tenders designed for two to three passengers, to larger tenders that can accommodate up to ten people.

Some of the larger tenders are fitted with multiple cabins, bathrooms, and other amenities, making them ideal for overnight trips and longer journeys.

Superyacht tenders are a great way to explore the waters and experience the beauty of the environment around you.

They provide a safe and comfortable way for owners and their guests to explore their surroundings as they travel in luxury.

Whether you are looking for a way to explore the coastline or simply want to relax and enjoy the scenery, a superyacht tender is the perfect choice.

Benefits of a Superyacht Tender

Superyacht tenders offer a variety of benefits to yacht owners and their guests. These vessels are designed to be fast, luxurious, and reliable, providing a safe and comfortable way for owners and their guests to explore their surroundings as they travel in luxury. Here are some of the main benefits of owning a superyacht tender:

1. Speed and Performance: Superyacht tenders are designed to be fast and maneuverable, allowing for quick and easy transport from a larger yacht to land or other vessels. This makes them ideal for recreational activities such as sightseeing, fishing, or water sports.

2. Luxury Amenities: Superyacht tenders are often equipped with amenities such as air conditioning, entertainment systems, and wet bars. These amenities provide a comfortable and enjoyable experience for passengers, allowing them to relax and enjoy the ride.

3. Versatility: Superyacht tenders are available in a variety of sizes and designs, making them suitable for a wide range of uses. They can be used for recreational purposes, transportation, or utility purposes, giving owners the flexibility to customize them to their needs.

4. Safety: Superyacht tenders are designed to be reliable and safe. They are equipped with features such as navigation systems and communication systems, ensuring passengers are always connected and safe while on board.

Overall, superyacht tenders are a great option for yacht owners who want to explore their surroundings in luxury and comfort.

With their speed, luxury amenities, versatility, and safety, these vessels provide an excellent platform for recreational and transportation purposes.

Types of Superyacht Tenders

Superyacht tenders come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so its important to consider the type of vessel that best fits your needs.

The most common types of superyacht tenders are rigid-hulled inflatable boats (RIBs), high-speed tenders, and yachts tenders.

Rigid-hulled inflatable boats (RIBs) are lightweight, durable, and typically powered by outboard engines.

RIBs are popular for their maneuverability, speed, and affordability, making them a great choice for recreational use.

They are also a great option for transporting goods and passengers to and from a larger yacht.

High-speed tenders are designed for maximum speed and luxury.

These vessels are larger than RIBs and are typically powered by multiple engines, allowing them to reach speeds of up to 40 knots or more.

High-speed tenders are perfect for owners and their guests who want to explore their surroundings in style and comfort.

Yacht tenders are larger vessels that are designed to match the style and luxury of the main yacht.

Yacht tenders are typically powered by diesel engines and can reach speeds of up to 30 knots.

These vessels are perfect for transporting guests to and from the main yacht in luxury and comfort.

No matter which type of superyacht tender you choose, you can be sure that it will provide you and your guests with a comfortable and luxurious experience.

From recreational exploration to transporting goods and passengers, superyacht tenders can provide a safe and enjoyable experience.

Amenities of Superyacht Tenders

Superyacht tenders are designed to be fast, reliable, and luxurious, and they come with a range of amenities that make them a great choice for recreational and transportation purposes.

Depending on the size of the tender, you can enjoy features like air conditioning, entertainment systems, and wet bars.

These features allow you to explore your surroundings in comfort and style.

Air conditioning is a great feature to have on your superyacht tender, especially if youre traveling in warm climates or spending time on the water in the summer months.

An air-conditioned cabin can make your journey much more comfortable and enjoyable.

Entertainment systems are also a great addition to superyacht tenders.

You can share movies, music, and videos with your friends and family on board, or stream live sports events or shows.

Many superyacht tenders come with a flat-screen TV and high-end audio systems to give you the ultimate in entertainment.

Wet bars are a great way to entertain your guests, and they can be stocked with alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages to keep everyone happy.

Many superyacht tenders also come with built-in coolers and ice makers to keep your drinks cold.

Finally, some superyacht tenders come with built-in grills so you can prepare meals on board.

This can be a great way to save money while still enjoying a great meal.

For the ultimate in luxury and comfort, superyacht tenders are the perfect choice.

With their variety of amenities, you can explore your surroundings in style and comfort.

Popular Brands of Superyacht Tenders

When it comes to superyacht tenders, there are a few brands that stand out as being some of the most popular and reliable. These brands offer a wide variety of tenders that are perfect for any type of yacht, from smaller day boats to larger luxury vessels. Some of the most popular brands include: Allseas, Avon, Brig, Dariel, Jeanneau, Lower, Novurania, and Zodiac.

Allseas tenders are known for their luxurious interiors, sleek design, and powerful engines.

Avon is another well-known brand with a focus on performance and comfort.

Brigs tenders are known for their stylish and modern designs, as well as their powerful engines.

Dariel offers luxury tenders with high-end amenities such as built-in air conditioning, entertainment systems, and wet bars.

Jeanneau offers a variety of tenders with a focus on luxury and performance.

Lower tenders are known for their innovative designs and powerful engines.

Novurania is known for its range of luxurious tenders, from day boats to larger luxury vessels.

Finally, Zodiac is a well-known brand with a focus on performance and safety.

No matter which brand you choose, you can be sure that youll be getting a quality tender that is perfect for your superyacht.

Each of these brands offers something unique, making it easy to find one that meets your needs and budget.

Whether youre looking for a smaller day boat or a larger luxury vessel, youll be sure to find a superyacht tender from one of these popular brands.

Superyacht Tender Maintenance

When it comes to owning and operating a superyacht tender, it is important to stay on top of regular maintenance to ensure it is running efficiently and safely.

Superyacht tenders are typically designed to be as durable and reliable as possible, but like any vessel, they require a certain amount of maintenance and care.

When it comes to maintenance, there are a few important things to keep in mind.

First, the tender should be kept clean and free of debris.

This includes regularly cleaning and flushing the bilges and engine compartments.

Additionally, the fuel tanks should be checked regularly for any build up of sludge or water.

It is also important to inspect the hoses and wires for any fraying or other damage.

In addition to regular maintenance, it is important to make sure that the tender is properly serviced and inspected by a qualified professional on an annual basis.

This will help to ensure that the engine and other components are functioning properly, and any necessary repairs can be completed in a timely manner.

Additionally, all safety equipment should be regularly inspected and maintained, and any necessary repairs should be made as soon as possible.

Finally, it is important to ensure that the proper fuel and oil is being used in the tender.

Different engines may require different types of fuel or oil, so it is important to check the manufacturers specifications to ensure that the right type is being used.

By staying on top of regular maintenance and inspections, owners and operators of superyacht tenders can ensure that their vessels remain safe and reliable for years to come.

Superyacht Tender Regulations

When it comes to superyacht tenders, there are certain regulations that must be followed.

Generally, any vessel operating in international waters must adhere to the rules and regulations put forth by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS).

In addition, many countries have their own national laws and regulations that apply to vessels operating within their waters.

The most important rule to remember is that all superyacht tenders must be registered and licensed.

Depending on the country, this may include obtaining a Certificate of Registry, registering the vessel and obtaining a navigational license.

In some cases, the vessel may also be required to obtain a Certificate of Compliance from the country it will be operating in.

All of these documents must be kept on board the vessel at all times.

In addition to the registration and licensing requirements, there are also safety regulations that must be followed.

Every vessel must have a certain number of lifejackets and fire extinguishers on board, as well as other safety equipment.

The vessel must also adhere to all navigation laws, such as keeping a proper lookout and avoiding areas with dangerous currents or weather.

Finally, there are certain environmental regulations that must be followed when operating a superyacht tender.

Depending on the country, this may include adhering to emissions standards and noise limits, as well as avoiding dumping of waste or pollutants into the water.

Adhering to these regulations is important in order to ensure the safety of the passengers and crew, as well as the continued protection of the environment.

By following the regulations, owners and crew can ensure that their superyacht tender is operating safely and legally.

Final Thoughts

Having a superyacht tender is a great way to explore the surrounding area in comfort and luxury.

With the variety of sizes, amenities, and brands to choose from, there is sure to be a tender that fits your needs.

Regular maintenance is necessary to ensure the safety and reliability of the tender, and it is important to be aware of any regulations that may apply.

With this information in hand, you are now ready to choose the perfect superyacht tender for your travels.

James Frami

At the age of 15, he and four other friends from his neighborhood constructed their first boat. He has been sailing for almost 30 years and has a wealth of knowledge that he wants to share with others.

Recent Posts

Does Your Boat License Expire? Here's What You Need to Know

Are you a boat owner looking to stay up-to-date on your license requirements? If so, youve come to the right place! In this article, well cover everything you need to know about boat license...

How to Put Skins on Your Boat in Sea of Thieves? (Complete Guide)

There is a unique sense of pride and accomplishment when you show off a boat you customized to your exact specifications. With Sea of Thieves, you can customize your boat to make it look like your...

• Cambridge Dictionary +Plus

Meaning of yacht in English

Your browser doesn't support HTML5 audio

• They spent their annual vacation 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 | Intermediate English

Examples of yacht, collocations with yacht.

These are words often used in combination with yacht .

Click on a collocation to see more examples of it.

Translations of yacht

Get a quick, free translation!

Word of the Day

doctor's orders

used to mean that you must do something because your doctor has told you to do it

Paying attention and listening intently: talking about concentration

Learn more with +Plus

• Recent and Recommended {{#preferredDictionaries}} {{name}} {{/preferredDictionaries}}
• Definitions Clear explanations of natural written and spoken English English Learner’s Dictionary Essential British English Essential American English
• Grammar and thesaurus Usage explanations of natural written and spoken English Grammar Thesaurus
• Pronunciation British and American pronunciations with audio English Pronunciation
• English–Chinese (Simplified) Chinese (Simplified)–English
• English–Chinese (Traditional) Chinese (Traditional)–English
• English–Dutch Dutch–English
• English–French French–English
• English–German German–English
• English–Indonesian Indonesian–English
• English–Italian Italian–English
• English–Japanese Japanese–English
• English–Norwegian Norwegian–English
• English–Polish Polish–English
• English–Portuguese Portuguese–English
• English–Spanish Spanish–English
• English–Swedish Swedish–English
• Dictionary +Plus Word Lists
• English    Noun
• Intermediate    Noun
• Collocations
• Translations
• All translations

Add yacht to one of your lists below, or create a new one.

{{message}}

Something went wrong.

There was a problem sending your report.