what is a super yacht

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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What differentiates a yacht from a superyacht or a mega yacht?

Yachts are an ultimate symbol of luxury, style, and sophistication. These sleek vessels take passengers on journeys through the seas, with all the amenities of a luxurious hotel. Yachts come in three categories- Yachts, Superyachts, and Mega Yachts- each with its own distinct characteristics and features.

Main differences between a yacht and a boat

One of the major difference between a yacht and a boat is the size. Generally, a yacht is a larger vessel that can accommodate more people and offer more space for comfortable living. On the other hand, a boat is smaller and may have limited space. Yachts usually come with luxurious amenities such as upscale furnishings, state-of-the-art equipment, and top-notch technology. 

Another significant difference between yachts and boats is the purpose of use. A yacht is mostly used for pleasure cruising and traveling over long distances, while a boat is typically used for fishing, water skiing, or as a means of transport. Yachts are known to have better stability and are therefore ideal for traveling long distances and in choppy waters. 

In terms of performance, yachts are designed to be faster and offer a smoother ride, thanks to their size and more powerful engines. They can travel at higher speeds for longer periods, making them suitable for longer trips. Boats are typically not as fast or efficient and may require some upgrades to increase their performance.

Features and Comfort are required to be called a Yacht

When it comes to distinguishing between boats and yachts, size is not the only determining factor. A yacht should provide a level of luxury and comfort that goes beyond basic functionality. Some of the key features that are expected in a yacht include top-of-the-line engines, advanced navigation technology, and spacious living quarters.

In terms of comfort, a yacht should be equipped with luxurious amenities such as high-end furniture, plush bedding, and state-of-the-art entertainment systems. It should also offer ample space for entertaining guests, whether that means a large sun deck for hosting cocktail parties or a spacious dining area for serving gourmet meals.

When it comes to cruising, a yacht should offer a smooth ride even in choppy waters. This requires a sturdy hull design, advanced stabilizers, and powerful engines that can propel the vessel through the water at high speeds.

In addition to these features, a yacht should also offer a high level of customization options. Owners should be able to personalize the interior design to meet their individual tastes, and there should be ample storage space for their personal belongings.

What’s the Minimum Length of a Vessel to be called a Yacht

Megayachts are the epitome of luxurious travel on the open seas, and they boast an extensive range of features and equipment that are unmatched in smaller vessels. One of the most prominent features on a megayacht is its massive size, which allows for the inclusion of multiple decks complete with swimming pools, sun loungers, and even outdoor cinemas. These yachts are also equipped with top-of-the-line entertainment systems, including state-of-the-art sound and video equipment, as well as high-speed internet connectivity. But it’s not just about the entertainment; megayachts also come equipped with facilities like helipads, submarines, and jet skis, enabling travellers to access areas that are typically inaccessible by sea. Additionally, the interior design of megayachts is simply breathtaking, featuring opulent lounges, spacious cabins, and world-class dining and cooking facilities.

Read also: Explore the World’s Most Extravagant Superyacht Swimming Pools

The Giga Yacht: is it really a thing?

1. Sailing Yacht A – Measuring 469 feet, Sailing Yacht A is the largest sailing yacht in the world. Designed and built by Nobiskrug, this yacht boasts an innovative design featuring multiple decks, a unique glass-bottomed viewing area, and a high-tech navigation system. The yacht’s interiors, designed by Philippe Starck, are equally impressive, with multiple swimming pools, a large spa, and sophisticated lighting systems.

2. Eclipse – Owned by Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich, Eclipse is one of the largest superyachts in the world, measuring 533 feet. It boasts a sleek and modern exterior design created by Blohm + Voss. The yacht features a plethora of luxurious amenities, including a swimming pool, several hot tubs, a cinema, a gym, and even a submarine.

3. Seven Seas – The 282-foot-long Seven Seas, owned by billionaire Steven Spielberg, was built by Oceanco. The yacht features an understated yet elegant exterior design and luxurious interiors designed by Nuvolari Lenard. One of the unique features of Seven Seas is its infinity pool that can be transformed into a helipad.

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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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What Is a Superyacht?

A superyacht, or mega yacht, is exactly what it sounds like — a large, luxurious, professionally-crewed vessel, loaded with all the amenities you’d expect from a 5-star hotel. Starting out at a length of 24 meters (79 feet), superyachts are decked out with elegant décor, spacious berths, and come equipped with all sorts of “extras.” Expect novelties such as a jacuzzi, barbecue, sound system, a variety of water sport and fishing equipment, and much more. 

How Big is A Superyacht?

According to many official sources, a superyacht has to be over 75 feet in length (23m). In reality, most superyachts range between 24 to 180 meters (79 feet to 590 feet). Most charter superyachts sleep between 6-12 people. While some are fitted out for a fiesta and are equipped to host up to 50 people, like this 50 guest party yacht in Baja, Mexico .

However it takes more than just size to reach elite superyacht status. Total extravagance is necessary to claim the superyacht title. Impressive size and over-the-top opulence unite to create this grandiose yacht, two characteristics that Boataffair requires of each member of its fleet. With a superyacht charter, customer service is also of the utmost importance. Included in the charter price is a crew of highly trained professionals, including scuba and yoga instructors, masseuses, and high-end chefs who accompany guests on the trip and ensure every need is met. 

Whether you’re after a peaceful getaway or want to host the party of the year, there’s a Boataffair superyacht to fit your holiday desires and capacity requirements.

In addition to size and capacity, Boataffair’s superyacht fleet offers a number of lavish perks; from the grand living quarters of this BVI superyacht charter - to the onboard massage therapist aboard this  Christensen Superyacht . Or how about this adventure-ready vessel in Croatia , prepare to have every need met and exceeded. 

How Many Mega Yachts Are There in the World?

Currently, there are more than 10,000 superyachts around the world, with another 150 newly crafted vessels entering the market every year. Here at Boataffair we boast a notable collection and currently we have over 100 superyachts available for charter in 32 different locations around the globe.  

What is the Cost to Charter A Mega Yacht?

The features of magnificent mega yachts are boundless, which begs the question “how much does it cost to charter a superyacht?” While the price per charter tends to be lofty, it is possible to board a mega yacht without breaking the bank.

Superyacht charters can cost as little as €5,000 per day—and remember, that price includes a plethora of complimentary service like airport pick-up and drop-off, gourmet meals, a full bar, fresh juices, water sport and leisure equipment, barbecue set-up, national park and/or landmark entrance fees, laundry services, and a fully-staffed crew.  

Those who do decide to charter a mega yacht always say the level of service, accessible entertainment, and impeccable luxury are well worth the price tag. Chartering a superyacht is ideal for a romantic getaway with a loved one or a unique venue choice to celebrate a birthday or other special events.

Regardless of the reason, one thing’s for sure: a superyacht charter won’t leave you wanting anything more from a holiday. 

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Check out Boataffair’s selection of superyacht charters and start planning your next dream vacation!

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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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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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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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Seattle Boats Afloat Show – Yachts for Sale on Display

The 2024 Seattle Boats Afloat Show will take place from September 12th through the 15th at Seattle’s Lake Union Piers. As the largest floating boat show on the West Coast, Worth Avenue Yachts is excited to have a few exceptional yachts on display available for viewing. Click to learn more about these luxury yachts for sale.

Explore Our Newly Listed Yachts for Sale

Worth Avenue Yachts is thrilled to present our newest market additions. In this blog, we’ll highlight three distinctive luxury yachts: the Palmer Johnson sports yacht SANAM, the newly refit classic Feadship yacht KORU, and the Aegean Schooner YAZZ. Click to read on.

Trinity Yacht NO BAD IDEAS – New Photography

The 160′ Trinity yacht NO BAD IDEAS, recently photographed in the Bahamas, showcases its impressive $20 million refit, bringing the yacht to like-new condition. Highlights include a 10-person swim-deck Jacuzzi, a luxurious main salon with fresh, light decor, and a formal dining area for 12. Click to discover more.

Top Yachts at the 2024 Monaco Yacht Show

Explore the most luxurious yachts at the 2024 Monaco Yacht Show, featuring the stunning SANAM by Palmer Johnson. Join us at Port Hercule this September to discover the latest in superyachting excellence.

KORU: A SUPERYACHT REBORN

Experience the rebirth of Koru, where classic design meets contemporary luxury. Available for sale now exclusively with Worth Avenue Yachts, she promises new beginnings and adventures on the Mediterranean waters.

Exclusive Discount on Bahamas Charter Yacht TOP FIVE II

The Bahamas charter yacht TOP FIVE II, a 200′ Royal Hakvoort luxury yacht designed by Sinot Yacht Architecture & Design, is now available for the summer season at a discounted rate of $500,000 per week. This yacht seamlessly blends traditional aesthetics with modern lines and celebrates a century of excellence in shipbuilding by Royal Hakvoort. Key features include a dedicated owner’s deck with a private jacuzzi and dining area, an onboard cinema, and an expansive upper deck swimming pool. Click to learn more.

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The Top 100

A comprehensive and accurate list of the largest luxury yachts set to launch in 2024.

A live list of the Top 100 largest superyachts in the world as it currently stands.

The Top 100 luxury yachts launched in 2023 who defined the last year in large yachting.

Has your yacht ever been in the Top 100? Search any yacht to view its ranking.

Select any year since 1906 to view the ranks of the Top 100 largest yachts at the time.

A selection of the Top 100 largest yachts, available for charter on Superyachts.com.

View a selection of brokerage yachts in the Top 100 on Superyachts.com.

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The Real Costs of Owning a Superyacht [Complete Guide]

November 25, 2019 1:00 pm

Owning a  superyacht  is a status symbol available only to the world’s wealthiest individuals and corporations. Although there is no strict definition, the Red Ensign Group Yacht Code is applicable to “motor or sailing vessels of 24 meters in load line length and over…and which, at the time, is in commercial use for sport or pleasure and carries no cargo and no more than 12 passengers 1 .” There are currently just over 10,000 superyachts in the world with around 200-250 new builds delivered each year. The vast majority are  motor yachts , with sailing yachts counting for less than 20% of the total. The world’s largest private vessel, Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s 180m (590-foot) AZZAM,  cost $600 million to build when it was delivered in 2013. Eight of the ten most expensive luxury acquisitions of all time were superyachts.

Purchase Cost

Buying a new or used superyacht will most likely cost the buyer several million dollars. Pricing varies widely based on the yacht size, age, and other factors such as builder, guest capacity, speed, range, and more. The market is worldwide and extensive. Any potential buyer would be well-advised to engage a professional, certified broker to guide them in the selection of their dream yacht and through the myriad of complications in making the purchase.

• • Financing the Purchase
• • Immediate Post Purchase Costs

Operating Costs

In years past, owners and their brokers would work on 10% of the purchase price as an estimate of annual operating costs, but the vast range of yacht size, operating location, and usage profile makes this approach less useful without giving the question more thought. Building a budget for a yacht requires consideration of the following elements:

Crew – Salary, payroll taxes, recruitment fees, uniform, health insurance, food, and travel for vacation and repatriation are all crew-related costs. A good guide for salary costs is published by Dockwalk magazine every year based on an extensive survey of the crew and placement agents. Using their most recent article as a guide, a crew of eight full-time crew on a 150-foot yacht will cost over $650,000 per year in salary alone. Get a complete crew cost breakdown.

Dockage – Unless the owner plans to spend the year at anchor, then keeping the yacht in a marina incurs a significant cost. Dockage is normally sold per foot of the yacht’s full length and per night, although contract rates for longer periods may be available. High-quality marinas in peak seasons are currently running in the $6-8 per foot per night range. Electricity, fresh water, and waste removal are all additional costs to be considered.

Fuel – The captain or engineer should be able to provide the fuel consumption per hour at any given speed, so if a yacht owner knows roughly how much he wants the boat to travel, then he can estimate the total fuel consumption and budget the fuel cost. There is also the fuel cost for generators, particularly at anchor. A typical 150-foot motor yacht cruising at 12 knots will consume in the region of 150 U.S. gallons per hour. At today’s fuel prices, that’s going to be close to $500 per hour. 500 hours per year will give us the main engine fuel budget of around $250,000. To this, we must also add the generators’ fuel consumption at anchor plus any additional cost for tenders.

Communications – Everyone onboard, crew and guests, want to remain connected to their social media, streaming services, and email. The technology available in this area moves fast and with 5G coming online, near-shore costs will likely come down. For those who want broadband speed while offshore, costs are high and depend on the upload/download speeds required. Start with an estimate of $4-5,000 per month and work from there. Additional communications costs include satellite TV subscriptions, crew cell phone costs, mail, freight, and more. Get a complete communication cost breakdown.

Maintenance, Consumables, and Other Operating Costs – Having considered crew payroll, marina costs, fuel, and internet, the budget will start to materialize. One must take all other costs into account, such as hull insurance, liability insurance, maintenance and consumables, warehousing, safety and survey costs, upkeep of the navigation outfit, computing support, car rental, and more.   

Looking for more details?

Receive the complete Cost of Yacht Ownership Guide including:

• • Offsetting Expenses With Charter
• • Superyacht Financing
• • Budget Development + More

This should not be considered a financial guide. For a more accurate estimate, contact Clive McCartney .

1 Red Ensign Group Yacht Code Section A 1.2(1) 

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Superyacht tragedy in Italy: ‘Dry drowning’ confirmed as cause of deaths

A recent investigation into last month’s superyacht disaster off the coast of Italy has revealed that four of the seven victims died from “dry drowning,” a rare phenomenon where no water is found in the lungs.

The victims were aboard the 56-meter luxury yacht Bayesian , which sank near Porticello, Sicily, after being struck by a sudden downburst on August 19, 2024.

These new findings have sparked concerns over maritime safety regulations and emergency preparedness on luxury yachts.

Initial autopsy results

The forensic examinations of American lawyer Chris Morvillo, his wife Neda Morvillo, and British couple Jonathan and Anne Elizabeth Judith Bloomer, were conducted at the Forensic Medicine Institute of the Palermo Polyclinic hospital.

According to reports, the victims found an air bubble inside the cabin, which provided temporary relief.

They consumed all available oxygen, leading to a build-up of carbon dioxide, which eventually turned the air toxic. This oxygen deprivation, without any water inhalation, led to “dry drowning.”

British tech tycoon Mike Lynch’s autopsy pending

Autopsies conducted at Palermo’s Forensic Medicine Institute confirmed that American lawyer Chris Morvillo, his wife Neda, and British couple Jonathan and Anne Elizabeth Judith Bloomer perished from oxygen deprivation, not traditional drowning.

Investigators believe the victims found temporary refuge in an air bubble inside the yacht’s cabin, but as oxygen-depleted and carbon dioxide built up, the toxic environment caused “dry drowning.”

Autopsies on British tech tycoon Mike Lynch and his 18-year-old daughter are scheduled for Friday, while the ship’s chef, Recaldo Thomas, remains pending due to difficulties in contacting his family in Antigua.

Toxicology reports for all victims are expected soon, although no alcohol or drug tests have been conducted on the yacht’s crew members.

A criminal investigation is underway against the yacht’s captain, James Cutfield, machine engineer Tim Parker Eaton, and sailor Matthew Griffith, who are all under investigation for “multiple manslaughter” and causing a shipwreck.

Authorities have stressed that being under investigation does not equate to being charged with a crime, and the three men have been allowed to leave Italy following the disaster.

The wreck of the Bayesian remains a priority for recovery efforts due to its potential environmental impact.

The yacht carried 18,000 liters of fuel, posing a significant risk to the waters near Palermo.

Bids for the salvage operation, funded by a company owned by Lynch’s wife, Angela Bacares, have been submitted.

The salvage is also critical for the ongoing investigation, as authorities seek to understand how the yacht sank within just 16 minutes after being hit by violent weather.

What’s next for the investigation?

The tragedy has ignited discussions about maritime safety, especially since none of the victims suffered physical injuries such as broken bones, highlighting possible flaws in emergency response protocols.

The disaster also coincides with Lynch’s ongoing legal battles, including a $4 billion civil lawsuit pursued by Hewlett-Packard in the UK.

Authorities are focusing on both the technical aspects of the yacht’s sinking and the actions—or inactions—of the crew members. With initial autopsies suggesting a rapid and unexpected death by “dry drowning,” the incident raises questions about emergency preparedness on luxury yachts.

As toxicology results are awaited, the legal proceedings and salvage operation will play critical roles in piecing together what happened in those crucial 16 minutes.

The post Superyacht tragedy in Italy: 'Dry drowning' confirmed as cause of deaths appeared first on Invezz

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NFL Billionaire's Superyacht Up For Charter, Here's How Much It'll Cost You

Zinger key points.

• Shahid Khan's ultra-luxurious superyacht Kismet hits the charter market with a weekly price tag of $3 million.
• Experience the pinnacle of opulence with a 122-meter vessel boasting a spa, basketball court, and three pools.

Billionaire NFL owner Shahid Khan has made his superyacht available for charter, offering a unique opportunity for those willing to shell out a cool $3 million a week.

What Happened : The superyacht, christened Kismet , is the property of Khan, the owner of the NFL’s Jacksonville Jaguars . The yacht is all set to make its first appearance at the Monaco Yacht Show later this month. Khan, who boasts a net worth of $13.3 billion as per Forbes, has officially put his new yacht up for charter.

The 122-meter luxury vessel is designed to accommodate up to 12 guests, with a crew of 36 at their disposal. It features a Balinese-inspired spa, a gym, a basketball court, and a pickleball court among other amenities.

According to the report by Business Insider, The yacht also includes three pools, four bars, an outdoor cinema, a DJ booth, and a grand piano.

Khan’s former superyacht, also named Kismet, was purchased by ex-Google CEO Eric Schmidt last year. The new Kismet, constructed by German shipyard Lürssen, is the largest yacht to be showcased at the Monaco Yacht Show.

Also Read: A Retiree Was Planning To Pay $1 Million To Live On A Luxury Cruise Ship — Until He Changed His Mind: ‘Is This Going To Happen In My Lifetime?’

“The yacht has exceeded all expectations of the client for whom we have built his third yacht in total,” said Peter Lürssen , a managing partner at Lürssen.

While the charter fee may appear steep, additional expenses such as provisions, gratuities, and taxes can inflate the total cost of a week aboard the Kismet to a staggering $5.4 million.

Why It Matters : This move by Khan signifies a growing trend among billionaires to monetize their luxury assets. It also highlights the increasing demand for ultra-luxury experiences among the super-rich, who are willing to pay premium prices for exclusive experiences.

The charter of Kismet also underscores the popularity of superyachts as a symbol of opulence and status among the world’s wealthiest individuals.

The fact that Khan’s previous yacht was bought by another high-profile billionaire, Eric Schmidt, further emphasizes this point.

How A Sandwich Craving Birthed A $410M Food Delivery Giant

This content was partially produced with the help of  Benzinga Neuro  and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

© 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.

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Who was on superyacht that sank off Sicily?

Twenty-two people were on board the Bayesian superyacht including British technology tycoon Mike Lynch, his wife and 18-year-old daughter, and Morgan Stanley International boss Jonathan Bloomer.

Friday 23 August 2024 12:34, UK

Details have emerged of the 22 people who were on board the superyacht that sank off the coast of Sicily.

The British-flagged vessel named Bayesian was carrying 12 passengers and 10 members of crew when it got into difficulty in the early hours of Monday.

Seven bodies have now been recovered. The other 15 people on board were rescued.

Here's what we know about those who were on the yacht.

Follow latest updates on the superyacht sinking

British technology tycoon Mike Lynch was among the original six people missing. On Thursday, divers confirmed his body had been recovered.

Raised in Ilford, east London by Irish parents, the 59-year-old made millions with the software company Autonomy he set up in 1996.

He had an estimated net worth of £852m, according to the 2023 Sunday Times Rich List, and is believed to have owned the yacht.

Off the back of Automomy's global success, Mr Lynch was given the roles of science adviser to former prime minister David Cameron and non-executive director of the BBC.

The Cambridge maths and sciences graduate sold the firm for £8.64bn to US giant Hewlett Packard (HP) in 2011.

Dubbed the "British Bill Gates", Mr Lynch has been in the headlines in recent months over a high-profile fraud case related to the sale of Autonomy to HP in 2011.

HP accused him of deliberately overstating the value of the company before it was acquired by the American technology firm. Mr Lynch denied any wrongdoing.

In June, a US jury cleared him of all charges .

Read more: Lynch's co-defendant dies days before yacht disaster

Hannah Lynch

Mr Lynch's 18-year-old daughter Hannah Lynch was also on board. A body believed to be that of the teenager was recovered on Friday from the yacht wreckage.

She had been on holiday with her parents, having secured a place to study English at the University of Oxford, according to reports.

Her former school, Latymer Upper School in Hammersmith, west London, said they were "incredibly shocked by the news that Hannah and her father are among those missing in this tragic accident" when the yacht first sank.

Angela Bacares

Mr Lynch's wife Angela Bacares was on board the yacht and was rescued.

The 57-year-old said she and Mr Lynch were awoken by the boat "tilting" at 4am - half an hour before it sank.

Jonathan Bloomer

Jonathan Bloomer, the chairman of investment bank Morgan Stanley International, was confirmed dead on Thursday.

According to the Financial Times, Mr Bloomer appeared as a defence witness for Mr Lynch during his US criminal trial and the pair were good friends. He also chaired Autonomy's audit committee.

The 70-year-old was the chief executive of UK-Hong Kong insurer Prudential until he was ousted by the board in 2005.

He was also chairman of the insurance provider Hiscox.

Judy Bloomer

Mr Bloomer's wife Judy was on the yacht trip with her husband. Divers confirmed they found her body on Thursday.

Mrs Bloomer was a former board member at The Eve Appeal charity, which focuses on gynaecological cancers.

The charity described her as a "brilliant champion for women's health and medical research... an incredible supporter, committee member, and trustee of our charity for over 20 years".

Read more: 'Alarming' potential cause of superyacht disaster What we know about superyacht that sank

Recaldo Thomas

The yacht's on-board chef Recaldo Thomas died in the sinking.

He was Canadian-Antiguan and part of the crew of the Bayesian.

His body was the first to be recovered from the wreckage.

Chris Morvillo

US lawyer Chris Morvillo was among those divers found dead on Thursday.

The father-of-two worked on Mr Lynch's US fraud trial and was a partner of law firm Clifford Chance's US branch.

Mr Morvillo was assistant attorney for the Southern District of New York between 1995 and 2005 and worked on the terrorist investigation into the 9/11 attacks.

In a recent LinkedIn post, he thanked the legal team that helped win Mr Lynch's trial.

Signing off the post, he said: "And, finally, a huge thank you to my patient and incredible wife, Neda Morvillo, and my two strong, brilliant, and beautiful daughters, Sabrina Morvillo and Sophia Morvillo.

"None of this would have been possible without your love and support. I am so glad to be home. And they all lived happily ever after…."

Neda Morvillo

Mr Morvillo's wife Neda died in the disaster alongside her husband.

The 57-year-old had a luxury jewellery brand, which she ran under her maiden name Neda Nassiri.

Keep up with all the latest news from the UK and around the world by following Sky News

Ayla Ronald

Ayla Ronald, a senior associate at Clifford Chance, survived the yacht disaster, the law firm confirmed.

The 36-year-old worked alongside Chris Morvillo in helping defend Mike Lynch in court.

Clifford Chance said in a statement: "Our utmost priority is providing support to the family as well as our colleague Ayla Ronald, who together with her partner, thankfully survived the incident."

She is originally from Christchurch, New Zealand, but lives in London, her father told local media there.

He said she was left "very shaken" but "she and her partner are alive".

Charlotte Golunski

Charlotte Golunski was on board the yacht and was rescued along with her one-year-old daughter, Sofia.

She spoke to Italian newspaper La Repubblica, confirming she survived the yacht sinking and told how she kept her daughter alive after she was rescued.

"I held her afloat with all my strength, my arms stretched upwards to keep her from drowning," she said.

"It was all dark. In the water I couldn't keep my eyes open. I screamed for help but all I could hear around me was the screams of others."

The 35-year-old is a partner at one of Mr Lynch's firms - Invoke Capital - and has worked there since 2012, according to her LinkedIn profile.

She also worked at Hewlett Packard, which acquired Autonomy in 2011, for 11 months.

Before that, she studied history at the University of Oxford.

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James Emsley

Ms Golunski's partner James Emsley was also rescued from the yacht, according to Sicily's civil protection agency.

The 36-year-old is the father of her one-year-old daughter.

James Cutfield

The 51-year-old captain of the yacht spoke to Italian newspaper La Repubblica after he was rescued.

Mr Cutfield, from New Zealand, was taken for treatment at the Termini Imerese emergency unit, where he told the newspaper: "We didn't see it coming."

Leah Randall

Leah Randall was part of the Bayesian crew and survived the sinking.

She was pictured going ashore in Porticello on Monday morning and is from South Africa.

Her mother Heidi told Sky News said she was "beyond relieved that my daughter's life was spared by the grace of God".

"It doesn't make it any easier living with the heartache of those who have lost their lives [or are] missing. My very deepest condolences to the chef's family as they formed a great friendship," she said.

Katja Chicken

Katja Chicken was another South African member of crew on board the Bayesian and was pictured being brought to safety in Porticello on Monday.

The Italian coastguard confirmed on Tuesday evening that Leo Eppel, a crew member, also survived the yacht sinking.

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A billionaire NFL owner's superyacht is now available for charter. It'll cost you.

NFL owner Shahid Khan's superyacht Kismet is available for charter at $3 million a week.

Kismet, which will debut at the Monaco Yacht Show, features luxury amenities and can host 12 guests.

Added costs for provisions, gratuities, and taxes can raise the weekly charter cost to $5.4 million.

Want to vacation like a billionaire? You can — for $3 million a week.

The superyacht belonging to Shahid Khan, the owner of the NFL's Jacksonville Jaguars who is worth $13.3 billion, according to Forbes, is officially available for charter by brokerage Cecil Wright.

Kismet, Khan's new yacht, will make her debut at the Monaco Yacht Show later this month.

The 122-meter yacht can accommodate up to 12 guests — and a crew of 36 available to serve them — and, like any superyacht worth its weight, has some special amenities .

A "Balinese-inspired" spa features a hammam, sauna, and cryotherapy chamber, as well as a massage table and chromotherapy bathtub offering some sort of color-related treatment. For more active wellness, there's a gym, basketball court, and pickleball court.

There are three pools — two are jacuzzis — spread over six decks, four outdoor showers, four bars, four fireplaces, two fire pits, and one helipad. For your viewing pleasure, there is an outdoor cinema, and for your listening pleasure, a DJ booth and grand piano.

And because billionaires love to play, there is a suite of water toys aboard, including Jet Skis, SeaBobs, e-foils, and WaveRunners.

Khan is a committed superyacht owner. His previous superyacht, also named Kismet, was purchased by former Google CEO Eric Schmidt last year. While its final sales price was not disclosed, it was listed for about $160 million. Renamed Whisper, the yacht was built by the same German shipyard as the new Kismet, Lürssen, and measured 95 meters.

"The yacht has exceeded all expectations of the client for whom we have built his third yacht in total," Peter Lürssen, a managing partner at Lürssen, said in a statement about the newest Kismet.

Kismet is the largest yacht on display at the Monaco Yacht Show, which will feature 120 superyachts . Renaissance, the second largest at 112 meters, charters for the same weekly price of $3 million.

While the nine-figure sales prices of these yachts make their seven-figure charter rates seem like a bargain, renting out a superyacht is not for the faint of wallet. In addition to the charter fee, there are costs associated with provisions which can come to as much as 40% of the fee; gratuities, as much as 20% of the fee; and taxes, also as much as 20%. That means a week aboard the Kismet can actually cost as much as $5.4 million.

Read the original article on Business Insider

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Superyacht owned by billionaire diamond owner spotted in Plymouth Barbican

The Sport, reportedly worth around $20m, arrived in Plymouth early this morning

• 11:24, 9 SEP 2024

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A $20 million superyacht owned by the billionaire head of a diamond company has been spotted in the Barbican , making an impressive sight for locals this morning. The Sport, which had been docked in Falmouth over the weekend, sailed for Plymouth in the early hours of this morning (Monday, September 9).

The 146ft vessel is reportedly owned by Laurence Graff, billionaire and founder of Graff diamond jewelers. He is reported to be worth $4 billion (£3.46 billion) and also owns the $140 million, 233ft superyacht Juice, currently sailing in the Mediterranean, according to ship tracker Marine Traffic.

Previously sailing under the name Space, the Gentleman's Journal reported she featured a hot tub, steam room and numerous sun loungers, with an elegant and opulent design inside its five cabins. Built by Feadship in 2007, Sport and can sleep eight guests with nine crewmembers.

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According to SuperYachtFan the vessel is worth around $20m (£15m) and costs around $2m per year to run. The decadent yacht was made for Mr Graff in 2007, founder of the renowned Graff jewellers and is undoubtedly an impressive sight in the Barbican harbour. However, it pales in comparison to its newer sister vessel, the $140m Juice.

Bigger in stature and grander in luxury, Juice can sleep 12 guests in six cabins, with a large crew of 25 staff. With an 8m swimming pool, sundeck gym and surround-sound cinema, it certainly lives up to its $10m per year running costs.

Jewellery company Graff was founded in London in 1960 and 86-year-old Lawrence Graff is still the business's chairman. Known for creativity and high quality craftsmanship, a Graff ring might go for anything from £900 to £245,000.

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9 superyacht crew members share what it's really like working for a billionaire on board

• Superyachts are luxurious, but working on them isn't.
• Insider polled superyacht crew members to find out what it's really like working for a billionaire on board.
• They said their days are spent fulfilling requests and keeping the yacht in top shape — but it really all depends on the superyacht owner.
• Visit Insider's homepage for more stories .

While working on a superyacht sounds glamorous, in reality it can be anything but.

Insider polled superyacht crew members to get an inside look at life on board. When asked what working for a millionaire or billionaire is really like, they agreed on a few things, like long hours.

Many superyacht  crew members wake up before dawn to start their day, which typically involves a lot of cleaning and catering to the requests of owners and guests.

Read more: The super rich are hoarding cash — instead bartering yachts, $30 million mansions, and caviar to ride out the pandemic

But while some superyacht owners are demanding, others are less so — it really all depends on their personality. Some crew members said that owners and guests are more like regular people than you'd expect.

Here's what life on board looks like, according to nine superyacht crew members.

Note: Insider was able to verify each crew member's identity, but we refrained from publishing their full names to protect their privacy.

Working on a yacht can be lucrative.

Insider previously reported that deckhands earn an average of $3,083 to $3,574 a month, depending on the boat size. Captains reportedly get paid even more — they earn $7,750 to $19,961 a month on average.

Kate Lardy of the Sun Sentinel reported that a captain in Fort Lauderdale once spent a total of $14,255 on day workers, who are hired temporarily for onboard services, during a two-month period.

But it's also tiring and demanding.

One captain who works on a 120-foot boat alluded to tiring conditions. Working for a billionaire is "demanding," he said, with hours that begin very early — before 6 a.m. — and end very late.

Yacht crew members have to meet high expectations.

One electronic technical officer who works on a 223-foot yacht stressed the pressure of delivering top-notch service while remaining level-headed.

Working on a yacht involves "very, very long days with little rest and expectations to perform at the highest levels of service while not losing your cool under pressure," he said.

They have to work hard to keep yachts spotless.

Guests and owners can be messy and dirty — and it's up to the crew to make sure it doesn't look that way. A mate on a 92-foot yacht said he had to wake up before guests or other crew members to get the yacht's exterior ready for the day.

"They expect it to look like no one has touched it," he said. "So any rain or dew, water spots, bird crap, or salt spray has to be continuously cleaned, not to mention having to constantly wipe stainless [steel] and glass when guests move around the boat. They leave smudges and fingerprints everywhere.

"By the time I start at the top of the boat and move around drying the boat, washing windows, and prepping water toys, depending on where the guests are, it's time to clean behind them."

He said he then has to be available for whatever the day brings, whether guests want to take the tender out or play with water toys, the interior crew needs help with service, or any maintenance issues need to be addressed.

There's a lot of cleaning, smiling, and snacking.

Nic, a chief stewardess, shared her typical daily itinerary, which extends from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., with a one-hour break for a power nap.

There's constant snacking, as she doesn't always have time to sit and eat, she said. She's also "always thinking and planning ahead for the next meal or excursion," like what guests "need to take with them and what they need upon return," she said.

"Always thinking of ways to make the day special and 'perfect' (as much as possible)," she said.

She added: "Cleaning, cleaning, cleaning, and lots of smiling. Behind the scenes, a lot of running around and working at high speed, throwing stuff into drawers and sorting it out later when you have time, laughing, and keeping crew spirits high. Never-ending laundry."

Work is easier when the owners are away, which is often.

Billionaire owners actually don't spend a lot of time on their multimillion-dollar yachts. Neither do the guests who charter them.

"Owners or guests are typically not on the boat all that much, so most of the time the crew has the boat to themselves," said Michael, a former yacht captain who worked on yachts ranging from 130 to 170 feet.

"Work is pretty easy and consists of general maintenance and keeping the boat in perfect/ready state for when the owner does show up. If you have a good crew it can be very enjoyable. If you do not, it can be very stressful and miserable."

Everything depends on the owner's personality.

Some crew members get lucky working for generous yacht owners, while others get treated like the help.

"It's hard work and long days when they are on board," said Martin, the captain of a 155-foot yacht. "It really depends on the owner. Some have treated me like family, and some have treated me like a servant."

But sometimes it's not the owner who's difficult.

A chef on a 150-foot motor yacht also said that working for a billionaire could be unpredictable, as every boat and owner is different.

But it's not the owner of the yacht who's always difficult to work for.

"Bear in mind that the captain is every bit as much your boss as the owner is, and sometimes the captain is a bigger pain in the ass than the billionaire owner," she said.

Yacht owners are just your everyday people on vacation — with more money.

According to Mark, the captain of a 114-foot yacht, billionaire owners are just like normal vacationers. Kind of.

"They're just people holidaying, but with more money and toys to fill their days," he said.

They can be more down-to-earth than expected, but their spontaneity can be frustrating.

"It's really nice to find out that some of the wealthiest people you'll work for are actually more down-to-earth and normal like any person you'd meet on the street," a stewardess on a 112-foot sailing yacht said. "The saying is 'money screams, wealth whispers.'"

She added: "A typical day involves turning heads, beds, and laundry for guests and crew, which can be a lot if you're a department of one. Food and beverage service three times a day. A lot of plans and schedules change on the fly depending on the owners and their wants and whims, which can be a bit frustrating."

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Superyacht owned by billionaire diamond owner glides into South West

The Sport, reportedly worth around $20m, arrived in Plymouth early this morning

• 12:55, 9 SEP 2024

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A colossal $20 million superyacht, owned by the billionaire head of a diamond company, has been sighted in the South West. The Sport, which was docked in Falmouth over the weekend, set sail for Plymouth in the early hours of Monday, September 9.

The 146ft vessel is said to be owned by Laurence Graff, the billionaire founder of Graff diamond jewelers. He is reported to have a net worth of $4 billion (£3.46 billion) and also owns the $140 million, 233ft superyacht Juice, which is currently sailing in the Mediterranean, as per Marine Traffic.

Previously known as Space, the Gentleman's Journal reported that she boasts a hot tub, steam room and numerous sun loungers, with an elegant and opulent design inside its five cabins. Built by Feadship in 2007, Sport can accommodate eight guests with nine crew members.

SuperYachtFan estimates the vessel to be worth around $20m (£15m) and costs approximately $2m per year to maintain. The luxurious yacht was custom-made for Mr Graff in 2007, founder of the renowned Graff jewellers and is certainly an impressive sight in the Barbican harbour.

However, it is overshadowed by its newer sister vessel, the $140m Juice.Larger in size and more luxurious, Juice can sleep 12 guests in six cabins, with a substantial crew of 25 staff. With an 8m swimming pool, sundeck gym and surround-sound cinema, it certainly justifies its $10m per year running costs.

Established in London in 1960, Graff is a jewellery company still chaired by its 86 year old founder, Lawrence Graff. Renowned for their creativity and superior craftsmanship, a ring from Graff could fetch anywhere between £900 and a staggering £245,000.

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