5 Most Expensive Superyachts in the World-Ranked

Forget landlubber lairs, these aren't your average yachts. We're diving headfirst into the opulent, outrageous, and undeniably eye-watering world of the 10 most expensive superyachts ever built.

Think private submarines, helipads for your personal chopper, and enough diamonds to blind Poseidon himself. These behemoths of the sea redefine luxury, pushing the boundaries of both naval engineering and your wildest spending sprees. As megayacht mogul David McClain aptly said: "If you have to ask the price, you can't afford it."

So, whether you're a curious landlubber or a yachting enthusiast with champagne dreams, strap yourselves in. We're about to embark on a high-seas adventure where the price tag is as mind-blowing as the amenities.

Key Takeaways

• Opulent Design and Unmatched Luxury: These yachts are not just big; they're architectural masterpieces, adorned with features that rival the grandest of palaces.
• Exclusive Ownership: Being in the company of these yachts is like entering an exclusive club, where only a select few can claim membership.
• Technological Wonders: From advanced navigation systems to state-of-the-art security, these yachts are equipped with technology that's as impressive as their price tags.
• A Symbol of Status: Owning one of these yachts isn't just about enjoying the high seas; it's a statement, a symbol of reaching the pinnacle of success and luxury.

So, let’s embark on this exclusive tour, where we unveil the crème de la crème of the yacht world, and get a glimpse of what it means to sail in the lap of luxury.

Criteria for Ranking

When it comes to ranking these titans of the sea, we're looking beyond just the price tag. Here's what sets these aquatic marvels apart:

• Price Tag: The most obvious metric. It's not just about how much they cost, but also the value they hold over time. These figures are staggering, often running into hundreds of millions, if not billions.
• Amenities: What's luxury without comfort? We're talking movie theaters, helipads, underwater lounges, infinity pools, and more. The more extravagant the amenities, the higher the rank.
• Size Matters: Here, size is more than just length; it's about the volume, the number of decks, and the space offered. Bigger often means more facilities and, consequently, more luxury.
• Design and Aesthetics: A yacht’s design is a statement of its owner’s taste and the architect’s vision. We're looking at the blend of aesthetics, functionality, and innovation in design.
• Exclusivity: These yachts are not just about lavish features; it’s also about how exclusive they are. Limited access, unique features, and ownership by world-renowned personalities add to the yacht's allure.
• Technological Innovation: From eco-friendly propulsion systems to state-of-the-art security, the level of technology incorporated into these yachts plays a key role in their ranking.
• Customization: Personalization is a key aspect of luxury. Custom-made interiors, bespoke artworks, and tailor-made finishes are what make these yachts truly one-of-a-kind.
• Historical and Cultural Significance: Sometimes, a yacht's value is enhanced by its history or the cultural significance attached to it, like being featured in iconic movies or owned by historical figures.

These factors combine to create a floating masterpiece that is not just a mode of transport but a symbol of ultimate luxury and power. Each yacht in our list is a marvel in its own right, embodying the pinnacle of opulence, innovation, and exclusivity.

Superyacht #1: History Supreme Yacht

The History Supreme yacht, often touted as the most expensive yacht ever built, is an epitome of luxury and extravagance. With an estimated value of $4.8 billion, it stands out as a marvel in the world of yachting. This gold-plated superyacht was reportedly purchased by an anonymous Malaysian businessman and took over three years to complete.

Overview

• Length: 30.48 meters (100 feet)
• Owner: Reported to be Malaysian businessman Robert Kuok
• Designer: Stuart Hughes

Key Features

• Construction Materials: The yacht is notably constructed with about 100,000 kg of gold and platinum, covering various parts like the hull, deck, dining area, and anchor.
• Interior Highlights: Features an opulent interior with platinum accents. The wall elements include meteoric stone and genuine T-Rex dinosaur bones.
• Exclusive Additions: Boasts a luxury liquor bottle with an 18.5-carat diamond and a custom iPhone encrusted with 500 diamonds.

Controversies and Debate

• Despite its reported grandeur, the yacht's existence is shrouded in skepticism, with some questioning its authenticity and real-world presence.
• Environmental concerns have been raised about the sustainability of using such large quantities of precious metals.
• Represents a significant disparity in wealth, highlighting the exclusive nature of such luxury possessions.

Cultural Impact

• The History Supreme stands as a symbol of supreme luxury in the yachting world, continuing to captivate the imagination and interest of luxury enthusiasts and yacht aficionados globally.

This yacht, with its extraordinary price tag and unique features, exemplifies the pinnacle of luxury in the world of yachting. However, it remains a subject of intrigue and speculation, as much of its existence and details are shrouded in mystery and controversy. Despite this, it continues to be a significant point of discussion in the realm of ultra-luxurious vessels​.

Superyacht #2: Eclipse Yacht

Eclipse yacht, known for its grandeur and luxury, is the second-largest superyacht in the world. Owned by Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich, this vessel represents the pinnacle of yachting luxury and engineering.

• Size and Construction: Eclipse measures an impressive 162.5 meters in length. Built by Blohm+Voss, a renowned German shipyard, the yacht was completed at the end of 2010. Its construction was shrouded in secrecy, adding to its allure and mystique.
• Design: The yacht's interiors and exteriors were designed by Terence Disdale, a celebrated London-based design team known for their elegant and sophisticated approach to yacht design.
• Accommodation: Eclipse can comfortably accommodate 36 guests in its 18 cabins, catering to their every need with a staggering crew of 70 members.
• Unique Features: Among its array of luxurious amenities, the yacht boasts a three-man leisure submarine, two swimming pools (one of which can be converted into a dance floor), an exterior fireplace, six tenders, and accommodations for three helicopters. The 16-meter swimming pool has an adjustable depth feature, further emphasizing the yacht’s focus on luxury and versatility.
• Advanced Technology: Notably, the yacht is equipped with a missile detection system and an alleged anti-paparazzi laser system designed to protect the privacy of its occupants by disabling digital cameras with a beam of light.
• Value and Exclusivity: With a value estimated at $1.5 billion, Eclipse stands as a testament to luxury and exclusivity in the superyacht world. It’s not just a mode of transportation but a symbol of opulence and a feat of modern engineering.
• Environmental Considerations: Equipped with a hybrid propulsion system, the yacht also reflects a nod towards more efficient and environmentally friendly technology.

Eclipse remains a remarkable example of the blend of luxury, functionality, and advanced safety measures, symbolizing the zenith of private yachting. Its combination of size, design, and advanced features make it a true masterpiece in the world of luxury yachts.

Superyacht #3: Azzam Yacht

The Azzam yacht, recognized as the world's longest yacht, is an epitome of maritime excellence and luxury. With a length of 180 meters (590 feet), Azzam surpasses others not only in size but also in its blend of speed, elegance, and technological prowess.

• Builder and Design: Azzam was built by the prestigious Lürssen Yachts, a German shipyard known for its high-quality craftsmanship in luxury yacht building. The yacht's exterior is the creation of Nauta Design, an Italian yacht design firm known for their sleek and modern designs, while the interior was designed by French designer Christophe Leoni, who crafted an opulent Empire-style ambiance.
• Features: This superyacht is equipped with impressive capabilities and amenities. It can reach speeds of up to 30 knots, thanks to its powerful combination of two diesel and two gas turbine engines, producing a total of approximately 47,000 horsepower. The yacht's draft is relatively shallow for its size, enhancing its versatility in navigating different waters.
• Safety and Security: Azzam is not just about luxury, but also security. It features a bullet-proof master suite and a sophisticated missile defense system, ensuring the safety and privacy of its occupants.
• Accommodation: The yacht can accommodate 36 guests and has provisions for a crew of 60. Details about the interior are limited, but it's known to feature a 95-foot long lounge area, free of support pillars, that showcases a modern design approach.
• Ownership: Initially owned by Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the late president of the United Arab Emirates, the current ownership of Azzam, after his death in 2022, is not publicly confirmed. However, it is believed to be in possession of his successor, Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the current Emir and President of the UAE.
• Location and Availability: Azzam is usually docked at her home port in Khalifa Port, Abu Dhabi. This magnificent yacht is not available for charter and is a private asset reflecting unparalleled opulence and grandeur.

With its remarkable length, advanced engineering, luxurious design, and high-speed capabilities, Azzam stands as a testament to the heights of luxury and innovation achievable in modern yacht construction​.

Superyacht #4: Dilbar Yacht

The Dilbar yacht, known for its extraordinary size and luxury, was launched in 2016. It is a 157-meter (512 ft) superyacht, built by the renowned German shipyard Lurssen. Dilbar is distinguished by its title as the world’s largest yacht by interior volume, which is larger than the Azzam yacht in terms of overall volume and living space.

• Ownership: The yacht was owned by Russian billionaire Alisher Usmanov, an Uzbek-born businessman with diverse interests in various sectors. The yacht is legally owned by Usmanov’s sister, Gulbahor Ismailova, as part of an ownership structure designed to avoid sanctions. However, in March 2022, the yacht was seized by German authorities as part of sanctions against Russia.
• Design and Construction: The interior of Dilbar was designed by Andrew Winch, an English yacht designer, and the exterior was handled by Espen Øino International. The yacht features a steel hull and an aluminum superstructure and was one of the most challenging yachts to build due to its size and custom elements.
• Features and Amenities: Dilbar boasts a gross tonnage of 15,917 and a beam of just over 77 feet. The yacht includes a total of 3,800 square meters of living space for 24 guests and room for an 80-person crew. Among its numerous luxury amenities, Dilbar has a giant swimming pool, a full garden, two helipads, a beach deck, a floating observation bay, and a custom $20 million helicopter tender.
• Performance: The yacht can reach a top speed of 22.5 knots and a cruising speed of about 16 knots. It is powered by an electric-diesel hybrid power source that provides 30,000 KW of power.
• Cost and Value: The cost of the Dilbar yacht is estimated to be between $800 million and $1 billion, making it one of the most expensive yachts ever built. The annual running costs are estimated to be as high as $50 million to $80 million.
• Current Status: Since its seizure, the yacht has been in the custody of the German government, and it is unclear what the future holds for this vessel.

Dilbar represents not just a significant investment in luxury yachting but also the complexities involved in yacht ownership and international politics. Despite its seizure, it remains an iconic symbol of wealth and a testament to advanced yacht engineering and design.

Superyacht #5: Serene Yacht

The Serene yacht, measuring 133.9 meters (439 feet) in length, is a remarkable example of modern yachting luxury and technological advancement. Launched in 2011 by Fincantieri Yachts, Serene is notable for its size, sophisticated design, and array of luxurious amenities.

• Design and Build: The yacht was developed from a groundbreaking concept by Espen Oeino, with interiors designed by Pascale Reymond from Reymond Langton Design. Its design features seven decks, a hangar, and two helicopter landing pads.
• Interior Luxury: The interior, crafted by Raymond Langton Design, includes an internal seawater pool, which doubles as a float-in docking space for tenders, a spa with a sauna, a snow room, and even a climbing wall. It can comfortably accommodate 24 guests in its 12 cabins, with additional space for a crew of 52.
• Unique Amenities: The yacht houses a GSE Trieste VAS 525/60 submarine, capable of carrying up to 5 persons to a maximum depth of 160 meters for up to 8 hours. It also includes a Eurocopter EC-145, enhancing its exclusivity and luxury appeal.
• Performance: Powered by 8 MTU diesel marine engines, Serene can reach a maximum speed of 18 knots, with a comfortable cruising speed of 14 knots, and has a range of over 5,000 nautical miles.
• Ownership and Historical Significance

• Ownership and Historical Significance: Initially owned by Russian businessman Yuri Shefler, the Serene was sold in 2015 for a staggering EUR 350 million to the Royal Family of Saudi Arabia. It is currently believed to be owned by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The yacht has been a notable figure in the luxury yachting world, both for its grandeur and the high-profile nature of its ownership.
• Safety and Technology: Built to meet SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) regulations and supervised by the Lloyd’s Register of Shipping, Serene represents a fusion of safety, luxury, and cutting-edge technology. It was registered under the Passenger Yacht Code (PYC) at the time of its construction.
• Notable Incidents: Despite its luxury, the Serene faced a challenging moment in August 2017 when it ran aground in the Red Sea near Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt. This incident caused significant structural damage to the yacht.
• Artistic Value: Adding to its unique characteristics, the yacht reportedly houses Leonardo Da Vinci’s painting "Salvator Mundi," acquired by MBS for US$ 400 million, making it a moving gallery of one of the most expensive artworks in the world.

The world of superyachts is not just a display of wealth and luxury, but a celebration of intricate craftsmanship and bespoke design. These floating palaces are the result of the combined efforts of world-renowned designers and esteemed shipbuilders.

• Masterful Designers: Each superyacht is a masterpiece, thanks to the vision of designers like Espen Øino, Andrew Winch, and Raymond Langton. These artists don't just design yachts; they create floating dreams, balancing aesthetics with functionality.
• Bespoke Interiors: The interiors of these yachts are nothing short of a marvel. From opulent master suites to stunningly equipped kitchens and luxurious living spaces, every detail is tailored to the owner's taste. For instance, the interior of the Serene yacht by Reymond Langton Design includes unique features like a seawater pool and a snow room.
• Custom-Built by Esteemed Shipyards: Esteemed shipyards like Lürssen Yachts and Fincantieri are behind the construction of these grand vessels. They bring the designers' visions to life, ensuring that each yacht is a hallmark of quality and grandeur.
• Advanced Technology: Beyond aesthetics, these yachts incorporate cutting-edge technology for navigation, safety, and environmental sustainability. They're not just built to sail; they're engineered to be efficient, safe, and eco-friendly.
• Artistic Elements: Some yachts house extraordinary elements like original artworks. For instance, the Serene yacht is said to host Leonardo Da Vinci’s Salvator Mundi, merging nautical engineering with fine art.

The creation of a superyacht is an intricate dance of art and engineering, where every stitch in the upholstery and every line of the hull is a testament to the art of craftsmanship. The shipbuilders and designers of these yachts aren't just creating a means of sea travel; they're crafting a legacy that sails across the oceans.

Exclusivity of Ownership

Owning a superyacht is a significant status symbol, reflecting a level of wealth and exclusivity accessible to only a tiny fraction of the world's population. These vessels are much more than mere luxury items; they represent a pinnacle of personal achievement and status.

• Status Symbol: Superyachts are associated with immense wealth and prestige. They are often custom-designed, showcasing the owner's personal taste and wealth.
• Famous Owners: High-profile individuals such as Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich, owner of the Eclipse, and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia, purported owner of the Serene, are among those who own these opulent vessels.
• Celebrity Associations: Superyachts often host celebrities and are seen in exclusive locations worldwide. They serve as venues for lavish parties and private events, adding to their allure and exclusivity.
• Privacy and Exclusivity: These yachts offer a level of privacy that is unmatched, making them attractive for high-profile owners who value discretion and security.

Owning a superyacht is therefore not just about luxury, but also about the exclusivity and status it confers to its owner.

Conclusion

The world of superyachts is a fascinating intersection of luxury, technology, and exclusivity. These magnificent vessels are not just modes of sea travel; they are floating emblems of opulence, status, and engineering marvels. The top ten most expensive superyachts, such as History Supreme, Eclipse, Azzam, Dilbar, and Serene, offer a glimpse into an elite world where every detail is meticulously crafted to reflect the pinnacle of luxury and personal achievement.

Owning a superyacht is a privilege reserved for the ultra-wealthy, a symbol of their success, and a testament to their standing in society. These yachts are much more than extravagant purchases; they are the culmination of world-class craftsmanship, cutting-edge technology, and bespoke artistry, representing the zenith of personal luxury and exclusivity. The superyacht industry continues to push the boundaries of innovation and luxury, ensuring that these vessels remain the ultimate symbol of prestige and sophistication on the high seas.