A privileged yard, one of the leading builders of custom superyachts, Lürssen has constructed 5 out of 10 world’s largest vessels. The yard also holds all the records for the largest yachts in terms of LOA with the 180.6-metre Azzam, and in terms of interior volume with the 156-metre Dilbar.
With a few attempts to overdo the giant manufacturer in recent years (for instance, Project REV will exceed Azzam by 1.6 metres once launched), its domination in the field doesn’t seem to be hindered. Today, Yacht Harbour recalls the largest 10 mammoth vessels presented by the German yard so far.
#10. Octopus
LOA: 126.2m
Year: 2003
Until the explorer superyacht REV launches in 2020, Octopus holds the title of the largest expedition yacht in the world, not surpassed in 16 years from her launch. She had belonged to Microsoft cofounder Paul Allen, who had also owned NBA’s Portland Trail Blazers and NFL’s Seattle Seahawks teams till he passed away in late 2018. His fortune was estimated at $20,3 billion by Forbes.
Octopus is capable to accommodate 26 guests in total, with up to 57 crew members. Amenities found on-board include a swimming pool and a music studio as well as a courtyard-like set up on the third deck of Octopus occupied by guest space.
She has two helicopter pads and an internal dock that extends through the hull, holding two submarines and a 18-metre tender. The yacht has been involved in multiple exploration discoveries, including a Japanese battleship and the bell from HMS Hood, a World War II battlecruiser.
Despite her expedition nature, the yacht has been much favoured by the world’s top-rate celebrities, with Mick Jagger recording an album in on-board studio in 2011 and Usher, U2 and Johnny Cash listed among other performers.
#9. Crescent
LOA: 135m
Year: 2018
Built as project Thunder, motor yacht Crescent features exteriors by Espen Oeino and interiors by Zuretti Interior Design. She encompasses a total volume of 9,194 GT with a beam of 22 metres.
One of the most significant features of Crescent is her huge glared atrium with three-deck-high windows, allowing for plenty of natural light to penetrate the elegant interiors. In addition, the yacht has been constructed with two helicopter pads instead of one, including the retractable helicopter hangar on the upper deck.
Crescent represents a full-displacement steel hull and aluminium superstructure yacht, built to Lloyds Register classifications. She was fitted with zero speed stabilisers for increased comfort on board, while she is also air-conditioned.
The yacht offers accommodations for 18 guests across nine staterooms. Little is known about the interior, though if it lives up to Crescent’s brash exterior, the complete yacht promises to be an entirely groundbreaking design.
#8. Flying Fox
LOA: 136.0m
Year: 2019
Stretching across a beam of 20.5-meters, the yacht with estimated 9,100 GT of interior volume currently ranks as the 14th largest yacht in the world. Her dove grey sleek hull lines were conceived by Espen Oeino, complemented with interiors by UK designer Mark Berryman. The latter reportedly focus on neutral tones and a calm appearance.
Recently made available for charter, Flying Fox boasts two helipads, large sea terraces, wide swim platforms for watersports, a panoramic exterior saloon on the roof deck and a generous 12-metre swimming pool crossways the main deck, the first one for a superyacht of that size. She can accommodate up to 22 guests across 11 staterooms, along with a crew of 54.
Meanwhile, the vessel’s main interior area, the large two-floor saloon, lies on the bridge deck, fitted with wood fireplace, dining table for 22 guests and a cinema. Flying Fox is also trademarked with a unique in its size 400 square-metre two-floor spa, offering guests a hammam, sauna, massage area, gym and cryo sauna. On the lower deck, the spa area is connected to the sea lounge which comes with a large Jacuzzi, and access to the sea through the dive centre and sea platforms.
Speedwise, the vessel features a cruising speed of 15 knots.
#7. Rising Sun
LOA: 138m
Year: 2004
Rising Sun was built by Lürssen in 2004, with the design of Jon Bannenberg. David Geffen, a billionaire with a net worth of $6 billion, had co-owned Rising Sun along with Larry Ellison from 2004, before he bought it in 2010. Being one of the largest yachts in the world, it costed $200,000,000 to build Rising Sun, according to some reports.
With exterior design by Jon Bannenberg, Rising Sun is defined by banks of windows across the superstructure. The yacht takes advatage of 8,000 square metres of living space in 82 rooms. It can accommodate 18 guests in nine cabins, with the capacity to carry up to 46 crew. The interior by Laura Seccombe includes a gym, cinema, and wine cellar. One of the most destinctive hallmarks of the yacht, the rear cockpit deck, was designed as a basketball court.
#6. Al Salamah
LOA: 139.3m
Year: 1999
At the time of her launch in 1999, Al Salamah was not only the largest yacht by Lürssen, but also the third largest vessel in the world. Previously existing under the codename Mipos (Mission Possible), Al Salamah's owner was Prince Sultan bin Abdul Aziz of Saudi Arabia (Crown Prince). Since then, rumours have been circulating that the yacht had been offered for sale in 2012 at nearly $300,000,000, but that remained unconfirmed.
Al Salamah was designed by Terence Disdale. The large imposing exterior is primarily protected space, with an upper deck exposed to the elements. Al Salamah has staterooms for 40 guests, including two owner suites, 11 VIP staterooms, and eight twin cabins. The yacht can carry up to 94 crew and has a top speed of 21 knots. Al Salamah underwent a refit by Lürssen in 2007.
#5. Redwood
LOA: 142m
Year: 2020
The 142-metre superyacht Redwood has been recently moved into final construction stage at Lürssen’ Vegesack facility in Bremen, with her delivery scheduled to 2020.
This vessel has already become history as the largest yacht ever sold and built by a brokerage company, Moran Yacht & Ship. Designed by the team at Nuvolari & Lenard, Project Redwood is being built to a Moran Yacht & Ship specification, overseeing her construction.
The sale of Project Redwood was announced In September 2015, as a 139-metre project. She was later extended at 3 metres, boasting six decks, with sports and diving centre, a generous partially-covered swimming pool, two helipads and a whole bunch of large tenders (15 metres).
Venive-based design studio Nuvolari & Lenard created the yacht’s interior design, which will be able to accommodate up to 36 guests in 20 staterooms. Redwood will also be able for long-range and efficient global explorations.
#4. A+
LOA: 147.3m
Year: 2012
Formerly known as Topaz, the yacht has been recently renamed A+, with no record of changing owners or being earlier listed for sale, though.
Built in 2012, A+ belongs on the list of the largest vessels owned by sports teams owners. According to media, she is owned by Sheikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, with an estimated personal net worth of $4.9 billion. Sheikh Mansour also owns ADUG investment company that takes the ownership of Manchester City F.C.
With her gross tonnage of 12,532 GT, A+ is also one of the world’s largest superyachts in terms of volume. Topaz features sleek exteriors by Tim Heywood and the interiors conceived by UK-based studio Terence Disdale Design.
The eight-deck vessel has been built to steel displacement hull and aluminium superstructure. All the decks are connected with a lift, giving access provides access to two helipads and swimming platforms. A+ is also highlighted with a fully equipped gym, two Jacuzzi, movie theatre and a conference room. Heк large tender garage offers space for a wide choice of water toys, including jet skis, inflatable boats, catamaran and a mini-submarine.
The yacht can accommodate up to 62 guests within 26 cabins on-board, along with 79 crew members. Powered by specially designed Pielstick diesel engines of 7,990 HP each, A+ achieves her maximum speed at 25.5 knots and cruises at 22.9 knots. At anchor, particularly in rough water, her stabilisers ensure passengers’ comfort on-board.
#3. Al Said
LOA: 155m
Year: 2008
Originally referred to as Project Sunflower, steel and aluminium yacht Al Saïd gained her official name following her launch in 2008. Her exterior design by Espen Oeino resembles a classic cruise liner in many ways, complete with the twin exhaust stacks in the centre of the superstructure.
Owned by the Sultan Qaboos Al Said of Oman, fhe yacht flies the Oman flag. She can house a crew of 150 and, according to some sources, 65 guests. Lürssen reports, Al Saïd has a top speed of 22 knots. The London-based Redman Whiteley Dixon studio designed her interiors, which include a concert hall that can hold a 50-person orchestra.
Within her interior volume of 15,850 tones, Al Said features a cinema room for 50 people, as well as plenty of entertaining space dispatched amongst 6 decks, and a helipad.
#2. Dilbar
LOA: 156m
Year: 2016
Known during her highly secretive build as Project Omar, the 156-meter yacht was launched at Lürssen facility in 2015. She became Russian billionaire Alisher Usmanov's third yacht and the third yacht to bear the same name Dilbar, after the businessman’s mother.
With her gross tonnage of 15,917 tons, she has officially become the world's largest yacht by volume. Dilbar boasts exterior design by Espen Oeino and interior styling by Andrew Winch. Dilbar features a combined 3,800 square meters of living space, being able to host up to 40 guests and a crew of 80.
Following her delivery in June 2016, Lürssen also claimed two other records for Dilbar — her 180 cubic metre on-board swimming pool is believed to be the largest on any yacht, while the 30,000 kw diesel electric power plant is thought to be the most powerful ever fitted to a superyacht, giving her a cruising speed of 22.5 knots.
Lürssen added that the world’s largest motor yacht was one of the most complex and challenging yachts ever built, because of its dimensions and technology. Despite Dilbar’s volume, the designers did a masterful job making the yacht look relatively svelte, with no obvious bulges along the hull.
#1. Azzam
LOA: 180.6m
Year: 2013
Designed by Nauta and launched in 2013, Azzam is the flagship of the German builder’s fleet. Powered by twin diesel engines and two gas turbines, Azzam blasts off at 30 knots, which is extremely impressive for a yacht of her size. She is able to operate at high speed even in shallow waters.
Very little information is known on the vessel after her 2013 launch, because of the penchant for privacy of her owner, who is according to media sources Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed al-Nayan, President of the United Arab Emirates and Emir of Abu Dhabi.
Nauta Design’s exterior features a long, sleek forward area, with well-proportioned tiers moving up to the skydeck. Lürssen describes the interior by Christophe Leoni as ‘sophisticated, with luxurious decor inspired by the Empire style of the early 19th century’.
Antonini Navi introduces the Sport Utility Yacht – SUY 135, a groundbreaking vessel conceived by Aldo Manna, Partner and Sales Director, along with designer Fulvio De Simoni. Moravia Yachts has been appointed as Central Agency. Hull number #1 is already in construction with delivery slated for 2026.As part of Antonini Navi's broader vision, the SUY 135 is a precursor to the SUY 190 and SUY 108, forming a comprehensive lineup of versatile superyachts designed to navigate deep waters while embracing luxury and environmental harmony.Currently under construction at the shipyard in Italy, the SUY 135 spans 44 meters in length and boasts approximately 480GT. This steel displacement motor yacht marks the debut of Antonini Navi's Sports Utility Yachts – SUY series.Designed by Fulvio de Simoni with naval architecture by Studio Arrabito, the SUY 135 seamlessly blends superyacht elegance with unparalleled world-cruising capabilities."The SUY offers limitless experiences, akin to an SUV in the automotive realm," remarks Aldo Manna. "It's designed to enable owners and guests to fully immerse themselves in yachting, equipped with toys, amenities, and tenders for a myriad of recreational activities."Alessandro Diomedi of Moravia Yachting expresses pride in representing Antonini Navi's SUY series, highlighting its innovation and voluminous capacity for water toys while prioritizing owner privacy and lifestyle.The SUY 135's flexible design allows for extensive internal and external customization, featuring a main and upper deck linked by a raised deck with five guest cabins. The owner's suite, spanning 56 square meters, resides on the main deck, offering luxurious seclusion.External spaces include a 40-square-meter veranda for al fresco dining and a 35-square-meter beach club with a transom hot tub. The sun deck boasts panoramic views, a second hot tub, and ample relaxation areas.Equipped with a transversal tender garage and achieving a range of 4,000 nautical miles at 10 knots cruising speed, the SUY 135 sets new standards in environmental consciousness.The Pertusola shipyard in the Gulf of La Spezia was bought by Walter Antonini in 1977. Since then, Antonini Navi has been a family-held leader in superyacht custom build and refitting.Credits: Antonini Navi
April 18, 2024
In a remarkable display of innovation and engineering prowess, eD-TEC's groundbreaking eD 32 c-Ultra high-performance all-electric RIB has successfully completed its first sea trials after just nine months of intensive development. These trials, conducted in the Adriatic Sea near Punat, Croatia, mark a significant milestone in the advancement of electric boating technology.At the heart of the eD 32 c-Ultra lies eD-TEC's revolutionary Technology Stack, seamlessly integrated with twin plug-and-play eD-QDrive 200kW propulsion units, driving surface-piercing propellers. With a net battery capacity of 105kWh, this blank-sheet design sets new standards in the industry, delivering exceptional performance, stability, and manoeuvrability.During the trials, dubbed as an engineering feat, the eD 32 c-Ultra demonstrated remarkable capabilities, boasting a 25-knot cruise and an impressive range of over 40 nautical miles. These results underscore the vessel's potential to revolutionize the marine industry, offering an environmentally friendly alternative without compromising on performance.Michael Jost, founder of eD-TEC, expressed optimism about the vessel's future, stating, "We are thrilled with the initial performance of the eD 32 c-Ultra during its maiden sea trials. Preliminary estimates indicate a range of 20 to 40 nautical miles and a current cruising speed of 25 knots, with anticipated improvements to reach approximately 30 knots."Furthermore, the trials provided valuable insights into optimizing the vessel's efficiency and performance. Adaptive steering, inspired by automotive systems, and innovative hydrodynamic design elements were highlighted as areas for refinement to enhance stability and reduce power consumption.Looking ahead, eD-TEC remains committed to pushing the boundaries of electric boating technology. Plans for a two-week Booster Sprint, focused on software optimization and charging efficiency, aim to further enhance the vessel's capabilities.Philipp Lehr and Marc Jost, project leads for the eD 32 c-Ultra, expressed satisfaction with the trials, emphasizing the vessel's reliability and performance. "After approximately 500 kWh, we have encountered no system disruptions thus far, and all temperatures have remained within optimal ranges," they reported.As the eD 32 c-Ultra continues its journey towards commercialization, eD-TEC remains dedicated to pioneering sustainable solutions for the marine industry. With ambitious plans for future developments, including solar-centric off-grid solutions, the company is poised to revolutionize the concept of luxury shoreside living and on-water escapes.Indeed, the eD 32 c-Ultra represents not just a vessel but the beginning of a new era in electric boating, offering a glimpse into the future of sustainable marine transportation.Credits: eD-TEC
April 18, 2024
Feadship's highly anticipated Project 1012 has emerged from the construction shed at the Makkum facility, marking a significant milestone as the yacht prepares for sea trials ahead of its delivery. Notably, Project 1012 is the first Feadship vessel to boast full Hybrid Electric Class notation.Designed by Sinot and the owner's design office, with naval architecture by Feadship De Voogt Naval Architects, Project 1012 was commissioned by a seasoned Feadship owner with a wealth of yachting experience. The yacht's exterior styling reflects meticulous design with precise input from the owner, while the interior promises to be a beautifully crafted and meticulously detailed family retreat.Measuring an impressive 91.80 meters, Project 1012 boasts crisply chamfered exterior contours complemented by a traditional flared bow, creating a modern-classic ambiance. Despite its generous volume, the interior is thoughtfully designed to provide intimate spaces for family gatherings, featuring natural materials and finishes throughout.One of the owner's key desires was to enhance the yacht's beach club, which now spans a quarter of the lower deck's total length. With a vast, fixed stern platform and two fold-down platforms, the beach club offers an expansive 165 square meters of water-level lounging space. Additionally, a side-loading garage between the engine room and beach club can accommodate two 10-meter tenders, a ski boat, and various water toys.The main deck aft boasts a large pool and open-air lounge, while comfortable guest suites and staff cabins adorn the main deck forward. The upper decks house the master stateroom, family lounge, and wellness area, while the sundeck offers a prime observation point with forward-facing seating and sun loungers.Project 1012's propulsion system integrates cutting-edge Feadship technology, featuring two main engines, shaft-driven fixed pitch propellers, and PTO/PTI electric motors coupled with 1MW of Li-ion batteries. This innovative setup allows for both conventional diesel propulsion and electric motor operation, providing enhanced efficiency and reduced environmental impact.Albert Abma, Feadship project manager, expresses his satisfaction with the collaboration, stating, "Working with the experienced owner, designers, and owners team has been a professional pleasure. Gathering the operational experience of the owners team with the yard’s building experience has resulted in this modern-classic, state-of-art and full custom new Feadship."Based in the Netherlands and with roots dating back to 1849, Feadship was formed as a group in 1949 as a marketing partnership between six Dutch shipyards, de Vries Lentch, Van de Stadt, Witsen & Vis, Akerboom, De Vries Scheepsbouw and Van Lent Shipyard, and De Voogt Naval Architects. Feadship is well-known as one of the Netherlands’ most elite yacht builders and delivers superyachts from 50–100+ meters in length.Credits: Feadship
April 18, 2024
Sanlorenzo is set to grace the British Motor Yacht Show for the first time from May 16th to 19th, 2024. Attendees of the event, hosted at Swanwick Marina in Southampton, will have the exclusive opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of Sanlorenzo. From its cutting-edge design to its unparalleled craftsmanship and extensive customization options, visitors can explore the elegance and sophistication synonymous with the brand.SL90ASanlorenzo Yachts UK will showcase the magnificent Sanlorenzo SL90A, a 28-meter vessel that will also be the largest yacht on display at the four-day show. Nick Hatfield, Sales Manager at Sanlorenzo Yachts UK, expressed excitement about the debut, stating, "We’re delighted to be bringing one of our stunning Sanlorenzo yachts to the British Motor Yacht Show for the first time. It’s a fantastic opportunity to experience the true meaning of customization and understand Sanlorenzo’s ethos of innovative design, tailored to the requirements and desires of each individual owner."Designed by Bernardo Zuccon, the SL90A boasts an elegant and modern interior, featuring a harmonious blend of different wood, marble, and fabric textures. The innovative Asymmetric design, highlighted by the A in SL90A, elevates the yacht's interior volume, enhancing the main deck saloon's connection with the sea through expansive floor-to-ceiling windows.BG42Accommodating up to eight guests in four well-appointed staterooms, each with its own en-suite bathroom, the SL90A offers comfort and style ideal for family gatherings or entertaining friends.Crafted by Sanlorenzo Yacht at its Ameglia base in Italy, this class-leading yacht offers a timeless aesthetic while pushing the boundaries of conventional design.In addition to the SL90A, Sanlorenzo Yachts UK will also present the BG42 from Bluegame, a brand under the Sanlorenzo umbrella. Sanlorenzo was founded in 1958 in Viareggio by yacht builder Gionvanni Jannetti. In 2005, Massimo Perrotti became the majority shareholder in the shipyard. Sanlorenzo builds yachts ranging from 28.60 to 73 meters in length. Credits: maa.agency; Yacht Harbour archive
April 17, 2024
Lady A, the distinguished 55.2-meter motor yacht crafted by Nishii Zosen-Sterling, has found a new owner after just a year on the market. Simon Goldsworthy of Edmiston facilitated the sale, representing both the seller and the buyer in this transaction.Originally christened Southern Cross III, Lady A boasts a timeless design conceived by the renowned Jon Bannenberg and was meticulously constructed by Japanese shipyard Nishii Zosen-Sterling in 1986. Undergoing a significant transformation in 2017, the vessel underwent extensive refurbishments valued at over €12 million, including a complete interior overhaul, an expansion of the upper deck, and the installation of state-of-the-art Quantum zero-speed stabilizers.Lady A's upper aft deck has been elegantly extended to serve as the primary sunbathing area, featuring plush sofas, inviting armchairs, and a spacious alfresco dining spot accommodating up to 14 guests. Awnings can be swiftly erected by the crew to provide shelter from the sun.The interior layout is equally captivating, with the main lounge situated on the upper level, offering a relaxed ambiance with sliding glass doors, a raised reading nook, and a well-appointed bar. The vessel's unique design includes a split-level observation lounge boasting breathtaking 180-degree vistas.Ample accommodation is provided for up to 12 guests across six cabins, including a lavish owner's suite with a private office, three double guest cabins, a VIP guest cabin, and a twin guest cabin. The interior, masterfully refurbished by Design Unlimited, showcases walnut cabinetry, solid timber floors, and a soothing palette accented with mauve hues.Lady A is propelled by two rebuilt 3516B Caterpillar diesel engines, boasting a cruising speed of 13 knots. Currently located in Italy, the yacht was last listed at €7,900,000 with VAT paid.Credits: Yacht Harbour archive
April 17, 2024