The word Yacht is generally associated with the rich, and that’s for a reason. They are ultra-luxurious, privately owned vessels that serve as floating mansions and status symbols for the world’s most influential individuals. Often spanning over 100 meters, these yachts feature everything from helipads and clubs to spas and security systems. For many billionaires, owning a yacht isn’t just about leisure, it’s a blend of privacy, power, and prestige on the high seas. Here’s a look at the world’s most expensive yachts, an echelon above the rest:
1. The History Supreme, Robert Kuok (Net worth: $11.4 billion)
Owned by Malaysian businessman Robert Kuok, this yacht is rumored to be worth $4.8 billion and is considered as the most unique and expensive yacht in the world. This sea-palace took 3 years to complete and was crafted using nearly 10,000 kilograms of gold and precious metals by designer Stuart Hughes.
2. Eclipse, Roman Abramovich (Net worth: $9.2 billion)
This structure is owned by Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich and is worth $1.5 billion, was once the world’s longest private yacht, and is known for its extravagant features and design. It features a missile defense system, two helipads, and a swimming pool that can be converted into a dance floor.
3. Project 821, Bill Gates (Net worth: $108 billion)
Reports have linked this beast to tech magnate and philanthropist Bill Gates, however some rumours suggest that he is now selling it. What makes the Project 821 Feadship superyacht truly exceptional is that it is hydrogen-powered and took 5 years to complete. Valued at $645 million, it is acclaimed as the greenest and most environmentally advanced yacht ever built, without compromise.
4. Dilbar, Alisher Usmanov (Net worth: $17.1 billion)
Russian billionaire Alisher Usmanov, known for his penchant for all things luxury owns a yacht priced at $600 million called Dilbar. This is one of the largest yachts by gross tonnage, providing a massive amount of luxury space.
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5. Sailing Yacht A, Andrey Melnichenko (Net worth: $17.54 billion)
Russian billionaire and industrialist Andrey Melnichenko, the one-time main beneficiary of both the fertiliser-producing EuroChem Group and the coal energy company SUEK. In an unforeseen move, his yacht, Sailing Yacht A which was valued at $600 million, was seized in Trieste on 12 March 2022 due to the EU’s sanctions on Russian businessmen.
6. Serene, Mohammed bin Salman (Net worth: $25 billion)
The Serene yacht is known for its spa-like features, including a snow room, a steam room, and an underwater viewing room. It is owned by Saudi billionaire Mohammed bin Salman and valued at $330 million. As the name suggests, it is perfect for long journeys and provides unmatched relaxation and luxury.
7. Drizzle, Amancio Ortega (Net worth: $124 billion)
It is owned by Amancio Ortega, a Spanish billionaire and the clothing retailer who co-founded Inditex, a company which oversees Zara and Massimo Dutti. His yacht, The Drizzle, is valued at $300 million and runs at a top speed of 18 knots, equipped with a beach club and a wellness area.
8. Symphony, Bernard Arnault (Net worth: $148.7 billion)
French billionaire businessman and art collector Bernard Arnault. Chairman and chief executive of LVMH, the world’s largest luxury goods company, owns the Symphony which is known for its blend of luxury and eco-friendliness, incorporating advanced technology and design for optimal performance and energy efficiency. It is valued at $150 million and adheres to strict safety standards, a trait that its owner emphasises highly.
9. Amevi, Lakshmi Mittal (Net worth: $19.2 billion)
Indian steel magnate Lakshmi Mittal is the Chairman of Arcelor Mittal, the world’s largest steel and mining company by output. His yacht is a luxury vessel valued at around $125 million, known for its opulence and extensive amenities. The Amevi is a 262-meter-long superyacht with various luxurious features, designed by Alberto Pinto and built by Nuvolari Lenard.
10. Odessa II, Len Blavatnik (Net worth: $26.5 billion)
Businessman Len Blavatnik is the founder of Access Industries, a private holding company and global investment firm with holdings in Warner Music Group. He owns a luxury yacht called the Odessa II, is known for its relaxed family cruising focus and elegant New Hampton-style interiors. It was nominated for the World Superyacht Awards in 2014 and is priced at $80 million.
Written by Teertha Ravichandran
