Yachts have long been a symbol of luxury and extravagance, with some of the world’s wealthiest individuals owning their own fleet of yachts. However, when it comes to owning the most expensive yacht in the world, only a select few can claim that title. In this article, we will take a closer look at who owns the most expensive yacht and what makes it so special.
The Rise of Super Yachts
While yachts have been around for centuries, the concept of the super yacht is a relatively recent development. These massive vessels are often custom-built to the owner’s specifications and can cost hundreds of millions of dollars to construct and maintain.
There are several reasons why super yachts have become increasingly popular in recent years. For one, they offer the ultimate in privacy and exclusivity, allowing owners to travel the world in style without the prying eyes of the paparazzi or curious onlookers. Additionally, super yachts offer unparalleled comfort and luxury, with features like onboard spas, cinemas, helipads, and even submarine garages.
The World’s Most Expensive Yachts
There are several contenders for the title of the world’s most expensive yacht, but there is one vessel that stands out above all others: the History Supreme. This stunning vessel is owned by an anonymous Malaysian businessman and is valued at a staggering $4.8 billion.
So, what makes the History Supreme so special? For one, it is constructed entirely of gold and platinum, with every surface covered in precious metal. The 100-foot yacht is also adorned with dozens of rare and priceless jewels, including a meteorite-based statue in the master suite that is said to be worth over $200 million alone.
Other luxurious features of the History Supreme include a dining area made from a single piece of carved glass, a swimming pool with a waterfall feature, and a liquor bottle made from an extremely rare 18.5 carat diamond. The vessel also boasts a state-of-the-art security system, with fingerprint recognition technology and bulletproof glass windows.
While the History Supreme is undoubtedly the most expensive yacht in the world, there are several other vessels that come close in terms of cost and luxury. Here are a few of the most notable contenders:
Eclipse
Owned by Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich, the Eclipse is valued at around $1.5 billion. At 533 feet long, it is one of the largest yachts in the world and features amenities like two helicopter pads, multiple swimming pools, a disco hall, and a submarine.
Azzam
The Azzam is owned by Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the United Arab Emirates, and is estimated to be worth around $600 million. At 590 feet long, it is currently the longest yacht in the world and features a stunning interior designed by French architect Christophe Leoni.
Topaz
Owned by Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, a member of the Abu Dhabi ruling family, the Topaz is valued at around $527 million. At 482 feet long, it features a helipad, movie theater, and an onboard gym and spa.
Dilbar
Owned by Russian billionaire Alisher Usmanov, the Dilbar is valued at around $256 million. At 512 feet long, it is one of the largest yachts in the world and features a stunning interior designed by Andrew Winch.
The Cost of Owning a Super Yacht
While owning a super yacht may seem like the ultimate status symbol, it comes with a hefty price tag. In addition to the initial cost of the vessel, owners must also budget for ongoing maintenance and operational expenses.
Some of the most significant expenses associated with owning a super yacht include:
Crew Salaries
Super yachts require a highly skilled and experienced crew to operate and maintain them, including captains, engineers, chefs, and deckhands. The cost of crew salaries can easily exceed six figures per month.
Fuel Costs
Super yachts consume vast amounts of fuel, with some vessels using up to 500 gallons an hour at cruising speed. This can add up quickly, with owners often spending millions of dollars per year on fuel alone.
Maintenance and Repairs
Maintaining a super yacht is a complex and expensive process that requires regular servicing and repairs. Everything from the engines to the onboard electronics must be maintained to ensure that the vessel remains in top condition.
Docking and Berthing Fees
Super yachts must be moored in specialized marinas and ports that can accommodate their massive size. These facilities can charge exorbitant fees for berthing, with some marinas charging thousands of dollars per night.
Insurance
Insuring a superyacht can be expensive, often running into the hundreds of thousands of dollars a year. This is due to the high value of the yacht, so a lot of money is spent to protect it.
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