What Is a Superyacht?
A superyacht is a very large and luxurious boat. These yachts are built for pleasure and comfort. They are often owned by very rich people, royal families, and top business leaders. Superyachts usually have many decks. They include many modern features such as swimming pools, helipads, gyms, cinemas, and luxurious lounges. Some even have special rooms like spas and concert halls.
Superyachts are built using high-quality materials. They are made from steel, aluminum, and sometimes fiberglass. The design and engineering of these yachts are very advanced. Only a few shipyards in the world have the skill to build a superyacht. Well-known builders include Lürssen, Feadship, Blohm+Voss, and Benetti.
The biggest superyacht in the world is the Azzam, measuring 180 meters (590 feet) in length. Launched in 2013 by the German shipyard Lürssen Yachts, Azzam holds the title of the world’s longest private yacht.
Azzam Design and Construction
The construction of Azzam was led by engineer Mubarak Saad al Ahbabi, with technical engineering by Lürssen Yachts. The exterior design was crafted by Nauta Yachts, while the interior was designed by Christophe Leoni. The project began with a year of engineering development, followed by a three-year construction period, which is considered a record time for a yacht of this size.
Specifications
Azzam boasts impressive specifications:
- Length: 180 meters (590 feet)
- Beam (Width): 20.8 meters (68.4 feet)
- Draft (Depth): 4.3 meters (14.1 feet)
- Gross Tonnage: Approximately 13,000 GT
- Engines: Two gas turbines and two diesel engines, producing a total of 70 MW (94,000 horsepower)
- Propulsion: Four water-jet units, including two fixed and two with steerable nozzles
- Maximum Speed: Over 32 knots (approximately 37 mph)
Interior Features
While specific details about Azzam’s interior remain private, it is known to feature a main salon measuring 29 meters (95 feet) in length and 18 meters (59 feet) in width, designed as an open space without supporting pillars. The interior is described as luxurious and sophisticated, reflecting the high standards expected in a vessel of this caliber.
Ownership
Azzam was commissioned by Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the United Arab Emirates. The yacht is considered a private vessel and is not available for charter.
Comparison with Other Superyachts
Azzam surpasses other notable superyachts in length:
Eclipse: 162.5 meters (533 feet), owned by Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich.
Dubai: 162 meters (531 feet), owned by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai.
Dilbar: 156 meters (511 feet), owned by Russian billionaire Alisher Usmanov.
These yachts, while impressive, do not match Azzam’s length of 180 meters.
Conclusion
Azzam remains the biggest superyacht in the world, showcasing remarkable engineering, luxurious design, and unparalleled performance. Its creation set new standards in the yachting industry, reflecting the ambition and vision of its owner and builders.
