SailingJoy.com

Friday, November 26, 2010

Luxury boats are traditionally the cherry on the top of the cake when it comes to demonstrating prosperity among the rich people around the world. There are thousands of big and luxurious yachts - all offering their owners ultimate comfort and exceptional joy at sea. Among motor yachts there five boats that stand out – their enormous length and luxury is unmatched – they are the longest yachts in the world.

Number one is reserved for Eclipse. This 560 ft (170 m) long mega yacht was completed in 2010 and her proud owner is Roman Abramovich. Needless to say, the yacht offers an exceptional comfort and luxury. Ecipse has two helicopter pads, two swimming pools and can easily host between 60 and 80 guests, not counting the 70-person crew. Something that you don’t normally see on a private yacht and makes Eclipse distinct is the submarine on board which can dive up to 160 ft depth. Another unique feature of Eclipse is the missile defense system that ensures the security of everyone on board. Eclipse maximum speed is 25 knots.

Dubai is currently the second largest yacht in the world. She is 524 ft (162m) long and was built in 2006. The owner of this luxury yacht is Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum – the ruler of Dubai and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates. Dubai is equipped with a helicopter pad, a spectacular pool, and numerous dining and rest areas. A special aspect is the impressive variety of water sport activities equipment available on board. The yacht can accommodate 70 guests and 40 crew members. Despite of its size, Dubai can cruise with the impressive maximum speed of 26 knots.

Al Said is 508 ft (155 m) long and was completed in 2007. Currently, she is the third largest yacht in the world. Her owner is Qaboos bin Said Al Said – the Sultan of Oman. Al Said impresses not only with its speed – her cruise speed is 22 knots with maximum speed of 25 knots but also with the extraordinary comfort and luxury on all of its 6 decks. This mega yacht can host 65 guests and a quite large crew team of up to 150 people. Among the distinct features of Al Said are its sandy color and the concert room on board which can accommodate a 50 member orchestra.

Prince Abdulaziz is a spectacular 483 ft (147 m) mega yacht. Compared to the other largest yachts in the world, Prince Abdulaziz is quite old – it was built in 1984. She is the largest yacht in the world built in the 20th century and was considered the world’s largest yacht for more than two decades. Despite its age and size, the yacht demonstrates a cruising speed of 18 knots and an impressive maximum speed of 22 knots. This luxury yacht is a property of the Saudi Arabia Royal Family.

Al Salamah is currently the fifth largest yacht in the world. She is owned by the Saudi Arabia defense minister – Prince Sultan bin Abdul Aziz. Al Salamah measures 457 feet (139 m) in length and was built in 1999. Among the amenities on board are a movie theater, a spa salon, a library and a fully equipped hospital. The yacht’s cruising speed is 17 knots with a maximum speed of 21 knots.

These are the five largest motor yachts in the world as of 2010. Considering the vast expansion and popularity of sailing around the world, we can expect that even bigger and more luxurious yachts will be built in the near future. Most of the mega yachts above 100 feet are built in Germany. Two of the world’s most notable ship builders (also German) are Blohm+Voss and Lürssen. If you want to join the circle of the mega yacht owners you have many options – luxury yacht builders will work with you on bringing to life you dream boat – everything about you dream toy can be done to match your taste – from the size and speed to the specific bedroom number on board and special amenities. All you need is just to make sure you put enough cash aside. A good start would be a few million dollars…and the maximum price…the sky is the limit – just like your dreams.