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This $8 Billion Turtle-Shaped Yacht Is Not a Joke

By Katherine McLaughlin

Among many things that weren’t on our Bingo cards for 2022, a giant turtle-shaped yacht—which is also being described as a floating city —is certainly at the top of the list. And yet, here we are. As CNN reported, an Italian design firm, Lazzarini Design Studio , has drafted plans for a massive boat shaped like an oversized tortoise with outstretched flippers. The vessel is so big that it’s not even being called a superyacht , but rather designers have described it as a terayacht. As such, it was given an appropriately big name, Pangeos , a nod to Pangea, the ancient supercontinent that once incorporated almost all of Earth’s landmasses. According to Lazzarini, the ship will be big enough to hold various hotels, apartments, condos, shopping centers, parks, and other amenities for up to 60,000 guests. The yacht will even have ship and aircraft ports so guests can visit when Pangeos isn’t docked near land. Which is helpful since, as of now, the company doesn’t foresee any strict itinerary, but rather expects the turtle to simply coast around the world. 

Many of the amenities and homes are designed around a central town square.

Extending 1,800 feet in length and measuring 2,000 feet at its widest point, the boat is poised to be the largest floating structure ever built. That is, of course, if it does get built, which is a whole other obstacle in and of itself. As the Pangeos website explains, “the terayacht needs a terashipyard,” which doesn’t currently exist. The project requires a yard that is about 200 miles wide and 180 miles long, which also means dredging about 0.4 square miles of the sea with a circular dam. Once the yacht is constructed, the dam can open, flooding the area and essentially launching the vessel. Lazzarini has currently suggested the coast of Saudi Arabia as the ideal location for construction. 

Since the goal is usually to minimize drag, boats don’t usually stray from the standard V shape—and are even less frequently formed like marine animals—but Pangeos ’s flippers are more than just a peculiarity. According to the company, the extremities will capture kinetic energy from the waves, which will allow the boat to cruise perpetually without emissions. The rooftop area would also be equipped with solar panels for additional power, should it be necessary; electric engines are also included in the design.

Within the terraced villa, guests can find houses, buildings, and rooftop terraces, with an upper zone that offers landing of various flying vehicles.

According to the firm, the total cost to build the massive vessel will be nothing short of $8 billion. Construction will also take, at minimum, eight years, and Lazzarini doesn’t expect that this could even begin until 2025. With a hefty price tag and decent wait time, the company has conjured a plan to alleviate both. Designed as an NFT crowdfunding project, the firm is selling “Unreal Estate,” allowing interested buyers to purchase virtual boarding tickets, hotel rooms, and even houses for a metaverse version of the yacht, which the company says will be ready for (virtual) boarding by 2023. 

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By Brett Berk

By Caroline Eubanks

LUXURY AT SEA

DISCOVER NEW HORIZONS OF HAPPINESS

Introducing Vidanta Elegant Ultra Mega Yacht, an unequaled exploration of luxury and Mexico’s coastline, brought to life by Vidanta. Savor the tranquility and beauty of the sea, all while enjoying the attention to detail and world-renowned care you’ve come to know and love.

Introducing

Vidanta elegant ultra mega yacht.

Vidanta Elegant Ultra Mega Yatch offers a sophisticated, adults-only experience at sea. This exclusive ship was specially designed to showcase an up-scale and intimate way to sail unlike anything else offered.

ACCOMMODATIONS

ENTERTAINMENT

EFFORTLESS VACATIONS

Only Vidanta offers a seamless vacation that encompasses a stay at one of the world's top hotels and a luxury-filled voyage at sea, all in one amazing and relaxing trip!

A SAFER WAY TO SAIL

Vidanta Elegant Ultra Mega Yacht features the Vidanta Extraordinary Standards®, our industry-leading safety protocols, and our yacht liner is outfitted with a medical-grade PYURE filtration system that is proven to eliminate 99.9% of viruses.

When they ask where you’re from: The World

Explore every ocean and continent in luxurious comfort. As an owner aboard The World , you’re part of a unique international community of adventurers living aboard the largest private residential yacht on Earth.

Choosing a Journey of endless exploration.

Every Resident of The World has a voice in choosing the extraordinary destinations and curated experiences of each year’s itinerary.

The most extraordinary Home you will ever own.

Each of the 165 Residences aboard The World is a luxurious, custom-designed private Home. Will you own a stylish Studio, comfortable one-bedroom Residence, or a sprawling two- or three-bedroom Ocean Residence?

Expeditions: Life-changing experiences only The World can offer.

Each year, Residents of The World have the opportunity to join our extraordinary Expeditions. These weeks-long voyages range across some of the most remote and fascinating waters and lands on Earth, led by preeminent experts in ecology, culture, and adventurous exploration.

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Determine whether life aboard The World is the right fit for you. Talk to one of our Residential Advisors today to learn more about this unique lifestyle, details of upcoming Journeys and Expeditions, and ownership opportunities.

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Crystal Endeavor Megayacht

Crystal Endeavor will be the world’s first purpose-built polar class megayacht with P6 polar-class designation.

Vessel Type

Crystal Cruises

Lloyd Werft

Steel Cutting

Maiden voyage.

Crystal Endeavor will be the world’s first purpose-built mega-yacht with P6 polar-class designation. Lloyd Werft Group is building the vessel at its shipyard in Bremerhaven, Germany, for Crystal Cruises.

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The megayacht derived its name from HME Endeavor, the research ship used by Captain James Cook to discover Australia and New Zealand.

The yacht construction will begin with its steel cutting ceremony, which is expected in May 2016. Reservations will be opened for its debut expedition in late 2016.

Following its maiden voyage in 2018, the vessel will operate in Arctic, Antarctic and tropical regions.

Crystal Endeavor design and accommodation details

The Crystal Endeavor megayacht will be 183m long and offer a gross tonnage of 25,000t. It will provide accommodation for 200 travellers in 100 guest suites.

Once operational, the vessel will be the world’s largest and the most spacious megayacht. Its largest suites will have a total area of 3,122ft², including 1,614ft² interior and 1,507ft² balcony areas.

Its luxury suites will feature a master bedroom, two guest bedrooms, indoor and outdoor living areas, a private conservatory, a garden and an outdoor Jacuzzi, as well as a private spa and gym outfitted with sauna, steam and treatment rooms.

The 400ft² standard suites will be larger than those in current luxury cruise ships.

The vessel will offer 270° panoramic views for watching aquatic wildlife through the Crystal’s signature Palm Court aboard the vessel.

Facilities aboard Crystal Endeavor

The luxury yacht will offer personalised services and a 1:1 crew-to-guest ratio.

It will provide two helicopters and landing pads for flight expeditions, as well as two seven-person submarines, eight electric amphibious zodiacs, jet skis, wave runners, kayaks, paddle boards, snorkelling and scuba equipment, a recompression chamber, and a multi-person all-terrain vehicle (ATV).

Guests can also experience a ride on SEABOB, the world’s most technically advanced underwater scooter.

The yacht will offer a common spa and conservatory space for leisure. A 10,000ft² area will provide a full-service spa, yoga, pilates, a salon, a wellness centre and jacuzzis.

The vessel will also feature an infinity pool, the base of which can be converted into a dance floor or an open-air dining space. Other entertainment venues aboard the vessel will include a 200-seat theatre, a cinema, a card room and a computer centre.

Navigation and propulsion of Crystal Endeavor

The megayacht will be equipped with a state-of-the-art dynamic positioning system (DPS). The computer-controlled systems of the DPS will automatically adjust propellers and thrusters to manage the ship’s position, even in adverse weather conditions.

The system will also help the yacht float over coral reefs without using anchors, preventing damage to underwater flora and fauna.

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SOMNIO Yacht – World’s Largest Yacht Will Launch in 2024

SOMNIO yacht is the name of an exclusive new yacht project that will measure 222 meters (728 ft) and will become the new largest yacht in the world, both by weight and length.

This $600 million project has been described as a residential cruise ship designed to take its exclusive passengers around the world to the most sought-after destinations in remote places.

The interior of the SOMNIO yacht will be made up of 39 individual apartments, which are to be sold separately, giving this mega yacht more than one owner.

The yacht is currently being built by VARD in Norway and is expected to set sail sometime in 2024.

SOMNIO yacht interior

While the exterior of the SOMNIO yacht is being constructed by a shipyard specialized in cruise ships, the interior is unmistakably that of a superyacht.

The London-based design house Winch will collaborate with Tillberg of Sweden, both of which have extensive experience in the world of yacht design.

This will elevate the interior of SOMNIO and set it apart from other residential vessels like, for example, THE WORLD, which appeals to a far more budget-conscious target audience.

By combining the upscale amenities and design of a super yacht with the capabilities and facilities of a luxury cruise liner, SOMNIO is meant to cater to those who want to explore remote corners of the world from the comfort of their own home on the water. 

The SOMNIO yacht will have 39 apartments available for purchase which can be customized with additional rooms or private facilities. 

While a large portion of the yacht will be shared by all residents, SOMNIO also prioritizes the privacy that a private yacht might provide.

Buyers are encouraged to add a kitchen to their apartments to make themselves self-sufficient and able to cook for themselves on longer journeys.

However, an onboard restaurant with room service is available to cater to the needs of residents should they want a more luxurious experience. 

Apartments onboard the SOMNIO yacht range from just one-bedroom suites to four-bedroom residences, which can be customized to include a library, massage room, private gym or office space.

Sizes will start at 182m2, which includes 148m2 interior space and a 34m2 terrace. The largest apartment available is the 963m2 penthouse which spans across the entire top deck.

With 602m2 interior space and a spacious 361m2 deck, this property is guaranteed to attract high-profile buyers. 

The interior design is entirely customizable, and buyers are invited to submit their ideas and requirements to the team at Winch.

The idea is for each resident to customize their living space to their own lifestyle, which might include extended stays onboard or several shorter trips.

Some might plan to work onboard while others will spend time with their families, which might require more space. 

In addition to a large swimming pool, multiple jacuzzis, and several in-house restaurants, SOMNIO yacht offers a 10,000-bottle wine cellar, a large beach club with water sports equipment, and a panorama lounge to its residents. 

Specifications

SOMNIO will become the new largest yacht in the world, measuring 222 meters (728 ft) and taking the title from AZZAM.

At a total weight of 33,500 tons, this massive yacht is often compared to a small cruise ship that caters to the richest and wealthiest. 

However, instead of joining the never-ending race of building new super yachts, SOMNIO is set to create an entirely new niche, combining yachts and cruise ships into the so-called yacht liner. 

According to Jim Dixon, the creative director of yachts at Winch Design, a large part of the building process of the SOMNIO yacht will be similar to that of a cruise ship.

VARD, where the SOMNIO yacht is being constructed, has extensive experience in this field which is why the shipyard was chosen for this project. 

Erik Bredhe is just one prominent name behind this high-profile project. The former Captain of the residential cruise ship THE WORLD is part of a steering committee that will be in charge of selecting residents for SOMNIO and inviting them to purchase apartments.

With this, he hopes to create a “community of like-minded individuals” on board the mega yacht. 

Even though the launch of SOMNIO still lies at least two years in the future, there is already considerable interest in this new yacht, according to Jim Dixon.

Since the onboard apartments are highly customizable, there is even the possibility of one owner purchasing more than one residence aboard the yacht.

This unique new yacht project will feature six decks, a large swimming pool aft of the vessel as well as a full beach club.

The 39 apartments will be spread across the decks and only the largest of which will occupy the entire top deck.

This penthouse suite will be the most exclusive onboard the SOMNIO yacht and is expected to sell for far more than the estimated $20 million for smaller apartments.

Digital renders of the mega yacht portray it with a metallic blue exterior with white elements and a large aluminum superstructure. The decks will be made of light teak with white or cream deck furniture.

The front of SOMNIO will have space for a spacious helipad which allows even large aircraft to land comfortably.

The SOMNIO yacht will follow an itinerary all around the world, prioritizing less-visited locations to be able to provide unique experiences to its residents.

The highly-experienced crew is prepared to cater to every need of its guests and adjust the route according to the wishes of the residents. ‘

Day trips and land excursions are, of course, available on request, as well as special events and celebrations. 

SOMNIO is a luxury project , and as to be expected, the price tag of this mega yacht is sizable. The project is estimated to cost between $500 and $600 million, although an exact figure is not publicly available.

The 39 luxury apartments will be available for $20 million each, although sales are expected to be by invite only.

Each apartment will be customizable and can be adapted to the needs and lifestyle of each resident. 

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Portugal to Build Japan’s First Mega-Yacht Cruise Ship

The Japanese cruise ship market is experiencing growth with the announcement of a new luxury mega-yacht cruise ship being ordered by Ryobi Holdings. The company, known for its operations in transportation and tourism, plans to offer a unique cruise experience, including visits to remote islands on a small boat. The ship will feature a marina for water activities, a first for the Japanese market, and will accommodate 120 passengers and 100 crew members. It is scheduled for delivery in 2027 from the Viana do Castelo shipyard in Portugal.

This expansion in the Japanese cruise market comes as NYK and Mitsui O.S.K. have made new investments, and niche operators like Peace Boat have added new cruise ships. MOL is also planning to introduce new features to its cruise ships, acquired from Carnival Corporation’s Seabourn Cruises, to cater to the growing leisure travel market in Japan. The resurgence in the Japanese cruise market aligns with the global trend of modern mega-yacht style luxury cruise ships, with companies like Scenic Cruises and Emerald Cruises also building similar ships.

The new Japanese cruise ship by Ryobi Holdings reflects the growing interest in luxury cruise experiences in Japan and southwest Asia. With the expansion of the cruise market in Japan, the country is becoming an increasingly important market for leisure travel, attracting investments from both domestic and international cruise operators.

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Why Royal Caribbean isn't going all in on massive cruise ships despite the wild success of its new Icon of the Seas

• Royal Caribbean International has unveiled a swath of giant cruise ships over the past few years.
• Its CEO said its new world's largest ship, the  Icon of the Seas,  is its "best-selling product" ever.
• But the cruise line doesn't plan on going all in on megaships forever.

Earlier this year, guests at Royal Caribbean's Perfect Day at CocoCay private island were the first to revel at the historic sight of the world's largest cruise ships, Icon of the Seas and Wonder of the Seas, docked side-by-side.

The vessels towered over their communal dock like skyscrapers, casting a dark shadow over their relatively tiny shared pier.

Together, they can accommodate about 19,250 people.

At 1,196 feet long and weighing 248,663 gross tons, the Icon of the Seas is a sight to behold. When it launched in late January, the giant vessel upstaged its eight-foot shorter predecessor, the Wonder of the Seas , as the world's biggest.

At the time, it was no surprise: Every new Royal Caribbean ship seemed to dethrone another Royal Caribbean ship for this title.

But not for long.

The company's smaller ships, important for diverse trips, are aging.

The company is synonymous with its mega vessels. And they've been mega-hits: Michael Bayley, the president and CEO of Royal Caribbean International, has repeatedly called the Icon of the Seas the "best-selling product" in the company's history.

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Royal Caribbean is set to launch four more megaships by 2028 — representing about a third of its total fleet. So far, most of the megaships' scheduled sailings are in the Caribbean.

The other 21 smaller vessels tend to have more specialized itineraries, Patrick Scholes, the managing director of lodging and leisure-equity research at Truist Securities, told Business Insider.

Given their trimmer sizes, these vessels can operate more sailings outside the Caribbean , which often reel in high fares and customer satisfaction for the company, Jay Schneider, the chief product-innovation officer at Royal Caribbean Group, told reporters in January. Think of the Mediterranean, Alaska, and South Pacific itineraries — the latter are especially important as the cruise line continues to ramp up business in Asia.

But these destination-flexible cruise liners are aging as Royal Caribbean continues to unveil their giant counterparts. The company launched its four oldest Vision-class ships, with a maximum 2,730-guest capacity, between 1996 and 1998.

They're tiny and old compared to the 2-month-old, 7,600-guest Icon of the Seas .

Looking ahead, Royal Caribbean plans to return to the basics: smaller cruise ships.

Despite the cruise line's success with mega-vessels, Schneider said Royal Caribbean is now considering a new class of ships that would start "smaller" — noting that he was "careful to say small, but less-than-large."

"The reality is, families want to go on vacations not just in the Western and Eastern Caribbean where a ship like Icon can get into," Schneider said. "They want to stay with our brand and journey to different destinations that require more versatility in ship size."

Desirable destinations such as French Polynesia and Venice, Italy, have limited visiting cruises , including size restrictions, to curb pollution and overcrowding. But, as Schneider said, small-vessel-enabled specialized itineraries are also important to travelers.

Giant mass-market floating resorts also often attract first-time cruisers, enamored by their family-friendly water parks and Broadway-style shows. But after a few good vacations at sea, these no-longer-new-to-cruising guests might start craving quieter ships or more bespoke itineraries.

"Alaska cruises tend not to be the first-time cruiser," Scholes told BI. "I don't really see Icon of the Seas doing a Norwegian Fjord or Alaska trip."

Plus, "there's probably only so much demand for these giant ships," Scholes said.

Royal Caribbean has already succeeded in the first part: bringing in a swath of new cruisers with its megaships. Now, it has to retain them.

Watch: Inside the world's biggest cruise ship that just set sail

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CAPE TOWN FOR CAPETONIANS

Here’s why The World is a mega yacht and not a cruise ship

The World, the largest privately owned residential mega yacht on earth, has sparked enquiries about the definition of a yacht and why precisely this ship-like vessel is indeed classified as a yacht.

Also read: World’s largest private mega yacht is heading to Cape Town

For clarification, Brandbuzz Magazine offers the following analogy:

A cruise ship operates like a hotel, where passengers book rooms and follow a set itinerary, while a yacht functions more like a private villa. On a yacht, charterers rent the entire space and have control over how they use it during their rental period, accommodating only the invited guests.

The distinction goes beyond practicality; it’s about the experience. Unlike the crowded environment of a cruise ship with hundreds of passengers, a private yacht offers a personalised journey to destinations of choice, exclusively for family and friends.

In essence, a mega yacht is a privately owned luxury vessel operated by a professional crew, offering a customisable travel experience depending on the owner’s preferences and wealth.

Crew members typically enjoy better wages and work in a more intimate setting, catering to the owner and a select number of guests. Despite its large size, crew members work closely together and have specific responsibilities while maintaining a high level of respect and socialisation among themselves.

Much like a cruise ship, The World has a massive lobby, a deck with a mini-shopping mall, a fitness centre, a golf simulator, an impressive tennis court, a running track, a swimming pool, a library, and, of course, cocktail lounges for the nightlife.

It has 165 residences, including 106 apartments, 19 studio apartments, and 40 studios, all owned by residents.

A cruise ship, on the other hand, is part of a fleet owned by a major corporation and follows a fixed schedule, catering to a large number of passengers year-round. Crew members often work long hours for extended periods, dealing with numerous passengers daily, although they may receive tips in addition to their wages.

And that is why The World is called a mega yacht and not a cruise ship.

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A one-of-a-kind vacation starts with a one-of-a-kind ship. That’s why Vidanta Elegant Ultra Mega Yacht  has been completely customized for guests’ personal space, comfort, and enjoyment. This adults-only ship features all of the up-scale sophistication of a yacht with all the amenities and variety of a cruise.

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Excellence drives every aspect of ELEGANT Ultra Mega Yacht . That’s why we have designed a unique dining experience throughout our diverse collection of sophisticated restaurants and lounges. With a focus on using the highest quality regional ingredients and innovative culinary techniques, each dish highlights the authentic flavors and passion of our chefs.

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Despite wars and sanctions, superyacht market continues recent growth.

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The Phi has been detained in Canary Wharf since March 2022.

A superyacht is a status symbol and the ultimate pleasure boat. What ordinary people envisage doing on cruise ships, the super-rich do on their mega-yachts. Space and change of scenery have appealed to humans from time immemorial. However, with luxury yacht ownership requiring vast sums of disposable income, one would think that factors putting the global economy under pressure, such as inflation, Houthi terrorists and Somali pirates attacking ships in the Red Sea, sanctions following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and before that, the COVID-19 pandemic, would slow down the demand for superyachts. Instead, despite severe disruptions, mainly because of the post-Ukraine 2022 Russian invasion sanctions, with billions sloshing around in the global economy, demand for these vessels has reached a high point, driven by changes in the tastes of the ultra-rich, innovative new uses for superyachts, and the number of buyers able to splurge on such craft.

Expensive Mega-Toys The unique uses of a superyacht are driven by the size and crew demands that separate it from a regular yacht. A superyacht is considered to be a pleasure vessel larger than 24m (80ft) with a full-time captain and crew. This is a costly outlay. There are added costs for not including maintenance, fuel, and expensive power plant, navigation, and communications gear.

The desire for seclusion and social distancing exhibited by the rich since the 2020 pandemic lends itself perfectly to these large, customizable ships that can be taken out to sea. A fully crewed ship is also needed to keep up with for new trend in exploration and environmental sailing, with boat owners venturing outside of the Mediterranean and Caribbean to experience more varied habitats. Other luxury sectors are taking note of these trends driving demand for superyachts, with hotel chains like The Four Seasons and The Ritz-Carlton aiming to offer bespoke superyacht experiences by 2025. By introducing this option, hotel chains are responding to the increased market demand for exploration while creating an experience that is more exclusive and private than a luxury cruise.

Demand has also been driven by an expanding number of prospective superyacht buyers as the number of ultra-high-net-worth individuals continues to increase globally. The growth is primarily driven by American buyers, with significant potential in regions like China and Southeast Asia, where ultra-rich buyers with disposable income are growing at a faster pace than they are in the West. This increase in wealthy customers in Southeast Asia, combined with miles of islands and coastlines, creates the conditions for a robust scene for superyachts in the area. The emergence of a new customer base wealthy enough to purchase super- and mega-yachts has made the industry resilient in the face of government sanctions against one of the industry’s largest consumer bases: Russian oligarchs.

The megayacht Nord, believed to belong to sanctioned Russian oligarch Alexey Mordashov, is seen in ... [+] Hong Kong on Friday, Oct. 7.

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Target: Russia Beginning in the early 2000s, Russian billionaires developed a taste for luxury superyachts, with some like Roman Abramovich (who is reported to own 16 vessels , including the Aquamarine, Eclipse, Garcon, Halo, Pelorus, Solaris and Sussurroo), Alexei Mordashov ( Lady M and Nord ) and Eduard Khudainatov ( Scheherazade , Amadea , Crescent ) placing orders for multiple vessels. According to Superyacht News, an industry publication, Russians account for a significant piece of the world's superyacht market. Their estimated share represents about 10% of superyachts exceeding 40 meters in length. The percentage of Russian ownership rises even further for mega-yachts exceeding 80 meters, where Russians hold the number two spot globally, owning 20% of these vessels. Research by Boat International estimates the contribution of Russian buyers to the global superyacht order book (valued between €35 and €40 billion) to be €3.9 billion.

The popularity of superyachts among Russia’s wealthy has caused them to become a focus of the sanctions imposed on Russia following its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Alongside traditional targets, including Russian financial holdings, banks, and energy, the assets of oligarchs are actively being seized and frozen by Western powers when possible through initiatives like the Russian Elites, Proxies, and Oligarchs (REPO) task force launched by the G7 and the U.S. Treasury’s Kleptocracy Asset Recovery Rewards (KARR) program.

The seizure of superyachts as assets will likely continue through the end of the invasion of Ukraine and possibly beyond. Recently, there have been increasing calls to sell or transfer these assets, allowing Ukraine to use or sell them to compensate for the damages caused by the war.

Eclipse | 162.5m Built in 2010 , Germany

Europe Suffers Even though the superyacht industry has a sizeable consumer base in Russia, the companies building and managing these yachts are primarily based in Western Europe. Many of these boats are built by shipbuilders such as Lürssen in Germany and Heesen Yachts and Oceanco in the Netherlands. This has led one of the shipyards, Damen, to sue the Dutch government over damages it claims it suffered from the EU sanctions. Additionally, companies like Burgess in the UK, Imperial Yachts and Edmiston in Monaco, and Moran Yacht & Ship in the US, in charge of servicing, managing, and brokering superyachts, are also concentrated in the West.

While Western shipyards and management companies may lose revenue because of sanctions and asset seizure of the Russian oligarchs, keeping the yachts frozen generates additional costs for the countries where they are being held. Some Western countries devised a solution to ease the burden on taxpayers, granting owners and their representatives special licenses to pay for the frozen vessels. Notably, France and Spain have allowed the billionaire owners of at least four mega-yachts to pay for their upkeep. In the UK, the Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI) has allowed the management company Burgess to pay for pre-sanction crew salaries of a yacht frozen in the UK.

Though the media associated superyachts with Russian oligarchs, this archetypal image of a superyacht owner may soon grow obsolete if the sanctions regime remains or even strengthens, causing multi-million dollar losses to the industry. Instead, growth in the sector is driven by a new class of rich being created in places like the United States and the Pacific Rim, seeking luxury lifestyles that can be provided by a superyacht. The superyacht industry will capitalize on the unprecedented wave of demand to increase its resilience in the stormy global security and economic environment.

Quin Buckley & Henry Tsai contributed to the production of this article.

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The 49-guest Harmony V is a sleek mega-yacht cruising the Mediterranean region and is comparable to the private yachts anchoring in ports around the world. High-tech with luxurious interiors and a classic high-end style, Harmony V is a spacious, stable and classy choice for cruising the Mediterranean.

Harmony V Review

AdventureSmith Explorations’ Harmony V review includes a detailed description of the small ship including deck plans and a photo gallery. Our Mediterranean experts have been aboard the Harmony V firsthand. Please read our Harmony V review below then contact our small ship cruise experts to compare the Harmony V with other  small cruise ships  offering  Mediterranean small ship cruises and small ship cruises to Greece .  

The Harmony V mega-yacht was renovated and relaunched in June 2017. She complies with Eurosolas safety regulations, while powerful engines, generators and state-of-the-art twin stabilizers allow for safe and comfortable cruising. Choose this vessel for a comfortable Mediterranean cruise or charter cruise with a high-end yacht feel.

Common Areas Aboard Harmony V

A spacious lounge and small library with classy seating and an American bar leads into a dining area decorated with warm colors. Both areas offer large windows providing for the most beautiful views. A 656-square-foot Sun Deck offers a shaded outdoor area for all-day dining and a bar as well as sun chairs and loungers. The swimming platform on the stern allows for easy water access for a wide range of sea-related activities. WiFi is available in public areas for a fee.

Dining Aboard Harmony V

Some meals are served al fresco on the Sun Deck, also an ideal place to bask under the sun, read a good book or just gaze at the scenery. The classy interior dining room has large windows, providing gorgeous views, while accommodating all guests in one single seating. Trained chefs produce a high standard of cuisine, always with some local flavors. Special dietary requests can be accommodated with advance notice.

Activities Aboard Harmony V

Start the day with a dip into the crystal clear blue seas from the comforts of Harmony V’s state-of-the-art stern, enabling easy access into and out of the water. Take advantage of onboard snorkeling equipment, kayaks and beach towels for additional water-based exploration. Back on the ship, board games help entertain between exciting activity stops.

Cabins & Deck Plan Aboard Harmony V

The Harmony V cabins are all located on the Upper and Main Decks and have large windows; an en suite bathroom with shower, elegant Corian finishing and glass; and individually controlled air conditioning. The 25 classic cabins are finished with wood paneling, bright carpets and warm fabrics creating an upscale and comfortable atmosphere. Each cabin features twin or queen-sized beds; Upper Deck cabins feature flexible bed configuration. Also in each cabin is a flatscreen TV, DVD player, music channels, mini fridge, direct dial telephone (for internal use), 220v adapters, safe deposit box and hair dryer.

The 3 Category C cabins are located on the Main Deck and have 1 double bed. Approximately 119-135 square feet.

The 6 Category B cabins are located on the Main Deck, have good sized windows and can be configured with 2 lower beds or 1 double bed. Approximately 135-140.5 square feet.

The 14 Category A cabins are located on the Upper Deck, have large view windows and can be configured with 2 lower beds or 1 double bed. Approximately 135-146 square feet.

The 2 Category P cabins are located on the Upper Deck, have large view windows and can be configured with 2-3 lower beds or 1 double bed. Triple occupancy available. Approximately 150-173 square feet.

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On this spectacular 8-day Classical Greece cruise, explore the beautiful Cyclades, Kea, Santorini, Mykonos, Crete, Hydra, Nafplion, Monemvassia and the UNESCO-protected archaeological isle of Delos aboard one of three yachts.

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Learn More About Harmony V & Her Sister Ships

What’s it like aboard the Harmony V? This ship is among a greater fleet of Greece-flagged ships that sail worldwide under the Variety Cruises brand. These yachts will have similar amenities, cabin categories, meals and other services. Contact us to compare them all, browse other operators and get aboard. Harmony V and her sister ships are perfect options to book solo, as a couple, family, group or even as a charter. Our experts are standing by with unbiased advice, personalized to you.

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Yacht vs Cruise Ship: Key Differences Explained

Many travelers look at luxury yacht rentals and cruise ships when planning a vacation at sea. But there are some major distinctions between these two options. Understanding the key differences can help you choose the best one to suit your needs and expectations.

Size and Capacity

The most obvious difference is size and guest capacity. Cruise ships are massive, housing 2000-6000 passengers.

Even small ships carry 600+ people. In contrast, chartered yachts max out around 12 guests, with typical capacities of 6-10. The intimate scale ensures an exclusive escape.

Itineraries and Flexibility

Cruises sail along fixed routes and strict schedules, whereas yacht charters offer total itinerary flexibility. Craft your own custom route with a captain. Spend more time in spots you love and bypass others. The only fixed elements are your start/end ports.

Onboard Experience

The onboard ambiance varies dramatically between the two. Cruise ships feel like floating cities with crowds everywhere. You’ll share amenities with thousands of fellow passengers. Chartered yachts provide a private, peaceful retreat catered to you. No queues or sharing.

Activities and Entertainment

Both offer plenty of amenities, but the vibe is different. Cruises offer fun activities like casinos and shows, while yachts provide relaxation and adventures like snorkeling and fishing. The choice depends on your interests.

Service and Cuisine

With thousands of guests, cruise staff and dining cannot provide truly personalized service. You get more staff interaction on a yacht, including a captain dedicated to your charter. Included in the experience is fine dining with customized menus and premium alcohol.

For an exclusive getaway on your terms, a private yacht charter reigns supreme. But mass market cruises suit travelers who enjoy crowds and scripted entertainment. Evaluate your priorities to choose the best seafaring vacation.

Booking and Costs

Booking a cruise is relatively simple through major cruise lines or agencies, while yacht charters require researching reputable brokers and charter companies, of which there are many. Cruise fares per person are lower, but a fully crewed yacht divided among guests can still be competitive. Keep costs variable by booking a bareboat yacht charter.

Destinations and Departure Ports

Cruise ships certainly provide a wide variety of itineraries, but their large size limits them to major cruise ports. Yachts can access small coves, secluded islands, and exotic locales that mega-ships can’t reach. Many more departure ports are accessible for yacht charters too.

Onboard Accommodations

Staterooms on a cruise provide basic comfort, often with an ocean view. Yachts feature lavish staterooms and master suites with hotel-style amenities. You’ll get complete privacy, often with en-suite bathrooms. Some large charter yachts rival small boutique hotels in luxury. .

Health and Safety

Mass gatherings on cruises can enable the rapid spread of illnesses like COVID or norovirus. Yachts provide isolation from crowds and allow immunocompromised guests to vacation safely. Strict protocols keep private yachts disinfected, and both options mandate safety drills and procedures.

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We pride ourselves on the personal service we offer our guests, whilst our highly experienced consultants are specialists in tailor made arrangements, meaning that they have the local knowledge and experience to recommend and book pre and post hotel stays, transport and other land arrangments according to your specific preferences and requirements.

The combination of our unique yacht cruises plus the personal service we offer from the booking stage through to the holiday itself, is perhaps why many of our guests re-book with us year after year.

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Our holiday experts have meticulously designed pre-made packages that seamlessly complement the available cruise and flight options departing from the UK. These thoughtfully crafted packages ensure a hassle-free and enjoyable holiday experience.

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A blend of traditional sailing experience with modern comforts. These vessels, featuring classic designs and equipped with the latest amenities, provide a unique and intimate way to explore various destinations. They are ideal for those seeking a more authentic sailing adventure, combining the charm of traditional sailing with the luxury and convenience of modern cruising.

These majestic vessels combine traditional windjammer elegance with modern luxury, accommodating a select number of passengers for an intimate and premium cruising adventure. The ships, designed for both comfort and style, allow guests to experience the romance of classic sailing while enjoying contemporary amenities and personalized service.

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Here at Seafarer we specialise in small ship cruises. Our smallest ship carries just 34 passengers – and the largest only 140. Most carry on average around 40 passengers and get into places large ships cannot. They combine the comfort and service you would expect of cruise ship, with the ambience and friendliness of a private yacht, hence we prefere to call them Mega Yachts. We take you to some of the world’s most idylic destinations, whith sustainability as a core value.

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Luxury Yacht Charters vs Cruise Ships

Why it’s time to consider a luxury yacht for your next vacation.

For most people, chartering a private yacht seems an unattainable dream- something that only the super-rich could ever afford. Most of us who dream of adventure and luxury at sea therefore settle for taking a cruise on one of the fancier liners. When we come into port we might look a little wistfully at the private yachts, but conclude that they would be too expensive to charter, too out of reach- even on our good incomes.

Todd Beechey founded OceanScape Yachts after having exactly that experience. While in Nassau on a cruise vacation, Todd and his wife wandered around the superyacht marina and dreamt of chartering a yacht one day- they even joked about winning the lotto. They concluded that it would be far too expensive, and thought it would remain just that- a dream, a fun conversation to pass the time on a sunny Bahamian afternoon. But the idea of chartering a yacht just wouldn’t let go.

So rather than leaving it at that, Todd decided to actually find out: How much is it to charter a yacht- and can luxury cruise ship passengers really make the switch to private yachts?

What he discovered-the secret that very few realize-is that  if a group of you are paying for the luxury experience on a cruise ship you could have actually all pitched together and chartered a private yacht instead.

And with more yachts flooding the market as the industry grows, the luxury yachting experience is becoming more affordable with each passing year.

Not only did Todd start chartering stunning yachts with his family and friends year after year, but the idea for OceanScape Yachts was born: the idea of making the extraordinary yachting experience attainable for people who had never imagined it was possible.

So, how expensive is chartering a yacht, really?

The luxury end of the cruise ship industry is undergoing a massive boom. We know that a great many of you are already spending at least $6,000+ per person on all-inclusive cruise vacations, which equates to $12,000 per cabin. We also know that lots of you are spending more than that again- in fact 34% of luxury cruise ship passengers are spending more than $7,000 per person. That’s a very good start towards a yacht charter vacation if you’ve got some friends who’d like to make the step up to luxury yachting.

It’s worth noting here that if you do travel as a couple and have no interest in travelling with friends or family, then the cruise ship option is a better option financially as you would have to absorb the entire cost of yacht charter on your own. (We’re not in the business of pulling the wool over your eyes.)

It’s when you travel with groups that things start to get very interesting on cost comparisons.

A private yacht has a license to sleep up to 12 guests, but at the smaller end 8 guests is more common, so let’s start with that to keep the comparisons realistic. If each person is spending $6,000 on a cruise ship vacation, you and your partner could raise $ 48,000 for a yacht charter by pooling your money together with just three other couples. (Of course, if you were to get a yacht with ten beds you could raise $60,000, and twelve beds you could raise $72,000 towards the cost of charter.)

Remember though, that while cruise ships tend to be all-inclusive or mostly so, on a private yacht you need to pay for food and beverage, fuel, berthing fees and tips on top of your base rate. That’s why OceanScape Yachts have an all-inclusive model available to keep costs transparent.

So let’s assume that using the eight-person model raising a total of $48,000 you can charter a yacht with a base rate of $32,000-with some money left over to pay for the extras.

What kind of yacht will we get for $32,000 a week?

I’m afraid you’re not going to get one of the ones you see on TV with a helipad and huge lap pool, but you will get a fantastic luxury yacht in the 80-100 foot range for that kind of money. As mentioned, it will probably have cabins for eight people, although the rare few will sleep up to 12.

In this size range the yacht will normally have two decks, a deeply comfortable main salon, dining areas and a larger master cabin. The yacht will carry a range of watertoys, AV equipment and will almost certainly have WIFI and flat screen TVs in all cabins. And of course, you’ll have a team of crew dedicated to you for the entire vacation- including the captain, stewardess and private chef.

If you put in a couple of thousand extra per person you can charter a yacht with a base rate of around $40-$45,000, at which point you can expect to get a larger, more luxurious yacht nearing the 100-120 foot mark, particularly on the older models. At this size of a yacht you will often get a Jacuzzi, a main deck master suite, larger deck spaces and an upper salon. You’ll also have a bigger crew, and potentially an extra cabin or two to bring the number of guests up and costs down. However, remember that berthing fees, fuel and tips will also go up with larger yachts, so take that into account when budgeting.

The total cost of your vacation on this size yacht will be in the range of $60-70,000 for the group- still quite comparable to the cost for that same group on a luxury cruise ship.

Why should I make the swap? What’s so great about private yachts?

We don’t mean to criticize cruise ships, but private yachts are another level of luxury entirely. The freedom is exquisite. You’ll speak to your captain each day about the itinerary, you can change your mind whenever you like, and above all, there are none of those awful orange boats bringing you back from a shore excursion when you’re simply not ready to leave. Don’t forget that the private yachts can get into the shallow anchorages and pretty marinas that cruise ships can’t hope to.

On a private yacht, the chef cooks just for you and your friends or family. They’re informed about your food preferences and any allergies, and the yacht is stocked with all your favourite things before you arrive. Each meal is served at a beautifully decorated table on deck and there are no buffet queues or complete strangers making small talk over dinner.

A yacht is an extremely private place to spend time with family and friends where the crew respect your personal space but are always discreetly on hand if you need anything. On a luxury cruise ship, much is made of the butler service, but that is restricted to your room, and when you’re roaming the ship you are just one of many hundreds of guests.

On a luxury yacht, the crew are dedicated just to you and no-one else, whether it’s the deckhand giving you another wakeboarding lesson, the chef grilling the fish you just caught for lunch, or the captain driving you to that nearby reef for a snorkel before breakfast. The stewardess or steward makes sure your cabin is always kept immaculate and keeps you constantly refreshed with food and drink. A yacht charter is all about freedom, privacy, superb food and wonderfully personalized service that cruise ships simply can’t match.

On a cruise ship, you’re just another number in the crowd. On a luxury yacht, you are the star.

Put it this way. You’ll never imagine making the switch back. Just ask Todd Beechey.

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Cruise Etiquette: Tips for Finding Peace and Quiet on Crowded Cruise Ships

W hen I was a travel consultant in the early 2000s, the concern I would most often hear from potential first-time cruisers were about crowded ships: “I don’t want to be cooped up with all those people,” they’d groan.

At the time, the capacity of the industry’s largest ships was just over 2,600 passengers. Today, that’s considered medium-sized. The world’s largest cruise ship, Royal Caribbean’s new Icon of the Seas , can set sail with 7,600 passengers onboard. With the industry reporting a return to pre-pandemic booking levels in 2023, there's enough cruising demand to fill these new mega ships—the Icon of the Seas ' inaugural voyage was nearly sold out just 24 hours after bookings opened, The Points Guy reported. While busy ships help create the fun-loving social atmosphere cruises are best known for, navigating crowded cruises can also lend itself to questionable passenger etiquette (nobody likes a pool chair hog).

Of course, not every cruise will sell out, nor are they all that big. As a rule of thumb, travelers should expect full ships during summer months and popular holiday and school break travel periods. Unfortunately, it's nearly impossible to determine if your cruise has been booked to capacity prior to its sailing (many a Reddit thread has been dedicated to cracking the code).

When anticipating how crowded a cruise ship may feel, the total number of passengers onboard doesn’t tell the whole story. To get a better sense of this, the cruise industry refers to something called the “space ratio,” which takes the total tonnage of the ship and divides it by the number of passengers the ship can accommodate. As one might expect, that ratio is lower on big ship cruise lines— Norwegian , Carnival , and Royal Caribbean generally have less space per passenger. It then increases on premium lines (think Princess , Holland America Line , Celebrity ), and tops out at the luxury end ( Crystal , Regent Seven Seas , Silversea ).

But how can passengers who aren’t booking a boutique cruise ship or a luxury line carve out quiet spaces to themselves onboard bigger ships—while still being respectful of other passengers? Below, find tried and true ways to find space on a crowded cruise ship, whether you're onboard a modern mega ship or an intimate expedition vessel.

The secret ‘ships within a ship’ on mega cruises

The most obvious way to secure your own quiet enclave is to book a balcony stateroom . While small, the value of this outdoor space shouldn’t be underestimated, particularly for itineraries rich with scenic cruising, like voyages to Alaska or the Baltic Sea . Several cruise lines also offer private areas of the ship for top-end suite passengers, including dedicated bars, restaurants, pools, and spas that are off-limits to other cruise goers, Tom Baker , the president of Cruise Center, tells Condé Nast Traveler.

These self-enclosed complexes, such as NCL's The Haven, Celebrity Cruises’ Retreat, and MSC’s Yacht Club, create a “ship within a ship” for higher-paying customers, Baker explains. That way, regardless of how busy your sailing proves to be, you can still enjoy yacht-like privacy—plus the fun-loving social atmosphere and amenities of a large cruise. Other ships have dedicated spaces for suite passengers such as Richard’s Rooftop on Virgin Voyages, or the Grills Lounge and Terrace on Cunard that are located throughout the ship. They may not rise to the same “ship within a ship” level of seclusion, but are still exclusive to qualifying guests.

The majority of passengers will spend their time at the ship's standard pool and deck areas, where you'll likely to come face-to-face with the age-old cruise etiquette question: Is it rude to save seats? In my many years of cruising, I've witnessed personal articles strewn across rows of prime pool seating while passengers slept in or lingered over breakfast, and large swaths of theater seats saved for late-arriving guests. When determining the appropriate time window for seat saving, look to the cruise line’s policy, or ask a nearby staff member: Carnival will remove guest belongings from pool loungers and store them at a nearby towel station if they’ve been left for longer than 40 minutes, for example, and Royal Caribbean will remove belongings if left unattended for 30 minutes.

To circumvent this awkward game of musical chairs, some lines offer premium deck spaces that all passengers—regardless of cabin category—can access for a nominal fee. On Princess Cruises, guests can book cushy lounge chairs from $40 per day in The Sanctuary, an adults-only sun deck with attentive deck servers and added amenities like fruit skewers and Evian facial mists. And on most Holland America Line ships, passengers can reserve cabanas at the private outdoor space, also called The Retreat, with exclusive bar service and ocean views (cabana rentals for two adults start at $75 per cabana on port days and $105 on sea days, and family cabanas for four adults start at $105 on port days and $165 on sea days). Even Seabourn , a luxury small ship cruise line that structures fares on a “mostly-included” model, offers the option to pay extra for premium deck seating in a zone called, yet again, The Retreat.

To find quiet escapes, explore on day one

All right, so pools and sundecks can be crowd-free for a fee—but what about the rest of the ship? Part of the fun of sailing on a cruise is wandering the ship for those quiet corners to relax on your own. “Finding nooks and crannies on ships is about exploring and discovering on day one. They might not be illustrated on the deck plans, but there are often hidden booths and seats spread around for a lovely retreat,” Jason Leppert, founder of the YouTube channel Popular Cruising , tells Traveler.

Veteran cruisers are easy to recognize—they'll lay claim to their favorite tables before the ship even disembarks and reserve the same spot early each morning. My very first sailing was on the Celebrity Millennium , and I quickly found the quietest spot for breakfast was in the Spa Café in the Solarium on Deck 10 each morning. On Princess Cruises’ Caribbean Princess , I often found the Wheelhouse Bar empty when I went for a pre-dinner cocktail, so that became a nightly ritual. And onboard Lindblad Expeditions National Geographic Explorer Islander II in the Galápagos , I wondered why more passengers hadn’t discovered the hammocks strung from the ceiling on the little-used Observation Deck that I often had entirely to myself for afternoon naps.

If you still have difficulty finding your groove on the ship after a round of exploring, consult the experts. Cruise ship crew members live and work aboard their ships for months at a time, so they know them incredibly well. Crew also have their thumbs on passenger habits. If you ask when a specific bar, lounge, or pool is most quiet, they’ll most likely be able to share their detailed observations.

Ultimately, there’s no way around the fact that ships are a vehicle of transportation, and like any vehicle, space is limited. Whether you’ve chosen an intimate yacht cruise , a high-energy expedition voyage , or a quick getaway on one of the industry’s new mega ships , odds are any passenger with an appetite for calm and an eye for seclusion can find their own little slice of peace and quiet.