yacht boat types

A Complete Guide to Yacht Types and Sizes

• by yachtman
• August 28, 2023 August 26, 2023

Yachts, symbols of luxury and leisure, provide a stunning escape. From motor yachts to sailing yachts, the world of yachting is both diverse and captivating. Journey with us as we explore the different types and sizes of yachts, uncovering their secrets.

Climb onboard a superyacht , the queen of the seas. These floating palaces boast remarkable dimensions, with amenities such as swimming pools, helipads, and even submarines. Ideal for those seeking indulgence, superyachts are the epitome of yachting excellence.

For a more intimate experience, try a luxury motor yacht . With powerful engines, they let you visit multiple destinations quickly. Enjoy the lap of luxury as you cruise across the sea, appreciating every moment on board these vessels.

Sailing lovers will appreciate classic sailing yachts . Watch their silhouettes gracefully cut through the waves, powered by wind. Feel the passion for sailing, and the freedom, on an adventure akin to ancient seafarers. Uncover your inner explorer while savoring unparalleled serenity.

Catamarans are ideal for sailing with precision and finesse. With twin hulls offering stability and space, catamarans offer great comfort. Enjoy vibrant sunsets to tranquil anchorages, and bliss on water, with these versatile vessels.

For those keen on exploration, expedition yachts are perfect. Built tough and with advanced tech, they are designed for explorations to remote areas. Discover untouched landscapes, encounter wildlife, and make memories in the far-flung corners of the world.

Types of Yachts

Sailboats to mega-yachts – there’s a large choice of yachts. Let’s delve into the types and sizes that meet different needs.

Take a gander at the table below for an overview of yachts:

Sailing yachts are graceful and use wind power. Motor yachts are speedy and powered by engines.

Catamarans stand out with their steadiness and roominess – great for a leisurely cruise. Trawler yachts are great for long-distance trips because they’re fuel-efficient and have comfy living areas.

Adventurous souls should check out expedition yachts . Flybridge yachts have an extra deck level for entertainment and relaxation.

Sports fisher yachts are designed for fishing, with special gear and amenities.

Don’t miss out on your dream yacht – find the perfect one and go on amazing sea experiences. Start your journey now!

Sizes of Yachts

Yachts come in plenty of sizes, each with its own unique features and capabilities. To discover the perfect yacht for your needs, let us explore the sizes of yachts via a table showcasing their specifications.

Here’s what the table looks like:

Moreover, take into account that certain yachts have stability systems, others prioritize speed, and some are customized. I once met a yacht owner who wanted a retractable roof! With the help of creative builders, his dream was fulfilled and he got to enjoy a unique experience on the open seas.

Factors to Consider in Choosing the Right Yacht

Making the right yacht choice involves many key points to think about. These include size, type, budget, use and preferences, like amenities . To decide wisely, assess each factor and see how important they are. Here’s a table of the main considerations when choosing a yacht:

In addition, there are unique details you should consider, like if you plan to charter your yacht when not in use, go for a popular model. If privacy is important, choose a yacht with separate crew quarters. So, here are some tips for making the right choice:

• Get expert advice from experienced yacht brokers or naval architects.
• Choose respected brands that hold their value in case you resell.
• Visit boat shows and yacht exhibitions to explore different models and talk to professionals.

By taking all factors into account and following these suggestions, you can find the perfect yacht that fits your needs. Whether for leisure or adventure, the right yacht will give you amazing memories on the sea.

So many options! In this guide, we explore yacht types and sizes, helping you find the perfect vessel. From sailing yachts to motor yachts , each one offers a unique experience. Plus, you can customize your yacht for a truly special journey.

Let me tell you about James . He dreamed of a yacht that matched his adventurous spirit. So, he found a builder who specialized in customization. The result was amazing – a sleek motor yacht with state-of-the-art diving gear, space for fishing equipment, and luxurious comforts. On his customized vessel, James cruised beautiful coastlines and made memories that will last forever.

When you search for your yacht, remember that customization is key. You can have a tranquil sailing experience or a thrilling adventure. Dive into the ocean of possibilities – your imagination is the only limit.

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ 1: What are the different types of yachts?

There are various types of yachts, including motor yachts, sailing yachts, catamarans, trimarans, superyachts, and expedition yachts. Each type offers unique features and advantages.

FAQ 2: What is the difference between a motor yacht and a sailing yacht?

A motor yacht, as the name suggests, is powered by an engine and offers more speed and convenience. On the other hand, a sailing yacht relies on wind power and provides a traditional sailing experience with a slower pace.

FAQ 3: What is a superyacht?

A superyacht is a luxury yacht with high-end amenities and extravagant features. These yachts often offer spacious cabins, multiple decks, swimming pools, helipads, and other luxurious facilities.

FAQ 4: What is the average size of a yacht?

Yachts can vary greatly in size. The average size of a yacht ranges from 30 to 60 feet. However, larger yachts, known as superyachts, can measure over 100 feet in length.

FAQ 5: What is the advantage of a catamaran or trimaran?

Catamarans and trimarans provide more stability due to their dual or triple hull design. They offer spacious interiors, increased deck space, and enhanced fuel efficiency compared to traditional monohull yachts.

FAQ 6: What is an expedition yacht?

An expedition yacht is designed for long-range cruising and exploring remote destinations. These yachts feature robust construction, advanced navigation systems, and ample storage for supplies and equipment.

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17 Sailboat Types Explained: How To Recognize Them

Ever wondered what type of sailboat you're looking at? Identifying sailboats isn't hard, you just have to know what to look for. In this article, I'll help you.

Every time I'm around a large number of sailboats, I look around in awe (especially with the bigger ones). I recognize some, but with most of them, I'll have to ask the owner. When they answer, I try to hide my ignorance. The words don't make any sense!

So here's a complete list with pictures of the most common sailboat types today. For each of them, I'll explain exactly where the name comes from, and how you can recognize it easily.

So here's my list of popular sailboat types, explained:

Bermuda sloop, sailing hydrofoil, dutch barge, chinese junk, square-rigged tall ship, in conclusion, how to recognize any sailboat.

Before we get started, I wanted to quickly explain what you should look for when you try to identify a sailboat.

The type of sailboat is always determined by one of these four things:

• The type of hull
• The type of keel
• The number of masts
• And the type of sails and rig

The hull is the boat's body. There are basically three hull types: monohull, catamaran, and trimaran. Simply said: do I see one hull, two hulls (catamaran) or three hulls (trimaran)? Most sailboats are monohulls.

Next, there is the keel type. The keel is the underwater part of the hull. Mostly, you won't be able to see that, because it's underwater. So we'll leave that for now.

The sail plan

The last factor is the number of masts and the sail plan. The sail plan, simply put, is the number of sails, the type of sails, and how the sails are mounted to the masts (also called rigging ).

Sailboat are mostly named after the sail plan, but occasionally, a sail type is thrown in there as well.

So now we know what to pay attention to, let's go and check out some sailboats!

Dinghies are the smallest and most simple sailboats around.

They are your typical training sailboats. Small boats with an open hull, with just one mast and one sail. Perfect for learning the ways of the wind.

On average, they are between 6 and 20 ft long. Mostly sailed single-handed (solo). There's no special rigging, just the mainsail. The mainsail is commonly a Bermuda (triangular) mainsail. Dinghies have a simple rudder stick and no special equipment or rigging.

Dinghies are great for learning how to sail. The smaller the boat, the better you feel the impact of your trim and actions.

How to recognize a sailing dinghy:

• short (8ft)
• one Bermuda sail
• open hull design
• rudder stick

Common places to spot them: lakes, near docks

If you'd ask a kid to draw a sailboat, she'll most probably draw this one. The Bermuda Sloop is the most popular and most common sailboat type today. You'll definitely recognize this one.

How to recognize a Bermuda Sloop:

• triangular mainsail (called a Bermuda sail)
• a foresail (also called the jib)
• fore-and-aft rigged
• medium-sized (12 - 50 ft)

Fore-and-aft rigged just means "from front to back". This type of rigging helps to sail upwind.

Any sailboat with one mast and two sails could still be a sloop. Even if the sails are another shape or rigged in another way. For example, here's a gaff-rigged sloop (more on the gaff rig later):

If you want to learn all about sail rigs, check out my full Guide to Understanding Sail Rig Types here. It has good infographics and explains it in more detail

The Bermuda sloop has a lot of advantages over other sailboat types (which is why it's so popular):

• the Bermuda rig is very maneuverable and pretty fast in almost all conditions
• it's really versatile
• you can sail it by yourself without any problems
• it's a simple setup

Common places to spot a sloop: everywhere. Smaller sloops are more common for inland waters, rivers, and lakes. Medium-sized and large sloops are very popular cruising boats.

Cutters have one mast but three or more sails. Most cutters are Bermuda rigged, which means they look a lot like sloops.

How to recognize a cutter:

• looks like a sloop
• two or more headsails instead of one
• commonly one mast
• sometimes an extra mast with mainsail

Cutters have more sail area, which makes them faster, but also harder to sail single-handed. There's also more strain on the mast and rigging.

Common places to spot a cutter: everywhere. Cutters are very popular for cruising.

They mostly have a Bermuda rig, which means triangular sails. But there are also gaff cutters and naval cutters, and some have two masts.

Here's an example of a two-masted naval cutter with an extra gaff mainsail and top gaff:

The Hydrofoil is a pretty new sailboat design. It's a racing sailboat with thin wing foils under the hull. These lift up the hull, out of the water, reducing the displacement to nearly zero. The foils create downforce and keep it from lifting off entirely.

This makes the hydrofoil extremely fast and also impressive.

The hydrofoil refers to the keel type. There are both monohull and multihull hydrofoils.

How to recognize a hydrofoil:

• it flies above the waterline and has small fins

Common places to spot a hydrofoil: at racing events

Famous catamaran: La Vagabonde from Sailing La Vagabonde

A catamaran is a type of cruising and racing multihull sailboat with two hulls. The hulls are always the same size.

Most catamarans have a standard Bermuda rig. The catamaran refers to the hull, so it can have any number of masts, sails, sail types and rig type.

How to recognize a catamaran:

• any boat with two hulls is called a catamaran

Common places to spot catamarans: coastal waters, The Caribbean, shallow reefs

The advantages of a catamaran: Catamarans heel less than monohulls and are more buoyant. Because of the double hull, they don't need as deep a keel to be stable. They have a smaller displacement, making them faster. They also have a very shallow draft. That's why catamarans are so popular in the Caribbean, where there's lots of shallow water.

Catamarans are nearly impossible to capsize:

"Compared with a monohull, a cruising catamaran sailboat has a high initial resistance to heeling and capsize—a fifty-footer requires four times the force to initiate a capsize than an equivalent monohull." Source: Wikipedia

How to recognize a trimaran:

• any boat with three hulls is called a trimaran

Trimarans have three hulls, so it's a multi-hull design. It's mostly a regular monohull with two smaller hulls or floaters on the sides. Some trimarans can be trailered by winching in the auxiliary hulls, like this:

This makes them very suitable for long-term cruising, but also for regular docking. This is great for crowded areas and small berths, like in the Mediterranean. It sure is more cost-effective than the catamaran (but you also don't have the extra storage and living space!).

Common places to spot Trimarans: mostly popular for long-term cruising, you'll find the trimaran in coastal areas.

Gaffer refers to gaff-rigged, which is the way the sails are rigged. A gaff rig is a rectangular sail with a top pole, or 'spar', which attaches it to the mast. This pole is called the 'gaff'. To hoist the mainsail, you hoist this top spar with a separate halyard. Most gaffers carry additional gaff topsails as well.

Gaff rigs are a bit less versatile than sloops. Because of the gaff, they can have a larger sail area. So they will perform better with downwind points of sail. Upwind, however, they handle less well.

How to recognize a gaffer:

• sail is rectangular
• mainsail has a top pole (or spar)

Since a gaffer refers to the rig type, and not the mast configuration or keel type, all sailboats with this kind of rigging can be called 'gaffers'.

Common places to spot a gaffer: Gaffers are popular inland sailboats. It's a more traditional rig, being used recreationally.

Schooners used to be extremely popular before sloops took over. Schooners are easy to sail but slower than sloops. They handle better than sloops in all comfortable (cruising) points of sail, except for upwind.

How to recognize a schooner:

• mostly two masts
• smaller mast in front
• taller mast in the back
• fore-and-aft rigged sails
• gaff-rigged mainsails (spar on top of the sail)

Common places to spot a schooner: coastal marinas, bays

How to recognize a ketch:

• medium-sized (30 ft and up)
• smaller mast in back
• taller mast in front
• both masts have a mainsail

The ketch refers to the sail plan (mast configuration and type of rig). Ketches actually handle really well. The back mast (mizzenmast) powers the hull, giving the skipper more control. Because of the extra mainsail, the ketch has shorter masts. This means less stress on masts and rigging, and less heel.

Common places to spot a ketch: larger marinas, coastal regions

How to recognize a yawl:

• main mast in front
• much smaller mast in the back
• back mast doesn't carry a mainsail

The aft mast is called a mizzenmast. Most ketches are gaff-rigged, so they have a spar at the top of the sail. They sometimes carry gaff topsails. They are harder to sail than sloops.

The yawl refers to the sail plan (mast configuration and type of rig).

Common places to spot a yawl: they are not as popular as sloops, and most yawls are vintage sailboat models. You'll find most being used as daysailers on lakes and in bays.

Dutch Barges are very traditional cargo ships for inland waters. My hometown is literally littered with a very well-known type of barge, the Skutsje. This is a Frisian design with leeboards.

Skutsjes don't have a keel but use leeboards for stability instead, which are the 'swords' or boards on the side of the hull.

How to recognize a Dutch Barge:

• most barges have one or two masts
• large, wooden masts
• leeboards (wooden wings on the side of the hull)
• mostly gaff-rigged sails (pole on top of the sail, attached to mast)
• a ducktail transom

The clipper is one of the latest sailboat designs before steam-powered vessels took over. The cutter has a large cargo area for transporting cargo. But they also needed to be fast to compete with steam vessels. It's a large, yet surprisingly fast sailboat model, and is known for its good handling.

This made them good for trade, especially transporting valuable goods like tea or spices.

How to recognize a Clipper:

• mostly three masts
• square-rigged sails
• narrow but long, steel hull

Common places to spot a clipper: inland waters, used as houseboats, but coastal waters as well. There are a lot of clippers on the Frisian Lakes and Waddenzee in The Netherlands (where I live).

This particular junk is Satu, from the Chesapeake Bay Area.

The Chinese Junk is an ancient type of sailboat. Junks were used to sail to Indonesia and India from the start of the Middle Ages onward (500 AD). The word junk supposedly comes from the Chinese word 'jung', meaning 'floating house'.

How to recognize a Chinese junk:

• medium-sized (30 - 50 ft)
• large, flat sails with full-length battens
• stern (back of the hull) opens up in a high deck
• mostly two masts (sometimes one)
• with two mainsails, sails are traditionally maroon
• lug-rigged sails

The junk has a large sail area. The full-length battens make sure the sails stay flat. It's one of the flattest sails around, which makes it good for downwind courses. This also comes at a cost: the junk doesn't sail as well upwind.

The cat rig is a sail plan with most commonly just one mast and one sail, the mainsail.

Most sailing dinghies are cats, but there are also larger boats with this type of sail plan. The picture above is a great example.

How to recognize a cat rig:

• smaller boats
• mostly one mast
• one sail per mast
• no standing rigging

Cat-rigged refers to the rigging, not the mast configuration or sail type. So you can have cats with a Bermuda sail (called a Bermuda Cat) or gaff-rigged sail (called a Gaff Cat), and so on. There are also Cat Ketches and Cat Schooners, for example. These have two masts.

The important thing to know is: cats have one sail per mast and no standing rigging .

Most typical place to spot Cats: lakes and inland waters

Famous brig: HMS Beagle (Charles Darwin's ship)

A brig was a very popular type of small warship of the U.S. navy during the 19th century. They were used in the American Revolution and other wars with the United Kingdom. They carry 10-18 guns and are relatively fast and maneuverable. They required less crew than a square-rigged ship.

How to recognize a brig:

• square-rigged foremast
• mainmast square-rigged or square-rigged and gaff-rigged

How to recognize a tall ship:

• three or four masts
• square sails with a pole across the top
• multiple square sails on each mast
• a lot of lines and rigging

Square-rigged ships, or tall ships, are what we think of when we think of pirate ships. Now, most pirate ships weren't actually tall ships, but they come from around the same period. They used to be built from wood, but more modern tall ships are nearly always steel.

Tall ships have three or four masts and square sails which are square-rigged. That means they are attached to the masts with yards.

We have the tall ship races every four years, where dozens of tall ships meet and race just offshore.

Most common place to spot Tall Ships: Museums, special events, open ocean

This is a bonus type since it is not very common anymore. As far as I know, there's only one left.

The Trabaccolo is a small cargo ship used in the Adriatic Sea. It has lug sails. A lug rig is a rectangular sail, but on a long pole or yard that runs fore-and-aft. It was a popular Venetian sailboat used for trade.

The name comes from the Italian word trabacca , which means tent, referring to the sails.

How to recognize a Trabaccolo:

• wide and short hull
• sails look like a tent

Most common place to spot Trabaccolo's: the Marine Museum of Cesenatico has a fully restored Trabaccolo.

So, there you have it. Now you know what to look for, and how to recognize the most common sailboat types easily. Next time you encounter a magnificent sailboat, you'll know what it's called - or where to find out quickly.

I loved this article. I had no idea there were so many kinds of sailboats.

i have a large sailing boat about 28ft. that im having a difficult time identifying. it was my fathers & unfortunately hes passed away now. any helpful information would be appreciated.

Jorge Eusali Castro Archbold

I find a saleboat boat but i can find the módem…os registré out off bru’x, and the saleboat name is TADCOZ, can you tell me who to go about this matter in getting info.thank con voz your time…

Leave a comment

You may also like, guide to understanding sail rig types (with pictures).

There are a lot of different sail rig types and it can be difficult to remember what's what. So I've come up with a system. Let me explain it in this article.

The Ultimate Guide to Sail Types and Rigs (with Pictures)

How Much Sailboats Cost On Average (380+ Prices Compared)

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11 Different Types of Yachts

Posted on Published: April 13, 2022  - Last updated: June 13, 2022

The Dutch navy first used the yacht in order to catch pirates . Until the 1950s, the primary materials used for building a yacht was wood. Today, yachts of all types and sizes are constructed of various materials including steel, aluminum, plywood , and veneers.

When Charles II used it for his own personal use, the yacht became a luxury boat often owned by important people all over the world. As a result, yachts are often associated with luxury . According to UBS and Wealth-X’s annual World Ultra Wealth Report for 2014, the world’s super-rich spends the most on their yachts at $22 billion a year.

Related: Floating Home Ideas | Types of Houseboats | Kayak Storage Ideas | Parts of a Boat Trailer

Sailing Yacht

The sailing yacht is one of the most traditional types of yachts that people purchase. When people want to be able to go out on the water and have a classic sailing adventure, owning a sailing yacht is going to be able to make that happen. These types of yachts are sailed with traditional sails, which can be quite challenging if you don’t know what you are doing. Sailing a ship using only the wind and your sails is a very interesting experience.

The fact that it is challenging and that it replicates the old way of doing things is precisely what is so appealing about sailing yachts. People who are very into sailing will absolutely adore owning one of these yachts. There are a few different types of sailing yachts that you will be able to choose from, as well. The traditional ones will only have sails to hoist and will not feature a motor.

You will also be able to purchase hybrid yachts that are primarily meant for sailing, but they also feature a motor. This can be very handy to have in case of an emergency. Being able to use the motor when you need to can be very convenient. If you run into issues with your sails or bad weather, it can be beneficial to be able to get back to port as quickly as possible.

There are also yachts that have sails, but they also have modern instruments to make navigation and sailing easier. You will be able to find a sailing yacht that will suit your tastes. Just think about what type of experience you want to have. Once you have looked over all of your options, you should come across the perfect sailing yacht for your journey.

Expedition Yacht

An expedition yacht isn’t the type of vessel that most people will purchase for random pleasure weekends. They would work just fine for those purposes, of course, but they are really meant for longer journeys. These yachts are capable of sailing for really long periods of time while remaining self-sufficient. This is crucial for people who are planning long sea voyages around the globe.

Expedition yachts are incredibly powerful, and if you ever get the chance to sail on one, you will be very impressed with it. These ships are capable of sailing very efficiently, as well. They make good use of the resources available in order to complete long journeys without any hassle. Vessels like this make it simple for people to stay out at sea for long periods of time without being inconvenienced.

One of the advantages of taking an expedition yacht on such a long journey is that you won’t have to sacrifice your comforts in any way. These yachts can be loaded up with everything that you need to stay entertained and happy on a long voyage. These luxury ships are able to combine efficiency and practicality with all of the luxuries that you enjoy. Some of the expedition yachts are so lavish that it isn’t unlike staying in a luxury hotel.

People use these expedition yachts to go all over the world. When someone wants to go on a journey to a faraway place in style, taking an expedition yacht is going to be one of the best options. These yachts are very pricey, and most people will not be able to afford them. A lavish expedition yacht is going to be even more expensive than most of the other yachts on this list.

Motor Yacht

A motor yacht is a modern version of the sailing yachts that everyone knows and loves. These types of yachts are among the most common. They are very nice to use for parties and even just casual getaways. People often charter these motor yachts for special occasions in order to have a really good time.

When most people think of a yacht, they think about some type of party ship. Many companies that charter out vessels such as these use them for upscale parties. These ships are just the right size to be able to host a fairly sizeable group. You will be able to have a fantastic time if you have a special event out on the water in one of these motor yachts.

Yachts like these usually include all sorts of fun things for people to enjoy. It isn’t uncommon for these yachts to have hot tubs, dance floors, bars, and even swimming pools. If you want to make your next birthday party truly special, then chartering a motor yacht may be your best bet. It can certainly help you to create some fantastic memories.

These motor yachts can be good for helping you to take a vacation, as well. Those who own these types of yachts will use them to sail to different destinations. They may not be well-suited to travel to certain places in the world depending on the type of hull that it has. Simply take all of the important factors into account before planning a voyage with your new motor yacht, and you will always have a great time.

Classic Yacht

Classic yachts are generally considered to be yachts that were built in the past. Some people have different definition and standards for what makes a yacht a classic. The older the yacht is, the more likely it is to be considered a classic yacht. There are yachts that were built in the 1920’s that are still being used as recreational vessels in the modern era.

People who own certain yachts from the 1970’s also consider their ships to be classics. The basics that you need to understand are actually fairly simple . A classic yacht has a certain feeling to it that you don’t get when you sail on a modern ship. These vessels are sometimes made mostly out of wood, and other classic yachts are made out of steel.

Many of these classic yachts were completely handcrafted. There is speculation that the handcrafted nature of these yachts is what ultimately gives them their charm. Whatever your feelings on the issue are, it is undeniable that the older style of yachts can be very appealing. These ships have a very interesting aura and seem to exude a classic sense of luxury.

Sometimes the interiors of these classic yachts will be kept the same as they were in the year that it was made. This can lead to some interesting design choices that may not mesh well with modern sensibilities. Regardless, if you want to get the full experience of the classic yacht, keeping things as they once did have some merit. If you want to get a feeling for what yachting was like in the past, then chartering a classic yacht can be a very intriguing experience.

Fishing Yacht

If you want to go on a fishing trip for your vacation, then you may want to consider doing so on a fishing yacht. There are yachts that are specifically designed for the purpose of fishing. Fishing is one of the oldest traditions that humanity has. So many people enjoy fishing for recreational purposes and being able to do so on a luxurious yacht is really something else.

There are yachts that are used for more casual fishing trips. You will also find that people use sports fishing yachts to go on fantastic fishing adventures. Sometimes people will use yachts to go to interesting places in the world where the fishing is said to be particularly noteworthy. Wherever you decide to take a fishing yacht will be interesting due to how fun these ships are to use.

You’ll have the normal luxuries that you will want to make use of in any yacht. These yachts can still be a great deal of fun for anyone who wants to have a party. The added benefit is that the deck of the ship is designed in a way that is conducive to fishing. You’ll be able to access the waters properly and will potentially be able to haul in some truly impressive catches.

The yacht will have plenty of room for all of your fishing gear, as well. When people charter a fishing yacht, it will sometimes come with all of the gear that you will need. You should check with the owners ahead of time so that you will know what you need to bring with you. If you’re a true fisherman, then you will definitely want to purchase one of these for yourself if possible.

Gulet Yacht

The Gulet yacht is something that originally comes from Turkey. This yacht is interesting because it can feature two or more masts. In the past, these vessels were used to transport goods. They are very worthy vessels that were originally designed to keep cargo safe from harm during transport.

Modern Gulet yachts are used more for pleasure. They are sought-after because of their beautiful wooden hulls. These hulls can be very ornate while still being practical and safe. People who appreciate the beauty of a finely- crafted ship will love owning one of these Gulet yachts.

This is an incredibly stable ship to sail in too. If you want to sail on a ship that is going to feel as natural as possible, then a Gulet yacht is a good choice to make. It is very sturdy and will be completely capable of getting you to your destination safely using only the wind in its sails. Modern Gulet yachts will also be equipped with motors, in most cases.

Gulet yachts are becoming more and more popular. People are starting to charter these yachts more frequently, and many yacht enthusiasts are pining to add a Gulet yacht to their fleet. The beauty of the ship combined with its fantastic capabilities makes it easy to see why it is so sought-after. These yachts are truly exceptional, and you will want to experience one first-hand when you get the chance.

If you don’t know a whole lot about ships, then you might see a catamaran yacht and wonder exactly what it is. A catamaran yacht is a vessel that has more than one hull. A design featuring two hulls can be ideal for certain situations. These yachts are very interesting from a visual perspective, and many of the design choices are quite fun.

Many catamaran yachts will have more room than a traditional yacht. This means that people will have more space to spread out, and it can be even more fun for parties. The overall layout of these catamaran yachts lends itself well to being a party vessel. This makes catamaran yachts among the most popular chartered ships each year.

Of course, there are different styles of catamaran yachts that you will be able to choose from. You will find that there are catamaran yachts with traditional sails and ones that feature a motor. Both of these types are actually fairly common, and sometimes a catamaran will feature both. The type of catamaran that you will want to charter will largely depend on your intentions for your excursion.

The interior of the yacht will typically be very stylish to accommodate the needs of its guests. This is definitely a luxury vessel through and through. No matter what style of catamaran you decide to go with, you will have an excellent time. It’s a good vessel to choose for those who get seasick, as well, since the increased hull space makes things feel less cramped.

Cruisers are yachts that are typically used for taking a small group out to have some fun. Unlike some of the incredibly large yachts listed earlier, cruisers can be a bit smaller inside. There are also large yachts that are classified as cruisers, but generally, you will be using cruisers for small recreational trips. If you want to go out on the water to have some fun with your closest friends, then owning a cruiser is going to be perfect for your needs.

These types of yachts are great when you want to be able to have some versatility. You will easily be able to access the water when you’re sailing a cruiser. This makes them perfect for those that want to go out fishing or even swimming in the ocean. You will be able to get where you need to go and will have a good time once you get there.

Yachts like these are typically a bit shorter than most of the other yachts featured here. Some of the fishing yachts will be around the same length. A cruiser may be between 30-feet and 60-feet long, although there are plenty of variances. Regardless of the size, it is still a great ship to own, and the fact that it is not overly long can be an advantage in some ways.

These are fun yachts that will be the perfect purchase for a first-time yacht owner. You can make a lot of fantastic memories when you have a vessel like this to use. The ship is generally very easy to handle, too, so it’s great for a newcomer to own for that reason. The cost of a nice cruiser is going to be agreeable as well, as it isn’t quite as costly as many of the other yachts that have been featured so far.

There are those who think of cruisers are more similar to speedboats. It is true that there are similarities between cruiser yachts and speedboats, but this is definitely distinct enough to be considered to be its own thing. You’ll be able to enjoy this cruiser yacht to its full potential without much worry. Whether you want to enjoy a romantic getaway or you are looking forward to a little party with your closest friends, you’ll love owning a cruiser yacht.

The flybridge design is very interesting because it will allow you to go fishing very easily. This is one of the most popular styles for fishing yachts. It makes accessing the water easier than it would otherwise be. You’ll be able to have a great view out onto the water and will have an easy time fishing.

There are some occasions where a motor yacht will also have a flybridge. Even so, this style is most closely associated with fishing yachts. It just works so well for that purpose that it makes sense overall. You’ll be able to have a really good fishing trip if you choose a yacht in this style.

The large cockpit is one of the standout features of a flybridge style yacht. It makes it simple to haul in the fish in comparison to other styles. You’ll also have enough visual range to be able to spot your lines and other important things. If you want to have a nice fishing vacation with your friends, then chartering this type of yacht is highly recommended.

You’ll be able to enjoy the overall power of these types of ships, as well. They are designed to be able to handle rough weather well and will be able to get you back home fast when you need to leave. You’ll have nothing to worry about when you charter a nice yacht like this. It’ll be a good experience so long as the fish are biting.

Tri-deck yachts can really be quite impressive to see up close. Multi-level yachts aren’t too uncommon, but when you have a three-leveled deck , it can be a sight to behold. These yachts are really interesting to sail on, and you will often see tri-deck designs on luxury cruisers. They will give passengers a lot of space to enjoy themselves.

Tri-deck style yachts are really common on vessels that are meant for upscale vacations or parties. Giving guests enough room to have a lot of fun is important. These yachts will often have plenty of interesting recreational facilities. You might even find a tri-deck yacht with multiple lavish swimming pools or something like a tennis court.

Owning a large yacht like this will require quite a large investment. When you want to be able to have the best, you’re going to need to be able to pay for it. Even so, these yachts are well worth the high asking price. They’re excellent for recreational purposes and will always be able to help you have a good time.

The sheer amount of enclosed living space available on a yacht of this type is impressive. You’ll be able to host many people on a yacht of this size. This makes hosting corporate parties on yachts such as these very popular. It can be a great vessel to own when you want to seal the deal on an important business deal.

Having a sky lounge on your yacht can potentially be a lot of fun. A sky lounge will generally be located at the top of the yacht. This design features windows that can open in order to feel the cool air. This is a completely livable space, though, making it a fun room to stay in when you’re spending time on the yacht.

The view from the sky lounge is usually quite gorgeous . Most of the yachts that feature a sky lounge design will ensure that this room has all of the amenities that you would expect. It will be climate controlled and will be perfect to stay the night in. People often enjoy spending time in the sky lounge with their significant other due to the romantic qualities that it has.

Some of these sky lounges may even have sunroofs. This can be really nice when you want to be able to look up at the stars at night. It’s a really neat feature to have on your yacht, so you will want to keep it in mind. It isn’t the most common yacht feature but you should be able to find a fantastic vessel that has a sky lounge for you to enjoy without too much of a hassle.

If you find a nice yacht to charter that has a sky lounge, then it will definitely be worth your while to enjoy it. Yachts with this convenient feature will always be sought-after. It can help to make an already romantic situation even more so. You’ll love the atmosphere that the sky lounge can provide you.

Yacht Types and Sizes

Which yacht types and sizes exist in the world.

Are you curious which yacht types and sizes exist in the world? Spoiler: there are plenty!

In this article, we explore different types of yachts, such as motor yachts, sailing yachts, catamarans and trimarans.

We talk about their unique features, advantages and disadvantages.

We also cover the difference between serial, semi-custom and custom yachts and see which one is right for you. 

Finally, we learn about how yacht size is measured and how it affects overall yacht volume and operations.

Let’s get started! 

YACHT TYPES

If you consider buying a yacht, you need to decide on its type.

Which yacht type do you prefer: motor yachts, sailing yachts or catamarans?

These three categories are the most popular types of yachts, although there are also other ones.

Let’s look at each of them separately.

Yacht Types: Motor Yachts

Motor yacht is the most common type of a superyacht. Around 80% of world’s yachts are motor yachts.

These luxury boats are powered by strong engines, do not have sails and over time have become symbol of a classy and laid-back lifestyle.  

Pros of Motor Yachts: 

• Powerful and fast 
• Greater technological advances 
• Greater deck space, more living volume 
• Easier to find suitable crew members 
• Easier to operate than a sailing yacht 
• Easier to host guests of all personalities 

Contras of Motor Yachts:

• Less sustainable, higher fuel consumption 
• Less adventurous feel (if you are looking for it) 
• Shorter range (can only be powered by motor) 
• Engine noise 

Motor yacht is probably the first thing which comes to your mind when you think superyachts.

Classy and sleek design, plenty of deck space, comfortable staterooms and lots of entertainment options – all this you can find aboard a motor yacht.

Motor yachts come in different types and sizes and with different purposes. The latest trend is explorer motor yachts, which are explicitly equipped for cruising in cold polar regions.  

Yacht Types: Sailing Yachts

Sailing yachts are the second most popular yacht type. If you love the wind and want that classy sporty feel while aboard, then a sailing yacht is the right yacht type for you.

Another advantage is that when not powered by motor, sailing yachts are very quiet. It is only the sound of waves and wind (and an occasional seagull) around you.   

Pros of Sailing Yachts: 

• Unique feel of adventure 
• Can combine peaceful cruise with racing  
• Very quiet when powered by sail  
• Lower fuel consumption 
• Lower maintenance cost 
• Can sail in shallower waters  

Contras of Sailing Yachts: 

• Tend to be slower that motor yachts (in case you like speed) 
• Less stabilization  
• Smaller cabin space 
• Might have less lifestyle equipment available (Jacuzzi, gym, cinema) … 

There are only two types of people out there: sailing yacht fans and motor yacht fans. Rivalry between fans of the two yacht types has become legendary.

Probably, you already know which group you belong to. Nevertheless, we still recommend you charter both sailing and motor yachts to be sure you are making the right choice. If you are still unsure, read about the third yacht type below. 

Yacht Types: Catamarans  

Catamaran is defined as a vessel with two parallel hulls which are joined together. Due to its form, catamaran is the most stable of all yacht types.

If you are looking for stability and comfort, or have family members who easily get seasick, buying a catamaran is a valid option to consider. 

Pros of Catamarans: 

• More fuel efficient & sustainable 
• More stability  
• Can be used in shallow waters 

Contras of Catamarans: 

• Less volume for staterooms 
• Higher dockage rates than for a monohull 
• Different sailing feeling compared to a sailing boat 

Catamarans offer a great opportunity for taking family vacations, which will leave every family member happy. Since they are more difficult to sink, they are also considered the safest boats.

If you are looking for extra stability, comfort and space, but also do not want to compromise on adventures and possibility to explore shallow waters, catamaran is right yacht type for you. 

Yacht Types: Trimarans 

Big brother of a catamaran, a trimaran, has even three hulls – one main hull in the center, and two smaller hulls on each side.

You will not see them as often, but there are certainly also big fans of trimarans out there. Trimarans are designed for racing or leisure but are also widely used for military and shipping purposes. 

YACHT PRODUCTION TYPES: SERIAL, SEMI -CUSTOM, CUSTOM YACHTS

Now that we’ve covered yacht types, let’s investigate which production options are out there. Unlike the automotive industry where most of the car models come from production lines, the yachting world offers future owners more possibilities.  

SERIALS YACHTS 

This is the most common and less expensive way to get to your new dream boat. Serial or production yachts are yacht models which are produced by shipyards in various quantities based on model and size.

Serial does not mean that you cannot tune it to your taste though. Manufacturers offer different sets of modifications with certain yacht models. You will likely get to choose between several layout models and different equipment options.

Obviously, if you order a newly build yacht, you are likely to get more space for your improvements, than if you decide to refit an already existing yacht. 

SEMI-CUSTOM YACHTS  

A good way for owners who wish more character and comfort to their boats but at the same time do not want to order a fully customized vessel, is to order a semi-custom yacht.

Semi-custom yachts stand between serial and fully customized boats. You save a lot of time and effort by picking an existing engineered platform from which to start planning.

Then, together with experienced naval architects and designers, you enhance it up to your expectations by customizing layout (possibly including superstructure) and interiors.

Ordering a semi-custom yacht gives you more freedom to decide how your yacht will look like. Construction time is also much shorter in comparison with a fully customized yacht, since many parts are already designed, engineered and possibly even pre-built.

By ordering a semi-custom yacht, you can shorten construction time from two – three years up to several months!

Shipyards are also less likely to fall behind the delivery schedule, since they have produced similar yachts before and know which time is needed for delivery.

Most semi-custom yachts are designed to suite majority of potential future owners, which means that layout, size, engineering etc will be well thought-through in advance.

Due to extensive previous testing & refining of semi-custom hulls by the shipyard, it is possible that your new yacht will turn out more reliable and problem-free than a fully customized yacht. 

CUSTOM YACHTS 

If you wish to be unlike anybody else and want to take your dream a step further, a fully custom-built yacht is exactly what you need.

Almost anything is possible and achievable in today’s superyacht building industry. The only considerations are your budget and international safety and security standards, more on which you can read in our article on Safety and Security Onboard Superyachts. 

With a custom-made yacht, you can be sure you will get exactly the boat you want, tailored just for your preferences, no other yacht in the world being similar.

Consider longer delivery time and substantially higher cost, since R&D expenses are not shared between yachts of the same series.

Many owners buy a smaller replacement yacht, while they are waiting for their customized dream boat to leave the docks. 

A fully customized superyacht is surely the most exclusive type of a yacht one can own.

Yacht Sizes

Now let’s look at different yacht sizes. But first, let’s find out what yacht size actually is.

How is yacht size measured?

Length Overall (LOA) is the most widely used metrics of yacht length. It is measured from the aftmost tip of the hull to the furthermost point of the stem, measured parallel to the waterline. It is probably the only yacht length definition you need to know as an owner.  

*For yachting geeks out there, here are other yacht size definitions used in the industry:

Length of Deck (LOD) : deck length excluding bow sprits and other projections. Makes particular sense for sailing boats, since their Length Overall can considerably vary from their Length of Deck.

Length of Hull (LH or LOH): Length of hull including fixed fendering but excluding any bow sprits. It can be shorter than LOA.

Length of Waterline (LWL): length of a boat at the level where the boat sits in the water.

Interesting fact: Did you know that with each additional 1 meter of length, the internal volume of a yacht increases by 6-7 cubic meters? A 40-meter yacht is not just twice longer than its 20-meter companion. According to Cube Law, it is also 6-7 times larger in volume!  

Motor yacht sizes by group

Let’s look at different sizes of motor yachts. To make things easier, we divided them into 4 groups.  

Please note that the following crew and guest numbers per yacht size are only approximate.  

Factual crew numbers will depend on specific yacht length, cruising style, owner preferences and whether the yacht charters or not.

Factual guest numbers will depend on yacht registration type, especially with larger yachts.

22 – 40 meter motor yachts

Motor yachts in of this size are most likely serial production yachts. This means that you can buy a specific yacht model which has been designed before, and choose your own details, such as finishings and furniture.

Yachts of this size will need 4-6 crew members: yacht captain, one or two deckhands, one or two stewardesses, a yacht chef, and presumably an engineer.

22-40 meter long motor yachts normally can host up to 8 guests.

40-60 meter motor yachts

Motor boats of 40 meters length and larger are considered superyachts also within circles of superyacht industry professionals.  

This is where operations and crew requirements become considerably more sophisticated. There are also more semi-custom and custom boats in this size segment.

A 40-50 meter motor boat will require a crew of approximately 9-13 crew members, depending on specific owner requirements and cruising / charter preferences.  

A possible crew setup would be: yacht captain, first officer, bosun, two engineers, three or two stewardesses, two deckhands, one or two chefs (often a guest and a crew chef).

Crew of a 60 meter motor yacht will count around 20 members.

40-60 meter long motor yachts normally can host up to 12 guests.

60 – 80 meter motor yachts

Here the yachts grow much larger, and so do the costs of maintenance.

A yacht of 60 meters length will have a crew of 20-23 members. A yacht of 80 meters length can have a crew of up to 80 members.

The maximum number of guests will depend on yacht registration type. Many owners choose to keep maximum of 12 guests, since it allows for a simpler regulation regime.

80 – 180 meter motor yachts

A 100 meter motor yacht will require 80-100 members crew. Its tonnage will exceed 500 GT, which means that the yacht will fall under more regulations: STCW, SOLAS, ISSC, ISM and others.

A 170 meter motor yacht can have up to 100 crew members.

The largest yacht worldwide at the time of writing is Azzam, at 180 meters built by Lürssen. Azzam can host 36 guests and a least 80 crew.

Maximum guest number on a yacht of this size can still be only 12 guests. But if the yacht is registered as a passage vessel, it can be significantly more.

How does yacht size affect my yachting experience?

Size does matter after all.

Let’s look at factors that change with the growing size of a yacht.

While thinking of upgrading to a bigger vessel, do not forget that as the yacht size grows, following factors also increase: 

• Yacht price 
• Availability and price of marina dockage 
• Fuel consumption 
• Number of full-time crew members 
• Time you can spend away from ports 
• Quantity of water and other supplies the yacht can carry 
• Functionality and entertainment options 
• Complexity of repairs  
• Applicability of laws & regulations 
• Time needed to sell the yacht  

Budget is the main factor which determines how big your boat can be. To learn more about the cost of yacht ownership, read this article.

During the past decade, superyachts increased in size dramatically, and this trend continues. According  to an article  by Boat International, there has been around 10.000 yachts over 24-meter LOA in the world. Around 80% of them were motor yachts.

Most of the owners start small and upgrade their boats over years. Once you owned a smaller yacht for some time, you will understand exactly what you love about it.

Also, you will know what you want to improve. So why not initiate a new-build of a new more exciting and possibly larger boat? You can still have the older yacht at your disposal, while waiting for the new delivery.  

SUMMARY: YACHT TYPES AND SIZES

In this article, we classified all yachts into 3 main types: motor yachts, sailing yachts & catamarans. We also discussed their pros & contras.

We explained the difference between serial production, semi-custom and custom yachts.

Finally, we learned how yacht size is measured and how it affects various aspects of yacht operations. We looked at crew and guest numbers for each yacht size.

Another important factor to consider is whether you want to commission a new-built yacht or buy a second hand one . More on this in our next article .   

Drop us an email if you need help with choosing a yacht or booking a yacht charter. We will define your needs and find the best solution together.

Are you a motor yacht, sailing yacht, or catamaran fan?  

Comment below! 

Article by Olympiada Wohlin-Elkovsky from Yachtowner.co

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Types of Yachts: Your Quick Guide to Luxury Sailing

Drew Redding

Yachting is a popular luxury and pastime activity for many people, who enjoy the thrill and relaxation of sailing on open waters. A yacht is defined as a sailing or power vessel used for pleasure, cruising, or racing, with most featuring a cabin designed for overnight use.

There are several types of yachts available, each offering unique features and experiences for their users. Some are crafted for speed and performance, while others prioritize comfort and space to accommodate larger groups of people. From sleek and streamlined vessels to lavish floating homes, the diverse yacht options cater to the varied preferences and needs of sailing enthusiasts.

In this article, we will explore more about these different types of yachts, their designs, and functionalities, as well as the ideal situations for each type. So whether you’re new to yachting or an experienced sailor, you’re sure to discover some fascinating insights about these exceptional watercraft.

Yacht Sizes

Small Yachts

Small yachts typically range from 20 to 40 feet (6 to 12 meters) in length. They are perfect for day trips and weekend getaways with a smaller group of people. The interiors usually have limited amenities but still provide a cozy and enjoyable experience while cruising through the water.

Medium Yachts

At 40 to 70 feet (12 to 21 meters) in length, medium yachts offer more space and additional features compared to small yachts. They often include:

• Multiple sleeping cabins
• Full-service galley
• Outdoor lounging and dining areas

These yachts allow for extended cruises and accommodate larger groups, making them perfect for entertaining friends and family.

Large Yachts

Large yachts range from 70 to 120 feet (21 to 36 meters) in length and provide a luxurious experience. Key features include:

• Spacious saloons
• Multiple decks
• State-of-the-art technology

These yachts are ideal for those who prioritize comfort, offering extended living spaces and stunning interior designs for a truly memorable adventure at sea.

Superyachts

Measuring over 120 feet (36 meters) in length, superyachts are the pinnacle of luxury. Some impressive amenities commonly found in superyachts are:

• Swimming pools

With their incredible size and versatility, superyachts are perfect for lavish events or long, indulgent trips around the world. You can learn more about these remarkable vessels in this list of motor yachts by length .

Yacht Categories

Sailing yachts.

Sailing yachts are powered by the wind, using sails to catch it. They offer a more traditional experience and are popular among enthusiasts. Some of these yachts have on-board motors as well for additional maneuverability, like the ones in this list of sailing boat types .

Motor Yachts

Motor yachts rely on engines for propulsion, offering a faster and more stable experience. They often come with luxurious amenities and are perfect for leisure cruises or entertaining guests. Some motor yachts also have sails to supplement their engines, providing additional flexibility.

Multihull yachts include catamarans and trimarans, characterized by their two or three hulls. They are known for their stability, speed, and spacious interiors. Multihulls are suitable for different purposes, such as racing or cruising, as demonstrated by this catamaran rescue story .

Yacht Material and Construction

Fiberglass is a popular material for yacht construction due to its lightweight and strong properties. It is made by combining glass fibers with resin, creating a low-maintenance and durable material . Many modern yachts are made from fiberglass because it is easy to mold into different shapes and has excellent resistance to water damage.

Aluminum is another common material used in yacht construction. It is lightweight, strong, and resistant to corrosion, making it ideal for building hulls . Despite its higher cost compared to fiberglass, aluminum offers advantages such as a longer lifespan and easier repairs.

Steel is known for its strength and durability, making it an excellent choice for yacht construction, especially for larger vessels. It comes in various grades, with high-tensile and special-treatment types being the most widely used for hull structures. However, steel requires more maintenance than other materials, such as regular painting and rust prevention.

Traditional wooden yachts have a timeless charm and appeal. Wood is a natural and renewable resource, making it an eco-friendly option for yacht building. However, wooden boats require more maintenance compared to their counterparts made from modern materials like fiberglass. This includes regular inspections, varnishing, and repairs to keep the wood in top condition.

Yacht Functions

Racing yachts.

Racing yachts are designed for speed and performance, featuring lightweight construction and advanced sail plans. They often participate in exciting regattas and competitions around the world. These boats are typically maneuvered by skilled crews who work together to optimize their yacht’s speed and agility.

Cruising Yachts

Cruising yachts, the choice of many sailing enthusiasts, prioritize comfort and ease of handling. They are intended for extended voyages, with spacious cabins, well-equipped galleys, and ample storage for provisions. Upgrades like autopilots and integrated navigation systems help make long-distance sailing more accessible to a wider range of sailors.

Charter Yachts

Available for rental, charter yachts offer a luxurious experience for guests seeking a vacation on the water. Ranging from small skippered boats to large crewed vessels, these yachts provide all the amenities needed for a blissful and memorable getaway. Many charters include experienced crews, taking care of navigation, catering, and guest services.

Expedition Yachts

Expedition yachts cater to adventurous souls looking to explore remote destinations. Built with robust materials and designed for long-range cruising, these vessels can withstand harsh conditions and navigate challenging environments. They often feature advanced communication systems, strong engines, and enhanced safety features to support the journeys of their intrepid owners.

Yacht Interior and Layout

When it comes to yacht interiors and layouts, the options can be vast and tailored to the yacht owner’s preferences. This section will dive into the crucial aspects of yacht interior designs like cabin arrangements, deck layouts, and amenities.

Cabin Arrangements

Yacht cabins come in a variety of styles and sizes to accommodate different needs. A typical layout may include a master suite, guest cabins, and crew quarters. In some luxury yachts , you can find VIP guest suites, children’s rooms, and even offices. Customization options are almost limitless, so owners can choose the perfect combination of materials, fabrics, and color schemes for their floating home.

Deck Layout

The deck layout on a yacht is crucial for both aesthetic and functional reasons. The arrangement often includes various entertainment areas like dining spaces, sunbathing spots , and lounges. Some yachts also feature a beach club, where guests can enjoy direct access to the water for swimming or water sports. Navigating the seas demands superior functionality, so ease of movement and safety considerations are essential in designing deck layouts.

When it comes to amenities, the sky is the limit for what can be included on a luxury yacht. Ranging from onboard cinemas and wine cellars to gyms and spas, these floating palaces cater to the most discerning tastes. Cutting-edge technology adds to the yacht’s comfort, allowing seamless integration of entertainment systems, lighting, and climate control. The choice of amenities will depend on the owner’s preferences, ensuring that their yacht is a perfect reflection of their lifestyle.

Yacht Maintenance and Ownership

When owning a yacht, it’s crucial to have marine insurance . This will protect you against damage to your yacht, and potential liabilities with other boats or property. Research options and choose a policy that fits your needs.

Crew Requirements

Depending on your yacht’s size, you might need professional crew members. This could include a captain, crew, and possible staff for cooking, cleaning, and maintenance. Balance your budget with expected service level when hiring.

Moorage and Storage

Yachts require a place to be moored, and the fees for this vary depending on location. Look for marinas that can accommodate your yacht’s size and offer needed amenities. Additionally, consider the possibility of dry storage when not in use for extended periods.

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Types of Yachts: An Overview

17th feb 2023 by carrie reed.

From small yachts to superyachts, many luxurious vessels are available for purchase on the market today. Each type of yacht has unique features that set it apart from the other types, so a certain yacht style might suit you better than another. To make sure that you are looking at the right one for you, you will need to know how to distinguish the different types of yachts from each other.

While there is no set definition that specifically sets yachts apart from other vessels, they are generally understood to be larger than average (at least 40 feet long or bigger) with a galley, a head, and cabins with sleeping quarters. Yachts usually have powerful diesel motors that can handle cruising, runs to distant fishing grounds, and watersports. Yachts can also be classified by numerous factors, including size, amenities, and method of propulsion.

Types of Yachts

There are four main categories of yachts: motor yachts, sailing yachts, motor sailers, and cruisers. Let's take a look at each one.

Motor yachts

A motor yacht is propelled with the use of a motor or, more commonly, multiple motors. As the most common type of yacht available today, motor yachts are built for entertainment with spacious social interaction areas and luxurious accommodations. Buyers often choose motor yachts because of their suitability for extended cruising ventures, entertaining large groups of guests, and charter trips.

Sailing yachts

A sailing yacht uses sails as its primary means of propulsion. While these yachts also have motors on board, they’re usually used only when there is not enough wind to propel the craft, when docking, or when operating in heavily trafficked harbors or channels. Sailing yachts are appealing because of the quiet and environmentally friendly way they operate, as well as their essentially unlimited range. Sailing yachts generally have a lower profile and due the the shape of the hull, less onboard space than other types of yachts.

Motor sailers

Motor Sailers are a hybrid between a motor yacht and a sailing yacht. They generally use a motor as the primary form of propulsion, but also have sails that can be used when the weather conditions are right. Though less popular than the other types of yachts there are subcategories of motor sailers such as the gulet (for information see What is a Gulet? What is it like to charter one? ), and there are also some catamaran motor sailers.

Cruiser yachts

Yacht styles that do not quite fit into the previous categories are often called cruiser yachts or express cruisers. These yachts are generally modern looking, with sleek, streamlined hulls and open cockpit areas. They are on the smaller side for yachts, typically no more than 60 or 70 feet long, and are usually powered by twin diesel engines.

Types of Luxury Yachts

A luxury yacht is generally understood to be a yacht that is built with the latest in modern technology and features high-end finishes and materials. The word "luxury" can be used with any type of yacht that is exceptionally well-appointed, but some types of yachts are considered to be more luxurious than others. Let's take a look at what they are.

Classic luxury yachts

Today's classic luxury yachts are designed to emulate the grace and style of the classic yachts of yesteryear while incorporating the latest technology in a non-intrusive way. These yachts tend to have large private cabins with full baths and Jacuzzis, spacious social areas that can accommodate many guests, and lavish accommodations featuring air conditioning, high-speed internet access, and expansive entertainment systems.

Mega luxury yachts

Mega luxury yachts are private yachts that can be hundreds of feet long and are crafted specifically to carry large numbers of family and friends in lush accommodations. They feature vast open areas for sunning and socializing, multi-level entertainment and relaxation options, and VIP staterooms with private en suite heads. Many have additional special features, such as saunas, gymnasiums, and spas.

Types of Small Yachts

Small yachts, also called sport yachts, are vessels that are less than 60 feet long and are designed to accommodate no more than a dozen people at a time. These yachts often have sleek designs and may be used for fishing trips, offshore excursions, and water sports. Like the term "luxury," the word "sport" can be applied to just about any style of yacht, but some types seem to fit the category better than others. More information: Small Luxury Boats with a Difference .

Yacht Sizes

You can find yachts in three size categories: yachts, superyachts , and mega yachts. While you can find some variation in how these terms are used, yachts are generally classified as being up to 100 feet long. Superyachts are between 100 feet and 200 feet long. Mega yacht is the term used for any yacht that is more than 200 feet long.

Yacht Categories

Yachts are often categorized by their notable features, with the terms "sport" or "luxury" added to describe their level of opulence. Here are some of the most popular yacht categories.

Catamaran yachts

This type of yacht is often made of fiberglass and has two hulls with an open space in the middle for greater stability and a smoother ride. They are available in both sailing and power varieties.

Flybridge yachts

Flybridge yachts are built with a spacious deck and living space atop the main cabin, called the flying bridge or flybridge. The layout of the flybridge may be open or fully enclosed with climate control. They also typically have a hardtop and a sizable seating and/or lounge area.

Sportfish yachts

Also known as sport fishing yachts , these yachts are built for speed and durability, making them great for fishing trips and sport fishing tournaments. They typically have a large cockpit and ample storage space to accommodate anglers on the water for long periods of time. Sportfish yachts may come equipped with outriggers, fishboxes, fighting chairs, and other fishing features.

Expedition yachts

Expedition yachts are designed for adventure, with a deep displacement hull to enhance stability and comfort during long trips. They are designed for passengers to remain safe and comfortable through long oceanic voyages, and tend to have extended range and plenty of accommodations.

Written By: Carrie Reed

More from: Carrie Reed

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The Ultimate Guide to Different Types of Boats – Top 20

As we all know, a boat is a type of watercraft that has been specifically designed for navigating near-shore areas or inland waterways such as rivers and lakes.

What makes a boat different from a ship is its smaller size and lesser carrying capacity compared to the latter.

However, the definition of a boat –its size, shape and capacity-varies according to its purpose. To understand better, you might want to read about the major differences between boat and ship .

According to modern naval terms, a boat is defined as a watercraft that is small enough to be carried abroad a ship (some boats are measured up to 1000 feet in length).

Similarly, many boats are intended to provide service, not in near-shore areas but in the offshore environment.

Interestingly, contradicting the “ships can carry boats, but boats can’t carry ships” argument, even sometimes the US Navy submarines are called boats.

Historical evidence suggests that the boat has been used for transportation since pre-historic times. However, from the oldest known boat named dugouts, the evolution of the watercraft has now reached luxurious motor yachts.

Apart from recreational purposes, boats have also served an integral purpose in the modern commercial world by allowing active transportation of both passengers and cargo, wherever short distances are concerned.

Table of Contents

Types of Boats

Technically, there are several different types of boats, and it’s impossible to list down all the types. But, primarily, boats can be classified into three main sections as follows:

• Unpowered or man-powered boats (like rafts, gondolas, kayaks, etc.),
• Sailboats (sail-propelled)
• Motorboats (engine-powered)

Here we have a list of the major types of boats in the above-mentioned categories of vessels, along with boat pictures used around the world.

Related Read:   5 Biggest and Magnificent Sailing Ships of All Time

1. Fishing Boats

Built exclusively for fishing, fishing boats in different sizes are used on both salt and freshwater bodies. The immediate qualities of these boats include stability, strength, and durability to survive the fishing ventures across various kinds of waterways.

Fishing boats can be both manned and un-manned types. The all-purpose fishing boats generally include a front bow, rod lockers, a trolling motor system, an outboard power and live wells.

Compared to the boats meant for lakes and rivers, the boats fishing in the offshore environment will be taller in size and strong-built to withstand saltwater and harsher conditions.

On the other hand, the aluminium fishing boats weigh less and are highly durable.  The bass boats designed with slim profiles, and consist of 2-3 anglers on board, are type of a boat used for fishing.

Related Read:  Types of Fishing Vessels

2. Dinghy Boats

A dinghy can be a small inflatable boat usually made of rubber and comprises cross thwarts and rowlocks that act as seats and oars, respectively.

Commonly powered by sails, oars and small outboard engines, Dinghies are popularly known as sailboats, rowboats or simply inflatables.

These boats team up with more significant vessels and come in handy when the mothership cannot navigate in narrow areas. These rowboats can also be utilised as companion boats and are taken to camping expeditions or fishing in shallow waters.

Related Read: Differences Between a Ship and a Boat

3. Deck Boats

As the name suggests, Deck Boats come with an open deck area that provides plenty of seating arrangements for a small group of people.

The boat features a V-shaped hull with a wide beam to accommodate more passengers than a pontoon boat. Usually measures 25-35 ft in length, they are provided with a stern power drive and are popularly used for recreational activities like swimming, water sports etc.

4. Bowrider Boats

Known as a quintessential family boat, Bowriders offer room for eight or more passengers across its cockpit, bow cockpit and helm. In addition, the bow area of these boats has been constructed in a unique way to allow a spacious seating arrangement.

Moreover, these runabout-style vessels contain a swim platform for putting on wakeboards or for swimming activities feel-good leisure boating.

With its classic V-shaped bottom, Bowrider Boats offer a splendid ride across different water conditions. The usage of sterndrive power is the typical rule, but the demand for outboard engines is increasing rapidly.

4. Catamaran Boats

Unlike other boats, Catamaran is a multi-hulled watercraft that features two parallel hulls of equal size. Catamaran Boats feature less hull volume, shallower draft, and higher displacement than vessels with a single hull.

Excellent for fishing purposes and even for leisurely cruising abilities, Catamarans are being built for various purposes across the world.

Related Read:  Main Types of Catamarans Used in the Shipping World

6. Cuddy Cabins Boats

Well-suited for fishing, yachting, sailing and other water sports, Cuddy Cabins Boats is one of the most family-friendly vessels.

Featuring a closed deck over the boat’s bow, the boat allows a convenient storage space and easy navigation. The cuddy cabin boats are usually built of fibreglass and aluminium, and the minimum length is around 4.75 meters.

7. Centre Console Boats

Essentially a boat that features a hull with no cabin or foredeck and the helm station in the centre of the boat, Centre Consoles are great fishing platforms.

These boats are ideal for sports fishing and work in harsh offshore waterways with plenty of ocean fish. The essential equipment consists of bait wells, gunwale rod holders, fish lockers and outriggers, to name a few.

In addition, the deck provides a powerful insulation system for icing the fish storage.

Related Read:  Lafayette – The World’s Biggest Ship for Fish Processing

8. Houseboats

There are houseboats of different shapes and sizes worldwide, offering the luxury of living on water and providing excellent recreational and holiday accommodation facilities.

Houseboats, also known as Float house, incorporate broad flooring and modern amenities such as entertainment, fine dining, and proper sleeping arrangements.

The boats offer fun activities like relaxed cruising, water sports, family sailing etc. While most of the houseboats are motorized, there are boats incapable of operating under their own power since they are usually kept stationary at a location.

Related Read:  Top 10 Largest Cruise Ships in 2017

9. Trawler Boats

With features including a displacement hull and fuel-efficient engines, trawlers are intended to smoothly manoeuvre through the water bodies without exhausting much horsepower or consuming excessive fuel.

This quality makes the trawler a brilliant option for long-range cruising activities, as all modern facilities can be found aboard the boat.

10. Cabin Cruiser Boats

Offering all the essential features of a home, Cabin Cruiser boats are great for relaxed sailing. Designed with a galley and a berth, these boats offer modern comforts like heaters, air conditioners, and power generators.

In addition to a deep-V bottom, the Cabin Cruisers employ a secure shaft drive mechanism plus rudder steering and therefore are mainly suited for movement in the salty water.

11. Game boats

Powered by diesel or petrol engines, these fibreglass boats are large in measurement and are useful for the game fish pursuit, especially pelagic fishes like tuna and marlin.

Equipped with sleeping berths, plumbing systems, and cooking galleys, these boats allow passengers to continue their activities for a couple of days or more.

12. Motor Yacht Boats

The latest design in the evolution of boats, the motor yacht, is a watercraft primarily used for leisure activities. The motor yacht has a standard length of 12m and above, with one or two diesel engines per navigation requirements in inland waters or the oceans.

The motor yacht can vouchsafe for an enjoyable family trip for a long period of time that it sails on the water. There are different types of yachts in the market, including day sailing yachts, weekender yachts, cruising yachts, luxury sailing yachts etc. to meet the various requirements.

13. Personal Watercraft (PWC) Boats

The PWC boats, also known as water scooters and jetski, are customized boats for adventurous activities. This recreational watercraft allows individuals to explore the waters at their own ease and participate in games such as water-skiing and sports fishing, etc. There are two types of PWCs – “sit down” and “stand-up” models; while the former is intended for two or more people, the latter can only be used by a single rider.

14. Runabout Boats

Capable of accommodating four and eight people, Runabout Boats are typically used in racing, fishing, water skiing, etc. The movement of these open boats is controlled by a steering wheel and forward controls, as located behind a windscreen. Runabouts are usually declared entry-level vessels for casual sports and boating activities.

15. Jet Boats

Powered by a jet of water ejected from behind the vessel, Jet Boat is notable for its high manoeuvrability. The structure of a jet boat is quite similar to that of a bow-rider, as it offers a lot of seating areas and a swimming platform. In addition, the advanced propulsion system is securely enwrapped in the hull to protect it from any external damage.

16. Wakeboard/ Ski Boats

The wakeboard boats and the ski boats look quite the same but differ in their fields of action. The inboard ski boats require a powerful range of acceleration, and the shape of the engine and propeller accentuates it. On the other hand, the inboard wakeboards feature a V drive engine system, deep hulls, and a huge wake to set in motion.

17. Banana Boats

A banana boat is a type of watercraft that is solely utilized for recreational activities and family entertainment. As the name suggests, it is a banana-shaped inflatable watercraft and easily floats on water. It does not have an inbuilt motor system. A banana boat has the capacity to seat around three to ten people. Interestingly, at the same, the vessels being used primarily for the transportation of bananas as cargo is also called Banana boats.

Related Read:  Top 10 Most Expensive Private Yachts In The World

18. Lifeboats

In emergencies, lifeboats come to the rescue! The lifeboats are small watercraft attached to bigger vessels like cruises, and their main function is to carry passengers to a secure area if the concerned vessel is met with an accident. The lifeboats are well-equipped with immediate food and water supplies and other necessities to pacify the frightened voyagers in case of a shipwreck.

Related Read:  Common Reasons for Ship’s Lifeboat Engine Starting Failure

19. Pontoon Boat

Used popularly for inland waters and other small water bodies, Pontoon boats are flattish in shape, relying on tubes (pontoons) to float on the water. Typically, the length of the Pontoon boat ranges from 15-30 ft with a shallow draft. It consists of multiple aluminium tubes supporting the broad platform providing excellent stability.

They are used for recreational activities like cruising and fishing etc. The shape of a Pontoon boat helps designers plan the seating arrangements and other facilities according to the requirements.

20. Sedan Bridge Boat

Typically ranging from about 35–65 feet in length, Sedan Bridge Boat by Sea Ray Company offers the pleasure of excellent visibility to the navigator. With an extended bridge area, the boat makes the passengers feel like a big ship bridge and offers accommodations down below to suit extended stays on the water.

Apart from the above-mentioned ones, several other types of boats are also available in the market.

The list of the boats continues with vessels such as Skiff or Jon Boats, Hydrofoil boats, Cigarette boats, Cuddy Boats, Tug Boats , High-Speed Crafts, Bumper Boats, Pilot Boat, Fire Boat, Well boats, Kayak, Bay or Flat Boats, All-Purpose fishing Boats, Deck Boats, High-Performance Boats, Rafts, Surfboats, Narrowboats, Folding Boats, Log Boats, Go-fast Boats, Catboats, Junk Boats, Ferry Boats, Canoe Boats, U-boats, Dory boats etc.

Over to you…

If you think any other type of boat should be added to this list, let’s know in the comments below.

You might also like to read:

• A Guide To Types of Ships
• Types of Sailboats: A Comprehensive Classification
• Different Types of Submarines and Underwater Vessels
• Different Types of Barges Used in the Shipping World
• LNG Tankers: Different Types And Dangers Involved
• What is Karadeniz Powership? 
• Top 11 Books On Boating

Disclaimer:  The authors’ views expressed in this article do not necessarily reflect the views of Marine Insight.  Data and charts, if used, in the article have been sourced from available information and have not been authenticated by any statutory authority. The author and Marine Insight do not claim it to be accurate nor accept any responsibility for the same. The views constitute only the opinions and do not constitute any guidelines or recommendation on any course of action to be followed by the reader.

The article or images cannot be reproduced, copied, shared or used in any form without the permission of the author and Marine Insight. 

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13 Comments

Though the personal watercraft boat seems like it would be an adventure, I’d prefer the classic fishing boat with an outboard power and live wells. I love fishing and this probably suits my needs just fine. It could also be that I don’t know how to swim either and this just seems safest.

Add another catergory Power Sailer. My Imexus 28 Trailer Sailer has a 180hp inboard whilst being generally sailing oriented. This catergory has some early examples like the Lancer 27, a big volume seller in the Macgregor 26Xand M and others like the Hunter X and Mackmam 28 All having large outboards fitted. Jimmy Buffett had one built I believe which was much bigger yacht again featuring a pair of 70 hp inboards I think. Just another catergory to add to the list. Regards Graeme

Well explained, I got some information about the bout on your article. I have shared it with my friend, who is planning to buy a boat. I am sure this post helps him to choose the right type of boat for him. He joined a yacht show in Thailand and like a boat from Boat Lagoon Yachting. Thanks for sharing.

@Johan: Glad the information came handy

I find it helpful that you made a list of boats with a detailed description of each. When I learned that a person can get a fishing boat so that they can be used to get saltwater and freshwater fish, my suggestion for boat buyers is to invest in a custom dock by a local contractor before buying one. Doing this will help them have a safe place to keep it safe while not in use.

Got any recommendations for a single man boat? I’m writing a character who likes the freedom of getting on his (modest) motor boat and taking off for the afternoon/evening. Below deck accommodations w/b great too. But I wouldn’t want to cost to be more than $20k. Any help is appreciated! Oh, and, he likes to go fast!

Nice post very informing. btw how do I know the difference between boats that are different that look the same?

I lovw boats so much! these are so cool! have you ever gone on a pizza boat they are the best things ever! carrbean pizza boats!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! i want to marry one one day. Lol.

This is really informative and i loved it i work with a marine company as a social media strategist and i was scouring the web for contents and i stumbled on this i thought i knew boats but now i know better thanks for the information btw i was wondering if you could give me permission to use some of these pictures for the content i’m creating. i’d love to hear from you soon. Regards

good information about boats

Banana Boats!! Seriously!!!

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When is a Boat a Yacht?

Types of yachts – sizes, styles, & categories.

With so many different types of yachts to choose from, it can be hard to know your Flybridges from your Tri-Decks if you’re just starting your search. Although there is a growing number of terms used to describe the different types of yachts out there, many of the terms overlap or are used interchangeably.

If you’re on the market for a yacht, the team here at Van Isle Marina has compiled a review of the different terms you’ll likely come across when cruising through yachts for sale .

a luxury motoryacht

Below is our brief guide to understanding the different terms the boating community has been known to use to describe yachts.

Definition of a Yacht

What exactly makes a yacht a yacht, and not just a big boat? There is no nailed down definition of what makes a yacht a yacht, but most boaters consider a yacht to be any type of sea vessel that is used strictly for recreational or pleasure purposes like cruising , entertaining, water sports, fishing , or year-round accommodations.

Yachts are usually large enough to have some form of sleeping quarters (cabin) on board for overnight trips as well as a kitchen (galley) and a bathroom (head). They are also large enough that they require more than human inputs (i.e rowing) to propel forward.

Yachts are classed by many things, including their mode of propulsion, size, style, amenities, and function.

General Types of Yachts

a sailing yacht

A yacht is first defined either as a sailing yacht, motor yacht, or gulet yacht, and then as a sports or luxury yacht.

• Sailing Yacht: a yacht mainly propelled via wind and sails
• Motor Yacht: a yacht propelled via one or more motors
• Gulet Yacht: a hybrid yacht with both sails and motors
• Open Yacht, Cruiser, Cabin Cruiser, Express Cruiser: an otherwise uncategorized standard yacht for cruising and entertaining
• Luxury Yacht: a yacht that includes high-end finishes and features and the latest in modern performance technology. The term ‘luxury’ can precede any type of yacht, i.e. “luxury motor yacht”, “luxury sailing yacht”, etc.
• Sports Yacht: a yacht geared towards fishing, water sports, or cruising with a sleeker design and more powerful motor for faster cruising speeds. The term ‘sports’ can precede other types of yachts as well, i.e. “sports motor yacht”.

a catamaran

Yacht Sizes

Yachts can further be defined as a superyacht or megayacht, depending on their size.

• Super Yachts are typically 24 meters (78 feet) and above.
• Mega Yachts are typically over 80 meters (260 feet).

Most motor yachts on the market are typically 24 meters (78 feet) or less.  There are only a handful of megayachts in the world due to their extravagant price tag.

Yacht Style Categories

Yachts can further be grouped or defined according to their form and function, such as with flybridge, sedan, pilot house, and sportfish yachts, for example.

• Classic Motor Yacht: a yacht that was built between the 1920s and 1970s (before today’s modern technology began dominating modern yacht manufacturing). A modern yacht can be built based on the classic motor yacht style.
• Sedan: a popular yacht style with deck space above the hull and living quarters below. The living quarters of a sedan yacht are enclosed and single-level.
• Flybridge: a sedan-style yacht with an open deck and more comfortable living space above the main bridge of a vessel.
• Daybridge: a multi-level yacht that is even more open than a flybridge. Belize Motoryachts are known for creating this distinctive style of yacht.
• Open or Enclosed: a term used to describe the layout of and access to the flybridge. In an enclosed flybridge, access to the above flybridge is enclosed inside the living space. In an open flybridge, access to the flybridge above is open to the elements.
• Downeast Style: a low-profile yacht with a large working cockpit and small helm station. This highly recognizable style is inspired by the mid-1900s traditional Maine lobster boat. Back Cove yachts are a shining example of downeast-style inspired yachts.
• Pilothouse: A multi-deck yacht like a flybridge with a larger interior main deck.
• Sky Lounge: an enclosed area at the top of the vessel that provides the benefits of the view but with several amenities, protection from the elements, expansive windows and sometimes a sunroof.
• Cockpit Motor Yacht: a yacht with more cockpit space than deck space.
• Sportfish or Sport Fishing Yacht: A yacht used for fishing with a large cockpit, storage space, and the ability to handle rougher seas. These can also be referred to as Flybridge Sportfish or Sportfish Express and are built for longer durations out on the water.
• Convertible: a yacht that combines features of a standard motor yacht with a sportfish yacht to have entertaining space when you need it, and also fishing space when you need it.
• SUV: a yacht that combines features of a standard motor yacht and sport yacht.
• Tri-Decks : a superyacht with three levels of staggered, enclosed living space.
• Expedition Yachts: a large yacht with a deeper displacement hull for more stability and comfort during longer-range trips.

Read a few descriptions of yachts for sale and you’ll soon realize the boating community sometimes seems to have its own language. To accompany this roundup of yacht types, check out our Parts of a Boat post for more information, or jump right into checking out some of the models we at Van Isle Marina have for sale right now.

Blog Headlines

• What is a Yacht? (History, Types of Yachts, Styles and Sizes) January 15, 2024 - 10:35 am

• Essential Off-Season Haul-Out Services for Your Boat August 10, 2023 - 4:34 pm

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Best Yacht Brands by Type

Table of Contents

Qualifying something as “best” needs an explanation. Is it considered to be the best because it’s the largest or most popular, has the highest quality, is the best value, or is perfect for a specific use?

That’s why it’s hard to decide which are the best yachts on the market today. Beneteau may be the largest volume boat builder in the world, and Viking may be best known for sportfishing designs but how do we qualify what’s “best” in each category?

For our purposes here, let’s delve into the best yacht brands by type and then mention some brand names in each group that you’re most likely to see on the water.

Post summary:

Runabouts & bowriders

Cruising motor yachts, distance cruisers & trawlers, center consoles, sportfishing yachts.

List your boat & start earning an avg. of $20K yearly with Boatsetter

Sailboats, also known as a sailing yacht or a sailcraft, is a water vessel designed to harness the power of the wind to propel itself across the water. These vessels come in various sizes and configurations.

• Nautor’s Swan
• Hallberg-Rassy
• Grand Soleil

Pro Tip: You can search for boats by brand on Boatsetter. Once you select the location you’d like to browse for boat rentals, you’ll see a filter bar at the top of the results. Click ‘Filters’ and scroll down until you see ‘Boat manufacturers.’ Click on all you’d like to see.

Explore Sailboat Rentals

Multihulls come with two (catamarans) and three (trimarans) hulls and can be either sail or powerboats (some brands build both):

• HH Catamarans
• Fountaine Pajot (both power and sail versions)
• Leopard (both power and sail versions)
• NEIL (sail trimaran)
• LEEN (power trimaran)
• World Cat (smaller power fishing)
• Aspen (smaller power cruising and fishing)

Small open boats come in many flavors with open or closed bows and on- deck amenities. They may be used as standalone boats or even tenders to superyachts and they can’t be pigeonholed into one type or one use:

• Chris-Craft

Learn more about bowriders

This category generally includes motorized yachts 40-80 feet . Lots of boats (not all designed for an identical purpose) share this space including cabin cruisers, express cruisers, sedans, and so forth:

• Jeanneau Prestige
• Jeanneau Leader
• Beneteau Monte Carlo

Explore yacht rentals

Distance cruisers, trawlers, and expedition yachts are usually slower but have an exceptional range as they travel the coastlines or the oceans of the world:

• Grand Banks
• Ocean Alexander
• Beneteau Swift
• Ranger Tugs
• Nordic Tugs
• American Tug

Pro Tip: Yachts are one of the most popular boats, and boat-sharing makes it possible for anyone to get on one for a fraction of the cost. If you own a yacht, this is good business for you! List your yacht and start making an extra income by renting it out.

Center console boats are typically used for fishing although many today are doing double duty as family entertainers:

• Boston Whaler
• Grady-White

Rental local center console boats

These offshore boats tend to travel great distances to their fishing grounds and hunt for bigger species:

Check out the hottest boats in the market at Boat Types , and make sure to scroll through Boat Guides to find your next boating destination .

Boatsetter is a unique boat-sharing platform that gives everyone— whether you own a boat or you’re just renting — the chance to experience life on the water. You can list a boat , book a boat , or make money as a captain .

List. Rent. Earn— Only at Boatsetter

Zuzana Prochazka is an award-winning freelance journalist and photographer with regular contributions to more than a dozen sailing and powerboating magazines and online publications including Southern Boating, SEA, Latitudes & Attitudes and SAIL. She is SAIL magazines Charter Editor and the Executive Director of Boating Writers International. Zuzana serves as judge for SAIL’s Best Boats awards and for Europe’s Best of Boats in Berlin. 

A USCG 100 Ton Master, Zuzana founded and manages a flotilla charter organization called Zescapes that takes guests adventure sailing at destinations worldwide. 

Zuzana has lived in Europe, Africa and the United States and has traveled extensively in South America, the islands of the South Pacific and Mexico. 

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45 Types of Boats

There are literally hundreds of different types of boats in the world. For some, the difference between them is very little. For instance, a pontoon and a tritoon are the same boat save for the addition of a single extra pontoon tube. Other boats are highly specialized like a crane boat which may be used for lifting freighters out of the water. And yet others are mostly lost to history, like the boita vessels of the Kalinga region of India.

Let’s take a look at some of the more common boats you’re apt to see in the world today, and maybe a few less common ones.

Banana Boat

Historically there are actually two kinds of vessels known as banana boats. The less common version in the modern world is the banana boat transport ship which carried bananas as freight from their tropical origins to ports in Europe and North America.

In the modern parlance, a banana boat is a long, banana-shaped inflatable craft used for recreation. They can seat as many as 10 people and they are towed behind other boats similar to water skiing or tubing.

Barges are flat bottomed boats that are used in rivers, canals and other inland waterways. Usually these are just used to carry freight and cargo and sometimes they are not even able to do so under their own power, rather they are pushed or pulled by tugs.

Bass Fishing Boat

A bass boat is a small motor boat for use in freshwater specifically for freshwater fishing and, in particular, bass fishing. They often feature livewells for holding fish as well as flat decks and room for several anglers. The seats in bass boats actually swivel to allow you to shift from one side of the boat to the other very easily. There will also be more storage for fishing gear and rods than you’ll find on the average boat.

A bass boat will be powered by an outboard motor but it should also have a trolling motor for maneuvering as well.

Bowrider Boat

Bowrider boats have an open bow area to allow for additional seating. Bowriders are often lumped under the umbrella of runabouts but while a bowrider is a runabout not all runabouts are bowriders, obviously. Most bowriders are between 20 and 35 feet. They typically have sterndrive or outboard motors and can offer seating for around 6 to 10 passengers. They will have a deep v-shaped hull and are good boats for things like water skiing and  cruising.

Cabin Cruiser Boats

A cabin cruiser is a power boat that features a cabin on the vessel so that crew or passengers can spend the night on the boat. Typically these accommodations are larger and more well-appointed than what you’ll find in a cuddy cabin, but definitely not as luxurious as a yacht or a houseboat. A good-sized cabin cruiser over 40 feet should have private staterooms, a head and a cooking and dining area. You can comfortably sleep half a dozen people in most cabin cruisers and many more in larger ones.

One of the oldest and most recognizable kinds of boats, a canoe is a long, narrow craft which is paddled by the boater. A single bladed paddle can be used by one or more passengers. Canoes are pointed at the bow and after and can come in a variety of lengths such that they have room for one or many passengers inside.

Canoes can be made from wood, fiberglass or aluminum and are typically lightweight enough to allow them to be carried, or portaged, from one body of water to another if necessary. They are ideal for rivers, lakes and coastal waters and can be used for fishing and cruising.

A catamaran is a boat with two distinct but equal sized hulls. The hulls are connected by a bridge deck between them. They are known for offering a stable ride and can be powered by engines or wind.

Center Console Boats

As the name suggests, a center console boat features the helm control is the center of the boat. If the boat is large enough it may feature a cabin or a berth inside, but smaller center consoles will not. A center console is an ideal boat for fishing because, with the console located in the middle, the rest of the boat is open in a full 360 degrees for visibility and moving around. Combined with a good amount of deck space they are easy to use and offer space for gear storage.

Cigarette Boat

Cigarette boats are also known as cigar boats , rum runners and, more generically, go-fast boats. The names cigar and cigarette come from the fact they are similarly shaped, which is to say long and thin. Cigarette boat is actually a brand name for a go-fast boat.

Because of their long, sleek shape and design, these boats were ideal for smuggling as well as racing.

Cuddy Cabin Boats

A cuddy cabin boat, or a walkaround cuddy , is usually somewhere between 18 and 25 feet. They can be used as fishing boats or cruisers and will have cabin space to allow for overnight trips as well, which is what the term “cuddy” refers to. In this case, a cuddy is a berth in the V of the boat’s bow that will also have a small head and maybe a sink. Sometimes the cuddy is simply used for storage though it can easily be used for sleeping.

Deck boats have wide bows which allow for larger deck space, hence the name. The hull is a v-shaped but more flared with a typical boat to allow for that extra space. Deck boats are often compared to pontoon boats but the traditional hull of a deck boat means they will not generally have the same amount of space as a pontoon.

Dragon Boat

Dragon boats originate in China and are used for racing these days. Similar to canoes in design, they are generally about 40 feet long and are powered by 16 to 20 paddlers split evenly between the two sides of the boat paddling with oars to propel the boat forward. There will be a steersperson at the front of the boat and also a drummer at the back to maintain a pace for the rowers.

The boats are made of wood traditionally and have been used for over 2000 years. The ends of the boat are usually decorated with dragon heads and tails to complete the look.

Dinghy is another general, catchall term for a number of very small boats. Typically a dinghy will only have room for one or two passengers. They can be rowed with oars or sailed with small sails. Some feature small outboard motors as well. Dinghies are frequently carried by or towed by larger boats for the purpose of allowing crew to leave the larger vessel and take the dinghy ashore.

Also called an airboat, a fan boat looks similar to a hovercraft but does not have the air cushion beneath it. Instead they will have a rigid, flat bottom hull design that is usually aluminum. Airboats are most often used in swamp and marsh areas where a propeller engine would not be practical due to shallow waters and numerous hazards that would get caught in the props. With a very shallow draft and a powerful fan engine, the fan boat is able to skin across the surface of shallow areas.

Ferry Boats

A ferry is a passenger vessel that usually runs a scheduled route between two points. Small ferries may simply offer transports for people while larger ferries can accommodate vehicles as well. Ferries generally operate in one of two ways. They bring people to and from specific destinations which can only be accessed by boat or they provide tours such as the Maid of the Mist ferry which allows passengers to get a closer look at Niagara Falls.

Fishing Boats

Fishing boat s are one of the most loosely defined boat types. It’s a catchall term for really any boat that is used for fishing and, as such, can take on countless forms. From large commercial vessels to a simple aluminum fishing boat or a sport fishing boat , as long as you can fish from the boat it qualifies as a fishing boat.

Most people, when referring to fishing boats, mean smaller vessels which can still vary greatly between freshwater and saltwater use.

When you’re in a shallow part of the water with a flat bottom most people will call that a “flats.” Flats boats are small fishing boats with a very shallow draft perfect for fishing in flats and can handle water less than a foot deep. Usually these are coastal waters and sometimes in bays which is why flats boats are also called bay boats sometimes.

A frigate is likely something you won’t be coming across in your travels but you may still hear the name. Frigates are military vessels. Once upon a time they were three-masted warships and today they are still ships of war through noticeably without sails. They tend to be smaller than Destroyers but serve much the same purpose in warfare.

Gondolas are flat bottomed rowing boats similar to long, narrow canoes. They are most famously found in the canals of Venice in Italy although they are also prominent in some Asian countries for navigating along rivers and canals as well. You can also find gondolas in places like New Orleans and Boston. A gondola is usually a passenger vessel operated by a gondolier who will stand at the bow of the vessel and use a long oar to maneuver the boat.

A houseboat is a boat that serves as a full time residence and therefore contains all the amenities you would expect in an actual house including multiple bedrooms, bathrooms, fully functional kitchens and so on. A houseboat can be operated and taken out for cruising or fishing but most are permanently moored in a place that will serve as a residence. This allows for the boat to be connected to utilities such as electricity from a land-based source, as well as having access to clean water.

Some houseboats can get incredibly extravagant with multiple floors, indoor swimming pools, wine cellars and more.

A hovercraft is able to travel over both water and land and is sometimes called an air cushion vehicle or ACV. Air fills a skirt or cushion beneath the vessel’s hull to provide lift. Unlike some other boats that use air to achieve lift, like a hydrofoil, the design of a hovercraft means they can take advantage of the lift even while not in motion. As well, they are not limited to operating solely on the water. Many hovercraft designs also include a large fan in the rear for propulsion.

A hydrofoil boat uses a hydrofoil, sometimes just called a foil, to provide lift to the boat as it reaches speeds. These foils look like feet that extend under the boat into the water. They are fully submerged when the boat is at rest or moving slowly and cause the boat to have a deep draft which means they cannot be used safely in shallow water.

As a hydrofoil gains speed, the foils will lift the hull of the boat out of the water. This cuts back on drag and allows the boat to travel faster and operate far more efficiently. The ride is often more comfortable for passengers as well.

A hydroplane, sometimes called a thunderboat, is a racing boat that often looks like some kind of wingless jet or spacecraft on the water. They are designed so that, at high speeds, they plane on the water to stay afloat rather than having to rely on the buoyancy of the hull. That means hydrodynamic lift keeps the boat above the water, in much the same way a stone will skip across the surface of the water when thrown properly.

Inflatable Boats

An inflatable boat can take several forms and may include anything from a dinghy to a liferaft and even inflatable pontoon boats. Any lightweight boat that has a hull made entirely from flexible tubes or supported by those flexible tubes that can be filled with pressurized air to provide buoyancy and structure to the boat can be considered an inflatable.

Any boat that moves thanks to jet drive propulsion qualifies as a jet boat . This would also include personal watercraft, strictly by this definition. A jet drive differs from an outboard or even inboard motor which uses a propeller to rotate through the water and push the boat forward. A jet drive draws water inside with an impeller and then expels the water with force out of the rear of the vessel. The pushing out of a jet of water forces the boat to move forward. Some jet boats produce a massive jet of water from the rear known as a rooster tail.

The fastest boats in the world are jet boats with those outfitted for racing able to reach speeds well over 300 mph.

A jon boat is a very basic, flat-bottom vessel usually reserved for fishing or cruising. It may have one to three benches inside for seating and little else. Hulls are typically aluminum and sometimes fiberglass and should not exceed 24 feet. Because they have an extremely shallow draft they are ideal for use in rivers, swamps and other shallow water areas. Jon boats typically use an outboard or trolling motor to maneuver around. They’re considered good boats for newcomers to boating and are not difficult to control.

Similar to a canoe but with a covered deck and dual paddles. Kayak the word comes from an Inuit language and the boats are Inuit in origin where they were used for hunting and fishing in lakes, rivers and coastal waters. There have been numerous modifications to this original kayak design including kayaks that seat several passengers, ones you sit on top of, sailing kayaks and even motorized kayaks.

Optimist Boat

An optimist boat or optimist dinghy is usually used by children. It is a sailing vessel with room for just a single occupant. Today they are often used for racing and official races require that the boats are registered and meet some fairly strict requirements to qualify as “real” optimist boats.

Outrigger Canoe

An outrigger canoe is a traditional canoe that has been outfitted with an additional one or even two buoyancy supports. Often a single outrigger will extend from one side or the other of the canoe’s hull. The outrigger can be similar to a pontoon or even just a log in very simple designs. Anything that offers buoyancy and stability to the main vessel. An outrigger can be affixed to both sides producing a look similar to a trimaran.

Paddle Boat

Also called a pedalo, a paddle boat requires human power rather than wind or a motor to move it. The operator and/or passenger pedals in a similar fashion to a bicycle which in turn rotates a paddle wheel to provide propulsion. These are typically used in ponds or calm river stretches. Steer is usually limited to a very simple rudder control that will allow for very slow and simple turns while the paddle itself provides propulsion only as powerful as your legs can manage.

A pontoon boat uses aluminum or inflatable tubes, called pontoons, to keep the hull above the water. This provides good stability and buoyancy. Some boats have a third pontoon and may be called tritoon boats. They offer more deck space than typical v-shaped hull boats but tend to be slower overall. Pontoon boats are ideal fishing and cruising boats, and their large deck space makes them ideal boats for families. They are not well suited for open waters and rough seas, however.

A PWC or personal watercraft is often called a Sea Doo or jetski. These recreational craft are usually used by just one person but some have room for passengers. They are operated by sitting or standing on them rather than in them as you would a boat. PWC are powered by outboard jet drive propulsion. In addition to recreation activities, PWC are often used by lifeguards because of their speed and maneuverability. Most states have additional laws for boaters using PWCs that need to be followed.

A raft is one of the simplest and most basic structures that can qualify as a boat. It is a flat structure devoid of sides and may be as simple as boards, branches or logs lashed together to provide a surface that can hold a passenger. Their buoyancy comes from the materials, such as wood, rather than any kind of strategic hull design. That said, pontoon rafts can also be easily made even from simple materials like air-filled barrels.

Rigid-Hull Inflatable

Also called a RIB, a rigid-hull inflatable boat has a rigid bottom made of something like aluminum, with inflatable tubes making up the sides to give structure and buoyancy. Life boats and dinghies will often be rigid-hull inflatables.

Runabout is a general term that can apply to several specific kinds of boats. In general, a runabout is a motorboat that can be used for fishing, cruising, or watersports. It seats several people, around a half dozen or so, and is usually between 20 feet and 35 feet. The steering is located at the front and there’s probably a windshield as well. Runabouts are fairly basic boats that are well-suited to newcomers.

Any boat propelled by the power of the wind acting on sails is a sailboat . Within that definition there can be different types of sailboats including schooners, cutters, sloops, ketches, catamarans and many others. These are historically some of the oldest boats in the world dating back thousands of years. Sail boats can be small enough to hold just a single passenger or massive enough to accommodate hundreds. With the advent of motorized travel, most sailboats only exist as recreational vessels.

Modern sailboats are recreational craft used for fishing, racing and cruising.

A schooner is a sailboat with at last two masts. To qualify as a schooner the after mast or masts have to be as big or bigger than the foremast. Technically you would only use the word “schooner” to describe such a boat with two masts and if it had four masts, for instance, you would call it a four-masted schooner.

A scow is a large, flat bottomed boat like a barge but not as big. The ends are squared off and the purpose of the vessel is generally for transportation. Arguably the most well known type of scow is a garbage scow which, as the name suggests, transports large quantities of trash.

A skiff is not a specific type of boat. Any small, flat-bottomed boat with a squared off aft section and a pointed bow would likely qualify as a skiff. These are usually used for things like river fishing and can be operated with lower horsepower outboard engines.

This is the state boat of Maryland and was traditionally the boat used in the Chesapeake Bay for oyster dredging. They are two-masted sailboats with what they call a leg-o-mutton sail, which means triangular fore and aft sails behind the mast which is raked, or angled.

A sloop is a sailboat that has a single mast. It should only have two sails – a headsail and a mainsail. You may also see a sloop with a racing or cruising spinnaker.

Trawler Boats

There are actually two kinds of boats called trawlers. Fishing trawlers are commercial fishing vessels that trawl for fish, which means they drag fishing nets behind them. Recreational trawlers are named after fishing trawlers and feature much the same design, they’re just not used for fishing, or not commercial fishing at least. Recreational trawlers feature cabins and creature comforts like you’d find in a cabin cruiser, a yacht, etc.

Similar to a catamaran, a trimaran has one central hull and then two smaller outriggers. While a catamaran may be more oriented to being a pleasure vessel, a trimaran is better equipped for speed. The outriggers ensure great stability even at speed and are adept at staying afloat even on very rough seas.

Tugboats are most often found in harbors or ports where they are used to help larger vessels maneuver in tight spaces. They are also deployed to tow damaged or incapacitated vessels. They can either pull another vessel with a tow line or pull it. Given the nature of their jobs, tugboats are surprisingly powerful despite their small size.

There is not actually a specific boat that qualifies as a yacht in the way a canoe must clearly be a canoe or a pontoon boat is clearly a pontoon boat. A yacht can be sail powered or engine powered, used for racing, fishing or cruising, and can be a variety of lengths. In general, however, a yacht has a cabin to allow for extended and overnight stays and will usually be at least 33 feet in length. Most people associate a yacht with at least some measure of luxury.

The Bottom Line

There are hundreds and hundreds of different kinds of boats and ships, including various subsets of boats such as is the case with things like sailboats, fishing boats and yachts. Other boats may be known by several different names interchangeably, like how canoe can refer to both a canoe or a kayak in the UK. If you’re ever unsure about what kind of boat someone is referring to, it never hurts to ask or check with your old friend Google.

My grandfather first took me fishing when I was too young to actually hold up a rod on my own. As an avid camper, hiker, and nature enthusiast I'm always looking for a new adventure.

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The 10 Most-Exciting Yacht Debuts at the Palm Beach International Boat Show

Besides the debut of smaller vessels, more than 60 yachts over 100 feet will be at palm beach this week. it promises to be a banner event., howard walker, howard walker's most recent stories.

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For superyacht shoppers, the Palm Beach International Boat Show, kicking off its four-day run this week, is set to break records with more than 60 yachts over 100 feet long on display. Last year was also a banner year for superyachts at the show. 

Headliners will include the likes of the 295-foot Corsair Nero ,  the 278-foot Victorious by AKYacht, the 230-foot Turquoise-built Talisman C , and 213-foot Benetti Triumph among brokerage yachts, and in new yachts, the 113-foot Ocean Alexander Puro 35 is making its world debut.  

There are so many gleaming white vessels over 100 feet, in fact, that the fleet will be split between the Palm Harbor Marina at the main show site on the downtown West Palm Beach waterfront and the Safe Harbor Rybovich Marina two miles north. 

Now in its 42nd year, PBIBS will also showcase hundreds of models of dayboats, cruisers, and fishing boats, as well as marine accessories. Running from this Thursday through Sunday, the show coincides with the Palm Beach Modern + Contemporary art show, a fortuitous opportunity for yacht owners wanting to add new art to their collections.

Here are 10 must-see boats at this year’s show.

Corsair Yachts ‘Nero’

The undisputed star of this year’s Palm Beach show? That would be the 295-foot, classically styled superyacht Nero , built in 2007 and inspired by American financier J.P. Morgan’s legendary 1930s steamer Corsair IV . Nero ‘s attendance at PBIBS marks its return to the charter market after an extensive refit in 2021. Now better than new, the boat is being managed by Burgess. With weekly charter rates from $497,000, the vessel offers five-star accommodations for 12 guests in six cabins, with pampering from a crew of 20. Part of the refit included a full interior refresh by Italian interior designer Laura Pomponi, plus a major focus on wellness. That meant the construction of a new, state-of-the-art gym and spa, the assistance of a certified onboard trainer, a masseuse and beautician. After PBIBS, Nero will spend the winter in the Caribbean before returning to the Med for the summer season.

Ocean Alexander Puro 35P

Ocean Alexander is debuting the first of its new Puro superyacht series at PBIBS. The 113-foot Puro 35P comes from the drawing board of Italian designer Giorgio M. Cassetta and is a step back from the polarizing lines of OA’s recent Revolution and Explorer series with their bold, vertical bow designs. Aimed at long-distance cruising, the 35P can carry over 5,000 gallons of fuel and is powered by twin 2,000 hp MAN V12s for a 24-knot top speed. Twin 55kW Kohler generators can also keep the yacht powered at anchor for long periods. Other standout features include extensive glazing in the chiseled fiberglass hull, a forward deck plunge pool, and spacious accommodations for 10 guests. 

Think of it as the “starter” Sirena. Aimed at a younger demographic, the Turkish builder’s brand-new Sirena 48 is making its U.S. debut at PBIBS after a global reveal at last fall’s Cannes boat show. Such is its appeal that 27 hulls have already been sold, with 13 of the orders coming from North America. Looking like a scaled-down version of Sirena’s popular 58, its distinctive, trawler-style lines are from Argentinian designer Germán Frers. With more interior space than a typical 48-footer, the yacht offers three staterooms—plus a crew cabin—a spacious, light-filled salon, a large cockpit, an oversized flybridge, and a vast forward social area. Take your pick from twin 550 hp Cummins QSB, or 670 hp Volvo D11 turbo diesels. Or the builder is also offering hybrid power with twin 285 hp electric motors charged up by variable-speed generators that are good for a 30-mile battery-only range.

Feadship ‘Olympus’

Picture purchasing a classic 180-foot Feadship superyacht, and then getting a $10 million bill for a major refit. That was the case with Olympus , built by the Dutch masters at Feadship in 1996 to a design by Britain’s Andrew Winch and the celebrated naval architect Frits De Voogt. Sold in 2022, the new owner sent it to the Monaco Marine refit center in La Ciotat, France for a major makeover. It included overhauling the 2,600 hp Caterpillar engines and generators, repairs to the structure, substantial upgrades to the guest areas and crew quarters, and new paint throughout. With the work completed just last year, the vessel is said to be in mint condition. Offered jointly by brokers Fraser and Edmiston, Olympus has an asking price of $28.5 million. With accommodations for 16 guests in eight cabins, the boat’s highlights include two primary suites, tropical-spec air conditioning, and Palm Beach-chic decor.

Benetti ‘Triumph’

Italian yachting powerhouse Benetti is showing off its superyacht-building skills with the 213-foot Triumph . Delivered in 2021, this Giorgio M. Cassetta-designed steel-and-aluminum world girder features six decks, a 1,400-square-foot primary suite with outdoor terrace and adjoining lounge, a 750-square-foot beach club, and a touch-and-go helipad. What sets Triumph apart, however, is its lavish interior furnishings put together by the owner along with Benetti Interior Style and Monaco-based Green & Mingarelli Design. It includes pieces by French glassmaker Lalique, marble from Marfil, Statuario and Armani, furs, silk and wool carpets, plus a collection of cool black-and-white wildlife photographs by British fine art photographer David Yarrow. The pièce de résistance? That would be the owner’s Triumph Bonneville motorcycle displayed in the salon.

Fjord 39 XP/XL

Germany’s Fjord Yachts, part of the Hanse Group, has a new 39-foot day boat that it’s unveiling at the Palm Beach show. The 39 XP and XL keep all the bold design cues of the bigger Fjord 41 XP and XL, like a big, open cockpit, walkaround center console, vertical bow, mile-high windshield and stretched hardtop. As for the differences between the XP and XL, it’s all about power. The XL comes with a choice of twin 320hp Volvo D4 diesels, or bigger 440 hp D6 versions, both with Volvo stern drives. Likely more appealing to U.S. buyers will be the XP powered by twin 400 hp Mercury Verado V10 outboards giving a 50-knot top speed. Pricing starts at around $500,000.

Turquoise ‘Talisman C’

Chandeliers don’t come more dramatic than this. Cascading down the central spiral staircase of the Turkish-built, 231-foot superyacht Talisman C , this jaw-dropping piece of art comprises an array of multi-colored glass balls threaded on stainless-steel rods and illuminated by hanging fiber-optic strands. It’s the creation of Prague-based Crystal Caviar and is one of a number of glass installations on this sleek, low-profile superyacht. Built in 2011 by the Proteksan Turquoise shipyard, Talisman C was designed inside and out by London-based studio H2 Yacht Design, with naval architecture by Italy’s Hydro Tec. With cabins for 12 guests, one of its highlights is a huge primary suite, which boasts more crystal chandeliers and a private library. Twin 2,447 hp Caterpillar diesels give a top speed of 18 knots and a transatlantic range of 7,000 nautical miles at 12 knots. It’s listed with Burgess for $59.9 million. 

Sanlorenzo 44 ‘Kamakasa’

Delivered in 2020 and sold to a new buyer just last August, the 146-foot Sanlorenzo 44 Alloy Kamakasa will be for sale at PBIBS. The asking price, through the Italian Yacht Group, is $23.75 million. Lack of use might also be the issue here; the yacht’s twin 2,600 hp MTU V16 diesels have a mere 289 hours on the clock. Built in aluminum to a design by Rome-based Zuccon International Project, Kamakasa was the second hull in the Sanlorenzo 44 Alloy series. One of the top features is a primary suite that spans three levels and almost 1,600 square feet; it also comes with a private Jacuzzi, separate bathrooms, a walk-in closet, and a private study. The yacht’s lightweight construction and MTU power combine to deliver an impressive 20-knot top speed.

Bahama 41 GT2

As ultimate, reel-’em-in, fishing center consoles go, the Bahama 41 from West Palm Beach-based Bahama Boat Works is as hard-core as they come. But when owners kept asking for a little more comfort for the family, the builder responded. The result is the brand-new flagship 41 GT debuting at PBIBS. While the proven, wave-slicing hull stays the same, the cockpit layout is new. In place of the single bench seat, there are now three-across bucket seats with a second row behind. The wider console now has space for a pair of 22-inch Garmin screens, while the new extended hardtop features sun shades and even a rain shower. Outboard choices stay the same with either twin Mercury V12 600s, or four 400 hp Mercury V10s, good for a 65-knot-plus top speed. Pricing is from around $920,000.

Heesen ‘Book Ends’

Launched in 2022, this 164-foot Heesen is part of the Book Ends collection, owned by an American couple who have had more than 18 yachts with the same name. The exterior design of this Heesen was by Omega Architects, while Dutch studio Van Oossanen did the naval architecture. The yacht is part of Heesen’s fast cruising series, which is more efficient than other vessels its size, and can reach 23 knots at full speed with its MTU 16V 4000 M65L engines. The yacht is listed through Ocean Independence for 42 million Euro, or about $45.7 million.

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