The world of superyachts has seen an unprecedented boom in recent years, with the affluent longing for an increasingly grandiose lifestyle on the water. The appetite for these expansive floating mansions is on the rise, as wealthy enthusiasts seek larger vessels. The appeal of superyachts is proving to be irresistible; post-COVID, many of the world’s elite shifted from luxury hotels—often shuttered during the pandemic—to these elaborate boats, seeking both comfort and privacy while they travel.
Paulo Trifirò, a seasoned superyacht owner, exemplifies this new generation of luxury yacht enthusiasts. Together with her husband, Trifirò has owned over a dozen yachts, each measuring more than 50 meters (approximately 164 feet) in length. These vessels are akin to floating five-star hotels, equipped with lavish amenities designed for indulgence. Trifirò takes an active role in the design of her yachts, emphasizing the need for spacious kitchens capable of preparing gourmet meals for her guests, often numbering up to 15. “If you are used to eating well, not everywhere in the world are there restaurants good enough,” she reflects, underlining her commitment to onboard dining experiences.
Trifirò’s choice of larger vessels also brings a sense of security when navigating through the open ocean. Reflections on her adventures, like sailing alongside majestic humpback whales or receiving warm welcomes from local fishermen in the Fijian islands, affirm her belief in the strength and safety of her sizeable yachts. The tranquility that superyachts provide, alongside the luxury they encapsulate, then demonstrates their growing significance in the lives of their owners.
According to the luxury-focused website Boat International, the definition of a superyacht encompasses any luxury yacht measuring 24 meters or more, complete with professional crew. As the COVID-19 pandemic receded, sales within this high-end market surged, highlighting changes in consumer behavior. A remarkable 1,024 new superyachts were either built or ordered globally in 2022, marking a 25% increase from the previous record year, 2021. The trend continued into 2023 with a further uptick to 1,203 new orders.
Barbara Armerio, co-owner of the Italian shipbuilding company Amer, shares her insights on this phenomenon. She indicates that after the pandemic, clients coveted their personal spaces even more than before. They requested larger windows, spacious exteriors, and better accessibility to the sea—all modifications reflecting a deepened appreciation for the oceanic experience. The post-pandemic landscape has therefore shaped a desire for not just larger, but more connected superyachts.
While the total number of yachts being constructed is expected to dip slightly in the upcoming year to an estimated 1,138, the average size of these vessels continues to expand. The increasing figures from Boat International show that more than 60 yachts measuring over 76 meters are in production, an elevation from the previous year’s figures. Moreover, dimensions of the 46 to 60-meter category have also increased from 159 to 175 units.
In addition to size, the customization and lavish amenities that come with today’s superyachts are astonishing. These engineering marvels frequently feature helipads, cinemas, gyms, beauty salons, and even saunas. Stewart Campbell, the Editor-in-Chief of Boat International, notes that regardless of the scale, designers and naval architects ingeniously maximize space within hulls, enhancing the onboard experience drastically from previous years.
The financial aspect of acquiring a superyacht remains staggering. Prices may start as low as €36 million for smaller models and can soar to a staggering €295 million for opulent 105-meter yachts, complete with all luxury specifications. Italy leads the charge in superyacht manufacturing, producing half of the world’s supply. The country is known for its skilled craftsmanship, with shipyards collectively building around 22 kilometers (approximately 13 miles) of superyachts. The record earnings of €8.3 billion by Italian shipbuilders in 2023 underscore the impressive growth of this luxury market.
As the nuances of superyacht ownership continue to evolve, the demographics of buyers are expanding as well. While many superyacht purchasers hail from the United States, there is a noticeable rise in affluent individuals from countries like Turkey, Indonesia, and Mexico, coinciding with their economic growth. However, the fallout of global events such as the Russia-Ukraine crisis has adversely impacted sales to Russian clients due to imposed sanctions.
Ultimately, the allure of superyachts lies in their capacity to facilitate adventure and discovery. Trifirò eloquently sums this experience, noting that the thrill of navigating new waters—coupled with the luxury offered by these modern vessels—fuels her passion for exploration. Investing in both the well-being of her crew and the allure of her yachts demonstrates her commitment to a fulfilling experience on the open sea. As superyachts become ever more extravagant, they embody not merely a mode of transport
