Superyachts are privately owned vessels that are professionally crewed and are found in the greatest abundance in the Mediterranean, Caribbean and the Middle East. Although some of these yachts have not yet had their first voyage, the vessels not yet on the water are expected to be delivered before the end of 2010.
So, which super yachts rank as the largest in 2010?
1. Eclipse
Length: 533 feet; Top speed: 25 knots; Total power: N/A
With a reported price tag of nearly $1.2 billion, the Eclipse is not only the largest yacht, but also the most expensive. The Eclipse is due to be delivered later this year to Roman Abramovich.
2. Dubai
Length: 531 feet; Top speed: 26 knots; Total power: 38,500 hp
Although currently owned by Sheik Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum, the ruler of the Emirate of Dubai, the Dubai yacht was originally commissioned by Prince Jefri Bolkiah of Brunei. The construction was originally delayed until 2001 when Sheik Mohammed bought out the project for a rumored $300 million.
3. Al Said
Length: 508 feet; Top speed: 25 knots; Total power: 21,992 hp
Al Said, another royal super yacht makes the list, owned by the Sultan of Oman. The vessel features 6 decks and a concert room capable of accommodating a 50 piece orchestra. At its widest point, the ship measures nearly 79 feet across.
4. Prince Abdulaziz
Length: 482 feet; Top speed: 22 knots; Total power: 15,600 hp
Owned by the Saudi Royal Family, the Prince Abdulaziz was the largest yacht built in the 20th century, first setting sail in 1984. The vessel is used by the Saudi Royal Family for both official business and personal voyages.
5. El Horriya
Length: 478 feet; Top speed: 16 knots; Total power: 19,550 hp
The fifth largest yacht in the world is also one of the oldest super yachts still in operation. El Horriya was originally built in London in 1865 for the King of Egypt and the length was extended in 1872 and in 1905 and last refitted in 1987.
6. Al Salamah
Length: 457 feet; Top speed: 22 knots; Total power: 17,540 hp
The sixth largest yacht in the world is the Al Salamah, owned by Saudi Arabia’s defense minister Prince Sultan bin Abdul Aziz. Built in Germany by HDW and Lurseen Yachts, much of the ship is kept secret, but it is believed to have over 80 rooms, a helipad and an indoor swimming pool with a glass roof.
7. Rising Sun
Length: 454 feet; Top speed: 28 knots; Total power: 48,920 hp
Owned jointly by Oracle founder Larry Ellison and media mogul David Geffen, the Rising Sun is rumored to have been commissioned by Ellison to eclipse Paul Allen’s Octopus in size. Built in 2004 and refitted in 2007, the vessel has accommodation for up to 16 guests and 45 crew members.
8. Savarona
Length: 446 feet; Top speed: 18 knots; Total power: 6,600 hp
Once the world’s largest yacht, the Savarona was built in 1931 and had a length that was certainly ahead of its time. Originally intended for Presidential use, the vessel is owned by Turkey but had been leased to a number of clients in recent years. However on September 30th 2010, the vessel was reverted back to the Turkish state after being involved in a prostitution scandal involving a Kazakh businessman.
9. Serene
Length: 440 feet; Top speed: N/A; Total power: N/A
Built by Fincantieri Yachts and designed by Monaco’s Espen Oeino designers, the Serene is set to launch in 2010 and is currently being outfitted, according to SuperYachtTimes.com. When completed, it will be the largest yacht ever to be built in Italy.
10. Al Mirqab
Length: 437 feet; Top speed: 23 knots; Total power: 13,400 hp
At approximately 437 feet, the Al Miqab, is the 10th largest yacht in the world. Owned by Qatar’s Emir Hamad bin Jassim bin Jaber Al Thani, it was launched in 2008 and is estimated to value between $250 and $300 million. The vessel is considered one of the most beautiful in the world, awarded Motor Yacht of The Year and Best Interior Design at the World Super yacht Awards in 2009.
[Source and Photo: SuperYachts]