best yacht ports in the world

Top 15 elite superyacht marinas worldwide

There are thousands of ports and marinas around the world, and most of them are very charming, worthwhile places to visit. However, there are a few in particular that are simply irresistible to the superyacht set, boasting iconic facilities that see the world’s glitterati return time and time again to revel in their splendour.

Yachting Pages feels that these elite marinas deserve to be recognised, so we have compiled a list of 15 of the most luxurious superyacht and mega yacht marinas in the world. During your time on board, endeavour to tick off as many of these as you can. We promise you won’t be disappointed!

Marinas with Italian luxury

1. marina grande, capri.

We start with Marina Grande on the island of Capri, which is reportedly the most expensive marina in the world. With a real feel of exclusivity, berthing will need to be arranged many months in advance, especially during peak season. There are over 300 berths in total and the facility can accommodate superyachts of up to 60 metres or 197 foot.

The marina is nestled among striking cliffs and colourful, quaint buildings, offering a truly unforgettable experience. Sitting below the town, the marina is surrounded by a selection of luxury hotels and restaurants that offer some of the most spectacular views in the world, and numerous medieval villages.

Unsurprisingly, the island has a special allure for the rich and famous, with some of the world’s most extravagant yachts often found congregated here.

2. Marina di Porto Cervo, Sardinia

Listed as the world’s second-most expensive marina, Marina di Porto Cervo is located on the northern tip of Sardinia on the famous Costa Smerelda. Here daily berthing fees can exceed 2,500 euros during the high season, which gives an insight into just how desirable the marina is. Among the most expensive periods for berthing are the Deluxe Fair in June and the Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup Regatta in September.

The facility has up to 60 superyacht berths for yachts up to 100-metres (328-feet) long, During the summer, this is where the Italian jet-set takes their holidays, sailing and enjoying the beautiful landscape and coves. The list of celebrities spotted in Porto Cervo is endless, with model Kate Moss and pop superstar Rihanna known to have visited in the past. Famous for its lavish parties and nightlife, there’s even a “Billionaire Nightclub” for the select few that can afford it.

The surrounding area features a mix of unspoiled natural beauty and modern luxurious facilities, such as high-end boutiques and clubs.

3. Marina di Portofino, Genova

With only 14 berths for superyachts, and an average daily berthing price of well over 2,000 euros, Marina di Portofino is one of the most exclusive ports in the world. Again, due to a lack of berths, reservations will need to be made many months in advance, especially during peak season.

Originally a small fishing village set in a protected bay of green waters, Portofino has become an ultimate playground for the super-rich and famous, including the likes of Steven Spielberg, Coldplay frontman Chris Martin, and Rihanna (who must be working through our list).

Accessible by a single road—which is usually kept closed to keep the area secluded—the preferred mode of transport to Portofino tends to be boat giving Marina di Portofino a quiet and private feel.

Spanish style and Catalonian chic

4. ibiza magna, ibiza.

With a limited amount of superyacht berths, Ibiza Magna in the Balearic Islands has a certain feeling of both luxury and exclusivity. While certain marinas’ main allure may be their scenery, surroundings and views, there’s no doubt that the main draw to Ibiza Magna is the electric atmosphere.

Renowned for being a magnet for the young, rich and glamorous, some of the most famous faces in the world are frequently spotted on the ‘White Isle’. The marina itself fits perfectly with the itineraries of this crowd, as it’s located just minutes away from iconic nightclub, Pacha.

Ibiza Magna offers berths for yachts up to 60m (197ft), while larger vessels can drop anchor outside of the main harbour. The most popular (and expensive) time to visit is in September, when Ibiza plays host to the revered dance parties that bring the summer season to a close.

5. Puerto Banús, Marbella

Having firmly established itself as a hallmark location for luxury yachts, Puerto Banús in Marbella is another must-visit location for owners, guests and crew alike. Designed and built by property developer Jose Banús in 1970, it’s since become a popular stomping ground for the wealthy.

There’re over 900 berths in total across an area of 150,000 square metres, and while that’s plentiful in comparison to the others already listed, it may well cost over 2,400 euros per day to berth here. Its clientele includes some of the richest and most powerful people in the world, with reports suggesting the King of Saudi Arabia visits regularly.

The marina is protected by the Sierra de Marbella mountain range, and is surrounded by numerous designer shops, bars, restaurants and luxury homes. If that wasn’t enough, the marina is flanked on both sides by lovely beaches that regularly attract famous faces.

6. Port Vell, Barcelona

Originally built for the 1992 Olympic games, the marina has since been transformed, recently upgrading to become a five-star, 148-berth facility for superyachts up to 190m (623ft).

Situated in the heart of Barcelona, with idyllic views of the city and out across the sea, Port Vell has become a hugely popular destination with the world’s trendsetters. Yachts can berth a stone’s throw away from the city’s beautiful beaches and world-famous attractions, including the iconic Las Ramblas, the Gothic Quarter, Passeig de Gràcia and Camp Nou – the home of FC Barcelona.

As day turns into night the city’s thrilling nightlife comes to the fore. Fine-dining establishments showcase local gastronomic delights and modern fusions from renowned chefs, and the numerous bars and clubs offer up the perfect place to soak up Barcelona’s inimitable atmosphere; the perfect place to let your hair down.

As far as big-city marinas go, Port Vell in Barcelona is as good as it gets.

7. Port Tarraco, Spain

Just 64 berths are available at the tranquil Port Tarraco in Tarragona, which gives this well-equipped marina a sense of individuality from other marinas in mainland Spain. It ties in with the intriguing nature of the city, known for its charming ancient architecture and culture.

Where Ibiza Magna is a growing magnet for young and rich, Port Tarraco attracts those wishing for a little more serenity – those who want to absorb local culture at their own pace. It isn’t a celebrity hotspot, so it retains a sense of calm that other marinas have lost as a result of their showbiz allure.

Beyond Tarragona, Port Tarraco has the added bonus of sitting just below Barcelona, and being within easy reach of both Madrid and Valencia. It means there are a number of places to explore within a commutable distance of the marina, so plenty of different interests and personalities can be catered for.

The unique selling point of Port Tarraco is that it is completely different to almost everywhere else.

French-class marinas

8. port de saint tropez, france.

A jewel in the French Riviera, and one of the most famous ports in the world due to its heritage, Port de Saint Tropez offers over 700 berths for boats with an area covering 22 acres.

St Tropez is the quintessential celebrity destination; it offers the luxury restaurants, shops and expensive clubs that the world’s elite demand, while retaining its own quaint charm. It has a classic feel, with narrow streets and architecture belying its standing as a playground for the rich and famous.

Though the marina itself can only berth yachts up to 70m (230ft), larger vessels can frequently be found farther out at sea. With other highlights including the beaches along the Baie de Pampelonne and the iconic nightlife the region is known for, it’s unsurprising Port de Saint Tropez features on our list.

9. Port Hercule, Monaco

Monaco is among the most famous destinations in the world given its combination of luxury, wealth and extravagance. Its marina, Port Hercules, is no different. An opulent extension of the Principality’s flamboyant image; it’s surrounded by casinos, luxurious homes, grand hotels and incredible restaurants.

Event highlights include the Monaco Grand Prix in May, where guests watch the action from on board, and the Monaco Yacht Show in September. Though generally not the most expensive place to berth, during these times the mooring rates are, for want of a better word, astronomical.

Surrounded by steeply rising hills, Monaco’s Port Hercules is situated in an impressive setting and provides opportune access to Monaco’s range of attractions. Experiencing the views of the marina and town at night, when the bright lights of boats and buildings combine to create a truly spectacular sight, is an absolute must for anyone involved in the yachting industry.

10. Port Vauban, Antibes

Located on the French Riviera between the glamorous locations of Cannes and Monaco, Port Vauban is a suitably sophisticated destination in its own right. The International Yacht Club d’Antibes can accommodate 19 vessels from 70m to 170m (230ft to 558ft) and is equipped with all the modern amenities a yachtsman looks for in a high-end marina.

The result is many multi-million pound superyachts coming in to berth to sample the luxurious Riviera lifestyle, with “Billionaires Row” offering up some the most eye-catching superyachts currently on the water. The port is something of a focal point for the beautiful town, with multi-storey yachts dominating the skyline and providing a poetic contrast to the town’s ancient architecture.

Celebrated as one of the most popular destinations on France’s Mediterranean coast, it offers revealing, dream-inducing glimpses into the world of the rich and famous; a gateway to the celebrity world.

Marinas with eastern-Mediterranean mystique

11. porto montenegro, montenegro.

Set in the picturesque UNESCO-protected Bay of Kotor in Montenegro, with its diverse landscape and extensive stretches of coastline and mountain peaks, Porto Montenegro is fast claiming a stake as one of Europe’s most attractive marinas.

After recent upgrades, the facility now offers the ability to berth some of the world’s largest superyachts, measuring up to 250-metres (820-feet) long. This has brought a wealthier and more prestigious clientele to the marina who are keen to sample the lavish lifestyle Montenegro can offer. Some have fallen in love with the area, so much so that they’ve purchased multi-million pound apartments within the facility’s five-star Regent Hotel so they are always guaranteed a luxurious place to stay ashore.

The marina is complemented by a retail and entertainment village, which offers luxury waterside residences, restaurants, bars, designer boutiques and more.

From its mountainous landscape, covered with canyons, wildlife reserves and glacial lakes, to its uninhabited islands, secret coves and historical sites, the small country of Montenegro is now one of the most fashionable places to visit in Europe.

12. Grand Harbour Marina, Valletta

This time set against the scenic background of a UNESCO-world heritage site, among historic waterfront buildings and a metropolitan backdrop, Grand Harbour Marina is a truly breath-taking place to berth. Located opposite Valletta, Malta, the marina has berths for superyachts up to 140m (459ft) alongside and perfectly encapsulates the unique charm and style of the country.

On the quayside one can enjoy numerous stylish restaurants and bars, as well as the world famous Casino di Venezia. Other notable attractions in the vicinity of the marina include one of the world’s oldest golf courses and various exhilarating water-sport opportunities, with the waters around Malta considered to be among the best in the Mediterranean. It is also worth noting that Valletta has been chosen as the 2018 European Capital of Culture, guaranteeing a range of exciting celebratory events should you visit during the course of the year.

The marina boasts an array of modern services and amenities, which have been refurbished to the luxury standards the yachting elite expect of a top-class marina. The transformation, alongside its lengthy list of things to do, has catapulted Grand Harbour into the stratosphere of must-visit Mediterranean marinas.

Further afield

13. yas marina, abu dhabi.

Situated on Yas Island, Yas Marina in Abu Dhabi has firmly established itself as the premier Middle-Eastern destination for super and megayachts. The 227-berth marina caters for yachts up to 150m (492ft) and gives visitors access to sumptuous coastlines, uninhabited islands and the nearby cosmopolitan cities of Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

An expansion development plan was revealed in October 2013 to enhance the growth of Yas Island as a leading tourist destination, and has helped to transform the marina into a vibrant dining, lifestyle, fitness and entertainment centre. It features, among other things, seven new restaurants with panoramic views, a pedestrian promenade, charter operators, wellbeing facilities, a chandlery and big events throughout the year.

The leading attraction of Yas Marina is the Yas Marina Circuit, home to the annual Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and numerous other motorsport events and experiences. For a sports enthusiast, or someone who appreciates majestic track vehicles as much as those on water, it’s a coliseum of unmissable entertainment and drama. This alone makes Yas Marina well worth the trip.

14. Yacht Club Port de Plaisance, St Maarten

Yacht Club Port de Plaisance is one of the most elegant marinas in the Caribbean. It is renowned for its hive of activity and inimitable blend of culture, history and modern luxury, which encompasses a five-star hotel, a relaxing spa, top-class restaurants as well as a number of sports facilities.

A popular destination, the marina offers 90 berths for superyachts ranging from 12m (40ft) to 79m (260ft) – ideal for even the largest of charter vessels. Yacht Club Port de Plaisance offers all the amenities expected of a leading marina as well as a modern infrastructure that all visitors will feel comfortable with.

To further add to its appeal, the marina is also the first within the Caribbean to offer complimentary concierge services. Priding itself on sourcing everything that is requested, by even the most discerning of guests, Yacht Club Port de Plaisance’s team can ensure every visitor has an unforgettable trip to St Maarten.

15. Port de Gustavia, Saint Barths

During high season, Port de Gustavia in Saint Barts is one of the most select marinas on earth, due to its exotic location and climate during the winter period. It offers fantastic berthing opportunities for superyachts due to the amazing atmosphere of the area, modern facilities and scenic landscapes. It’s particularly popular at Christmas and New Year, where the rich and famous flock to see in the year under firework-lit skies, surrounded by Caribbean wildlife.

With only a small number of berths for large superyachts, it’s no surprise that it’s almost impossible to make a reservation during the high season.

Awaiting owners, guests and crew at St Barts are numerous luxury boutiques, perfect white-sand beaches and palm trees, delicious restaurants and a wild nightlife, all ensuring that Saint Barts is one of the most popular marinas and destinations for superyachts and mega yachts. 

Notable marinas

It was, of course, very difficult to restrict our list of the world’s top marinas to just 15, and there were a large number of others that were close to making the cut! From experiencing the delights of Port des Cannes during the Cannes Film Festival to the hilltop castle, pretty churches and striking towers surrounding  Port De Bonifacio , Corsica, it’s fair to say we agonised over which berths were simply the best.

Visit these 15 and let us know your thoughts !

Read our  top 10 up-and-coming marina  picks, or search for ports or marinas  for your next trip.

Tried & Tested

Green Chilli Provisioning and Yachting Pages hosted a unique event in Antibes. 11 superyacht chefs blind-tested 24 caviar types, judging appearance, aroma, texture, flavour, and overall impression.

Yachting Pages has put several of the leading safety cases (and other associated products) to the test. The objective: to ascertain how each product performs and determine which one is best equipped to safely contain a lithium battery-induced fire.

In the realm of maritime luxury, the quest to offer yacht charter guests the perfect night's sleep has become an art form, one which luxury bed and linen supplier, CC Design, has fully committed to.

VIRSEC's new course trains superyacht crew in cyber security, covering threat management, data protection, and complianc...

Boero YachtCoatings expands into Spain, focusing on personalised customer service and appointing Carla Ibañez as sales m...

Popular Articles

Finished reading now find your perfect supplier..

Search our industry-leading directory for over 20,000 superyacht suppliers, providers and marinas.

• Paddle Board

The Best Marinas in the World: Our Top Picks

Exploring the world on a yacht is something that we all dream about, but few achieve. Still, that doesn’t stop us from fantasizing about the lifestyles of the rich and famous. Superyachts litter the Mediterranean, UAE, and Caribbean coastlines, pulling into some of the most exclusive marinas in the world.

Who can forget Jeff Bezos requesting the Dutch Government dissemble a bridge so his yacht could pass? The super-rich doesn’t care about the cost of yachts or the trip; they just want it done. So, it makes sense that the marinas they choose to visit are the best in the world.

From Montenegro to the Virgin Islands, exclusive marinas act like floating hotels for the elite. Here are our top choices for the best marinas in the world.

Port Hercules, Monte Carlo – Monaco

The spectacular splendor of Port Hercules is a standout attraction in Monte Carlo. Hang out at the marina for long enough, and you’re sure to bump into movie stars, powerful business people, and politicians from around the world.

Monaco is one of the most exclusive tourist destinations on the planet. It represents opulence, luxury, and wealth, and Port Hercules is the pinnacle of marinas in the local vicinity. A slip at this luxury marina is in the millions of dollars, and that is why you’ll see only the largest superyachts and symbols of wealth at this venue.

While docking at Port Hercules is expensive, it is reasonable compared to the prices of its peers. What makes it stand out from the competition is the amazing natural beauty surrounding Port Hercules. There are steep hills surrounding the port, making it seem like an isolated area but within quick reach of the hotels and casinos.

Port de Saint Tropez – France

Around two hours’ drive from Port Hercules, you’ll find Port de Saint Tropez. This historical landmark is a cultural hub of Southern France and one of the top destinations along the French Riviera. The local heritage of the venue means you can spend hours wandering the streets on guided tours, learning about the cultural significance of the port.

This luxury marina has around 700-berths, covering a total area of nearly 22-acres. St. Tropez is one of the nightlife hotspots along the Riviera, with world-class shopping and restaurant experiences while maintaining its quaint, small-town persona.

It’s another meeting place of the rich and famous, and you’re sure to find a few celebrities and Fortune 500 CEOs walking around. The city walls and historical architecture wind around narrow streets, giving a cozy feel to the port town.

Marina di Portofino, Genova – Italy

Moving east from France, Italy offers some spectacular marinas with breathtaking scenery. A great example is Marina di Portofino. This port is one of the most recognizable globally, with a classic Mediterranean feel and look.

This iconic fishing village drips culture and history. Set off the coast of Genova, Marina di Portofino is a playground for the ultra-wealthy and celebrities. The lush green waters around the bay play host to superyachts from the likes of Rihanna and Steven Spielberg.

This quiet getaway is a hidden gem along the Italian coastline, and there’s only one road in and out of the area. You’ll often see supercars moving along the road coming to and from the marina.

Marina di Porto Cervo, Sardinia – Italy

Marina di Porto Cervo is possibly the most expensive marina globally for berthing. With daily docking fees averaging $3,000 and annual fees well north of a million dollars, this marina is only for the super-rich. Take a look around the berths, and you’ll see only the finest examples of yacht building in the world.

Located at the world-famous Costa Smeralda on the northern tip of Sardinia, Marina di Porto Cervo is one of the most exclusive venues in Europe. There are 60 highly sought-after berths, with waiting lists that extend for years.

The Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup Regatta in September and the Deluxe Fair in June attract tourists, and you’ll always see celebrities and the uber-rich walking around town. Denzel Washington and Kate Moss are known to frequent the location in the summer.

The area surrounding the marina features unspoiled beauty with breathtaking landscapes and luxurious amenities. You’ll find high-end luxury shopping, world-class restaurants, and swanky nightclubs in the town.

Marina Grande, Capri – Italy

Marina Grande on Capri island is another example of one of the world’s most expensive marinas. Berthing fees here can be north of $3,000 per day, and the marina has 300-spots available. This exclusive marina is a contender to Marina di Porto Cervo in the eyes of the rich and famous.

As a result, you’ll need to book a berth well in advance for any hope of securing your slip at this highly sought-after marina. Marina Grande can accommodate up to 180-foot superyachts. Cliffs surrounding the marina on all sides and the colorful architecture on the quaint town provide a dramatic landscape for visitors.

While it may look quaint, the town hosts world-class 5-star hotels and Michelin restaurants. You’ll find billionaires and the world’s elite dining at restaurants throughout the city. You’ll find plenty of luxurious boutiques spread through the alleys just off the high streets.

Watch the sunset paint the cliffs gold as the light fades, and enjoy the exclusive nightclubs around town as the warm evening air tickles your skin.

Porto Montenegro – Montenegro

Set in the UNESCO-protected Bay of Kotor, Porto Montenegro has a legendary status as one of Europe’s most sought-after destinations for superyacht owners. From billionaires to movie stars and titans of business, Porto Montenegro is a playground they all have on their list of top destinations.

The mountainous landscape surrounding the port is amazing to behold. The glacial lakes and canyons scattered around the region play host to a diverse range of wildlife, and they make for a beautiful backdrop. There are nearby uninhabited islands sprinkled across the ocean and loads of hidden coves to explore.

The marina recently underwent a facelift, and now, it plays host to some of the world’s longest and largest superyachts. The largest berths at this venue can accommodate superyachts up to 820-feet long. As a result, only the wealthiest clientele can afford or have the prestige to land a booking at this venue.

Port Vell, Barcelona – Spain

This venue is one of the newer marinas on this list. Port Vell is right next to the bustling cultural center of Barcelona. The Spanish originally built Port Vell for the 1992 Olympic games. However, after the end of the event, the authorities converted the venue into a 148-berth marina.

The berths can house superyachts up to 623-feet in length, and it’s another playground for the rich since it’s the gateway to Barcelona, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. Port Vell is another beautiful venue and a standout in the city. You get a classic Mediterranean feel to the port from the moment you arrive.

The city center is only a short walk from Port Vell, and the marvels of Barcelona await you. Dine-in exclusive restaurants and take in some world-class luxury window shopping. Enjoy one of the many popular nightclubs spread across the city. Known as a cultural hub of Europe, Barcelona promises you a tourist destination you’ll never forget.

Ibiza Magna, Ibiza –  Spain

Ibiza is one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in Europe. During the summer, the island nation lights up with millions of tourists from the UK, Europe, and around the world. The exclusive nightlife in Ibiza is like no other in the world, and it’s home to some of the most impressive super club venues.

Ibiza Magna sits tucked away in the Balearic Islands. The marina is away from the hustle and bustle of the tourist area, giving you a sense of exclusivity and luxury that’s unlike anything available in town. There’s a beautiful atmosphere of tropical relaxation and a Mediterranean feel to the marina that leaves you feeling isolated from the rest of the tourist venues around Ibiza.

Ibiza Magna is a haven for the rich and famous, and it’s a favorite with the younger crowd. The “White Isle” is a popular destination for the elite, with an iconic nightclub, “Pacha,” just a short drive away, and the casinos are close by.

Ibiza Magna caters to yachts up to 125-foot, and longer vessels can stay outside of the harbor and drop anchor during their stay.

Puerto Banús, Marbella – Spain

Banús in Marbella is one of the prize jewels on the Spanish coastline. It’s a prime spot for spotting some of the world’s most impressive superyachts. Founded by property developer Jose Banús in 1970, Puerto Banús, Marbella, was always intended to be a playground for the wealthy and famous.

The marina is home to more than 900-berths, covering a total area of 450,000-square feet. You’ll find a white sandy beach on either side of the marina and some of the best amenities in Spain. However, the price tag is steep to berth here, and you can expect to pay anywhere up to 2,400 euros per day during peak season.

This marina is favorited by Saudi royals and billionaires due to its exclusivity and privacy. The Sierra de Marbella mountain range overlooks the marina, providing spectacular scenery, and a cozy feel to the venue.

Around the marina, you’ll find high-end restaurants and luxury shopping, with plenty of bars and nightclubs. There are luxury homes with tens of millions of dollars nearby, and the whole area just oozes wealth.

Yas Marina, Abu Dhabi – UAE

For something different, we visit the United Arab Emirates. Yas Marina in Abu Dhabi sits nestled away on Yas Island. It’s the premier destination in the UAE for superyachts. The Saudi Royal family accounts for many of the most outrageous superyachts anchored in the water around the island.

The marina features 227-berths for superyachts up to 450-feet in length. Visitors to the marina have instant access to the pristine coastline and tours with small watercraft to uninhabited islands. In the evening, catch a private helicopter ride to enjoy the sights and sounds of Dubai.

Yas Island is currently under an expansion program, started in 2013. The island has plenty of fine dining and luxury shopping for people that don’t want to make the trip to Dubai. Yas Island also hosts the Yas Marina Circuit, home of the Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

As a result, you’re likely to see some of the wealthiest people in the world pull into the berths to watch the Grand Prix. Some of the planned developments to Yas Island include a water park, a Ferrari theme park, and expansion to residential areas and hotels.

Yacht Haven Grande, St. Thomas – US Virgin Islands

Located in St. Thomas in the US Virgin Islands, Yacht Haven Grande is One of the premier destinations for superyachts visiting the Caribbean. You’ll find the Haven along the Charlotte Amalie Harbor. The venue offers yacht owners side-to berthing for vessels measuring up to 140-feet.

The venue also hosts 48 slips with 20-foot concrete piers and docks, with amenities like laundry, catering, chandlery, and there’s also a florist. There’s a shopping mall nearby, with restaurants and entertainment venues for your needs.

Port de Gustavia, Saint Barths – Caribbean Islands

We wrap up with Port de Gustavia in Saint Barths. This venue is one of the most sought-after tourist destinations for superyacht owners during the high season. The exotic landscape of the location and the amazing weather makes it a playground for the uber-wealthy.

The island offers impressive modern luxury facilities. The scenery around the marina is absolutely breathtaking and everything you expect from a tropical island paradise. The marina has its high season over Christmas and the New Year. It’s a popular venue for partying. It has a tradition of launching a spectacular fireworks display on New Year’s Eve.

This exclusive marina only has a handful of berths for superyachts, making it challenging to find a reservation during the high season. Around the island, you’ll find white sand beaches, crystal blue waters, and palm trees swaying in the breeze.

John is an experienced journalist and veteran boater. He heads up the content team at BoatingBeast and aims to share his many years experience of the marine world with our readers.

What to Do If Your Boat Engine Won’t Start? Common Problems & How to Fix Them

How to launch a boat by yourself: complete beginner’s guide, how to surf: complete beginner’s guide to get you started.

Comments are closed.

Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.

NYK Group To Time-Charter Its First Methanol-fueled Bulk Carrier

Containership Loses Nearly 100 Containers In Severe Storm Off South Africa

World’s First Electric Flying Hydrofoil Passenger Ship Delivered To Saudi Arabia’s NEOM

Massive Fire Erupts On Soviet Aircraft Carrier Docked In China’s Yangtze River

10 Famous Yacht Marinas In The World

Yachting began in the 16th century when lightweight and easily manoeuvrable boats were built to evade pirates. Slowly, their designs and use evolved, and after the end of major world wars, they were mainly used for recreation as pleasure crafts.

In today’s world, yachts participate in regattas and several other competitions held around the world. Rich owners go on sea holidays on their comfortable and luxurious yachts, endowed with the most advanced features.

Additionally, the upkeep of the yacht requires substantial money and time. Hence, owners want their yachts to berth at the best yacht marinas with all the amenities to safely handle their prized possessions.

There are many famous yacht marinas in the world, which are both charming and offer excellent facilities. Ten such popular marinas are discussed in this article.

Table of Contents

1. Porto Montenegro

Montenegro is a famous tourist destination, with over 300,000 tourists visiting the southeastern European country in summer. It is a much-liked yachting destination and home to the biggest marina in the world in terms of size and capacity.

Porto Montenegro lies in Kotor Bay, which is a UNESCO-protected site. The yacht marina is perfect for luxury seekers as it offers high-end services, shopping stores and social events.

Visitors can choose leisure activities in its yachting club or relax in the waterfront luxury villas. It is the recipient of many awards and was named the Best Superyacht Marina in 2021. It has evolved into the most popular yachting marina in the Adriatic and the most modern and well-equipped one in the Mediterranean region.

It has 450 berths spanning 12-180 meters. Many facilities, such as yacht repair and maintenance, water sports, and cultural activities like music events, fashion shows and art exhibitions, can be enjoyed by visitors.

The waterfront has many multicuisine restaurants, spas, boutiques and the Naval Heritage Museum and Lido Mar- a big pool and bar constructed in the Venetian architectural style. Many exciting sailing regattas are also organised at the marina annually.

2. Dubai Harbour, UAE

Situated at the confluence of the grand Palm Jumeirah and Bluewaters, Dubai Harbour is a top-class marina in the UAE. It boasts a modern yet elegant cruise terminal that syncs with the gulf’s longstanding seafaring traditions.

The marinas of the Dubai Harbour cement the city’s position as a prominent maritime hub. It has 1100 berthing facilities and 3 bays that accommodate yachts measuring 160 metres or less.

It has an expansive shopping complex, a yacht club and also helipads. It is the perfect stopover point for luxury yachts and superyachts.

It is close to the international airport and has picturesque waterfront residences. The harbour is easily accessible from attractions like the Burj-al-Arab. The authorities offer VIP facilities to guests and ensure people can explore Dubai in a unique manner in its waters.

The cruise terminal covers 120,000 m2 and is an iconic entry point to Dubai. The two terminals can welcome the biggest cruise ships and are endowed with many entertainment facilities, leisure activities and retail offers.

3. Marina Grande, Capri

One of the oldest fishing settlements in Italy, Marina Grande on the island of Capri is the most expensive marina in the world, which redefines luxury and comfort. One can find congregations of yachts and superyachts owned by the world’s wealthiest in its berths.

Securing a berth is not easy, and one has to book several months in advance to visit this exotic marina with colourful houses, beautiful cliffs and lush hills. It is located below the main town and is enclosed by world-class restaurants and 5-star hotels offering breathtaking views.

The marina has more than 300 berths that welcome superyachts measuring up to 60 m or 197 feet. It is also the departure point for boats going to Blue Grotto.

While cruising in the adjacent waters, one can expect to see medieval villages, bungalows on rocky ridges, white sandy and pebbled beaches of Capri and the beautiful scenery as if it were a painting. Capri also has many nightclubs where people can party their hearts out.

It is the only port on the island and a busy one too. It handles yachts along with ferries. The harbour is well-linked to famous tourist spots such as the Piazetta. A bus stop is close to the port, and one can also take the traditional open-air taxis.

4. Port of Hercule, Monaco

Monaco is a luxury tourist destination, and the Hercule port is an extension of its affluent image. Lying in a natural bay at the end of an ancestral rock, Hercule is a deepwater harbour. It is enclosed by five-star hotels, resorts, casinos, pubs and clubs.

The yacht marina has 700 berths, including 30 visitor berths capable of accommodating yachts measuring 120 m and more. All are endowed with fresh water and electricity supply, public telephones, a self-service laundrette, and a garbage collection unit. There is wifi, a television and fuel service too.

The port was once used for trade by the Greeks and Romans; however, it was not well-sheltered from easterly winds. Hence, two piers were erected in the 20th century to solve this issue.

Port Hercule is filled with yachts when the Monaco Grand Prix is organised in May. Guests can enjoy the show from their yachts. Many yacht owners also participate in the grand Monaco Yacht Show held in September.

5. Limassol Marina, Cyprus

Cyprus is world’s one of the most famous and easily accessible islands. It is directly connected to many European and Gulf countries via Airways. Cyprus has kept up with the times, infusing modernity while retaining its age-old charm and natural beauty.

The island has peaceful coves, bays, streams and coastal resorts, all close to the Limassol Marina, which acts as a base to explore the island of Cyprus and enjoy its beauty. Apart from this, guests can go for watersports, especially scuba diving.

The modern marina has a team which round the clock to provide excellent hospitality to its guests and residents. It is operated by Francoudi & Stephanou Marinas.

The marina offers 650 berths for yachts measuring 110 metres or less. It also has 162 luxury apartments and 74 seaside villas. Not only this, but it also has many private berths that can be rented and direct beach access. The marina has several dining and shopping areas, a beauty and wellness centre etc.

It has a boatyard offering repairs and maintenance through its hundred-ton travel life, a 50-tonne trailer and a slipway. There is also a chandlery shop to meet all yachting needs.

6. Vilamoura Marina, Portugal

Vilamoura is the biggest marina in Portugal and has been voted the best year after year. It has 1300 berths and offers an array of services to its clients. The marina has grown steadily and is endowed with the latest technology to provide a seamless experience.

It is the key attraction of Vilamoura and has emerged as a true marine destination providing mooring to day cruisers and luxurious superyachts. It is a popular shopping hub featuring local craft shops to big brand stores. It is close to an environmental park, golden sand beaches, clubs and casinos.

It also has a boatyard with a slipway, a 60-tonne capacity crane, two lifts, forklifts, and stacks. Services like repair and maintenance, hull cleaning and towing are offered.

About 200 boats can be kept in its land storage area. Chandlers can be found in the reception areas and also several quays.

Guests can enjoy water sports like parasailing and jet skiing or charter a boat. There are golf courses, tennis courts and an equestrian centre too.

7. Port de Gustavia, Saint Barts

Saint-Barthelemy island is an exotic location in the Carribean Sea. The island’s famous port of Gustavia is one of the world’s most scenic and iconic natural harbours. It comprises two facilities: a marina for boats and yachts and a commercial trading port.

Its marina can accommodate 152 boats and superyachts measuring 152 m or less. It is easily accessible and close to the island’s airport. Customers can avail of many services, such as fuel supply, fresh water and electricity, free wifi etc. Fuel is available for small yachts and tenders at the commercial pier.

Its mesmerising location makes this marina special despite its limited number of berths. It is nestled between lofty hills, lush greenery and turquoise blue waters. It is almost impossible to make a reservation here during peak season when the rich flock here to relax and enjoy a perfect weekend. During Christmas, the firework show is also a sight to behold.

Near the marina are several boutiques, white sandy beaches, palm trees, cabanas, restaurants and an enchanting view.

8. Yalıkavak Marina, Turkey

One of the most famous marinas worldwide, the Yalikavak marina holds several titles and awards, such as Best Superyacht Marina Award in 2022. It is also a part of the British Yacht Harbour Association’s five gold anchors rating.

Yalikavak marina has 620 berthing facilities and offers excellent services through its well-trained and professional staff. Yachts having a maximum LOA of 140 metres are welcome here. Over a hundred superyachts visit the marina annually, including the iconic Eclipse, Saluzi, Heritage and many others.

The shopping alley is lined with numerous brand stores and boutiques. There is also a beach hotel and a fitness centre.

The marina is a part of the UNICEF platinum wings initiative, which helps disadvantaged children get their basic human rights.

About 1000 professionals are employed at the marina, which receives over 2 million guests from 120 nations. It promotes the image of Turkey as a prominent maritime tourism destination.

9. Marina Flisvos, Greece

Flisvos Marina lies in Paleo Faliro, just six km from Athens. It is the premier Greek Marina that offers mooring and other facilities for mega yachts. It has 303 berths, of which 50% are reserved for luxury yachts measuring more than 35 m.

It is the perfect leisure spot on the Athenian Riviera and covers over 6000 m2. The promenade is lined with trees, coffee shops, bakeries and dining spaces. Special events are also organised in the commercial complex every year and can be enjoyed by guests and visitors.

Other infrastructure includes a control tower for ensuring the safe movement of yachts, a helicopter landing area and two parking lots to accommodate 310 vehicles. One can go shopping and leave their children engaged at the famous children’s playland.

10. OneOcean Port Vell, Barcelona, Spain

The OneOcean Port Vell is a luxurious marina to accommodate huge yachts. It is ideally located at the heart of the city centre, close to the neighbourhood of Barceloneta and other attractive destinations such as the Las Ramblas, the Gothic Quarter and Camp Nou.

It was initially constructed for the 1992 Olympic games and has been upgraded since then. It has 148 mooring facilities or berths with a 9 to 14 m depth to welcome 190 m long superyachts. Work is underway to construct eight additional berths to welcome yachts between 30 to 8 metres.

The marina has a gymnasium, a cocktail bar and a famous restaurant with live music. The renowned club lies amidst Espanya and Barceloneta quay and can be entered from the Maremagnum recreation complex. There are also several shops to rent water sports equipment.

You might also like to read-

• Top 10 Most Expensive Private Yachts In The World
• The Ultimate Guide to Different Types of Boats – Top 20
• Top 10 Books on Yacht Design
• Types of Sailboats: A Comprehensive Classification
• Introduction To Different Types Of Yachts

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 recommendations on any course of action to be followed by the reader.

About Author

Zahra is an alumna of Miranda House, University of Delhi. She is an avid writer, possessing immaculate research and editing skills. Author of several academic papers, she has also worked as a freelance writer, producing many technical, creative and marketing pieces. A true aesthete at heart, she loves books a little more than anything else.

Read More Articles By This Author >

Disclaimer : The information contained in this website is for general information purposes only. While we endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

In no event will we be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from loss of data or profits arising out of, or in connection with, the use of this website.

Do you have info to share with us ? Suggest a correction

Daily Maritime News, Straight To Your Inbox

Sign Up To Get Daily Newsletters

Join over 60k+ people who read our daily newsletters

By subscribing, you agree to our  Privacy Policy  and may receive occasional deal communications; you can unsubscribe anytime.

BE THE FIRST TO COMMENT

Leave a reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Subscribe to Marine Insight Daily Newsletter

" * " indicates required fields

Marine Engineering

Marine Engine Air Compressor Marine Boiler Oily Water Separator Marine Electrical Ship Generator Ship Stabilizer

Nautical Science

Mooring Bridge Watchkeeping Ship Manoeuvring Nautical Charts  Anchoring Nautical Equipment Shipboard Guidelines

Explore 

Free Maritime eBooks Premium Maritime eBooks Marine Safety Financial Planning Marine Careers Maritime Law Ship Dry Dock

Shipping News Maritime Reports Videos Maritime Piracy Offshore Safety Of Life At Sea (SOLAS) MARPOL

Find anything, super fast.

• Destinations
• Documentaries

Where To Spot The Largest Top 100 Superyachts in the World

By Frances Flannagan

Ranging between 90 and 180.6 metres, the world’s Top 100 superyachts undoubtedly require the largest and most premium marinas to anchor, as well as those on board desiring the most luxurious destinations. We take a look at three of the prime locations to spot the world’s largest and most breathtaking vessels, each featuring a state-of-the-art marina to accompany the world-class destination.

Barcelona 

Marina Port Vell is one of the Mediterranean's most premium marinas, located in the heat of the thriving city of Barcelona. This marina has 60 berths that can accommodate superyachts up to 190m in length, making it the prime destination for attracting the largest superyachts in the world. Impressively, Marina Port Vell can even accommodate 180.6m AZZAM, the largest superyacht in the world. 

Alongside staggering berths, the marina offers world-class facilities, a variety of activities and bespoke services 24 hours a day within the unique location of the European city. This means that superyacht owners can not only enjoy the impeccable maritime services offered at the marina, but can also explore the city’s breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture and world-renowned dining scene. 

Marina Port Vell offers a plethora of unparalleled opportunities for superyacht owners, guests, captains and crew. Not only located in the spectacular city of Barcelona, the marina is also a celebrated location in itself: it has previously hosted the MYBA Charter Show and is set to be the preferred marina for the 37th Americas Cup, as well as being the premium venue of choice for many quality brands, including Maserati, Aston Martin and Montblanc.  

The home of unprecedented glamour and luxury, it is only fitting that some of the world’s biggest and best superyachts can often be spotted in the exquisite location of Dubai. Dubai Harbour Marina is the country’s newest and most impressive marina, able to accommodate yachts up to a staggering 160m and therefore the perfect location for Top 100 superyachts.

Dubai features a range of activities for superyacht travellers, including everything from luxury shopping opportunities, premium hospitality, the cultural allure of the historical quarter as well as the pristine white sand beaches and emerald waters. This makes it a world-class destination for superyachts beyond marina facilities, and therefore a popular choice for the world's largest vessels as those on board can soak up the variety of exciting offerings.

Dubai Harbour also enables direct access into the open waters of the Arabian Gulf with no air draft limits, perfect for Top 100 superyachts. Dubai is also home to the most advanced cruise terminal and the largest marina in the region. 

Cairns, Australia

Considered the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns is a stunning superyacht destination that combines the world’s most exquisite natural beauty with unmatched luxury. Cairns Marlin Marina makes it an even more popular location for Top 100 superyachts, not only because of its location, but due to its ability to berth vessels up to 140m in length. 

The marina is located just a short walk away from the tropical swimming lagoon, a series of five-star hotels, and exceptional shopping and dining prospects; showcasing Cairns to be a hot spot for luxury travel. Furthermore, alongside being positioned in a tranquil oasis, it is also in close proximity to the city’s vibrant nightlife scene, meaning that superyacht owners can make the most of blissful travel as well as bustling city life. 

With 84 of the Top 100 vessels having an LOA of 140 metres or less, Cairns Marlin Marina is a perfect place to spot some of the world’s largest vessels. 

There are a number of notable Top 100 destinations that don't have marinas able to accommodate these megayachts, but still attract the largest vessels from all over the world. The Caribbean is a superyacht hotspot, St Barths and St Vincent & The Grenadines in particular offering the most stunning selection of blissful beaches and clear waters for a relaxation retreat like no other. 

The Meditteranean sees many superyachts gather in Gibraltar, a European haven with beautiful landscapes and a wealth of culture, as well as Monaco: a location of the utmost luxury, and arguably, one of the most famous hubs for yachts.

"Marina Port Vell boasts a unique position at the heart of this bustling, cosmopolitan city of limitless possibilities." Marina Port Vell

"Marina Port Vell boasts a unique position at the heart of this bustling, cosmopolitan city of limitless possibilities."

Related News

Featured events.

Please use a modern browser to view this website. Some elements might not work as expected when using Internet Explorer.

• Why Charter Homepage
• Luxury Yacht Vacation Types
• Corporate Yacht Charter
• Tailor Made Vacations
• Luxury Exploration Vacations
• ALL 3,697 Yachts For Charter
• Motor Yachts
• Sailing Yachts
• Classic Yachts
• Catamaran Yachts
• Special Offers
• by Destination

Yacht Reviews

• Destination Guides
• Inspiration & Features
• Mediterranean Charter Yachts
• France Charter Yachts
• Italy Charter Yachts
• Croatia Charter Yachts
• Greece Charter Yachts
• Turkey Charter Yachts
• Bahamas Charter Yachts
• Caribbean Charter Yachts
• Australia Charter Yachts
• Thailand Charter Yachts
• Dubai Charter Yachts
• Destination News
• New To Fleet
• Charter Fleet Updates
• Industry News
• Yacht Shows
• Corporate Charter
• Charter Advice
• Why Use a Yacht Broker
• Charter Costs Explained
• Add my yacht

• Yacht Charter Fleet

10 of the World’s Top Superyacht Marinas

From iconic ports along the french riviera to newly built facilities in the latest yachting hotspots, there are a multitude of marinas across the globe offering state-of-the-art superyacht facilities, exclusive entertainment options and access to some of the finest cruising grounds..

Superyacht marinas are more welcoming and better equipped than ever before and, whether looking for a bustling urban stop-off or a more exclusive island retreat, this top 10 article will inspire you to seek out some of the best ports and harbours on your next private yacht charter .

• READ MORE ABOUT:
• Mediterranean

• See All Reviews

Featured Luxury Yachts for Charter

This is a small selection of the global luxury yacht charter fleet, with 3697 motor yachts, sail yachts, explorer yachts and catamarans to choose from including superyachts and megayachts, the world is your oyster. Why search for your ideal yacht charter vacation anywhere else?

136m | Lurssen

from $4,368,000 p/week ♦︎

115m | Lurssen

from $2,831,000 p/week ♦︎

85m | Golden Yachts

from $980,000 p/week ♦︎

88m | Golden Yachts

from $1,179,000 p/week ♦︎

84m | Feadship

from $1,072,000 p/week ♦︎

93m | Feadship

from $1,501,000 p/week ♦︎

Maltese Falcon

88m | Perini Navi

from $490,000 p/week

122m | Lurssen

from $3,000,000 p/week

As Featured In

The YachtCharterFleet Difference

YachtCharterFleet makes it easy to find the yacht charter vacation that is right for you. We combine thousands of yacht listings with local destination information, sample itineraries and experiences to deliver the world's most comprehensive yacht charter website.

San Francisco

• Like us on Facebook
• Follow us on X
• Follow us on Instagram
• Find us on LinkedIn
• Add My Yacht
• Affiliates & Partners

Popular Destinations & Events

• St Tropez Yacht Charter
• Monaco Yacht Charter
• St Barts Yacht Charter
• Greece Yacht Charter
• Mykonos Yacht Charter
• Caribbean Yacht Charter

Featured Charter Yachts

• Maltese Falcon Yacht Charter
• Wheels Yacht Charter
• Victorious Yacht Charter
• Andrea Yacht Charter
• Titania Yacht Charter
• Ahpo Yacht Charter

Receive our latest offers, trends and stories direct to your inbox.

Please enter a valid e-mail.

Thanks for subscribing.

Search for Yachts, Destinations, Events, News... everything related to Luxury Yachts for Charter.

Yachts in your shortlist

Top 5 Best Marinas In the World 2022

As the world is slowly coming to terms with the current global pandemic, the boat and ocean-industries are also slowly seeing more and more events being scheduled, whilst less and less cancellation calls are coming in from government officials and companies alike. It’s about time, huh? 

As we over at YachtInformer.com start planning our upcoming trips and must-attend yacht shows around the world, we thought it’d be worth sharing some of our thoughts on what we believe makes a great marina truly remarkable, and which ones are worth the extra mile. Let’s dive into the best marinas in the world 2022!

Port Hercules, Monaco

If you’re a fan of superyachts and boats in general, the grandiose marina of Port Hercules is a definite must. Monaco is among one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in the world due to the luxurious, glamorous and wealthy lifestyle it encapsulates, and Port Hercule is no different. 

Even though the sovereign state of Monaco boasts a rich aura throughout it’s skyscrapers, casinos and hotels, the price for berthing at Port Hercules is actually more affordable compared to some of its peers.

However, the main reason for claiming our top-spot today is its incredible surroundings. Situated in an impressive setting surrounded by steep rising hills, both the port itself and Monaco’s tourist attractions can be experienced simultaneously in a truly unique manner. For example, experiencing the views of the marina and town at night, an ocean of shimmering lights of boats and buildings combine to create a truly spectacular sight, and is an absolute must for anyone involved in the yachting industry. 

Port de Saint Tropez, France

Just shy of a 2-hour drive away from Monaco and Port Hercules, we find the historical hub of Port de Saint Tropez . A gem perched in the heart of the French Riviera, and one of the most famous and important ports in the world due to its heritage, this lavish marina boasts about 700 berths spread over 22-acres. 

St Tropez in itself is a highly popular destination for both tourists and celebrities alike, as it offers world-class restaurants, shops and nightclubs, all whilst keeping the quaint charm of the town’s glorious maritime history. 

St Tropez has a classic and French feel pulsating through the city walls, courtesy of the narrow streets and historical architecture, which made it a favoured playground for the rich and famous. 

Marina di Portofino, Genova

The Marina di Portofino is one of the most recognised ports in the world due to its unmistakable Italian feel. And who doesn’t love a slice of Italy on a warm summer’s day?

Originally a small fishing village on the coast off Genova, set in a protected bay of lush green waters, Portofino has become an ultimate playground for the super-rich and famous for good reason. With a few admirers such as Steven Spielberg, Coldplay frontman Chris Martin, and Rihanna.

And the YachtInformer team, of course. 

In order to keep the quiet, picturesque and private feel of the town, there’s only one road to access this little italian getaway, which the municipality have decided to keep closed in order to promote the traditional way of transportation. By boat.

Or a yacht, if you’re able to get your hands on one. 

Port Vell, Barcelona

A younger contender on the list – compared to Port de Saint Tropez for example, which has a few hundred years to its name – is the innovative marina Port Vell , situated in the heart of the ever-sunny Barcelona.

Port Vell was originally established for the 1992 Olympic games, but has since grown to become a 148-berth facility for superyachts up to 190-metres (623ft). Which means every single yacht on the planet. Even Azzam, the worst longest yacht, has a solid 10m to spare. 

The ‘Flying Foil’ Superyacht called Plectrum

As you pull into Port Vell, you’re greeted by idyllic views of the Mediterranean hotspot, only a stone’s throw away from the city’s main attractions. Imagine a sunny Las Ramblas, a restaurant-packed Gothic Quarter, numerous scenic beaches, as well as a sold-out Camp Nou, home of FC Barcelona. If you’re in the mood for a city holiday, it doesn’t get much better than that

And as the evening rolls around, the city’s thrilling nightlight comes to the fore. Showcasing some of Europe’s best gastronomic experiences, local bars and resounding nightclubs, the city becomes the perfect place to soak up the finest social delights of life.

Porto Montenegro, Montenegro

Another marina which has definitely earned its right on this list is Porto Montenegro . Set in the colourful UNESCO-protected Bay of Kotor in Montenegro, Porto Montenegro is fast claiming a stake as one of Europe’s most attractive and sought-after marinas.

Through a different lens, Porto Montenegro is set apart through its mountainous landscape, scattered with canyons, serene wildlife reserves and glacial lakes. Furthermore, its uninhabited islands, hidden coves and historical sites, the small country of Montenegro has become one of the most fashionable places to visit in Europe.

After the facility went through a row of recent updates, it now offers the ability to berth some of the world’s largest superyachts, capable of catering for yachts up to 250-metres (820-feet) long. Subsequently, this has brought a wealthier and more prestigious clientele to Porto Montenegro, who are keen to induce in the lavish lifestyle the country has to offer.

For more information on advertising or partnering with us, just email, call or message us at the details

Shoot us an email at  [email protected]  or send us a message  here !

The 2024 Cannes Yachting Festival: Setting Sail for Luxury

Discovering the Nomad 101 Superyacht: Setting Sail in Style

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

MYBA Charter Show, Barcelona April 2023

Riva 180 Years – Celebrating in Milan this Weekend!

Ferretti Yachts 860:The Latest Creation From an Historic Shipyard

The Story Behind 79m Princess Mariana Superyacht – Yacht Informer in Acapulco

Next Generation Yacht Design: Meet 80m Superyacht Symbiosis

© 2022 my media group ltd   |   privacy policy.

672 Wine Club

• Motorcycles
• Car of the Month
• Destinations
• Men’s Fashion
• Watch Collector
• Art & Collectibles
• Vacation Homes
• Celebrity Homes
• New Construction
• Home Design
• Electronics
• Fine Dining
• Benchmark Wines
• Brian Fox Art
• Disneyland Resort
• Gateway Bronco
• Royal Salute
• Sports & Leisure
• Health & Wellness
• Best of the Best
• The Ultimate Gift Guide

The World’s Best Superyacht Shipyards

We highlight the top yards crafting the most spectacular yachts on the planet., geri ward's most recent stories.

• From a Hybrid Gigayacht to a Go-Fast Tender, Here Are the Best Vessels of the Year
• How Ferraris and Lamborghinis Inspired This New Line of Italian Yachts
• Inside the 161-Foot Italian Superyacht Designed for a Multi-Generational Family
• Share This Article

From Germany to the Netherlands, Italy, and the United States, the superyacht industry employs highly skilled craftsmen and women at shipyards around the globe. The handcrafted vessels can be seen in bodies of water from the Mediterranean to the Bahamas, providing enjoyment—and jobs—for those on board. Here we highlight the top 20 superyacht shipyards in the world.

Related Stories

• This New 2,100 HP Rimac Makes One of the World’s Fastest EVs Even Faster
• This New Dodge Durango Hellcat Might Be the Last With a Hemi V-8 Engine

Meet Zephyr, a Giant 378-Foot Megayacht With Not One But Two Pools

Lürssen.

The German name tops the list, having built 11 out of 20 of the world’s largest superyachts in the last two decades. The 145-year-old family shipyard’s largest yacht, Azzam , spans 592 feet, 6 inches. Imagine six football fields laid end to end, with dozens of staterooms and saloons filled with beautiful woodwork, custom furniture, and art, all inside a high-tech hull. That 2013 launch was followed by others like 512-foot Dilbar and this year’s 364-foot Project Tis .

Lürssen Dilbar, designed by Espen Øino.  Photo: Josep Baresic

Still owned and managed by the Lürssen family, the company’s ability to consistently produce so many floating masterpieces is directly proportional to its skilled workforce and vast facilities. After recent acquisitions, including the famed Blohm & Voss yard, Lürssen owns eight shipyards across Germany. Its staff, some of the most experienced of any superyacht builder, include 400 designers, 600 engineers, 1,600 skilled workers, and 200 apprentices.

Lürssen’s Bremen shipyard.  Courtesy of Lürssen

After launching the company in 1875, Friedrich Lürssen declared: “My firm shall be known as a leader in both quality and performance.”

With his name attached to the world’s largest yachts , Friedrich’s words have taken on a greater significance than he could ever have imagined.

Abeking & Rasmussen’s Elandess at the shipyard.  Photo: Courtesy Abeking & Rasmussen

Abeking & Rasmussen

Located across the river from Lürssen’s Lemwerder yard, Abeking & Rasmussen has created advanced running surfaces, like its Swath hull that skips over turbulent ocean waves rather than pounding across. The name is known for commercial and military vessels as well as custom yachts.

Abeking & Rasmussen’s Cloudbreak.  Christopher Scholey

Its award winners include the 237-foot Cloudbreak , which set new design standards for expedition yachts, and the 244-foot Elandess , featuring its “Nemo Lounge” with a window below the waterline. Abeking’s flagship, the 321-foot Aviva , is unique among yachts its size with an unmatched interior volume that includes a regulation-sized paddle-tennis court .

Aviva’s paddle-tennis court.  Photo: Abeking & Rasmussen

The 112-year-old yard is typically ahead of the latest trends. It is developing a hybrid fuel cell powered by methanol that emits only clean steam. The system could well be the first hydrocarbon-emissions-free propulsion in the yachting world.

Feadship Amsterdam Yard.  Photo: Courtesy of Feadship

Formed as a group in 1949, Feadship is probably the most famous name among the Dutch builders. Feadship is comprised of the De Vries and Van Lent family yards, with locations in Aalsmeer, Makkum, Kaag, and Amsterdam. The group also includes De Voogt Naval Architects .

Feadship’s 312-foot Faith.  Photo: Courtesy of Feadship

Feadship, credited with dozens of custom launches over the last seven decades, has grown into Holland’s superyacht powerhouse. In the 2015, it launched 333-foot Symphony , the first Feadship to cross the 100-meter mark. Faith , a stunning 312-footer launched two years later, has a streamlined profile and helicopter pad with hangar on the foredeck and swimming pool with glass floor (forming the ceiling of the beach club below) on the aft deck.

Feadship Hasna.  Photo: Courtesy of Feadship

Last year, Feadship launched a half-dozen other yachts, including 241-foot Sherpa . Its expedition-yacht exterior, including two industrial-looking exhaust stacks on the aft cockpit, shows Feadship’s design capabilities. Its Project 814, with its vertical bow and long, lean forefoot, will be an example of an entirely new look, when launched later this year.

Nobiskrug Sailing Yacht A.  Photo: Courtesy of Nobiskrug

Specializing in made-to-measure, custom-built superyachts, award-winning builder Nobiskrug produces its vessels out of three different facilities in northern Germany: Rendsburg, Kiel-Gaarden, and Kiel-Friedrichsort. The yard was established in Rendsburg in 1905, shortly after the Kiel Canal opened in 1895. Today Nobiskrug employs more than 1,000 highly skilled craftsmen and women across the three shipyards. In-house production includes hull construction, steel cutting, mechanical work, fitting, pipe fitting, paint, electrical, and carpentry, with these workshops organized under one roof.

Shown above is the brand’s Best of the Best winner A , designed by Philippe Starck and built by Nobiskrug, the yacht is a 470-foot sail-assisted motor yacht that was delivered in 2017.

Nobiskrug Mogambo.  Photo: Courtesy of Nobiskrug

Nobiskrug’s 241-foot Mogambo won Robb Report ‘s Best of the Best award in 2013. Featuring both interiors and exteriors by UK-based Reymond Langton Design, Mogambo is a great example of Nobiskrug’s past projects.

Nobiskrug’s hybrid superyacht Artefact.  Photo: Courtesy of Nobiskrug

Representing the future of the company, Nobiskrug’s hybrid superyacht Artefact (ex-project 790) was revealed last fall in Monaco and is scheduled for a 2019 delivery. With an exterior by Canada’s Gregory Marshall Studio and interior by Reymond Langton Design, the yacht features numerous eco-friendly characteristics, such as lower emissions and a quieter ride. It also utilizes a Dynamic Positioning System to hold its position for longer, delaying the need for sea-bed-damaging anchors.

Amels Shipyard.  Photo: Courtesy of Amels

Amels celebrated its centennial in 2018, but the superyacht builder has modern facilities and one of the industry’s smartest business plans. It was acquired by the Damen Group in 1991, which gave it the financial resources and vision to become one of the most respected custom yacht builders. Ten years ago, it launched a Limited Editions range. Built on proven hull platforms from 180 to 272 feet, owners have a choice of customizing both the interior and exteriors. Close to 40 yachts have been delivered since, proving that the disruptive concept has a place in yacht-building.

Amels Limited Editions 242.  Photo: Schöningh Wulffraat

The Amels’ yard in Vlissingen has two climate-controlled bays, one 475 feet and the other 670 feet, for multiple new builds or refits. Its second yard in Vlissingen East has a climate-controlled bay, measuring 705 feet.

Amels Volpini 2.  Photo: Courtesy of Amels

Used for military and commercial vessels, it has the facilities and skilled workers to handle the world’s largest custom, steel-hulled yachts. Noteworthy launches last year include 243-foot Universe , 205-foot Sea & US , and 189-foot Volpini 2 .

Oceanco launches 110-meter Jubilee.  Photo: Francisco Martinez Photography

Oceanco is a relative newcomer, but it has created some of the world’s most beautiful custom superyachts. Names like the recently launched 295-foot DAR are great examples, but the yard has also built technically advanced vessels like the 350-foot sailing superyacht, Black Pearl , with some of the most advanced sails ever designed. Its other award winners like Jubilee , Aquijo , and Infinity , retain their own unique DNA. The yard has worked with the most sought-after yacht designers, including Terence Disdale , Nuvolari-Lenard , Espen Øino , Sam Sorgiovanni , Igor Lobanov , Tim Heywood , and Andrew Winch .

Oceanco Bravo launch.  Photo: Francisco Jose Martinez Mendez

The Alblasserdam yard is working on 357-foot Project Bravo , the first Oceanco with its proprietary LIFE design (lengthened, innovative, fuel-efficient, and eco-friendly). Bravo will combine hybrid propulsion, weight savings, and extra interior space in a package that could be a game-changer for yachting. “Our approach with Bravo was to maintain a stunningly sleek profile without sacrificing interior space,” says designer Dan Lenard. “The new exterior style concept is bound to create a new design stream.”

The superstructure is lowered over the hull of Project Triton.  Photo: Dick Holthuis

Among the Dutch builders, Heesen has seen the greatest expansion of its model line, which is available in aluminum and steel. Its recent launches range from the 164-foot futuristic hybrid, Home , to more conventional designs like the 180-foot Laurentia . The yard really started its upward trajectory in 2011 with the simultaneous launches of Quinta Essentia and Satori, two very different yachts that captivated the superyacht world.

Heesen Home.  Photo: Courtesy Dick Holthuis Photography

Two years later, Galactica Star , the first fast-displacement yacht, showed that Heesen lived in a world where design and technology intersect. Its largest-ever build, 230-foot Galactica Super Nova , was a sign that Heesen can move into larger categories. The yard has drawings of an ultra-modern 83-meter custom Maximus concept, complete with an entirely open cockpit and swimming pool with waterfall, waiting for the right owner.

A Delfino 95 emerges from the shed at Benetti’s Viareggio yard.  Photo: Courtesy of Benetti

Benetti is not only the world’s largest superyacht builder, it is also one of the oldest. Started in 1875, the Italian builder always has a parade of custom and semicustom builds. The Azimut Benetti Group now has 97 yachts under build over 78 feet. In the last year, Benetti has launched a range of yachts, including Ironman , its sixth Fast 140, 207-foot custom Metis and 226-foot Spectre .

Benetti Spectre.  Courtesy of Benetti

Benetti also recently launched its largest-ever build, 351-foot FB277, one of three gigayachts currently being built in its Livorno yard. The other two are due to launch this year. The world’s largest superyacht builder continues to push the boundaries in design and technology, as it moves into gigayacht territory that the yards in Northern Europe have dominated for years.

CRN’s superyacht yard.  Photo: Courtesy of CRN

The 262-foot Chopi Chopi was a landmark yacht for CRN when it launched in 2013, showing that the Italian yard could go toe-to-toe with the yards in Northern Europe. Chopi Chopi is still CRN’s largest build to date, but the Ancona facility has launched a succession of custom yachts that have established CRN’s place as the crown jewel of the Ferretti Group. The military exterior of 180-foot Atlante , sleek hull of 239-foot Yalla , or stunning, high-tech interior of its most recent launch, Cloud 9 , show the range of the custom builder.

CRN’s Cloud 9 superyacht.  Photo: Maurizio Paradisi

CRN’s current builds include a 260-foot tri-deck motor yacht, a pair of 203-footers with low superstructures and vertical bows, and a 164-foot Superconero , a modern version of the 1970s SuperConero that defined CRN. Ferretti has invested about $10 million to upgrade the Ancona yard, with plans to invest another $15 million.

Baglietto Shipyard.  Photo: Emilio Bianchi

Baglietto is one of Italy’s most revered yacht names, having started in 1840 when Pieto Baglietto built small wooden fishing boats in his backyard. The company built boats for kings and popes, and put the first combustion engine into an 80-foot yacht in 1906. After being rescued from bankruptcy by the Gavio Group, a multinational corporation owned by a yacht-loving family, Baglietto has experienced a renaissance. Both its production facility, which gained a $25 million facelift, and model line, ranging from 43 to 230 feet, are now state of the art.

Baglietto’s Silver Fox.  Photo: Federico Ferretti

Francesco Paszkowski, Italy’s most revered yacht designer, does the lion’s share of design for Baglietto, but the builder recently unveiled other concepts by Milan-based Hot Lab and Santa Maria Magnolfi for its midrange superyachts. Baglietto is offering these very different designs on five proven hull platforms. Its 230-foot flagship is from Mulder Design in the Netherlands.

Rossinavi Aurora.  Photo: Courtesy of Rossinavi

Rossinavi ’s recent launches are some of the most inspired designs in the superyacht world. The 2017 launches, 160-foot  Endeavour II and 161-foot  Aurora , are as different in design as chalk and cheese. The yard worked with Achille Salvagn i on both interiors. Salvagni, known for his stylized residential interiors and whimsical decor, brought a fresh sensibility to both yachts that gave them very distinct personalities.

Rossinavi’s Custom Utopia IV.  Photo: Courtesy of Rossinavi

Last year, the yard launched two more inimitable yachts, 206-foot  Utopia IV and 161-foot  Flying Dagger . Utopia IV is unique among superyachts because of its top end of 33 knots, with transatlantic range. Always on the lookout for new ideas, Rossinavi has unveiled concepts with Pininfarina, designer of many Ferrari models, and the Phantom 62, a sleek, futuristic design by Enrico Gobbi.

Sanlorenzo’s superyacht yard.  Photo: Silvano Pupella

With headquarters in Ameglia and other yards in Viareggio, Massa, and La Spezia, Sanlorenzo is ranked among the top three builders of yachts over 80 feet. In the last two years it has introduced a 118-foot planing yacht, a 210-foot 64Steel (due out this year), the 171-foot custom Seven Sins —not to mention the flagship of its explorer line, the 164-foot 500EXP Ocean Dreamwalker III , which it launched at the last Monaco Yacht Show . The light-blue steel hull shows the style that Sanlorenzo gives to each new launch.

Sanlorenzo SL102 Asymmetric Yacht.  Photo: Courtesy of Sanlorenzo

The recently introduced SL102 employs an asymmetric exterior design , with an outer walkway on just one side of the boat to increase interior volume.

The hull of the 56-meter motor yacht in the Perini Navi Voyager line, designed in partnership Philippe Briand, arrives in La Spezia from the Yildiz shipyard in Istanbul.  Photo: Courtesy of Perini Navi

Perini Navi

The Perini name extends across a succession of groundbreaking yachts from 289-foot  Maltese Falcon , which had a DynaRig sail plan that was designed from a theory, to the ultimate blue-water cruiser, the 229-foot  Sybaris , through to the flagship of Monaco’s 2017 show, the 1 97-foot  Seven .

Perini Navi Seven.  Photo: Courtesy Perini Navi

Since a management restructuring in 2017, Perini Navi has introduced multiple new lines , including its E-volution sailing yacht series and three styles of motor yachts—Argonaut, Heritage, and Voyager. With two yards in Italy and a third in Turkey, Perini now has three sailing yachts under construction, including two 138-foot E-volutions. Its three motor achts under build include two Philippe Briand–designed 53 and 56 Voyagers, as well as its 82-foot hybrid-powered Eco-tender. The brand’s new energy promises a bright future.

Sunseeker’s shed.  Photo: Courtesy of Sunseeker

When John and Robert Braithwaite started their fledgling boat business in 1969, the two brothers had no idea it would become one of the UK’s most important shipyards. Sunseeker is different from most yards on this list because it builds only in composites up to 155 feet.

The Sunseeker 161 being built by Icon Yachts.  Photo: Courtesy of Sunseeker/Icon

Prompted by owner demand, Sunseeker is now venturing into aluminum with its new 161 Yacht. Easily recognized by Sunseeker’s exterior design cues, the 161 will be built by Icon Yachts in Holland. “We are combining the metal build expertise of ICON with our design DNA, technical expertise, and market know-how,” says Sean Robertson, president of Sunseeker USA, adding the new yacht will “absolutely” be a Sunseeker. The 161 will be launched in 2021.

Princess Yachts shipyard.  Photo: Courtesy of Princess Yachts

Princess Yachts

Princess Yachts is the other British builder that continues to evolve in interesting, new ways. Established in Plymouth in 1965, Princess has grown into multiple modern production sites measuring more than 1.1 million square feet. Situated in a port with maritime ties that date back centuries, Princess’s South Yard, where the M Class superyachts are built, is a former 17th-century naval yard.

Princess Yachts Imperial Princess.  Photographer: Marc Paris

The Princess flagship, the 131-foot 40M Imperial Princess, seems like a larger superyacht, with large interior volume and unusual natural light. The yard also makes a 30M (98 foot LOA) and 35M (115 foot LOA).

Princess Yachts R35.  Photo: Courtesy of Princess

Its most exciting launch was the R35, a 35-footer designed by Pininfarina, with a foil system that reduces drag by 30 percent. Princess plans to add the foil design to its larger yachts, an innovation that could revolutionize yachting.

Royal Huisman Ngoni.  Photo: Courtesy Royal Huisman/Breed Media

Royal Huisman

Established in 1884, Royal Huisman is one of the oldest shipyards in Holland but one of its most modern. Its waterside facility in Vollenhove totals about 350,000 square feet, with four heated bays to accommodate yachts up to 266 feet. It has another facility in Amsterdam and a third in Emden, with facilities for yachts up to 394 feet. Its fleet of famous sailing superyachts include Gliss, Antares, Hyperiod, Hanuman, Elfie, and Arcadia . Its recent launches include the 190-foot  Ngoni , which has one of the most eclectic interiors ever, and the more classic 184-foot  Aquarius . Though best known for custom sailboats, the yard is currently working on Project Phi, a 180-foot motor yacht designed by Van Ooosannen Naval Architects.

Nautor’s Swan Pietarsaari shipyard.  Photo: Courtesy of Nautor's Swan

Nautor’s Swan

Finnish builder Nautor’s Swan , founded in 1966 by Pekka Koskenkyla, has always had its sights on building high-performance sailing yachts with beautiful wood interiors. Koskenkyla enlisted Sparkman & Stephens, designer for many winning America’s Cup yachts, to create its first fiberglass boat. The new boats saw instant racing success.

Swan 115 sailing yacht.  Photo: Eva-Stina Kjellman

The builder eventually partnered with German Frers Design. The Frers team, working with 30 Swan designers, is responsible for many innovative designs, including the first Swan 115 S introduced in 2015 at the Monaco show. The 115 was the flagship of the its Maxi division, which includes the Swan 98 , and eventually became the Swan 120.

The 98’s multipurpose deck makes for a great hangout and sunning area, while at the same time has optimal space for sail handling.  Photo: Courtesy Nautor's Swan

Nautor’s Swan expanded beyond its historical plant in Kallby in 2002, when it opened a new high-tech facility in Pietarsaari for yachts from 60 to 115 feet. Its Kronoby facility produces its famous wood interiors. The most noteworthy yard in Finland has produced 2,000 Swans since it launched operations.

Westport’s shipyard in Port Angeles, Washington.  Photo: Courtesy of Westport

Westport Yachts

Westport Yachts has been North America’s most prolific superyacht builder since it began building boats in 1969. Its facilities in Westport and Port Angeles, Washington, include enclosed spaces of 170,000 and 100,00 square feet, respectively, with a separate 80,000-square-foot cabinet shop and 4,100-square-foot upholstery shop. Westport has launched more than 140 yachts.

A recently launched 130-foot/40-meter Westport superyacht.  Photo: Courtesy of Westport

Westport’s success lies in its disciplined approach to yacht building, which involves a production mentality that keeps each build on time and on budget. The builder uses leading-edge machinery, proven coring materials, and components like MTU and Caterpillar engines, Northern Lights generators, and Furuno electronics that bring quality and consistency to the build process.

The saloon of Westport’s recent 130-foot superyacht.  Photo: Courtesy of Westport

Its line of the W112, W125, W130 and W164 are contemporary but not ostentatious, with high levels of fit and finish across the yacht. That type of production mentality, which allows for a certain degree of customization, means the yachts are built to the same high standards.

Westport clients appreciate that level of reliability, not to mention resale value, when it comes to yacht ownership.

Delta Marine shipyard.  Photo: Jeff Brown

Delta Marine

Delta Marine is not given much to self-promotion, but the Seattle yard shares the same type of pedigree as many of the top European builders.

Delta Marine Invictus.  Photo: Jeff Brown

Its production quality, skilled labor, and proven ability to turn intricate, complex designs into beautiful, custom superyachts has earned it a place among the world’s top builders. The yard comprises a 25-acre complex in Seattle, with 300,000 square feet of manufacturing space in its state-of-the-art facility. With Boeing headquarters just down the road, and Seattle being a leading tech center, the trickle-down influence on the shipyard is noteworthy. Its collection of custom yachts includes 216-foot  Invictus , 164-foot  Arianna , and 240-foot  Laurel . Recently, an unnamed 204-foot launch was seen on sea trials near the yard.

Mangusta El Leon launch.  Photo: Emilio Bianchi

The Overmarine Group’s Mangusta brand has been known for speed during its 34-year-history. The Balducci family defined their niche, though the range has expanded to maxi open yachts and long-range yachts. The line extends from 94 to 215 feet LOA, with 300 yachts produced over the years. Its Mangusta Maxi Open series, ranging from 94 to 215 feet, offers speed as well as quietness and stability, in a stylish package. Its 50M (164-footer) is considered an industry icon. The Mangusta Oceano are long-range yachts with ranges up to 5,000 miles.

Mangusta Oceano 46 Q95.  Photo: Courtesy of Mangusta

The Mangusta GranSports are a combination of the two lines, fast-displacement yachts capable of covering long distances. The group has 10 production facilities in Tuscany and Viareggio, Massa, and Pisa that total around two million square feet of indoor and exterior space. It has two wharfs in Viareggio where it does the final work on its yachts. Overmarine is vertically integrated, from the initial design to making the molds, to installing the electronics. The company celebrated a milestone in December: Its Gransport El Leon  (shown above) crossed the Atlantic, the first Mangusta to ever accomplish that feat.

Southern Wind Kiboko Tres.  Photo: Courtesy of Southern Wind

Southern Wind

This 25-year-old builder has design offices in Italy and a modern yard in Johannesburg, South Africa, where it builds advanced composite sailing yachts from 82 to 115 feet in length. Over the years, it has worked with renowned sailing yacht designers, Farr Yacht, Reichel/Pugh, and Nauta Design. Most launches are semi-custom projects built on proven running surfaces, giving the owner the choice to customize interior and exterior. Southern Wind ’s most  recent launch is SW105 Kiboko Tres , the second of its performance cruiser series. Designed for offshore sailing but with the comforts of a superyacht, Kiboko Tres passed the ultimate sea trial: 7,000 miles from Johannesburg to Italy, on its way from the shipyard to the offices in Italy.

Christensen Chasseur.  Photo: Jeff Brown

Christensen

Rare among superyacht builders, Christensen Yachts does virtually all of its work in house. The Vancouver, Washington–based yard has its own metal department for completing stainless handrails, stairways, anchor pockets, and other custom pieces, as well as a stone shop for marble, onyx, quartz, granite, and limestone used in the inlaid floors, countertops, and panels; and shops for woodworking, painting, and upholstery. Vertical integration allows the yard to deliver exceptional details for its yachts, which run up to 164 feet. Christensen’s Chasseur won top award in its category in the 2017 International Superyacht Society, in part for the intricate interior.

Christensen’s Vancouver shipyard. 

Located on a seven-acre marina, the shipyard has a dozen bays enclosed in 180,000 square feet of climate-controlled space.

Read More On:

More marine.

Tech Mogul Mike Lynch and 5 Others Are Missing After a Yacht Sinks in Italy

A Fleet of Candela’s Electric Foiling Yachts Is Rolling Out to the Red Sea in 2025

This New 116-Foot Pocket Explorer Will Make Larger Expedition Yachts Jealous

Meet the Wine Club That Thinks Differently.

Receive editor-curated reds from boutique California producers four times a year.

Give the Gift of Luxury

Latest Galleries in Marine

12 Must-See Yacht Debuts at This Year’s Cannes Fest

11 Fascinating Facts About Tankoa’s Library-Quiet 169-Foot Project Secret

More from our brands, kamala harris’ stepdaughter ella emhoff wears viral camo ‘harris walz’ hat in monochromatic helmut lang look at democratic national convention 2024, nwsl expansion talks include cincinnati, cleveland, denver, disney-reliance $8.5 billion media merger faces antitrust scrutiny in india over cricket rights: report, court documents show christie’s fighting back against us-china trade war, the best yoga mats for any practice, according to instructors.

The Best Yacht Concepts From Around The World

The Stunning Ritz Carlton EVRIMA Yacht

Gliding Across Tokyo’s Sumida River: The Mesmerizing Zipper Boat

CROCUS Yacht: An 48 Meter Beauty by Admiral

• Zuretti Interior Design
• Zuretti Interior
• Zuccon International Project
• Ziyad al Manaseer
• Zaniz Interiors. Kutayba Alghanim
• Yuriy Kosiuk
• Yuri Milner
• Yersin Yacht

13 Awesome Superyacht Marina Destinations

With a growing number of superyachts over 100 meters in length, there is more and more demand for large yacht berths in scenic locations worldwide.

Finding marinas that welcome larger vessels and also offer high-end facilities is therefore challenging. Here is a comprehensive list of the eleven largest yacht berths in the world that are popular for yacht spotting .

1. Porto Montenegro

Porto Montenegro has by far the largest yacht berths in the world and can accommodate up to 450 vessels, each measuring 250 meters.

The marina itself offers all necessary services like refueling, on-site provisions, or repairs.

Fashion stores, day spas, sports, leisure, and cultural facilities are also located just a few steps away from the port, making it extremely popular among yacht owners looking for a luxury experience. 

The surrounding streets of Porto Montenegro are well known for their upscale restaurants, bars, and waterfront hotels.

Since the largest yacht in the world, AZZAM “only” has a length of 180 meters, the marina is already prepared for any even bigger projects in the future.

2. Yacht Haven Grande

The second-largest yacht berth is located in St. Thomas on the Virgin Islands. With only 48 berths, the marina is not the biggest, however, it can accommodate yachts with a length of up to 200 meters, making it suitable for some of the largest vessels in the world. 

The on-site facilities are exclusively tailored to the needs of luxury yacht owners, charter guests, and crew stationed in this port.

Besides the usual amenities like repairs and provisioning, there is also a sizable shopping mall just a few steps away from Yacht Haven Grande called “The Shops,” which is perfect for stocking up during layovers.

3. Marina Port Vell

Located in Barcelona, Spain, the Marina Port Vell offers 151 berths for yachts up to 190 meters.

Its excellent location close to the city center and many of Barcelona’s main attractions makes this marina very popular among yacht enthusiasts.

Marina Port Vell is also a highly secure port with sophisticated CCTV and professional security guards stationed in the area 24/7. The on-site facilities include a gym, a business hub, and exclusive restaurants. 

There is also a dedicated crew lounge within the marina where the captain and crew can spend their time ashore.

Marina Port Vell stands out due to its convenient location, although this berth tends to fill up quickly during the summer months and can become extremely crowded due to its popularity.

4. Port Vauban

Port Vauban is the leading marina in the Mediterranean, with 1,500 berths available for yachts with a length of up to 160 meters.

Located in Antibes, France, between Cannes and Nice, Port Vauban is one of the most popular locations for yachting and also one of the largest yacht berths in the world. The marina is also well known for its exclusive yearly events and parties. 

Any standard, as well as unusual services and requests, are fulfilled by the berth’s own agents, who are on call 24/7.

Among other high-profile guests, Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen and his 126-meter yacht OCTOPUS are regular guests at Port Vauban.

5. Port Tarraco

The 5th largest yacht berth on this list is located in Tarragona, Spain, just 100 km southwest of Barcelona.

Port Tarraco is a smaller and highly exclusive marina with just 33 berths in total, and it can accommodate boats from 45 meters up to a length of 160 meters.

The business pier next to the marina offers a broad selection of excellent restaurants, bars, and shopping opportunities. 

Furthermore, there are several yachting stores in the area surrounding Port Tarraco where you can purchase all important spare parts and supplies that might be needed.

Tarragona itself was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000 and has lots to do and see, including famous landmarks and historic ruins.

6. Port Hercules

Port Hercules is located in Monaco, on the French Riviera, and has not only one of the largest yacht berths in the world but also represents one of the most popular locations for yachting in general.

The marina has 700 berths for yachts with a length of 135 meters and a maximum draught of 30 meters. 

Monaco attracts millions of tourists every year with its many sights and upscale restaurants. The Monaco Yacht Show is held in Port Hercules every year, attracting thousands of visitors from all around the world.

7. Porto Mirabello

Porto Mirabello is a unique port located in the harbor town of La Spezia in northern Italy. Since the bay is relatively small, the berths had to be constructed without obstructing the beachfront, which proved to be a challenge.

Porto Mirabello was therefore partly constructed on an artificial island which makes this port a unique and unusual project. 

Vessels between 12 and 130 meters in length can anchor at La Spezia’s berths, making it one of the largest in the world.

La Spezia is a charming former fishing village that has become a popular starting point for exploring Italy in the yachting community.

8. Vilanova Grand Marina

Vilanova Grand Marina is a modern and well-equipped port with some of the largest yacht berths in the world.

After its opening in 2009, the port quickly gained recognition and earned a place among the most well-frequented harbors in Europe.

Vilanova can welcome vessels up to 120 meters in length, although the berths are extremely popular, with only a limited number available for sale or rent. 

This port specifically specializes in superyachts and was constructed with the proximity to Barcelona’s International Airport in mind allowing owners to arrive conveniently in their private jets.

9. Limassol Marina

As the only superyacht port in Cyprus, Limassol Marina combines luxury hotels with sought-after restaurants and, of course, plenty of high-end shopping opportunities.

Its berths can accommodate yachts of up to 110 meters, excluding some of the world’s largest vessels but still allow it to rank alongside high-profile marinas around the Mediterranean. 

Yachts like A or MADAME GU frequent the port and attract curious onlookers. Limassol has space for up to 650 yachts which give an idea of its size.

However, there is far more to the port than just berths. With elaborate real estate projects on the property, there are plenty of investment or luxury housing opportunities to explore.

10. Club Nautico Marina, Cartagena, Colombia

Club Nautico Marina is situated in the historic city of Cartagena, Colombia, and is dedicated to both the sailing and powerboat community worldwide. It is conveniently located a short walk from the historic center, with a supermarket just 2 minutes away.

The marina emphasizes the security of vessels and crew, with a family touch reflecting the history and development of the marina. Originally a haven for international sailors, it now caters to both recreational vessels and those dedicated to tourism activities.

While you’re enjoying your time in Colombia, don’t forget to go further inland and checkout Medellin, a cultural city with excellent food, weather, nightlife and one of the best pub crawls to experience!

11. Yalıkavak Marina

Yalıkavak Marina or sometimes called Port Palmarina is situated close to Bodrum in Turkey. The marina only opened in 2012 with a grand party including a long list of high-profile guests.

The port is owned by the Azerbaijani businessman Mubariz Masimov who supported this one-of-a-kind project and gathered over $45 million in investments. 

In addition to housing yachts, Port Palmarina is a hub for entertainment, shopping, and fine dining, attracting international tourists.

12. Marina di Stabia

Just a short ride from Naples in Italy lies the Marina di Stabia which can host superyachts of up to 100 meters.

The port has a strategic position that allows visitors to reach places of interest such as the Amalfi Coast, Capri, or Naples easily and comfortably. 

With up to 900 berths available for purchase or rent, the Marina di Stabia is not only one of the largest but also the most modern ports in the area, with the volcano Mount Vesuvius providing a beautiful backdrop.

13. Marina Puerto Los Cabos, Mexico

Marina Puerto Los Cabos is located adjacent to the San Jose estuary, a few miles from historic downtown San Jose del Cabo. Offering a full-service experience with all necessary amenities, this marina provides a laid-back experience near the history and culture of Old Mexico.

As one of the premier marinas on the entire west coast of Mexico, it currently has 200 slips and can accommodate megayachts up to 250 feet in length. It offers concierge services, a maintenance yard, and various other amenities sought by discerning boaters​ ​.

Mexico is also a prime destination to party, especially Mexico City. The best way to experience the party in this amazing Latino city is via Party Bus Mexico City , which allows you 5 hours to drink the night away with strangers, and explore the city at the same time!

Do you have anything to add to this listing?

Love yachts join us., related posts.

Bananas On Boat Trips Are Bad Luck – 6 Reasons Why

Top 10 Biggest Sailing Yachts In The World

9 Sailing And Boat Superstitions

Renaming A Boat – Is It Bad Luck?

• Career Advice
• Salary Guide
• Dockwalk Presents
• Digital Dockwalk

The global superyacht marina guide

With in-depth details on nearly 700 superyacht marinas, the Dockwalk and BOAT International teams are pleased to present our online Superports directory: the definitive global guide to marinas.

Superyacht crew, captains, charterers and owners can search for the ideal port to berth in, by region, country and marina name. Superports contains vital location and contact information as well as images, videos and destination information.

Latest from Superports

Search for Marinas by Region

Top 10 Best Marinas in the Mediterranean

Home > Relevance Yacht News > Top 10 Best Marinas in the Mediterranean

Posted by Joanna Lewis , 13 May 2024

The Mediterranean prides itself on being the world’s most exclusive yachting destination, so it’s no surprise that it boasts a stunning number of world-class marinas that are home to the world’s finest superyachts.

However, which Mediterranean marinas really reign supreme? Here, we explore 10 of the best marinas in the Mediterranean, where you’ll find the most discerning yachting enthusiasts.

Best luxury marinas in the Mediterranean

Port hercules, monaco.

Port Hercules is continually ranked as one of the best superyacht marinas in the Mediterranean, home to the world’s largest superyachts and mega yachts with a prime location in the heart of the city-state,  just moments away from the Principality’s best attractions, including designer boutiques, award-winning restaurants, and vibrant nightlife at some of the Cote d’Azur’s most exclusive clubs.  

This superb marina sits at the foot of the Principality of Monaco’s legendary ancestral rock and is one of the only deep-water ports along the French Riviera. 

Port Hercules plays host to the annual Monaco Yacht Show, one of the most prestigious events on the annual yachting calendar, and is also home to the Monaco Yacht Club, one of the most exclusive private members clubs. 

The port boasts 760 berths and a range of world-class yachting amenities catering to the world’s most demanding yacht owners.  

Port of Cannes

The Port of Cannes, or Vieux Port, is a large harbour flanked by a wide range of yachting and luxury amenities, including a host of bars and restaurants. Located in Cannes’ picturesque Old Port, Vieux Port boasts 650 berths for superyachts up to 65 metres in size. 

The Port of Cannes is a popular berthing spot for private yachts, including sailing boats, and is a highly sought-after marina during the Cannes Film Festival, with prime berths often booked years ahead. 

It is also the perfect starting point for those embarking on a French Riviera yacht charter, within easy cruising distance of some of the most refined and elegant yachting hotspots in the Mediterranean, including St. Tropez, Monaco, Nice, Antibes, and the Cote d’Azur’s legendary Caps.

Porto Montenegro, Montenegro

Porto Montenegro is a superb marina in Montenegro, on the shores of the Adriatic Sea, and is designed for vessels of all sizes, offering a menu of services that cover everything that a modern seafarer may require. 

Considered one of the best marinas in the Mediterranean, Porto Montenegro was the first recipient of the prestigious Platinum Marina accreditation from The Yacht Harbour Association. Alongside a full complement of yachting amenities, Porto Montenegro also includes a selection of gourmet restaurants, lively bars, a shopping village, a yacht club, and waterside accommodation, all within walking distance.

Porto Cervo, Sardinia

This picturesque marina in Sardinia’s Old Port, Italy, is situated in the heart of the stunning Costa Smeralda, with gorgeous beaches and picturesque coves and bays all just moments away. Owned and operated by IGY Marinas, yacht owners and charterers will find a wide selection of amenities, including a private yacht club, restaurant and bar, and various marine services, including a full-service boatyard.

Port Vell, Barcelona, Spain

Port Vell is a superb waterfront harbour in the vibrant city of Barcelona. The marina boasts 151 berths that can accommodate luxury yachts up to 190-metres in length, with 24-hour security and mooring assistance. 

The marina offers a superb selection of amenities, including a business hub, gym, restaurants and bars, and concierge services, all coupled with personalised services. 

Port Vell is one of the few marinas in the Mediterranean with a TPA permit, which enables non-EU superyachts undergoing repairs and maintenance to benefit from tax exemptions. 

The marina’s convenient location puts the city of Barcelona’s best attractions and luxury amenities all within striking distance.

Port Adriano, Mallorca, Balearic Islands, Spain

Port Adriano is not only considered one of the best marinas in the Mediterranean, but also one of the most modern. Designed by the award-winning designer Philippe Starck, Port Adriano is located in the municipality of Calvia, southwest of the bay of Palma de Mallorca in the Balearic Islands, and is an exceptional base for the world’s finest luxury yachts, thanks to its superb selection of luxury services, including high-end boutiques, restaurants, and bars. Along with its 87 berths that can accommodate yachts up to 80-metres, the marina also offers a superb selection of nautical services, including a shipyard.

Cala del Forte Marina, Italy 

Cala del Forte is a small marina in Ventimiglia, Italy, along the Mediterranean Sea. It is owned and operated by Monaco Ports and was developed to help satisfy the need for berthing facilities in Monaco. A free high-speed boat shuttle operates between Cala del Forte and Port Hercules, which takes approximately 15 minutes. 

Cala del Forte was initially inaugurated in 2021 and boasts the highest services of hospitality and professionalism coupled with modern facilities, including a shipyard for yachts up to 30-metres. 

Superyacht owners, crew, and guests can also easily access all the amenities of the historic Cala del Forte town, thanks to an elevator that connects the town centre directly with the marina. The marina has 178 berths, and can accommodate superyachts up to 70+ metres.  

Karpaz Gate Marina, Cyprus

This world-class marina is located in the unspoiled Karpaz Penninsula in north Cyprus and is surrounded by the crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea. 

Karpas Gate Marina has been meticulously developed to fulfill the expectations of the world’s most discerning yachting enthusiasts. The marina boasts 300 berths, alongside a dedicated Technical Centre, a RYA Training Centre, gourmet restaurants, an outstanding beach club with a stunning 33-metre infinity swimming pool, children’s swimming pool, private beach area with cabanas, and a premium hotel with an exquisite Turkish Hammam with luxurious treatment rooms.

Marina Moll Vell, Mallorca, Balearic Islands

Marina Moll Vell is a wonderful marina located in the vibrant city of Palma de Mallorca in the Balearic Islands, with some of the city’s most stunning architectural wonders just moments away, such as the majestic Palma Cathedral and La Almudaina Royal Palace. 

From the marina, it is also easy to reach the city’s Golden Mile, where some of the world’s most exclusive designer boutiques can be found alongside gourmet restaurants and ultra-chic bars.

This world-class Mediterranean marina also plays host to the annual Palma International Boat Show, which attracts some of the world’s top yachting service providers and ultra-luxurious private yachts. 

Which marina is the largest marina in the Mediterranean?

Port Vauban in Antibes is the largest marina in the Mediterranean, boasting more than 1,642 berths accommodating yachts up to 170-metres. As well as being the biggest marina, it is also considered one of the best marinas in the Mediterranean.

The historic marina stretches from what is now Porte Marine to Bastion Saint-Jaume and welcomes all types of vessels, from small fishing boats to the largest mega yachts, which can berth in the marina’s iconic Quai Camille Rayon, aptly known as the Billionaires’ Quay. 

Port Vauban is also home to the International Yacht Club d’Antibes, which offers a superb selection of amenities, including a convenient helipad. The beautiful Old Town of Antibes is within easy access, boasting a superb selection of restaurants, shops, and boutiques. 

Work with Relevance

Relevance is a leading yacht marketing agency with in-depth knowledge of the yachting industry, from the best Mediterranean marinas to the world’s finest superyachts and yacht industry trends. We work closely with leading yacht brokerages, industry service providers, and niche start-ups in the yachting industry, crafting marketing campaigns that reach and resonate with the world’s richest audiences. Browse our yacht marketing services or contact a member of our team to learn how we can boost your online presence and provide a measurable return on investment. 

Read more articles by this author

• Where Luxury Lives
• Architecture
• Property Galleries
• 2024 Masters Circle
• 2024 Gavel of Greatness Winners
• Art & the Artist
• Interiors & Design
• Style & Fashion
• Destination Guides
• Travel, Food & Drink
• Vineyards & Wine
• 2024 Global Luxury Mid-Year Forecast
• Luxury Market Report
• Luxury Market Trends & Research
• Price of Luxury

Seaside Inspired: 4 Homes with “Coastal Cottage” Interior Style

Paris 2024 Olympics: 5 Gold Medal-Worthy Homes in the Host City

Dining Alfresco: 4 Homes with Outdoor Kitchens for Entertaining

The Collector’s Lifestyle: 4 Homes with Wine Cellars

Charter Season: 7 of the World’s Best Yachting Locations

From the French Riviera to the British Virgin Islands, Luxury Defined explores seven glamorous yachting destinations around the globe

Does anything even approach the romance, adventure, and freedom of cruising the Seven Seas in a luxury yacht? The vessel is built to enhance, embrace, and refine every aspect of life at sea. The best designs emphasize space, fixtures, finishes—and creature comforts.  

The superyacht dials all that up to 11 by maximizing livability with such amenities as swimming pools, personal watercraft (a minisub , anyone?), satellite links, private chefs, outdoor entertainment decks, cinemas, even helipads.    

For any sea traveler, though, the best leg of any voyage is the voyage home . This edition of Luxury Defined showcases the world’s most livable yachting destinations, and the homes that equal—or even exceed—superyacht luxury.  Welcome home, sailor, home from the sea.  

1. The French Riviera  

Perhaps the most glamorous seaside destination in Europe, the French Riviera , or Côte d’Azur, draws the sailor and sunseeker alike. Picture-postcard villages and chic beach resorts line the coast from the cosmopolitan glitz of Saint-Tropez and Cannes to the unspoiled beauty of Port-Cros.  

The winter resort city of Nice, with its ample sunshine, white sand beaches, and special events such as the Cannes Film Festival attract a who’s who of international glitterati. West along the coastline, past the jet-set destination of Saint-Tropez, the island of Porquerolles awaits, with a peaceful escape from the bustle of the mainland.  

2. Costa Smeralda, Sardinia, Italy  

Sardinia’s Emerald Coast is a playground for the jet set, and its dramatic, unspoiled coastline and luxury marinas draw yacht folk from all over. The marine grottoes of Cala Gonone and the rock formations of Capo Testa, shaped by centuries of sea winds, are favorite attractions.  

While the quaint towns of Carloforte and Castelsardo provide local color, the exclusive Yacht Club Costa Smeralda offers dining, a clubhouse, and spa services. Sailors can explore the tiny islands of the Maddalena archipelago or the white sandy beaches and rocky cliffs along the Gallura coast. Tranquil sunset viewing turns to fine dining and sizzling nightlife in the exclusive restaurants, clubs, and discos of Porto Cervo and Porto Rotondo.  

3. The Greek Islands

Surrounded by its “wine-dark” seas and thousands of islands, ancient Greece prospered with a maritime culture that became the cradle of Western civilization.  

There is plenty left to explore, from the natural beauty of its uninhabited isles to the beaches and cosmopolitan nightlife that have made islands such as Mykonos into global destinations. Yachters can stop for an archaeological exploration on Rhodes or Delos, a night on the tiles in the tavernas of Athens, to the nightclub scene of Mykonos, Corfu, and Crete, the largest of the Greek islands.  

The adventure starts in the ancient seaport of Piraeus, in southwestern Athens. Zea Marina is one of the finest, full-service marinas in the Mediterranean, offering 670 berths for vessels up to 492 feet.  

4. The Bahamas  

The 700 islands of The Bahamas begin at Bimini, just 45 miles off the coast of Miami, and stretch 500 miles southwest to the islands of Great Inagua and Little Inagua, neighboring the Turks and Caicos Islands.  

The Bahamas were made famous by Ian Fleming (the islands featured in the James Bond spy thrillers Casino Royale , Thunderball , The Spy Who Loved Me , Never Say Never Again , and License to Kill ). But they’ve been a haven for sailors and swashbucklers since the 18th century.  

They’re a paradise below the waterline, too, for sport fishing, snorkeling and scuba diving. Palm-lined beaches, nature preserves, world-class golf courses, and colorful Colonial-style villas welcome seafarers ashore.  

5. The Florida Keys  

The Florida Keys arc southwest from Virginia Key in the Atlantic Ocean (just south of Miami Beach) to Loggerhead Key in Dry Tortugas National Park, a remote seven-island archipelago in the Gulf of Mexico, 70 miles off Key West. The islands are easy to navigate. Cruising in the Keys can mean a leisurely and scenic sail through the shallow interconnected basins of Florida Bay or a more adventurous trip out on the open waters of the Atlantic.    

But it’s not all plain sailing. Mariners can drop anchor in a coral cove to swim, snorkel, or fish, or drop anchor in Islamorada, the “Sportfishing Capital of the World.”  Of course, a trip to the Keys is not complete without a visit to continental America’s southernmost city, Key West, otherwise known as the Conch Republic—a place described as “close to perfect and far from normal,” where flip-flops are the official footwear and every day the sunset is applauded.  

6. The British Virgin Islands  

One of the world’s great sailing destinations, the BVI comprises four main islands—Tortola, Jost Van Dyke, Anegada, and Virgin Gorda. There are 50 more islands and cays, including Necker Island (Sir Richard Branson’s private paradise) and Salt Island, home of the wreck of the RMS Rhone, and hundreds of tiny palm-lined islets, sandbars, and rocky outcroppings to navigate, bounded by the beautiful Sir Francis Drake Channel, named after the Elizabethan admiral.   

There are countless draws for mariners: calm currents, steady trade winds, and protected bays. It’s a treasure trove, quite literally—some say it’s buried on Norman Island at the southern tip of the archipelago, made famous by Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island . Today, The Bight, one of the BVI’s most popular (and beautiful) anchorages, enchants seafarers with its sea caves, wreck-diving, and the infamous Willy T floating pirate bar and restaurant.   

7. Bermuda  

Bermuda has been the crossroads of the North Atlantic voyage since the town of St. George’s was settled by shipwrecked sailors in 1609. Between March and November each year, racing yachts from around the globe arrive in the harbors of St. George’s and Hamilton parishes to compete in regattas organized by Bermuda’s many sailing clubs. Thanks to the Gulf Stream, the island’s temperate climate is a year-round draw for leisure travelers, who come to cruise the island’s Great Sound and soak up the sun and local culture. The warm waters are ideal for scuba diving, whether it’s to explore marine wildlife habitats or historic shipwrecks that dot the reefs around Bermuda’s perimeter.

Still exploring the Seven Seas? Set sail for luxury yachting homes here .  

Related Posts

The Sport of Kings: 7 Great and Grand Equestrian Estates

Lakeside Luxury: 6 Deluxe Lake Houses for Summer

10 OF THE MOST SPECTACULAR SUPERYACHT MARINAS IN EUROPE

With nine seas and the Atlantic, Europe has more than 900 seaports, many of which are well worth a visit.  So here's a look at 10 of Europe's most spectacular ports for superyachts.

1. Port Vauban, Antibes

This port is one of the oldest and largest in Europe, it is located in the heart of the French Riviera, in Antibes and more precisely in the Alpes-Maritimes department. The marina has 1,642 berths, including 19 places for superyachts at the Quai des Billionaires. The port of Antibes can accommodate yachts up to 170 meters in length, with a maximum draught of 7 meters.  Around the Port Vauban in Antibes, we have a stunning coastal village between Monaco and Saint-Tropez, whose ancient appearance attracts many tourists.  In the Vauban harbour, a refuelling station is located next to the central harbour master's office, and all yachts in the harbour benefit from high-speed broadband internet access, as well as shore power and free black and grey water pumping. The port is currently monitored by 20 CCTV units, with plans to install a further 165 cameras, and there is on-site security covering the entire port.

2.  OneOcean Port Vell, Barcelona

3.  Port Hercule, Monaco

4.  Porto Montenegro, Bay of Kotor

5.  Marina di Porto Cervo, Sardinia

6.  Puerto Banus, Marbella  

7.  ACI Marina Dubrovnik, Croatia

8.  Grand Harbour Marina, Malta

9.  Marina di Portofino, Liguria

10.  Port Adriano, Mallorca

Contact us for advice on the best yacht to rent for your project ! 

📩 [email protected] +377 92 05 54 23

Merci d'entrer votre email pour rester informé des actualités de Yachtside

• Frank Magazine
• Denison History
• Virtual Tours
• Alaskan Yachts
• Azimut Yachts
• Back Cove Yachts
• Beneteau Yachts
• Benetti Superyachts
• Bertram Yachts
• Boston Whaler
• Broward Yachts
• Buddy Davis Sportfish
• Burger Yachts
• Cabo Yachts
• Carver Motoryachts
• Center Console
• Chris-Craft Yachts
• Cruisers Yachts
• DeFever Trawlers
• Dufour Sailboats
• Fairline Yachts
• Feadship Yachts
• Ferretti Yachts
• Formula Yachts
• Fountaine Pajot Cats
• Grady-White
• Grand Banks Trawlers
• Hargrave Yachts
• Hatteras Yachts
• Hinckley Picnic Boats
• Horizon Yachts
• Hydra-Sports
• Intrepid Boats
• Jarrett Bay Sportfish
• Jeanneau Yachts
• Kadey-Krogen Trawlers
• Lazzara Yachts
• Lekker Boats
• Luhrs Sportfish
• Marlow Yachts
• Maritimo Yachts
• Marquis Yachts
• McKinna Motoryachts
• Meridian Yachts
• Midnight Express
• Mochi Craft
• Neptunus Motoryachts
• Nordhavn Trawlers
• Nordic Tugs
• Ocean Alexander Yachts
• Offshore Yachts
• Oyster Sailing Yachts
• Pacific Mariner Yachts
• Palmer Johnson Yachts
• Pershing Yachts
• Prestige Yachts
• Princess Yachts
• Pursuit Yachts
• Riva Yachts
• Riviera Yachts
• Sabre Downeast
• San Lorenzo Yachts
• Sea Ray Boats
• SeaVee Central Consoles
• Selene Trawlers
• Scout Yachts
• Sunseeker Yachts
• Tiara Yachts
• Trinity Superyachts
• Viking Yachts
• Westport Yachts

Top 10 Superyacht Marinas in the United States

Best marinas to dock your boat..

Marine, marina, harbor, yacht club, port — not exactly synonyms, but close. A marina provides safe dockage for vessels of all sizes, often offering supplies, repair, and other facilities to those who rent a slip. A quick (but unreliable) Google search told us that there at about 12,000 marinas in the United States.

Whether that’s true or not, that’s a lot to sift through. But we did it — we found the top 10 superyacht marinas in the U.S.

1. Yacht Haven Grande | Miami, Florida

“Welcome to Miami” is the vibe when you step off the yacht and into Yacht Haven Grande by Island Gardens. This marina is nothing short of flash and accommodates some of the largest superyachts in the world. 

This Miami marina was specifically designed to host mega yachts reaching 500+ feet in length, plus accommodation for smaller tenders. Onsite amenities include a luxury lounge, conference room, mail and package delivery, concierge service, BBQ area for crew, and water taxi to select Miami waterfronts. Yacht Haven Grande is a true marina destination, and one of the finest in the world.

Bonus: Denison’s Miami office is nearby to help you with your new yacht search.

Max boat length: 500+ feet

2. Gurney’s Star Island Marina | Montauk, New York

All the way at the End of the World (as Montauk, NY is so often referred to), is Gurney’s Star Island Marina . It’s part of a larger resort and therefore offers plenty of amenities for boat owners who book a slip. Despite a sense of exclusivity, Gurney’s Star Island Marina does not require a membership. 

The marina can accommodate yachts up to 220 feet with a maximum draft of 12 feet. Boat guests have full access to Gurney’s Star Island facilities and amenities, including laundry services, a private beach, a fitness center, heated pools, tennis courts, and waterfront dining options. It’s a welcome land excursion for yacht charters in New England . 

Max boat length: 220 feet

3. Bahia Mar Yachting Center | Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Smack dab in the heart of Fort Lauderdale is the Bahia Mar Resort and Yachting Center (also home to the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show ). It’s all about the amenities when you dock at Bahia Mar, which includes access to a swimming pool, fitness center, entertainment concierge, diving and sailing tours, and dining options. Oh, and the beach is right across the street. 

The marina is separated into the South Basin and the North Basin, with the resort, parking, shops, and restaurants conveniently in the middle. Bahia Mar holds 250 slips and can accommodate vessels up to 300 feet in length. Facilities include fueling, free WiFi, cable television, and pump out. Best to book ahead of time — about 90% of the slips are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Stop by Denison’s Fort Lauderdale office to speak with a superyacht specialist. 

Max boat length: 300 feet

4. Safe Harbor Charleston City | Charleston, South Carolina

Safe Harbor has locations all over the west and east coasts, but its marina in Charleston , South Carolina is one of the best superyacht marinas in the United States. It’s home to the Mega Dock (dun, dun duunn), which hosts some of the most prestigious yachts in the world.

Charleston is a premier boating destination , and the marina’s state-of-the-art facilities and southern hospitality are a welcome respite after a big day on the water. Yachts that book a slip at Safe Harbor receive complimentary wifi, shore power hookups, freshwater hookups, and cable TV hookups. They also have a full marine service, fuel dock, and waterfront restaurant. While membership is not required to dock at this marina, you can become a member of Safe Harbor to gain access to an entire network of premium locations, amenities, and events.

Stop by Denison’s Charleston office to learn more about yachts for sale. 

Max boat length: 455 feet

5. Marina del Rey Marina | Los Angeles, California

Marina del Rey hosts one of the largest marinas in the U.S. It can accommodate vessels up to 150 feet in length and up to 5,000 yachts year-round. Californians do things big — the marina has hotel rooms, restaurants, a Denison office , a movie theater, paddleboard rentals, and a shopping center (among other amenities ). It’s a short drive to/from Santa Monica for the beach or LAX to catch a flight. When you book a slip at Marina del Rey Marina, you’ll get security, fresh water, power, ice delivery, wash and fold delivery, and dockside shuttle service.

Max boat length: 150 feet

6. Farley State Marina | Atlantic City, New Jersey

Dock the yacht and head for the slots. Farley State Marina is part of the Golden Nugget Casino in Atlantic City. This protected marina offers 630 floating slips and dockage for vessels up to 300 feet in length. When you rent a boat slip at Farley State, you get exclusive resort amenities including access to the H20 Rooftop Pool and Bar. Spend a day on the water then enjoy the award-winning restaurants, shows, casino games, and nightlife at the Golden Nugget.

7. Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina | San Diego, California

The Marriott Marquis and Marina in San Deigo offers a prime waterfront location for your yacht or boat. The Marina District is ideally located downtown with easy access to catch a Padres game, tour the USS Midway Museum, or bar hop in the Gaslamp Quarter.

This 450-slip marina accommodates vessels from 25 to 125 feet. Because this marina is part of the Marriott, guests can order room service to their boat, gain access to the pool, or use the fitness center. Say hello to the Denison San Diego team while you’re there. 

Max boat length: 125 feet

8. DiMillo’s Marina | Portland, Maine

In the heart of Portland’s Old Port is DiMillo’s Marina , an iconic neighborhood staple. It’s a two-minute walk to Portland’s historic downtown area with plenty of bars and restaurants, plus provision and marine services. DiMillos offers summer, winter, year-round, and transient dockage with amenities such as a gated facility, wifi, electricity, sewer, and fuel. 

Max boat length: 250 feet

9. Stock Island Yacht Club And Marina | Key West, Florida

Stock Island Marina is one of the best marinas in the Florida Keys. It provides guests with excellent amenities including a waterfront pool, waterfront restaurant, event space, and fitness center; the unrivaled location is an ideal haven for boating, sailing, scuba diving, and sportfishing. Stock Island Marina can accommodate vessels up to 101 feet, with a max draft of 7 feet. By land, it’s about four miles from Key West International Airport and 10 minutes from the bars and restaurants on Duval Street.

Max boat length: 101 feet

10. Tidewater Yacht Marina | Portsmouth, Virginia

At mile marker zero on the Intercoastal Waterway is Tidewater Yacht Marina in Portsmouth, Virginia. It’s the halfway point between Florida and New York, a perfect pit stop for yachts traveling up and down the east coast. Tidewater Yacht Marina offers 300 slips — transient slips can accommodate boats as small as 20′ to yachts over 150’ in length. The marina offers restrooms, showers, laundry, and free wifi for guests. 

Speak With A Superyacht Specialist:

Latest news.

NEWS | August 19, 2024

85′ azimut 2006 sold by florent moranzoni [eva].

85′ Azimut 2006 Sold by Florent Moranzoni [EVA] EVA, an 85′ (26.82m) Azimut built in 2006, was sold by Florent Moranzoni, who represented the Seller. Special thanks to James von Eiberg of Bluebnc, who represented the Buyer. EVA can accommodate ten guests in four comfortable cabins, including a

NEWS | August 14, 2024

Anantara golden triangle elephant camp & resort: bubbles of refuge.

Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort: Bubbles of Refuge Escape with the elephants at the Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort. This article was written by Chris White. Photography courtesy of Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort. When the elephant appears at our deck, it’s nine on

NEWS | August 13, 2024

Seattle boats afloat fall show [new & used boats on display].

Seattle Boats Afloat Fall Show [New & Used Boats On Display] Thursday-Sunday | September 12-15, 2024 Denison invites you to view a number of available new and brokerage boats at the 2024 Seattle Boats Afloat Fall Show. Since its inception in Seattle in 1978, the Pacific Northwest’s largest floating boat show, the Boats

Advertisement

Supported by

Search Resumes for U.K. Mogul and 5 Others After Yacht Sinks Off Sicily

The body of the vessel’s cook was recovered while divers searched the hull of the Bayesian for passengers, including the British tech entrepreneur Mike Lynch.

• Share full article

By Elisabetta Povoledo

Deep-sea divers with Italy’s firefighter corps resumed their search on Tuesday for six missing passengers — including a British software mogul and his daughter — of a yacht that sank off the coast of Sicily the previous day.

Twenty-two people were on board the 180-foot British-flagged sailing yacht, the Bayesian, which was anchored near the port of Porticello, when it was hit by what witnesses described as a waterspout, a small tornado on water, during a sudden and violent storm.

Fifteen people who managed to get to a raft were rescued by the captain of a nearby sailing cruise ship. The body of the yacht’s cook, identified by news outlets as Recaldo Thomas, a Canadian Antiguan, was recovered on Monday. But several people are still unaccounted for, according to Salvatore Cocina, an official with Sicily’s civil protection agency.

Those still missing are Mike Lynch, a British technology entrepreneur; his daughter Hannah; Jonathan Bloomer, chairman of Morgan Stanley International; his wife, Judy Bloomer; Christopher J. Morvillo, a lawyer at Clifford Chance; and his wife, Neda Morvillo.

Mr. Lynch was acquitted of fraud in a U.S. trial in June, ending a high-profile, decadelong legal battle against accusations that he had defrauded Hewlett-Packard when he sold his company, Autonomy, to Hewlett for $11 billion.

Mr. Lynch and the others went missing days after Mr. Lynch’s co-defendant at the fraud trial, Stephen Chamberlain, a former vice president of finance at Autonomy, was fatally struck by a car on Saturday while out for a run, his lawyer, Gary S. Lincenberg, said in a statement.

Prosecutors in the Italian city of Termini Imerese, east of where the yacht sank, are opening a formal investigation into the yacht’s sinking. Reached by telephone, the chief prosecutor declined to comment.

The search for the missing passengers began on Monday but was suspended late that night as crews found themselves limited to the bridge deck and items like furnishings “obstructing passage,” the firefighters’ corps wrote on social media .

When divers resumed the search on Tuesday, ships trawled the waters near the site, the corps said in a statement. The Italian Coast Guard also said in a statement that search operations were “continuing unabated,” with the deployment of helicopters. There was no evidence that gasoline was leaking from the yacht, the Coast Guard said.

The yacht was lying on its right side in about 165 feet of water, meaning that divers, working in pairs, could stay underwater for only about 12 minutes at a time, said Luca Cari, a spokesman for the firefighters’ corps.

Divers were seeking a safe point of access to the vessel’s cabins. “Obviously, everything fell and the space is very tight,” Mr. Cari said, adding that the divers were having to remove obstacles, like furnishings and electrical wiring, that were “completely blocking passages.”

The firefighters’ corps said in a statement that it was impossible to verify whether people were inside the hull.

Mr. Cari said that several divers had been part of the search-and-rescue operations when the Costa Concordia, a cruise liner, capsized off the Tuscan island of Giglio in 2012, killing 32 people. It is considered one of the worst maritime disasters in modern Italian history.

“It’s like the Costa Concordia, but much smaller,” Mr. Cari said in a telephone interview, comparing the search operations. “In the Costa Concordia, we came across many obstacles but we somehow were able to overcome them. Here, the obstacles block the passages and have to be removed.” He added, “This makes it more difficult.”

Crews were also trying to raise the yacht, which experts will examine to try to determine why it sank. Until then, experts can only hypothesize what happened.

Karsten Borner, the captain of a ship, the Sir Robert Baden Powell, which picked up the Bayesian’s 15 survivors, said in an interview that when the wind picked up around 4 a.m. Monday, the Bayesian was about 490 feet behind his vessel. Once the wind wound down, he said, he could not see the yacht anymore.

“My theory was that she was capsized first and then went down over the stern,” Mr. Borner said.

Dario Boote, a ship structures and naval architecture professor at the University of Genoa, said: “Now I imagine that a whole series of lawsuits will be triggered, obviously to ascertain whether there is any responsibility, as always happens very unpleasantly in these situations.” He said, however, that in this case, responsibility might be hard to determine. “Clearly, only once the wreck is raised will we know more,” he added.

Several fishermen told Italian news outlets that they had witnessed a waterspout. Peter Inness, a meteorologist at the University of Reading, said they were relatively common in the Mediterranean, though their occurrence and intensity are unpredictable.

“Until one actually forms, you can’t start telling people where it is,” Mr. Inness said, or “how to get out of the way.”

The inclement weather — with lightning intermittently streaking through the sky — made it hard to know exactly why the yacht sank. Col. Attilio Di Diodato, director of the Italian Air Force’s Center for Aerospace Meteorology and Climatology, said the agency had registered intense lightning activity and strong gusts of wind in the area at the time the boat sank.

The Bayesian had one of the tallest aluminum masts in the world, according to its builder, Perini Navi. “Having a tall aluminum mast would not make it the safest port to be in case of a storm,” said Andrea Ratti, associate professor of nautical design and architecture technology the Politecnico di Milano. The type of intensity unleashed by a violent lightning storm “could have created a significant shock wave,” he added.

He, too, cautioned that “a lot of questions will remain until we have other elements at our disposal.”

Modern yachts are built to withstand meteorological events of reasonable intensity, and all international naval registers suggest that new ships be designed for higher waves and more frequent and extreme weather events.

But “this seems a case of an unreasonable extreme event,” said Emilio Fortunato Campana, an expert in Naval Hydrodynamics at Italy’s National Research Council. “In that case, no ship is 100 percent safe,” he added. “I think the Titanic showed that nothing is unsinkable.”

Elisabetta Povoledo is a reporter based in Rome, covering Italy, the Vatican and the culture of the region. She has been a journalist for 35 years. More about Elisabetta Povoledo

Missing revealed as divers search superyacht that sank in storm off Sicily

ROME — Rescue teams and divers were searching Tuesday for six missing people, including a British tech magnate and a Morgan Stanley boss, after a luxury superyacht sank in a storm off Sicily .

The identity of those still missing emerged after an initial search of the 184-foot sailboat, named the Bayesian, was unsuccessful Monday. The British-flagged tourist vessel had 22 people aboard when it sank because of “a violent storm” off Sicily’s main city, Palermo, around 5 a.m. local time (11 p.m. ET) on Monday, the local coast guard said.

Newly released video shows the moment the vessel suddenly sank after being battered by the storm. In the video, the 250-foot mast, which was lit up and lashed by the storm, appears to bend to one side before it disappears and is replaced by darkness.

The grainy images obtained by NBC News and other outlets were recorded on closed-circuit television not far from where the Bayesian was anchored.

Fifteen people were rescued by a boat present in the immediate vicinity and then brought ashore by coast guard vessels, but six passengers, including American, British and Canadian citizens, remained missing, it said. They were believed to be trapped in the boat's hull, some 164 feet underwater, posing a challenge to divers who returned Tuesday to the site off Porticello, near Palermo.

Salvatore Cocina, director of Sicily’s Civil Protection Agency, told NBC News that the missing include British tech magnate Mike Lynch and his daughter, Morgan Stanley International Chairman Jonathan Bloomer and his wife, and Clifford Chance lawyer Chris Morvillo and his wife.

Cocina did not specify the nationalities of the missing. He also did not identify Lynch's daughter or the wives of Bloomer and Morvillo.

A spokesperson for Clifford Chance, where Morvillo works as a lawyer, confirmed to NBC News on Tuesday that he and his wife, Neda, were among the missing. 

Aki Hussain, chief executive officer of U.K. insurance company Hiscox, where Bloomer is a nonexecutive chairman, confirmed to NBC News on Tuesday that Bloomer and his wife, Judy, were missing.

Italy’s national fire department said that its divers were able to get inside the wreck during a late-night dive Monday, inspecting some cabins under the bridge, but were having trouble navigating because of obstructions and narrow access gates. One of those obstructions was reported to have been caused by furniture from the cabins that moved during the storm that struck the ship early Monday.

Rescuers said that there might be bodies inside the cabins, especially considering the timing of the storm, but that they had so far been unable to check through the ship’s portholes.

Divers were forced to work in 12-minute underwater search shifts because of the depth, while surface searches continued in the area of ​​the shipwreck with a helicopter and a fire brigade boat, it added.

Mike Lynch, who was regularly described in U.K. media as “Britain’s Bill Gates,” was cleared of fraud charges in a blockbuster U.S. trial earlier this summer. Sources told CNBC on Monday that his wife, Angela Bacares, has been rescued. Italian news agency ANSA identified his daughter, missing alongside her father, as Hannah, 18.

Just days earlier, Lynch's co-defendant, Stephen Chamberlain, died after being “fatally struck by a car” while out running Saturday, his lawyer Gary Lincenberg said in an emailed statement.

The sailing vacation that ended in tragedy appeared to be something of a celebration after Lynch’s acquittal — Morvillo was one of Lynch’s U.S. lawyers and Bloomer testified in his defense.

“We are deeply shocked and saddened by this tragic event. Our thoughts are with all those affected, in particular our Chair, Jonathan Bloomer, and his wife Judy, who are among the missing,” Hussain, the Hiscox CEO, said in an emailed statement.

A Morgan Stanley spokesperson also said: “Our thoughts are with all those affected, in particular the Bloomer family, as we all wait for further news from this terrible situation.”

The Eve Appeal, a British cancer charity, described Judy Bloomer in an emailed statement as “a brilliant champion for women’s health and medical research.”

Britain's Marine Accident Investigation Branch said it was deploying a team of four inspectors to Palermo to conduct a preliminary assessment.

The coast guard said in a statement Monday that the ship’s cook had died. It did not give his nationality. Reuters identified him as Antiguan citizen Ricardo Thomas.

One of the survivors, identified as Charlotte Emsley, 35, told the Italian news agency ANSA that she had momentarily lost hold of her year-old daughter, Sofia, in the water but managed to retrieve her and hold her up over the waves until a lifeboat inflated and they were pulled to safety.

Built by Italian shipbuilder Perini Navi in 2008, the U.K.-registered, Bayesian can carry 12 guests and a crew of up to 10, according to online specialist yacht sites.

The yacht’s nearly 250-foot mast is the tallest aluminum sailing mast in the world, according to CharterWorld Luxury Yacht Charters. 

Luca Mercalli, an Italian climatologist and president of the country’s meteorological society, told Reuters that the storm could have involved a waterspout, essentially a tornado over water, or a downburst, a more frequent phenomenon that doesn’t involve the rotation of the air.

Storms and heavy rainfall have swept Italy in recent days after weeks of scorching heat.

“The sea surface temperature around Sicily was around 30 degrees Celsius (86 Fahrenheit), which is almost 3 degrees more than normal,” Mercalli said. “This creates an enormous source of energy that contributes to these storms.”

Claudio Lavanga reported from Rome and Yuliya Talmazan from London.

After Yacht Sinks, Experts Say Mediterranean Growing More Dangerous

Rescue personnel work in the area where a luxury yacht sank, off the coast of Porticello, near the Sicilian city of Palermo, Italy, August 20, 2024. REUTERS/Guglielmo Mangiapane

By Antonella Cinelli and Gavin Jones

ROME (Reuters) - The shipwreck of a luxury yacht moored off the coast of Sicily is the latest sign that the Mediterranean is becoming a more dangerous sea to sail in, climate experts and skippers say.

One man died and six people are still missing, including British tech entrepreneur Mike Lynch, after the Bayesian, a 56-metre-long (184-ft) sailboat, was hit by a ferocious storm on Monday, sinking in a matter of minutes.

Climatologists say global warming is making such violent and unexpected tempests more frequent in a sea used as a summer playground for millions of tourists, including a wealthy few sailing its waters on superyachts.

Luca Mercalli, president of Italy's meteorological society, said the sea surface temperature around Sicily in the days leading up to the shipwreck was about 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit), almost three degrees more than normal.

"This creates an enormous source of energy that contributes to these storms," he told Reuters.

The changes in "Mare Nostrum" (Our Sea), as the ancient Romans called the Mediterranean, are also being noticed by experienced skippers such as Massimo Aramu, who runs the Akua sailing school on the coast near the Italian capital.

Currently sailing around Greece, Aramu said he did not like navigating Italy's Tyrrhenian coast around Sicily or the Spanish Balearic islands because there are "often critical situations with little warning".

Last week, a storm similar to the one that sank the Bayesian hit the Balearic archipelago, which includes the islands of Ibiza and Mallorca, leaving several yachts washed up ashore.

Giuliano Gallo, a former skipper who crossed the Atlantic and has written several books on sailing, said the Mediterranean was becoming more like the Caribbean, which has areas that many boats steer clear of at certain times of the year.

"But things are less predictable in the Mediterranean," he said.

Another sign of the more erratic weather in the Mediterranean was seen a year ago when thousands of people were killed in Libya by flash floods triggered by a so-called medicane - a supercharged Mediterranean storm fuelled by warmer seas.

Karsten Borner, the captain of a boat that was moored alongside the Bayesian but escaped harm, said Monday's storm had been "very violent, very intense, a lot of water and I think a turning system like a tornado".

He also blamed more frequent episodes of intense heat during the summer months for playing a role in causing such storms.

"The water is ... way too hot for the Mediterranean and this causes for sure heavy storms, like we had one week ago on the Balearics, like we had two years ago in Corsica and so on," he said.

(Additional reporting by Gavin Jones and Giselda Vagnoni; Writing by Gavin Jones; Editing by Crispian Balmer and Helen Popper)

Copyright 2024 Thomson Reuters .

Photos You Should See - July 2024

Join the Conversation

Tags: Canada , environment , United States , Italy , United Kingdom , Europe

America 2024

U.S. News Decision Points

Your trusted source for the latest news delivered weekdays from the team at U.S. News and World Report.

Sign in to manage your newsletters »

Sign up to receive the latest updates from U.S News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors. By clicking submit, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

You May Also Like

The 10 worst presidents.

U.S. News Staff Feb. 23, 2024

The Best Cartoons on Donald Trump

Aug. 16, 2024, at 4:34 p.m.

Joe Biden Behind The Scenes

Aug. 20, 2024

Best Lines From Day One of the DNC

Aneeta Mathur-Ashton Aug. 20, 2024

Obama to Headline Tuesday at the DNC

Tim Smart Aug. 20, 2024

DNC’s Farewell to Biden, Hello to Harris

Biden’s DNC Farewell

Aneeta Mathur-Ashton Aug. 19, 2024

The Week in Cartoons Aug. 19-23

Aug. 20, 2024, at 11:16 a.m.

Pivotal Week in Politics and the Economy

Tim Smart Aug. 19, 2024

Facts About the Democratic Convention

Laura Mannweiler Aug. 19, 2024

One person dead and six missing after superyacht with 22 on board is sunk by tornado off coast of Italy

British tech tycoon Mike Lynch is among those unaccounted for after the ship was battered by a tornado off the coast of Palermo in the early hours of Monday morning.

Tuesday 20 August 2024 16:20, UK

A man has died and six people are missing after a UK-flagged superyacht sank off the coast of Sicily in a tornado - with a prominent British businessman among those unaccounted for.

Technology tycoon Mike Lynch owned the 56-metre vessel (183ft), named Bayesian.

Mr Lynch, known as the "British Bill Gates", has been in the headlines in recent months over a high-profile fraud case.

In June, he was cleared of all charges by a US jury related to the sale of his software company Autonomy to Hewlett-Packard in 2011.

Mr Lynch's 18-year-old daughter Hannah is among those missing after his yacht sank, local media reports.

Follow live updates: People missing after superyacht sinks

Mr Lynch's wife Angela Bacares is confirmed to be among the 15 people who were rescued after the British-flagged yacht capsized at around 4.30am local time (3.30am UK time) on Monday.

One body has also been recovered, after being found close to the vessel, according to local media.

Read more: Everything we know so far about luxury vessel sunk by tornado Lynch's co-defendant dies after being hit by car days before yacht sinking

The boat was hit by a tornado over the water, known as a waterspout, that struck where the yacht had been anchored during the storm.

Police divers have been trying to reach the hull of the ship, which is resting at a depth of 50 metres (163 feet) off Porticello, near Palermo.

During the rescue effort, divers saw "corpses through the portholes" of the wreck, Salvo Cocina, the head of the Civil Protection of Sicily, said.

“They were in the wrong place at the wrong time,” he added.

The incident comes days after Stephen Chamberlain, Mr Lynch's co-accused in the fraud trial, died in a car collision in Stretham, Cambridgeshire.

Mr Chamberlain's lawyer said he was out running on Saturday when he was hit by a car.

Most on board yacht thought to be British

The boat had 12 passengers and a crew of 10 people. Four of the missing passengers are British and two are American, Italian news website la Reppublica reports.

Most of those on board were reported to be from Britain - including a mother and one-year-old daughter who are among those rescued.

Speaking to the Giornale Di Sicilia newspaper, Charlotte Golunski said: "For two seconds I lost my baby in the sea, then I immediately hugged her again amid the fury of the waves.

"I held her tightly, close to me, while the sea was stormy. Many were screaming. Luckily, the lifeboat inflated and 11 of us managed to get on board."

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

Ms Golunski was reportedly given stitches for a chest injury following the ordeal. The father of the child also survived, Mr Cocina said.

Eight of the 15 people rescued and taken ashore at Porticello were taken to hospital, while the others were taken to a hotel.

The Italian coast guard said the boat had passengers from Britain, the US, and Canada.

Meanwhile, multiple Italian news outlets reported that people on the boat were from Britain, New Zealand, Sri Lanka, and Ireland.

British-French citizens were also among those on the superyacht, according to reports.

'I saw it sinking with my own eyes'

Pietro Asciutto, a fisherman from Porticello who witnessed the storm, told local media: "I was at home when the tornado hit. I immediately closed all the windows. Then I saw the boat, it had only one mast, it was very big. I saw it suddenly sink."

He added: "I think the whirlwind came from Porticello... shortly afterwards I went down to Santa Nicolicchia Bay to get a better look at what was happening.

"The boat was still floating, then all of a sudden it disappeared. I saw it sinking with my own eyes."

Fabio Cefalu, another local fisherman, called rescue services after spotting the wrecked boat off Porticello.

He said: "Around 3.55am we witnessed the whirlwind. After a quarter of an hour, we saw a flare 500 metres away from the dock.

"Around 4:35am we went out to sea for the rescue, however, we only saw the remains of the boat floating. There were no men in the sea. So we immediately called the harbour master's office."

A spokesman for the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) said: "We are in contact with the local authorities following an incident in Sicily, and stand ready to provide consular support to British nationals affected."

Camper and Nicholsons, which provided yacht management services for the Bayesian, has confirmed the vessel sank at around 4.30am local time.

The company said in a statement: "The Italian coast guard is leading search and rescue operations, and has safely recovered 15 individuals. Efforts to locate the seven missing persons continue.

"Our priority is assisting with the ongoing search and providing all necessary support to the rescued passengers and crew."

Online charter sites listed the Bayesian as available for rent for up to €195,000 (about £166,339) a week.

Related Topics

• Superyacht sinking

The global authority in superyachting

• NEWSLETTERS
• Yachts Home
• The Superyacht Directory
• Yacht Reports
• Brokerage News
• The largest yachts in the world
• The Register
• Yacht Advice
• Yacht Design
• 12m to 24m yachts
• Monaco Yacht Show
• Builder Directory
• Designer Directory
• Interior Design Directory
• Naval Architect Directory
• Yachts for sale home
• Motor yachts
• Sailing yachts
• Explorer yachts
• Classic yachts
• Sale Broker Directory
• Charter Home
• Yachts for Charter
• Charter Destinations
• Charter Broker Directory
• Destinations Home
• Mediterranean
• South Pacific
• Rest of the World
• Boat Life Home
• Owners' Experiences
• Conservation and Philanthropy
• Interiors Suppliers
• Owners' Club
• Captains' Club
• BOAT Showcase
• Boat Presents
• Events Home
• World Superyacht Awards
• Superyacht Design Festival
• Design and Innovation Awards
• Young Designer of the Year Award
• Artistry and Craft Awards
• Explorer Yachts Summit
• Ocean Talks
• The Ocean Awards
• BOAT Connect
• Between the bays
• Golf Invitational
• BOATPro Home
• Superyacht Insight
• Global Order Book
• Premium Content
• Product Features
• Testimonials
• Pricing Plan
• Tenders & Equipment

World's Best Superyachts Recognised at 2020 World Superyacht Awards

The world’s best superyachts have been recognised at the 15th edition of the World Superyacht Awards .

Dubbed the ‘Oscars of the yachting industry’, the awards took place during a virtual ceremony hosted by Natasha Kaplinsky on Friday, November 13.

For those who missed our virtual ceremony you can catch up on all the highlights below.

Almost 60 nominees were whittled down by a discerning judging panel of 20 current and former yacht owners.

A global audience tuned in to watch the event, which saw 16 coveted Neptune awards handed out to the owners and builders of this year’s standout superyachts .

Key winners of the evening included the 77.3 metre Feadship superyacht Pi , which won two awards, including the coveted Motor Yacht of the Year award. Elsewhere, the Baltic sailing yacht Canova was named Sailing Yacht of the Year while Hodor triumphed in the support vessel category.

Speaking about the awards, BOAT International editor-in-chief Stewart Campbell said it had been an “exceptional year for the superyacht sector”.

“The winners of these awards represent the absolute pinnacle of yacht design and construction and on behalf of the team at BOAT International , I’d like to offer heart-felt congratulations to this year’s winners.”

Toby Moore, co-CEO of BOAT International Media , added: “This year’s World Superyacht Awards winners include remarkable ingenuity and innovation in design, engineering and construction. We’re very proud that we have built such a world-renowned platform that rewards truly exceptional yacht owners and shipyards from around the globe.”

The ceremony included video messages from Prince Albert II of Monaco and Sir Ben Ainslie , who updated viewers on the progress of the UK’s America’s Cup team INEOS Team UK.

The virtual World Superyacht Awards was sponsored by superyacht shipyards Azimut-Benetti , Feadship , Lürssen alongside lighting and glass specialist Lasvit . Dom Perignon was the official champagne sponsor.

Sign up to BOAT Briefing email

Latest news, brokerage headlines and yacht exclusives, every weekday

By signing up for BOAT newsletters, you agree to our Terms of Use and our Privacy Policy .

More stories

Most popular, from our partners, sponsored listings.