The Eclipse courtesy of boatinternational
The Costa del Sol is not just a haven for holidaying travelers and beach lovers; it’s a playground for the rich and famous who travel in style on superyachts. A superyacht, or megayacht, is a large luxury vessel with professional staff and crew. Every summer, the coastlines of Marbella, Puerto Banús, and Sotogrande are graced by some of the world's most opulent superyachts that attract enthusiasts from all over the world. These floating palaces, each a marvel of engineering and design, are not just ogled for their size but for the sheer indulgence they represent. Here are seven super yachts recently sighted on the Costa del Sol that have set the standard for luxury living at sea.
1. Eclipse
The Eclipse, sighted at Puerto Banús in Marbella, belongs to Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich, the owner of Millhouse Capital. This yacht is one of the most famous in the world, particularly noted for its incredible security features. Built by Blohm+Voss in Germany, the Eclipse can host up to 36 guests in 18 cabins and carries a crew of 70. Measuring 162.5 metres, it was the world's largest yacht when launched in December 2010. Its impressive amenities include two helicopter pads, a disco hall, a swimming pool that converts into a dance floor, and even a missile detection system. The yacht's enormous size and the mystery surrounding its interior have contributed to its legendary status in the yachting world. Terence Disdale designed the interior and exterior.
The Dilbar at night by lurssen.com
2. Dilbar
The Dilbar is the 6th longest yacht in the world. It’s frequently sighted at Sotogrande Marina, is owned by metals magnate Alisher Usmanov. He is the primary shareholder of USM Holdings, and owns Metalloinvest and Kommersant publishing house. The Dilbar is also the largest yacht in the world by interior volume. Constructed by Lürssen Yachts in Germany and delivered in May 2016, this super yacht can house up to 24 guests in 12 lavish suites, along with a crew of 96. Dilbar measures 156 metres and is a true giant on the seas, featuring a 25-metre swimming pool, the largest ever installed on a yacht, as well as a stunning beach club. Although the interior is a closely guarded secret, it is rumoured to include a ballroom, spa, and a high-tech cinema, making it the pinnacle of luxury.
The Azzam was spotted docked at the port of Cádiz (Spain), 24 August 2020 via WikiCommons
3. Azzam
The Azzam, spotted at Puerto Banús in Marbella, is owned by former UAE President Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s estate and holds the title of the fastest super yacht in the world. Built by Lürssen Yachts in Germany, Azzam can accommodate 36 guests with a crew of 60. At 180 metres, it is not only one of the longest yachts but also one of the fastest, capable of reaching speeds over 30 knots. Its interior, designed by Christophe Leoni, is inspired by the Empire style, combining opulence with exquisite craftsmanship, making it a stunning example of luxury at sea.
The Octopus in 2009 compared to other yachts. By Plyd, Public Domain
4. Octopus
Octopus, a regular sight at Málaga Port, was owned by the late Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen and is now part of his estate. Known for its role in scientific research and exploration, Octopus was also built by Lürssen Yachts in Germany. It offers space for 26 guests in 13 cabins, with a crew of 63. Measuring 126 metres, this super yacht is equipped for discovery, housing a submarine, two helicopters, and a recording studio. Octopus has been used for multiple deep-sea explorations and even helped locate the wreck of the WWII battleship, Musashi, further cementing its reputation as a vessel of both luxury and adventure.
The Serene in 2011 via WikiCommons
5. Serene
Serene, seen anchored at the Port of Málaga, is owned by Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia, Mohammed bin Salman and is one of the most expensive yachts ever built. Constructed by Fincantieri in Italy, Serene can host up to 24 guests with a crew of 52. Measuring 134 metres, this yacht was originally built for Russian vodka tycoon Yuri Shefler and includes multiple swimming pools, a snow room, a steam room, and even a climbing wall. Serene's sleek design and unparalleled luxury have made it a favourite among billionaires, exemplifying the height of extravagance on the seas.
Lady Moura courtesy of boatinternational
6. Lady Moura
Lady Moura, often seen at Puerto Banús in Marbella, is owned by businessman and billionaire Nasser Al-Rashid (he is the chairman of Rashid Engineering and oversees major construction projects in Saudi Arabia) and was one of the first yachts to feature a helipad. Built by Blohm+Voss in Germany, Lady Moura can accommodate 30 guests and a crew of 60. Launched in 1990, this 105-metre yacht set a new standard for luxury with its gold-plated nameplate and opulent interior. The yacht features a retractable roof pool, a beach club, and even a hospital, reflecting the grand vision of its Saudi owner and establishing Lady Moura as a classic in the world of super yachts.
The Aquijo via boatinternational
7. Aquijo
Aquijo, seen regularly at Sotogrande Marina, is owned by Norweigan businessman Kjell Inge Røkke, known for his fishing and industrial investments company, and is the world’s largest high-performance ketch. This super yacht, built by Oceanco and Vitters in the Netherlands, is designed to accommodate 14 guests in 7 staterooms with a crew of 17. Measuring 86 metres, Aquijo combines the amenities of a super yacht with the thrill of a sailing yacht. The interior was designed by Doelker & Voges and built with a steel hull and aluminum superstructure. It features a beach club, jacuzzi, and a spacious interior designed for comfort at sea. The yacht’s dual-mast design allows for impressive speeds under sail, making it a favourite among those who love both luxury and adventure.
For more information on living, investing, and traveling on the Costa del Sol visit ultimate-lifesyles.com