an image, when javascript is unavailable

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

Boat of the Week: Inside the 7-Year Quest to Build ‘Dream Symphony,’ the World’s Largest Sailboat

Dream symphony may be the most amazing boat we'll never see. years after its owner dropped the project, it sits idle in a turkish shipyard., julia zaltzman, julia zaltzman's most recent stories.

  • These Charter Yachts Let You Tag Hammerhead Sharks and Count Spirit Bears for Research
  • These Luxe Villas Are the Place to Stay in This Retro-Chic Enclave on the Tuscan Coast
  • The 7 Most Exciting New Superyacht Marinas in the World
  • Share This Article

Dream Symphony Besides Maltese Falcon

Size matters: If Dream Symphony is ever completed, it would dwarf the 289-foot Maltese Falcon, currently the world’s fourth-largest sailing yacht.

When Dream Symphony was first announced in 2014, the yachting world was all aflutter. At 462 feet in length, it promised to be not only the largest yacht produced in Turkey, but the largest sailing yacht ever built (except for the sail-assisted motoryacht Sailing Yacht A, which is technically more motorsailer than sailboat).

Related Stories

Rescuers find 5 bodies aboard the sunken ‘bayesian’ superyacht .

  • BMW Is Making an ‘Entry-Level’ Race Car Based on the M2
  • Why McLaren Wants Its Supercars to Sell for Higher Prices

Even more incredible is that Dream Symphony was to be constructed entirely out of wood. The use of epoxy laminated iroko (African teak) forms an integral part of boatbuilder Dream Ship Victory’s vision to successfully bring laminated wood into modern shipbuilding. The yard has a successful track record. In 2013, it delivered the 212-foot Mikhail S. Vorontsov , built entirely out of laminated mahogany.

At more than double the length, Dream Symphony is a much larger technical challenge. Of course, the biggest challenge since its announcement seven years ago has been finding an owner—or rather a second owner. After the initial brouhaha about the world’s largest sailboat, Dream Symphony went dark.

Dream Symphony will be the largest sailing yacht ever completed, if it is ever built

The sleek, minimalist hull works well with the yacht’s 462-foot length.  Courtesy Ken Freivokh

“The original owner pulled out when the Ukrainian crisis came about,” Dream Symphony ’s designer Ken Freivokh told Robb Report . “The project went on up to a point, a bit slower, but now we’re looking for a new owner.”

Actually, the project has been stalled. Freivokh shared images of a partially built hull inside the shipyard, and he says it has since progressed, but not to the point where it’s anything resembling his majestic renderings. While gigayachts in the motoryacht segment are being ordered and delivered with regularity, the world’s-largest sailing yacht will require a very special owner.

When—or if —the yacht is completed, it will be worth the wait. Dream Symphony reunites the same A-team that conceived the iconic sailing superyachts, the 350-foot Black Pearl and 289-foot Maltese Falcon . The hull design and engineering were completed by Dykstra Naval Architects, while Freivokh was responsible for the interior and exterior.

“Building the largest sailing yacht is what the shipyard owner has always wanted to achieve,” says Freivokh. The shipyard’s preference for wood is based on the material’s renewable and recyclable properties. But the yard’s principals take it a step farther by asserting that wood produces a vessel of “equal or even greater strength” than steel and aluminum.

Dream Symphony Sailing Yacht

An early image of Dream Symphony under construction. The build has progressed, but is still waiting for an owner to see it to completion.  Courtesy Ken Freivokh

It has not been smooth sailing, though. When Dream Ship Victory approached RINA to certify construction, the Italian marine agency balked. It had never certified any wooden vessel over 98.4-feet in length. There followed an exacting process managed by Dykstra Naval Architects, involving composite experts Gurit, and exhaustive testing by laboratories at the Delft University of Technology in Holland and Italy’s University of Messina. The results satisfied RINA to certify construction and the build began.

“It’s almost the equivalent of a huge composite build,” said Freivokh. “The epoxy lamination is quite a complex system, but it preserves the wood, which means it should last a long time and behave very predictably.”

The original owner called for elegant use of wood across the interior. “The idea was to express the beauty of wood, so the owner was keen to have a fairly classic interior, and even the exterior is a modern interpretation of a classic,” says Freivokh. “At one point, we considered a contemporary style like Black Pearl , but the owner resisted that in favor of something more traditional, so it stands as a four-masted schooner.”

The four masts tower 229.7 feet above the water, carrying furling staysails on Hoyt booms with a total sail area 54,680 square feet. If built, the boat will also have a diesel-electric propulsion system for a maximum range under power of 5,900 nautical miles. A two-deck atrium with a spiral staircase is twinned with an owner’s duplex apartment spread across two decks. The “convertible conservatory” links the owner’s living quarters with the main lobby via an glass winter garden that opens to the elements. More glass features in the double-height glass swimming pool on the aft deck, with a bottom that rises to serve as a dance floor or helipad. Like motoryachts its size, Dream Symphony was designed with a spa, treatment rooms and gym.

Dream Symphony is the world's largest sailing superyacht

The interior is designed to be classic, rather than contemporary, using mahogany throughout.  Courtesy Ken Freivokh

Freivokh is now working on two other wooden superyachts currently in build at Dream Ship Victory, and is finalizing a 243-foot yacht for Turquoise, another Turkish yard. “Owners who want to build in wood still remain in the minority, but it’s highly personal and some just love the passion of associated with beautiful old classics,” says the designer.

Perhaps. But the new owner has to be willing to take on a much larger technical challenge to claim the title of world’s largest sailboat.

Read More On:

  • Ken Freivokh

More Marine

Bayesian Rescue Efforts

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

Candela P-12

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

Bee Yacht

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

magazine cover

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

New Launches Cannes Yachting Festival

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

Project Secret by Italy's Tankoa yard.

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

More from our brands, john legend goes ‘crazy’ for balmain in shimmering suit for performance with sheila e at the 2024 democratic national convention, nwsl expansion talks include cincinnati and denver, is the dnc stuck in the past, why climate protesters should keep targeting museums, the best yoga mats for any practice, according to instructors.

Quantcast

Largest Sailing Yachts in the World (with Price & Owners)

largest wooden sailing yacht

In this list of the largest sailing yachts in the world, you'll discover the top 20 remarkable ones, from the groundbreaking Sailing Yacht A at 469 feet to Jeff Bezos' massive Y721 (aka Koru) that spans 416 feet. The owners of these magnificent yachts are often influential figures in various industries, such as technology, finance, and real estate.

Sailing Yacht "A", the largest sailing yacht in the world, is owned by Russian billionaire Andrey Melnichenko, who also owns Mikhail S. Vorontsov and Hetairos. Other large sailing yachts are:

  • Black Pearl
  • Maltese Falcon
  • Sea Eagle II

The yachting industry is bound to keep evolving and pushing the limits of what's possible. Who knows, maybe by 2024, the new Somnio "yacht-liner" might redefine our concept of luxury sailing altogether. For now, let's get to know more about these 20 sailing yachts, their prices, and their owners.

  • Sailing Yacht "A", built in 2015, is worth $600 million. It can accommodate 20 guests and 54 crew members.
  • The largest sailing yacht was designed by Philippe Starck and built by the German shipyard Nobiskrug.
  • Andrey Melnichenko is a prominent figure in the worlds of business, yachting, and philanthropy.
  • Top-notch industry players such as Oceanco, Lürssen, Royal Huisman, and Vitters Shipyard are known for their attention to detail and form-function balance, which could potentially increase the yacht's price.

On this page:

20 largest sailing yachts, the largest sailing yacht in the world, world's largest yacht is owned by....

Price Owner
$600 million Russian billionaire Andrey Melnichenko
$500-600 million Amazon founder Jeff Bezos
$50-100 million
$200 million Russian billionaire Oleg Burlakov
$150-200 million American fashion designer Diane von Fürstenberg and American businessman Barry Diller
$100 million American billionaire Jim Clark
$100 million Greek socialite Elena Ambrosiadou
$90 million
$100-150 million
$50-60 million American businessman Rodney Lewis
$50-70 million
$30-40 million American billionaire Bill Duker
$100-120 million Norwegian billionaire and entrepreneur Kjell Inge Røkke
$75 million Russian billionaire Andrey Melnichenko
$10-20 million
$100-150 million Russian billionaire Andrey Melnichenko
$50 million
$30-40 million Italian fashion designer Pier Luigi Loro Piana
$30-40 million
$8-10 million

largest wooden sailing yacht

Sailing Yacht A — 142.81M (468.6 Ft.)

You may have heard of Sailing Yacht A, a luxurious superyacht measuring 143 meters in length. Owned by Russian billionaire Andrey Melnichenko, this yacht is famous for its blend of modern design and cutting-edge technology. Its price is estimated to be around $500 million.

Sailing Yacht "A" is unique for its futuristic design, which includes a towering masts that are among the tallest in the world, a curved hull, and a striking all-black exterior. The yacht also features a state-of-the-art hybrid propulsion system that allows it to sail silently and efficiently under wind power, as well as a range of luxurious amenities such as a swimming pool, a helipad, and a spa.

Specification Value
Length 143m (469ft)
Number of Guests 20 guests
Designer Philippe Starck
Price $600 million

Koru — 127M (416 Ft.)

Amazon founder Jeff Bezos owns the breathtaking Oceanco's record-breaking 127-meter sailing yacht, Koru. This sailing giant was built in the Netherlands in 2023.

Koru is unique for its custom design, which was created by the renowned naval architect Ron Holland and features a sleek and modern exterior with clean lines and a metallic silver finish. The yacht also features a range of luxurious amenities, including a beach club, a cinema, and a spa, as well as a hybrid propulsion system that allows for efficient and flexible sailing.

Sea Cloud — 109.5M (359 Ft.)

At 109.52 meters, the elegant Sea Cloud is a breathtaking four-masted sailing ship built in 1931. It operates primarily as a luxurious charter yacht, providing guests with a unique, unforgettable experience.

Sea Cloud is unique for its historic charm and elegance, having been built in 1931 as a private yacht for a wealthy American couple. The yacht has since been restored and converted into a luxury cruise ship, but still retains many of its original features, including a wooden deck, brass fittings, and period furnishings. Sea Cloud also offers a unique sailing experience, with guests able to help hoist the sails and steer the ship.

largest wooden sailing yacht

Black Pearl — 106.7M (350 Ft.)

The eco-friendly Black Pearl, measuring 106.7 meters in length, boasts state-of-the-art DynaRig technology and holds the title of the world's largest sailing yacht, at least, when it comes to sail area.

Black Pearl is unique for its advanced technology and cutting-edge design, including a revolutionary DynaRig sail system that allows for efficient and flexible sailing, as well as a hybrid propulsion system that can switch seamlessly between diesel and electric power. The yacht also features a range of luxurious amenities, including a beach club, a cinema, and a spa.

Eos — 93M (305 Ft.)

The stunning 92.92-meter sailing yacht Eos has a classic design and high-performance capabilities. Owned by American fashion designer Diane von Fürstenberg and American businessman Barry Diller, it is one of the largest private sailing yachts in the world.

Eos is unique for its size and spacious interior, which includes a range of luxurious amenities such as a full-size bar, a cinema, and a spa. The yacht also features a hybrid propulsion system that allows for efficient and flexible sailing, as well as a classic and elegant design with traditional features such as wooden decks and brass fittings.

Athena — 90M (295 Ft.)

Athena, an impressive 90-meter superyacht, includes five en-suite cabins, a gym, and a library. Built by Royal Huisman, this classic schooner combines luxury with deep sea exploration capabilities.

Athena is unique for its classic design and traditional sailing techniques, having been modeled after the famous J-class yachts of the 1930s. The yacht features a wooden hull, a towering mast, and a range of vintage features such as brass fittings and period furnishings. Athena also offers a range of luxurious amenities, including a swimming pool, a gym, and a library.

Maltese Falcon — 88M (289 Ft.)

You'll be amazed by the innovative Maltese Falcon, a 88-meter sailing yacht. It features a revolutionary DynaRig system and is owned by Greek socialite Elena Ambrosiadou.

Maltese Falcon is unique for its innovative DynaRig sail system, which allows for efficient and flexible sailing without the need for traditional sails and rigging. The yacht also features a range of luxurious amenities, including a beach club, a cinema, and a spa, as well as a unique interior design that combines modern and traditional elements.

Aquijo — 85.9M (282 Ft.)

The 85-meter superyacht Aquijo is the perfect example of elegance and high-performance on the water. With an impressive interior, it offers the ultimate sailing experience.

Aquijo is unique for its large size and spacious interior, which includes a main salon with a double-height ceiling, a full-size bar, and a dining area that can seat up to 20 guests. The yacht also features a range of luxurious amenities, including a beach club, a cinema, and a spa, as well as a unique hybrid propulsion system that allows for efficient and flexible sailing.

Sea Eagle II — 81M (266 Ft.)

The 81-meter Sea Eagle II, built by Royal Huisman, features a plumb bow, an exceptional sailing performance, and spacious interiors.

Sea Eagle II is unique for its classic design and traditional sailing techniques, having been modeled after the historic tall ships of the 19th century. The yacht features a wooden hull, a towering mast, and a range of vintage features such as brass fittings and period furnishings. Sea Eagle II also offers a range of luxurious amenities, including a beach club, a cinema, and a spa, as well as a spacious and comfortable interior with a classic and elegant design.

largest wooden sailing yacht

M5 — 78.4M (257.2 Ft.)

Owned by American businessman Rodney Lewis, the 75-meter M5 is a luxurious yacht built by Southern Ocean Marine with impressive sailing capabilities.

M5 is unique for its advanced sail system, which includes a set of high-tech carbon-fiber sails that can be adjusted automatically to optimize performance and efficiency. The yacht also features a range of luxurious amenities, including a beach club, a cinema, and a spa, as well as a sleek and modern interior design with clean lines and contemporary furnishings.

Enigma — 74.5M (244 Ft.)

Enigma, formerly known as Phocea, is a 75-meter sailing yacht known for her sleek profile and extraordinary speed capabilities.

Enigma is unique for its sleek and modern design, which includes a striking silver exterior and a minimalist interior with clean lines and contemporary furnishings. The yacht also features a range of luxurious amenities, including a beach club, a cinema, and a spa, as well as a hybrid propulsion system that allows for efficient and flexible sailing.

Badis I — 70M (230 Ft.)

Badis 1, a 70.8-meter sailing yacht, boasts a stunning aluminum hull, a powerful rig, and a luxurious interior accommodating up to 12 guests.

Badis I is unique for its classic design and traditional sailing techniques, having been modeled after the famous J-class yachts of the 1930s. The yacht features a wooden hull, a towering mast, and a range of vintage features such as brass fittings and period furnishings. Badis I also offers a range of luxurious amenities, including a beach club, a cinema, and a spa, as well as a spacious and comfortable interior with a classic and elegant design.

Vertigo — 67.2M (220 Ft.)

Famed for its contemporary design, Vertigo is a 67-meter sailing yacht built by Alloy Yachts. With impressive features and an award-winning interior, it's a dream come true for sailing enthusiasts.

Vertigo is unique for its striking and modern design, which includes a sleek and minimalist exterior and a spacious and comfortable interior with clean lines and contemporary furnishings. The yacht also features a range of luxurious amenities, including a beach club, a cinema, and a spa, as well as a hybrid propulsion system that allows for efficient and flexible sailing.

Hetairos — 66.7M (219 Ft.)

Hetairos, owned by a Russian billionaire, is a 66.7-meter high-performance sailing yacht. With an advanced composite hull, it promises excellent speed and luxurious amenities.

Hetairos is unique for its advanced composite construction, which makes it one of the fastest and most efficient sailing yachts in the world. The yacht also features a range of luxurious amenities, including a beach club, a cinema, and a spa, as well as a striking black and silver exterior design.

Adix — 65.5M (215 Ft.)

The 65.5-meter three-masted schooner Adix is a beautiful sailing yacht known for its timeless design and quality craftsmanship.

Adix is unique for its classic design and traditional sailing techniques, having been modeled after the historic tall ships of the 19th century. The yacht features a wooden hull, a towering mast, and a range of vintage features such as brass fittings and period furnishings. Adix also offers a range of luxurious amenities, including a beach club, a cinema, and a spa, as well as a spacious and comfortable interior with a classic and elegant design.

largest wooden sailing yacht

Mikhail S. Vorontsov — 63.4M (208 Ft.)

The Mikhail S. Vorontsov is a 64.5-meter sailing yacht with a completely wooden hull, offering a classic and captivating charm.

Mikhail S. Vorontsov is unique for its opulent and extravagant design, which includes a range of luxurious features such as a grand staircase, a full-size ballroom, and a range of ornate decorations and furnishings. The yacht also features a range of modern amenities, including a beach club, a cinema, and a spa, as well as a hybrid propulsion system that allows for efficient and flexible sailing.

Perseus^3 — 60M (197 Ft.)

The high-performance sailing yacht Perseus^3, measuring 60 meters in length, includes a carbon-fiber mast, a powerful regatta rig, and cutting-edge features for the ultimate sailing experience.

Perseus^3 is unique for its advanced sail system, which includes a set of high-tech carbon-fiber sails that can be adjusted automatically to optimize performance and efficiency. The yacht also features a range of luxurious amenities, including a beach club, a cinema, and a spa, as well as a sleek and modern interior design.

Ngoni — 58M (190 Ft.)

Ngoni, a stunning 58-meter sailing yacht built by Royal Huisman, is known for its innovative design and advanced sailing technology.

Ngoni is unique for its unconventional design, which includes a striking black and gold exterior and a minimalist interior with clean lines and contemporary furnishings. The yacht also features a range of luxurious amenities, including a beach club, a cinema, and a spa, as well as a hybrid propulsion system that allows for efficient and flexible sailing.

Twizzle — 57.5M (188 Ft.)

Last but not least, the 57.5-meter sailing yacht Twizzle offers exceptional sailing performance paired with timeless elegance, making for a luxurious experience on the water.

Twizzle is unique for its spacious and comfortable interior, which includes a range of luxurious amenities such as a full-size bar, a cinema, and a spa. The yacht also features a hybrid propulsion system that allows for efficient and flexible sailing, as well as a sleek and modern design with clean lines and contemporary furnishings.

Fleurtje — 57.4M (188 Ft.)

Fleurtje is a classic sailing yacht that was built in 1961 by the Dutch shipyard De Vries Lentsch. The yacht underwent a major refit in 1993, which included the installation of a new engine, a new mast, and a range of modern amenities.

Fleurtje features a classic design with a wooden hull and a traditional rig, which gives it a timeless and elegant appearance. The yacht also features a spacious and comfortable interior with a range of luxurious amenities, including a full-size bar, a cinema, and a spa. It is also known for its impressive sailing performance, with a top speed of 12 knots under sail and a range of advanced technologies that allow for efficient and flexible sailing.

Is Sailing Yacht "A", which is 143 meters long, 24.88 meters wide, has a draft of 8 meters, and weighs 1428 tons. It can accommodate 20 guests, and has 54 crew members.

Length Beam (Width) Draft Weight
143m (469ft) 24.88m (81'7") 8m (26'3") 1428 tons
127m (416ft) 9.3m (30'6") 3.8m (12'6") 300 tons
109.5m (359ft) 14m (46') 5.2m (17'1") 220 tons
106.7m (350ft) 15m (49'3") 8m (26'3") 2900 tons
93m (305ft) 13.5m (44'3") 7.5m (24'7") 1500 tons
90m (295ft) 12.2m (40') 5.8m (19') 525 tons
88m (289ft) 12.6m (41'4") 6m (19'8") 1200 tons
85.9m (282ft) 17.68m (58') 7.85m (25'9") 855 tons
81m (266ft) 10.6m (34'9") 5.6m (18'4") 460 tons
78.4m (257.2ft) 9.5m (31'2") 4.9m (16'1") 170 tons
74.5m (244ft) 10.8m (35'5") 5.5m (18') 1050 tons
70m (230ft) 7.9m (26') 4.8m (15'9") 175 tons
67.2m (220ft) 7.9m (26') 4.5m (14'9") 837 tons
66.7m (219ft) 10.8m (35'5") 7.5m (24'7") 240 tons
65.5m (215ft) 8.5m (27'11") 4.8m (15'9") 236 tons
63.4m (208ft) 12.2m (40') 6.1m (20') 1050 tons
60m (197ft) 12.8m (42') 12.3m (40'4") 469 tons
58m (190ft) 9.5m (31'2") 5.5m (18') 287 tons
57.5m (188ft) 11.2m (36'9") 5.5m (18') 270 tons
57.4m (188ft) 9.5m (31') 4.3m (14.1') 316 tons

The crew sizes, and operating costs of these yachts can vary widely depending on a number of factors, including the size and complexity of the yacht, the level of luxury and amenities onboard, and the location and frequency of use.

Number of Guests Crew Size Operating Costs
20 guests 54 people $20 million or more
10 guests 36 people $10-20 million
64 guests 60 people $5-10 million
12 guests 35 people $10-15 million
16 guests 21 people $5-10 million
10 guests 20 people $5-10 million
12 guests 18 people $5-10 million
12 guests 17 people $5-10 million
12 guests 14 people $5-10 million
10 guests 11 people $2-4 million
12 guests 20 people $5-10 million
8 guests 16 people $3-5 million
12 guests 12 people $2-4 million
10 guests 18 people $5-10 million
8 guests 16 people $1-2 million
12 guests 10 people $5-10 million
12 guests 12 people $3-5 million
8 guests 13 people $3-5 million
8 guests 14 people $3-5 million
12 guests 15 people $1 million or more

Russian billionaire Andrey Melnichenko. Melnichenko is known for his extravagant lifestyle and his love of luxury yachts. He is the owner of the largest and iconic Sailing Yacht "A", which is considered one of the most expensive and technologically advanced yachts ever built. He is also the owner of the motor yacht "A", which was built by the same shipyard as Sailing Yacht "A" and features a similarly striking design.

Melnichenko was born on March 8, 1972, in Gomel, Belarus. In addition to his business and yachting interests, Melnichenko is also a philanthropist who supports a range of charitable causes through his Andrey & Aleksandra Melnichenko Foundation. The foundation focuses on supporting education, science, and culture, and has provided funding for a range of projects in Russia and around the world.

Melnichenko is one of the wealthiest people in Russia, with a net worth of over $18 billion, according to Forbes. He made his fortune in the energy and chemical industries, having founded the fertilizer producer EuroChem and the coal producer SUEK. He is also a major shareholder in the power company Siberian Generating Company and the pipe producer TMK.

Designer Builder Year Modification
Philippe Starck Nobiskrug 2015
Ron Holland Design Bilgin Yachts 1990 Refitted in 2015
Cox & Stevens Krupp Germaniawerft 1931 Restored in 1978 and 1995
Ken Freivokh Design Oceanco 2018 Converted from a commercial vessel to a luxury yacht in 2016-2018
Bill Langan and François Catroux Lürssen 2006 Refitted in 2011-2012
Pieter Beeldsnijder and Rebecca Bradley Royal Huisman 2004 Refitted in 2011
Ken Freivokh Design and Gerard Dijkstra & Partners Perini Navi 2006 Refitted in 2015-2016
Bill Tripp and Dölker + Voges Oceanco and Vitters Shipyard 2016
Dykstra Naval Architects and Mark Whiteley Design Royal Huisman 2020
Ron Holland Vitters Shipyard 2004 Refitted in 2016-2017
Michel Bigoin DCAN 1976 Refitted in 1999-2000
Pieter Beeldsnijder and Dick Young Designs Royal Huisman 1985 Refitted in 2017
Philippe Briand and Christian Liaigre Alloy Yachts 2011
Dykstra Naval Architects and Reichel/Pugh Yacht Design Baltic Yachts 2011 Refitted in 2018-2019
Arthur Holgate and John G. Alden Astilleros de Mallorca 1984 Refitted in 2012-2013
Ken Freivokh Design Dream Ship Victory 2013
Ron Holland Design and Perini Navi Perini Navi 2015
Dubois Naval Architects and Rick Baker Ltd Royal Huisman 2017
Dubois Naval Architects and Redman Whiteley Dixon Royal Huisman 2010 Refitted in 2015
De Vries Lentsch De Vries Lentsch 1961 Refitted in 1993

Leave a comment

You may also like, how much are luxury yachts (buying & owning 2023).

Luxury yacht options can range from smaller luxury vessels to massive superyachts that boast numerous amenities and state-of-the-art technology. When you're …

largest wooden sailing yacht

Cost to Rent a Mediterranean Superyacht: Less Than You Think

largest wooden sailing yacht

Average Cost of Buying & Owning a Yacht in India (with 4 examples)

largest wooden sailing yacht

Average Cost of Buying & Owning a Yacht in Dubai (2023)

largest wooden sailing yacht

Who Owns the Yachts On Below Deck? (Valor, Ohana, My Seanna)

largest wooden sailing yacht

Building the largest sailing yacht in the world

Published 12 April 2021

At 141m (462.6ft), the sheer scale of Project DREAM SYMPHONY is jaw dropping, the engineering involved is ground breaking, and when a new owner is found and she sets sail, she will have pushed back the technical boundaries of yacht classification.

Currently in build at Dream Ship Victory's yard in Bozburun,  Turkey , is a sailing yacht project of quite staggering scale. DREAM SYMPHONY is a 141m (462.6ft) four-masted schooner-rigged sailing yacht. To put that in context, the largest sailing yacht under canvas today is the 106m (347.8ft) BLACK PEARL. DREAM SYMPHONY is over 30 percent longer - indeed she is only 1.8m (5.8ft) away from equalling the world's longest masted vessel, the sail assisted motor yacht A. Length, however, is only part of this story's ambition, as we will discover.

A natural solution

The yacht features hull design and engineering by Dykstra Naval Architects and interiors by Ken Freivokh, the same team that imagined BLACK PEARL and the 88m (288.6ft) MALTESE FALCON. However, whereas BLACK PEARL, A and MALTESE FALCON all feature steel and aluminium construction, DREAM SYMPHONY is being constructed from an entirely natural material: wood. Epoxy laminated iroko to be specific.

SYMPHONY - Building the largest sailing yacht in the world.

The use of wood was quite deliberate. It is entirely renewable and recyclable, it provides a warmer environment and, correctly constructed, a vessel of equal or even greater strength compared to steel and aluminium yachts.

SYMPHONY - Building the largest sailing yacht in the world.

The yard approached RINA to certify construction and there they ran into a problem: RINA had never certified any wooden structure over 30m in length. There followed an exacting scientific research project managed by Dykstra Naval Architects, involving composite experts SP-High Modulus, now Gurit, and exhaustive testing by laboratories at the Delft University of Technology in Holland and Italy's University of Messina. The results satisfied RINA to certify construction and the build began.

SYMPHONY - Building the largest sailing yacht in the world.

'Unique design'

Externally she is characterised by delicious soft curves, from the hull-deck joint to the modular superstructure, both featuring an abundance of glass. Above, four masts, towering 70m (229.7ft) above the water carry furling staysails on Hoyt booms for ease of handling, totalling 5,080sqm (54,680sqft) of sail area. In flat calms she has a high tech diesel electric propulsion system giving her a maximum range under power of 5,900nm.

SYMPHONY - Building the largest sailing yacht in the world.

Comfortably creative

Freivokh's interior, a contemporary interpretation of traditional nautical stylings, is designed to enhance the warm ambience of wood and echo the historical importance of wood as a vessel building material. The result is universal in its appeal and understated in its magnificence, celebrating the space.

SYMPHONY - Building the largest sailing yacht in the world.

Key features include and two deck atrium with a spiral staircase and an owner's duplex apartment with bedroom, bathroom and private lounge on the lower deck and the saloon and office on the main deck. A 'convertible conservatory' creates an all weather winter garden between the owner's living quarters and the main lobby.

SYMPHONY - Building the largest sailing yacht in the world.

Other features include a circular double height glass swimming pool on the aft deck, with a bottom that rises to serve as a dancefloor for entertainment purposes or as a helipad. She also has meeting rooms, spa facilities with hair and nail salons and a massage room, and a gym.

SYMPHONY - Building the largest sailing yacht in the world.

A new age awaits

Construction is currently on hold as she is looking for a new owner but when she does launch, she will redefine superyacht sailing for the modern age in a way that honours the past and acknowledges the future. Sleek, stylish and outstandingly impressive, she will be an utterly unmistakable feature in the finest destinations around the world.

To find out more about this extraordinary project, please  contact your Burgess broker .

SYMPHONY - Building the largest sailing yacht in the world.

To find out more about Burgess’  yachts for sale and  yachts for charter , please  contact a Burgess broker . Alternatively, get in touch with one of our offices directly:  London ,  Monaco ,  New York ,  Miami ,  Singapore or  all other locations .

- Yachts, prices and availability are correct at the time of publication.

  • Build a yacht
  • Buy a yacht

Latest stories

largest wooden sailing yacht

Upcoming events

largest wooden sailing yacht

Sign up to our newsletter

Stay in the loop.

Subscribe to our newsletter to keep updated with all things Burgess.

What would you like emails about?

  • Chartering a yacht
  • Buying or selling a yacht
  • General superyacht news

In order to understand how we use and protect your personal information, please read our privacy policy .

  • Mediterranean
  • French Riviera
  • Corsica & Sardinia
  • The Balearics
  • Croatia & Montenegro
  • The Bahamas
  • Caribbean - Leeward Islands
  • Caribbean - Windward Islands
  • British Virgin Islands
  • US Virgin Islands
  • New England
  • Indian Ocean
  • The Red Sea
  • South East Asia
  • New Zealand
  • French Polynesia
  • Motor yachts for charter
  • Sailing yachts for charter
  • Latest offers
  • Destinations
  • New to charter
  • Meet the Charter team
  • Superyacht videos
  • 360° yacht tours
  • Corporate & event charters
  • Inspiring charter ideas
  • Charter FAQs
  • Every day different

largest wooden sailing yacht

Charter in the Med

Last availability for the summer 19 August - 6 September and from 25 September onwards

largest wooden sailing yacht

NORFOLK STAR

Charter in the West Med or Spain

Remaining availability until 29 August

  • Motor yachts for sale
  • Sailing yachts for sale
  • Yachts for sale over 200 feet
  • Yachts for sale from 150 to 200 feet
  • Yachts for sale under 150 feet
  • Tenders and chase boats for sale
  • Yachts under construction
  • Meet the Brokerage team
  • Berths for sale
  • Sold yachts
  • Yacht marketing
  • New Build Sales
  • Refit a yacht
  • Delivered yachts
  • Yacht designers
  • Meet the Technical Services team
  • Meet the Yacht Management team
  • Crew vacancies
  • Meet the Crew Services team
  • Procurement Services
  • Charter Management
  • Sales Management
  • Yacht Marketing
  • Meet the Insurance team
  • 360 degree yacht tours
  • Boat shows and events
  • Office vacancies
  • Talent pool
  • Office locations
  • Burgess in Asia
  • Burgess Blue Oceans
  • Strategic partners
  • Press centre
  • Company Operations
  • Crew Services
  • New Business
  • Technical Services
  • Yacht Management
  • Burgess Impact Report 2023

Filter your results

  • Yachts for charter
  • Yachts for sale

“Some sailing yachts stir such emotion in the hearts of men that they are talked about with great respect.

Creole is one of the fortunate few that have this charisma and has survived to continue to give pleasure.”

LOGO Yachting NEWS blu 800

  • News , SAILBOATS

The world’s biggest sailing yacht: 141 metres of wood

  • April 1, 2016

Its name is  Dream Symphony  and once its building will be concluded in 2017, with a 141 metres length and a 18 metres beam it will become the  world’s biggest sailing yacht ever built.

The never-ending duel between EOS and Maltese Falcon will thus come to an end. It’s been quite a battle, with the  Falcon claiming for leadership  by considering its waterline length of  256′ , 20′ more than the one of  EOS , while  EOS  has always declared itself the biggest sailing yacht thanks to the bowsprit, with a total length of  305′.

EOS sailing yacht

Dream Symphony will serve as a peacemaker , since when its building will be completed next year, it will be without any doubt the world’s biggest private sailing ship.

Designed by  Ken Freivokh and Dykstra Naval Architects Studio , those who signed Maltese Falcon blueprints, Symphany will have four masts for a total sailing area of 5.000 sq.m.

biggest sailing yacht

It will have two decks , with a clear division between the owner’s area and guests and crew areas. A swimming pool will be built at stern,  with a upholstery capable of sustaining the weight of a helicopter. The yacht is being built at  Dream Ship Victory shipyard, Turkey.

Dream-Symphony-Jig

To make the project even more interesting is the fact  Dream Symphony is being built mainly of wood , that is a real technological challenge since beyond a certain length traditional planking cannot be used because of the strain and stress the yacht is undergoing.  Builders made an assembly work with  laminates in order to create a solid and robust hull , completing the building with fiberglass as an external protective layer.

The wood used in the making is  iroko , a highly resistant wood that will absorbe the huge amount of work originating from the mast compression , stays and waves solicitation.

dream-2

Luxury onboard doesn’t only apply to materials and finishings but to spaces as well. There will be only 18 guests and 9 cabins onboard,  while the crew will be made up of 32 members.

Price? That’s a question you shouldn’t ask.

Technical file

LOA                 141 mt

Beam                18 mt

Max draugh     8 mt

Engines            2 X 6700 HP total

Materials         Wooden and epoxy hull – teak bridge – aluminum, epoxy and wooden superstructures

4 Responses

Hi, I am a Cabinet maker&Joiner, I am 67 years young I have been in the game since I was 15 years old, may be I can help with the timber ship, kind regards David.

This is an extremely significant engineering undertaking. I’ll be following the progress, companies and personnel who will be contributing their life’s work on this “for professionals only” vessel. Can’t wait to see the rest of the specifications and engineering systems. Let me know if you need any trans-Atlantic delivery crew. Hopefully we’ll see Dream Symphony in Bermuda. I’ve got the resume for joining the deck, engineering & bridge crew for some of your longer passages. Good luck! ~ Pete

One of my pet peeves is when they call vessels it instead of she it is highly disrespectful and very lubberly Good luck with the Turks I try to start my business down there 10 years ago and the young Turkish naval architect told me don’t believe a thing we say we lie about everything one day he would save it say to me he can supply 20 men at 8 Euros an hour the next day he would put it up to 12 I never knew where I was so I gave up

looks that this boat has not been built finally?

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

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

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Language switcher

Browse categories.

banner-nuova-jolly

You might be interested in

ICE-YACHTS-CANNES-ICE-66-rs

ICE YACHTS: at the Cannes Yachting Festival with two out-of-the-ordinary sailing yachts

ocean-alexander-28L

Ocean Alexander 28L, the latest addition to the Legend series

nuova-jolly-marine

Nuova Jolly in Genoa with 2 world premieres and 6 RIBs on display

ponza ticket

Ponza Boat Ticket: details and rates

largest wooden sailing yacht

© 2021 – THE INTERNATIONAL YACHTING MEDIA Designed by BLive Communication

ABOUT YACHTINGNEWS.COM

Yachting News is an interactive multimedia magazine dedicated to the world of boating.

The International Yachting Media is the worlds most widely read boating magazines network. Whit its portal It broadcast its original contents in five languages and in more than 200 countries developing 950,000 views a week. Our web portals are the main source of information for yacht and boat owners, the place where they can find anything about their boating passion.

THEINTERNATIONALYACHTINGMEDIA.COM  | SUPERYACHTS.NEWS | YACHT DIGEST

VIRTUAL BOAT SHOW |  TUTTTOBARCHE |  TOUSLESBATEAUX |  TODOSLOSBARCOS

BOATING NEWS FREE APP

largest wooden sailing yacht

To provide the best experiences, we and our partners use technologies like cookies to store and/or access device information. Consenting to these technologies will allow us and our partners to process personal data such as browsing behavior or unique IDs on this site and show (non-) personalized ads. Not consenting or withdrawing consent, may adversely affect certain features and functions.

Click below to consent to the above or make granular choices. Your choices will be applied to this site only. You can change your settings at any time, including withdrawing your consent, by using the toggles on the Cookie Policy, or by clicking on the manage consent button at the bottom of the screen.

Subscribe For Latest Updates

Sign up to receive the best of Yachting News, sea trials, boat review and world premieres .

The only ADVERTISING FREE newsletter

Yacht Bible | The Superyacht and Luxury Yacht Directory

The Best Yacht Concepts From Around The World

ritz carlton yacht

The Stunning Ritz Carlton EVRIMA Yacht

zipper boat

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

0L5A3460xGJH.jpg

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

Sailing Yacht A Blohm VOSS SV

Top 10 Biggest Sailing Yachts In The World

The top 10 largest sailing yachts in the world have a combined length of 944.5 meters.

These include the Sea Cloud, which is almost a century old, and the much anticipated Oceanco’s 127m Project Y721 set to launch in 2022.

Read on for our list of the world’s top 10 largest and biggest yachts.

1. Sailing Yacht A | 142.8m

Sailing Yacht A Blohm VOSS FV

Sailing Yacht A tops this list, measuring in at 142.8m. At 12,558GT, it is also the heaviest sailing yacht on our list, measuring 5 times more than the second-largest sailing yacht.

Sailing Yacht A, built by  Nobiskrug  in 2017, blends impressive sailing and motor yacht designs into a highly innovative vessel.

The boat features three 100m freestanding masts higher than London’s Big Ben, making her an eye-catching vessel. 

2. Sea Cloud | 109.5m

Sea Cloud has sailed the high seas since 1931. The 2532 GT vessel was built for Edward F Hutton and heiress Marjorie Merriweather Post by German shipbuilder Friedrich Krupp.

The 109.5m sailing yacht has interchanged ownership several times and was rebuilt in 1978 by new German owners. The vessel is available for charter to provide guests with a luxury sailing experience. 

3. Black Pearl | 106.7m

black pearl yacht

Black Pearl was designed to cross oceans with just the power of the sail. The vessel is 106m in length and is striking with her black sails, weighing in at 2,864 GT.

She was delivered in 2018 and built by  Oceanco . The vessel features an advanced solar system. She also has a high-tech DynaRig setup by Dykstra Naval Architects .

4. EOS | 92.92m

EOS was built for American media and movie mogul Barry Diller under a shroud of secrecy. The three-masted Bermuda rigged schooner was launched by  Lürssen  Yachts in Germany in 2006 and refitted at Dutch Royal Huisman Shipyard in 2011.

Since her launch, she has remained one of the most private vessels in the world. EOS weighs in at 1500 GT.

5. Athena | 90m

Athena was delivered in 2004 by Royal Huisman Shipyard. The 1103 GT vessel is unique, with its advanced engineering and spacious interior that is uniquely sized for a sailing yacht.

She features naval architecture by Dykstra Naval Architects and Pieter Beeldsnijder Design. The 90m Athena was built for US software developer Jim Clark.

6. Maltese Falcon | 88m

MALTESE FALCON Yacht

The Maltese Falcon is one of the most photographed yachts of all time. The 88m yacht has an advanced automated square-rigged DynaRig and three rotating carbon fiber masts.

The 15 square sails hold 25,800 feet of canvas, giving her unprecedented performance, speed, and maneuverability. The yacht was built by renowned sailing yacht builder  Perini Navi . 

7. Aquijo | 86m

 Aquijo is an 86m sailing yacht built by Vitters Shipyard and Oceanco and launched in 2016. She is the largest ketch-rigged sailing yacht in the world, with her main mast reaching 88.4m into the air.

She displaces 1538 GT. Her exterior design and naval architecture were designed by Tripp Design Naval Architects . 

8. Sea Eagle II | 81m

Sea Eagle II was delivered in 2020 from Royal Huisman. The impressive sailing yacht is the shipyard’s largest by volume, displacing 1150 GT.

The three-masted schooner has a carbon Panamax rigging by Rondal and was built in collaboration with designer Mark Whiteley and Dykstra Naval Architects. She is also the world’s largest aluminum sailing yacht.

9. M5 | 77.6m

M5 was launched as Mirabella V in 2004 and delivered to American yachtsman Joe Vittoria. M5 is still the largest sloop in the world to this day.

The impressive yacht was built by Vesper Thorneycroft in England and has undergone several refits. In 2013, she was refitted by Pendennis and extended by 3.2m. She was refitted again in 2019.

10. Badis I | 70m

Badis I was built by Perini Navi and delivered under the name Sybaris in 2016. Philipe Briand consulted with the famous shipbuilder on naval architecture.

PH Design contributed her wooden veneer interior, accommodating 12 guests. Badis I is one of the largest yachts Perini Navi has delivered from their Italian shipyard.

Do you have anything to add to this listing?

Love yachts join us., related posts.

pexels kimona 2280926

Bananas On Boat Trips Are Bad Luck – 6 Reasons Why

pexels szelei robert 1482193

Renaming A Boat – Is It Bad Luck?

superyacht marina

13 Awesome Superyacht Marina Destinations

superyacht marine engine

The Engines that Power Superyachts

VANITY FAIR: THE WORLD'S LARGEST WOODEN SAILING YACHT, CREOLE

Tuesday, 13th february 2018.

The world’s largest wooden sailing yacht, Creole, owned by the Gucci family, is being offered for charter for the first time. Built in 1927, she’s a whopper at 65.3 metres. And she has a chequered history: requisitioned as a mine hunter in the Second World War; refurbished by shipping magnate Stavros Niarchos, whose wife myseteriously died on board; sold to the Danish government to train naval recruits; and since restored by Maurizio Gucci, the last of the dynasty to run the brand, who was gunned down by a hitman hired by his ex-wife. No matter her past; under full sail, off the coast of Monaco, there is no finer way to move around the Mediterranean.

Vanity Fair The Worlds Largest Wooden Sailing Yacht Creole 1

View More >

Friday, 18th may 2018, cecil wright & partners appointed central agent for the charter of m/y cocoa bean, friday, 29th september 2017, american yacht buyers underpin strengthening order books, friday, 28th july 2017, what you need in the world of yachting, tuesday, 2nd may 2017, sail away this summer, thursday, 10th may 2018, feadship project 815 launched and named sherpa, wednesday, 19th july 2017, the brief sheet, contact the team.

July / August Issue No. 299  Preview Now

Boats for Sale Online

Boats For Sale Online

Do you have a boat for sale—or are you looking to buy one? On this page, you’ll find a varied collection of fine boats for sale, including sail, power, paddle, and oar-driven craft, all of which are built of wood.

Have a boat to sell? Place your ad

If you have a current ad which needs to be edited or cancelled contact the Classified Ads Manager, Autumn Charette, 207-359-7713 or [email protected] . If you are interested in placing a Boats for Sale print ad for the next issue of WoodenBoat Magazine - click here Magazine Print Classified .

Search Boats for Sale

To refine your search, add quote marks. If you search Concordia Yawl, you will get all the listings which include Concordia and Yawl. To refine, search “Concordia Yawl” and you’ll see just Concordia Yawl results.

140 Results

Handmade wooden canoe

Small Craft

Handmade wooden canoe.

Beautiful hand built wooden canoe. Design modeled on the Wabanaki Indian canoes of Maine. Great for single-handed use but large enough for two. 16 feet, 45 lbs. Built of pine with cherry accent in seats, paddles and the portage brace.

1929 Hacker Craft Runabout 18'

Power Boats

1929 hacker craft runabout 18'.

1967 Crosby Striper #86

1967 Crosby Striper #86

Short cabin version. Restored in 2020 new lower frames, knees, floors and cockpit. Refastened in bronze. Sleeps 2 with marine head and 5 gallon holding tank. Volvo penta Chevy 305 70 gallons fuel. Turn key and extensively used and loved. Excellent fishing boat.

Luders 24

Hunt Surfhunter 25

Whitehall 16 ft. Sailing & Rowing Boat

Whitehall 16 ft. Sailing & Rowing Boat

16 foot Whitehall rowing and sailing boat. Maine built 1985. Excellent condition, teakwood trim, dual rowing stations, daggerboard, rudder, mast, sail,. 350 lbs. Dry stored for the last four years. Includes 4 Shaw and Tenney oars, 2 straight and 2 spoonbill.

Homemade 14 foot wooden/fiberglass boat, 35 horse power motor.

Homemade 14 foot wooden/fiberglass boat, 35 horse power motor.

Boat built in 1958, molded wooden ribs, plywood, fiberglass cloth, front deck, split front seat. 1958 Evinrude big twin motor, electric start. Will pull two water skiers. Both boat and motor need some tender loving care. Trailer included but not road worthy.

 Martha's Tender ~ Optional Sailing Version

Martha's Tender ~ Optional Sailing Version

Sailing version of Martha's Tender, complete with sail and rigging. Sail is in perfect condition. Mahogany thwarts, transom bronze fastened. White oak breastwork and rails. Epoxy/Cloth used, gel coat and white paint. Mahogany rudder and centerboard included.

28' Herreshoff Rozinante "Petrel"

28' Herreshoff Rozinante "Petrel"

The Rozinante is a classic double-ended beauty. The sleek boat has a large cockpit that can comfortably accommodate six on a daysail. The simply designed cabin has a double berth, mahogany cabinets, and stowage space for battery, ground tackle and sails.

32’ 1945 Mt Desert Downeaster

32’ 1945 Mt Desert Downeaster

32’ 1945 Mt Desert Downeaster, 318 gas engine that runs, has been on the hard for 10yrs +/-, she needs some work, beautiful looking hull & unique housetop, original canvas. Located on Islesboro, ME.

25’ Folkboat “Puffin” KC2 – Built in Denmark in 1950

25’ Folkboat “Puffin” KC2 – Built in Denmark in 1950

Varnished larch planking on steam-bent white oak ribs. Varnished mahogany superstructure, cockpit and interior. Varnished mast and boom. Marine plywood decks with fiberglass and paint overtop. Cast iron keel.

1956 20ft 6inch pretty utility runabout

1956 20ft 6inch pretty utility runabout

Built by Whittaker Boat Building Marine Railway Noank CT. Won best restoration by owner at Mystic Seaport 2015 and in Salem MA.2015. Just repowered with new old stock Yanmar 4jhe diesel.

Trumpy Contract #386 "San Ban" 47'  Cutter Ketch.

Trumpy Contract #386 "San Ban" 47' Cutter Ketch.

Same owner last 35 years. Time for me to move on! 110 hour Turbo Yanmar. All sails, cushions, booms, sheets, blocks in dry storage. Vessel can go back in water or be trucked for approximately $12-15.00 per mile. If you are interested give me a call or text and we can talk. 386-760-8181

1991 Pulsifer Hampton

1991 Pulsifer Hampton

Well maintained Pulsifer Hampton with Yanmar 3GM for sale. Kept inside in the winter and includes trailer. $15,000.

Three station double ender rowboat

Three station double ender rowboat

17’ 6’ X 44” beam double ended yacht tender with three rowing stations for one or two rowers either direction. Built in the mid 80s by Ken’s Boatshop in Seaford, NY. Second owner asking $1,400. Needs paint and bright work. Located in Satellite Beach, Florida.

Beautiful Plywood Dinghy

Beautiful Plywood Dinghy

10' x 4' 9" arc bottom rowing dinghy. Stability of flat bottom with low wetted surface and efficiency of a round bottom boat. Awlgrip inside and out. Includes oars. Professionally built by Bristol Seacraft in 2008, last registered in RI in 2023. Whale gusher and drain plug.

Lowell’s Amesbury Skiff

Lowell’s Amesbury Skiff

Excellent condition custom 16’ Amesbury Skiff, 2003 by Lowell’s Boat Shop, Amesbury MA. Boat has an oak frame with lapstrake cedar planking, built in floatation, fiberglassed bottom and garboards.

1958 Fully restored Knarr Sailboat

1958 Fully restored Knarr Sailboat

3 of everything! Two year renovation includes “Sapele Ribbon Mahogany”veneer with epoxy. Custom built trailer with a 20 ft boom extension (deeper launches possible) $65,000.

1964 H-28 (modified, Far EastYachts)

1964 H-28 (modified, Far EastYachts)

After significant rebuild in '97-'98, daysailing and Master Mariners racing in San Francisco Bay. Vessel, and owners, relocated to Bristol, RI in 2010. Eight years sailing in Narragansett Bay. In storage since 2019. Looking for a new, devoted steward of this lovely, sea kindly vessel.

42 strip plank sloop

42 strip plank sloop never launched located Richmond BC

Are you a sailing enthusiast or a dedicated builder looking for a rewarding project? This is a unique opportunity to own a beautifully crafted 42-foot strio plank sloop with immense potential. Douglas Fir strip plank hull complete with teak decks, rudder and a steel keel.

List your boat

Do you have a wooden boat for sale? Reach our highly qualified audience today.

Place Your Ad

From the Community

Handmade wooden canoe

Beautiful hand built wooden canoe. Design modeled on the Wabanaki Indian canoes of Maine.

1929 Hacker Craft Runabout 18'

Jimmy Steele Peapod

Good Vintage Boat - Hull Number 66 - Completed In 1989.

Boats Plans and Kits

Bullet flyer

Switzer Bullet 136

From online exclusives, extended content.

Book cover

Antarktische Wildnis: Südgeorgien

Small boats.

The 2015 Small Reach Regatta

A ratcheting mechanism.

Restoring Rambler

MINI MOCHA

Advertisement

Supported by

A Waterspout Was Seen When a Luxury Yacht Sank. What Is It?

Witnesses reported seeing the tornado-like phenomenon hit the Bayesian, a sailing yacht that sank off the coast of Sicily on Monday.

  • Share full article

The Bayesian sailing yacht

By Eve Sampson

What caused the sinking on Monday of a sailing yacht carrying the British billionaire Mike Lynch and 21 other people off the coast of Sicily is still unknown. But some attention has focused on observations by witnesses, who described seeing a small tornado-like column known as a waterspout forming over the water during an abrupt and violent storm as the vessel sank.

Fifteen passengers on the 180-foot yacht, the Bayesian, escaped on a raft before being rescued by a neighboring cruise ship. The body of the ship’s cook was recovered on Monday and six people remain unaccounted for , including Mr. Lynch and his daughter Hannah, according to officials with Sicily’s civil protection agency.

Prosecutors in the nearby city of Termini Imerese have opened an inquiry into the cause of the sinking.

Here is what to know about waterspouts, a surprisingly common weather phenomenon that may have helped sink the luxury yacht.

What are waterspouts?

Waterspouts are columns of spinning air and moisture — similar to tornadoes over water, according to the National Weather Service .

While some form in fair weather, and are aptly called fair weather waterspouts, another more dangerous variety called tornadic waterspouts develops downward from a thunderstorm. These tornadic waterspouts can either form as regular tornadoes over land and move out to sea, or form in a storm already over a large body of water, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association .

Fair weather waterspouts are weak, often dissipate quickly and do not cause major damage, according to the agencies, but tornadic waterspouts are more often associated with high winds, dangerous and frequent lightning, and hail. The Italian authorities recorded strong winds and intense lightning activity at the time the yacht went down.

How common are waterspouts?

Experts say waterspouts may be more common than tornadoes, but because oceans are so vast, they are more difficult to track — and as difficult to predict.

“The Mediterranean is possibly one of the places where waterspouts are most likely around the world due to the warm ocean surface and a climate that is very susceptible to thunderstorms throughout the summer and autumn,” according to a statement by Peter Inness, a meteorologist at the University of Reading in the United Kingdom.

Mr. Inness pointed to a 2022 study by scientists from University of Barcelona , which found that waterspouts occurred more frequently over warmer sea surfaces. The North Atlantic ocean has been unusually hot for over a year, repeatedly reaching record highs for the time of year , according to data from the oceanic association.

The International Centre for Waterspout Research on Monday said on X , the platform formerly known as Twitter, that it had confirmed 18 waterspouts near Italy in recent days, and several fishermen in the area of the accident told Italian media that they had witnessed a waterspout near the yacht.

What may have happened?

Karsten Börner, the captain of the nearby boat that rescued the 15 passengers, said in an interview that he saw the Bayesian about 490 feet away before the wind and lightning picked up.

While it was difficult to see what happened amid the storm, “my theory was that she was capsized first and then went down over the stern,” he said.

Towering over 237 feet tall, the Bayesian mast was one of the tallest aluminum masts in the world and it also had a special keel that could be raised or lowered, according to its manufacturer, Perini Navi. A keel is the downward-extending centerline underneath a boat that can help stabilize the vessel.

“In this case, 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.

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

Elisabetta Povoledo contributed reporting.

Eve Sampson is a reporter covering international news and a member of the 2024-25 Times Fellowship class, a program for journalists early in their careers. More about Eve Sampson

Boat logo

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

The best classic superyachts available for charter

Want to sail back in time? For your next yacht charter holiday, step on board a classic charter yacht to experience life on board during the glamorous bygone ages. The definition of what makes a classic yacht is hard to pin down, but the term is generally used for superyachts delivered before 1975. Encompassing both motor and sailing yachts that have been constructed using traditional procedures and materials, these relics of the past offer colourful histories as well as a luxurious experience on board. Take a look at the best classic yachts available for charter now.

Christina O

She’s hosted Winston Churchill, the Kennedys, Marilyn Monroe, Frank Sinatra and Rudolf Nureyev during her time as a superyacht, and had a former life as a Canadian anti-submarine frigate. The classic 99.15 metre Christina O boasts a remarkable history.

Formerly owned by Greek tycoon Aristotle Onassis, the classic 99.15 metre Christina O was first delivered in 1943 before Onassis refurbished her in a $4 million refit under his ownership in the 1950s. Despite having undergone extensive refit periods, her opulence has been preserved, including her famous Ari’s cocktail bar and concert room.

On board you can expect plenty of wood panelling, antique furniture, pianos and pictures of famous guests sprinkled throughout the interiors. Accommodation on board is for up to 34 across 17 well-appointed cabins.

Primed for entertaining, there is a stage installed around the base of the funnel where Maria Callas has performed and a Minotaur mosaic dance floor, which drops down to reveal a swimming pool.

Christina O is listed for charter with Morley Yachts for €700,000 per week at high season

More about this yacht

Stats: 45.7 metres, Ramage & Ferguson, 1906, 10 guests, 9 crew

Kalizma has had many high-profile owners over her lifetime, but perhaps her most renowned owner is actor Richard Burton. At the peak of Hollywood’s cinematic Golden Age, Burton purchased Kalizma as a gift for his wife Elizabeth Taylor after she won an Oscar – and it was on board Kalizma that he would later present Taylor with her famous 69.42-carat diamond. Kalizma would go on to host guests of note including Clint Eastwood, Brad Pitt, Prince Rainier III of Monaco and Prince Phillip, Duke of Edinburgh before she was rather unceremoniously offered for auction in a state of disrepair in 2019. Under new ownership and having now completed an extensive refit that has refurbished her glamorous interior top to bottom, Kalizma is ready for a charter season in the stunning islands of the Maldives. With a range of al fresco spaces for soaking up the sunshine, as well as a toybox bursting with diving gear, Jet Skis, Seabobs and gear for snorkelling and waterskiing, Kalizma is well-equipped for an Indian Ocean charter with a touch of old-school charm.

Charter cost : Kalizma is managed by Morley Yachts with a weekly rate starting from $90,000.

Stats: 31.39 metres, Brooke Marine, 1939, 8 guests, 6 crew

Eros  was built in England in 1939 for the daughter and son-in-law of a British Lord. Soon after her launch the waters were mined by the Germans and she spent World War II stuck in port, during which time her owner died. After the war she became the private yacht of billionaire Greek shipping magnate Stavros Niarchos. Following a no-expense-spared restoration,  Eros  is a true classic in immaculate condition.

She still retains much of her original features like teak panelling in the dining saloon - a nod to her original art-deco interior - and can sleep up to eight guests in four double cabins. Those looking for the thrill of sailing can take the helm at her classic wooden wheel, while others can simply kick back on a sun lounger at the bow. As the sun sets, guests can dine on deck thanks to a large teak table with wraparound seating for up to 10.  Eros  also boasts a well-stocked toybox, carrying the likes of kayaks, deep-sea fishing gear, paddle boards and equipment for waterskiing and wakeboarding.

Charter cost :  Eros  is available to charter with Classic Charters , with a weekly rate starting from $42,000.

Stats: 50.29 metres, Camper & Nicholsons, 1937, 10 guests, 11 crew

After serving in World War II as part of the evacuation effort in Dunkirk, Malahne was owned by film producer Sam Spiegel, acting as the production headquarters for Lawrence of Arabia  and played host to the likes of Elizabeth Taylor, Frank Sinatra, Jack Nicholson and Grace Kelly. In 2015, she underwent a major restoration project at Pendennis . 

Her Guy Oliver designed interior echoes her charming 1930s roots, including some authentic writing desks installed in a number of the six cabins. Her main saloon offers numerous armchairs, a piano and a casual dining area in one corner. A more formal dining room for up to 10 boasts art deco features and a stunning wood floor. A second lounge/study acts as the perfect place to send a few last-minute emails or to enjoy a glass of your favourite whisky atop comfortable sofas.

On deck, guests can relax in the sunshine atop crisp white sunpads with optional shades of comfy blue loungers before tucking into an al fresco lunch in the sunshine.

Charter cost: Malahne is managed for charter by Edmiston and has a weekly rate starting from €165,000.

Yachts for charter

Stats: 71.1 metres, Krupp Germaniawerft, 1929, 12 guests, 18 crew

Launched in 1929, this classic saw service in the Second World War and was sold to a new owner in 2015 who set out on a mission to restore the yacht to her former glory. After a 16-month refit at Pendennis she hit the water once again, and was awarded the Neptune for best rebuilt yacht at the World Superyacht Awards 2019 . Highlights on board include a master suite complete with a private lounge and shaded dining terrace, a stepped pool on the sun deck and a spa complete with a Turkish Hammam and a a barber shop for that perfect shave. The classic superyacht also boasts no less than three cinemas and three fireplaces for the perfect cosy night on board.

Charter rate: Haida 1929 is managed for charter by Edmiston , with a weekly charter rate starting from €310,000.

Over The Rainbow

Stats: 35 metres, Dickie & Sons, 1930, 11 guests, 5 crew

Like most yachts her age, Over The Rainbow has played a significant role in history. During World War II the wooden motor yacht was conscripted as a coastal patroller by the name of HMS Coraxand after her service cruised the Mediterranean as a floating casino, entertaining locals from the Athens who were keen to bypass strict laws forbidding gambling in the Greek capital. From Winston Churchill to Madonna, Over The Rainbow has hosted her fair share of celebrities on board.

The superyacht was last refitted in 2017 and is now equipped with high-tech safety and navigation systems while maintaining her classic charm throughout.

Charter cost: Over The Rainbow is available for charter with TWW with a weekly charter rate starting from €56,000.

Stats: 54 metres, Uljanik Shipyard, 1952, 12 guests, 9 crew

Seagull II was originally constructed as a passenger ship that could carry as many as 700 guests as she cruised between Croatia and Montenegro. She was totally transformed when her current owner bought her in 2004 and refitted her into a luxury motor yacht that can accommodate up to 12 guests. Featuring a distinctive dark blue hull, Seagull II maintains a classic 20th century look with her interior decorated in a faithful Art Nouveau style. Highlights include a master suite apartment with two staterooms and a shared private salon, a deck Jacuzzi, a formal dining room for hosting meals in a glamorous setting and ample deck spaces for sunbathing and al fresco entertaining. She is also well-stocked with toys, from gym equipment and Jet Skis to paddle boards and kitesurfing gear. While at anchor, she can accommodate up to 80 guests for a special event.

Charter cost: Seagull II is available for charter with Ocean Indpendence with a weekly charter rate starting from €110,000.

Yachts for sale

Stats: 49.06 metres, Wienerwerft, 1926, 10 guests, 8 crew

Classic sailing yacht Trinakria offers all the glamour of a bygone era with the comfort of modern amenities. The gaff-rigged schooner was first delivered by Wienerwerft in 1926 as a sailing vessel for Bulgarian fisheries on the Black sea, avoiding involvement in World War II when her then-owner sent her to hide away in Morocco. In the 70s, she was bought by a captain based in Cannes and was used for filming and cruises along the French Riviera. In 2004 she was in a state of disrepair and began a decade long refit project completed in 2014. Today, her wood panelled interiors still embrace the opulence of roaring ‘20s design but with refreshed amenities and tech. Her panoramic main saloon and al fresco dining lounge offer atmospheric dining spaces for up to 10 guests, while her toybox is packed wakeboards, stand-up paddleboards and gear for fishing or snorkelling.

Charter cost: Trinakria is managed for charter by NEXT Yachting with a weekly charter rate starting from €65,000.

Stats: 65.3 metres, Camper & Nicholsons, 1927, 11 guests, 15 crew

Named as the world’s largest wooden sailing yacht , the 65.3 metre Creole is an iconic three-masted schooner in impeccable condition. Boasting a sail area of 1,040 square metres, Creole can hit top speeds of up to 16 knots when the winds are right, and her impressive performance at sea has seen her collect a number of awards at international regattas including the Grimaldi Trophy Les Voiles des Saint-Tropez. 

As well as serving her time as a mine-hunter during World War II, Creole boasts a slew of notable owners who have looked after her during her lifetime, from members of the Gucci fashion family to Stavros Niarchos of the Greek shipping dynasty. Timeless styling is evident throughout her interior, especially in the pastel-coloured saloon and dining room, and she also offers al fresco dining for enjoying warmer weather.

Charter cost: Creole is managed for charter by Burgess , POA.

Sponsored listings

IMAGES

  1. The world´s biggest sailing yacht: 141 metres of wood

    largest wooden sailing yacht

  2. World largest wooden sailing yacht Lamima on sail, Raja Ampat Indonesia

    largest wooden sailing yacht

  3. World largest wooden sailing yacht Lamima on sail, Raja Ampat Indonesia

    largest wooden sailing yacht

  4. World largest wooden sailing yacht Lamima on sail, Raja Ampat Indonesia

    largest wooden sailing yacht

  5. Creole

    largest wooden sailing yacht

  6. This Captain’s Luxury Toy Is a Masterpiece, the World’s Largest Wooden

    largest wooden sailing yacht

COMMENTS

  1. Creole: The classic yacht owned by the Gucci family

    Indeed, this 65.3 metre behemoth is the largest wooden sailing yacht in the world. Creole was launched as Vira by Camper & Nicholsons in 1927 for US carpet manufacturer Alexander Smith Cochran, who messed about a little too much with the design post-splash. He thought the masts looked too tall and had them cut (too much), adding more ballast to compensate for the newly stumpy masts.

  2. List of large sailing yachts

    3-mast staysail wooden schooner; originally Vira. Largest Wooden hulled sailing yacht. [1] Lamima: 65.20 m (214 ft) Italthai Industrial Group: Marcelo Penna: 2014: Auxiliary gaff wooden pinisi, hull built in Indonesia Adix: 64.85 m (213 ft) Astilleros de Mallorca: Arthur Holgate, Dykstra Naval Architects: 1984

  3. List of longest wooden ships

    The six-masted schooner Wyoming, the longest confirmed wooden ship in history. The side-wheel paddle steamer ferryboat Eureka, now a museum ship, is the longest wooden ship still afloat.. This is a list of the world's longest wooden ships.The vessels are sorted by ship length including bowsprit, if known.. Finding the world's longest wooden ship is not straightforward since there are several ...

  4. 9 Stunning Wooden Boats That Blend Classic Design With Modern Tech

    The 111-foot Geist, launched in 2021 by Spirit, is the largest single-masted wooden sailing yacht built in the UK since the 1930s, when the America's Cup yacht Shamrock V ruled the seas.

  5. Meet 'Dream Symphony,' the World's Largest Sailboat Under Construction

    At 462 feet, Dream Symphony will be the world's largest sailing vessel if ever completed. The wooden boat is sitting in a Turkish shipyard.

  6. Largest Sailing Yachts in the World (with Price & Owners)

    In this list of the largest sailing yachts in the world, you'll discover the top 20 remarkable ones, from the groundbreaking Sailing Yacht A at 469 feet to Jeff Bezos' massive Y721 (aka Koru) that spans 416 feet. ... The Mikhail S. Vorontsov is a 64.5-meter sailing yacht with a completely wooden hull, offering a classic and captivating charm.

  7. The curse of classic 63m sailing yacht Creole

    The curse of classic 63m sailing yacht Creole. In the words of veteran photographer Gilles Martin-Raget, Creole is "a boat outside all the norms of size, aesthetics and history". Certainly, at 63.03 metres, the three-masted schooner is rated the world's largest wooden sailing yacht and her beauty is unquestionable.

  8. Building the largest sailing yacht in the world

    Currently in build at Dream Ship Victory's yard in Bozburun, Turkey, is a sailing yacht project of quite staggering scale. DREAM SYMPHONY is a 141m (462.6ft) four-masted schooner-rigged sailing yacht. To put that in context, the largest sailing yacht under canvas today is the 106m (347.8ft) BLACK PEARL. DREAM SYMPHONY is over 30 percent longer ...

  9. S.Y. Creole

    "Some sailing yachts stir such emotion in the hearts of men that they are talked about with great respect. Creole is one of the fortunate few that have this charisma and has survived to continue to give pleasure."

  10. Wyoming (schooner)

    Wyoming was an American wooden six-masted schooner built and completed in 1909 by the firm of Percy & Small in Bath, Maine. [1] With a length of 450 ft (140 m) from jib-boom tip to spanker boom tip, Wyoming was the largest known wooden ship ever built. [4]Because of its extreme length and wood construction, Wyoming tended to flex in heavy seas, which would cause the long planks to twist and ...

  11. Aboard the World's Largest Wooden Sailing Ship!

    'Aboard the World's Largest Wooden Sailing Ship! | Götheborg Of Sweden'In the summer of 2022, the Götheborg - a replica of an 18th century Swedish East India...

  12. CREOLE Yacht

    CREOLE is currently the largest wooden sailing yacht in the world and she was named after a dessert invented by Maurice Pope's chef, her second owner. Name: CREOLE: ... She currently sails under the Malta flag and is the second largest yacht built by C&N. Her weekly rate goes from 224,000 to 266,000 EUR plus expenses and her cruising ...

  13. The world's biggest sailing yacht: 141 metres of wood

    mastermind. April 1, 2016. Its name is Dream Symphony and once its building will be concluded in 2017, with a 141 metres length and a 18 metres beam it will become the world's biggest sailing yacht ever built. The never-ending duel between EOS and Maltese Falcon will thus come to an end. It's been quite a battle, with the Falcon claiming ...

  14. Top 10 Largest Sailing Yachts In The World

    The top 10 largest sailing yachts in the world have a combined length of 944.5 meters. These include the Sea Cloud, which is almost a century old, and the much anticipated Oceanco's 127m Project Y721 set to launch in 2022. ... PH Design contributed her wooden veneer interior, accommodating 12 guests. Badis I is one of the largest yachts ...

  15. Top 10 largest sailing yachts in the world

    The list of the top ten largest sailing yachts in the world is not easily disrupted. In fact, it had remained unchanged since the launch of the 106.7-metre Oceanco Black Pearl in 2018, which swiped the top spot from Lürssen's 93-metre Eos.For four years, Black Pearl remained the largest yacht in the world until early in 2023 when Oceanco sent a new flagship down the slipway, the mighty 127 ...

  16. Media Monday: The Wreck of the Schooner "Wyoming" the Largest Wooden

    The Schooner Wyoming was one of the largest wooden sailing vessels ever constructed.Built in Bath, Maine in 1909 as a collier ship, she was designed as a state-of-the-art sail freighter. Using a donkey generator and automated systems and winches for raising and lowering sails, and a telephone system for onboard communication, she was 450 feet long, but crewed by just 14 men.

  17. Vanity Fair: the World'S Largest Wooden Sailing Yacht, Creole

    The world's largest wooden sailing yacht, Creole, owned by the Gucci family, is being offered for charter for the first time. Built in 1927, she's a whopper at 65.3 metres. And she has a chequered history: requisitioned as a mine hunter in the Second World War; refurbished by shipping magnate Stavros Niarchos, whose wife myseteriously died ...

  18. Sail Antique And Classic boats for sale

    Antique and Classic sailing vessels for sale on YachtWorld are available for a variety of prices from $7,185 on the more reasonably-priced side all the way up to $10,575,201 for the most expensive yachts. Find Sail Antique And Classic boats for sale in your area & across the world on YachtWorld. Offering the best selection of boats to choose from.

  19. Wood boats for sale

    Find Wood boats for sale in your area & across the world on YachtWorld. Offering the best selection of boats to choose from.

  20. List of large sailing vessels

    Star Flyer, a 112 m (367 ft) sail cruise ship launched in 1991, in the Pacific. This is a list of large sailing vessels, past and present, including sailing mega yachts, tall ships, sailing cruise ships, and large sailing military ships.It is sorted by overall length. The list, which is in the form of a table, covers vessels greater than about 200 feet (61 m) LOA, which includes overhangs and ...

  21. World's largest wooden superyacht receives $1M price drop

    13 July 2023 • Written by Gabrielle Lazaridis. A $1,000,000 price drop has been announced on an unnamed custom wooden motor yacht, also the largest wooden superyacht in the world, currently listed for sale with Bush & Noble. Built of teak with a GRP superstructure, the 50-metre yacht entered construction in 2020 with design and engineering ...

  22. Boat For Sale Search

    Same owner last 35 years. Time for me to move on! 110 hour Turbo Yanmar. All sails, cushions, booms, sheets, blocks in dry storage. Vessel can go back in water or be trucked for approximately $12-15.00 per mile. If you are interested give me a call or text and we can talk. 386-760-8181. Power Boats.

  23. A Waterspout Was Seen When a Luxury Yacht Sank. What Is It?

    What caused the sinking on Monday of a sailing yacht carrying the British billionaire Mike Lynch and 21 other people off the coast of Sicily is still unknown. But some attention has focused on ...

  24. The best classic yachts for charter

    Named as the world's largest wooden sailing yacht, the 65.3 metre Creole is an iconic three-masted schooner in impeccable condition. Boasting a sail area of 1,040 square metres, Creole can hit top speeds of up to 16 knots when the winds are right, and her impressive performance at sea has seen her collect a number of awards at international ...

  25. Bayesian yacht: What we know about the luxury boat sank by a ...

    What do we know about the boat? Built in 2008, the 56-meter (184-foot) yacht was manufactured by Italian company Perini Navi, Reuters reported.