Yachts are a symbol of luxury and extravagance, and they come in varying sizes and designs. However, there is always a quest to build the biggest and most lavish yacht in the world. Over the years, several yachts have held the title of the longest yacht in the world, but which is currently holding the position? In this article, we take an in-depth look at the history and specifications of the longest yacht in the world.
The History of the Longest Yacht
The history of the longest yacht in the world can be traced back to the early 19th century. During this time, wealthy individuals would commission custom-built yachts that would showcase their wealth and success. The yachts were designed to be extravagant and luxurious, with no expense spared. As time went by, the yachts became bigger and more elaborate, and the race for the longest yacht began.
In 1901, the German Emperor Wilhelm II commissioned the Meteor, a 170-foot-long yacht that was the longest yacht in the world at the time. The yacht had a crew of 43 and could accommodate up to 20 guests. However, as technology improved, yachts began to get even longer.
In 2006, the longest yacht in the world was the Dubai, measuring 531 feet long. It was built for Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai, and took three years to complete. The yacht boasts several amenities, including a helipad, swimming pool, and a garage that can hold several smaller boats.
However, the Dubai lost its title in 2013 when the Azzam, measuring 590 feet long, was launched. The yacht was built by Lürssen Yachts and is owned by Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the United Arab Emirates. The Azzam is reportedly the fastest yacht in the world, capable of reaching speeds of up to 30 knots.
Specifications of the Longest Yacht
The Azzam holds the title for the longest yacht in the world, measuring 590 feet long and weighing over 13,000 tons. The yacht has a beam of 68 feet and a draft of 16 feet, making it one of the largest yachts ever built. It was designed by Italian designer Nauta Yachts, with interiors by French designer Christophe Leoni. The exterior design features sleek lines and a navy blue hull.
The Azzam has several luxurious amenities that make it a floating palace. The yacht has a total of eight decks, with a total interior volume of over 1,100 cubic meters. The interiors are decorated with marble and gold accents and feature a mix of contemporary and traditional designs.
One of the standout features of the Azzam is its speed. The yacht is powered by two gas turbines and two diesel engines, giving it a top speed of over 30 knots. The yacht also has zero-speed stabilizers, which keeps it steady even when anchored in rough seas. The Azzam can accommodate up to 36 guests in 18 luxurious cabins, with a crew of 60 to cater to their every need.
Conclusion
The quest for the longest yacht in the world has been ongoing for centuries, with each new yacht surpassing the previous one in terms of size and luxury. The Azzam currently holds the title for the longest yacht in the world, measuring 590 feet long and boasting several luxurious amenities. It is a testament to the extravagance and opulence that is associated with owning a yacht. As technology continues to improve, who knows what the future holds for the world’s longest yacht?
