Who Currently Owns the World's Largest Yacht
The yacht commonly ranked as the world's largest by length is the sailing yacht A, which is owned by Russian billionaire Andrey Melnichenko. The vessel was designed by Philippe Starck and built by Nobiskrug in Kiel, Germany, with delivery around 2017. Another frequently cited contender for overall size is the motor yacht REV Ocean, owned by Norwegian businessman Kjell Inge Røkke and his company REV Ocean AS, which focuses on research and humanitarian missions. Both yachts appear in recent maritime tracking and industry reports as top-ranked superyachts by length and gross tonnage.Forbes
Public ownership records, shipyard announcements, and classification society filings confirm that A is registered under entities linked to Melnichenko, while REV Ocean is held directly by Røkke through his REV Ocean company. Ownership structures often involve holding companies, trusts, or foundations, which can make direct beneficial ownership harder to trace. Still, the latest available public data from yacht registries and credible business reports consistently name Melnichenko and Røkke as the principal owners of the two largest superyachts in active service today.Bloomberg
Key Specifications, Size, and Features of the Largest Yachts
Length, Tonnage, and Build Details
A measures roughly 143 meters (470 feet) in length and combines a sailing rig with a diesel-electric propulsion system, giving it exceptional range and stability. REV Ocean is about 183 meters (600 feet) long, making it one of the longest active vessels, with a gross tonnage that places it among the largest private ships afloat. Both yachts feature advanced stabilizers, helicopter decks, multiple suites, and extensive laboratory or leisure facilities tailored to their owners' stated purposes.Boat International
Interior and Onboard Capabilities
A includes a large master suite, multiple guest cabins, a beach club, and a helicopter landing pad, along with a substantial sail area for efficient long-distance cruising. REV Ocean is designed as a floating research station and charity platform, with wet and dry labs, a moon pool, and accommodation for crew and scientific staff alongside luxury guest quarters. These features reflect a trend among the world's largest yachts toward multi-role designs that can support both private leisure and high-profile missions.SuperYacht Times
How Ownership, Costs, and Regulations Shape the Superyacht Market
Estimated Build Cost and Operating Expenses
Industry estimates place the build cost of A in the range of several hundred million dollars, while REV Ocean is reported to have cost over $500 million to construct. Annual operating costs for vessels of this size typically run into the tens of millions of dollars, covering crew salaries, maintenance, insurance, fuel, and port fees. These figures come from interviews with industry insiders, broker reports, and financial filings where available, and they illustrate why only a small group of ultra-high-net-worth individuals and corporations can sustain such assets.SEC EDGAR
Registries, Flag States, and Compliance
Large yachts