Superyachts vs Mega Yachts

Superyachts and megayachts are both ultra-luxurious boats, but they differ in size and amenities. This guide examines the key differences between superyachts and megayachts to help you determine which type of luxury yacht is right for your needs.

You might also be interested in reading our other article: What is a Gigayacht?

What is a Superyacht?

A superyacht is generally defined as a professionally crewed luxury motor or sailing yacht from 79 feet (24 meters) to 230 feet (70 meters) in length. Superyachts offer high-end amenities like:

• Spacious cabins with en-suite bathrooms to accommodate 6-12 guests
• Jacuzzis, swim platforms, and water toys
• Fine dining prepared by private chefs
• Luxurious furnishings (leather, marble, precious woods)
• Full service staff, including captain, crew, and stewards

Superyachts may be available for private charter. Popular destinations include the Mediterranean in summer and the Caribbean in winter.

What is a Megayacht?

A mega yacht is a larger version of a superyacht, generally defined as a professionally crewed yacht over 230 feet (70 meters) in length. Megayachts offer even more extravagant features, like:

• Accommodations for over 12 guests
• Larger crews with higher service levels
• Multiple pools, gyms, spas, and helipads
• Expansive deck spaces and interior volumes
• Unique amenities like private cinemas or submarines

Megayachts may require special licenses to carry additional passengers. Top destinations are the same as superyachts.

Key Differences Between Superyachts and Megayachts

	Superyachts	Megayachts
Length	79 – 230 feet (24 – 70 meters)	Over 230 feet (70 meters+)
Guest Capacity	6-12 guests	12+ guests
Crew Size	~10-15 crew	Larger crew, ~15-30
Common Amenities	Jacuzzis, water toys, gyms	Helipads, cinemas, submarines, expansive deck space
Average Price Range	$5M-$50M+ USD	$100M+ USD

While superyachts focus more on guest pampering and water sports, megayachts emphasize sheer size and volume with unique amenities. Megayachts also have larger crews to maintain the additional systems and provide high service levels.

Pros and Cons of Superyachts vs Megayachts

Superyachts

Pros

• More affordable to purchase and operate
• Easier to maneuver and dock in ports
• Provide intimate luxury for smaller groups

Cons

• Less interior and deck space
• Fewer unique amenities
• Perceived as less exclusive

Megayachts

Pros

• Ultimate statement of wealth and prestige
• Space for large groups and events
• Custom amenities like helipads, spas, submarines

Cons

• Very expensive to build and run
• Not as easily maneuverable
• Require large crew to maintain

Examples of Popular Superyacht and Megayacht Models

Yacht	Length	Guests	Crew	Price (Est.)
Superyachts:
Oceanco Amara	220 feet	12	20	$35M
Benetti Crystal 140	456 feet	12	19	$30M
Heesen Home	164 feet	10	11	$24M

Megayachts:
Lürssen Azzam	590 feet	36	60	$600M
Blohm+Voss Eclipse	533 feet	24	70	$1.5B
Nobiskrug Sailing Yacht A	469 feet	20	54	$600M

As the examples show, megayachts like the Azzam and Eclipse dwarf even large superyachts like the Amara. They offer amenities and interior volumes on a different scale entirely.

Key Takeaways: Choosing Between a Superyacht and Megayacht

• Budget – Megayachts can cost over 9 figures, while superyachts start under $10M.
• Size Needs – Megayachts have vastly more interior and deck space.
• Guest Capacity – Megayachts accommodate events and large groups more easily.
• Maintenance – Megayachts require large crews to operate systems and provide services.
• Docking Access – Superyachts can access more ports and marinas than massive mega yachts.
• Prestige – Megayachts make the ultimate luxury statement, size matters here.
• Experience – Superyachts focus more on guest pampering and water sports.

FAQ

Summary

So in summary, superyachts offer intimate luxury perfect for smaller groups, while megayachts are the pinnacle of ocean-going extravagance and prestige. Evaluate your budget, size requirements, and preferences to decide between these two luxury yacht options.