RankRed

15 Most Expensive Yachts In The World | 2024 Edition

While there is no official definition of a yacht, it can be simply described as a large vessel (with cabins) intended for luxury or pleasure purposes. Any yacht over 40 meters in length is usually identified as a superyacht.

Modern superyachts are designed with the utmost focus on comfort and power. They are required to accommodate various luxurious amenities to cater to every need of the owner and guests. It includes anything from swimming pools, spas, and entertainment centers to water sports toys and helipads.

While some superyachts are exclusively used by their owners, many are offered to charter businesses through which these superyachts can be rented or chartered. The cost of leasing a superyacht could be anywhere between $80,000 to a staggering $4 million per week.

So what are the most expensive yachts in the world? Who owns them, and what extravagant amenities do they have? Let’s find out.

Table of Contents

12. Nord – $300 Million

Nord superyacht

Launched In : 2021

Builder : Lürssen Owner : Alexey Mordashov

Nord is a massive superyacht built by German shipbuilding company Lürssen in 2021. It was initially named OPUS. According to Forbes, the yacht is currently valued at $300 million.

The yacht’s construction was done under the supervision of Moran Yacht, a private yacht dealership based in Florida. Both its interior and exterior designs were carried out by an Italian naval design firm, Nuvolari & Lenard.

The superyacht is fitted with state-of-the-art zero-speed stabilizers that reduce roll while being anchored or not underway. It features amenities such as a swimming pool, spa, a tender garage, and two helicopter landing pads, one on the top deck and another on the bow.

Nord is owned by Russian billionaire Alexei Mordashov, the chairman and majority shareholder of the biggest steel and mining company in Russia – Severstal.

Specifications :

At 142 meters in length, Nord is one of the largest superyachts in the world. It has a volume of 10,154 gross tonnage or gt. It can accommodate a maximum of 36 guests at a time.

The vessel is powered by four MTU engines and has a cruising speed of 15 knots or 28 kph.

11. Pelorus – $300 Million

Pelorus superyacht

Launched In : 2003

Builder : Lürssen Current Owner : Samuel Tak Lee

Pelorus is the oldest superyacht on this list and has a rich history. Since its completion in 2003, the vessel has changed hands several times.

Pelorus was initially ordered by a Saudi businessman named Sheikh Abdul Mohsen in 1999. The construction started in the year 2000 and entered service two years later in 2003.

However, the yacht was sold to the Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich within a year of its launch. As a new owner, Roman Abramovich made several modifications to the superyacht, which included adding a second helicopter pad.

In 2011, Pelorus was bought by David Geffen for about $300 million. But he sold the yacht after a brief period to sultan Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan of UAE.

The superyacht changed ownership again in 2016. Its current owner is Samuel Tak Lee, a Hong Kong-based real estate billionaire.

At 115 meters in length, Pelorus is perhaps the smallest superyacht on this list, but it is still a gigantic vessel. For perspective, the total length of an entire football field is 110 meters. It has a volume of 5,317 gt.

Pelorus has a cruising speed of 14 knots or 26 kph and a reported maximum speed of 20 knots (37 kph).

10. Dubai – $400 Million

Dubai superyacht

Launched In : 2006

Builder : Blohm+Voss Owner : Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum

‘Dubai’ is a superyacht owned by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai and the vice president/prime minister of the United Arab Emirates. It is currently the tenth most expensive superyacht in the world.

Until 2009, it was the largest private superyacht in the world but was surpassed by Eclipse, Azzam, and Fulk Al Salamah.

The yacht is built by Blohm+Voss, a German shipbuilding company best known for producing the German battleship Bismark during World War II. Blohm+Voss was acquired by the Lürssen shipyard in 2016.

Dubai superyacht is designed by renowned yacht designer Andrew Winch along with interior designer firm Platinum Yachts.

The superyacht carries a helipad, two motorboats, water bikes, and a submersible. Amenities include a large dining room, swimming pool, a movie theater, and disco.

At a length of 162 meters, Dubai is currently the fourth largest private superyacht in the world. It has a tonnage of 13,470 gt. Dubai superyacht is powered by four MTU diesel engines, each delivering 8,479 hp. It has a maximum speed of 26 knots (48 km/h) and a range of 8,500 nmi (15,700 km).

The superyacht has a maximum capacity of 115 guests with 88 crew members.

9. Eclipse – $438 Million

Eclipse superyacht

Launched In : 2009

Builder : Blohm+Voss Owner : Roman Abramovich

Eclipse is a massive superyacht owned by Russian oligarch Roman Abramovich. He is currently the 13the richest individual in Russia and made his wealth through the steel industry and other investments.

After its launch in 2009, Eclipse became the world’s largest private yacht. However, it has been surpassed by Fulk Al Salamah and Azzam in recent years.

Eclipse was built by Blohm+Voss, three years after the Dubai superyacht, in 2009. Its estimated cost is around €340 million.

The superyacht accommodates about a dozen of luxurious cabins for guests, two helipads, an entertainment hall, and a mini-submarine that can submerge up to 50 meters below the surface.

While it is clear that Eclipse is no ordinary superyacht, what makes it truly stand out from the rest is its military-styled missile defense system that detects and fires missiles at possible threats.

The yacht also features an ‘anti-photo shield’ for enhanced privacy. When activated, the shield detects a CCD sensor (closed coupled device) and fires a shot of laser in its direction to destroy any photographs. However, the effectiveness of such technology remains debatable .

Eclipse has a length of 162.5 meters and a volume of 13,000 gt. Its beam is 22 meters, and the draft is 5.9 meters. The vessel is powered by four MTU diesel engines and has a maximum speed of 22 knots or 40.7 km per hour.

It requires about 70 crew members to serve all the guests. Eclipse was last seen at a small village port in Turkey.

8. Flying Fox – $455 Million

Flying Fox

Launched In : 2019

Builder : Lürssen Owner : Dmitry Kamenshchik

The Flying Fox is a luxury yacht built by Germany’s Lürssen shipyard in 2019. It is perhaps the world’s largest and most expensive yacht available for charter. A week-long vacation on this superyacht would cost you about $4 million.

This spectacular vessel is a result of collective design work from interior designer Mark Berryman and renowned superyacht architect Espen Oeino . Apart from the Flying Fox, Mr. Oeino is known for his work on other superyachts such as Silver Fast and Octopus (owned by Microsoft’s co-founder Paul Allen).

Like most modern superyachts, the Flying Fox is primarily centered around wellness and watersports themes. Its exceptional tender garage carries nearly every water sports equipment from hoverboards and seabobs to windsurfs and flying boards. Moreover, it also carries a personal submarine that can be launched using a crane.

Often regarded as a ‘floating resort,’ the superyacht has guest suits, a two-level saloon space, a specialized gym, multiple fireplaces, and lots of greenery.

But perhaps its most eye-catching feature is the 12-meter deck pool with adjustable height floor, massage jets at one side, and swim jets at the other. Moreover, the yacht also carries a cryosauna which can help you emulate the post-workout endorphins rush.

Due to the sheer size and splendor of the Flying Fox, it was speculated that the yacht was owned by Jeff Bezos (the world’s richest person in 2019).

However, in 2022, it was revealed that the actual owner of the yacht is a Russian oligarch named Dmitry Kamenshchik.

The Flying Fox measures 136 meters in length and 9,022 gt in internal volume. It has a beam of 22.5 meters and a draft of 5.1 meters. It is currently the 22nd largest yacht in the world by length.

The superyacht requires a crew of 55 (including four chefs) to serve a maximum of 25 guests at a time.

While the Flying Fox is privately owned, it’s managed mostly by superyacht brokerage house Imperial Yachts.

7. Solaris – $474 Million

Solaris

Builder : Lloyd Werft Owner : Roman Abramovich

Solaris is a giant superyacht owned by Roman Abramovich. It is perhaps the most expensive yacht in his possession. At a length of 138 meters, Solaris is smaller but a more expensive and luxurious yacht than Eclipse.

The superyacht features amenities including a Jacuzzi, sauna, a gym, entertainment center, an office, and custom-built lounge areas. It also carries several high-speed jet skis and even a submersible for adventurous guests who want to explore the ocean.

Apart from the luxuries, Solaris has some of the most impressive and up-to-date security features to prevent any crisis situation. It is fitted with bulletproof windows, armored cabins, and a radar-controlled missile detection system. The yacht also has the ice-breaking capability.

Solaris was built by Lloyd Werft, a German shipyard that went bankrupt in 2022.

The overall internal volume of Solaris is about 11,000 gt. It has a total of eight decks with a capacity of 36 guests and 60 crew members onboard.

Solaris is powered by two high-tech marine propulsion units called Azipod, which consists of an electric motor driving a fixed pitch propeller. It is mounted on a steerable pod that allows the vessel to be more maneuverable.

6. A+ (formerly Topaz) – $527 Million

A+ (Topaz) yacht

Launched In : 2012

Builder : Lürssen Owner : Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan

The next in the line of most expensive superyachts is called A+. It was built by Germany’s Lürssen yachts for about $527 million. The yacht was initially named ‘Topaz.’

A+ is currently owned by Mansour bin Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the deputy Prime minister of UAE.

The exterior of the ship was designed by renowned yacht designer Tim Heywood. For interior design and decorations, Lürssen hired Terence Disdale, a U.K-based specialist design firm that has worked on several superyachts, including Pelorus, Tatoosh, and Ecstasea.

The superyacht has eight decks, three swimming pools, two helicopter landing pads, a jacuzzi, and a theater, among other amenities.

In 2020, A+ was embroiled in a global scandal after reports surfaced that it was partially financed by embezzled funds from Malaysia’s 1MDB sovereign wealth fund.

At 147 meters, A+ is currently the world’s tenth largest yacht by length. It measures 11,589 gt in volume. The main structure of the vessel is made of aluminum.

A+ is powered by two French-made Pielstick diesel engines, each producing 7990 hp. The yacht has a cruising speed of 22.9 knots, while it can reach a maximum speed of more than 25 knots.

5. Serene -$550 Million

Serene superyacht

Launched In : 2011

Builder : Fincantieri Owner : Mohammed bin Salman

Serene is currently the fifth most expensive yacht in the world. It was built by Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri initially for Russian billionaire Yuri Shefler, who made his wealth through his alcoholic beverage empire.

Serene’s interior design and decoration were carried out by Reymond Langton Design, an independent design studio specializing in luxury yachts. The estimated manufacturing cost of the yacht is around $330 million.

After its completion in 2011, Serene was among the ten largest private yachts in the world. However, it is currently ranked 21st. It has a bunch of ultra-luxurious amenities, including a large seawater pool, spa, a nightclub, a full-scale library, and a helipad. There is also an underwater viewing room.

Yuri Shefler sold the superyacht to Saudi crown prince Mohammed bin Salman for about $550 million in 2014. A few months before this transaction, Serene was rented by Bill Gates for a fee of $5 million a week .

In 2019, a report stated that Salvator Mundi, the world’s most expensive painting , was stored inside the yacht. However, it was never confirmed.

Salvator Mundi is one of the most iconic paintings made by Leonardo da Vinci. It was sold for a whopping $450 million ($497 million adjusted value) at Christie’s auction house in November 2017.

Specifications and features:

The superyacht has a moderately large internal volume of 8,230 gt and a total length of 134 meters . Instead of a single large propeller, it is fitted with two controllable pitch propellers. Serene has a total of seven decks with 12 guest cabins and 30 crew cabins.

4. Sailing Yacht A – $578 Million

Sailing yacht A

Launched In : 2015

Builder : Nobiskrug (Former) Owner : Andrey Melnichenko

A sailing yacht differs from a typical motor yacht as it uses sails as a primary method for propulsion. A or sailing yacht A is actually a sail-assisted motor yacht with a hybrid powerplant and three mast sailing rig. It is the largest sailing yacht in the world.

Sailing Yacht A is designed by renowned French industrial architect Philippe Starck, who has worked for brands such as Adidas, Hilton International, and a bunch of private entities. The yacht is owned by Andrey Melnichenko.

With a gross tonnage of 12,558 gt and a length of 142.81 meters, the sailing yacht A is perhaps the largest yacht of its type. The beam and draft lengths are 24.8 meters and 8 meters, respectively.

The vessel features an underwater observation pod with 30 cm thick glass. The cruising speed of sailing yacht A is 16 knots (39 km/h) and has a range of 9,890 km.

3. Dilbar – $588 Million

Dilbar yacht

Builder : Lürssen (Former) Owner : Alisher Usmanov

With a price tag of nearly $590 million, Dilbar is currently the third-most expensive yacht in the world. It was built by Lürssen Yachts for Russian billionaire Alisher Usmanov. The yacht is named after his mother.

Usmanov is one of the richest Russian oligarchs, who made his wealth through steel, telecom, and investments after the fall of the Soviet Union.

Dilbar is not just your regular large yacht. It is currently the third-largest (by gross tonnage) and sixth longest motor yacht in the world ( the third-longest built by Lürssen). Apart from other luxuries, the superyacht has two helipads and a huge indoor pool.

According to the U.S Department of Treasury, Dilbar’s estimated worth is between $600 million and $735 million . The annual maintenance cost for this gigantic ship is about $60 million.

Dilbar superyacht was among the many private assets owned by Russian billionaires that were seized by foreign governments in 2022. The yacht was impounded by the German authorities at Hamburg port in April 2022.

At 15,917 gt, Dilbar is the second largest private yacht in the world by gross tonnage after Fulk Al Salamah , owned by the Omani Royal Family.

The length of the superyacht is 156 m. For perspective, the total length of a football field is 110 m or 360 ft. It has a beam of 24 m and a draft of 6.1 m.

Dilbar has a cruising speed of 18 knots (33 km/h) and a maximum speed of 22.5 knots (41.7 km/h).

2. Azzam – $605 Million

Azzam superyacht

Launched In : 2013

Builder : Lürssen Yachts Owner : Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of UAE (Until his death in May 2022)

Azzam (Arabic word for ‘Resolute’) is a luxury superyacht built by German yacht maker Lürssen. The construction of the yacht was personally ordered by Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the former president of the United Arab Emirates.

The superyacht is a remarkable piece of engineering in more than one way. It took Lürssen about three years to complete Azzam’s construction after an entire year of design work. The vessel has a shallow draft of 4.3 meters. It is currently the longest motor yacht in service.

The total manufacturing cost of Azzam is estimated to be around $600 million making it the second-most expensive private yacht in the world.

After the death of Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan in May 2022, it was reported that Azzam was listed for charter.

Azzam’s recorded length is 179.9 m, which is about 17 m more than Eclipse’s. It is powered by two diesel engines and two gas turbines, each producing 23,500 hp.

1. History Supreme – $4.8 Billion

History Supreme

Launched In : 2011 Designer : Stuart Hughes

At $4.8 billion , History Supreme is the most expensive superyacht ever made. Like any other superyacht, History Supreme has private cabins, a swimming pool, and other luxury amenities. At 30 meters, it is also significantly smaller than other superyachts on this list. However, it is way more expensive.

The reason behind History Supreme’s sky-high value is the amount of gold and other precious metals that are used on its body. The yacht has over 100,000 kilograms of gold and platinum from top to bottom.

While the deck, a large dining area, and railings are coated with gold, the main cabin is covered with platinum. It is also reported that a real dinosaur bone from T-rex is placed on a cabin wall.

Moreover, the entire base of the vessel is wrapped in a thin layer of gold.

History Supreme is designed by Stuart Hughes, a British luxury goods designer widely known for his extravagant use of gold and diamond on electronic gadgets, luxury cars, and other luxury items.

According to reports, the superyacht is owned by Malaysian businessman and billionaire Robert Kuok.

Other Expensive Yachts Valued Below $300 Million

13. al mirqab – $250 to $300 million.

Al Mirqab

Launched In : 2008 Owner : Hamad bin Jassim bin Jaber Al Thani

Al Mirqab, initially known as ‘Project May,’ is a superyacht owned by Qatari politician Hamad bin Jassim bin Jaber Al Thani. It is currently valued between $250 and $300 million.

The vessel is constructed by a small German shipyard Peters Werft and is designed by a pair of renowned yacht designers – Andrew Winch and Tim Heywood.

Al Mirqab has two VIP or owner suits and 10 additional suits for guests. It can serve up to 24 guests at a time. The amenities include a jacuzzi, a swimming pool, and a helipad.

  • Length: 133 meters
  • Volume: 9,518 gt
  • Cruising Speed : 21 knots (38.8 km/h)

14. Ocean Victory – $295 Million

Ocean Victory

Launched In : 2014 Owner : Victor Rashnikov

At the time of its launch in 2014, Ocean Victory was one of the ten largest superyachts in the world. It is built by Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri and designed by naval architect and designer Espen Oeino.

Ocean Victory superyacht has seven decks, a large tender garage, multiple pools, and a helipad. It can accommodate a maximum of 36 guests at a time.

According to Forbes, the yacht is currently owned by Russian billionaire Victor Rashnikov and is valued at $295 million.

  • Length: 140 meters
  • Volume: 8,506 gt
  • Cruising Speed : 18 knots (33.4 km/h)

15. Octopus – $240 Million

Octopus superyacht

Launched In : 2003 Owner : Paul Allen (Until his death in 2018)

Octopus superyacht was built by Lürssen yachts for Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen in 2003. It was the largest yacht at the time of its launch. Unlike most private superyachts, Octopus has been mostly loaned out for scientific research and exploration purposes.

The superyacht has a total of eight decks with 13 guest suites and a private owner’s deck. Amenities include a gym, a spa, an entertainment center, and a basketball court. Moreover, it has not one but two helipads.

‘Octopus’ was designed by Espen Oeino and Seatle-based interior designer Jonathan Quinn Barnett. During its construction, Paul Allen asked the designers to build a vessel capable of conducting long expeditions and even rescue operations on top of having leisure amenities onboard.

It is equipped with two mini-submarines and a remotely operated underwater vehicle or ROV for underwater research and rescue operations.

In December 2018, the yacht underwent an overhaul at Blohm+Voss shipyard for over seven months. In 2021, the yacht was reported to be bought by an anonymous buyer for £200 million .

  • Length : 126 meters
  • Volume : 9,932 gt
  • Maximum Speed : 19 knots (35 km/h)

Read:  16 Most Expensive Liquids On Earth

More To Know

How long it takes to build a superyacht.

The construction of a superyacht is usually done in four phases – planning or design, engineering, superstructure construction, and outfitting.

It takes about three to four years to build an entire custom superyacht. While it takes less time to construct a vessel on a pre-developed platform with standard elements, building a customized superyacht that caters to all your requirements takes more time. You also have to take unexpected delays into consideration.

The design or planning is the most critical phase in a superyacht construction. Considering the budget and specific requirements, the entire process could take between nine months and a year.

The Current International Market for Luxury Superyachts

The yacht industry is on the rise, and the demand for luxury superyachts has exploded in the last few years during soaring stock markets and crypto gains. Most of the demand is from the United States.

The global yacht industry is valued at $64 billion in 2020 and is expected to reach $84.7 Billion by 2027 growing at a CAGR of 4.1 percent.

According to Boat International’s Global Order Book, about 1,024 superyachts are under construction or on order globally in 2022. It is about a 25 percent increase from the last year’s 821 vessels.

A large chunk of these under-construction superyachts is semi-custom options that are relatively smaller in size than most superyachts on this list. Moreover, about 33 percent of these orders are some sort of expedition superyachts that can sail through ice and other remote regions of the world.

14 Most Expensive Watch Brands In The World

15 Most Expensive Classic Cars Ever Sold At Auction

' src=

I am a content writer and researcher with over seven years of experience covering all gaming and anime topics. I also have a keen interest in the retail sector and often write about the business models/strategies of popular brands.

I started content writing after completing my graduation. After writing tech-related things and other long-form content for 2-3 years, I found my calling with games and anime. Now, I get to find new games and write features and previews.

When not writing for RankRed, I usually prefer reading investing books or immersing myself in Europa Universalis 4. But I am currently interested in some new JRPGs as well.

Related articles

expensive motorboats

A Bizarre Airplane Design That Seats Passengers In Its Wings

Microscope visualize magnetism

New Microscope Makes It Possible To Visualize Magnetism

Leave a reply cancel reply.

On my website you can buy and sell luxury real estate, and in the future a yacht.

11 Best Luxury Boat Brands

expensive motorboats

Table of Contents

Last Updated on May 16, 2023 by Boatsetter Team

The words “best” and “luxury” leave a lot up to interpretation. “Best” depends on the user’s specific needs and “luxury” is usually found on larger yachts although some boats under 60 feet can be luxurious too. For our purposes, let’s focus on premier brands. Some are semi-custom or production models below 100 feet while others above that length are considered to be superyachts and one-off designs. We’ve compiled 11 of the best luxury boat brands for you to consider when buying (or renting with us): 

  • Wally 
  • Zeelander 
  • Sanlorenzo 
  • Ferretti 
  • Sunseeker 
  • Bennetti 
  • Nordhavn 
  • Oceano 
  • Lurssen 
  • TechnoRib 

Don’t leave without catching our Pro Top at the very end. 

Experience yachting— Find luxury boats for rent through Boatsetter

wally boats

Unquestionably avant garde, Wally builds sail and motor yachts with head -turning styling and groundbreaking functionality. Their plumb bows and sleek profiles get noticed in ports around the world and they just launched the Wally Wind 110 carbon fiber speedster. 

Learn more about Wally Yachts . 

2. Zeelander

zeelander boats

A combination of retro aesthetics and cutting-edge technology, Zeelander from the Netherlands started just 15 years ago but has had a meteoric rise with their bold designs. Each boat takes around 20,000 man-hours to create and it shows in the details.

Learn more about Zeelander . 

3. Sanlorenzo Yachts 

Sanlorenzo yachts

With motor yachts (70-110 feet) and superyachts (120+ feet), Italy’s Sanlorenzo is renowned for excellent craftsmanship, roomy proportions, beautiful interiors, and superior quality. This yacht company has been helping boater create their own yachts since 1958.  wally

Learn more about Sanlorenzo Yachts . 

4. Ferretti

Ferretti yachts

For over 50 years, Ferretti Yachts has been building premier models in Italy. Today, they have flybridge designs from 50 to 100 feet, all of which are exquisite in detail and finish. 

Learn more about Ferretti .  

riva yachts

Part of the Ferretti Yachts group, Riva models (27 to 115 feet) have a heritage that goes back to the 1800s. They’re known for comfort and timeless elegance, unquestionable reliability, and elite Italian styling.  

Learn more about Riva . 

6. Sunseeker

expensive motorboats

British motor yacht builder, Sunseeker, is known for thier variety of yachts from large cruisers to sporty models including the Predator 80, Manhattan 52 and Sunseeker 155. Hailed for performance, Sunseeker also creates unrivaled luxury accommodations, so owners travel in style and arrive before everyone else. 

Learn more about Sunseeker . 

7. Bennetti 

Bennetti  yachts

Benetti has been building yachts for 150 years and has the production capacity to build 100 syperyachts per year. Attention to detail and a focus on advanced technology differentiate Benneti yachts and make models like the Delfino 93 highly sought after. 

Learn more about Bennetti . 

8. Nordhavn

Nordhavn

On the more rugged expedition yacht side of yachting, there’s Nordhavn with its shippy-looking trawlers that can go the distance. To date, the largest ocean-going Nordhavn delivered has been 120 feet LOA.  

Learn more about Nordhavn . 

Oceanco yachts

A fully custom builder, Oceanco Yachts in the Netherlands has been operating for three decades and delivers displacement sail and motor vessels that are one-of-a-kind and reach up to nearly 500 feet LOA.

Learn more about Oceano . 

10. Lurssen 

Lurssen yachts

Image Source: https://camperandnicholsons.com/builders/lurssen

When the one percent seek a unique yacht, many turn to Lurrsen, the German manufacturer that started by building racing row boats in the 1800s. The company still carries the family name and builds the kind of yachts that carry multiple swimming pools as well as two helipads. 

Learn more about Lurssen . 

11. TecnoRib

tecnorib

On the other end of the spectrum from custom superyacht builders is Italian TecnoRib with their rigid inflatable jet tenders and walkaround designs. Don’t be fooled by their size, the largest Pirelli model walkaround has a luxurious cabin and is 50 feet long.   

Learn more about TechnoRib . 

A little word on luxury

Luxury doesn’t necessarily have to mean “large boat.” Sometimes it just means your wants are being met all way through. Whether it’s a cozy interior or selecting a few amenities from our Add-ons list , there’s a bit of luxury for everyone with Boatsetter. 

Pro Tip: If your slip isn’t big enough for a superyacht but you still want the swankiest and most upmarket design, consider a Zeelander or TecnoRib in the 40-foot range. Either way, you won’t be disappointed. 

About us 

Boatsetter is a unique boat-sharing platform that gives everyone — whether you own a boat or you’re just renting — the chance to experience life on the water. You can list a boat , book a boat , or make money as a captain .  

Put your yacht to better use— List it on Boatsetter and make money

Zuzana-Prochazka

Zuzana Prochazka is an award-winning freelance journalist and photographer with regular contributions to more than a dozen sailing and powerboating magazines and online publications including Southern Boating, SEA, Latitudes & Attitudes and SAIL. She is SAIL magazines Charter Editor and the Executive Director of Boating Writers International. Zuzana serves as judge for SAIL’s Best Boats awards and for Europe’s Best of Boats in Berlin. 

A USCG 100 Ton Master, Zuzana founded and manages a flotilla charter organization called Zescapes that takes guests adventure sailing at destinations worldwide. 

Zuzana has lived in Europe, Africa and the United States and has traveled extensively in South America, the islands of the South Pacific and Mexico. 

Browse by experience

expensive motorboats

Explore articles

Captains for Clean Water

Captains for Clean Water: Protecting Aquatic Ecosystems | #MindYourWake Series

Rec Boat Holdings

Boatsetter, Rec Boat Holdings Form Strategic Partnership

What Is a Sandbar Party?

What Is a Sandbar Party? 7 Things to Expect

boating checklist

Pre-Departure Boating Checklist: 20 Things to Do Before Leaving the Dock

The Sterndrive Class is great for embarking on a full array of day boat activities. From the 20’ foot runabout for inland lakes to the roomy 36’ luxury cruiser that handles big water, you’ll find a great choice among our Sterndrive Class for doing it all on the water.

expensive motorboats

  • Day Cruising
  • Wakeboarding
  • At Anchor In-Water Activity
  • Large Bodies of Water
  • Small Bodies of Water
  • Overnight Aboard

For those who want all the versatility of a sterndrive with enhanced surf boat capabilities, the Surf Class is the perfect choice. In three easy steps, you’ll have the ideal wave for your family’s surfing success. And all of this with no trade-offs in your cruising enjoyment.

expensive motorboats

The Outboard Class offers powerful cruising with a modern quiet ride. Great in saltwater, these outboard boats are engineered for efficiency, ease of maintenance, and year-round readiness with a variety of power options.

The Coastal Edition is designed with a comprehensive set of features specifically tailored for saltwater protection and durability. Boaters can navigate with confidence, knowing that the boat is equipped to handle the elements effectively.

Our Coastal Edition features the highest quality stainless steel components, watertight electrical connectors, innovative water management system, GPS mapping with coastal maps, carpet-free floor storage, redundant bilge pump system, and self-bailing cockpit (R6 models and above).

Outboard Class

expensive motorboats

  • Explore All
  • Owner Experiences
  • Cobalt  Innovations

Coastal Edition

  • Monsoon Engines
  • News & Events
  • Our Company

expensive motorboats

  • Design Your Dream
  • Find a Dealer
  • Full Line Brochure Request

expensive motorboats

Cobalt Boats

Monsoon is here.

Cobalt Boats with Cobalt Engines backed by a Cobalt Warranty.

R33 Outboard

Performs as beautifully as it looks.

This level of quality and performance is luxury.

Elevate your saltwater boating journey.

expensive motorboats

Elevate Your Saltwater Boating with Cobalt’s Coastal Edition

Learn more..., experience extraordinary, sterndrive class, upcoming cobalt events.

expensive motorboats

2024 Jersey Shore Boat Sale and Expo

Shoretown Ballpark 2 Stadium Way, Lakewood, NJ

expensive motorboats

Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show

Broward County Convention Center 1950 Eisenhower Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316, USA

expensive motorboats

Seattle Boat Show

Lumen Field Event Center 800 Occidental Ave. S. Seattle, WA 98134

WE MAKE YOUR DREAM BOAT. BUT YOU MAKE IT YOUR OWN.

What cobalt owners say.

The luxury and lifestyle a Cobalt boat provides isn’t just a promise—it’s a reality. Read real owner reviews, in their own words.

Couldn’t be happier with our R6 surf amazing boat and has been a great investment.

The cobalt quality is excellent! Cobalt design makes it so easy for first time buyers. The ride and handling are fantastic! We love our cobalt!

The best non-custom-built boat you can buy. Don’t sacrifice on quality or the customer service by going somewhere else.

Our 2021 CS23 is the perfect boat for our family. It does it all from just getting around the lake to wakeboarding to swimming hole fun. Her lines are a fantastic blend of modern and classic, and turns heads everywhere we go!

This is my 3rd Cobalt and all have been fantastic. But the R6 is by far the best as the electronics are great and the performance surprised me as to how well it responds.

Our R6 is our second Cobalt. Top quality. The “Mercedes” of “boatdom!

We love our A29! Interior features that no other boat in its class have…small cuddy with heat and air, interior RGB lighting, etc… Exterior styling gets compliments everywhere we go.

Cobalt to me has always been the elite craft. My recent purchase of R8 has only reinforced belief. Please keep up the good work. You do not disappoint.

I read and heard about the workmanship and quality parts that go into each boat, and the design really was a buying factor. So happy with the purchase and everywhere I go I get positive comments. The dealer I felt with was so professional and caring to me as a customer.

Love the multi-use capability for pleasure cruising on Lake Tahoe and wake surfing. Surf model has a definite feeling of a high-end luxury boat. Volvo Penta engine is flawless and digital screens at the helm are wonderful!

Local dealer reputation and quality, timely service made the decision easy. Was 1st boat purchase and they have taken wonderful care of me since purchase.

I have owned several boats. This Cobalt Surf Boat exceeded my expections and is the best boat that I have ever owned!

I purchased a Cobalt 25SC in May. This was the first boat that I have ever owned and I couldn’t have made a better choice! The quality and ride are excellent.

Love our 2023 R6. Handles like a dream. Love the auto trim we did not have on our R3. Looks great and has all the comfort features we wanted. Solid in smooth and rougher water.Great product. Proud to be a Cobalt owner.

Very happy with the purchase of my Cobalt CS23. No regrets. It is the size and power I wanted, and runs very solid. In many cases you get what you pay for, Cobalt is the perfect example of this. Pricey boat, but worth every penny.

The Cobalt Life

Explore cobalt.

On or off the water, there's more to explore with Cobalt

News & Events

Read the latest from Cobalt

Owner Experiences

Read stories from real Cobalt owners

  • Motor Yacht
  • Motor Yachts

The Best Motor Yachts by Length  in 2024

monaco-yacht-show

The motor yachts assembled here are ordered by length (LOA) and include a range from super cabin cruisers to superyachts.

expensive motorboats

This is a guide to the 15 most impressive motor yachts in different sizes and categories.

This review of motor yachts is a celebration of design in both form and function. Brands, model and size of motor yacht. These water vessels give individuals unlimited freedom and access to all the oceans, and lakes of the earth.

Motor yachts today are both rugged and highly sophisticated. They are large watercraft with impressive levels of functionality that provide safety, comfort, and privacy. They are the ideal haven to chill and unwind, especially if you love being on the water like we do.

We’ve been going to boat shows and hitching rides when possible to make this list.

Here are 15 of the best motor yacht brands to make it easy.

They are shown in order of size, increasing to the super yachts that require a large crew to run.

We have removed some models owned by associates of the Russian regime. The Lurssen Nord is just one example.

Top 5 Best Motor Yachts in 2024

All the motor yachts we've tested, tecnomar lamborghini 63 yacht.

Tecnomar Lamborghini 63 Yacht

Where to buy:

Where to buy tecnomar lamborghini 63 yacht:.

Lamborghini has big plans to commemorate the brand’s 60th anniversary. The iconic Italian automaker started manufacturing in 1963. Building 63 limited edition supercars, dubbed the Siàn, wasn’t enough. The carmaker also has teamed up with Tecnomar, part of the Italian Sea Group shipyards, to build 63 limited-edition yachts.

The result is the Tecnomar for Lamborghini 63. It’s 63 feet long and will do 63 knots flat out. That puts it on a short list of the world’s fastest motor yachts. To achieve such a feat, twin V12 MAN diesel engines are paired with a state-of-the-art hull design. The ride is fast but also smooth, comfortable, and sporty. It’s a nautical experience that is becoming of the Lamborghini name.

  • Length: 63 feet (19.2 meters)
  • Beam: 18 feet (5.5 meters)
  • Dry displacement: 52,910 pounds (24 tonnes)
  • Engines: 2x MAN V12-2000 twin-turbo, 24.24 liter, common-rail marine diesels
  • Total power: 4,000 hp (2,942 kW)
  • Total torque: 9,388 lb-ft (13,000 Nm)
  • Max Speed: 63 knots (73 mph, 117 kph)
  • Cruising Speed: 41 knots (46 mph, 74 kph)
  • Fuel consumption (max): 212 gph (800 l/h)
  • Fuel consumption (cruising) : 132 gph (500 l/h)
  • Fuel tankage: 951 gal (3,600 liters)
  • Water tankage: 159 gal (600 liters)
  • CE Category: B-16

Things we like:

Things we don't like:.

Jeanneau US

Jeanneau Worldwide

Jeanneau Merry Fisher 1295

jeanneau nc weekender

Where to Book:

Where to book jeanneau merry fisher 1295:.

All new for 2023, Jeanneau has introduced the Merry Fisher 1295 Fly, also called the NC Weekender 1295 Fly. At just over 40 feet, this true three-level yacht boasts three staterooms, two heads, tons of comfortable seating and lounge space, and enough storage to bring all your stuff with you.

Beyond helm features for easier docking, this cabin cruiser is designed to carry you and your family comfortably. There’s not really another 40-foot flybridge that offers as much as the 1295 for the same price point.

The spacious salon level features sliding glass doors that open onto the aft cockpit. The aft galley is fully appointed and allows for the perfect flow for socialization during meals and hanging out. The cockpit features a walkthrough boarding door to port and a large fold-down swim terrace to starboard.

Finally, the staterooms and heads are large and comfortable, with plenty of storage and headroom below.

  • Length: (Overall/Hull) 41 feet, 2 inches/12.56 meters; 39 feet, 1 inch/11.92 meters
  • Beam: 12 feet, 6 inches/3.80 meters
  • Draft: 2 feet, 6 inches/0.76 meters
  • Hull Weight: 18,031 pounds/8,181 kilograms
  • Bridge Clearance: 16 feet, 5 inches/5.0 meters
  • Fuel Capacity: 310 gallons/1,174 liters
  • Engines: 3x 300 horsepower Yamaha outboards
  • CE Category: B10/C12

Fleming Yachts

Fleming 55

Where to buy Fleming 55:

The Fleming 55 motor yacht is stylish and designed for comfortable long range cruising and boasts a huge storage capacity with a total area of over 250 sq ft. The nautical design displacement hull has a range of 2,000 nm with an environmentally friendly low fuel burn of just over 10 gph.

The yacht is fitted with an aquadrive anti-vibration drive system for smooth cruising. The Fleming 55 aft deck is large and spacious and extends into the salon with loads of room for deck chairs and water gear. Interior has beautiful mood lighting.

It consists of 3 good size cabins so can overnight 6 – 8 adults in comfort, and it has 3 separate heads and a beautiful raised pilot house for the skipper or captain. The master cabin is set forward as a queen berth and the bed is remote and can retract. The aft bulkhead can be used as a remote work office. The salon has an L-settee, fitted icemaker, bar, cute coffee table and TV lift area and there is room for added entertainment system components.

Another awesome added feature is the fitted “dumbwaiter” that assists in getting refreshments up from the galley. The galley is fitted with a side-by-side fridge freezer set and an under-mount double stainless steel sink with a waste disposer. This yacht is a classic and is worth viewing.

  • Length: 55’9"
  • Dry Weight: 67,801 lbs
  • Capacity: 6 - 8 people
  • Motor: 2 x 500HP Cummins QSC Engines

Grand Trawler 62

Grand Trawler 62

Where to buy Grand Trawler 62:

The Grand Trawler 62 from Beneteau hits the mark all round and is super comfortable for both live aboard and long-distance cruises. Designed to overnight 6 to 8 adults on board this gorgeous motor yacht showcases one the largest flybridges on the market for its hull length. The crisp clean interior design reflects the superior quality and workmanship that sets Beneteau’s unmistakable brand apart from the rest.

Beneteau has absolutely hit the mark with the design on this motor yacht. It features an open flowing galley, huge lounge salon and raised cockpit. The transom has a unique sea terrace area, and the master cabin layout is private and beautiful and boasts a full size double bed. It provides soft smooth comfort on board if planning long range cruising with a gyro-stabilizer and the auto-glide trim tabs.

  • Length: 62’
  • Beam: 17’10"
  • Dry Weight: 29,500 lbs
  • Motor: MANi6 730 2 x 730 HPDiesel (2x537kW)

Leopard Catamarans

Leopard 46 Powercat

Leopard 46 Powercat

Where to buy Leopard 46 Powercat:

If you are seeking extra space for entertaining and separate private berths for the crew on long passages, then the Leopard 46 is a great alternative motor yacht option to consider when deciding on a brand. Awesome for cruising, docking and anchoring, the top deck offers a great 360-degree view for sundowners. The advantage of a cat-style motor yacht is the low hull depth it has making it easy to cruise, dock or anchor in low depth ocean waters.

The exterior and interior spaces flow into each other, so the use of space is maximized, giving great volume. There is a spacious 3 or 4 cabin en-suite configuration for this hull length, perfect for guests where privacy matters. Loads of deck space for everyone to spread out and enjoy. It is streamlined and neat in terms of layout, practical use of space, giving you a nice feeling of relaxation and a home away from home feel. Awesome size U-shaped settee caters for 8 guests to dine in comfort, so perfect for entertaining or unforgettable candle-light evenings.

  • Length: 46’4"
  • Beam: 24’1"
  • Dry Weight: 36,945 lbs
  • Capacity: 8 - 12 people
  • Motor: 2 x Yanmar 52 HP

Back Cove Yachts

Back Cove 41

Back Cove 41

Where to buy Back Cove 41:

The Back Cove 41 is designed and constructed in Maine, USA. The 41 is the flagship of the Back Cove motor yacht range. The motor yacht is a perfect combination of traditional and modern in terms of its design. It is a very economical and comfortable classic for long range excursions.

The yacht is fitted with an efficient single diesel engine and straight shaft, thrusters, a generator set, and reverse cycle heat and air conditioning systems for more extreme weather conditions. With no fly bridge it is easy to captain and maneuver singlehanded and it can overnight up to 6 adults.

This elegant yet practical motor boat consists of two state cabins, two heads and a well-thought-out saloon. The interior is balanced and sensible with a dual stainless steel refrigerator & freezer set, a simple ceramic cooktop surface and a fitted convection microwave and a groovy U-shaped settee that converts into a dinette. Comfortable, stately and classic cruising yacht for all purposes.

  • Length: 46’6”
  • Capacity: 6 people
  • Motor: Cummins QSC8.3 marine diesel engine

Nordic Tugs

Nordic Tug 54

Nordic Tug 54

Where to buy Nordic Tug 54:

These sturdy ocean vessels are made in the US in the original classic tugboat style, rugged from the outside and the best kept secret is that they are incredibly beautiful and comfortable on the inside. A perfect floating home away from home for a live-aboard adventure and capable of exploring and facing all types of oceans that may have more adverse weather systems.

This tug style motor yacht has both a pilothouse and lower deck, and then an open flow from the salon into the aft deck. The hull is made from solid knitted fiberglass reinforced plastic and fitted with solid stainless steel handrails. The design offers safety and absolute comfort and they are built to last for many years. For long range expeditions, it has 1,300 gallon fuel capacity in a dual set of tanks and 300 gallon water holding capacity and large black water holding tank at 130 gallon capacity.

This cruising motor yacht boasts classic teak interiors, a classic chart drawer and there is every attention to detail on the cabinets and draws throughout. It has 2 comfortable queen size berths below. Day – night shaded solid fitted windows are in the salon. The galley is beautiful and features a functional and spacious U-shaped solid surface countertop. Viewing this motor yacht interior is worth it. Solid lasting stainless steel finishes throughout and a functional extra stainless steel basin fitted in the aft deck. Split air heating and cooling system installed so perfect for all extreme weather conditions.

  • Length: 56’1"
  • Beam: 16’1"
  • Dry Weight: 68,000 lbs
  • Capacity: 4 - 6 people
  • Motor: Volvo Penta – D11 – 670 HP Diesel

Bertram Yachts

Bertram 61 Convertible

Bertram 61 Convertible

Where to buy Bertram 61 Convertible:

The Bertrams 61 is a sporty bluewater fishing cruiser and is a perfect man cave that is fit for a king and perfect for a 6 person cruising or fishing adventure. Every attention to solid long lasting detail on layout, fittings and the hull design. The expansive 188 ft cockpit has a barbeque and has huge customized fish boxes.

The classic Amtico teak and maple wood interior is unreal and the saloon has a 360 degree view with large windows. It has 2 cabins, the master has a queen size double bed, and the second has 2 single beds (bunk bed option). The galley doubles up into a bar with shellacked wood stools. Well worth viewing in person, and definitely wet weather gear required with this one!

  • Length: 61’1"
  • Beam: 18’3"
  • Motor: Caterpillar C32 ACERT diesels

Azimut Yachts

Azimut Magellano 66

Azimut Magellano 66

Where to buy Azimut Magellano 66:

The Azimut Magellano 66 has a striking visual appeal. The innovative dual-mode hull on this motor yacht decreases the use of horsepower making this vessel super fuel efficient for long range distances.

This 66 foot motor yacht has a near 2,000 mile range, so all those secret hideaway coves and overnight destinations will be well within your reach. The progressive interior space allows for 6 – 8 adults to be in total comfort for cruising, docking or adventures on anchor.

Aesthetically balanced, this motor yacht interior is streamlined and contemporary with attention to every detail. The fly bridge is fitted with a barbecue for entertainment, and an outdoor shower for fresh water splashes after an early morning swim. The saloon offers a beautiful indoor entertainment space. The entire motor yacht is fitted with customised innovative cabinets for storage and neatness. Below deck are three spacious private staterooms. Well worth viewing the Azimut 66 in person, this is a very sought after motor yacht design.

  • Length: 66’1"
  • Dry Weight: 46,400 lbs
  • Capacity: 6 - 10 people
  • Motor: 425-hp Cummins QSB 5.9s

Prestige Yachts

Prestige X70

Prestige X70

Where to buy Prestige X70:

Prestige Yachts X70 launches the unique compact motor superyacht that dreams are made of. Captains, owners and skippers are going to love the infinite cockpit area, it is super comfortable and spacious. A new feature is that the upper fly deck layout has a walk area on each side for ease of access. The maritime-angled window gives the classic yacht exterior shape a more çheeky sporty feel.

A refreshing spacious open plan layout that flows right throughout the yacht allows you to add small elements of comfort to match your personal taste. This motor yacht can accommodate 6 – 10 adults in total comfort for cruising, docking or vacations. The engine room workmanship and layout are worth a special mention and the yacht is driven by dual Volvo Penta 900-hp diesel engines.

The main deck is light and has a very open plan feel with comfortable seating couches that keep you close to the water. The galley is open plan and centrally positioned for serving meals and refreshments, and can be closed off for privacy. Below deck it has 3 ensuite cabins, and the master suite boasts a full size bed with en-suite and has it’s own private access portside. The aft swim platform is on the transom and it has a fitted retractable couch so this space can also be enjoyed. Definitely worth viewing this motor yacht in person.

  • Length: 71’7"
  • Beam: 17’6"
  • Dry Weight: 73,634 lbs
  • Motor: 2 x 1200 or 1350 hp Volvo Penta D13

Viking Yachts

Viking 82

Where to buy Viking 82:

Viking 82 is utter luxury and excellence combined. Modern with clean space and awesome layout. It is also compact, rugged and versatile for fishing or water sport activities. The motor yacht command station has full weather protection and is outfitted with custom designed navigation and entertainment systems.

Below deck are 4 ensuite cabins with walk-in showers and generous windows, the master suite has a king size bed, and enhanced lighting. The open bridge layout is spacious and has a full size dinette and electric grill and the galley has stone counters.

There’s a beautiful sun pad and lounge area and it comes with a wet bar. World class walnut cabinets throughout. The huge transom fish box can double up as stowage to fit extra water gear. This motor yacht offers the owner control and access to absolutely everything the ocean has to offer.

  • Length: 84’9”
  • Beam: 20’6"
  • Dry Weight: 158,850 lbs
  • Motor: MAN / V12 15500CRM 1550 MHP

Sunreef Yachts Eco

Sunreef 100 Eco

Sunreef 100 Eco

Where to buy Sunreef 100 Eco:

This twin-hull rose-gold superyacht with its beautiful grey metallic hull is a special one to look at. Sunreef yachts’ green-powered catamarans are next generation in ethical and responsible boating.

Green propulsion is the way to go, fitted with wind turbines, eco-aware materials, and solar skin lighting system this vessel is setting stage for the future of motor yacht design. If you are passionate about the environment and conservation then this motor yacht brand is leading the way with enlightened future sustainability.

The 42,65 ft beam gives you incredible space aboard. It can be customised and you can select decor for the vast relaxation areas. It has a full-beam bow terrace with a sunken lounge, huge flybridge, spa pool, gym area and of course a bar. Layout plan includes a huge aft storage locker that fits 2 jet skis and has a fitted hydraulic platform. There is super comfortable accommodation for up to 10 guests.

The Sunreef Eco 100 motor yacht gives the discerning and progressive owner exceptional comfort and peace of mind. The perfect blend of luxury and sustainability make this brand stand out. Hybrid green yachts are the progressive next step.

  • Length: 100’
  • Beam: 42’65"
  • Capacity: 10 - 14 people
  • Motor : 2 x 1300 HP engines [2 x 180kW - 2 x 360kW]

Conrad Shipyard

Conrad C144S

Conrad C144S

Where to buy Conrad C144S:

The Conrad C144S is just above and beyond. Already took the top place at the 2019 World Superyacht Award ‘Viatoris’. This superyacht is just above and beyond. So far there are only 2 of these babies on the water so far. Whether or not this yacht is within your reach, it is worth taking a sneak preview at this timeless and prestigious straight hull design. Go big or go home.

4 VIP ensuite guest cabins, 4 crew cabins, beach club, 4 lounge zones, 2 beautiful bar areas, 2 dining spaces, full cinema – you can probably modify this space into a gym or remote office, the world is your absolute oyster here. Best you get cracking and sign off on your order today as this timeless superyacht needs at least 24 months pre-production time.

  • Length: 145’
  • Beam: 29’2"
  • Dry Weight: 472 ton
  • Capacity: 16 + people
  • Motor: 2 x CAT C18 ACERT

Related Reviews

Read full review

lurssen-nord-462-featured-picture

The World of Motor Yachts: Luxury, Performance, and Freedom

Motor yachts offer a unique combination of power, comfort, and freedom on the water. Designed primarily for pleasure cruising or racing, these impressive vessels put the world at your fingertips.

A Spectrum of Sizes: Finding Your Perfect Motor Yacht

Motor yachts come in different sizes, catering to every desire. From compact and maneuverable models around 33 feet (10 meters) to sprawling luxury palaces exceeding 131 feet (40 meters), there’s a perfect fit for every dream.

Pricing Considerations:

  • Smaller motor yachts (33ft – 50ft) typically range from $500,000 to $3 million.
  • Mid-size yachts (50ft – 80ft) can fall between $3 million and $15 million.
  • Superyachts (over 80ft) enter a whole new pricing category, reaching into the hundreds of millions and beyond, depending on size, customization, and features.

Power and Maneuverability: Taking Control on the Water

Motor yachts usually have two or more motors. This has several advantages:

  • Better Maneuverability: Two engines allow captains to better deal with challenging weather conditions. Thanks to vessel control software systems, it also provides some advantages when docking.
  • Fuel Efficiency and Range: With dual engines and customized fuel tanks, extended cruises at constant speeds with lower fuel consumption are possible. This is where the explorer yacht, designed to roam, even cross the Atlantic, thrives.
  • Shallow Water Access: Unlike deep-keel sailboats, motor yachts have a shallower draft, allowing them to explore beautiful coves and hidden bays inaccessible to other vessels.

The Flybridge Advantage: Elevated Yachting Experience

Many motor yachts, particularly larger models, will also have a flybridge. This offers captains better visibility for navigation, docking, and it provides passengers with higher vistas. Flybridge boats, like the smaller Merry Fisher , have that additional social space, featuring seating areas, wet bars, and sundecks.

Beyond Ownership: Exploring the Charter Option

Chartering offers a fantastic alternative for those seeking a taste of the motor yacht lifestyle without the full commitment of ownership. Chartering allows owners to offset some of the cost of their boats.

In 2020, an estimated 15,000 yachts were exceeding 79 feet available for charter worldwide.

Charter yachts often involve annual maintenance costs of around 15% of the yacht’s value. For vessels valued over $3 million, that’s almost a half million a year!

Our boating editors recently checked out the Miami boat show to understand this decadent market. We found many owners who don’t even get to use their yachts as much as they’d like, so the chartering world makes sense for everyone.

Entering the Realm of Superyachts: Luxury Redefined

The “Commercial Yacht Code” categorizes motor yachts exceeding 79 feet (24 meters) as superyachts and those surpassing 131 feet (40 meters) as mega-yachts. These behemoths represent the pinnacle of luxury yachting, with meticulously crafted interiors, advanced technological marvels, and crew quarters to cater to the owner’s every need. Naturally, these vessels come with exceptionally high construction standards and price tags.

Buying a Motor Yacht

Once you have made a decision to purchase a motor yacht, the next step is to determine exactly what make of motor yacht will best fit your requirements. There are so many different motor yachts, give yourself time to find the right one and ask yourself this.

  • Budget capacity?
  • New or used?
  • What type of user experience do you want out of the vessel?
  • What hull size of motor yacht is best?

Once you have created a shortlist, you can then refine your search. Take time out to go and view in person. Book yourself an experience aboard and head over to your closest marina and speak to owners. Consider these points before purchasing a motor yacht.

  • Pre-book buyer’s sea trials for your shortlist
  • Select the perfect motor yacht
  • Used – get a certified hull survey, safety comes first
  • Get annual insurance quotes
  • Calculate dockage – purchase or rent a slip or dock
  • Calculate monthly upkeep and maintenance
  • Calculate extra costs like navigational devices & fittings
  • Draft your own checklist
  • Draft & sign off sale & purchase contracts
  • Draft & sign off a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA)
  • Ensure satisfied 100%
  • Execute payment and take transfer of ownership
  • Register and insure the motor yacht

Frequently Asked Questions About Motor Yachts

These 5 questions give you some clarity on what to consider when purchasing a motor yacht.

  • How many guests and crew (combined) are you comfortable with aboard? Privately registered motor yachts can carry no more than 12 passengers, so often this will define the length of the vessel.
  • Then consider functionality and lifestyle. Decide upfront what you want out of the motor yacht, are you planning to use it for charter, private cruising, sport, remote office, family vacations or entertainment or all of the above?
  • Do you plan to use it on inland water systems or oceans or both?
  • Do you want to captain and skipper yourself or would you prefer a crew, so you have time to enjoy the experience?  Set a limit to your budget both in terms of purchase and then beyond that one has to consider the long term upkeep, storage, and monthly maintenance costs
  • What is the best length for a Motor Yacht?

If you plan on becoming your own captain, the best hull size on average for a single-handed skipper would be between 32ft to 42ft.

The best motor yacht length is defined by both the objective and purpose of the vessel. Added to this one should consider both the budget and upkeep costs, including dockage fees, as these are most often calculated at a per foot rate. The next factor would be to select a good for the number of passengers you wish to have aboard (family, guests, crew), as the number of sleeping berths are limited on smaller hull sizes. As you increase your hull size, you need to consider that this will then add an extra headcount because you have to factor in additional space for crew.

They say the old golden unwritten nautical rule is that boat length is always defined by a person’s age. Whatever your age, double it, and that gives you a perfect hull length in feet (for example, if you are 40 years of age you should consider an 80ft hull length).

They can cost anywhere between $100,000- $10,000,000. The sky’s the absolute limit when it comes to what you can spend on a motor yacht. Used or new, the cost is often defined by the design, size and year of manufacture. Quality motor yachts are built to last and most often retain market related value if they are properly maintained and have an accident free history.

Motor yachts are generally between 33ft – 79 feet, super yachts are generally over 79 feet in hull length, and mega yachts are over 100 feet.

If you purchase a globally recognized brand, it makes selling the boat in the future much easier. The established global motor yacht brands offer a range of existing designs that can be customized to suit any individual requirement. These approved motor yacht designs are often updated with the latest technology and modifications over the years. A tip is that reputable international brands retain market value over the years so are considered a valuable investment.

There is never one best hull type for a motor yacht, there is rather a series or collection of yachts or vessels that are released and they often use the exact same hull design for different lengths in a series. There is a huge selection and variation of hull designs, and this is exactly what defines a yacht. Motor boat hulls are specifically designed to cut through water with the least possible resistance while remaining balanced in all types of weather and water conditions. Each year hull designs improve and often a new hull release is about using the latest carbon fiber molding techniques for structural strength, rather than a modification to the actual shape of the design.

Super yachts are power driven water vessels specially designed by yacht engineers and shipbuilders and are normally 71 – 99 feet in length. Super yachts that exceed 100ft in length are classified as mega yachts.

On this page

Table of content:, breadcrumbs.

  • / Motor Yacht
  • / Motor Yachts

guest

Continue reading

Lund 2025 Impact Xs

Lund 2025 Impact XS

fusion-ms-ra70-featured

Fusion MS-RA70

polo-ralph-lauren-mens-merton-featured

Polo Ralph Lauren Men’s Merton

womens-life-vests

Women’s Life Vest

Gallery of motor yachts review.

expensive motorboats

superyachts in port at the Monaco Yacht Show

expensive motorboats

  • Waterproof Backpacks
  • Duffel Bags
  • Hiking Backpacks
  • Waterproof Gear
  • Teepee Tents
  • Camping Chairs
  • Heated Socks
  • Marine Binoculars
  • Night Vision Goggles
  • Windbreaker Jackets
  • Collapsible and Folding Wagons
  • Portable Power Stations

sea-to-summit-sling-lightweight-5

  • Dive Computer
  • Scuba Diving BCD
  • Scuba Regulators
  • Freediving Fins
  • Diving Wetsuits
  • Women’s Wetsuits
  • Scuba Diving Drysuits
  • Rebreathers
  • Scuba Diving Masks
  • Snorkel Masks
  • Full Face Diving Mask
  • Full Face Snorkel Masks
  • Prescription Dive Masks
  • Prescription Snorkel Masks
  • Snorkeling Gear
  • Kids Wetsuits
  • Seiko Dive Watches
  • Best Underwater Cameras
  • Waterproof Cameras
  • Underwater Scooters
  • Best Dive Knife
  • Dive Lights
  • Underwater Metal Detector
  • Reef Safe Sunscreen
  • Scuba Tanks
  • Dive Destinations
  • Liveaboards

Wakatobi Resort And House Reef.

  • Paddle boards (SUP)
  • Best Touring Paddle Boards
  • Best Beginner Paddle Boards
  • Motorized paddle boards
  • Electric SUP Pumps
  • Paddles For Paddle Boarding

isle-switch-bradley-on-board

  • Beach Chairs
  • Beach Umbrellas
  • Beach Wagons
  • Beach Tents
  • Beach Canopy
  • Beach Towels
  • Beach Blankets
  • Water Shoes
  • Water Socks
  • Boogie Boards

havaianas-mens-brazil-logo-featured

  • Swimming Goggles
  • Swimming Fins
  • Swimming Earplugs
  • Women’s Swim Shorts

expensive motorboats

  • Getting into Sailing
  • Life Jackets
  • Marine Flares
  • Waterproof Marine Radios
  • Pontoon Boat Accessories
  • Sailing Gloves
  • Boat Fenders

Jet Ski On Water

  • Inflatable Kayak
  • Folding Kayaks
  • Tandem Kayaks
  • Sit On Top Kayaks
  • Sea Touring Kayaks
  • Ocean Kayak
  • Pedal Kayaks
  • Fishing Kayaks
  • Kayak Life Vests
  • Kayak Shoes
  • Kayak Paddles
  • Kayak Trailers
  • Kayak Anchors
  • How to Choose a Kayak – A Beginner’s Guide
  • How To Choose a Kayak Paddle? [What You Need to Know]
  • Kayaking Gear for Beginners
  • What to Wear Kayaking
  • Kayak Safety

Inflatable Boats On Shore

  • All Mountain Snowboards
  • Snowboard Boots
  • Snowboard Bindings
  • Snowboard Helmets
  • Snowboard Jackets
  • Atomic Skis
  • Blizzard Skis
  • Ski Resorts in the US

Crested Butte Ski

  • Travel Backpacks
  • Weekender Bags
  • Packing Cubes
  • Suitcases and Travel Luggages
  • The Best All-inclusive Resorts in the World

Cayo Espanto A Private Island Belize Featured

  • Men’s Yoga Pants
  • Yoga Shorts
  • Yoga Mat Bags
  • Yoga Blocks

expensive motorboats

  • Laptop Backpack
  • Mini Backpacks
  • Mesh Backpacks
  • Clear Backpacks
  • Fanny Packs
  • Water Bottles

fjallraven-kanken-backpack-featured

  • Waterproof Jacket
  • Waterproof Pants
  • Waterproof Watches
  • Waterproof Headphones
  • Snorkel Fins
  • Best Snorkels
  • Best Dive Sites in the World
  • Best Dive Resorts in the World
  • Central & South America
  • North America
  • Southeast Asia
  • Indian Ocean
  • Asia Pacific
  • Middle East & Red Sea
  • All Liveaboards
  • Liveaboards in Australia
  • Liveaboards in Fiji
  • Liveaboards in Micronesia
  • Liveaboards in Myanmar (Burma)
  • Liveaboards in the Maldives
  • Liveaboards in the Philippines
  • Liveaboards in Egypt
  • Liveaboards in Costa Rica
  • Liveaboards in Belize
  • Liveaboards in Mexico
  • Liveaboards in the Galapagos Islands
  • Aggressor Liveaboards
  • Liveaboard in Thailand
  • Liveaboards in Indonesia
  • The Best Starboard Paddle Boards: A Brand Guide
  • Bluefin Paddle Boards: A Brand Guide
  • Isle Paddle Boards: A Brand Guide
  • Red Paddle Co. Ride 10’6
  • ROC Paddle Boards: A Brand Guide
  • The Best iRocker Paddle Boards: A Brand Guide
  • Blackfin Paddle Boards
  • Pontoon Boats
  • Bowrider Boats
  • Cabin Cruiser Boats
  • Inflatable Boats
  • Electric Surfboard
  • Efoil Board
  • Jet Body Boards
  • All-Mountain Skis
  • Ski Bindings
  • Ski Poles for Downhill & Touring
  • Ski Goggles
  • Ski Gloves and Mittens
  • Ski Jackets
  • Ski and Snowboarding Pants and Bibs
  • Ski Helmets
  • Best Resorts in North America
  • Whistler Blackcomb Ski Resort
  • Copper Mountain Ski Resort
  • Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort Area Review
  • Jackson Hole Ski Resort
  • Telluride Ski Resort
  • Aspen Ski Resort
  • Crested Butte Ski Resort
  • Kirkwood Ski Resort
  • Alta Ski Resor
  • Park City Ski Resort
  • Winter Park Resort
  • Breckenridge Ski Resort
  • Vail Ski Resort
  • Snowmass Ski Resort
  • Heavenly Ski Resort
  • Taos Ski Valley
  • Palisades Tahoe Ski Resort
  • Ski Santa Fe
  • Angel Fire Ski Resort
  • Sun Valley Ski resort
  • All-Inclusive Resorts in Aruba
  • All-Inclusive Resorts in Cabo
  • All-inclusive resort in Cancun
  • All-Inclusive Resorts In Costa Rica
  • All-Inclusive Resorts in Cozumel
  • All-Inclusive Resorts in Hawaii
  • All-Inclusive Resorts in Mexico
  • All-Inclusive Puerto Rico Resorts
  • All-Inclusive Resorts in Tulum
  • All-Inclusive Resorts in Turks and Caicos
  • Best Diving in the Caribbean
  • Diving in Guadeloupe
  • Diving in Aruba
  • Diving in Antigua and Barbuda
  • Diving in the Bahamas
  • Diving in Barbados
  • Diving in Bonaire
  • Diving in the British Virgin Islands
  • Diving in Cayman Islands
  • Diving in Cuba
  • Diving in Curacao
  • Diving in Dominican Republic
  • Diving in Grenada
  • Diving in Jamaica
  • Diving in Martinique
  • Diving in Puerto Rico
  • Diving in St. Maarten
  • Diving in St. Lucia
  • Diving in Tobago
  • Diving in the Turks and Caicos
  • Diving in Belize
  • Diving in Costa Rica
  • Diving in the Galapagos Islands
  • Diving in Mexico
  • Diving in Roatan Honduras
  • Diving in California
  • Diving in Florida
  • Diving in North Carolina
  • Best Diving in Southeast Asia
  • Diving in Thailand
  • Diving in the Philippines
  • Diving in Indonesia
  • Diving in Vietnam
  • Diving in Cambodia
  • Diving in the Maldives
  • Diving in Australia
  • Diving in Japan
  • Diving in Fiji
  • Best Diving in Europe
  • Diving in Mallorca
  • Diving in Malta
  • Diving In Denmark
  • Diving in Egypt
  • All Liveaboards in Thailand
  • Liveaboards in the Similan Islands
  • All Liveaboards in Indonesia
  • Liveaboards in Komodo
  • Women’s Life Vest
  • All-Inclusive Resorts in Playa del Carmen
  • All Diving in Mexico
  • Diving in Cozumel
  • Diving In Similan Islands – Khao Lak Area
  • Diving in Malapascua
  • All the Diving in Indonesia
  • Diving in Bali
  • Diving in Gili Islands
  • Diving in Komodo
  • Diving in Sulawesi
  • Diving in Raja Ampat
  • All Diving in Australia
  • Diving In Brothers Islands

expensive motorboats

Paddle boarding

expensive motorboats

Everyday Life

Most Expensive

The 20 most expensive yachts in the world.

Avatar photo

What are the most expensive yachts in the world?

If you have a passion for sailing or can appreciate the engineering masterpieces mentioned below, then this is an article for you. 

To be able to afford even afford the cheapest superyacht on our list, your net worth will need to be in the hundreds of millions, if not, billions range!

Here’s a list of the 20 most expensive yachts in the world…  

Table of Contents

The list of yachts and figures mentioned below have been compiled from various sources around the web, such as Luxhabitat , List25 and Unilad . 

These are the 20 most expensive yachts in the world:  

20. Lionheart – $150 Million

Most Expensive Yachts - Lionheart

Sir Philip Green kicks off the list with his 207-foot behemoth, Lionheart.

The British retail billionaire commissioned Italian shipbuilding company, Benetti, to build his superyacht.

The boat has six VIP rooms, several private balconies and was finished in 2016.

Lionheart has had many famous faces walking its decks, including Kate Moss , Simon Cowell and Cristiano Ronaldo .

19. Aviva – $150 Million

Most Expensive Yachts - Aviva

British billionaire Joe Lewis’s superyacht comes in at number nineteen at a cool $150 million.

His boat has a full-size tennis court and is thought to house some of his most precious and expensive art pieces, including Picasso.

When he’s not spending time in his Bahamas residence, Joe spends several months a year aboard Aviva and his other three superyachts.

18. Solandge – $180 Million

Most Expensive Yachts - Solandge

Next up, we have the $180 million dollar superyacht built by Lurssen. 

In 2017, the Solandge was the highest brokerage and is available to rent for around $1.1 million a week.

The 280-foot yacht has eight VIP suites, a grand piano and a glass art installation by Murano.

17. Ecstasea – $200 Million

Most Expensive Yachts - Ectasea

Built by Russian oligarch Roman Abramovich in 2004, Ecstasea was the largest Feadship ever built.

The yacht is made of steel and is approximately 85.95 metres long and has a beam of 11.50 metres. This means it has a deadweight of 585 metric tons!

Ecstasea comfortably sleeps 14 passengers and has won multiple design awards for its stunning interior.

16. The Rising Sun – $200 Million

Most Expensive Yachts - The Rising Sun

The Rising Sun was designed by Jon Bannenberg and built by Lürssen in 2004 for Larry Ellison .

It has 82 rooms over five floors, a basketball court, wine cellar and a movie theatre.

From 2010 it has been owned by David Geffen and is the 12th largest superyacht in the world, measuring 138 metres.

The Rising Sun cost $200 million to build and has since had even more money spent on luxury fixtures and fittings.

15. Octopus – $200 Million 

Most Expensive Yachts - Octopus

Designed and built in 2003 for Microsoft Co-founder, Paul Allen, Octopus has one hell of a lavish interior.

It has a large study, basketball court, recording studio, an outside bar with a whirlpool and a glass bottom swimming pool.

Octopus sleeps up to 26 guests and 56 crew members at any one time and comes equipped with two submarines and two helipads. 

14. Lady Moura – $210 Million

Most Expensive Yachts - Lady Moura

The next most expensive superyacht in the world is Lady Moura.

Lady Moura is owned by Saudi Arabian businessman Nasser Al-Rashid, who’s also an advisor to the Saudi Royal family.

The yacht comes with some very impressive features, such as a pool with a retractable roof, a helicopter and 24 karat gold lettering and embellishments throughout.

If that wasn’t enough, Lady Moura also features a unique sand-covered hydraulic platform that comes out of one side, to give guests a beach-like experience in the middle of the ocean.

13. Al Mirqab – $250 Million 

Most Expensive Yachts - Al Mirqab

Al Mirqab is owned by Sheikh Hamad bin Jassim bin Jaber Al-Thani, the former Prime Minister of Qatar.

The yacht has 10 bedrooms, a helipad, a swimming pool, a selection of VIP suites, an onboard cinema, jacuzzi and a variety of watersports equipment.

After it was completed in 2008, it was dubbed the second most beautiful yacht in the world.

It can accommodate up to 24 guests and comfortably house crew members in its 55 crew cabins.

12. Dilbar – $256 Million

Most Expensive Yachts - Dilbar

Number twelve is Russian owned superyacht, Dilbar.

It belongs to Russian oligarch Alisher Usmanov, and he’s often seen using Dilbar to cruise around his private islands.

As well as being one of the most expensive yachts in the world, it’s also one of the largest – measuring a colossal 360ft in length and just over 50ft high.

It was built in 2008 by Lürssen Yachts and was named after Alisher’s mother.

Dilbar has one helipad, several swimming pools and accommodates 20 guests and 48 cabin crew.

11. Pelorus – $300 Million

Most Expensive Yachts - Pelorus

Pelorus was built by Lürssen in 2003 and bought by Russian billionaire, Roman Abramovich in 2004.

Since then, Pelorus has changed hands a few times and is now owned by HongKong based billionaire, Samuel Tak Lee.

Pelorus is 115 meters long and weighs a staggering 5517 tonnes.

As well as all the normal luxuries you’d expect to find onboard a superyacht of this calibre, she also comes equipped with two helipads, landing boats and jet skis.

She accommodates a full-time crew of 46, year round.

10. Serene – $300 Million

Most Expensive Yachts - Serene

The tenth most expensive yacht in the world is the 439-foot, Serene.

Built-in 2011 by Fincantieri, for Russian billionaire Yuri Scheffler, Serene is has been one of the favourite rental yachts for the mega-rich, reportedly costing celebrities like Bill Gates around million a week!

It was purchased in 2015 by Prince Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia and sleeps around 24 guests and 52 crew members.

It comes with multiple swimming pools, two helipads, a submarine, and an amazing underwater viewing room!

9. Al Said – $300 Million

Most Expensive Yachts - Al Said

The next mega yacht on the list is owned by and named after the Sultan of Oman, Qaboos Bin Said Al Said.

Built between 2007-2008, little else is known about the Al Said, other than it has a large concert hall that’s big enough to house a 50-piece orchestra.

Also, it can host up to 70 guests, sleep a crew of 154 and reach around 22 knots!

8. Radiant – $320 Million

Most Expensive Yachts - Radiant

Built by Lürssen in 2009, Radiant is owned by Emirate Billionaire Abdulla Al Futtaim.

The superyacht is roughly 110 meters long, weighs approximately 5027 gross tons and sleeps up to 20 guests and 44 crew members.

She comes with multiple swimming pools, a helipad, a massage room, a swimming platform, a movie theatre, a gym and a jacuzzi.

The Radiant is also equipped with a highly powerful water cannon to defend herself from pirate attacks!

7. Dubai – $400 Million

Most Expensive Yachts - Dubai

Dubai is owned by the Sheik of Dubai, Mohammed Rashid al-Maktoum.

Some of its features include jacuzzis, a swimming pool with handmade tiles, a helipad and a striking circular glass staircase which changes colour when lit from above.

Dubai also houses a split-level owner’s deck, several VIP and social areas, guest suites and a crew of up to 115 people.

6. Motor Yacht A – $440 Million 

Most Expensive Yachts - Motor Yacht A

This very impressive looking 390-foot superyacht was built by Blohm + Voss shipyard and launched in 2008.

It’s thought to be owned by Andrey Melnichenko, a Russian billionaire businessman and philanthropist.

Motor Yacht A can accommodate 14 guests and 42 crew members and is around 400 feet long.

It features a 2,500 sqft master bedroom, a disco, a helicopter hanger, a separate 30-foot speedboat and a glass-bottomed swimming pool.

Awesome! 

5. Topaz – $527 Million

Most Expensive Yachts - Topaz

Coming in at number five is this stunning Lürssen built superyacht, Topaz.

She was built for Abu Dhabi tycoon, Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Germany and launched in 2012.

The exterior was designed by Tim Heywood and Terrance Disdale Design did the interior.

It has a large jacuzzi on the main deck, a swimming pool, double helicopter landing pads and a state-of-the-art gym, cinema and conference room.

4. Azzam – $600 Million

Most Expensive Yachts - Azzam

This 590-foot megayacht is the world’s largest yacht to date.

Its owned by Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed al-Nayan, President of the United Arab Emirates and Emir of Abu Dhabi.

Lürssen Yachts are the ones behind this mega build. Azzam has its very own missile defence system, a bullet-proof master suite and can reach speeds of more than 30 knots, or 35mph, making it one of the fastest yachts on the planet!

3. Streets of Monaco – $1 Billion

Most Expensive Yachts - Streets of Monaco

The first billion-dollar yacht on our list is the “Streets of Monaco”.

By far one of the most impressive and expensive yachts in the world, once finished, the Streets of Monaco is going to be a 509-foot mega yacht, designed to feature miniature versions of some of Monaco’s and Monte Carlos most renowned landmarks.

The finished superyacht will include a go-kart circuit, three swimming pools, a mini-submarine a helipad, seven guest suites, a mini waterfall and a restaurant that with a fabulous underwater view.

2. Eclipse – $1.5 Billion 

Most Expensive Yachts - Eclipse

The second most expensive yacht in the world, Eclipse, is owned by Roman Abramovich.

The Russian billionaire has spared no expense when it comes to his superyacht.

He’s installed a private defence system, including missile detection sensors, intruder alarms and armour plating and bulletproof windows in his master bedroom. 

On top of that, Eclipse has two helipads, two swimming pools, 24 guest bedrooms, a disco hall and a mini-submarine.

It’s unclear how much Eclipse actually cost, but it is believed to be in the region of $1.5 billion!

1. History Supreme – $4.8 Billion

Most Expensive Yachts - History Supreme

Topping the list of the most expensive superyachts in the world at an eye-watering $4.8 billion is History Supreme.

This magnificent accomplishment is built from 10,000 kilograms of solid gold and platinum and is 100-foot long.

It was designed by Stuart Huges, a world-renowned luxury designer, for Malaysia’s richest man, Robert Knok. The History Supreme took roughly three years to build and features an array of luxury items.

The master bedroom includes a genuine Tyrannosaurus Rex bone statue and a wall made entirely of meteorite rocks!

If that wasn’t enough, the master suite also has a 24-carat gold Aquavista Panoramic Wall Aquarium.

We hope you enjoyed our list of the 20 most expensive yachts in the world.

How cool would it be to spend a few months a year cruising the world on one of these bad boys!

Here’s a quick recap of the 20 most expensive yachts in the world!

  • History Supreme – $4.8 Billion
  • Eclipse – $1.5 Billion
  • Streets of Monaco – $1 Billion
  • Azzam – $600 Million
  • Topaz – $527 Million
  • Motor Yacht A – $440 Million 
  • Dubai – $400 Million
  • Radiant – $320 Million
  • Al Said – $300 Million
  • Serene – $300 Million
  • Pelorus – $300 Million
  • Dilbar – $256 Million
  • Al Mirqab – $250 Million
  • Lady Moura – $210 Million
  • Octopus – $200 Million 
  • The Rising Sun – $200 Million
  • Exstasea – $200 Million
  • Solandge – $180 Million
  • Aviva – $150 Million
  • Lionheart – $150 Million

What’s your favourite most expensive yacht? Leave a comment below.

The 10 Most Expensive Precious Metals in the World

The 10 Most Expensive Guitars in the World

Avatar photo

Matt McIntyre is a digital marketing consultant and certified marketing strategist. When he's not talking about business or marketing, you'll find him in the gym.

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

The 20 Most Expensive Tequilas in the World

' src=

What are the most expensive tequilas in the world?

Tequila is one of the most popular liquors in the world and, in the United States alone, nearly 20 million 9-liter cases are consumed every year!

Whether you’re drinking it neat or mixing it into a margarita, you probably have a favorite brand that you know tastes great.

However, some brands can get incredibly expensive, and it is these tequilas that we are counting down today.

How did we select this list of tequilas?

We’ve put over 10 hours of research into re-writing and updating this list for 2024.

The tequilas on this list were selected by taking the current average sale price, at the time of writing.

Prices for rare tequila can vary depending on where they’re listed for sale; so for each tequila on this list, we checked the price across multiple websites and settled on the average.

Next comes the question, when does tequila stop being tequila, and start being artwork?

If you’re a fan of tequila you can probably think of at least one brand that treats their bottles as artwork.

These bottles can often be worth thousands, but is it all just similar tequila in a fancy and unique bottle?

We’ve decided we’re not going to be the judge of what’s tequila and what’s artwork, so what you see on this list reflects a true order, based on price per bottle.

The 2 Most Expensive Tequilas in the World

Tequila is a very versatile liquor and there is no shortage of varieties you can find at your local store.

That said, some of these tequilas are reserved for only the most wealthy buyers, and you certainly won’t want to drink them on a casual night out.

Without further ado, here’s our list of the 20 most expensive tequilas money can buy:

20. 1800 Coleccion Tequila

Most Expensive Tequilas - 1800 Coleccion Tequila

Price/Bottle: $2,000

This unique expensive tequila gets its name from the year that distillers started using oak barrels for aging, and it is owned by the insanely wealthy Beckmann family.

Distilled twice during its 10-year aging process, this tequila has a flavor reminiscent of Amaretto, but with a bolder kick that reminds you that it’s tequila.

For $2,000, this tequila comes in its own crystal decanter trimmed with pewter and securely placed in a lavish case lined with suede to protect its precious contents.

It doesn’t get much more high-end than that!

19. Barrique de Ponciano Porfidio

Most Expensive Tequilas - Barrique de Ponciano Porfidio

Price/Bottle: $2,200

Made from 100% agave, Barrique de Ponciano Porfidio is a luxury tequila that has been aged for 10 years in French oak barrels and it is limited to special batches of only 2,000 bottles per year.

While its purity does impact this tequila’s price, the bottle that it comes in also makes it more expensive.

Each bottle comes with lettering and images engraved with one of the most expensive precious metals in the world, 21-karat gold.

It definitely looks and tastes every bit worth its hefty price tag.

18. Clase Azul Extra Añejo Ultra

Most Expensive Tequilas - Clase Azul Ultra

Price/Bottle: $2,500

The first Clase Azul product to appear on this list is the only one in regular production and not a limited edition.

Clase Azul’s extra anejo ultra is aged for 5 years in American whiskey and sherry casks.

The bottle is decorated in platinum, silver, and 24-karat gold.

You can expect to pay around $2,500 a bottle for this tequila.

17. AsomBroso Reserva del Porto Extra Anejo

Most Expensive Tequilas - AsomBroso Reserva del Porto

Price/Bottle: $2800

This brandy-like tequila is the type of drink that you break out during life’s greatest milestones.

Aged for 10 years in port wine barrels from Portugal, it is mixed with a small portion of white oak-aged tequila before being bottled.

Stored in a bottle shaped like a historical decanter found in an eighteenth-century Portuguese castle, it even comes secured in its own cedar humidor.

Although this tequila usually costs $2,800, you can sometimes get lucky and find it on sale for $1,499, which is honestly a great price, all things considered.

16. AsomBroso The Collaboration 12 Year Extra Anejo

Most Expensive Tequilas - AsomBroso The 12 Year Collaboration

Price/Bottle: $3,000

AsomBroso’s The Collaboration is an extra anejo tequila, aged 12 years in Silver Oak Cellar’s American casks.

The tequila is bottled inside a crystal decanter hand-made by Luciano Gambaro, a famous Italian artist.

The decanter is then packaged in a custom-polished humidor with laser engraving.

A single bottle might set you back $3,000, but there are places where you might be able to get your hands on one for cheaper.

15. Tesla Tequila Limited Edition Anejo

Most Expensive Tequilas - Tesla Limited Edition Tequila

Price/Bottle: $4,000

It does seem that Elon Musk can do no wrong. 

Tesla Tequila started as an April Fool’s joke but quickly became a physical product that sold out immediately.

For the limited edition variant, only 420 bottles were produced, a number that jokingly references a time when Musk said he was going to take Tesla private at $420 a share.

The numbered limited edition variant with matching shot glass is currently selling for around $4,000, whilst the regular variant can fetch up to $1,500.

14. Codigo 1530 14 Year Extra Anejo

Most Expensive Tequilas - Codigo 1530 14 Year Extra Anejo

Price/Bottle: $4,500

Codigo’s 1530 extra Añejo has been aged inside French White Oak Napa Valley Cabernet wine barrels for 14 years and then finished in French Cognac casks.

This is Codigo’s most expensive tequila they’ve ever produced.

A single bottle is now worth $4,500.

13. Clase Azul Pink Limited Edition Reposado

Most Expensive Tequilas - Clase Azul Pink Limited Edition

Price/Bottle: $6,000

This isn’t the first Clase Azul tequila featured on this list, and it definitely won’t be the last.

The ‘Pink’ limited edition reposado was originally released in 2016 for breast cancer awareness, with a percentage of the proceeds being donated to charity.

Just 3000 bottles of the original 2016 version were produced, featuring a white bottle hand-painted with pink artwork.

There have since been one or two other ‘Pink’ breast cancer awareness releases from Clase Azul.

12. Patron Limited Edition En Lalique Serie 3

Most Expensive Tequilas - Patron En Lalique Serie 3 Limited Edition

Price/Bottle: $7,500

Patron’s En Lalique Serie line the creme de la creme of their tequila. 

Whatever we have here is the Serie 3, their latest release, but it’s the least expensive of the three.

The Serie 3 contains a blend of 14 different extra anejo tequilas, aged in 6 different barrel types.

Held in a crystal hand-carved decanter, with decoration inspired by the Weber Blue Agave.

The decanter is stored inside a luxurious wooden box.

Each decanter is numbered, and given the fact that this is Patron’s latest release, you can expect the Serie 3’s price to rise over the next few years.

11. Patron Limited Edition En Lalique Serie 1 Extra Anejo

Most Expensive Tequilas - Patron En Lalique Serie 1 Limited Edition

Price/Bottle: $8000

Patron’s En Lalique Serie 1 uses some of their oldest tequila, presented in a hand-made decanter inspired by Mexico’s Weber Blue Agave plant, topped off with an amber stopper.

Although this bottle cost $8,000, it’s not their most expensive tequila. 

Patron went one step further for their next tequila, but more on that shortly.

10. Dos Armadillos Extra Anejo Sterling Silver

Most Expensive Tequilas - Dos Armadillos Sterling Silver Extra Anejo

Price/Bottle: $10,000

The Dos Armadillos Extra Anejo uses only an 8-year mature Blue Weber Agave.

The tequila is bottled in their signature armadillo-armored bottle, however, the armor for this edition is made entirely out of sterling silver.

$10,000 is the current price to pick up one of these bottles, a number that’s far more expensive than any other product in their range.

9. Clase Azul Puebla Limited Edition

Most Expensive Tequilas - Clase Azul Puebla Limited Edition

The Clase Azul Puebla limited edition tequila was released on the 5th of May 2021, to commemorate Cinco de Mayo, or the Battle of Puebla.

Cinco de Mayo is a yearly celebration held on the 5th of May to celebrate Mexico’s victory over the Second French Empire in 1862.

Just 300 bottles were produced and sold with a price tag of $400.

If you wished to purchase a bottle of Puebla Limited Edition today, the price would be more along the lines of $10,000.

8. Clase Azul Dia de Muertos Limited Edition

Most Expensive Tequilas - Clase Azul Dia De Los Muertos

The Dia de Los Muertos collection from Clase Azul features several individual releases, but with most of them fetching similar prices, we’ve decided to include them in one single entry.

Dia de Muertos, or ‘The Day of the Dead’ as it’s otherwise known, is a traditional Mexican holiday celebrated during November. 

Clase Azul has released a new edition within the Dia de Muertos line annually for the past several years.

Some of the bottle designs for the Dia de Muertos range are spectacular and tend to rise in value once they are no longer produced.

7. Patron Limited Edition En Lalique Serie 2 Extra Anejo

Most Expensive Tequilas - Patron En Lalique Serie 2 Limited Edition

Price/Bottle: $10,500

Patron’s En Lalique Serie 2 is aged and made slowly in small batches to ensure perfect quality.

The bottle is carved crystal, featuring a crystal bee stopper with hand-painted gold accents.

It’s then placed inside a wooden box that spins to open, creating a rather luxurious effect.

We’ve seen prices ranging from $8,000 to $12,000 for this bottle, so if you’re patient you might be able to get it at a good price.

6. Clase Azul Master Artisans

Most Expensive Tequilas - Clase Azul Master Artisans Limited Edition

Price/Bottle: $20,000

Clase Azul’s most popular and iconic tequila is their resposado tequila, housed in a blue and white bottle.

In 2021, the brand collaborated with the award-winning artist, Ángel Santos to create a hand-crafted, limited edition resposado.

The ‘Master Artisans’ line aims to highlight the work of Mexico’s most talented artists.

The Ángel Santos edition, which at launch sold for $5,000 a bottle , can now reach up to $20,000.

5. Clase Azul Jalisco 200 Limited Edition

Most Expensive Tequilas - Clase Azul Jalisco 200 Limited Edition

Price/Bottle: $25,000

The Clase Azul Jalisco is an extra anejo tequila, named after Jalisco, a state in Mexico.

As the name might also suggest, only 200 bottles of this limited-edition tequila were distilled.

The tequila comes packaged inside a custom-built wooden box, which opens to reveal a drinking glass on either side.

With just 200 bottles released, getting your hands on one of these bottles isn’t cheap.

4. Clase Azul 15th Anniversary Edition

Price/bottle: $30,000.

The Clase Azul celebrated its 15th anniversary by releasing 15 limited edition bottles priced at $30,000 each.

Each of the unique bottles was handcrafted to convey the story of Mexico and all proceeds from the sale of these bottles were donated to the Fundacion con Causa Azul A.C, which supports the work of craftsmen and artisans in Mexico.

Although this tequila is no longer available for sale, we imagine that Clase Azul will release another special edition for a future anniversary, so if you want to grab a bottle, be sure to keep your eyes peeled.

3. Jose Cuervo 250 Aniversario The Rolling Stones Special Edition

Most Expensive Tequilas - Jose Cuervo 250 Anniversario Rolling Stones

Price/Bottle: $75,000

Jose Cuervo was the very first legal tequila company to be established, with the company’s history dating back to 1795 .

To celebrate the 250th anniversary of Case Cuervo, Jose Cuervo released the 250 Anniversario tequila.

They also released a limited edition of the tequila, in collaboration with the Rolling Stones rock band.

The Jose Cuervo brand played a leading role in the Rolling Stones’ 1972 North American tour, ‘Tequila Sunrise’.

For the Rolling Stones special edition, the tequila bottle is embossed with the famous ‘Hot Lips’ logo in 14-carat gold, and spikes along the sides.

It also comes packaged in a leather guitar-shaped case, including seven shot glasses.

The tequila was initially released with a price tag of just $4,000, but prices have skyrocketed to almost $75,000 since then.

2. Tequila Ley .925 Ultra-Premium

Most Expensive Tequilas - Tequila Ley .925 Ultra-Premium

Price/Bottle: $225,000

In 2006, the artists at Tequila Ley designed three unique bottles to contain the tequila designed by Mexican artist Alejandro Gomez.

Each bottle was only created 33 times, for a total of 99 bottles, each more expensive than the last.

While this tequila in a glass bottle retails for $3,500, the gold and silver bottle goes for $25,000, and the gold and platinum for $150,000.

The most expensive of all was the white gold and platinum, which carried the insane price tag of $225,000!

Although the tequila itself is delectable, the real stars are the bottles that collectors and tequila enthusiasts scrambled to try and grab while they lasted.

1. Tequila Ley .925 Diamante

Most Expensive Tequilas - Tequila Ley .925 Diamante

Price/Bottle: $3.5 Million

Recorded as the most expensive tequila ever sold by a mile, the .925 Diamante is a true work of art.

The Ley .925 Diamante tequila is made from 100% Blue Weber agave, which is grown in the highlands of Jalisco, Mexico.

The tequila is then aged for 7 years inside French Oak barrels before being poured into a platinum and white gold version of Tequila Ley’s signature-shaped bottle.

However, none of these things truly account for the Diamante’s insane price tag.

As the name might suggest, the bottle is encrusted with 4000 diamonds, amounting to a total of 18.5 carats.

Now that we’ve come to the end of the list, you might have noticed a common theme.

Clase Azul had the most entries on this list, holding seven positions in the top 20.

This is largely due to the fact they treat their bottles as artwork, often showcasing hand-painted art in limited edition releases.

That’s not to take away from their tequila, but to say that their unique approach is very popular among collectors and tequila enthusiasts alike.

Here’s a quick recap of the 20 most expensive tequilas in the world:

  • Tequila Ley .925 Diamante
  • Tequila Ley .925 Ultra-Premium
  • Jose Cuervo 250 Aniversario The Rolling Stones Special Edition
  • Clase Azul 15th Anniversary Edition
  • Clase Azul Jalisco 200 Limited Edition
  • Clase Azul Tequila Master Artisans
  • Patron Limited Edition En Lalique Serie 2 Extra Anejo
  • Clase Azul Dia de Los Muertos Limited Edition
  • Clase Azul Puebla Limited Edition Tequila
  • Dos Armadillos Sterling Silver Extra Anejo
  • Patron Limited Edition En Lalique Serie 1 Extra Anejo
  • Patron Limited Edition En Lalique Serie 3
  • Clase Azul Pink Limited Edition Reposado
  • Codigo 1530 Fourteen Years Extra Anejo
  • Tesla Tequila Anejo
  • Asombroso The Collaboration 12 Year Extra Anejo
  • AsomBroso Reserva del Porto Extra Anejo
  • Clase Azul Extra Añejo Ultra
  • Barrique de Ponciano Porfidio
  • 1800 Coleccion Tequila

Are there any tequilas we missed out from the list? Leave a comment below.

The 25 most expensive cigars in the world.

expensive motorboats

What are the most expensive cigars in the world?

Cigars have risen in price rapidly over the past two decades.

They’re associated with luxury and wealth more than ever before, and cigar aficionados are constantly looking for rare and exclusive cigars to add to their collections.

This begs the question: how expensive can cigars be, and how difficult could it be to get your hands on the rarest of the rare?

Today we’re bringing you our updated list of the most expensive cigars in the world.

How did we select this list of cigars?

One of the issues with many expensive cigar lists on the internet, including the original version of our own, is how the cigar values are calculated.

For instance, there was once an auction for a very rare box of cigars that sold for more than half a million dollars, but the box consisted of almost 800 cigars. More details on that are below.

We’ve decided to thoroughly calculate the price/stick for each of the entries on this list, so you can have a clearer understanding of exactly which cigars are the most expensive in the world.

Whilst it may be difficult to obtain some of these cigars individually, assuming you’d want to obtain them of course, we think this is the best way of ranking the list.

Another thing we decided to take into account is limited edition releases which are packaged in custom humidors instead of regular boxes.

These humidors can often cost thousands of dollars alone, and end up distorting the price of the cigar.

Can people still buy these cigars?

Most of the cigars featured on this list can still be bought and smoked to this day. 

Many of them are limited edition lines and are likely harder to find than most cigars.

What exactly makes some cigars more expensive than others?

Typically, there are a few things that can factor into cigar price:

  • Limited edition productions
  • Aged tobacco
  • Brand recognition

Limited edition productions can often limit the total number of cigars produced, and as time passes the number of those remaining drops.

A lot of rare cigar releases also use aged tobacco leaves, and you’ll see several brands on this list that age their tobacco for at least 10 years before the cigar is rolled.

Brand recognition also plays a part as particular brands such as Cohiba are always sought after.

Finally, if none of the above results in a cigar being expensive, there are a select few who will cover cigars in gold leaf, and diamonds, and infuse them with expensive cognac.

But more on that later.

The 25 Most Expensive Cigars

We’ve done countless hours of research to ensure that our updated version of this list is the best resource available.

Without further ado, let’s get into this list of the 25 most expensive cigars in the world:

25. El Septimo The Zaya Collection (Mirifico Sapphire)

Most Expensive Cigars - El Septimo The Zaya Collection

Price/Stick: $100

The Zaya Collection, produced by El Septimo, contains 8 different varieties of cigars.

Each variety contains five different filler tobaccos, with the tobacco leaves aged up to 15 years.

Typically, each cigar features are larger ring gauge of around 60, due to the variety of filler leaves used.

Whilst the cigars within this collection have very different flavor profiles from one another, the prices/stick are relatively similar.

At the time of researching this article, we’ve included the variety selling for the most, which is Mirifico Sapphire, at $100/stick.

Other varieties within the collection include:

  • Bomba Orange
  • Short Dream Topaz
  • Kolosso Amethyst
  • Fabuloso Dark Ruby
  • Excepcion Esmerelda
  • Double Shot White
  • Bullet Black

24. Arturo Fuente Opus X 20th Anniversary

Most Expensive Cigars - Arturo Fuente Opus X 20th Anniversary

Price/Stick: $115

Arturo Fuente has long been known for their high-quality cigars, and their Opus X range contains some of the most sought-after cigars in the brand’s history.

The Opus X line was created in 1995 and in 2016 Fuente released the ‘Opus X 20th Anniversary’ edition to commemorate 20 years of the Opus X.

The ’20th Anniversary’ line contained four cigars:

  • Father & Son
  • God’s Whisper
  • Power of A Dream

The prices do vary between each variety, however, because the ‘God’s Whisper’ variety comes in a ‘Perfecto’ size it tends to be sold for higher prices than the rest of the line.

23. Cohiba Spectre 2023

Most Expensive Cigars - Cohiba Spectre 2023

Price/Stick: $130

The Spectre line from Cohiba was initially introduced in 2018 and cost $90 per stick.

Separate versions of the Cohiba Spectre have since been released annually, with the most expensive being the Spectre 2023.

The 2023 Spectre is limited to 600 boxes of 10 cigars, featuring a 52 ring gauge and 6 1/2 inches in length.

What’s most interesting about the release is the packaging, which differs somewhat from most cigars, including that of Cohiba.

The cigars are stored in a box that opens vertically, featuring a hydraulic system that elevates the tubed cigars when you press the ‘O’ button inside the Cohiba logo.

22. Davidoff Royal Release Salamones

Most Expensive Cigars - Davidoff Royal Release Salamones

Price/Stick: $150

To be qualified enough to roll the Royal Release Salamones, Davidoff makes sure you have more than 15 years of experience rolling cigars.

This cigar is only rolled by 8 different people who together have rolled over 7 million cigars.

The Royal Release Salmones takes 10 years to grow from tobacco seed to finished product and is sold in boxes of 10 for $1,500.

21. Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2 Reserva Cosecha 2012

Most Expensive Cigars - Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No 2 Reserva Cosecha 2012

Price/Stick: $181

The Epicure No. 2 is one of Hoyo de Monterrey’s signature cigars.

In 2016, Habanos SA announced the release of the No. 2 Reserva Cosecha 2012.

This blend only uses tobacco leaves from 2012, aged for a minimum of three years.

With just 5000 boxes of 20 cigars produced, this cigar is bound to increase in value with time.

20. Hoyo de Monterrey Double Coronas Gran Reserva Cosecha 2013

Most Expensive Cigars - Hoyo de Monterrey Double Coronas Gran Reserva Cosecha 2013

Price/Stick: $200

Here we have another Hoyo de Monterrey ‘Reserva’ release, the Double Coronas Gran Reserva Cosecha 2013.

Typically, Gran Reserva lines are more sought after than regular Reserva series, due to the difference in tobacco aging.

Reserva cigar blends use tobacco leaves that are aged for a minimum of three years.

Whereas Gran Reserva blends use tobacco leaves aged for a minimum of 5 years.

Gran Reservas are also produced with only 15 sticks per box, instead of the usual 20.

19. Cohiba Siglo De Oro (Year of the Rabbit)

Most Expensive Cigars - Cohiba Siglo De Oro

Price/Stick: $250

In 2023, Cohiba announced the release of the Siglo De Oro, to commemorate both the Chinese ‘Year of the Rabbit’, and also the 30th anniversary of the Siglo series.

Naturally, people across China, Hong Kong, and various other countries in Asia were the first to see these cigars unveiled.

Only 18,888 boxes of the Siglo De Oro will be produced.

That number might sound oddly specific, and it is indeed no coincidence, as the number 8 is lucky in Chinese culture.

The Siglo De Oro is a 54 ring gauge, 4 1/2 inch long cigar, sold in boxes of 18.

  18. H. Upmann Sir Winston Gran Reserva Cosecha 2011

Most Expensive Cigars - H. Upmann Sir Winston Gran Reserva Cosecha 2011

Price/Stick: $260

H. Upmann is one of the oldest cigar brands in the world, with history going all the way back to 1843.

The Sir Winston Gran Reserva Cosecha is of course named after the legendary Sir Winston Churchill , who was known not only for being one of the most important prime ministers in British history; but also for his love of cigars.

The Gran Reserve line was launched by H. Upmann in 2009, and in 2011 the Sir Winston edition was released.

Just 5000 boxes of 15 cigars were produced, for a total of 75,000 cigars.

17. Partagas Serie E No.1 Colección Habanos 2013

Price/stick: $280.

The Serie E No. 1 Colección Habanos 2013 from Partagas appears 18th on our list of the most expensive cigars.

With this particular cigar now being over 10 years old, its price has risen heavily.

You can still find this cigar for sale in the USA for roughly $280 per stick, however, prices do vary.

16. Hoyo De Monterrey Maravillas Collection 2015

Price/stick: $290.

The most expensive Hoyo de Monterrey cigar is the Maravillas Collection 2015.

There were just 2000 boxes of 20 cigars produced, amounting to a total of 40,000 cigars.

Given the smaller production number in comparison to the other Hoyo de Monterrey’s featured on this list, you can expect to pay $290/stick for this cigar.

15. Cohiba Behike Series

Most Expensive Cigars - Cohiba Behike

Price/Stick $300

Cohiba Behikes are one of the most popular and sought-after cigars in the world.

Behike cigars are known for their full-strength flavor and quality, provided you can get your hands on the authentic product.

They’re sold in three different ring gauges: 52, 54, and 56.

These sizes are represented in their names respectively: Behike 52, Behike 54, and Behike 56.

The Cohiba Behike cigars are sold in 10-count boxes and increase in price depending on their size.

14. Oliva Serie V Roaring Twenties Super Limited Edition

Most Expensive Cigars - Oliva Serie V Roaring Twenties Super Limited Edition

Oliva Cigar Co. are well known for producing cigars that provide a great smoking experience for a great value.

However, in 2023 they decided to do something a little different.

The most popular line of Oliva cigars is the ‘Series V’, and last year they announced a new Series V Roaring Twenties Super Limited Edition.

When we take a look at the average price of an Oliva cigar, we can see a price of around $10, so what’s different?

The packaging is the most notable difference, with the Roaring Twenties SLE cigars being placed in boxes produced by Daniel Marshall.

Half of the cigars (the top layer) are also covered in gold foil.

In addition, there will only ever be 300 boxes created, for a total of 3000 cigars.

13. Trinidad Casilda Coleccion Habanos 2019

Price/stick: $370.

As you may have already noticed, Habanos limited edition collections can become incredibly expensive.

The Trinidad Casilda 2019 is another edition within the Coleccion Habanos with only 3000 boxes being produced.

This cigar once again features the traditional book-shaped box packaging as with any ‘Coleccion Habanos’ release.

Getting your hands on a single stick could cost up to $370.

12. Daniel Marshall 24KT Golden Gigante

Most Expensive Cigars - Daniel Marshall 24KT Gold Cigar

Price/Stick: $395

Continuing both the obsession with gold and also the story of Daniel Marshall brings us to the next cigar on our list.

For those who are unaware of Daniel Marshall ; he’s a well-known figure within the cigar industry for his work with manufacturing custom humidors.

In 2011, Marshall decided to create a 24KT gold cigar for his friend’s 64th birthday. 

Marshall then produced a limited run of the cigar which would be packaged in a custom-signed travel humidor.

The 24kt cigar comes in two sizes, Torpedo and Gigante, with the Gigante size being the more expensive of the two.

Its base is that of the DM2 cigar, also sold by Daniel Marshall, which is rolled and sold to him by the Plasencia factory.

Daniel then covers the cigar with a thin layer of gold leaf from Italy.

  11. Montecristo Gran Piramides Limited Edition 2017

Most Expensive Cigars - Montecristo Gran Piramides 2017

Price/Stick: $400 

Montecristo is one of the most popular cigar brands in the world, and one of their most expensive cigars is the Gran Piramides Limited Edition from 2017.

The Gran Piramides are part of the ‘Coleccion Habanos’, which come packaged in a box that’s shaped to look like a book.

At its core, the Gran Piramides are a Montecristo No. 2 that has been increased in size for this limited collection.

This cigar has a length of 6.25 inches and a ring gauge of 57, while Montecristo No. 2’s are a 52 ring gauge, and slightly shorter in length.

Only 2000 boxes of the Gran Piramides 2017 were produced by Habanos SA.

10. Partagas Lusitanias Gran Reserva Cosecha 2007

Most Expensive Cigars - Partagas Lusitanias Gran Reserva Cosecha 2007

Price/Stick: $430

Continuing with another Habanos SA-produced cigar, the 2007 Gran Reserva Lusitanias from Partagas is our 11th most expensive cigar.

Just 5000 boxes of 15 cigars were produced, resulting in a total count of 75,000 cigars.

The Gran Reserve Cosecha 2007 can still be found for sale, but given its age, you might have to shell out more than you wish to.

9. Cohiba Talisman Edicion Limitada 2017

Most Expensive Cigars - Cohiba Talisman Edicion Limitada 2017

Price/Stick: $450

When it was originally released, the Cohiba Talisman EL 2017 cost just $547 for a box of 10.

Since their release, the price has risen rapidly year over year.

The cigars were produced at the world-famous El Laguito factory in Havana, Cuba.

At the time of writing this article, you’d be lucky to find a single stick for under $450.

8. Cohiba 55 Aniversario Edicion Limitada 2021

Most Expensive Cigars - Cohiba 55 Aniversario Edicion Limitada 2021

Price/Stick: $500

While not the most expensive release from Cohiba in the year 2021, the next entry on this list was certainly an important one.

The 55 Anniversario Edicion Limitada 2021 marked the 55th anniversary of Cohiba.

As the name suggests, the cigar was indeed a limited edition, and difficult to get a hold of.

The cigar was released in 10-count boxes, costing roughly $5000/box.

7. Davidoff Oro Blanco

Most Expensive Cigars - Davidoff Oro Blanco

Price/Stick: $600

Davidoff claims that the Oro Blanco is the most exceptional cigar they’ve ever created.

The Oro Blanco is a 6-inch, 54 ring gauge, toro-shaped cigar, with an all-Dominican wrapper, binder, and filler

So why does it cost $600 per cigar?

One of the main reasons for its high cost is due to Davidoff’s aging process.

The Oro Blanco, which translates to “White Gold”, is made with tobacco leaves grown in areas with some of the richest soil across the entire Dominican Republic.

The leaves are then aged for 12 years before the cigar is rolled; a task completed only by Davidoff’s most experienced rollers (15+ years of experience).

After one additional year of aging, the single cigar is then reviewed, approved, and placed into a custom box.

6. Mayan Sicars

Price/stick: $633.

At the beginning of this article, we mentioned a specific auction involving a box of 800 cigars.

In 2012, a large crate of Mayan cigars, expected to be more than 600 years old, was discovered in Guatemala.

It’s important to mention that the most reliable source of this information mentions the sale of all 800 cigars for a total of $507,000, which would put the price/stick at $633.

The cigars were buried deep below the surface in sealed clay pots, and discovered by an archeologist team from Tampa University.

Who paid the $507,000? A man named Gary Liotta, owner of the Santiago Cigar Factory in New York.

5. Gurkha His Majesty’s Reserve

Most Expensive Cigars - Gurkha His Majesties Reserve

Price/Stick: $750

On the sixth spot, we have Gurkha His Majesty’s Reserve cigar.

It’s made each year, and if you’re a cigar enthusiast, you will need to preorder them a few years beforehand. 

The total size of each cigar is 7-5 x 52 inches. The Connecticut Maduro wrapper comes with a Dominican binder and filler that is aged for 12 years.

The filler is infused with Louis XIII cognac, which gives it an amazing aroma.

This cigar is very rare and special, and the cognac has been known for selling only to dignitaries worldwide. 

A total of 75 boxes are being made every year. The incredible aroma, as well as the taste of the cigar, will be something that you will be so impressed with that you will never forget. 

4. Cohiba Ideales Coleccion 2021

Most Expensive Cigars - Cohiba Ideales Limited Edition 2021

Price/Stick: $1100

As the name suggests, this Cohiba cigar was released in 2021, measuring almost 7 inches in length, with a 56 ring gauge.

The Ideales Coleccion 2021 is limited to just 3000 boxes of 20 cigars, totaling 60,000 sticks.

The box is manufactured to look like a book.

Cohiba’s Ideales Coleccion 2021 is the last cigar to feature on this list that isn’t either covered in gold leaf and crystals or nearly 20 years old.

Which makes it the most expensive plain cigar that can still be purchased today.

3. Gurkha Black Dragon (2006 Edition)

Price/stick: $1,150.

The Gurkha Black Dragon is a cigar that you can still buy and smoke newer versions of to this day, but the original 2006 edition is a rare find.

The OG boxes were handmade using camel bone and were limited to just 5 boxes of 100 cigars.

Those who have smoked the original Black Dragon from 2006, and the newer editions seem to conclude that the taste is more or less the same.

Although the 2006 first edition of the Gurkha Black Dragon cost around $1,150, given how limited it was at the time; the current version of this cigar can be added to your collection for just $40/stick.

2. King of Denmark Cigar

Price/stick: $4,500.

The King of Denmark cigar is produced by Royal Danish and only 30 sticks are rolled per day.

Buyers can customize the cigar with both 24KT gold leaf and Swarovski crystals. 

They’re also able to have their name inscribed on the cigar.

Whilst this cigar doesn’t have to cost you thousands, it can reach up to $4,500/stick depending on the customization.

1. Gurkha Royal Courtesan

Most Expensive Cigars - Gurkha Royal Courtesan

Price/Stick: $1.36 Million

The most expensive cigar in the world is the Gurkha Royal Courtesan cigar.

The Royal Courtesan is worth a ridiculous $1.36 million per stick.

One of the most interesting things here is that Gurkha are not known for their quality. 

In fact, Gurkha’s quality control is often a common problem reported by fellow cigar aficionados.

This begs the question: why does this cigar cost so much more money than anything else on the list before it?

Let’s get into the details of the Royal Courtesan:

  • The cigar’s filler is infused with Remy Martin’s Louis XIII cognac.
  • It’s hand-rolled by a select few skilled rollers, who are blindfolded.
  • The band of the cigar is covered in 5-carat diamonds.
  • Rare Himalayan tobacco leaves are used for the wrapper.
  • The wrapper is also covered in a layer of 24KT gold leaf.
  • Personal delivery to the owner by a messenger

Notable Mentions

That concludes our main list of the 25 most expensive cigars in the world.

There are, however, a few entries we’d like to mention.

Although these weren’t included in the main list, they’re worth mentioning to any fellow cigar aficionado.

Regius Double Corona Cigar

Price: $52,000.

We decided to leave out the Regius Double Corona from our main list as the cigar itself is not the main reason for the high price.

In 2013, Regius Cigars developed their Double Corona cigar, which is produced in Nicaragua.

However, the main attraction was not actually the cigar itself, but what was included with the purchase.

The buyer of the cigar would be flown first class out to Regius headquarters in Nicaragua, where they would be given a private tour of the factory.

They would also be allowed to create their own cigar blend, and be given 1000 sticks of said blend to take home with them.

Gran Habano #5 El Gigante

Price: $185,000.

Technically this cigar does have a clear price/stick, selling for $185,000 in 2013.

However, it’s probably worth mentioning that the cigar is 19 feet long, 3 feet thick, and weighs over 600 pounds.

Here are some interesting facts about the Gran Habano #5 El Gigante:

  • Despite its size, it can be smoked by multiple people at the same time.
  • Made with 1,600 pounds of tobacco.
  • Equivalent to smoking 25,000 cigars
  • Contains 15,000 wrapper leaves
  • Has a ring gauge of 1920
  • Weighs 2,500 pounds with the wooden case

We decided to separate the El Gigante from our main list of expensive cigars, but the story itself is worth mentioning.

If you enjoyed this list, don’t forget to check out our other most expensive lists:

  • The Most Expensive Vodkas
  • The Most Expensive Alcoholic Drinks
  • The Most Expensive Cigarettes
  • The Most Expensive Bourbons
  • The Most Expensive Tequila

Here’s a quick recap of the 25 most expensive cigars in the world, per stick:

  • Gurkha Royal Courtesan
  • King of Denmark
  • Gurkha Black Dragon (2006 Edition)
  • Cohiba Ideales Coleccion 2021
  • Gurkha His Majesty’s Reserve
  • Mayan Sicars
  • Davidoff Oro Blanco
  • Cohiba 55 Aniversario Edicion Limitada 2021
  • Cohiba Talisman Edicion Limitada 2017
  • Partagas Lusitanias Gran Reserva Cosecha 2007
  • Montecristo Gran Piramides Limited Edition 2017
  • Daniel Marshall 24KT Golden Gigante
  • Trinidad Casilda Coleccion Habanos 2019
  • Oliva Serie V Roaring Twenties Super Limited Edition
  • Cohiba Behike Series
  • Hoyo De Monterrey Maravillas Collection 2015
  • Partagas Serie E No.1 Colección Habanos 2013
  • H. Upmann Sir Winston Gran Reserva Cosecha 2011
  • Cohiba Siglo De Oro (Year of the Rabbit)
  • Hoyo de Monterrey Double Coronas Gran Reserva Cosecha 2013
  • Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2 Reserva Cosecha 2012
  • Davidoff Royal Release Salamones
  • Cohiba Spectre 2023
  • Arturo Fuente Opus X 20th Anniversary
  • El Septimo The Zaya Collection (Mirifico Sapphire)

Are there any cigars we’ve missed from this list? Leave a comment below.

The 10 most expensive countries to live in worldwide.

The Most Expensive Countries to Live in

Which are the most expensive countries to live in worldwide? Hold tight, as you’re about to find out.

If you’ve dreamed about moving abroad and starting life afresh in a new country, then read through this list before you do, as you might be shocked to find out just how expensive some of these lesser-known countries are. 

We’ve put together this list based on accommodation and living expenses for a single person living in the capital city of each country, and according to population. 

Here’s a list of the 10 most expensive countries to live in worldwide…

The list of countries and figures mentioned below have been compiled from various sources around the web, such as World Population Review & Nomad List .

These are the 10 most expensive countries to live in worldwide:

10. Barbados – $2,061

Most Expensive Countries - Barbados

Kicking off our list of the 10 most expensive countries to live in worldwide, is Barbados. 

Barbados is a sovereign island nation in the Lesser Antilles of the West Indies, which is the Caribbean region of North America. 

It covers approximately 349km² and is 23 kilometres wide and 34 kilometres long, with a total population of 285,719 people. 

Barbados is the fourth-most densely populated country in the Americas and, it’s capital city, Bridgetown, has approximately 110,000 people living in it. 

To rent a one-bedroom studio apartment in Bridgetown, you’re looking at spending around $500 a month, or $100 a night in an Airbnb. 

A basic meal out will cost you no less than $13. A beer is around $6.50 and coffee is approximately $5.00 depending on where you go. 

9. Japan – $2,612

Most Expensive Countries - Japan

The ninth most expensive country to live in worldwide is Japan. 

Japan is an archipelago island nation in South-East Asia, made up of 6,852 islands, with a current total population of 126.8 million people. 

Of the 6,582 islands, the four largest islands account for the majority of inhabitants, as roughly 97% Japans population live on the four islands. 

Japan has many major cities, like Osaka, Yokohoma, Nagoya and Sapporo, which are all populated by more than 2 million people. 

However, Tokyo, Japans Capital City and the largest city in Japan, has an approximate population of 37 million people. 

To rent a one-bedroom studio apartment in Tokyo, you’re looking at spending in the region of $1,370 a month, or $111 a night in an Airbnb. 

Eating out varies in price, but as an average for one person, you should be looking at spending around $15.00 for a basic meal and around $6.00 for a beer.

Coffee is also pretty reasonable, considering how expensive Tokyo is, at $2.81 a cup. 

8. Norway – $2,659

Most Expensive Countries - Norway

Located in Northern Europe, Norway is a Scandinavian country with a total population of 5.3 million people. 

Norway shares its borders with Sweden, Russia and Finland, and has a total landmass of 385,203 km².

It’s only the 171st most densely populated country on earth, with roughly 14 people for every square kilometre. 

Rent is expensive in Norway’s capital, so renting a one-bedroom studio apartment in Oslo, will set you back around $1,193 a month, or $85 a night in an Airbnb. 

You won’t have much change left from $15 when buying a meal out, and a beer will set you back around $9.11.

7. The Bahamas – $2,704

Most Expensive Countries - The Bahamas

The next most expensive country in the world to live in is The Bahamas. 

Made up of over 700 islands, the Bahamas has an approximate population of 389,482 million people living across its 13,943km² landmass. 

The largest city in the Bahamas is Nassau, with a total population of 255,000. 

If you’re thinking about visiting the Bahamas, then you should budget approximately $950 a month for a one-bedroom studio apartment in the city, or $149 a night for an Airbnb. 

You’ll need to take at least $50-$100 with you when you go out for a meal and some drinks, as a basic meal costs around $15-$20 and a beer will cost you around $2.50. 

Coffee is a little on the expensive side, at around $5 each. 

6. Luxembourg – $2,751

Most Expensive Countries - Luxembourg

One of the smallest countries on our list, Luxembourg, is also one of the smallest sovereign nations on the planet, and it won’t leave you with a lot of wiggle room when it comes to your monthly expenses. 

Luxembourg is a landlocked country, located in western Europe, and has an estimated population of 620,319 people. 

Its population is small compared to other countries on the list, however, it has roughly 207 people per square kilometre, making it the 67th most densely populated country on earth. 

When you arrive in Luxembourg City, you can expect to pay around $1,322 per month for a one-bedroom studio apartment, or $80 a night in an Airbnb. 

Luxembourg seems like it’s slightly more expensive than the Bahamas when it comes to luxuries like beer and coffee, as one beer will cost you around $9 and coffee will set you back $6. 

Eating a basic meal out will cost between $17-$25 for one person depending on what you order. 

5. Iceland – $2,802

Most Expensive Countries - Iceland

Coming in at number five on our list of the most expensive countries in the world is Iceland. 

Iceland is located between the North and Atlantic Oceans and has a total surface area of 103,001 square kilometres. 

However, Iceland’s population of 339,949 people, remains relatively low in comparison to others on our list as its harsh geographical landscape proves difficult to live in for many, at times. 

As a result, Iceland has the lowest population density of any European country, at just 3 people per kilometre. 

Staying in Iceland will cost you approximately $1,236 a month for a one-bedroom studio apartment in the capital city of Reykjavik, or $128 a night in an Airbnb.  

Whilst you’re there, eating out will cost you around $12 for a basic meal, $8 for a beer and $2.15 for a cup of coffee. 

4. Denmark – $3,312

Most Expensive Countries - Denmark

The southernmost Nordic country in Northern Europe, Denmark, is the fourth most expensive country to live in worldwide. 

Denmark, bordered by Germany, Sweden and Norway has a total current population of 5.7 million people. 

The Scandinavian countries capital city is Copenhagen, which has an urban population of 1.2 million people, and a metropolitan population of 1.99 million.  

Known as one of the happiest places to live on earth, Copenhagen is also a very expensive city to live in.

For a one-bedroom studio apartment, you’re looking at $1,917 a month, or $96 a night in an Airbnb. 

Eating out will cost you approximately $18 per person and beers and coffee are anyway between $5.50-$6.50 a pop!

3. Switzerland – $3,162

Most Expensive Countries - Switzerland

Switzerland is the third most expensive country to live in worldwide. 

With more than 8.6 million people living across, 41,285 square kilometres, Switzerland is the 95th most populated country in the world, and the 135th largest country in terms of the total landmass. 

Switzerland has a number of beautiful cities to live in, like it’s capital, Bern, and it’s the largest city, Zurich. 

Bern has approximately 133,000 people living there and accommodation for a month in Bern, for one person, will cost in the region of $1,366, or $86 a night in an Airbnb. 

A meal out will cost you approximately $15-$20, with an additional beer costing around $6.00 and coffee costing around $5.00 a cup. 

2. Cayman Islands – $3,387

Most Expensive Countries - Cayman Islands

The Cayman Islands is the second most populated British overseas territory in the world, just behind Bermuda.

It is located in the western end of the Caribbean sea and has a total current population of approximately 63,000 people. 

It’s made up of a number of islands like Grand Cayman, Little Cayman and Cayman Brac. 

The Cayman Islands are well known for housing offshore companies, and it’s believed that there are over 100,000 companies registered in the Cayman Islands. 

If you’re considering doing business in George Town, the capital city of the Cayman Islands, then a one-bedroom studio apartment will cost you around $1,924 a month or $83 a night in an Airbnb. 

Food and drink on the island are where you might spend a lot of your money.

A basic meal out will cost you at least $20-$30, with beer costing around $8.00 and coffee costing around $7 a cup. 

1. Bermuda – $5,011  

Most Expensive Countries - Bermuda

At over $5,000 a month for accommodation and living expenses, Bermuda is the most expensive place to live in worldwide.

Similar to the Cayman Islands, Bermuda is another British territory located in the North Atlantic. 

Bermuda has a total population of approximately 65,000 people living across a total landmass of 20.5 square miles. 

Its capital city, Hamilton, is also Bermudas only incorporated city and has a current population of just over 1,000 people. 

When looking for accommodation in the city, you’re going to need some deep pockets, as a one-bedroom studio apartment will cost you around $2,675 a month, or $212 a night in an Airbnb. 

If you’re a drinker, then get prepared to spend some cash, as one glass of beer will cost you a minimum of $10, and dinner will be around $20-$30 per person. 

Bermuda is the most expensive country to live in worldwide. 

We hope you enjoyed our list of the 10 most expensive countries to live in worldwide.

Well, there you have it, those were some super expensive countries to live in.

Living in those countries might make you think twice about drinking alcohol , on a regular occasion, and make you sharpen the purse strings a bit more.

However, it’s all relative and depends on your disposable income and expenses.

So, if you’re still planning on moving to, or even visiting one of these countries long term, then at least you know what to expect. 

Here’s a quick recap of the 10 most expensive countries to live in worldwide:

  • Bermuda – $5,011
  • Cayman Islands – $3,387
  • Switzerland – $3,162
  • Denmark – $3,312
  • Iceland – $2,802
  • Luxembourg – $2,751
  • The Bahamas – $2,704
  • Japan – $2,612
  • Norway – $2,291
  • Barbados – $2,061

What’s your favourite most expensive country? Leave a comment below.

Latest posts.

Keanu Reeves Net Worth Profile

Keanu Reeves Net Worth

What is Keanu Reeves’ net worth? Introduction Keanu Reeves is a Canadian professional actor with an estimated net worth of...

Emma Stone Net Worth Profile

Emma Stone Net Worth

What is Emma Stone’s net worth? Emma Stone is an American professional actress with an estimated net worth of ....

Chris Evans Net Worth Profile

Chris Evans Net Worth

What is Chris Evans’ net worth? Chris Evans is an American professional actor with an estimated net worth of ....

Harrison Ford Net Worth Profile

Harrison Ford Net Worth

What is Harrison Ford’s net worth? Introduction Harrison Ford is an American professional film producer and actor with an estimated...

Gary Oldman Net Worth Profile

Gary Oldman Net Worth

What is Gary Oldman’s net worth? Introduction Gary Oldman is an English professional actor and filmmaker with an estimated net...

Chris Pratt Net Worth Profile

Chris Pratt Net Worth

What is Chris Pratt’s net worth? Chris Pratt is an American professional actor with an estimated net worth of ....

Denzel Washington Net Worth Profile

Denzel Washington Net Worth

What is Denzel Washington’s net worth? Introduction Denzel Washington is an American professional actor with an estimated net worth of...

Cameron Diaz Net Worth Profile

Cameron Diaz Net Worth

What is Cameron Diaz’s net worth? Cameron Diaz is an American former actress, author, and producer with an estimated net...

Bruce Willis Net Worth Profile

Bruce Willis Net Worth

What is Bruce Willis’ net worth? Introduction Bruce Willis is an American former professional actor and producer with an estimated...

Bradley Cooper Net Worth Profile

Bradley Cooper Net Worth

What is Bradley Cooper’s net worth? Introduction  Bradley Cooper is an American professional actor and filmmaker with an estimated net...

The 25 Richest People in the World

The 30 Richest People in the World

The Richest Rappers in the World 2018

The 50 Richest Rappers in the World

Richest Singers in the World 2018

The 50 Richest Singers in the World

The Richest Actors in the World

The 50 Richest Actors in the World

Richest Athletes in the World

The 50 Richest Athletes in the World

Jeff Bezos Net Worth

Jeff Bezos Net Worth

The Richest DJs in the World

The 50 Richest DJs in the World

Top 10 Most Inspirational Short Stories I’ve Heard

The 10 Most Inspirational Short Stories I’ve Heard

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
  • Ka La’I Wakiki Beach
  • Kalamazoo Grill
  • Raffles Hotels & Resorts
  • Tributary Idaho
  • Sports & Leisure
  • Health & Wellness
  • Best of the Best
  • The Ultimate Gift Guide

9 Stunning Wooden Boats That Blend Classic Design With Modern Tech

These 9 yards are still turning out mahogany boats using hand-crafted methods that started centuries ago. the difference they're using the latest engines and hull designs. call it good wood., kevin koenig, kevin koenig's most recent stories.

  • This 121-Foot Superyacht Is Faster Than Most Boats Half Its Size
  • Maserati’s First Electric Boat Delivers Style and Fun on the Water—We Took It for a Spin
  • This New 101-Foot Superyacht Has an Unusually Large Social Enclave on Its Main Deck
  • Share This Article

These beautiful wooden boats show the diversity of small specialists around the world.

There are few more classic sights in boating than a small mahogany runabout splitting the serene waters of a lake in some picturesque locale—be it northern Italy, Lake Tahoe, or a pristine stretch of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. There is something almost primal about being on board a boat built from the first material humans fashioned roughshod canoes with.

Fortunately, there are multiple yards around the world that are still building wooden boats—but with modern hulls and systems that eliminate the hassles of owning a vintage yacht. Some build classic-inspired designs from the 1920s through the 1960s, while others focus on contemporary hulls, but with wood instead of fiberglass.

These builders will tell you that their material of choice offers the softest ride available, thanks to its natural properties. They will also say that the prestige of owning one of these boats is all but unmatched in the world of boating—wooden boats have long been a favorite of kings and movie stars. When you catch a glimpse of the beautiful brightwork and gleaming mahogany from the dock, you’ll find they clearly have a point.

Here are 9 of our favorite wooden boatbuilders.

Grand Craft, Genoa City, Wisconsin

expensive motorboats

“Our boats are few and far between, so the people who look at our boats often say they resemble a piece of art,” says Patrick Gallagher, president and CEO of Grand Craft Boats. The Wisconsin builder is currently focusing on two different models, the Burnham 26 runabout (opening image) and Winchester 36 commuter (pictured above). “The common denominator among our customers is that they want something that sets them apart from their neighbors without being gaudy or ostentatious,” says Gallagher. “A wooden boat is a way to demonstrate that.”

Boesch, Kilchberg, Switzerland

expensive motorboats

Jakob Boesch built his first boat in the 1890s, and more than a century later, his family continues to merge new technologies with old-world Swiss craftsmanship. Boesch ’s 28-foot 860 has a classically styled mahogany hull with up to 11 layers of wood laid at right angles, sealed with six layers of epoxy and finished with six layers of varnish. Propulsion choices include modern options such as twin 150 kw electric engines for quiet, emissions-free operation or more conventional gas or diesel engines. The runabout’s meticulous craftsmanship disguises a beast of a machine designed for precise handling, tow sports and speed. Equipped with twin 380 hp Ilmor gas engines, the 860 can hit 48 mph.

Spirit, Ipswich, England

expensive motorboats

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. But Geist is much more than a giant sloop. Her eco-conscious owner mandated systems like the first-of-its-kind electric propulsion by Torqeedo—a 100 kw motor fed by BMW lithium-ion battery banks, which recharge while Geist is sailing—while her Rhoades Young interior elevates wood to its maximum potential, showing off sustainably sourced sipo mahogany, teak and walnut in a series of continuously flowing curves. Even her sails are made of recyclable materials.

HackerCraft, Queensbury, NY

expensive motorboats

Founded in 1908, HackerCraft is one of the most prominent names in the wooden-boat world. The builder does series of boats such as its Sport, Sterling, and Racer models and also takes on full-custom jobs. “The build method lends itself to customization,” says Erin Badcock, Hacker Craft’s COO. “We build on a jig so anything is possible. Our main focus is to maintain the timelessness of the boat, but at the same time we have the ability to do custom designs.” For a builder with timelessness in mind, Hacker also has an eye on the future with its fully electric 27 Sport , which has a run time of up to three hours and a 30-knot top end.

Shearline, Morehead City, NC

expensive motorboats

Shearline is one of the cluster of custom sportfish builders centered around North Carolina’s famously rough Oregon Inlet. The builder is not uncommon amongst its peers in that it only turns out one or two boats a year. But the firm stands out among sportfish builders in that it’s still building in wood. Using wood instead of fiberglass is a no brainer. “The strength of a tree is in its ability to bend with the wind,” says Chip King, Shearline’s president. “You come off a wave and wood absorbs the shock, whereas fiberglass transfers it. There’s no comparison between the two materials when you want the softest ride possible.”

StanCraft, Hayden, Idaho

expensive motorboats

From out west comes Idaho’s StanCraft . This 90-year-old brand was founded in 1933 by W. H. “Billy” Young and his son Stanley C. Young. The company has remained within the family, with new boats now built by the third generation. A fourth generation is coming up in the business as well. The builder offers a line of five models, plus full-custom jobs. The boats are notable for the variations seen in its shearlines, which can be straight, broken, or cambered. The company also prides itself on its fit and finish. Each boat, for example, receives 16 coats of varnish, buffed to a mirror shine before delivery.

GarWood Custom Boats, Brant Lake, NY

expensive motorboats

GarWood Custom Boats is headquartered in New York State’s pastoral Adirondack region, where the multitude of freshwater lakes make an ideal playground for a wooden runabout. The builder constructs its boats using richly grained mahogany, with low-profile, retro lines. The first version of the brand, launched by Garfield Arthur Wood in 1922, was famous for its 33-foot Baby Gar runabouts. The most recent ownership of the brand continued with its racing pedigree, turning out boats like the 22- and 27-foot Speedsters, which can pass the 60-mph mark, a redline that holds real weight for lovers of go-fast boats. Combine that with beautiful wood and you have a one-of-a-kind runabout.

Vandam Custom Yachts, Boyne City, Michigan

expensive motorboats

Vandam is a fully custom builder that only creates its wooden boats on commission. “We only build one of each boat,” says Jeremy Pearson, Vandam’s worldwide sales manager. “The people that come to us are usually seasoned and know what they liked in previous boats they owned—the lines, the seats, that kind of stuff. We do a lot of listening to the clients. The concept phase is a lot of fun here.” The Michigan yard has turned out a long list of very different yachts, from the Geromino commuter yacht to the pictured downeast-style vessel, with dozens of other styles in between.

Streblow, Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

expensive motorboats

Streblow has been building handmade wooden boats for 73 years. Each boat is framed using white oak, with a marine plywood bottom and Philippine mahogany for the outer planking. The attention to detail seen aboard these boats has gained an almost cult-like following, with customers often purchasing consecutive Streblows. Part of this loyalty stems from Streblow’s storage facility, a 17,000-square-foot structure that the builder says can extend the lifetime of a wooden boat indefinitely.

Read More On:

  • Wooden boats

More Marine

Four Seasons yachts holiday itineraries

Four Seasons Yachts Wants to Take You to the Caribbean for the Holidays

Inspire Superyacht Concept

This New 454-Foot Gigayacht Concept Comes With a Bonkers Underwater Lounge

Don Johnson in new show Doctor Odyssey.

How Don Johnson Channeled His Love for the Water Into a New TV Series

GX42 Coupe Superyacht

Meet GX Superyachts, a New Shipyard Creating Custom Hybrids Ranging From 78 to 164 Feet

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

Inspire Superyacht Concept

Inspire Superyacht Concept in Photos

GX42 Coupe Superyacht

The GX Superyachts Range in Photos

More from our brands, blackpink’s lisa layers up in an edgy ‘moonlit’ look for global citizen festival 2024 performance, debuts new song, wada seeks suspension for sinner’s failed drug test, songs by adele, bob dylan, green day, many more blocked by youtube in legal dispute, christie’s first 21st century day sale at new hong kong hq sees middling results, the best yoga mats for any practice, according to instructors.

Quantcast

  • A-Z of motor boats: your ultimate guide

Motor boats don't often take centre stage in our magazine, but we're about to change that. This in-depth feature explores the different kinds of motorboats, their manufacturers, how they differ from sailboats, and weighs their pros and cons. We'll help you figure out if a motorboat is the right fit for you, when to best venture out on one, and we'll delve into the requirements and conditions for a skipper's licence. In essence, we're bringing you the complete motorboat rundown. All hail the engine!

Differences to a sailboat

The age-old debate of powerboat versus sailboat is a classic theme in many a nautical conversation. We're not here to pick a side between those who favour sails and those who prefer motors. Instead, our aim is to present you with a balanced view, packing all the necessary facts, insights, and knowledge into one comprehensive discussion.

Draft and bridges

A motorboat's draft is significantly shallower, thanks to the absence of a keel. Furthermore, the lack of a mast means there's no need to worry about the boat's height when it comes to passing under bridges. So from a depth and overhead clearance perspective, you're in safe waters with a motorboat.

YACHTING.COM TIP: If you've never sailed under the renowned Pasman-Ugljan bridge, which has spelled disaster for numerous sailing boats, a motorboat provides the perfect chance!

Space and comfort

Broadly speaking, aside from mega yachts or specialist vessels, motorboats provide more space both below and on deck compared to similarly sized sailboats. They also typically feature multiple deck levels. So you can bask in the sunshine on one deck, and find shelter in the shade on another. Furthermore, on a motorboat, you don't have to fret about a precarious jib or the risk of tripping over winches or ropes. The deck tends to be more open and free from sailing gear, allowing for easier movement and relaxation.

If you have crew members who do not tolerate the heeling of a sailboat well, this concern is completely eliminated with motor boats. Unless you're faced with sizeable waves, the boat is likely to maintain stability and you won't need to worry about any significant tilting. This makes a motorboat a more comfortable choice for those sensitive to the motion of the sea.

You wouldn't find such a load on a motorboat

A leisure sailboat simply can't match the speed of a powerboat. While most sailboats average around 7 knots, motorboats can easily reach 15 to 20 knots. If you enjoy the thrill of speed and the feeling of wind in your hair, a powerboat is the perfect choice for you.

Consumption and costs

On the flip side, with the increased speed comes higher fuel costs. While on a sailboat, you might only need to refuel at the end of your trip or 2-3 times a week at most, resulting in a manageable fuel bill. However, if you're sailing for extended periods each day on a motorboat, you'll find yourself refuelling frequently, at a higher cost, and spending a significant amount of time waiting to fill up the diesel tank.

Level of effort and work

Starting a motorboat is straightforward; turn it on and off you go, cruising wherever you fancy. There's no need to fuss over ropes, the jib, sails, lazy bags, lazy jacks, or the whereabouts of the crank. Unlike on a sailboat where there's always something to keep you occupied, a motorboat offers pure relaxation and peace of mind. If you're seeking a laid-back cruising experience, a powerboat is the way to go.

Sailing direction

As long as there are no big waves and the Bora is not blowing against you, you can sail your motorboat comfortably pretty much anywhere you want. This isn't the case with sailboats, where you might have to cruise or alter your destination if the wind is blowing directly against you. While sailboat enthusiasts often say, "the journey is the destination," powerboat users are more about reaching their destination promptly and without fuss.

What is the difference between a motor boat and a sailboat?

Despite their differences, powerboats and sailboats do share some commonalities, with maintenance being the prime one. Regardless of the type of boat you own, upkeep is crucial. This includes taking care of the sails or engine and ensuring regular servicing. Moreover, marina fees apply uniformly to both. The harbour masters charge based on the length of the boat, irrespective of whether it's a sailboat or a powerboat. The only exception might be a catamaran, which typically incurs a higher fee due to its dual-hulled design, making it wider and potentially occupying the space of two conventional berths.

Disadvantages of motor boats

While motor boats offer numerous advantages, it's important to consider their potential drawbacks as well. Let's take off the rose-tinted glasses and delve into some of the downsides associated with powerboats.

Fuel dependency and non-environmental operation

Unlike a sailboat that can harness the wind as a natural and free power source, a motorboat is completely reliant on diesel fuel. Running out of fuel in the middle of your journey can leave you stranded. Furthermore, this dependence on fossil fuels also means that operating a motorboat has a greater environmental impact compared to sailing.

YACHTING.COM TIP: Speaking of ecology, check out our guide — Green sailing: 11 tips for eco-friendly yachting . 

Less stability in wind

Motorboats lack a significant keel, resulting in reduced stability when faced with waves and strong winds. Consequently, it is advisable to opt for motorboat rentals during the summer season, when occurrences of powerful winds and waves are comparatively infrequent.

Calm and the smell of the sea

The sound of the engine never leaves you during your voyage which can get on people's nerves. Likewise, the typical smell of burning diesel can start to bother you after a while.

Who is a motor boat best suited for?

A motor boat is well-suited for individuals seeking relaxation, tranquillity, and minimal effort. With the simple act of starting the engine, you can swiftly set sail without any additional concerns. Plus, a motor boat is highly recommended for those who desire to explore a wide range of places, including beaches and other scenic locations. It is particularly advantageous for covering long distances between islands and the mainland within the typical timeframe of a one or two-week vacation. Motor yachts are also a favourable choice for yachters who enjoy fishing, as they provide a comfortable and convenient means of transportation for navigating to different areas and indulging in fishing activities.

YACHTING.COM TIP: Find out what else you can do while sailing in our article — Top 12 fun activities to do on a sailing holiday .

Fishing is an great addition to a boating holiday.

For nature lovers seeking harmony and a closer connection to the natural environment, a sailboat is more preferable than a motorboat. Sailboats provide a serene atmosphere and allow for a deeper appreciation of nature. Additionally, if the aim is to foster teamwork and engage in shared experiences, a sailboat offers more opportunities as it involves handling ropes and sails.  But if you want to relax with a bunch of friends, there's nothing better than a powerboat.

Motor boat season

Unlike sailing boats that typically operate in Europe from April to November, motor boats have a more limited season. The majority of motor cruising occurs between June and September, with peak activity in June and July. Other times of the year, motor yachts are less commonly seen at sea. This is because before and after this season, conditions tend to be windier and the sea becomes cooler, which is more appealing to racers on sailing yachts rather than those seeking a tranquillity on a motorboat, particularly in destinations like Croatia.

YACHTING.COM TIP: What winds and weather will you encounter in the Mediterranean over summer? Check out our guide — The 7 most common winds you'll find in the Mediterranean . 

Motor boat licence

The licence needed to operate a motor boat depends on two criteria — the engine power and the area where you will be boating (whether sea or inland waters). If you want to cruise on a motor boat with an engine power of  less than 4kW , then you don't need a licence. This applies to houseboats or small boats, for example. You can sail a boat with a 4kW to 20kW  engine on inland waters with a VMP licence, but for the sea you'll need an international skipper's licence just as for a sailing boat and in some countries (such as Croatia), a radio licence. With engine power  above 20kW , for inland sailing and on the sea, you will need a certificate of engine experience for inland sailing in addition to the VMP.

YACHTING.COM TIP: Still hesitating about getting your skipper's licence? Take a look at our 5 reasons to take a skipper's course . Then check out our sailing courses and you'll soon be sailing the seas!

How to choose a motor boat?

Motor boats have a slightly different interior layout than sailboats. The smaller ones often have only one or two cabins and it is automatically assumed that the other couple sleeps in the saloon, often in the bow. Check before you make your final booking that you will have plenty of privacy. Small motor boats are designed for a couple or small family rather than several people who don't know each other.

Route planning

When choosing a boat, take note of how much the boat consumes. You may find that the fuel will cost you the same amount of money as the charter itself in a week's sailing. Plan your itinerary in advance so you know what to expect.

YACHTING.COM TIP: Want to enjoy your cruise to the fullest and without a care in the world? Try hiring a professional skipper or hostess for your yacht. They'll take care of running the boat, cleaning and cooking, leaving you to relax and spend time with your loved ones. Just ask our sales team.

Highly renowned motor boat brands in the charter industry

Here we have picked out the most popular types of motor boats from our search portal.

Probably the most infamous brand of motorboats is Merry Fisher. The Merry Fisher 795 models are among the best sellers and the Merry Fisher 895 is a common sight cruising the coastline of Croatia. Another sought-after model is the Antares 9 OB , which is generously equipped for a comfortable boating holiday, but if you're after something bigger, the Antares 11 Fly is a great choice. The Greenline 33 or its larger sibling, the Greenline 39 , are also fantastic options.

The popular Antares 9 OB model.

Other types of motor boats

Every motor boat is unique, and there can be a wide range of vessels categorized under the name "motor boat." Let's explore some intriguing and lesser-known motor boats that have distinctive features and stand out from the norm.

Small motorboat

Charter services also offer the option to rent small motor boats, which are perfect for day trips to secluded beaches, nearby islands, or bays that are inaccessible by foot. These boats are typically compact and may not have cabins, making them suitable for short excursions. They are particularly recommended for families who have rented an apartment by the sea and wish to explore the surrounding areas by water. In many cases, these small motor boats are equipped with relatively low-powered engines, and in several countries, you may not even require a skipper's license to operate them. We recommend, for example, the Zodiac Madline 2 or the slightly larger Four Winns H210 .

You can also rent a smaller boat.

Few people can buy a superyacht. And although many more people can rent one, it is still quite expensive. A superyacht or megayacht is considered to be a boat longer than 80 feet but you'll have to hire a professional skipper as only a handful of skippers have a licence for a boat of this length. For example, we offer the superyacht Azimut Grande 27 or MY Custom Line 52 m . These can cost up to 100,000 euros to hire for a week, but the price often includes a crew to look after the boat (including the professional skipper).

Superyacht Azimut Grande 27

The main difference from the motor boats we rent at sea is that houseboats sail on freshwater streams and are designed for exploring rivers, canals, lakes, ponds, and dams. Although houseboats generally have less powerful engines, this feature often allows them to be rented without a license in most destinations. It's important to note that these houseboats are far from mundane, offering a unique and enjoyable holiday experience on calm waters. Check out these breathtaking destinations you can explore on a houseboat.

YACHTING.COM TIP: Never been on a houseboat?  Take a look at our our guide —   First time on a houseboat: 25 things you need to know!

This is what one of the most popular houseboats, the Nicols Estivale Sixto Prestige, looks like.

Power catamaran

Recently, motor catamarans or power catamarans have become more and more popular. They combine the advantages of a catamaran (two hulls, stability, space, nets to lie on,...) while offering the speed, carefree and comfort of a motor boat. Never driven a catamaran? Check out our article — First time on a catamaran: what you need to know

Body of a two-hulled power catamaran.

YACHTING.COM TIP: Wondering what are all the types of boat you can charter? You will be surprised how many there are. Check out the article —  Boats for rent: what types of boats do charter companies offer?

How to operate a motor boat?

If you have sailing experience, driving a powerboat will seem like something very simple. You don't have to worry about ropes, sails, vignettes, masts or a flying jib. You simply start the boat and cruise wherever you want. Then it's the same as mooring with a sailboat.

One important aspect to be aware of when operating a motor boat is the  engine trim . Engine trim refers to the adjustment of the angle between the propeller and the bottom of the boat. Ideally, the propeller should be positioned vertically downward. As a motor boat gains speed, the bow of the boat may lift, causing the propeller to partially submerge. In such cases, it is the responsibility of the captain to intervene and adjust the engine trim to ensure that the propeller is aligned vertically and not at any angle other than 90 degrees to the water surface. This adjustment is crucial to prevent the boat from jumping or unnecessarily impacting the water with the bow. By maintaining the correct trim, the boat can navigate efficiently and provide a comfortable sailing experience for all on board.

YACHTING.COM TIP: Do you know how to operate the outboard motor on a dinghy? Read our article — Dinghy and outboard motor: what you need to know .

Where to sail with a motor boat?

We've selected 3 regions where you can enjoy a fantastic time with a motorboat and take advantage of its superior speed.

Vineyards and islands off Hvar

Start your journey from Split and make your way to the enchanting island of Solta or the sun-soaked Brac. For a glimpse of Croatia's renowned beaches, don't miss out on visiting Zlatni Rat. Proceed to the captivating island of Hvar, where we suggest exploring either the lively town of Hvar itself, the more serene town of Stari Grad, or the authentically charming Vrboska. Indulge in an overnight stay at a tranquil cove on the island of Ščedro, where you can delight in snorkeling alongside majestic clams. Depending on your available time and preferences, continue your voyage to the island of Vis and discover the picturesque village of Komiza, where you can experience the novelty of standing on a buoy or by the pier. During the day, take a trip to the island of Bisevo, home to the famed Blue Spila (blue cave).

Ionian Sea (and turtles!)

Rent a boat on the Greek island of Corfu. Upon taking over the boat on Saturday, take a leisurely stroll to the charming capital, Kerkyra, where you'll be enchanted by its delightful streets and atmosphere. Next, set sail south towards the island of Paxos, renowned for its breathtaking bays. During the day, make sure to indulge in a refreshing swim in Lefkada, a destination in the western part that boasts stunning beaches reminiscent of the Caribbean. Consider spending the night in the lively bay of Vasiliki, known for its vibrant nightlife and one of Greece's most famous kebab joints. The following day, continue your journey to Kefalonia and then proceed onwards to Zakynthos, famously known as the "island of turtles." If possible, sail as far south as you can towards Zakynthos, maximizing your exploration of this captivating destination.

Italian temperament

Experience the enchanting Bay of Naples, beginning in Baiae and venturing to Ischia, where you can navigate its waters at your leisure. Along the way, explore the quaint islet of Procida. Consider Ponza as an alternative to the bustling island of Capri. If time permits, visit the renowned Positano. Carry on to the breathtaking town of Amalfi, with its cliffside houses. Above all, indulge in la dolce vita.

Whether it's a motorboat or a sailboat, I'll find you the perfect choice. Give me a call.

Denisa Kliner Nguyenová

Denisa Kliner Nguyenová

Faq motor boats.

The 10 Most Expensive Motorboats

3

Your changes have been saved

Email is sent

Email has already been sent

Please verify your email address.

You’ve reached your account maximum for followed topics.

Tori Spelling Admits She’s Thinking Of Joining OnlyFans Amid Money Woes

Kate middleton’s brother was offered $1 million movie role, rolling in the deep pockets: the inside scoop on adele's net worth, quick links, 10. bayliner 742 cuddy: $83,000, 9. bayliner 285 cruiser: $110,000, 8. bayliner 335: $199,000, 7. atlantis 42: $362,500, 6. birchwood 380: $380,000, 5. princess 56: $390,000, 4. fairline targa 52: $455,000, 3. f series, f450: $510,000, 2. bayliner 5788: $549,000, 1. sunseeker manhattan 50: $635,000.

It is one of the finest luxury items that you are ever likely to possess, but a motorboat can enable you to sail the seven seas with seamless ease. There is certainly no better feeling than being at one with the calming blue waters of the ocean as you set sail in your own lavish vessel.

For many, they are certainly boy’s toys as the saying goes. However, in spite of the recent economic climate which has hit many people hard, there is still great interest in buying a motorboat. If you intend to purchase one, there are a number of different factors you should take into consideration. In the first instance size, as they say, really does matter. It is vitally important to have an understanding about how long you really want it to be and make sure you have a checklist to narrow down your actual requirements.

In addition to this, the engine is of course vital, while the quality interiors are also not to be underestimated. Dealers and manufacturers will often fight tooth and nail in order to win your custom but it’s important to have a check list of your top priorities.

From built in satellite navigation and iPod docks to modern teak flooring, here are some of the most expensive motorboats which are certain to cause a splash.

Launched in 2014 with an arctic white finish, the Bayliner 742 is priced at around $80,000. You can choose from a wide variety of add ons such as a bimini top that benefits from a boot and canvas package and a foredeck sun pad. There is plenty of fine teak throughout this particular boat and Hydraulic Trim Tabs. For the ultimate in safety you can take advantage of an electric anchor winch.

Measuring more than 28 feet in length, the Bayliner 285 is a real sport number that offers sleek lines and a smooth finish. In fact it will give you everything to ensure you sail with the utmost confidence. It offers a premium driving seat with enough space to sleep up to six people. Other functions include skylights and several portholes which ensure it is an extremely light and airy cabin.

Measuring more than an impressive 32 feet, you will find plenty of space in the high quality Bayliner 335. This is the biggest model from their stable and provides two generous cabins. On the other hand, there is lots of storage thanks to the aft cabin and ample seats. This can be transformed into a wet bar which provides lots of entertaining opportunities. You can also find the latest cutting edge equipment on board, a GPS plotter and a bow thruster to cap it all off.

This superior motorboat comes in at more than $360,000. The striking design really elevates this motorboat and has lots of space to entertain. Furthermore, it has great performance and not one but two separate living areas. It has not one but two Volvo Penta D6-330hp diesel powered engines, a generator made from mase, air conditioning unit and a host of modern conveniences. This features a plasma television which comes with a CD player, leather sofas and a wealth of luxurious materials. As far as navigational tools are concerned, the Atlantis 42 provides a Raymarine radar and fishfinder a dedicated high ranging GPS plotter and a Raymarine auto pilot. If you want to make an impression then the Atlantis 42 is certainly not to be underestimated.

Boasting a Volvo Penta engine management computer system, the Birchwood 380 offers a 40 litre water heater and so much more. Priced at $380,000, you can enjoy an impressive speaker as well as sub-woofer system, navigation lights and luxury teak flooring which completes the overall appearance. Relax and unwind in the saloon style lounge which has cream leather banquettes and cherry wood cabinets, IPod stereo and CD player.

One of the finest hull structures around, the Princess 56 is a great all-rounder. Suitable for a larger family there are lots of hidden extras that you can expect to find inside. It also benefits from two Volvo Penta engines with more than 600 horsepower. Other functions for around $400,000 include a 7.5kW generator, a remote control searchlight for that added bit of security, a beautiful cockpit made from teak and two cabins with en suite facilities.

The Fairline Targa 52 is another strong contender on the nautical hot list. You can have the chance to enjoy what is known as Easydock joystick and remote control, which enables much easier berthing. There is also a dedicated iPhone app that allows you to be in control of everything from the battery charger to the lighting. There is an open plan living area and lots of high end cherry wood cabinets which come fully equipped with fitted with an in house entertainment system. This includes a wall mounted television and a DVD player.

As far as size is concerned you cannot go wrong with the F Series F450. It provides plenty of space and lots of opportunities for entertaining. Priced at more than half a million dollars, you can dine outdoors with seating up to six guests. Meanwhile there is also a sunbathing deck and an imposing interior that just screams luxury. Admire the premium wood finishes and furnishings that make you feel right at home.

With a full electronic package system as well as cable television, the Bayliner 5788 is pure indulgence. Immaculate throughout, this motorboat comes complete with a fully integrated camera system not to mention stainless appliances including a dishwasher. Other highlights feature a tub in the master bedroom and clean lines for an aesthetically appealing vessel.

The Sunseeker Manhatten 50 may be $635,000 but you will find plenty of mod cons inside such as a full beam master cabin, private en-suite facilities and a guest cabin for those all-important VIP’s. Meanwhile, there is a separate dining space and leather upholstery which exudes sophistication. Other extras that come with this boat include the likes of heating, an individual generator and a hydraulic passerelle and twin 800hp diesel engines.

23 Most Affordable Entry-Level Boat Models

most affordable boats

Our Boat Loan Calculator makes it easy to figure out just how much boat you can afford, and our Boat Finder will help you narrow the field to a particular type of boat. But it can be much more difficult to identify the specific models that fit both your budget and your desires.

The price range for boats is huge, of course, but average middle-class Americans looking to find their new dream-boat will each have their own budget, and their own definition of just what “affordable” means. That may mean looking for a boat that costs about as much as a new car, taking the family on a series of vacations, or putting in an in-ground pool.

Fortunately, there is indeed a boat for every budget. Here are some of the most affordable starter boats to keep in mind when you begin dreaming, listed in order of boat type from A to Z.

lund 1650 angler ss

1. All-Purpose Fishing Boats: Lund 1650 Angler SS

In this category there are countless options, and luckily, many all-purpose fishing boats are relatively low cost because their focus on fishing means they aren’t loaded up with excessive amenities. While that simplicity may limit the boat’s appeal to only anglers, it also helps manufacturers keep pricing down—way down. In fact, in the smaller size ranges it’s possible to find an all-purpose fishing boat that can easily hold a family of four and fits in the garage, yet is priced in the $10,000 to $20,000 range.

Take the Lund 1650 Angler SS , for example. It’s rated for up to five people, has a 40 HP outboard, a trailer, a livewell, and a driver’s side console, and is an ideal platform for all kinds of freshwater fishing and trips on relatively protected saltwater bays. Yet listing at just $15,547, this package can be financed with payments under $150 a month.  Visit  Lund Boats  to learn more.

Explore All-Purpose Fishing Boat Brands

Tracker Topper 1542

2. Aluminum Fishing Boats: Tracker Topper 1542

Aluminum boats are like the ATVs of the boating world. They’re rugged, versatile, compact, easy to transport, and easy to afford. They’re also an excellent choice for people who have light-duty tow vehicles, thanks to their relatively light weight. True, they don’t usually have many luxury features nor integrated entertainment devices, but you’ll be so busy reeling in fish you’ll never notice in the first place. One sub-category of aluminum fishing boat with particularly wide appeal is the Jon boat , since it’s among the most affordable options on the water.

In fact, some smaller utilitarian models intended for protected waterways, like the Tracker Topper 1542 , can be powered with a small outboard or an electric motor and at $1,595 costs less than some high-priced cell phones. For many forms of fishing in protected waterways, a boat like this will more than do the trick. Visit  Tracker Boats  to learn more.

Explore Aluminum Fishing Boat Brands

Ranger RT188P 

3. Bass Boats: Ranger RT188P 

While we’ll stipulate that there are some extremely expensive bass boats on the market, there are also plenty of lower-cost bass boats out there that are very competent fishing machines. They may not have the bling of models that are triple the cost, but boats like the Ranger RT188P have it where it counts: in the bass fishing department. This boat-motor-trailer package offers 115 horses, a fishfinder, a bow-mount trolling motor, multiple rodboxes and livewells, onboard tackle stowage, and an onboard battery charger. Even with all these big-ticket goodies included, base price is just $27,095. Oh, and did we mention that it looks great, too? Visit  Ranger Boats  to learn more.

Explore Bass Boat Brands

Mako 18 LTS

4. Bay Boats/Flats Boats: Mako 18 LTS

Saltwater fishing is popular just about anywhere there’s a coastline, and anglers who ply bays, inshore waters, and back-country flats love their bay boats and flats boats . If you’ve been looking at offerings in this genre you’ve probably noticed there’s a very wide range of pricing, which is often related to the size of the boat. But an 18-footer like the Mako 18 LTS can still be had for well under the $30,000 mark. And note that although it’s relatively small and inexpensive, this boat can carry five passengers and has plenty of features ranging from flush-mount vertical rodholders, to an 18-gallon livewell, to cockpit courtesy lighting. Visit MAKO to learn more.

Explore Bay/Flats Boats Brands

regal 1900 es

5. Bowriders: Regal 1900 ES

As one of the most versatile, do-everything designs around, bowriders attract a lot of first-time boat-buyers. That means there’s a long list of boatbuilders who make bowriders, and they’re available in a huge range of shapes and sizes. You’ll want to do lots of comparison shopping before deciding which specific make or model is ideal for your needs, but if your budget comes in at $30,000 or under, one you’ll surely want to look at is the Regal 1900 ES . It can hold the entire family plus some friends (maximum capacity is nine people) and can be used for everything from watersports to day cruising . Visit  Regal Boats  to learn more.

Explore Bowrider Brands

jeanneau nc 795

6. Cabin Cruisers: Jeanneau NC 795

Cabin cruisers naturally tend to be larger and more expensive than many other types of boats, but that doesn’t mean they’re out of reach for people who considers overnight cruising the ultimate family adventure. In fact, consider all the expenses you’d incur if you paid for all the gear, vehicles, lodging, and supplies to go on a trip to some exciting new place every weekend, all summer long. Then visit our Boat Loan Calculator and plug in the cost of a relatively affordable cabin cruiser, like the $80,750 Jeanneau NC 795 . You might be surprised to learn that you could actually do more for the dollar, by buying the boat. Visit  Jeanneau  to learn more.

Explore Cabin Cruiser Brands

Robalo R160

7. Center Consoles: Robalo R160

Traditionally most people have thought of center consoles purely as fishing boats, but in recent years more and more people have discovered that the center console design is also great for any number of boating activities.

Consider a boat like the Robalo R160 , for example, which starts at an uber-affordable $23,295 and comes ready to fish hard, trailers easily, and can pull the kids around on water-toys when the fish stop biting. You want a serious but affordable fishing machine? Then there’s a good chance a center console will fit the bill—but don’t think for a second that you won’t find countless other ways to enjoy family boating, as well. Visit  Robalo Boats  to learn more.

Explore Center Console Brands

Rinker 22MTX

8. Cuddy Cabins: Rinker 22MTX

If you like the idea of having a boat with a cabin and spending nights or weekends aboard is an option you desire—but spending big bucks on a yacht is not—a cuddy cabin will likely prove ideal. Cuddies have all the basics you need like a berth to sleep on, basic restroom facilities, and sometimes even a compact galley (kitchen), but they’re still small and simple enough to keep pricing down at reasonable levels. Just what’s “reasonable”?

While cabin boats do tend to cost a bit more than open models, some like the Rinker 22MTX will cost less than many nice cars (sticker price is $47,380). Yet boats like this come fully-equipped with everything you need for memory-making mini-vacations. Visit Rinker Boats  to learn more.

Explore Cuddy Cabin Brands

Bayliner Element Series

9. Deck Boats: Bayliner Element Series

If you could figure out the cost-per-smile factor of any recreational vehicle in the world it would be seriously tough to beat a deck boat . These open, spacious boats are great for just about any waterborne activity and thanks to their simplicity they’re shockingly affordable. The Bayliner Element series is a perfect example. A beefy 21-footer with a 115 HP outboard, a trailer, and room for a crowd of 10 people lists for under $28,000. The 18-foot version barely breaks the $20,000 mark, and the 16-footer starts as low as $15,299—less than the cost of many new motorcycles, which aren’t exactly the ideal vehicles for family entertainment. Visit Bayliner to learn more.

Explore Deck Boat Brands

walker bay 10

10. Dinghies: Walker Bay 10

Many people get dinghies to go with a larger boat, but they can provide lots of fun all on their own. In fact, for a couple of people who want to go out exploring or fishing in protected waters, a dinghy is one of the most cost-effective ways to get out there.

True, little boats like the Walker Bay 10 don’t have much in the way of amenities; but with the ability to hold three people, add a sail or outboard (up to three HP), and a list price of just $1,279, how can you beat the bang for the buck? Visit  Walker Bay Boats  to learn more.

Explore Dinghy Brands

Lowe FS 1700

11. Fish-and-Ski Boats: Lowe FS 1700

Families who enjoy both fishing and watersports naturally gravitate to this design. Fish-and-ski boats are exactly what they sound like: fishing boats that are designed and equipped to do double duty when they kids enjoy watersports as much as they enjoy hooking walleye.

The Lowe FS 1700 is sure to draw plenty of attention, thanks to its aptitude as both a fishing boat and a watertoy-towing fun-machine. And its price tag is quite low, starting at a mere $20,495 with a 60 HP outboard and a trailer. Visit  Lowe Boats  to learn more.

Explore Fish-and-Ski Brands

Donzi 16 Classic

12. High Performance Boats: Donzi 16 Classic

When it comes to budget-conscious boat-buying, high performance boats probably don’t top most people’s lists. However, that doesn’t mean you have to spend a million dollars to get a boat that provides adrenaline-inducing thrill rides. Start small with a boat like the Donzi 16 Classic (MSRP: $61,900), which can be equipped with 200- or 250-horsepower, and you’ll soon be zipping across the water at speeds most boats only reach when they’re being trailered down the highway. Visit  Donzi Marine  to learn more.

Explore High Performance Boat Brands

Sea Eagle 10.6sr

13. Inflatables: Sea Eagle 10.6sr

Inflatables are a rather unique class of boats, particularly in that many can be deflated, rolled up, and stored under a couch or in the closet of a studio apartment. So not only are they ideal as tenders and towboats, inflatables can also get urban dwellers into the boating game. And they can do so quite inexpensively.

Match up a boat like the Sea Eagle 14sr ($2,499) with a portable outboard, and you young urban dwellers have a boat capable of carrying seven people that takes just 25 minutes to inflate—and you could even add on things like swivel seats, a Bimini top, and fishing rod holders. Visit  Sea Eagle Boats  to learn more.

Explore Inflatable Boat Brands

scarab 165 g

14. Jet Boats: Scarab 165 G

Jet boats are quite popular among first-time boat-buyers, and other than the jet drive and some rather sporty and spectacular handling characteristics, most are more or less like other runabouts. They tend to share pricing characteristics, too, and one that’s eminently affordable is the Scarab 165 G . Even with its small $24,433 MSRP it delivers big on sporty fun, and has a surprisingly wide range of features like aft swim platform loungers, a ski-tow eye, and USB charging ports. Visit  Scarab Boats  to learn more.

Explore Jet Boat Brands

15. Motor Yachts/Power Cruisers: Sea Ray Sundancer 350 Coupe

Sea Ray Sundancer 350 Coupe

No one’s going to argue that motor yachts and power cruisers are low-cost; but consider how much you have would to pay for a chic two-bedroom waterfront home with a full kitchen, living room, and bathroom, plus a deck with a grill, outdoor stereo, and retracting sunshade. Oh, and BTW, you can park this bungalow in any waterfront village you’d like, whenever you’d like. What do you think, a half a million dollars sounds about right?

For significantly less you can get boats like the Sea Ray Sundancer 350 Coupe , which not only have all of the above but can also hit speeds in the 40-mph range and feature perks like outdoor cockpit air-conditioning, a bow lounger, and a sunroof over the helm. Visit  Sea Ray Boats  to learn more.

Explore Motor Yacht/Power Cruiser Brands

World Cat 230CC

16. Multi-Hull Power Boats: World Cat 230CC

Ask a crowd of experienced boaters about multi-hull power boats , or "power cats" as they’re often called, and you may hear that they generally cost more than regular monohull powerboats . But when you compare different boats by their capabilities and useable space, that’s not always the case.

Consider a World Cat 230CC , for example. Yes, it has a sticker price pushing close to $100,000, which sounds like a lot for a 23-foot boat. But powercats like this have more interior volume because they’re wider in the bow—in fact, the 230CC has seating for a huge crew of 10. Plus, the smooth twin-hull ride can take on bigger seas than most monohulls in this class, and the boat has twin engines. So when you add capability and space into the equation this boat should really be compared to much larger monohulls. And for the value you get it’s actually far more affordable than it seems upon first glance. Visit  World Cat  to learn more.

Explore Multi-Hull Power Boat Brands

yamaha waverunner ex series

17. Personal Watercraft (PWC): Yamaha WaveRunner EX Series

Looking for a cheap thrill? You just found it. Few boats are as affordable as personal watercraft , and few can claim to be more fun. Grin-inducing wave-hops, G-force turns, and a face full of spray are just a few of the experiences that await you, and we dare you to try to go two minutes on a personal watercraft without smiling. Good luck, because it isn’t going to happen.

And, talk about affordable: the Yamaha Waverunner EX series lists at a mere $6,899 to start—less than a couple might lay out for a week-long trip to Europe. Yet it can carry up to three people and blasts off with a 1049-cc Yamaha TR-1 jet engine. Can you say “WOOHOO”? Visit  Yamaha WaterCraft  to learn more.

Explore Personal Watercraft (PWC) Brands

Godfrey Sweetwater 1886 C

18. Pontoon Boats: Godfrey Sweetwater 1886 C

One of the great things about pontoon boats is that most models are highly customizable, and you can get them just as simple and inexpensive or as gussied-up as you please. While that may mean foregoing the snazzy wine-chiller or the huge outboard engine to get a more affordable price, it certainly doesn’t mean foregoing the family fun a pontoon boat will provide.

Consider the Godfrey Sweetwater 1886 C , which seats 10 comfortable and comes with features like a 40 HP outboard, gobs of seating, a cocktail table, and a swim ladder. MSRP is just over $26,000, and you can add in a slew of features like a Bimini top, a stereo system, a pop-up changing room, and even a chilled cupholder at the helm, without breaking through the $30,000 barrier. Visit  Godfrey Pontoons  to learn more.

Explore Pontoon Boat Brands

Beneteau First 14

19. Sailboats: Beneteau First 14

When it comes to economics, sailboats hold an advantage over powerboats since they don’t need the power provided by those big motors. You may be attracted to a small, simple boat that can be taken out single-handed or by a handful of people, like the $10,800 Beneteau First 14 . Or you may be more interested in a model that has a cabin and a berth, like the First 18 ($28,800). In any case, not only are boats like these eminently affordable, they also enjoy lower operational expenses than powerboats. You’ll love that new boat even more as you sail right past the fuel dock. Visit  Beneteau  to learn more.

Explore Sailboat Brands

Four Winns HD 200 Surf

20. Ski Boats/Wake Boats: Four Winns HD 200 Surf

Towed watersports have exploded with popularity in the past decade, and it’s no wonder why. Whether you’re surfing the wakes or practicing slalom skiing, watersports make for fast-paced and exciting athletic action. If you’ve shopped for dedicated watersports boats , however, you may have noticed that they can be on the expensive side. That doesn’t necessarily have to be the case. New tech in drive units and boat designs has made it possible for many manufacturers to offer lower cost boats that work great for sports like surfing and water skiing.

The Four Winns HD 200 Surf is a great example, since it has everything needed in a serious watersports boat (like tow points, wake tabs, and ballast tanks), but it doesn’t edge too much above the $50,000 mark. Visit  Four Winns  to learn more.

Explore Ski/Wake Boat Brands

Boston Whaler 345 Conquest

21. Sportfishing Yachts: Boston Whaler 345 Conquest

No, we’re not going to try to convince anyone that a sportfishing yacht is “inexpensive.” And affordability is entirely in the eye of the beholder. But consider this: if you chartered an offshore sportfishing yacht for a day of fishing, in most parts of the nation you’d pay somewhere between $1,500 and $2,500 per day. Once you spend that money it’s gone. But if you purchased a sportfishing yacht that retains a good deal of its value over time, like the Boston Whaler 345 Conquest (which goes for a little over a half-million dollars), you’ll have the asset of the boat itself for years to come. And on top of that you’ll have the unrestricted ability to go fishing or cruising in luxury whenever the mood strikes. Visit  Boston Whaler  to learn more.

Explore Sportfishing Yacht Brands

Ranger Tugs R-23

22. Trawlers: Ranger Tugs R-23

Since most people think of trawlers as large and luxurious, you may find it a bit surprising to discover that there plenty of smaller, more affordable trawlers to consider, too. True, you won’t be crossing the Atlantic on a 23-footer like the Ranger Tugs R-23 . This little $115,000 pocket-yacht does, however, have sleeping space for a family of four, complete food-prep facilities, a private head compartment (that’s nautical-speak for bathroom), and an open cockpit you can use for everything from tanning to fishing. Visit  Ranger Tugs  to learn more .

Explore Trawler Brands

Striper 200 Walkaround OB

23. Walkarounds: Striper 200 Walkaround OB

Many people, especially parents with small kids, feel a cabin is a must-have whether they plan to go fishing, day cruising or spend a night or two camping aboard. And even the smallest of the walkarounds out there provide you with a place to sleep, protection from the weather, and somewhere to relieve yourself. Boats like the Striper 200 Walkaround OB check all those boxes. And listing an MSRP of $66,893, it’s certainly easier to afford than a cabin at the lake. Visit  Striper Boats  to learn more.

Explore Walkaround Boat Brands

And don’t forget people, while you could dedicate that boat budget to a car, vacations, or a pool, we think a boat has got all of those things beat—hands-down. Who would rather travel down the road, when open waterways beckon? Why restrict your recreation to short-lived vacations, when going boating is like taking a vacation each and every time you pull off the dock? Doesn’t choosing a pool seem rather limiting, when your boat will provide you with countless places to take the plunge? Find the perfect boat for you, your family, and your budget, and you’ll never regret it.

Read Next: Best Boats for Families

Editor's Note: Pricing is accurate as last date of publish, May 12, 2020. Please contact each boat manufacturers or your local boat dealer directly for the most updated pricing.

You Might Also Like:

  • The Ultimate Boat Buyer's Guide
  • Costs of Boat Ownership
  • First-Time Boat Owner's Checklist
  • Best Boats for Beginners
  • Explore All Boat Types & Brands

scheduling appointments with boat dealers

Join Our Newsletter!

Get community news, buying bargains, and how-to guides at your fingertips.

Boat Bub

Motor Boat Types Explained: How to Find the Right One for You

  • Latest Posts

' src=

Do you dream of owning a motorboat? Motorboats are great for fishing, water sports, adventure, and fun. They are also referred to as speedboats and powerboats and come in different shapes and sizes. There are different types of motorboats today. This article has all the different motor boat types explained as well as their advantages and disadvantages. Read on to find your dream motorboat. 

Types of Motor Boats

Bowrider motor boats.

Motor Boat Types Explained Bowrider

Bowriders are a perfect choice for beginners and those with family. The open bow area makes room for extra seats in the helm and can hold more than 8 passengers. The boat is about 17-30 inches in length. The V-shaped hull offers smooth rides, whether on inland waters or coastal waters.

The boat can be powered by outboard engines or stern drive and can be used for water sports or fishing.

  • Bowriders can be used for water sports, entertaining, fishing, and entertainment.
  • It can fit up to 9 passengers.
  • It can be powered by a sterndrive, jet propulsion, inboard, or outboard engines.
  • The motorboat looks crammed with maximum passengers on board.

Cabin Cruisers

Motor Boat Types Explained Cabin Cruisers

Powerboats that have sleeping accommodations onboard are referred to as cabin cruisers. They are ideal for relaxed cruises as they include modern comforts like air conditioners, heaters, and power generators.

These cruiser boats have a deep V-bottom, shaft drive mechanism, and rudder steering. The cruiser is mainly used on salty, coastal waters and can be propelled with pod drive, sterndrive, outboard, and inboard motors.

  • The motorboat is great for day and night cruising.
  • It has a seating capacity of 10 people.
  • The cruiser offers luxury and accommodation.
  • They are expensive to buy and maintain.

Center Console Powerboats

Motor Boat Types Explained Center Console Powerboats

The center console gets its name from the fact that the helm is fitted in the console found at the boat’s center. It lacks a foredeck and cabin. The motor boat’s design makes it possible for anglers to walk from the bow to the stern without stepping on the gunwales. This 13-45’’ boat uses outboard motors to cruise. 

Center consoles are great for sports fishing. They work perfectly in harsh offshore waterways where there are plenty of schools of fish. The deck in center consoles has powerful insulation to ice the fish storage. Also, the boat can hold fish lockers, outriggers, gunwale rod holders, and bait wells.

  • Center consoles can be used for fresh and saltwater fishing, cruising, and water sports.
  • They have better access to water.
  • They are easy to maintain.
  • It lacks protection from the elements.

Convertible Motor Boats

Convertible Motor Boats

Convertible motor boats are great for fishing and weekend cruising. This large-sized boat has a large cabin, a flybridge for running the boat, an entertaining area for passengers, and an advantage point for spotting fish grounds.

  • They have large cabins.
  • The height of the flybridge elevates the captain to spot fish-grounds easily.
  • They are ideal for offshore fishing.
  • They are easily accessible, like express fishing boats.

Deck Boats

Deck boats are 25-35 ft. long and are mainly made of fiberglass or aluminum. They have better performance and space compared to pontoon boats since they have a V-shaped hull. The open deck available on the boat provides plenty of seating space for passengers. They, however, have no space for accommodation below the deck.

Deck boats are either powered by stern drive, jet drive, or outboard engines. The boat is mainly used for recreation activities such as water sports and swimming.

  • They are perfect for families and parties.
  • They have more capabilities and amenities than bowriders.
  • They can hold up to 14 people.
  • They are not fast.
  • They are less spacious compared to pontoons.

Bowrider Boats

Motor Boat Types Explained Bowrider Boats

This boat is also called a quintessential family boat. They have spacious rooms for more than eight passengers on the cockpit, helm, and bow cockpit. These boats also offer comfort and leisure through the swim platform.

Bowriders have a V-shaped bottom that can cruise through different weather conditions. Although the bowrider offers splendid rides using the sterndrive power, the demand to use outboard engines is on demand. 

  • They are versatile and can be used for fishing, watersports, and entertaining.
  • Bowriders are affordable.
  • Passengers can sit in the front and back.
  • They are easy to drive.
  • It is not great for overnight cruising.
  • It has narrow and cramped seating at the front.

Dinghy Boats

Motor Boat Types Explained Dinghy Boats

Dinghy boats can be hard-sided or inflatable. Although oars and sails powered them in the past, dinghy boars are now powered by small outboard motors.

They are often used for transporting passengers and their personal effects to and from shore when a mothership cannot get onshore. The motorboats are also used for camping expeditions and fishing.

  • Inflatable dinghy boats are easy to store.
  • They are extremely lightweight.
  • They are stable and durable.
  • Soft inflatable dinghy boats can flip you in water on impact.

Express Cruiser Boats

Express Cruiser Boats

Express boats have large cockpits where guests get entertained both indoors and outdoors. The helm is slightly elevated and tucked up by the boat’s windscreen. Besides, these 30-50-foot-long cruisers have more outdoor space and multiple cabins.

In terms of cruising, these motorboats can achieve speeds of 25-30 knots. They can be powered by pod drives, stern drives, or twin engines.

  • Express cruiser boats are great for sightseeing.
  • They have more outdoor space.
  • They have fast speeds.
  • They consume a lot of fuel.
  • They are pricey.

High-Performance Motor Boats

Motor Boat Types Explained High-Performance Motor Boats

As the name suggests, these motorboats are designed for speed and performance. Their high power to weight ratio, steep deadrise, and narrow beam help the boat perform on the water. High-performance boats are also referred to as go-fast boats and muscle boats.

These go-fast motorboats are powered by stern drives, high horsepower outboards, or surface drives. With 25-60 ft. length, these boats are light, strong, fast, and ideal for fast cruising. 

  • They can hold up to 6 passengers in the cockpit.
  • They are built for racing.
  • They are expensive

Personal Watercraft Boat

Personal Watercraft Boat

Personal watercraft are designed for fun, pleasure, and adventure. These boats are also referred to as jet skis and water scooters. With them, one can explore the waters or engage in water sports. Personal watercraft are either sit-downs or stand-ups. Sit-down s can hold two or more passengers, while stand-ups can only hold one rider. 

  • They are smaller and easier to maneuver
  • They are perfect for water sports and adventure.
  • Servicing them is easy, and they are more stable on the water.
  • You need safety gear when riding a personal watercraft powerboat.

Houseboats

Houseboats are also known as floating houses as they have dining areas, bedrooms, and kitchens. These boats are ideal for families, entertaining, recreation, cruising, or enjoying water sports. They come in different shapes and sizes and mostly measure 25 ft. in length to 150 ft. 

Houseboats have broad flooring and modern amenities to offer luxury. These boats are motorized and are incapable of working on their power.

  • Houseboats can also be used as living houses.
  • You have vacation activities throughout the year. 
  • Fishing takes place anytime.
  • If you live on a houseboat, you have to join the homeowner’s association. 

Inflatable Boats

Inflatable Boats

These boats have inflatable tubes on the sides for fast and easy inflation and deflation. They also have flexible or rigid floors, depending on their size. Measuring 6-14’’, inflatable boats are ideal for beginners.

The common motors used in inflatables are outboard motors as they can be mounted on the rigid transom.

  • They are lightweight when deflated, making them easy to transport.
  • They are good for beginners.
  • They are not as stable as other powerboats. 

Jet Boats

These are run by single or several jet drives. They are mostly used in shallow waters and water sports because of their small size. Jet boats are highly maneuverable too.

  • It has quick turning capability and acceleration.
  • They can achieve top speeds.
  • They lack an exterior propeller.

Pilothouse Boats

Pilothouse Boats

Designed to ride rougher seas, the pilothouse boats are fully enclosed to keep the helmsman dry. They are great for cruising and fishing. These boats have a berth and head and are 20-35 ft. in length. 

The pilothouse boats can be powered by inboards, outboards, and stern drives.

  • The helmsman stays high and dry even in rough sea conditions.
  • It has reduced wind and engine noise.
  • Mounting accessories on a pilothouse motorboat is easy. 
  • It can be hot and stuffy if the boat does not have an air-conditioner. 

Pontoon Boats

Pontoon Boats

Mainly used in small water bodies, rivers, and inland lakes, pontoon boats are ideal for water sports, fishing, and cruising. They are available in 15-30 ft. length, have shallow drafts, and are highly stable. They also support a broad platform with the multiple aluminum pontoons fitted. These boats have flat decks and a fence for tour groups.

Sterndrives or outboard motors often power pontoon boats.

  • They are comfortable and have great speeds. 
  • They can be used for fishing and water sports. 
  • They offer safety.
  • They are not ideal for rough waters.

Power Catamaran

Power Catamaran

Power catamarans are dual hull boats that offshore fishers mainly use. Not only are they rugged, but they also offer stable rides. Furthermore, they can achieve fast speeds and consume less fuel compared to mono-hulls. They also have higher displacement, less hull volume, and shallow drafts.

Power catamaran boats have lengths of 25-40 ft. They are excellent for leisure and fishing. These boats use sails and engines, making them a crossover powerboat.

  • They have more space than monohulls.
  • They are more stable on waves.
  • Dual hulls are faster than monohulls.
  • They are more expensive than yachts.

Cuddy Cabins

Cuddy Cabins

Cuddy cabin is a family-friendly powerboat. It can be used for sailing, fishing, leisure, and yachting. With a closed deck on the boat’s bow, the cuddy cabin is easy to navigate and has ample storage space. In terms of materials used, these boats are usually made of aluminum and fiberglass with a length of not less than 475 meters. 

  • They provide a dynamic cruising experience.
  • They are trailer-able and can cruise different waters.
  • They have sleeping space for day naps and nights.
  • Bow access is limited.

Runabout Motor Boats

Runabout Motor Boats

Small motorboats between 14-24 ft. in length are known as runabouts. They can be used for water sports, cruising, or fishing; runabouts can be powered by a sterndrive engine or an outboard motor. The open boat has a steering wheel behind a windscreen as well as forward controls.

Runabout motorboats can accommodate up to eight people.

  • They are inexpensive.
  • They are low-maintenance.
  • Runabout speedboats are versatile.
  • They have limited fuel capacity, thus limiting the travel range.

Utility Boats

Utility Boats

Designed for tough use, utility boats are mainly powered by outboard motors. They are generally made of aluminum or fiberglass and are 12-20 ft. The boats can either be used as workboats or fishing vessels. 

  • They are ideal for novice boaters
  • They are inexpensive to maintain.
  • Aluminum utility boats are noisy at high speeds.

Walkarounds

Walkarounds

These boats have side decks to provide room for anglers to move up the foredeck and around the cabin. Found in large water bodies, walkarounds measure 20-30 ft. in length. Walkarounds can use inboard engines, outboard motors, or both. 

  • There is plenty of room to walk around.
  • They are fuel-efficient.
  • They are heavy to trail around.

Superyacht

Yachts between 100-200 ft. long are known as superyachts. These motorboats have multiple decks, accommodations, a galley, lounges, and a living room. These boats are mainly used to host and entertain guests.

  • It can cruise deep waters.
  • They have recreational recreation.
  • They are costly to maintain.

Megayacht

Any yacht with over 200 ft. length and up to 500 ft. height is referred to as a mega yacht. Most are custom-made and owned by the wealthy class. They feature state-of-art luxuries like a helipad, large swimming pools, plenty of guest rooms, and a crew of not less than 25 people. Ideally, they can be referred to as luxurious floating resorts.

  • They offer affordable recreation and quality time for passengers.
  • They can cruise in deep waters.
  • Mega Yachts are only usable in warm seasons.

Bass Boats

Bass boats measure 14-23 inches and are mainly used for freshwater fishing in rivers and inland lakes. Their design features a V-hull, flat deck, shallow draft, and low freeboard. They are fitted with special gear, trolling motors, and high horsepower outboards.

  • They make good fishing vessels since the trolling motor operates quietly.
  • They offer the freedom to fish in different waters.
  • They have great casting platforms.
  • They are slow.
  • They have limited seating.

Although they have a low profile, bay boats are great for shallow waters near the shore or coastal waters. Their length measures 18-24 inches. They are made of fiberglass, which makes them durable when used in brackish and saltwater. Compared with flatboats, bay boats have more free boards.

  • The low-slung gunwales make it easy to swing fish into the boat.
  • They are great for fishing in very shallow waters.
  • They come with basic fishing features.
  • They can only hold three people.

Sedan Bridge

Sedan Bridge

A sedan bridge is typically 35-65 feet long and offers the captain or navigator excellent visibility. What’s more, the cockpit level in a Sedan bridge is close to that of the boat’s aft deck. For this reason, this powerboat does not need a ladder or stairs. Access to the cockpit is relatively easy on the Sedan Bridge. 

  • It has plenty of room in the salon.
  • They are easier to operate, clean, and wax.
  • Not perfect for rough waters. 

Other types of powerboats include;

With a pointed bow and flat bottom, skiffs are perfect for navigating shallow waters. They come in different lengths and sizes. It is easy to operate a skiff using a basic steering console.

Game boats are useful in game fish pursuits such as tuna and marlin and use diesel or petrol engines. These boats are large in size and made of fiberglass. They are also equipped with cooking galleys, plumbing systems, and sleeping berths.

Motor Yacht Boats

These are primarily leisure boats. The standard length of one is 12m and above and can hold 1-2 diesel engines. They are great for both short and long family trips.

Wakeboards/ Ski Boats

Although they look alike, wakeboards and ski boats have variations in terms of actions. Inboard ski boats need powerful acceleration. The shape of the propeller and engine also brings out noticeable differences. 

On the other hand, inboard wakeboards have a V-drive engine system, huge wake, and deep hulls to get the boat in motion.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Motor Boat

With over 30 motorboats to choose from, how can you find the perfect type for you? Below are factors you need to keep in mind before making the decision.

New or Preowned Motor Boat?

This should be one of the factors to consider when thinking about buying a boat. New boats are the best choice if you have saved for the purchase or money is not a problem. One advantage of buying a new boat is they have a warranty, so the repairs are covered in case of a malfunction. 

What if you do not have enough money to get a new motorboat? Get a pre-owned one.  However, ensure that it is thoroughly checked by a motorboat professional. 

Reason and Frequency of Using the Motor Boat

Motor Boat

When choosing a motorboat, understand the reason why you need the boat. Is it for fishing? Will it be one of your entertainment assets? Or will it serve as a sailing boat or for family trips? Once you discern why you need the boat, you will make the right choice when choosing the motorboat. 

After knowing what the boat will be used for, determine how often you will need it. Why? If the boat is for fishing, you need to understand how long the fishing seasons in your area last. What if the boat is for family trips? You need to tell when the weather is great for outdoor sports and when schools take a break so you can take the kids for a vacation. 

Motorboats depreciate fast in the first year of purchase. If you discover that you will only take the boat on the water once every few months, the best decision is to wait. By doing so, you will save yourself the agony of depreciation and maintenance fees. 

Thinking about the reason and frequency of using the boat beforehand will help you maximize your investment.

Motor Boat Use

If you are getting confused looking at different motorboats, here are a few questions to reflect on and help you make the decision.

  • Are you looking to impress guests and business associates?
  • Do you want a motorboat that fits on a trailer?
  • Are you looking for a boat that can hold your family?
  • Is the boat for water sports?
  • Do you have experience in motorboating?
  • Are you looking for a multi-purpose boat?
  • Do you need help operating the powerboat?
  • How much boat loan payment can you afford monthly?

Finding answers to the above questions will help you minimize your options.

Your Location

Before buying a speedboat, consider whether you have access to a water body. If you do have access to a body of water, confirm whether the waterways are appropriate with the use and type of boat you want. For example, if you buy a motorboat for fishing and live close to a lake, check whether fishing is allowed on the lake.

The location also plays an important role in terms of storage. Are there slip options and marinas in your area? Are boats allowed on the streets by the homeowner’s association? Considering these options before purchase will help you find the best storage options when you buy the motorboat.

Type of Motor Boat

As previously stated, there are plenty of types of motorboats. Nevertheless, they all will not match your user needs. For starters, consider the size of the boat. How many people are you planning to have onboard?

Do you need space for fishing gear? Does your boat require sleeping accommodations? These factors will determine the size of the powerboat you need.

Besides, take into consideration the condition of the motorboat. For pre-owned motorboats, consider whether they will meet both your short and long-term goals. Moreover, calculate how much you will spend on maintenance as old boats need more repairs.

Type of Hull

There are three main types of powerboat hulls; displacement hulls, planing hulls, and semi-displacement hulls.

Displacement hulls are found in heavy vessels such as tugs and trawlers. They are fuel-efficient and can navigate through rough seas. Unfortunately, they are not fast, making them ideal for long distances.

Planing hulls, on the other hand, skim over the water at high speeds. Made of lightweight materials, planing hulls are powered by powerful engines. They, however, have high costs of maintenance and fuel consumption.

Semi-displacement hulls offer both speed and functionality. Although they are not as fast as planing hulls, they achieve reasonable speeds and cruise through rugged seas. Many boat builders and designers prefer semi-displacement motorboats.

Storage also plays a role when choosing the type of speedboat. Some motorboats can fit on trailers and others in a storage unit area. Keep in mind that the bigger the boat, the larger the storage space, trailer, and towing truck. Huge boats may force you to get permits and hire professionals when moving.

Also, pay attention to storage costs during winter or when you are not using the motorboat. 

Motor Boat

How much will the motorboat cost you? By cost, consider the upfront cost of buying the boat, maintenance, storage fees, gear, fuel, accessories, trailers, and hitches. Besides, you need to set money aside for boat insurance.

Boat insurance covers physical damage on the motorboat, loss, and damage of personal effects on the boat and injuries in the event of a boating collision. Talk to your insurer before purchase to get a quote on expected insurance costs. 

On the other hand, if you are not looking to pay upfront, you can look into historic lows. Today, there are plenty of marine lenders who can finance your boat loan for 10 to 20 years. Before choosing a marine lender, determine carefully whether your cash flow can sustain that long-term loan.

Legal System

Different states have different regulations. For example, some states require boat operators to own an operator’s card to prove their competence. Therefore, check what the laws require of you as a boat owner before the purchase.

The same applies to buying a pre-owned motor; ensure the seller transfers the motor boat’s ownership under your name. What if the seller cannot find proof of ownership? Ensure you get a declaration under oath from them about why they do not have proof of ownership.

You must have browsed through different boat brands when looking for a motorboat. Good thing, most motorboat brands have boat owners clubs where you can get crucial information about boats. Here, you can ask questions and tips about the brand before the purchase.

Besides, it is much cheaper to make an online purchase. However, if you have not made the final decision yet, attend a boat show to view and access the different models and brands available. Talk to experts and ask their opinions based on your intent on the motorboat.

You must ensure that a motorboat is seaworthy, especially pre-owned boats. Walk around the boat and access the vessel. Next, take the motorboat for a sea trial and gauge whether there are any problems.

If you are inexperienced in boating, a shiny, clean motorboat may blind you. Therefore, hire a professional marine surveyor as you may miss some important issues. Once you are done with the sea trial, haul the motorboat out of water for the surveyor to inspect the parts under the waterline. Inspecting the powerboat before the purchase will save you from making a wrong financial investment.

Whether buying a new or used boat, find out what else is included in the purchase. Have the seller provide you with a list of equipment included in the sale. You can then choose to take the whole package or shop the amenities on your own.

Question: Can I purchase a boat without qualifications?

Answer: Yes. Owning a private motorboat does not necessarily mean you need qualifications. However, there are advantages to having one.

Question: Which are the best motor boats for beginners?

Answer: Dinghies, bowriders, and pontoon boats are some of the best motor boats for beginners. They have simple propulsion systems and are more flexible.

Question: Should I buy a new or pre-owned motorboat?

Answer: Buying a new motorboat is the wisest decision because you get exactly what you are looking for. Sadly, new motorboats are expensive compared to pre-owned boats. Buying a used boat will save you money, and if not inspected thoroughly, you may find yourself with a lemon.

Question: What do I need to know about motorboat coverage?

Answer: Some small motorboats are covered on a homeowner’s policy, while large motorboats require a separate insurance policy. Also, boat insurance offers limited coverage on your personal effects.

Since there are numerous types of motorboats in the market, you find the ideal choice for you. Pick that motorboat that fits your needs, family, speed, and budget. 

Personal watercraft are perfect for 1-2 riders, while cuddy cabins are family-friendly. In terms of entertaining guests, express cruiser boats, superyachts, and Megayachts are the real deal.

Take your time going through the different types of powerboats, ask expert opinions, and make an informed investment for your money. 

COMMENTS

  1. 15 Most Expensive Yachts In The World

    The superyacht carries a helipad, two motorboats, water bikes, and a submersible. Amenities include a large dining room, swimming pool, a movie theater, and disco. ... The next in the line of most expensive superyachts is called A+. It was built by Germany's Lürssen yachts for about $527 million. The yacht was initially named 'Topaz.'

  2. The 15 Most Expensive Yachts in the World

    The 468-footer is not only the largest sailing yacht in the world, but also the most expensive with an estimated value of $578 million. Lürssen: 'Radiant' — $300 Million.

  3. 11 of the Best Luxury Boat Brands

    9. Oceanco. 10. Lurssen. 11. TecnoRib. Last Updated on May 16, 2023 by Boatsetter Team. The words "best" and "luxury" leave a lot up to interpretation. "Best" depends on the user's specific needs and "luxury" is usually found on larger yachts although some boats under 60 feet can be luxurious too.

  4. Cobalt Boats

    1950 Eisenhower Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316, USA. View Detail. View All Events. The luxury and lifestyle a Cobalt boat provides isn't just a promise—it's a reality. Read real owner reviews, in their own words. I have always heard of the quality and high end details of Cobalt, but not until I actually sat, drove and used the boat did I ...

  5. Yachts for Sale

    Explore luxury yachts for sale. Search for everything from motor yachts for sale from renowned Dutch yards including Feadship and Heesen, premium Italian names including Azimut, Sanlorenzo and Benetti, popular British builders Sunseeker and Princess, and American megayachts for sale from US yards such as Westport.

  6. 13 Best Motor Yachts in 2024

    Smaller motor yachts (33ft - 50ft) typically range from $500,000 to $3 million. Mid-size yachts (50ft - 80ft) can fall between $3 million and $15 million. Superyachts (over 80ft) enter a whole new pricing category, reaching into the hundreds of millions and beyond, depending on size, customization, and features.

  7. High performance boats for sale

    There are a wide range of High Performance boats for sale from popular brands like Skipper-BSK, Formula and Fountain with 943 new and 1,197 used and an average price of $150,784 with boats ranging from as little as $9,996 and $2,777,734.

  8. The 20 Most Expensive Yachts In the World

    The list of yachts and figures mentioned below have been compiled from various sources around the web, such as Luxhabitat, List25 and Unilad. These are the 20 most expensive yachts in the world: 20. Lionheart - $150 Million. Sir Philip Green kicks off the list with his 207-foot behemoth, Lionheart.

  9. Power Motor Yachts for sale

    Motor Yachts pricing. Motor Yachts listed for sale on YachtWorld offers a diverse price range, from $27,916 on the relatively more affordable end to an astonishing $28,875,723 for the most luxury model vessels available. When evaluating your budget and the listed price of a yacht for sale, it is crucial to factor in the cost of ownership.

  10. List of motor yachts by length

    This list of motor yachts by length, is a table of the world's longest active superyachts, with an overall length of at least 75 metres (246 ft) and up.. These boats are also known as "megayachts", "gigayachts" and even "terayachts", usually depending on length. [1] [2] It has been generally accepted by naval architects and industry executives that superyachts range from 37 m (≈120 ft) to 60 ...

  11. 6 The most classic Riva launches of all time

    Aquarama. The most expensive classic Riva yacht. The original Riva Aquarama line was delivered from 1962 to 1972. This included first classic Riva Aquarama yacht, of which 288 were sold, and the Super Aquarama, with 203 splashing. The Aquarama Special then emerged, running from 1972 to 1996 with 278 boats built.

  12. High Performance boats for sale

    High Performance boats pricing. High Performance boats for sale on YachtWorld are available for a variety of prices from $14,804 on the more modest side up to $4,032,000 for the bigger-ticket vessels. When evaluating your budget and the listed price of a yacht for sale, it is crucial to factor in the cost of ownership.

  13. Motorboat Types: Powerboat Terms, Uses, and Definitions

    A Beginners Guide to Motorboats There are many different types of motorboats, from small runabouts to mega yachts, with a vast array of hull shapes, construction materials, and propulsion systems.Sometimes referred to as powerboats, motor yachts, or superyachts (typically when over 100 feet long), what these boats share in common is that they all have some sort of engine or motor for ...

  14. Best Boat Brands

    Boston Whaler is unquestionably among the best-loved boat brands on the water today. Photo by Boston Whaler. 2. Boston Whaler. Boston Whaler makes fishing and luxury boats from 13' to 42' in 28 different models (as of August 2023), in all. For many years, Boston Whaler boats have been celebrated as "unsinkable".

  15. 9 Stunning Wooden Boats That Blend Classic Design With Modern Tech

    Founded in 1908, HackerCraft is one of the most prominent names in the wooden-boat world. The builder does series of boats such as its Sport, Sterling, and Racer models and also takes on full ...

  16. First time on a motor boat: what you should know

    Probably the most infamous brand of motorboats is Merry Fisher. The Merry Fisher 795 models are among the best sellers and the Merry Fisher 895 is a common sight cruising the coastline of Croatia. ... And although many more people can rent one, it is still quite expensive. A superyacht or megayacht is considered to be a boat longer than 80 feet ...

  17. The 10 Most Expensive Motorboats

    From built in satellite navigation and iPod docks to modern teak flooring, here are some of the most expensive motorboats which are certain to cause a splash. 10. Bayliner 742 Cuddy: $83,000. Launched in 2014 with an arctic white finish, the Bayliner 742 is priced at around $80,000. You can choose from a wide variety of add ons such as a bimini ...

  18. 19-foot Boats

    19FT WAKESURF PACKAGE. $1,360.99. Fits all '19~ Yamaha 19FT Family Fun & FSH BoatsKit Includes: Two custom designed 200 lbs. Yamaha Ballast Bags (400 lbs.total), Attachment Kit and Tsunami Fill Pump. Drilling required for customattachment parts.

  19. Motor yacht for sale

    These powerboats use the following propulsion options: inboard engine or stern drive engine. There are a wide range of Motor Yacht for sale from popular brands like Sea Ray, Carver and Azimut with 4,094 new and 14,085 used and an average price of $400,024 with boats ranging from as little as $14,987 and $22,626,693.

  20. 10 Truly Affordable Boats: Budget-Friendly Picks for 2023

    Here's a quick list of 10 of the best affordable boats in 2023 which can easily get you, your family, and your friends out on the water and well on your way to having many unforgettable boat adventures. 2023 Tracker Pro Guide V-16 SC. 2023 Boston Whaler Super Sport 160 and 130. 2023 Starcraft CX 21 R Pontoon Boat.

  21. 23 Best Cheap, Affordable Boats for Your Budget

    3. Bass Boats: Ranger RT188P . While we'll stipulate that there are some extremely expensive bass boats on the market, there are also plenty of lower-cost bass boats out there that are very competent fishing machines. They may not have the bling of models that are triple the cost, but boats like the Ranger RT188P have it where it counts: in the bass fishing department.

  22. Boats for sale

    2025. Request Price. The 280 Vantage builds on the legacy of the award-winning Vantage series, delivering exceptional stability, comfort and ease of operation. With its family-friendly dual-console layout and smart, convertible seating, the 280 provides plenty of space for everyone to stretch out and relax.

  23. Motor Boat Types Explained: How to Find the Right One for You

    Small motorboats between 14-24 ft. in length are known as runabouts. They can be used for water sports, cruising, or fishing; runabouts can be powered by a sterndrive engine or an outboard motor. The open boat has a steering wheel behind a windscreen as well as forward controls. Runabout motorboats can accommodate up to eight people.