Quick Fact
The world’s largest sailing yacht is Sailing Yacht A, measuring 468 ft (142.8 m) long with masts reaching nearly 300 ft (91 m). Built in Germany, it was delivered in 2017 for billionaire Andrey Melnichenko at an estimated cost of $800 million.
Where was Sailing Yacht A built, and why?
Sailing Yacht A was constructed at the Nobiskrug shipyard in Kiel, Germany, because the city’s deep-water access and industrial infrastructure made it perfect for building such a massive vessel.
Kiel’s been a hub for high-end superyacht construction since the late 19th century. Now, the yacht’s home port is Monaco—chosen for its favorable tax policies and prestige as a global center for luxury maritime activity.
What are the exact specifications of Sailing Yacht A?
Sailing Yacht A is 468 ft (142.8 m) long, 81.4 ft (24.8 m) wide, and displaces 12,558 gross tons
| Attribute |
Specifications |
| Length overall |
468 ft (142.8 m) |
| Beam (width) |
81.4 ft (24.8 m) |
| Draft |
30 ft (9.2 m) |
| Displacement |
12,558 gross tons |
| Mast height |
295 ft (90 m) |
| Sail area |
14,200 sq ft (1,320 sq m) |
| Builder |
Nobiskrug, Germany |
| Owner |
Andrey Melnichenko (Russian billionaire) |
| Year completed |
2017 |
| Cost |
Estimated $800 million USD |
Who designed Sailing Yacht A, and what makes it special?
Phoenix Yacht Design created Sailing Yacht A, which pushed naval architecture forward with its radical “Dubois” hull form and cutting-edge carbon-fiber rigging
That’s not all. The interior, by Terence Disdale, spans seven decks and includes a 230-square-foot owner’s suite with a private terrace. The yacht’s radar-absorbing materials and sharp angles gave it the nickname “The Stealth Yacht.” Honestly, this thing looks like it belongs in a sci-fi movie.
While it’s not the longest yacht overall (that’s Azzam at 590 ft), Sailing Yacht A remains the largest true sailing yacht ever built.
Where can you see Sailing Yacht A in person?
You’ll most often spot Sailing Yacht A in Monaco, Antibes (France), or Hamburg
Public sightings are especially common at Port Hercule in Monaco during the summer yachting season. If you’re hoping to get up close, tours aren’t an option—it’s privately owned and not open to the public as of 2026.
That said, chartered yacht shows in Monaco (like the Monaco Yacht Show) sometimes feature similar superyachts you can explore instead.
Is it possible to tour Sailing Yacht A?
No, as of 2026, Sailing Yacht A is privately owned and not open to public tours
You’ll have better luck checking out other superyachts at events like the Monaco Yacht Show. Honestly, unless you’re a billionaire yourself, this one’s off-limits.
How big is the crew needed to operate Sailing Yacht A?
Sailing Yacht A requires a crew of around 40 to 50 people to operate
That’s a massive team for one vessel. Its size also limits where it can dock—advance reservations are a must at participating marinas.
What safety considerations come with a yacht this size?
Yachts this large need significant clearance for bridges and shipping lanes
For example, areas like the Kiel Canal are avoided entirely to prevent delays. It’s not just about size—it’s about navigating safely in busy waterways.
Does Sailing Yacht A hold any other records?
Yes, it holds the record for being the largest sailing-only yacht in the world
That said, the title of “largest yacht overall” still goes to the motor yacht Azzam (590 ft), built by Lürssen in 2013. Sailing Yacht A is all about the sails—no engines here.
How does Sailing Yacht A compare to other superyachts?
Sailing Yacht A is the largest sailing-only yacht, but Azzam (590 ft) is longer overall as a motor yacht
What sets Sailing Yacht A apart is its design—radical hull, carbon-fiber rigging, and that stealthy look. Most superyachts are motor-driven, but this one proves sailing can still be epic.
Why is Monaco a popular home port for superyachts like Sailing Yacht A?
Monaco’s popularity comes from its favorable tax policies and prestige as a luxury maritime hub
It’s not just about the scenery. The deep-water Port Hercule hosts major yachting events, and the tax benefits make it a top choice for billionaires.
What’s the most unique feature of Sailing Yacht A?
The most unique feature is probably its radar-absorbing materials and angular styling, earning it the nickname “The Stealth Yacht”
That’s not something you see every day. The Dubois hull form and carbon-fiber rigging push the limits of what’s possible in sailing yacht design.
How much did Sailing Yacht A cost to build?
Sailing Yacht A cost an estimated $800 million USD to build
For that price, you’d expect something pretty special—and you’d be right. It’s one of the most expensive yachts ever built, and it shows in every detail.
Who owns Sailing Yacht A?
Russian billionaire Andrey Melnichenko owns Sailing Yacht A
He’s the one who commissioned this floating masterpiece back in 2017. Unless you’ve got a few hundred million lying around, this isn’t your average weekend boat.
When was Sailing Yacht A completed?
Sailing Yacht A was completed and delivered in 2017
That’s when the world got its first look at this engineering marvel. Since then, it’s been making waves—literally—in the superyacht scene.
Edited and fact-checked by the MeridianFacts editorial team.
