The Most Iconic Yachts in the World
- Aug 21
- 14 min read
Updated: Sep 5
There’s a certain kind of silence you experience when you step onboard a great yacht at anchor.Â
It’s not the absence of sound - the sea still gently rolls as the breeze shifts the flag - but a specific type of presence in the world as few people know it.Â
No monitoring. No schedules. No rules except the ones you make.
In this stillness, history lingers.Â
Some yachts have been private witnesses to the world’s most intimate deals, its softly whispered love affairs and deeply personal celebrations.Â
Others are the physical expression of a vision - an architect’s line brought to life at impossible scale, or a billionaire’s daydream turned steel and teak.
To charter one is to acquire not just a vessel, but a story. And the finest among them are less like yachts and more attuned to chapters in a private atlas - each holding a fragment of a world that, for a brief time, becomes entirely yours.
What follows is a curated passage through some of the most remarkable yachts ever to grace the seas. From the polished brass of mid-century legends to the shimmering profiles of today’s new builds, each is included here for one reason: they are unforgettable not just for what they are, but for the lives they’ve touched and the journeys they’ve made possible.
CHRISTINA O
The Original Floating Salon
Before there were million-dollar builds with helicopter pads and infinity pools, there was Christina O - the yacht that invented the very idea of the floating playground for the world’s elite. She began life not as a symbol of indulgence but a Canadian frigate in World War II, ploughing through grey Atlantic swells in convoy.
When the war ended, she was due for scrap - until a certain Greek shipping magnate, Aristotle Onassis, saw something else in her steel frame. Onassis bought her for the price of scrap metal and spent millions transforming her into a seaborne stage where history would quietly bend itself.Â
Her decks saw Winston Churchill smoking with a whisky in hand and Elizabeth Taylor arguing (then reconciling) with Richard Burton under the Mediterranean stars. Heads of State came not for the sea air, but the rare opportunity to speak candidly, far from the ears of their aides.
Everything onboard was a gesture of theatre. The swimming pool floor, tiled in a mosaic of the Minotaur could hydraulically rise to become a dance floor by evening. The bar stools were upholstered in whale foreskin, a detail both outrageous and entirely of its time. And the yacht’s famous Ari’s Bar became a whispered confessional for the powerful and the glamorous alike.
Today, chartering Christina O isn’t about the most modern amenities or the highest cruising speed. It’s to slip into a lineage - walking the same teak as some of the 20th Century’s most compelling figures, and less a yacht charter than a portal.
For the few who step onboard, it’s impossible not to feel that a little of that original magic and mischief still hums in the air.
OCTOPUS
The Explorer’s Playground
Most yachts are built to be seen. Octopus was designed to disappear.Â
Commissioned by Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, she was never conceived as a Riviera showpiece. Instead, Allen - a man with both the means and the curiosity - wanted a vessel that could roam to the edges of the map and stay there, self-sufficient, for months.
When she launched in 2003, Octopus was less a yacht and more a private expedition base disguised as one. She carried not just a tender or two, but a full fleet. A submarine capable of diving to 300 metres, an ROV loaned for projects such as Google Earth's 'Explore the Ocean' and a helicopter hangar - one forward, one aft. There was a glass-bottom observation lounge for watching marine life glide beneath and an internal dock from which tenders could launch directly into the sea, sheltered from the weather.
Allen didn’t amass ports, he racked up monumental moments. In Antarctica, Octopus’s hull cut through ice as penguins stood aside on drifting floes. In Micronesia, Allen and his team located the wreck of the WWII battleship Musashi, thought lost to history. Off the coast of Argentina, she became the hub for scientists tagging and tracking elusive orcas. Every journey doubled as a private adventure and a research mission, blurring the line between leisure and legacy.
Since Allen’s passing, Octopus has entered the charter world - but her spirit hasn’t shifted. She still feels less like a holiday and more so a permission slip to vanish from civilisation, then re-emerge with stories worth telling.Â
For those who dream not of being seen, but of living what others can’t, she remains one of the most compelling invitations afloat.
BLACK PEARL
The Alchemist’s Dream
Where most yachts are formed from a commission, Black Pearl feels born from an obsession. Delivered in 2018, she is the fever dream of a visionary owner who wanted not only one of the largest sailing yachts ever built at 106 metres, but also one of the most technically audacious. Her dark, almost liquid-black hull slices through the water like a stroke of ink, while three towering masts carry one of the most advanced sail systems ever devised.
She’s a DynaRig schooner, meaning her sails unfurl from carbon fibre masts in minutes, harnessing wind power with an elegance that belies the complexity of her engineering. Under the right conditions, she can cross the Atlantic without burning a drop of fuel. This is not just green technology as a gesture - it is proof that scale and sustainability can share the same deck.
Yet she is far from an austere exercise in eco-consciousness. On the interior, Black Pearl is cinematic in the literal sense (there’s a movie theatre onboard) but they are also private, closely guarded and almost mythical in yachting circles. Guests speak of rich, layered textures, mirrored surfaces catching the light in unexpected ways, and spaces that shift from open breeziness to cloistered intimacy. She feels like an ocean-going lair, designed for someone who enjoys the world but prefers to observe it on their own terms.
Even her voyages feel part of her legend. She has slipped quietly between European ports in summer, crossed oceans in near silence and stood out in the crowded harbours of the Caribbean for her stillness - a vessel so self-assured she needs no fanfare.Â
In an industry obsessed with what’s next, Black Pearl already feels like she belongs to another time. Perhaps one we haven’t yet reached.
TALITHA
A Stunning Film Reel of the 20th Century
Talitha is remembered not just for her one of a kind design, but also her owners and the fact that stepping onboard can feel like walking into a sepia-toned photograph.Â
Originally built in 1929 by the German yard Krupp for the American financier Russell Alger, she began life as a symbol of the roaring ’20s, with sweeping lines, a tall funnel and a presence that belonged to an era when yachts were as much about elegance as they were about escape.
Her story turned cinematic, literally, when she passed through the hands of legendary entertainment impresario Robert Stigwood, the man behind Saturday Night Fever and Grease, renaming her Jezebel. For a time she was a fixture in the social calendars of the glamorous and the powerful, her decks hosting a swirl of movie stars, moguls and visiting dignitaries. Then, like so many great yachts, she disappeared into quieter years before being rediscovered and reborn.
The man who honoured Jezebel with her second act was none other than J. Paul Getty Jr., who undertook a meticulous restoration in the early 1990s, where she would be renamed Talitha G in memory of his late wife Talitha Getty. Under the design guidance of Jon Bannenberg, she was reimagined to capture the romance of her 1930s heyday while quietly integrating the comforts of a modern superyacht. Today, her interiors blend polished teak, rich fabrics and art deco details, as if the golden age of transatlantic travel never ended.
Cruising aboard Talitha is a shift in tempo guided by a legendary crew revered throughout the industry. Guests find themselves lingering over cocktails in the wood-panelled lounge, dining under soft lamplight on the aft deck, or simply watching the horizon from the sweeping foredeck. She moves at a stately pace, not because she must, but because she can - carrying with her the deliberate confidence of a yacht that has seen almost a century of history pass across her bow.
NERO
The Spirit of the 1930s, Reborn
If Talitha is a nod to classic elegance, then Nero is a loving tribute to a golden age of yachting that still commands attention nearly two decades after her launch.Â
She first hit the water in 2008, a sleek 90-metre beauty crafted by Corsair Yachts and her striking design was the vision of her original owner, British entrepreneur Neil Taylor, who sought to recreate the style of the 1930s classics.
But it’s the unmistakable bright yellow funnel that marks Nero as instantly recognisable, an exclamation point on the skyline wherever she drops anchor.
Unlike many yachts that prioritise sheer size or opulence, Nero champions personality and atmosphere. Her interiors, designed to feel like a cool, curated private club, allow guests to unwind in style without ceremony. The result is an experience that feels effortlessly modern, yet deeply personal - a reflection of her owner’s dynamic lifestyle.
Chartering Nero is to embrace a spirit of adventure and a penchant for the unconventional. She isn’t just a yacht to be seen on, she’s one to be experienced, where every corner tells a story and every moment is charged with vibrant energy.Â
In a sea of luxury vessels, Nero shines with unmistakable individuality and charisma, proving that sometimes the boldest choice makes the most lasting impression.
RISING SUN
The Pinnacle of Celebrity and Sophistication on the Water
Few yachts carry the aura of prestige and cultural cachet quite like Rising Sun.Â
Originally commissioned by tech mogul Larry Ellison and later acquired by Hollywood titan David Geffen, this 138-metre vessel is a symbol of two worlds converging: Silicon Valley innovation and the highest echelons of entertainment. Geffen took full ownership in 2010 after amassing a half-share in 2006.
Launched in 2004 by Lürssen, one of Germany’s most renowned shipbuilders, Rising Sun arrived on the scene during a period when mega-yachts began evolving beyond mere extravagance. Her bold, modernist exterior was designed by the late, legendary Jon Bannenberg, whose final project she was. Characterised by striking banks of floor-to-ceiling windows, her design speaks of a forward-thinking aesthetic.
David Geffen’s influence on Rising Sun is palpable. The yacht’s interiors balance timeless sophistication with modern comfort. Art collections, rare books and vintage music memorabilia hint at the yacht’s existence as a retreat for creativity and contemplation. It’s easy to picture legendary musicians, filmmakers and business moguls mingling in her grand salons or enjoying quiet moments on her expansive decks.
Yet Rising Sun is not solely about star-studded glamour. The yacht’s history is peppered with stories of intimate gatherings, high-level negotiations and escapes from the relentless pace of public life. Her impressive volume provides a sense of space that’s rare on the water - offering everything from a fully-equipped gym and spa facilities to an imposing swimming pool, basketball court and helipad, seamlessly integrated into the vessel’s clean lines.
The vessel’s itineraries have ranged from the glistening coasts of the French Riviera to the secluded atolls of the South Pacific, reflecting the eclectic tastes of her owners. Each journey onboard Rising Sun promises discretion, luxury and the rare freedom to unwind far from the public eye.
Experiencing Rising Sun isn’t just about luxury - it’s a welcome into a world where innovation, celebrity and visionary craftsmanship collide. And for those seeking more, she offers a narrative of cultural patronage and enduring design that few vessels can match.
LADY LARA
A Yacht of Hidden Depths and Quiet Power
A paradox of power and discretion, Lady Lara was commissioned by a visionary owner who wanted a yacht that elegantly whispered its strength, and was to become a masterclass in subtlety and purpose.
Built by Lürssen in 2015, she was crafted with a rare focus on engineering excellence and unlike many yachts that prioritise an elaborate design, Lady Lara’s naval architecture allows her to reach top speeds of 17-18 knots, expertly combining a steel hull and amenities worthy of a refined retreat.
Her interiors are a masterwork of bespoke design by Reymond Langton, with opulent and expansive spaces where light and texture take centre stage. What’s more, the layout was specifically designed to offer privacy to the owner’s family, while also accommodating up to 12 guests for charter and a crew of 26, allowing for seamless service without intrusion.
Lady Lara’s story is also marked by moments of quiet exclusivity. She has been spotted quietly moored in some of the world’s most secluded coves, places where other superyachts rarely venture. Rumour has it that she was one of the very few yachts present during private gatherings of some of the world’s most influential figures, her reputation as a discreet sanctuary well-earned.
Perhaps what truly sets Lady Lara apart is the personality behind her - a yacht that refuses to be defined by flash but instead is built for those who value the experience of freedom at sea, speed when desired, and a home away from home that blends elegance with a globally capable performance.
Lady Lara invites you to reconsider what a superyacht can be - not just a symbol of wealth, but a vessel that moves with purpose, style and unspoken stories beneath her polished exterior.
O'PARI
A Contemporary Ode to Opulence
O’Pari is the embodiment of a bold vision that reshaped the very idea of what a contemporary yacht could be.Â
Launched in 2020 by Golden Yachts in Athens, O’Pari was commissioned by a discerning owner who sought to blend the timeless craftsmanship of the Greek yard with a radical, modern aesthetic.
At 95 metres, she doesn’t overwhelm with size but captivates through daring design. The yacht’s design was shaped by Studio Vafiadis and features clean, angular lines that give O’Pari a striking, almost architectural presence on the water. Inside, the designers focussed on high-end comfort and lavish amenities including two swimming pools, a cinema with additional viewing experience on the sundeck, and zen-like beach club.
What truly sets O’Pari apart is the story behind her beginning. At a time when many yachts were designed simply for excess, O’Pari arrived with a refreshingly artistic build that balanced sophistication and refined luxury. The interior’s open-plan layout creates a sense of flow and transparency rarely seen on yachts, fostering connection between guests and the sea itself.
Beyond design, O’Pari has advanced stabilisation systems and fuel-efficient engines which has made her a favourite amongst guests who appreciate not only style and comfort but responsibility at sea.
Her voyage history adds further intrigue. O’Pari has been spotted exploring some of the Mediterranean’s lesser-known harbours and venturing to exclusive island hideaways where privacy and discovery go hand in hand. This isn’t a yacht that craves the spotlight - instead, she’s quietly earned a reputation among insiders as a vessel that offers an immersive, personal experience.
To step aboard O’Pari is to enter a world where innovation meets tradition, luxury is measured by thoughtful design and the freedom of the open water. She remains a benchmark for those seeking a yacht with a story as compelling as its silhouette.
FLYING FOX
The Wellness Giant
Flying Fox is both one of the world’s largest yachts, and a quiet revolution in what luxury at sea can mean.Â
Launched by Lürssen in 2019, the vessel was a passion project for her private owner, a Russian entrepreneur who had already owned several yachts. Having experienced first-hand the shortcomings of previous vessels, he embarked on a mission to build something special that combined everything he had learned, pushing the boundaries of what a charter yacht could offer.
The owner's mission resulted in an exceptionally detailed spa layout, which was tested and developed to be fully immersive. She is complete with a world-first cryosauna and other state-of-the-art thermal and therapeutic facilities, catering to the needs of the world’s most discerning wellness travellers.
After its completion, Flying Fox was introduced to the charter market and quickly gained a reputation as the world's largest and costliest charter yacht at the time. This allowed guests to experience its rare blend of luxury and tranquility.
However, the yacht's charter operations were later disrupted by a scandal involving its management company, which led to the temporary freezing of its assets due to sanctions. This period of controversy only added to the yacht's mystique, reinforcing its status as a vessel for the world's elite operating far from the public eye. After the sanctions were lifted and the yacht engaged with new management, its legendary reputation as a discreet sanctuary was restored.
Beyond her physical features, Flying Fox’s crew are trained in subtle hospitality and it's this almost invisible service, coupled with the serene spaces and panoramic views, that turns a charter into a retreat from the noise of the world.
Beneath her colossal size beats the heart of a true sanctuary. One designed to restore both body and mind at sea.
LADY JORGIA ( EX AHPO)
Engineering Masterpiece with a Quiet Environmental Conscience
When AHPO was listed for sale in February 2023, she immediately drew attention as one of the most significant yachts on the market. Just three months later, she sold for a reported €330 million - a figure widely regarded as one of the largest brokerage deals in superyacht history. Upon changing hands, the yacht was renamed Lady Jorgia.
Built by Lürssen and delivered in 2021, she was developed as an upgrade to the original owner's previous vessel, Quattroelle, with a clear brief for an even more striking and luxurious design.
Lady Jorgia's opulent and detailed design can be attributed to Nuvolari Lenard who created a harmonious and family-focused interior filled with natural light, rich materials and note-worthy features. The spectacular two-story owner's suite, cinema complete with a starlit ceiling, and a tranquil, nature-themed spa featuring a large bamboo tree showcase meticulous attention to detail, with intricate woodwork, hand-stitched leather and bespoke finishes resulting in an atmosphere of grandeur and sophistication.
Lady Jorgia is an engineering masterpiece. Her hybrid propulsion and heat recovery systems are examples of how modern technology and luxury can coexist responsibly, where seamless performance and state-of-the-art systems define the experience of life at sea.
LADY S
Cinematic Soul
Lady S was inspired by a private collector’s lifelong love of film and storytelling, and brought to life complete with sleek lines and luxury finishes.Â
The vessel’s entire structure was engineered around its two-deck, certified IMAX Dolby cinema - the very first ever installed on a superyacht. This is a feat of design and engineering, where an entertainment space of unprecedented quality at sea was meticulously insulated to block all engine noise and vibration.
Beyond its cinematic heart, Lady S is a masterpiece of bespoke luxury. The owner's love for entertainment is manifested in a sports court, a golf simulator and an interactive dance floor.
The yacht’s ambience shifts subtly as day turns to night, with carefully orchestrated lighting that adds to the dramatic, theatrical feel. Reymond Langton's interior is a symphony of light-toned quilted maple and sumptuous fabrics, punctuated by dazzling chandeliers that evoke the sparkle of fine jewels. The result is an ambience that feels both high-energy and intimately serene.
Entertaining onboard is always an event, but it’s the quiet moments - a sunset from the aft deck with a classic film soundtrack playing softly for example - that reveal Lady S’s true character, where every detail invites guests to lose themselves in cinematic reverie and a rich, immersive experience forged for entertainment and elegance.
KISMET
The Billionaire’s Playground Meets Unassuming Elegance
Kismet’s grandeur is well known, but what’s less spoken of is how deeply personal and experimental the yacht is to its owner - a canvas for private passions, from art installations to cutting-edge technology.
The vessel’s basketball court was inspired by the owner’s childhood love of the game and designed with a court specialist who incorporated the feel of an NBA arena. Similarly, the onboard cinema and music studios have hosted intimate performances by world-class artists, many arranged spontaneously by the owner’s network of creative friends.
What truly sets Kismet apart is her blend of formality and whimsy - dignified dining rooms sit alongside playful lounges filled with puzzles and games. The yacht’s crew perfectly understand the rhythm of the owner’s lifestyle, shifting effortlessly from hosting lavish soirées to quiet family holidays.
Beneath the luxury is the opportunity for adventure where creativity and comfort collide, designed to nurture moments of joy in every corner.
RENAISSANCE
The Modern Classic Built to Carry Stories Forward
Though Renaissance launched in 2023, she carries a lineage in her name and design that evokes yachting’s golden age.Â
The owner, a savvy investor and high-value collector, wanted a yacht that blended classic, honest aesthetics with a contemporary luxury experience. A long-time client of the late, legendary designer Jon Bannenberg, the project was passed onto his son, Dickie Bannenberg, after decades of planning. This created a seamless link to classic design principles, which were then reimagined by Bannenberg + Rowell for the modern era.
Renaissance’s interiors hide countless personal touches: from a curated art collection, and custom-commissioned pieces to guest cabins themed after different cities. This design approach was intentional, meant to avoid a "maze of identical rooms" and give each space its own purpose and flow. The owner even included multiple desks and a dedicated business centre to make the yacht a functional workspace.
Renaissance’s story is also one of reinvention. While she embraces classic aesthetics, she’s packed with the latest tech to ensure smooth, silent cruising and effortless handling. This is thanks in part to her ice-classed capabilities and hybrid-capable systems, allowing for efficient, long-range journeys without sacrificing comfort.
Guests onboard quickly understand: Renaissance is a vessel not just to be admired but to be lived in and loved - a space where stories old and new converge.
SALTE readers can enjoy access to preferential charter rates and special onboard experiences available exclusively to Seven Access members.