Need for Speed: The Fastest Superyachts Over 80 Metres in 2025

Genesis: Heesen’s 80m Flagship at 30 Knots
Delivered in 2023, the 80-metre Genesis (ex-Galactica, ex-Project Cosmos) is the undisputed speed king in her class. Built by Heesen Yachts, Genesis is the largest and fastest all-aluminium motor yacht ever constructed by the Dutch shipyard. Her sleek profile, courtesy of Winch Design, hints at the power beneath: four MTU 20V 4000 M73L engines deliver a combined 19,000hp, propelling Genesis to a remarkable top speed of almost 30 knots.

The yacht’s Fast Displacement Hull Form (FDHF), developed by Van Oossanen Naval Architects, ensures efficiency and stability at both high and low speeds. Onboard, Sinot Yacht Architecture & Design has created interiors that balance contemporary elegance with comfort, while standout features include a 7 metre glass-bottomed pool, a vast helipad that doubles as a sun terrace, and a beach club that opens on three sides to the sea. She’s a statement that, even at 80 metres, speed and style can coexist without compromise.

Madame Gu: Feadship's 99m at 24 Knots
Feadship’s Madame Gu is a true icon of performance and style in the near-100-metre category. Delivered in 2013, she reaches an impressive top speed of 24 knots, placing her among the fastest yachts ever built at this scale. Her propulsion system features four MTU 20V 4000 M93L engines, producing a combined 16,800 horsepower and driving controllable pitch propellers for optimal acceleration and cruising efficiency.

Madame Gu’s striking metallic blue hull and flowing exterior lines, crafted by Winch Design, are as functional as they are beautiful, reducing drag and enhancing hydrodynamics. Inside, Terence Disdale’s interiors provide a blend of contemporary luxury and comfort for up to 16 guests. The yacht is equipped with a fully certified helipad, a spacious beach club with fold-down terraces, and a glass elevator connecting all guest decks. Madame Gu seamlessly blends technical prowess, speed, and superyacht lifestyle.

Moonrise: Feadship's 100m at 19.5 Knots
At 100 metres, Feadship’s Moonrise is one of the fastest yachts in the 100-metre-plus segment, capable of reaching a top speed of approximately 19.5 knots. This impressive performance is delivered by twin MTU 16V 4000 M7 engines, generating around 9,000 horsepower. Her advanced hull design, featuring a near-vertical bow and an elongated waterline, is engineered for maximum hydrodynamic efficiency, allowing Moonrise to maintain high speeds with reduced fuel consumption and minimal noise.

Studio De Voogt’s exterior design combines visual impact with functional performance, while Studio Indigo’s interiors maximise natural light and space. Moonrise offers a dedicated wellness area with a gym, spa, and massage room, a generous beach club, a large tender garage, and accommodation for 16 guests. She exemplifies how technical innovation and luxury can coexist, even at the very top end of the market.

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As the superyacht industry continues to evolve, these vessels prove that the pursuit of speed is alive and well at the highest echelons of yacht building. Genesis, Madame Gu, and Moonrise each represent a unique blend of engineering, design, and ambition; delivering not just on luxury, but on the thrill of performance.

With new launches on the horizon and technology advancing rapidly, the next generation of 80m-plus superyachts promises even greater feats of speed and innovation. For those who crave both space and the ability to outrun the horizon, the future of large, fast superyachts has never looked more exciting.