The Top 10 Largest Sailing Yachts Afloat Today

1. SAILING YACHT A, 142.8m

The largest sailing yacht in the world, SAILING YACHT A is impossible to ignore. Delivered by Nobiskrug in 2017, she pairs three 100-metre carbon-fibre masts with a stark, futuristic profile penned by Philippe Starck. Officially classed as a sail-assisted motor yacht, her vast 12,600GT volume and hybrid propulsion system place her in a league of her own.

2. KORU, 127m

Built by Oceanco and delivered in 2023, KORU is the largest sailing yacht ever constructed in the Netherlands. Designed by Dykstra Naval Architects and Lateral Naval Architects, she features three towering masts and a classic profile. Her name, derived from the Māori word for new beginnings, reflects a new chapter in large-scale sailing yacht design.

3. BLACK PEARL, 106.7m

A pioneer of sustainable superyachting, BLACK PEARL was delivered by Oceanco in 2018. Her three DynaRig masts support one of the most advanced sail systems afloat, enabling transatlantic crossings under sail alone. With regenerative energy systems and a sophisticated onboard power management setup, she remains one of the greenest yachts of her size.

4. EOS, 92.92m

Launched by Lürssen in 2006, the elegant three-masted schooner EOS held the title of world’s largest sailing yacht at the time of her delivery. Designed externally by Langan Design Partners with interiors by François Catroux, she combines traditional grace with impressive capability, thanks to her 2019 refit.

5. ATHENA, 90m

Royal Huisman’s ATHENA, delivered in 2004, channels the spirit of classic 1900s schooners on a 90-metre scale. Designed by Pieter Beeldsnijder and Dykstra Naval Architects, she is capable of reaching 19 knots under sail, proving that heritage styling and performance can coexist at superyacht dimensions.

6. MALTESE FALCON, 88m

An icon of modern sailing, MALTESE FALCON revolutionised yacht design with her automated square-rigged DynaRig system. Delivered by Perini Navi in 2006, her three rotating carbon-fibre masts carry 15 sails, offering remarkable efficiency and manoeuvrability. She remains one of the most recognisable sailing yachts ever built.

7. AQUIJO, 86m

The world’s largest ketch-rigged sailing yacht, AQUIJO was delivered in 2016 following a collaboration between Oceanco and Vitters. Designed for global cruising, her 88.4-metre main mast and vast sail plan allow her to exceed 20 knots. Interiors by Dölker + Voges balance her performance credentials with luxurious liveability.

8. SEA EAGLE, 81m

Delivered by Royal Huisman in 2020, SEA EAGLE is the largest aluminium sailing yacht in the world by volume. With 3,500 square metres of sail and carbon rigging by Rondal, she combines sleek aesthetics with real passagemaking capability. Her black hull and expansive deck spaces give her an aesthetically  commanding presence.

9. M5, 77.6m

Originally launched as MIRABELLA V, M5 was built in the United Kingdom by Vosper Thornycroft with Ron Holland Design in 2004. Following extensive refits, she remains one of the most technically impressive sailing yachts afloat, boasting a towering mast and the ability to exceed 20 knots under sail.

10. BADIS I, 70m

Delivered by Perini Navi in 2016, BADIS I is peak performance with creative modern touches. Featuring a Sealium alloy hull and a variable-draught centreboard keel, she was among the largest sailing yachts built in Italy at the time. Advanced electric sail controls allow her to be handled directly from the cockpit consoles.

Together, these yachts illustrate how large-scale sailing continues to develop through innovation in materials, engineering and design. While vastly different in profile and purpose, each occupies a significant place in the progression of the modern sailing superyacht.