Get ready for a journey into the realm of luxury and opulence as we introduce you to the world’s largest private yacht, Azzam. This magnificent vessel is a marvel of modern yacht design and a symbol of unmatchable affluence.
The Ownership of Azzam
The Azzam, an extravagant display of wealth and luxury, is owned by Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the United Arab Emirates and the Emir of Abu Dhabi. As the leader of one of the wealthiest nations in the world, it’s no surprise that Sheikh Khalifa would spare no expense when it comes to his private yacht.
A Glimpse into Azzam’s Grandeur
The Azzam, at an astonishing 180 meters (590 feet) in length, took the title of the world’s largest private yacht from the Eclipse, a 162.5-meter-long yacht previously owned by Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich. The Azzam was launched on April 5, 2013, after four years of construction by the renowned German shipbuilding company, Lürssen Yachts.
Luxury Meets Speed: The Features of Azzam
This colossal yacht is not only about size; it’s equally about speed. Azzam is designed to reach a top speed of 31.5 knots, making it one of the fastest yachts of its size. The yacht’s exterior design is a work of the celebrated Italian yacht designer, Luigi Sturchio, while its sophisticated interior is the masterpiece of French designer, Christophe Leoni.
Stepping aboard Azzam, one is greeted by an opulent main salon measuring 29 meters long by 18 meters wide, with no pillars to obstruct the view. The yacht features a substantial suite of lavish amenities, including numerous luxury cabins, spas, a gym, and even a submarine with a missile defense system.
The Elusive Lifestyle of Azzam’s Owner
As might be expected of someone with such a valuable asset, Sheikh Khalifa leads a very private life, and not much is known about his use of the yacht. However, given Azzam’s vast array of features and capabilities, it’s safe to say that whether he’s entertaining dignitaries, cruising the waters of the Persian Gulf, or exploring more distant waters, he’s doing it in grand style.
An In-depth Look at Azzam’s Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Builder | Lurssen Shipyard, Bremen, Germany |
| Launch Date | April 2013 |
| Delivery Date | October 2013 |
| Owner | Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Abu Dhabi |
| Construction Cost | Approximately $600 million |
| Exterior Design | Nauta Design |
| Interior Design | Christophe Leoni |
| Length | 180 meters |
| Beam | 20.8 meters |
| Draft | Maximum of 4.3 meters |
| Hull Material | Steel |
| Gross Tonnage | Approximately 14,000 tonnes |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | One million liters |
| Main Salon Size | 29 meters in length and 18 meters in width, with no support pillars |
| Accommodation | Approximately 50 suites with no large open spaces on the deck, Interior design incorporates the Empire Style |
| Number of Decks | Six (based on initial photo releases) |
| Crew Capacity | Accommodation for at least 50 professional crew members |
| Engine | Two gas turbines and two diesel engines with a rated power output of 23,500hp |
| Top Speed | 31.5 knots |
| Eco-Friendly Features | Decreased carbon dioxide, noise, and soot emissions, as well as enhanced fuel efficiency, and waste heat from the engine used to operate the yacht’s desalination system for drinking water |
Conclusion
The Azzam is more than just a yacht; it’s a testament to human ingenuity, a tangible manifestation of power and status, and an icon of the ultra-luxurious lifestyle. While there’s always the possibility that a larger, even more luxurious yacht may one day claim the title, for now, Azzam holds its position as the king of private yachts.
