Blog

Top Yacht Builders to Watch Out for in 2023

The design and build of a luxury superyacht is a truly remarkable process. Whether a modern refurbishment or an entirely new superyacht concept, luxury yacht owners seek the best from their naval architects. While superyachts are the epitome of luxury, the broader shipbuilding industry, including the construction of a cruise ship, also requires cutting-edge design and innovation to meet the demands of modern travelers.

Today’s yacht builders must truly understand their client’s vision, translating their dream yacht design into a reality, from state-of-the naval architecture to exquisite interior design. Luckily for these discerning yacht owners, there is an impressive selection of innovative yacht builders dedicated to creating yachting masterpieces. 

Which shipyards are considered the most innovative?

Some of the world’s most innovative shipyards include both European and US-based shipyards. Leading superyacht builders include Lürssen, Heesen, Oceanco, Amels, and Sunreef. 

Take a look below at the leading boat builders at the cutting edge of superyacht construction.

5 innovative superyacht construction companies 

1 – Lürssen, Germany  

Lürssen is one of the world’s leading yacht builders, located in Bremen, northern Germany. Founded in 1875, Lürssen yachts has produced some of the most exquisite and luxurious vessels,  for over a century, including the iconic 180-meter (590 ft) M/Y AZZAM. From exclusive yachts to commercial ships and sailboats, Lürssen has established itself as a leader in superyacht construction.

Lürssen’s high-end vessels are designed in collaboration with renowned naval architects and yacht designers, emphasizing quality and innovation. Each vessel is designed to meet the owner’s individual needs, focusing on style, comfort at sea, and performance. In addition to superyachts, Lürssen has also made significant contributions to the design and construction of larger vessels, including cruise ships and commercial ships, showcasing their versatile shipbuilding expertise.

While many yachting enthusiasts are keen to try out battery-powered vessels, the world’s most forward-thinking shipyards, including Lürssen, are already exploring next-generation technology, making fuel cells one of the biggest industry trends. With fuel cells, yachts can anchor emission-free for 14 days and cruise at a low speed for more than 1,000 nautical miles. 

2 – Heesen, Netherlands 

Heesen Shipyard is a renowned Dutch shipyard that has been in business for over 40 years. It is well-known for its yachting innovations in the 30- to 65-meter range (98 to 213 ft), with vessels carefully crafted from the finest materials to provide a luxurious experience. 

Heesen has established itself as a leader in superyacht construction thanks to its commitment to innovation and the use of cutting-edge technology. The company’s signature design feature is its patented aluminum alloy, which is lighter and more resilient than traditional steel. This unique material allows the shipyard to build faster and more fuel-efficient vessels than their counterparts, equipped with the latest technology.

The company’s iconic yachts, including the 65-meter (213 ft) GALACTICA STAR, symbolize luxury and style. Heesen’s naval architects are highly skilled in the art of customizing vessels, making them the perfect choice for those seeking a bespoke experience. Each yachting innovation is designed with comfort and pleasure in mind, offering spacious decks, luxurious interiors, and plenty of amenities.

3 – Oceanco, Netherlands 

Oceanco is an esteemed Dutch shipyard crafting some of the most iconic yachts on the planet. Founded in 1987, the company has built over 50 superyachts for private customers, with some of them exceeding 100 meters in length (328 ft) and worth more than $200 million each.

From the record-breaking 106.7-meter (350ft) BLACK PEARL, one of the largest and most ecological sailing yachts on the planet, to the sleek and elegant 109-meter (357.6 ft) motor yacht BRAVO EUGENIA, Oceanco has established itself as one of the foremost names in superyacht construction. Their yachts are built with the highest engineering and design standards, making them stand out amongst the rest.

In addition to its flagship yachts, Oceanco also produces a range of smaller vessels, including luxury motor yachts, sailing yachts, and expedition vessels. 

4 – Amels, Netherlands 

Amels operates the largest boatyard in the Netherlands and is considered one of the most innovative boatyards. The yacht builder’s superyacht constructions have become a symbol of luxury due to their quality craftsmanship and attention to detail for over a century. 

Amels is an industry leader in custom yachts up to 100-meters (328 ft) plus, and their boats are admired for their precise engineering and sophisticated design. The shipyard’s 60 and 80-meter Limited Editions are sophisticated, timeless classics built on a  proven platform. 

Amels yachts are built with a range of materials and technologies, from stainless steel to advanced composite materials, to create state-of-the-art vessels that are both efficient and green. Their commitment to quality and innovation has earned them a well-deserved reputation as one of the top yacht builders in the world.

5 – Sunreef, Poland 

Sunreef Yachts is a Poland-based builder of luxury cruising catamarans and superyachts. Founded in 2002, the innovative shipyard has become one of the world’s most renowned and respected boat manufacturers. 

Sunreef has been at the forefront of eco-innovation for the past few years, creating one of the most advanced catamarans in green technology. 

Sunreef 80 Eco is an eco-responsible luxury vessel that combines electric propulsion with unrivaled cruising performance. Acting as a second ‘skin,’ the catamarans solar panels cover 164 square meters (1765 sq ft) and can be placed in any part of the vessel, including the mast and boom.

Thanks to the yacht’s proprietary solar power system, the vessel can generate up to 45,5kWp, while the 80 Eco’s ultralight battery bank – 30% lighter than other commonly used nautical batteries – ensures weight and performance efficiency. 

The shipbuilding industry is ever-evolving, with shipyards worldwide striving to create bigger, faster, and more efficient vessels than ever before. 

Contact your yacht brokerage to learn more about buying or chartering a yacht from one of these renowned yacht builders at the cutting-edge of boat building.

Show More

Related Articles

Back to top button