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Boat vs. Ship vs Yacht: What’s the Difference?

Language is a tricky thing, and picking out the differences between similar terms can be confusing. This is especially true when some of the definitions overlap. This is the case with the case of boat vs. ship vs. yacht . What’s the difference? We know in our gut that there are differences between these three seafaring vessels, but unless you’re a harbor master do you really know what counts as what?

Let’s get into some definitions, and we’re going to start with the easiest to explain: What is a yacht? What is a ship? And what is a boat?

Yacht vs. Ship vs. Boat

What is a yacht.

A yacht, I think everyone would agree, is fancier than a ship or a boat. “Yacht” infers some amount of luxury , and definitely recreation. There’s also something to be said about size. A yacht tends to be anywhere between 35 feet up to 160 feet. And some yachts, known as superyachts, go even beyond that. (Jeff Bezos just built a 417 foot yacht, but that’s really breaking yacht records.)

Because of the size, yachts tend to operate in larger bodies of water–generally the ocean. Yachts are able to handle rougher ocean waves, and they are also equipped with more advanced navigation and guidance instruments than smaller boats. Likewise, a yacht tends to have a full crew to help with the navigation, engineering, repairs, as well as having stewards that serve the yacht’s guests. This can be anywhere from a crew of four or five up to a crew of a few dozen on large yachts. 

One interesting thing to note is that outside of the United States, a yacht refers to a sailboat , and a motorized yacht is called a “motor yacht”. 

So, is a yacht a boat? Yes, technically a yacht is a boat. But a yacht is a very specific kind of boat.

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What is a Ship?

The term ship is most commonly associated with a very large boat, and something that is not as fancy as a yacht (one exception is that cruise ships can still be very fancy, but are referred to as ships because of their size and power.)

Ships are generally so large that they would never be found in a lake, with some exceptions for the Great Lakes, and are made for navigating the high seas of the open ocean. An ship can refer to a cruise ship, a naval ship, a tanker, a container ship, and many other commercial vessels.

Ships tend to have advanced navigation and technology, but much more advanced than that of a yacht due to the size, the speed, and the routes that a ship will take. They are meant to be traversing the open ocean for very long periods of time, from one continent to the next, while a yacht may only rarely set across the ocean and most often stays somewhat near land. 

A ship will also have a much larger crew than a yacht or a boat. Ships are typically so large that they need not only one trained navigator but a set of navigators, plus an entire engineering team, and includes many more positions. 

Finally, a ship is meant to carry things. This may be passengers, yes (in reference to cruise ships and some navy ships) but most ships are for carrying cargo–or even carrying equipment to do work on other ships including repair work or refueling. 

What is a Boat?

Well, a boat is harder to define, because a yacht is technically a boat, and a ship is technically a boat. But when people refer to boats, they are almost always referring to something smaller than either a yacht or a ship. Boats may be motorized, like a speed boat, or they may sail, or they may be man-powered, like a rowboat or a kayak. Really, anything up to and including a liferaft, can be called a boat.

(As a side note that will just muddy the waters even further, submarine captains are adamant that their subs are boats. They are not ships.)

So, Boat vs. Ship Vs. Yacht?

Ultimately it comes down to this: all three of them are boats, but yachts are fancier, larger, and used for recreation, and ships are even larger, used commercially or by the navy, and are meant to cross oceans. The dividing line is sometimes thin, but generally speaking, when it comes to boats vs. ships.vs. yachts you can go by the adage “ I know it when I see it .”

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Yachts vs. Boats: What are the Differences?

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Last Updated on April 13, 2022 by Boatsetter Team

Many people use the words “boat” and “yacht” interchangeably, and some lean on the latter to make their ride sound more impressive. But what are the key differences between boats and yachts?

First, let’s look at some broad definitions of a boat, a yacht, and other related vessels.

• “Boat” can refer to just about any kind of vessel— towboat , fishing boat , center console , houseboat , and so on.
• “Dinghy” designates a small boat with a human or wind means of propulsion including a rowing dinghy or sailing dinghy. It also refers to a tender to a bigger boat or yacht.
• “Ship” is a large commercial boat, often used for distance travel and transport of goods or passengers – cruise ship, container ship, etc.
• “Yacht” is typically a larger boat with luxury amenities used as a recreational vessel— motor yacht , sailing yacht .
• “Superyacht” is a large yacht and is often also called a mega yacht . The delineation used to be at 80-feet but again, with today’s size creep, anything under 100 feet would just simply be called a yacht.

So, yacht or boat? Let’s dive deeper into the elements that differentiate a boat from a yacht.

Own a Boat or a Yacht? Learn How to Offset the Cost of Ownership by Listing on Boatsetter

Size of the Vessel

Some place a hard line at 35 feet. Below that, you have a boat and above, it’s a yacht. However, that’s an artificial differentiator.

Just 30 years ago, a 30-foot boat was considered large and could have been a yacht but as recreational boats grow longer, the term yacht has been pushed up the scale.

That said, a well-kept 40-foot boat designed for recreation can technically still be called a yacht (although larger vessels are likely to cost more, price isn’t a good indicator of yacht status primarily because it fluctuates with brand, age, and amenities).

Check out local yacht rentals near you to understand how size plays a difference.

What it’s Used For

A yacht is a vessel designed for recreational purposes. It generally operates on open waters (rather than small lakes or rivers) and has accommodations for overnight guests.

A cruise ship, on the other hand, accommodates a large number of passengers in a commercial setting whereas a yacht carries a smaller number (of paying or non-paying) passengers for private recreation.

Onboard Technology

Advanced technology for navigation, communications, and system operation as well as redundant systems for safety can be found on a yacht that is likely to venture farther.

Again, there are caveats because today’s towboats that are fun day boats also feature technology such as GPS and digital switching that integrates many electrical and electronic features.

Propulsion Types

This is a tricky one. “Yacht” comes from the Dutch word “jaght” which referred to a sailing vessel that was used by the navy to capture pirate ships and later for recreation by the affluent.

Today, a yacht can be a large sailing vessel or a motor yacht. All larger yachts will have a motor for propulsion whether they have sails or not. Sailboats by design have smaller motors so trying to put a horsepower minimum on yacht propulsion is simply inaccurate.

Some define a yacht as having multiple crews to operate the vessel and tend to passengers or guests. The larger the yacht, the more crew will be required to navigate, maintain and service the vessel. That said, a couple who owns a 50-footer can call their boat a yacht although it’s owner-operated.

Luxury and Amenities

This is perhaps the best measure of a yacht. If the vessel offers accommodations, a galley , a head , and is luxurious in its presentation, it’s most likely a yacht.

That said, there are lots of center console fishing boats and towboats that are pretty nicely equipped these days and they wouldn’t be called a yacht.

All yachts are boats, but not all boats are yachts—and the lines are blurry. The word yacht elicits images of posh seafaring experiences while a boat evokes ideas of fun and perhaps work. Do some research to learn what size and type of boat or yacht is best for you .

To a degree, the point at which a boat becomes a yacht is in the ear of the beholder but if you focus on size, amenities, and the type of use, you’ll be able to discern the difference. Then all that remains is to find a way to spend time and have fun on any kind of vessel.

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Zuzana Prochazka is an award-winning freelance journalist and photographer with regular contributions to more than a dozen sailing and powerboating magazines and online publications including Southern Boating, SEA, Latitudes & Attitudes and SAIL. She is SAIL magazines Charter Editor and the Executive Director of Boating Writers International. Zuzana serves as judge for SAIL’s Best Boats awards and for Europe’s Best of Boats in Berlin. 

A USCG 100 Ton Master, Zuzana founded and manages a flotilla charter organization called Zescapes that takes guests adventure sailing at destinations worldwide. 

Zuzana has lived in Europe, Africa and the United States and has traveled extensively in South America, the islands of the South Pacific and Mexico. 

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What’s the Difference Between a Boat and a Yacht?

If you’re in the market for a new boat, you may be weighing your options between a powerboat, a yacht, or something else. But what’s the difference? To help you choose a craft that best suits your lifestyle and needs, this article is going to weigh the main differences between a boat and a yacht.

Boats and Yachts

With so many different types of yachts to choose from, it can be hard to know your Flybridges from your Tri-Decks if you’re just starting your search. Although there is a growing number of terms used to describe the different types of yachts out there, many of the terms overlap or are used interchangeably.

If you’re on the market for a yacht, the team here at Van Isle Marina has compiled a review of the different terms you’ll likely come across when cruising through yachts for sale .

The term ‘boat’ is used to describe any water vessel, propelled by either sails, an engine, or manpower. It’s not very specific, which means yachts, dingeys, and everything in between technically falls under the blanket term ‘boat’.

The term ‘yacht’ brings a little more prestige and sophistication with its origin story, being derived from the word “hunter” in Dutch. Hundreds of years ago, the Dutch navy built and sailed yachts to literally hunt down pirate ships in shallow waters. That’s part of the reason why both powerboats and sailboats can be classified as ‘yachts. It didn’t take long for other nations to catch on, using the Dutch idea for navy ships and eventually racing vessels and private, recreational vessels.

The size is one of the most common factors used to determine whether a boat should be classified as a yacht or not. When it comes to size, there are no official rules, so it depends on who you ask. Some will say the boat needs to be at least 35 feet to qualify as a yacht – others will say even longer. If you’re yacht is more than 75 feet, you’re approaching Super Yacht range, and if it’s more than 250 feet you’re in Mega Yacht territory.

Despite the uncertainty around size-based classification, typically, you’ll know it when you see it. That massive vessel that looks like it could sleep a 10+ and needs a dozen ropes to secure it to the dock? That’s definitely a yacht. And that small, single-level boat with not a lot of room to stand? That’s definitely a boat.

The downside of using size as the only determining factor is it’s black and white. If you set the boundaries with size, there’s no room for gray area. Let’s explore more…

Luxury Living

Yachts are an international symbol of luxury and wealth around the world. The yacht is synonymous with luxury, which can actually help us when classifying boats as yachts or not. If the boat is built with luxury top of mind, it is probably a yacht.

How do you spot luxury? From the shore, the exterior of a yacht is typically sleeker with distinct accent styles. But the real luxury becomes evident when you step on board. Yachts are built with spacious living areas, full size kitchen and bathrooms, advanced TV and audio systems, and designer-style furnishings. You might even find hot tubs, a pool, and a helicopter pad in ultra-luxurious cases.

If you’re closing in on the purchase of your new boat and you’re still unsure whether it’s a yacht or not, the price tag should give you some indication. Yachts are known to cost far more than boats, due to their level of luxury and comfort, size, and usage. For a brand-new yacht, you can easily pay $100,000+ per foot, which means you’re looking at millions of dollars for the total price.

There are other costs to consider as well. Because yachts are larger, most will require a professional crew (or at least a captain) on board. Then there’s maintenance and insurance, both of which will cost more for a yacht.

Another key differentiator between boats and yachts is what their purpose – what they’re being used for out on the water. There is no nailed down definition of what makes a yacht a yacht, but most boaters consider a yacht to be any type of sea vessel that is used strictly for recreational or pleasure purposes like cruising , entertaining, water sports, fishing , or year-round accommodations.

The only purpose of a yacht is recreation. But more specifically, yachts are designed for personal pleasure and leisure, whether that’s long, ocean-crossing journeys or anchoring near a buzzing port town.

On the other hand, if the vessel is doing a job or being used for a specific activity, it’s not a yacht. If the boat is involved in any commercial activity, it’s only a boat. Even if it’s being used recreationally, for example fishing or watersports, the boat is still a boat.

Handling Conditions

When you’re out on the open ocean, you’ll have high winds and dangerous waters to deal with. In these conditions, size will definitely work to your advantage. And while you’re closer to shore, you can expect the conditions to be much calmer.

When it comes to dealing with conditions, one worthwhile classification system places boats into one of 4 categories, labelled A through D:

Class A : These are large yachts capable of handling high winds (force 8 on the Beaufort scale) and up to 13-foot waves in the open ocean. These boats are certainly yachts and are built for the open ocean.

Class B : While these yachts aren’t quite designed for the open ocean, they’re very capable craft. Also known as “ offshore vessels ”, Class B yachts are best suited for waters less than 200 miles (321km) from shore.

Class C : Class C boats are typically known as ‘boats’, as they’re designed for inshore and nearshore excursions – not the open ocean. These boats are fine with waves a few feet high, but anything higher than that is dangerous.

Class D : These boats are typically small ones and are not built for harsh conditions. These craft can handle winds of up to 25km/hour and waves just a couple feet high.

Types of Yachts

A yacht is first defined either as a sailing yacht, motor yacht, or gulet yacht, and then as a sports yacht or luxury yacht.

• Sailing Yacht: a yacht mainly propelled via wind and sails
• Motor Yacht: a yacht propelled via one or more motors
• Gulet Yacht: a hybrid yacht with both sails and motors
• Open Yacht, Cruiser, Cabin Cruiser, Express Cruiser: an otherwise uncategorized standard yacht for cruising and entertaining
• Luxury Yacht: a yacht that includes high-end finishes and features and the latest in modern performance technology. The term ‘luxury’ can precede any type of yacht, i.e. “luxury motor yacht”, “luxury sailing yacht”, etc.
• Sports Yacht : a yacht geared towards fishing, water sports, or cruising with a sleeker design and more powerful motor for faster cruising speeds. The term ‘sports’ can precede other types of yachts as well, i.e. “sports motor yacht”.
• Catamaran Yacht: a yacht with two hulls (pontoons) often made of fiberglass that can be used in shallow waters.

Yacht Style Categories

Yachts can further be grouped or defined according to their form and function, such as with flybridge, sedan, pilot house, and sportfish yachts, for example.

• Classic Motor Yacht: a yacht that was built between the 1920s and 1970s (before today’s modern technology began dominating modern yacht manufacturing). A modern yacht can be built based on the classic motor yacht style.
• Sedan: a popular yacht style with deck space above the hull and living quarters below. The living quarters of a sedan yacht are enclosed and single-level.
• Flybridge: a sedan-style yacht with an open deck and more comfortable living space above the main bridge of a vessel.
• Daybridge: a multi-level yacht that is even more open than a flybridge. Belize Motoryachts are known for creating this distinctive style of yacht.
• Open or Enclosed: a term used to describe the layout of and access to the flybridge. In an enclosed flybridge, access to the above flybridge is enclosed inside the living space. In an open flybridge, access to the flybridge above is open to the elements.
• Downeast Style: a low-profile yacht with a large working cockpit and small helm station. This highly recognizable style is inspired by the mid-1900s traditional Maine lobster boat. Back Cove yachts are a shining example of downeast-style inspired yachts.
• Pilothouse: A multi-deck yacht like a flybridge with a larger interior main deck.
• Sky Lounge: an enclosed area at the top of the vessel that provides the benefits of the view but with several amenities, protection from the elements, expansive windows and sometimes a sunroof.
• Cockpit Motor Yacht: a yacht with more cockpit space than deck space.
• Sportfish or Sport Fishing Yacht: A yacht used for fishing with a large cockpit, storage space, and the ability to handle rougher seas. These can also be referred to as Flybridge Sportfish or Sportfish Express and are built for longer durations out on the water.
• Convertible: a yacht that combines features of a standard motor yacht with a sportfish yacht to have entertaining space when you need it, and also fishing space when you need it.
• SUV: a yacht that combines features of a standard motor yacht and sport yacht.
• Tri-Decks : a superyacht with three levels of staggered, enclosed living space.
• Expedition Yachts: a large yacht with a deeper displacement hull for more stability and comfort during longer-range trips.

There are dozens of governing bodies, societies, and other organizations that set standards, classifications, and definitions in the world of boating. There are different authorities like this all over the world, so it’s a good idea to check-in with local groups or areas you plan to visit.

If you’re in the market for a new boat or yacht, head over to Van Isle Marina on Harbour Road in Sidney, BC. You can browse our selection of yachts for sale on our website, but be sure to stop by the marina to check out our facilities, fuel dock and Sea Glass Waterfront Grill .

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2320 Harbour Road, Sidney, British Columbia V8L 2P6 [email protected]

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What is the Difference Between a Boat and a Yacht?

Key differences between ‘boats’ and ‘yachts’.

Boats and yachts are two different types of watercraft normally used for a range of recreational and commercial activities. Whilst people tend to use these terms interchangeably, there are numerous distinct differences between a boat and a yacht. There are six main differences that you should bare in mind when looking at boats or yachts , to help you gain the best understanding. 

6 Differences Between Yachts and Boats

The first key difference between a boat and a yacht is their size. A yacht is typically bigger than a boat and whilst there is no strict definition of what a yacht is, the general consensus is that if it is over 40 feet in length, it is usually considered a yacht. Boats can also vary in size, starting from small dinghies to larger motorboats or ferries but as a whole are definitely smaller than yachts.

Typically, boats are used for more recreational activities including fishing, cruising and watersports. As well as this, they can be used for commercial use and transportation with cargo or ferries. This is why boats that aren’t ferries or cargo tend to have a smaller, more simplistic design. Each boat is designed specifically so they function for their activities. On the other hand, yachts are usually used for cruising, entertainment and pleasure. They are designed with a more aesthetic design in order to enhance the experience of passengers.

3. Luxury Features

Another factor that easily sets boats and yachts apart are their luxury facilities. In general, boats do not have luxury facilities and whilst they might have an underdeck area, this will only be small and not include any kind of ‘luxuries’. Yachts however are usually equipped with multiple luxury features including spacious cabins, full kitchens, multiple bathrooms, swimming pools, hot tubs, television systems and in some cases, even helipads. These are purposefully designed to heighten the onboard experience of passengers.

One thing you should expect to see when comparing yachts and boats is a difference in cost. Because boats are fit for a smaller, more simplistic purpose you should expect these to cost less than a yacht. You could, on average, buy a boat ranging from a few thousand pounds right up to £700,000 but a yacht would come at prices from about £100,000 to £10,000,000 . This is for many reasons including the size, purpose and functionality of a yacht compared to a boat.

5. Maintenance

Whilst it is important to consider the costs of buying a boat or a yacht , it is also important to consider the upkeep that is going to come with that. In general, a yacht requires more maintenance than boats due to them being larger and having more complex systems. They would require specialised cleaning, regular upkeep of their facilities including swimming pools, hot tubs, rooms etc and regular servicing of their mechanical systems. Boats would still need to undergo upkeep, but not to the extent that a yacht would. As a result, the price and work level are usually lower for boat maintenance .

6. Engine Power

The last difference to note between boats and yachts is the power of their engines. There are a lot of boats that won’t even have an engine, it could range from a small boat requiring manpower to operate to larger boats using wind and sails to move. Boats that do have an engine can reach quite high speeds and run for some periods of time, but their engine capacity is not comparable to a yacht. A yacht engine tends to be more powerful overall, which allows them to travel through rougher water and travel for very long periods of time.

Should I Buy Myself a Boat or a Yacht?

It is important to do your research about the boat or yacht you are looking to buy in order to make sure you are getting the watercraft fit for your purpose. If you are looking to partake in watersports or short trips, a boat is definitely more suitable for you. However, if you are looking for a more luxurious travel style then a yacht may be the one for you. 

If you are looking to sell or buy, Clipper Marine might be the perfect option for you. We have experience selling a range of yachts and boats and can offer our expertise when setting the asking price, marketing the boat to potential buyers.

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What Is a Yacht? How Is It Different from Other Boats?

Yachts come in all shapes and forms. But what really is a yacht? How will you know if you are looking at a yacht or just a boat with impressive features? In this article, I’ll describe what is a yacht and how it is different from other boats.

What is a yacht?  A yacht is a water vessel used for recreation, racing, or cruising – for private or business purposes. Yachts are powered by a motor or a sail. They are typically at least 33 feet (10 meters) long and have good aesthetic qualities.

Read on to learn more about what a yacht is, including some surprising facts about them.

What Is a Yacht?

A boat or any water vessel should be at least 33 feet (10 meters) long and have above-standard aesthetic qualities to become a yacht. That means it should offer excellent accommodations and amenities onboard. There is such a wide variety of yachts, which is why it can be difficult to give a standard definition for this type of watercraft.

What makes a boat a yacht? Generally, a yacht is an expensive boat powered by sail, gasoline, diesel engine, or a combination of these three. Yachts are mainly used for pleasure, racing, or cruising.

What size boat is considered a yacht? A yacht could have the size of a large boat or a small ship. Yachts are typically at least 33 feet (10 meters) and have good aesthetic qualities. The Commercial Yacht Code classifies large yachts a being 79 ft (24 meters) and over.

The term yacht comes from  jaght , a Dutch word meaning  light and fast sailing vessel  that the early Dutch Navy used to hunt and capture pirates.

Large yachts are at least 79 ft. (24 m) according to the Commercial Yacht Code. These large yachts often have a hired crew and are built with more expensive and stronger materials. There are commercial yachts that can carry 12 passengers. The features of a yacht are for the pleasure of the owner and their guests. Such yachts can also carry the flag of a country for official use.

Then there are the superyachts or megayachts. These vessels are usually longer than 131 ft. (40 m). Currently, there are over 15,000 yachts all over the world run by professional crews. On the smaller end are the racing yachts, which are typically not more than 33 ft. long. Their design is mainly for performance rather than comfort .

Brief History of Yachts

The word  yacht  came from  jaght , a Dutch word. Its original meaning refers to the fast and light boats that the Dutch Navy used to hunt and catch pirates during the early 1600s. King Charles the Second used one to return to England from his exile in the Netherlands in 1660. Word quickly spread out that this type of water vessel (and not just any old boat) carries very important people. 

Today, yachts are not only powered by sails but also by gasoline and diesel engines. There are still yachts that use sails to travel around the world. But most modern yachts these days are motorized and use heavy-duty gas or diesel engines to navigate the world.

What Are the Different Types of Yachts?

Yachts are classified into many different types or categories since there’s really no definitive meaning of the word. Let us discuss each classification below.

1) Royal Yachting Association Classifications

There are four categories of yachts, according to the RYA. They are designated according to the seas and wind force that they are expected to encounter.

1. Class A Yachts

The design of these yachts can withstand wind force 8 of 40 knots (21m/s) and 13-foot (4 m) maximum wave heights encountered in extended voyages and ocean passages.

2. Class B Yachts

These are the yachts that can take less than wind force 8 of 40 knots (21m/s) and 13-foot (4 m) maximum height of waves encountered in extended voyages and ocean passages.

3. Class C Yachts

These yachts can withstand wind force 6 of 27 knots (14 m/s) and 6.6-foot (2 m) maximum wave heights encountered in rivers, lakes, exposed coastal waters, and bays.

4. Class D Yachts

Yachts of this class can take wind force 4, which is 16 knots (8.2 m/s) and 1.6-foot (0.5 m) of maximum wave heights encountered in rivers, lakes, inlets, bays, and sheltered coastal waters.

2) Large Commercial Yacht Code Classifications

Great Britain has another classification called the Large Commercial Yacht Code or LY2. This code defines large yachts measuring 79 ft. (24 m) or more at the waterline. They are also used commercially for pleasure or sport and are operated by a professional crew. However, these yachts do not carry more than 12 passengers.

This code regulates the equipping of these yachts, both in port and at sea. The classification focuses on things, such as the availability of a helicopter on deck and the crew’s duty times. This code sets different standard levels for yachts below or above 500 gross tons. The bigger yachts are usually regarded as superyachts measuring 130 ft. (40 m) long. Other countries have their own versions of LY2.

3) Motor Yachts Classifications

This system is another method of classifying yachts. In this system, standard yachts are those in the range of 26 to 130 ft. (7.9 to 39.6 m) long. Once they exceed 130 ft. long, they are already considered superyachts.

There are four classes of motorboats, according to the United States Coast Guard. To the USCG, all watercrafts less than 65 ft. (20 m) and propelled by machinery are classified as:

• Class A –  Motorboats that are less than 16 ft. (4.9 m)
• Class 1 –   Motorboats from 16 to 26 ft. (4.9 to 7.9 m)
• Class 2 –  Motorboats from 26 to 40 feet (7.9 to 12.2 m)
• Class 3 –   Motorboats from 40 to 65 ft. (12 to 20 m)

4) Cruising Yachts

Yachts can also be classified as cruising yachts if they are mainly used for passage-making and near-shore trips. They are specifically designed for passengers’ comfort and have the amenities required during overnight voyages.

For a boat to become a cruising yacht, it must include features, such as ease of handling, living comfort, comfort underway, stability , performance, durability, affordability of ownership, and ease of maintenance.

Cruising yachts can be further classified into the following:

• Offshore Yachts – These yachts are usually more than 45 ft. (14 m) long.
• Near-shore Yachts – These are yachts that range from 33 to 45 ft. (10 to 14 m) long.
• Small Yachts – These shorter yachts usually measure less than 33 ft. (10 m) long. Yachts that are shorter than 25 ft. (7.6 m) fall into this category. Another term for these small yachts is trailer sailers because you can easily tow them by car. Their average weight is about 5,000 pounds or 2.300 kilos.

5) Racing Yachts

What is considered a yacht for racing ? Racing yachts put more emphasis on performance instead of comfort. They have high-performance rigs that provide aerodynamic efficiency. The hulls of these yachts are very hydro-dynamically efficient in minimizing sideways motion and drag through the water.

According to the World Sailing Newsletter, there are 11 classes of racing yachts. They are as follows:

• Farr 30 – 30.9 ft. (9.4 m) long
• X-35 – 34.0 ft. (10.36 m)
• J/111 – 36.4 ft. (11.1 m)
• Class40 – 39 ft. (11.9 m)
• Soto 40 – 40 ft. (12.3 m)
• X-41 – 40.5 ft. (12.3 m)
• Swan 45 – 45.4 ft. (13.83 m)
• Transpac 52 – 52.0 ft. (15.85 m)
• IMOCA 60 – 60 ft. (18 m)
• Swan 60 – 61.8 ft. (18.85 m)
• Maxi Yacht – 70 ft. (21 m)

The classification of yachts also includes yacht style. The following are the styles of yachts you can see berthed in a typical marina:

• Cruiser – This yacht has a displacement hull in its design for long-distance and economical boating trips.
• Expedition – Like the cruiser, this   yacht also has a displacement hull for long-distance and economical trips to remote places. Another term for this type of yacht is the explorer yacht .
• Trawler – This yacht has a traditional and conservative design built with a regular displacement hull for inexpensive and medium-distance boating trips.
• Sports Fisherman – This yacht has a semi-displacement hull called a planing hull. It is suitable for quick trips and typically carries fishing gear for catching big fish.
• Lobster – This yacht is similar to Maine’s lobster boat built with a semi-displacement or planing hull for quick trips.
• Sports Cruiser – This yacht is suitable for quick trips due to its semi-displacement hull. 

What Are Yachts Made Of?

Gone were the days when boats were wholly made of wood. Aside from wood, you can now see watercraft built with fiberglass, aluminum, iron, stainless steel, or a combination of these materials.

During the 1990s, fiberglass became a popular material for building boats. Today, most yachts measuring 79 ft. (24 m) long and below are built using fiberglass. Aluminum, steel, or composite plastic reinforced by fiber are the materials often used in bigger yachts. The yachts that you see resting in marinas today are more likely made of the following materials:

1) Fiberglass

One of the things that made fiberglass a popular material for building boats is that it is best for mass production. By utilizing a mold, boat builders can make a boat faster than using wood or steel. This material also offers strength and durability. Repairing a fiberglass boat is not very difficult as well. The hulls of these types of boats have layers or plies of fiberglass skins and matting soaked in high-strength resin.

Bigger yachts have metal hulls made of steel, aluminum, or a combination of both and other materials. Aluminum is lighter, which equates to less fuel consumption to move it forward. Steel is also easy to repair since boatyards have extensive knowledge of using it a long time ago.

Traditional types of boats are most likely made of wood. The usual method used in boat building is planks over ribs. In the WEST system, plies of wood strips are soaked in epoxy and applied or attached to the boat’s wooden frame. Wood is supremely buoyant in water. That is why it is still being used in boat building today.

What Makes a Boat a Yacht?

In general, there are two types of yachts sailing the rivers and seas of the world now. They are sailing yachts and motor-powered yachts. What makes a boat a yacht? You have a yacht when it reaches a size wherein you need a crew to operate it safely. Those who operate and sail yachts are called yachtsmen.

You also have a yacht if your boat is of the minimum size and equipped with luxurious comfort and hotel-like amenities. If your boat doesn’t have these minimum qualities, it is still just a boat.

Is a Yacht Different from a Boat?

What is the difference between a boat and a yacht? The main difference between the two is that a yacht will always look and feel fancier than a boat or regular ship. If it appears and smells luxurious, given its minimum size, it is a yacht. Boats can be built for many things. But yachts are built mainly for fun and leisure.

How Much Does an Average Yacht Cost?

The factors that determine the price of a yacht are its size, age, and brand. According to current sales data, the average cost of a yacht is $8.4 million, all factors considered.

What Is the Most Expensive Yacht Operating Today?

The Russian billionaire, Roman Abramovich, owns the most expensive yacht in the world today. He owns the Eclipse, a 528 feet superyacht launched in 2009. Its development cost is more than $1 billion.

Seventy crew members operate this small ship. They have to be that many because of the state-of-the-art communication equipment, electronics, and all the trappings of a super luxurious sea craft. This boat even has its own defense system.

Conclusion – What Is a Yacht?

So, to recap, what is a yacht? A yacht is a water vessel used for recreation, racing, or cruising, powered by sail or motor. A yacht can be a medium-sized water vessel or a small ship used for private and official purposes.

However, there is really no standard definition because you can use this term for any watercraft with cabins, accommodations, and amenities for overnight use.

Related reading:

Types of Boats – Full List of 20 Different Types

How Much Does a Yacht Cost to Own?

How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Yacht? Day, Week, and Party Rate

How Much Does It Cost to Charter a Yacht?

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Yacht Vs Boat: What is the Difference?

Definitions of words such as “yacht”, “boat”, or even “ship” are not always clear. Most of us make our own (unspoken) rules up, while others simply go with the flow and call their vessel whatever comes up at the moment.

So when does a boat become a yacht? Are all boats yachts? Are all yachts boats? What about ships?

Here is our subjective take on this vital matter.

The definition of a boat

In spoken or written English, it seems that anything able to float can be called a boat . It has little to do with size, function, or fit-and-finish. It is the most general term.

According to many dictionaries, boats are defined as “small vessels for traveling over water, propelled by oars, sails, or an engine”. So, a boat can have recreational purposes as well as commercial ones, but it is expected to be quite limited in size. 

A yacht : our unofficial definition

The word “yacht” generally refers to a more sophisticated craft than a boat or a ship. 

Yachts can be sailed or motorized: so catamaran, monohulls, or even trimarans can also be called “yachts”. 

To deserve their name, they have to be comfortable, spacious, well equipped and built with luxury in mind.

Regarding their functions, yachts are purely recreational. 

They are designed for relaxation and leisure first, even though they can be suitable for long stays at sea and transatlantic crossings.  

To sum up, as soon as your boat is a certain size and boasts several luxury features designed for leisure, then you can call it a yacht.

The definition of a ship

According to the Oxford dictionary, a ship is “a large boat for transporting people or goods by sea”.

The ship is associated with something larger and less fancy than a boat. 

It is a “working” vessel, unlike yachts which are made for leisure purposes.

A ship usually needs a full crew to operate. A yacht might need a full crew to operate depending on its size. A boat usually implies smaller vessels and therefore most of them don’t need a crew.  

Common vessels that are called “ships” include ferries, petrol tankers, or warships.

Details to look at to know if you are dealing with a boat, a yacht, or a ship

The size: one of the strong factors to identify a boat vs a yacht.

Size is one of the most determining factors to know how to call your vessel.

A boat is often expected to be smaller than a ship or a yacht. Generally, a vessel anywhere from 15-30 feet in length will be called a boat.

Starting from 15 meters (50 feet), private luxury recreational crafts can be considered yachts. 

Starting from 24 meters (79 feet), you are entering the superyachts area. 

Above, 50 meters can start talking about mega yachts. Obviously, there is no upper limit to mega yachts. Currently, Azzam, the world’s biggest yacht is 180 meters long (590 feet).

So when it comes to differentiating between boat and yacht, size does matter.

But size alone isn’t enough to know the sort of vessel you are dealing with.

The function of a yacht vs a boat isn’t the same

The main function of its vessel is one of the easiest ways to recognize a boat from a ship or a yacht.

Boats can be used for both leisure and business (fishing, day trips, police, …) depending on their size and options.

On the other hand, a yacht has a purely recreational function. Unlike a “boat”, it can be used for long voyages on oceans thanks to its larger size, better propulsion, advanced electronics, guidance, and safety equipment, but especially thanks to its comfort. Yachts can protect passengers from bad weather and the comfortable cabins can accommodate several passengers for long stays. Yachts are also often available for charter with a staff taking care of the guests at a high standard of comfort.

Ships primarily have commercial functions. It can be forwarding freight, crossing the sea with thousands of people on board, or going on a warzone with a unit and its material.

To add to the confusion, some mega yachts such as Christina O could be called ships due to their initial function or their size.

Besides these exceptions, it’s quite obvious to recognize a yacht from a boat or a ship simply by its size and the luxury of its amenities.

The luxury on board makes it a yacht or a boat

A yacht is a recreational vessel designed with luxury and comfort in mind. 

The facilities, be it furniture, rooms, living spaces, safety equipment, and navigation systems are all luxurious on a yacht. 

The notion of space is often very important to feel comfortable on board, even for long cruises. The largest and most luxurious yachts have various spaces such as beaches, sundecks … to make life on board as comfortable as on land, if not more.

To make it simple, if a vessel is luxurious, then more often than not, it’s a yacht.

Check out all our luxury yachts here.

The propulsion of the vessel can determine whether it’s a yacht or a boat

A boat can be rowed, propelled with its sails, or with one or several engines. 

Motorized small boats can have impressive speed on the water thanks to their lightweight, but their engines are usually less powerful and sophisticated than yacht engines. 

Some boats can sail long-distance when they are well equipped, such as solar panel, water maker etc.

On the other hand, equipment on yachts make them able to operate over very long distances, including crossing oceans.

Most ships are designed to cross the sea with safety and they are designed for this objective.

Looking at the propulsion is therefore not enough to know if a vessel is a boat, a yacht, or a ship, although it can give you a few clues.

The crew on board can tell the difference between a boat and a yacht

Commercial ships and professional boats obviously have experienced captains to sail them around the rough corners of the globe. 

For yachts and leisure boats, it is less obvious.

Big yachts owners usually employ professionals to sail, but also manage the daily operations onboard. The number of enrolled crew members depends on the yacht’ size.

Usually, boats do not need a professional enrolled skipper to operate, if you know how to sail. But you can always rent a boat and hire a skipper to bring you wherever you want.

So, what should you call your vessel? 

To make it simple, if your vessel is a  luxury craft above 50 feet, designed for fun, recreation, relaxation, and comfort, then call it a yacht.

Anything below that size, call it a boat.

If you own a working craft rather than something recreational, especially if it’s a long vessel, then you are free to call it a ship.

But let’s be honest, nobody will blame you if you use the wrong term. You are entirely free to continue calling your canoe a yacht if you like it that way!

Read Also : How Much does it Cost to Charter a Luxury Yacht?

Starting from 50 feet (15 meters), a pleasure boat is usually considered a yacht.

Yes, a 40-feet boat can be considered a yacht if it has recreational use and a luxurious outfit. Otherwise, it is only a boat!

By definition, a ship is a large vessel that crosses oceans and other deep waters for commercial purposes. It carries cargo or passengers or performs specialized missions, such as defense, research, and fishing. So a boat becomes a ship when it is big, it weighs at least 500 tonnes or above and it has commercial use.

Private recreational boats from 33 feet are actually yachts. Luxury is also an important point once defining a yacht.

No. If the boat doesn’t have a recreational purpose, if it is below 33 feet long (10 meters), or if it is not luxurious, it is not a yacht but a boat!

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What’s the Difference Between a Boat, Yacht & Ship?

Whether you are a brand new sailor or just wanting to brush up on some terms, it is essential to know what to call a particular watercraft if you’re going to fit in while you’re at the docks or out on the water. There are many nuances and subtle differences between water vessel types, but below are some of the main differences.

In general, yachts are either sailing or motor vessels used for pleasure. Yachts are often luxurious and equipped with an overnight cabin. Boats can be either propelled sail or a motor and come in varying sizes. On the other hand, ships are usually motor-powered and much larger than boats.

Some of the differences between watercraft types can be a little fuzzy, but once you grasp the main differences between them, it becomes relatively easy to tell them apart. If you have no previous knowledge of watercraft, you are likely very confused about what defines a yacht, boat, and ship, so I’ll try to clarify any confusion you might have in the next few sections.

Similarities and Differences Between Boats, Yachts, and Ships

The many bodies of water all over the world are home to an extensive collection of different watercraft. There are so many shapes and sizes that they come in that it is nearly impossible to fit every single one into a specific classification.

However, in the following table, I did my best to loosely define ships, yachts, and boats so that it is easy to see the differences between the types of watercraft.

As I mentioned earlier, it is impossible to fit EVERY SINGLE water vessel into a particular category, so there are tons of exceptions out there. In addition to the exceptions, different organizations, laws, and people classify types of boats slightly differently.

There is no universally accepted definition for ships, boats, and yachts, but instead many different sets of rules and regulations. In this article, I have tried my best to use the most commonly accepted definitions for each watercraft type.

Now that we’ve gone over some of the main differences and similarities between boats, ships, and yachts, let’s take a look at each type of vessel individually and look at their most prominent characteristics and attributes.

What Exactly is a Boat?

Boats come in a vast array of sizes and shapes. To many people, the term “boat” simply refers to nearly any watercraft, but there are actually a few restrictions and defining characteristics that all boats have. So let’s just get right into it and take a quick look at what exactly qualifies a vessel as a boat.

Overall Size of Boats

As I said before, there is a massive catalog of different types of boats, and they come in a variety of sizes. There are huge boats that hold lots of cargo or people, and then there are smaller ones that barely can stay afloat with a single person on board.

Typically, boats are defined as watercraft that are less than 197 feet long. However, most boats you are likely to encounter on the water are usually around 30 feet long.

General Price Range of Boats

Again, it is hard to accurately give a price range for all boats because they come in so many different sizes, styles, and types, but most modern boats seem to fall in the $1,500 to $100,000 range. 

Small Jon boats can cost even less than $1,500, while large sailboats and houseboats can cost well above $100,000.

Most Common Uses of Boats

Boats are used all over the world for a variety of different reasons and to do many tasks. Many types of boats serve a wide range of uses, but most are primarily used as a residence, for pleasure, or commercially.

Some of the most popular types of boats, such as sailboats, bowriders, and dinghies, are commonly used for enjoyment, fishing, racing, or other pleasurable activities. There are also many types of houseboats used as residences and commercial boats used for chartering or moving goods or people. 

Propulsion Method of Boats

Due to the wide variety of boats, you are likely to find boats propelled by almost every propulsion method imaginable. Some of the more popular propulsion methods for boats to use are man-power, wind power, and motor power.

Boats on the smaller end often use the power of the people on board to row or paddle, while larger boats rely on sails or powerful motors attached to the stern. Many boats use more than one propulsion method, either together or with one of them as a backup.

What Exactly is a Yacht?

Yachts have many of the same attributes as boats, but their quality, size, and luxury really set them apart. When someone says “yacht,” many people imagine watercraft that are SUPER LARGE, and while there are lots of massive yachts, many smaller boats also qualify as yachts, which might surprise you.

Overall Size of Yachts

There are many different sized yachts, and the rules regarding how big they have to be are not very strict. In general, luxury watercraft greater than 33 feet in length are considered yachts. However, boats smaller than 33 feet are sometimes called yachts if they are exceptionally luxurious and elegant.

There is no upper limit to how large a yacht can be. Yachts longer than 100 feet are often referred to as mega yachts, and ones over 150 feet long called are super yachts.

General Price Range of Yachts

Because the very definition of a yacht requires it to be very luxurious, they often come with quite a price tag as a result. There is quite a range of different price points for yachts, ranging from $250,000 to $50,000,000 and beyond.

Most Common Uses of Yachts

Yachts, because they are so expensive to maintain and purchase, are primarily used for pleasure purposes. Day trips out on the water are typical for yachts, although they often have overnight cabins, so longer excursions are popular.

Chartered yachts are also very popular, which bridges the gap between commercial and pleasure. Although, when you are on a chartered yacht, it is usually for the sole purpose of having a great time and enjoying yourself.

Propulsion Method of Yachts

Because yachts are considered very luxurious and often so large, they are usually solely propelling using motor power. Even if a yacht is on the smaller end of the spectrum, they often only use a motor as a means of driving the craft through the water. 

However, many large sailing yachts out there use sails and the wind to propel the vessel. So while the large majority of yachts use motors, keep in mind that some large and luxurious sailboats can be considered yachts.

What Exactly is a Ship?

Throughout history, large ships have been a helpful tool for many civilizations and have allowed them to transport goods and explore places beyond their homes. In modern times, ships are quite common and are used for a variety of different reasons.

Overall Size of Ships

One of the primary characteristics of ships that set them apart from boats is their size. Ships, especially in modern times, are often MASSIVE and are restricted to navigating only extensive waterways. 

Vessels greater than or equal to 197 feet long are often considered ships. However, most ships today are huge and often fall in the 1,000-foot range or larger.

General Price Range of Ships

Most individuals will never own a ship due to their extreme maintenance and the cost of purchasing one. While many smaller ships are far less expensive, most modern ships cost anywhere between $50 and $500 million.

Large and luxurious cruise ships can even cost upwards of $1 billion to construct, and that’s not even taking into account staff, maintenance, and other costs.

Most Common Uses of Ships

Ships perform many different duties throughout the world, but usually, they are used to transport passengers or goods over long distances. In addition, they are also often used by military, scientists, fishers, and a plethora of other professions and people. They are also often used for pleasure purposes, in the form of passenger cruise ships. 

Overall, ships encompass a large selection of vessels that perform many different duties. 

Propulsion Method of Ships

Due to their large size, most modern ships are propelled using motors. However, even though ships are equipped with massive motors, they are still pretty slow and often move at around 20 knots per hour, although some move much quicker.

While most, if not all, ships today use motors to propel themselves through the water, this was not always the case. Before motors were around, many civilizations used ships for military, exploration, transportation, shipping, and many other uses. During these times, ships were powered primarily by man and wind power. Even today, you can occasionally find a sail-powered ship, though they are quite rare.

James Gerard

Hi, I'm James! I started sailing at a very early age here in the UK, and have enjoyed so many opportunities to sail all over the world. I created this website to share the many sailing tips I've leaned over the years, so that you can also discover the joy of sailing with safety and confidence.

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What’s the Difference Between a Yacht and a Boat?

Many boating enthusiasts use the words boat and yacht interchangeably when in reality, they are very different terms. A yacht is a larger, recreational boat or ship. The word “Yacht” comes from Dutch origin and was originally defined as a light, and fast sailing vessel used by the Dutch navy to find and capture pirates. A boat, on the other hand, is smaller in size and can be anything from a fisherman’s boat to a sailboat.

When determining the difference between a yacht and a boat , there are a few main deciding factors including:

Size As previously mentioned, size matters when it comes to differentiating between a boat and a yacht. Yachts can range from about 35 feet in length all the way up to 160+ feet in length, however, most will be somewhere in the middle. Anything over 160 feet would be considered a “Superyacht”. Boats are generally anywhere from 15-30 feet in length.

Where they can operate Smaller boats are usually capable of operating in calm waters like lakes, rivers, and shallow harbors. Some larger boats, usually 20 – 30 feet in length, can also navigate more rough ocean waters. A yacht, on the other hand, is able to sail in deeper, ocean waters and deal with more turbulent seas. Due to a larger size, high tech yacht electronics and guidance instruments, protection from the elements, and a number of other features yachts are far more suitable for longer ocean trips.

Crew While a boat can be operated by just one captain, a yacht typically requires a full crew to help with navigation, maintenance, electronics and engineering, repairs and stewards to cater to the passengers. In reality, it’s a lot more like a small, private cruise service than an afternoon on the boat with your friends.

Propulsion Depending on the boat, it may operate solely using a sail and the wind, or one or more inboard or outboard motors. While some larger boats can mount very large engines to create some real speed on the water, these engines do not match the power of most yacht engines. Yacht engines are much larger in size, can produce considerably more power – in some cases up to 800hp, and are capable of running much longer distances.

Navigation and technology While some boats may have advanced marine electronics and navigation systems, it’s more of a requirement when it comes to yachts. When making trans oceanic trips it is not only important that you are able to navigate with precision, but also that you can detect other boats or objects that you may not be able to see and understand the performance of your vessel.

Tess Electric is a leading provider of marine electronics, marine electrical services , and marine engineering services to owners and crews of yachts and superyachts in Fort Lauderdale, FL. If you’re looking to work with an experienced team of marine electrical contractors, contact us today.

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Meaning of yacht in English

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• They spent their annual holiday on a chartered yacht in the Caribbean .
• He spent three days adrift on his yacht.
• His eyes were fixed on the distant yacht.
• If they can afford a yacht, they must be rolling in it.
• She sailed around the world single-handed in her yacht.
• cabin cruiser
• dragon boat

yacht | American Dictionary

Examples of yacht, collocations with yacht.

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Translations of yacht

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a toy made from cloth and filled with a soft material so that it is pleasant to hold, often in the form of an animal

Like a bull in a china shop: talking about people who are clumsy

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The Key Differences Between a Yacht and a Boat | Yacht vs Boat

Olivia benjamin.

• June 20, 2023

It’s a common misconception to assume that there is no difference between a yacht and a boat, but there are notable differences between these two types of watercraft. Yachts are generally larger and more luxurious than boats, typically smaller and designed for recreational activities such as fishing or water sports.

While yachts and boats serve as leisure vessels on the water, yachts often boast additional amenities like air conditioning, multiple bedrooms, and even hot tubs. Conversely, boats tend to have simpler features, such as a small cabin or storage space for fishing equipment.

Gaining a deeper understanding of these differences can assist you in determining whether to choose a yacht or a boat based on your unique needs and preferences. So, let’s dive deeper into the distinctions between these two types of vessels.

What is a Yacht and What is a Boat?

Boats and yachts are two terms that are often used interchangeably, but there are distinct differences between them. Let’s examine the differences between boats and yachts.

What is a Yacht?

You might think of a yacht as a luxurious vessel often used for leisure activities, like sailing the high seas or throwing lavish parties on board. 

Yachts are typically larger than boats and have amenities such as multiple cabins, bathrooms, kitchens, and entertainment areas. They’re designed for comfort and style rather than speed or efficiency.

However, it’s important to note that not all yachts are the same. Some may be motorized, while others require sails to move through the water. 

Moreover, there are several types of yachts, including racing yachts, cruising yachts, and mega yachts, with sizes ranging from 33 to over 160 feet. Each type caters to specific preferences and requirements, ensuring a tailored yachting experience.

What is a Boat?

A boat is a watercraft primarily designed to float, move, and navigate on water. It is a generic term that refers to a wide range of vessels used for various purposes such as recreation, transportation, military, commercial use, or fishing. 

Boats come in different sizes, designs, and types, each serving a specific need. Small boats like kayaks and canoes are used for recreational purposes, while larger boats like tugboats serve commercial purposes. 

Whether used for pleasure or work, boats offer great maneuverability. They can navigate in shallow waters and tight spaces and come equipped with navigation and other systems.

Boat vs Yacht | What is the difference between a Yacht and a Boat?

Do you want to know the differences between yachts and boats? Well, there are several key points to consider.

A boat is a generic term used to refer to any small watercraft. At the same time, a yacht is a specific type of boat often associated with luxury and recreational purposes. Many differences exist between yachts and boats, including the use, size, construction of these vessels, and many more. 

Let’s explore these differences in detail to help you understand the unique qualities of each type of watercraft.

Difference in Size

Yachts are typically larger than boats, often measuring over 40 feet long. While boats come in various sizes, they often range from around 20-30 feet in length.

Boats are usually smaller and built for leisurely activities like fishing or cruising on lakes and rivers. On the other hand, yachts are designed for luxurious living at sea and are often equipped with multiple cabins, bathrooms, entertainment areas, and even swimming pools. 

The size difference between yachts and boats also affects their handling of the water. Due to their large size and complex systems, yachts require experienced crews to operate them. Boats, on the other hand, can be easily handled by anyone with basic boating knowledge.

Difference in Use

While both vessels are designed for water travel but serve very different purposes, boats are typically smaller vessels used for recreational activities such as fishing, water sports, and short trips along the coast. They’re also commonly used for transportation in areas with many waterways.

Yachts, on the other hand, are much larger and more luxurious than most boats. They’re typically owned by wealthy individuals or companies and used for leisurely cruising or entertaining guests. Some yachts can even be chartered for special events such as weddings or corporate retreats.

Difference in Technology

While many boats rely on traditional engines or rowing, yachts often incorporate cutting-edge navigation, communication, and entertainment technology. 

For example, some luxury yachts have state-of-the-art autopilot, radar and GPS systems that easily navigate even the most treacherous waters. Additionally, many yachts are equipped with satellite phones and other communication devices that allow passengers to stay connected no matter where they are.

Conversely, boats have basic technology geared towards recreational purposes, like fish finders or depth sounders. Older boats may still use traditional analog instruments for compass bearing and navigation.

Regardless of size or purpose, one thing is clear – technology plays a major role in differentiating between a yacht and a boat. 

Differences in Power and Propulsion

When it comes to power and propulsion, yachts and boats have some key differences. Yachts are often equipped with larger, inboard engines designed for speed and endurance. In contrast, boats may have outboard motors that are smaller and better suited for recreational purposes.

Another key difference relates to the type of transmission used. Yachts often rely on multi-speed transmissions that allow the engine to operate at various speeds. Boats, on the other hand, may have simpler transmission systems that are designed for a lower level of performance.

The type of propulsion used is also important to consider. Yachts may be propelled by jets, controllable pitch propellers or other high-tech means, enabling them to perform well in various conditions. Boats typically rely on simpler propellers unsuited to more demanding environments.

Difference in Price

When it comes to price, yachts and boats are on opposite ends of the spectrum. Boats, being smaller and typically used for recreational purposes, can range from a few thousand dollars to a few hundred thousand dollars. 

Yachts, on the other hand, are significantly more expensive. These vessels are often larger and more luxurious, costing several million to hundreds of millions of dollars.

The cost of owning a yacht goes beyond just the initial purchase price. Yachts require significant upkeep, including maintenance, insurance, and docking fees. However, yacht owners are often willing to pay high costs for the prestige and luxury of owning such vessels.

The Difference in Luxury and Comfort

Luxurious yachts have everything from plush interiors with high-end finishes to state-of-the-art entertainment systems. Many yachts also come equipped with luxurious bedrooms, bathrooms, and gourmet kitchens.

In addition to these features, yachts offer expansive decks and outdoor spaces for entertaining guests or simply enjoying the sun and sea breeze. 

When it comes to luxury and comfort, there really is no comparison between a yacht and a boat. While boats may be functional for certain activities, such as fishing or water sports, they offer a different level of extravagance than you’ll find onboard a yacht.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost difference between purchasing a yacht and a boat.

Before you set sail, remember, a yacht is not just a bigger boat. The difference between purchasing a yacht and a boat can be significant, with yachts typically costing millions while boats range from thousands to hundreds of thousands.

Are there any legal requirements for operating a yacht versus a boat?

To operate a yacht, you may need a captain’s license and have to follow specific regulations depending on the size of your vessel. For boats, requirements vary by state and type of boat but are generally less strict.

How does the size of a yacht compare to the size of a boat?

Yachts are generally larger than typical boats, ranging from 33 feet to over 160 feet in length. However, the size distinction between a yacht and a boat needs to be clearly defined and can vary depending on personal perception.

Are there any specific maintenance requirements for a yacht that differ from those of a boat?

Yachts require meticulous maintenance to ensure they remain seaworthy. This includes regular inspections, cleaning, and repairs. These tasks are more complex and costly than those typically required for boats but crucial for the safety of all onboard.

What is the largest yacht in the world?

As of 2023, the largest yacht in the world is the SOMNIO , measuring 222 meters (728 feet) in length. The yacht is under construction and due for launch in mid-2024.

A yacht can be likened to a floating mansion, replete with lavish amenities and luxurious features, often owned by affluent individuals who relish time at sea. These vessels boast multiple decks, spacious cabins, and even swimming pools.

In contrast, boats come in various shapes and sizes, ranging from small dinghies to large commercial tugboats. While some boats offer basic amenities like a small cabin or restroom, they cannot compete with the luxury of a yacht.

The primary distinction between a yacht and a boat lies in luxury and comfort. Yachts epitomize extravagance, providing amenities akin to a high-end hotel suite, while boats prioritize practicality and functionality.

Ultimately, choosing between a yacht and a boat depends on personal preferences and intended use.

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Yacht definitions: What is a yacht? And does it need to have sails?

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By far the most common question we get asked here at Motor Boat & Yachting is ‘how can you call that a yacht if it doesn’t have sails?’ Here we explain why a boat doesn’t need sails to be called a yacht...

What’s in a name? Quite a lot if you’re a yacht! Not only are the names of yachts a source of endless amusement, but by defining your boat as a yacht in the first place, you’re setting up certain expectations.

Yacht definitions: A brief history

Whilst boating for fun dates back to Ancient Egypt and possibly even further than that, the word yacht comes from the Dutch ‘jachtschip’, which means hunting ship. Jachts were originally a class of sailboat used in the 16th century to hunt down enemies of the Dutch Republic.

However by the 19th century the term ‘yachting’ had developed to mean recreational boating in general, and with the advent of steam boats, sails were no longer the only method of propulsion available to Victorian yachtsmen.

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In the early 20th century (1904 to be precise), our humble magazine was launched under its original title The Motor Boat , but by the 1950s the ‘& Yachting’ suffix had been added to refer to the general pastime enjoyed by motorboat owners. We even reviewed the occasional motorsailer for those who liked to enjoy the benefits of both power and sail.

Today’s Motor Boat & Yachting is dedicated purely to powered leisure vessels from 25-125ft with the occasional foray above and below that when interest dictates. Current editor Hugo Andreae insists that he is ‘terminology agnostic’ saying, “I’m not bothered whether people refer to their boats as yachts, cruisers, power boats or gin palaces just so long as they enjoy using them. But for the record my 22ft Karnic is definitely a gigayacht!”

Editor Hugo’s Karnic 2250 is his family’s pride and joy, but should it be called a yacht?

What makes a yacht, a yacht?

Some would argue that a yacht has to have sails, and as we’ve seen, that was originally the case, but we here at Motor Boat & Yachting beg to differ, as its common to refer to large motorboats as motoryachts, superyachts or even megayachts without any expectation that they would have sails.

Others assert that a yacht should have to have a cabin in order for it to be fully considered a yacht, or that it has to measure at least 10m in length. If that’s the case then some longer narrowboats could be technically considered as yachts, although you’d be hard pushed to find anyone who agrees with that definition.

The final test for something to be considered a yacht is harder to pin down, but it is generally accepted that all yachts have to have a certain aesthetic or architectural appeal in order to earn this haughty moniker.

The advent of internal combustion in the 19th Century allowed motor yachts, like this fine example from Camper & Nicholsons, to be launched. Photo: Getty Images

Whether a boat is worthy of being called a yacht is clearly subjective, but there’s one thing we won’t budge over – it certainly doesn’t have to have sails!

If it’s sailing yachts specifically that you’re interested in, you won’t find many of them here, but we can heartily recommend our sister titles Yachting Monthly and Yachting World , who know much more about them than we do.

Bigger yacht definitions: Superyacht, megayacht or gigayacht?

Beyond the simple term yacht, there are a few other yacht definitions worth clarifying. The most commonly used of which is superyacht .

The debate still rages over what constitutes a superyacht. Any pleasure yacht with a load line length of 24m or more (not length overall or waterline length as is often misquoted) and a gross tonnage of 80GT is classified as a Large Yacht under MCA coding rules, causing a number of additional regulations to kick in, most crucially the requirement for the skipper to hold a commercially endorsed Yachtmaster Offshore Certificate. This is the closest thing to a technical definition of a superyacht.

At 180m Azzam is currently the largest yacht in the world, but an 183m gigayacht called REV is currently under construction in Norway. Photo: Wikimedia Commons

However, while this used to mean most leisure boats with an overall length (LOA) of 80ft or more fell into the Large Yacht category, yards have become so adept at designing bigger boats with a load line length of just under 24m that many craft with an LOA of 90ft or more still count as regular pleasure vessels.

For that reason some people prefer to use the simpler definition of a superyacht being any privately owned vessel with an LOA of 100ft or more. Even then some would argue that a true superyacht should be a custom built yacht of at least 35m or 120ft.

Such is the inflationary pressure on yacht sizes and terminology that the term superyacht itself has begun to lose currency among the yachting elite. Owners of craft over 50m now use the term megayacht to categorise their larger vessels, while the lesser-spotted gigayacht is reserved for yachts over 100m.

Fewer than 100 gigayachts have been built to date, making this the rarest of rare breeds. That said with the world’s largest yacht now measuring over 183m, it’s surely only a matter of time before the 200m mark will be broken and yet another term will be needed. Got any suggestions? Drop us an e-mail: [email protected]

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Better Sailing

Sailboat Vs Yacht: What is The Difference?

Many boaters use the terms “sailboat” and “yacht” interchangeably when they are actually quite distinct. A yacht is a larger boat or ship that is used for recreational purposes. The term “yacht” is of Dutch origin, and it was initially described as a small, swift sailing vessel used by the Dutch navy to track down and catch pirates. A boat, on the other hand, is a smaller vessel that can range from a fishing boat to a sailboat in size. So, if you’re interested in this topic, this article will compare yachting with sailing in many ways. Like this, you will have a much better understanding of which option is best for you. Keep reading!

Sailboats and Yachts: Meaning

Firstly, it’s important to understand the meaning of each word. Generally, a boat is a form of watercraft that comes in a variety of shapes and sizes. A boat is a watercraft that is small enough to fit on a ship, which is typically less than 1,000 feet long. A ship is a huge vessel with a large carrying capacity that can transport other vessels. The size, shape, and capacity of a boat vary depending on its intended usage. Boats are most commonly employed for navigating places along the water’s edge or inland waterways like lakes and rivers, although they can be utilized on any water source. Boats can be used for a variety of purposes, including providing service to people and vessels on the water, recreational activities, commercial passenger, and cargo transportation across waterways.

So, a sailboat (sailing vessel) is a boat that is propelled primarily by the force of the wind on sails. Keep in mind that the term “boat” can cause some misconceptions about the vessel’s size. People may refer to it as a sailing ship rather than a sailing boat once it reaches a particular size. Also, boats are generally thought to be smaller than ships. A sailboat is a water-borne watercraft whose principal means of propulsion is the wind, which is captured and controlled by triangular-shaped pieces of cloth known as ‘sails.’ On the other hand, a powerboat is a watercraft with an internal combustion engine as its primary source of propulsion.

A yacht is most likely a vessel that is primarily used for personal rather than business purposes. There are yachts that you can hire for a week or more. This might add a little confusion as they are commercially owned but within the hire period, they are used by individuals for leisure purposes. Generally, people usually refer to sailboats as yachts or vice-versa. This is a common phenomenon nowadays, however, there are significantly more sailing yachts than motor yachts at the seaside/marina. If you want to specify a boat that is not largely powered by the wind, use the word motor yacht.

Sailing yachts and motor-powered yachts are the two forms of yachts available today. Yachts range in length from 26 feet to hundreds of feet. A cabin cruiser, or just a cruiser, is a luxury vessel that is less than 39 feet long. A superyacht is typically above 70 feet long. So, what is the definition of a mega yacht? They usually exceed 150 feet in length, but there is no top limit! Note that the world’s largest boat is 728 feet long, or 222 meters.

Let’s now check the main differences between a sailboat and a yacht:

Sails and Motor

The boat may be powered purely by the wind or by one or more inboard or outboard motors, depending on the model. While some larger boats may have very massive engines to provide genuine speed on the water, most yacht engines are far less powerful. Yacht engines are substantially larger, can produce far more power – up to 800hp in some circumstances – and can go many further distances.

If you’re searching for a vessel that’s easier to operate, you could argue that a yacht is a superior option. Sure, the computer components are more complicated, and there is more to manage, but sailing will be simpler. In stormy weather, managing a sail can be tricky. From inside the cabin, you can’t manage your sails. You may, however, operate your yacht from the cabin.

It’s a fact that sailboats will always have sails. After all, it’s their primary source of propulsion. The nail is what propels the boat forward by harnessing the wind. So long as the weather permits, sailing can be done anywhere, at any time. Yachting, on the other hand, has its own set of restrictions. A yacht will usually lack a sail, which can be viewed as a good or negative aspect, depending on your perspective.

The advantage of having a sail over only an engine is that you don’t have to worry about running out of fuel. Fuel is not only costly but also inconvenient and pollutes the environment. When on long voyages, you must always keep an eye on your fuel levels, or you risk breaking down at sea. The great thing with sailboats is that as long as there is wind, a sailboat can sail. If you have an extra sail onboard, you should be alright regardless of what occurs. You have a significantly lower chance of being left stranded at sea.

>>Also Read: Sailboats Vs Powerboats: Why Sailboats are Better

Size Matters

The size difference between a yacht and a sailboat is one of the most significant ones. Most of the time, a sailboat will almost certainly be smaller than a yacht. Of course, some sailboats are larger than others, but if we’re talking about average sizes, a yacht will be larger. The reason that size counts so much when deciding which boat to buy is that the available space is limited. So, if you opt for space note that the larger your boat is, the more space you’ll have. This may seem self-evident, but it is one of the most crucial aspects of your boat to which many people forget to give due consideration.

Generally, when it comes to boats, size will always matter. Except in cases where someone prefers overall better performance and speed. But, keep in mind that almost everything you do will be influenced by the size of your boat. The smaller the boat, the less storage space you have, the less space you have for emergency supplies, and even the less space you have for yourself. Regardless of the size of your boat, your sleeping quarters will most certainly be small. Also, depending on your height, every inch of a room may be crucial.

When there are more people on your boat than just you, size matters the most. If you intend to live alone on your yacht, you will have a significant space advantage. If there are three persons on board, you probably going to need more equipment and devices for cooking or for emergencies. All of this suggests that the sleeping space is the most significant distinction between living alone and living with people. If you live alone on a yacht that can sleep four people in theory, you will have a lot more storage and consequently space.

People on Board

The extent to which the crew will influence your decision is mostly determined by your budget and the size of the vessel you are considering buying. Meaning that if you’re intending to buy a sailboat, you won’t need any crew. Except for your family/friends that live on your boat with you, you basically are the entire crew. However, if you own a yacht, it’s an entirely different scenario.

If you intend to live aboard your yacht, you may require the assistance of one or two crew members. There will be plenty to do even if you are the most essential member of the team, i.e. the captain. This is because you might haven’t already mastered things like navigation, maintenance, plumbing, and engineering. So, a yacht often requires a complete crew to assist with navigation, maintenance, electronics and engineering, repairs, and sometimes even stewards to attend to the passengers.

In other words, having a sailboat means that you can take care of everything yourself. There are only a few computer components that will need to be repaired, and you are unlikely to have an engine. Repairing a sailboat isn’t easy in and of itself; it’s just easier for one person to handle. Meaning that it’s far easier to replace a sail than it is to fix an engine. In bad weather, a small sailboat is just easier to monitor than a large yacht. At the absolute least, another set of eyes will be probably required when sailing with a yacht.

Price also Matters

In general, yachts tend to be more expensive than sailboats. Occasionally, a great deal more. For a variety of factors, the most important of which are materials, design, and construction techniques. Note also that a boat’s price is likely to rise as it becomes more modern. Although this isn’t always the case, it is the vast majority of the time. If money is a key factor in deciding which boat to buy, here’s something to think about: just because a yacht is more expensive doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have one. If you have the cash, knowledge, and you know the kind of sailing you will be doing then go for a yacht!

Note also that a sailboat can be outfitted with a variety of amenities and conveniences. But, the sailboat doesn’t always include these features. This will mostly depend on the type of sailboat. As a result, buying a basic sailboat can save you a lot of money. However, most yachts will provide high end amenities. As a result, a motor yacht will cost significantly more than a regular sailboat. Sailboats are also smaller than yachts, which means you have a larger selection of less expensive boats to pick from when making your purchase. But, yachts often start in the six-figure range and can reach millions of dollars depending on the yacht’s size, age, and build quality.

Maintenance and Repairs

Yachts are frequently more expensive to maintain than sailboats. Meaning that boat engines require a great deal of upkeep, and the expense of fuel can be prohibitive for many individuals. For example, did you know that a gallon of diesel fuel in a yacht may only allow you to travel less than 1 nautical mile? If you’re going on a long voyage out to the sea, you can end up spending a lot of money on fuel. A sailboat, on the other hand, can take you wherever you want to go with very little fuel. Bear in mind also that a yacht’s insurance is more expensive than that of a sailboat. One of the main reasons is because it is classified as a yacht.

In addition to the boat’s price there are some other things to consider. The most important one is maintenance and repairs. A boat will always need these and it might need them once per month or once per year. It depends on the kind of repairs and on the way in which you “treat” your boat. Also, if you’re buying a used sailboat, you will need sometimes more research and more money for upgrades. It will be repainted, restored, and upgraded, although it will remain the same size. You should approach buying a boat in the same way that you would with a car. So, according to the size and kind of boat you want to buy, it’s important to keep in mind the price and extra costs as well.

While advanced marine electronics and navigation systems are available on some boats, they are more of a must for yachts. When doing transatlantic voyages, it is critical not only to be able to navigate with precision but also to be able to identify other boats or objects that you may not be able to see, as well as to comprehend your vessel’s performance.

When it comes to technology, it’s not just about whether you’re choosing a sailboat or a yacht. The age of the specific vessel is also something to consider. A sailboat that is more than ten years old may not be as technologically advanced as a brand new sailboat. Better technology can offer a lot of opportunities for you if you decide to buy a yacht. First and foremost, it can make working on your boat much more convenient. There’s no reason you couldn’t work remotely from your boat if you have the ability to set up a functional office with wifi.

Technology also brings up a lot of new possibilities for you when it comes to the act of sailing. A sailboat could traverse the Pacific or Atlantic, but it would be rather difficult. On the other hand, with a yacht, it can be a lot easier. In comparison to a sailboat, your yacht will have advanced navigational systems, warning and guidance systems, and many more safety features.

Sea, Lakes, or Rivers?

Bear in mind that in shallow waters, large yachts are unable to sail. A sailboat is a way to go if you plan on sailing in areas with shallow waters. In the Caribbean, for example, a yacht might be difficult to navigate. At the very least, it’ll be more difficult than sailing. A yacht, on the other hand, may travel to far more places than a sailboat.

A small sailboat might theoretically sail across the Atlantic. However, it can be quite risky, and your boat might not be able to withstand the strong winds and waves. Furthermore, if you’re aboard a sailboat, you can be the only one on board. This means that if the worst happens, far out at sea, there will be no one to aid you. You can do it, of course, but it is risky.

So, smaller boats may normally operate in calmer seas such as lakes, rivers, and shallow harbors. Larger boats, usually between 20 and 30 feet long, can equally navigate rougher ocean seas. A yacht, on the other hand, can sail in deeper ocean waters and handle more choppy seas. Yachts are significantly more ideal for lengthy ocean voyages due to their bigger size, high-tech electronics and guidance equipment, weather protection, and a variety of other characteristics.

>>Also Read: Sailing Vs Boating: Why Sailing Is Better

Sailboat and Yatch Construction

Depending on the anticipated scale of production, sailboat makers can fabricate their own parts or order them. Masts, sails, engines, and metal fittings are common items provided by specialty vendors. Boatbuilders, on the other hand, create their own fiberglass hulls, using Gel coat polyester resin, a catalyst for the resin, woven fiberglass roving, and fiberglass. Wooden hull manufacturers create and shape their own wood in the same way. Note that the main building materials used in boat construction are aluminum, metal, wood, and fiberglass. The unique structure of each material offers a different design and usage as well as additional features to the way in which the boat is built.

Material considerations are important, whether they affect the cost or the durability of the product. Fiberglass, carbon fiber, and metals such as titanium will also be used to construct a boat. On the contrary, a sailboat will most likely be composed of wood or fiberglass. So, in case you value safety and sturdiness above all else, and money isn’t a big issue, a yacht will be significantly safer for you.

The material can also influence the way in which you make repairs. For instance, a wooden boat is much easier to repair than a metal boat. You can make some simple and quick repairs using wood, and they’ll probably last till you get to a marina. To do major repairs on a yacht, you’ll need a lot of specialized equipment and knowledge. Moreover, you may need to ask for a crew member to help you with this.

Sailboat Vs Yacht – Summary

As you can see there are many differences between a sailboat and a yacht. Nowadays many people tend to confuse or don’t be aware of the exact meaning and differences of these vessels, and it’s normal. But, we, as sailors, have to know the differences in order to understand which kind of boat is right for us. For example, if you want big spaces, luxury, or intend to liveaboard then you should opt for a yacht. But, if you want to experience the true joy of sailing, sail anywhere without worrying about polluting the environment or spending too much on fuel, then go for a sailboat! It will entirely depend on your needs and preferences so weigh the pros and cons of each one before making the decision.

In any case, I hope that you have now clarified the differences between these two and that you will make the right choice. I wish you all safe & enjoyable voyages!

Peter is the editor of Better Sailing. He has sailed for countless hours and has maintained his own boats and sailboats for years. After years of trial and error, he decided to start this website to share the knowledge.

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Yacht vs. Ship: What's the Difference?

Key Differences

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What is a Yacht?

A yacht does not have to meet any specific requirements to be considered a yacht. For our purposes a yacht is any recreational boat of around 30 feet or more that includes at least one cabin and is used for cruising or racing. This definition is not a hard and fast rule to go by as there is no settled definition for the word at all or what specifically makes a boat into a yacht.

Because a yacht is not a specific type of easily identified vessel like a pontoon boat or a fishing boat, we’ll cover the features of what makes a yacht worthy of the name so make it easier for you to identify one in the wild.

Defining What a Yacht Is

The difficulty in defining the term “yacht” is that, unlike the specific vessels mentioned above, a yacht is more of a description than a type. Yachts can be sailboats or motorboats, center console boats, house boats or any other kind of vessel that meets the generally accepted size and feature expectations of a yacht.

The definition I gave above includes a few key points:

• A yacht is a recreational boat
• A yacht is 30 feet long or more
• A yacht has at least one cabin
• A yacht is used for cruising or racing

This description allows you to weed out some things such as:

• Boats under 30 feet which most recreational boats are
• Specific purpose boats like commercial fishing vessels, barges, tugboats
• Most pontoon boats, speed boats for racing, jon boats and recreational fishing boats

Reaching a Definition

Usually when people think of yachts they’re thinking of a medium to large vessel that is well appointed and higher end with a lot of luxury features. The word evokes a sense of value and expense. We consider a yacht to be an expensive boat.

Yachts can be very similar to a cabin cruiser or day sailing boats , but the difference seems to be in size and what may be included above and beyond a “normal” boat. For these reasons, “yacht” as a term is sometimes hard to define and definitions will not be consistent from one source to another.

Motor Yacht Vs. Sailing Yacht

The initial definition of yacht that we provided doesn’t specify if a yacht is a boat that requires wind power to move or an engine. But the fact is that a yacht can be a sailing vessel or a powered vessel and either one can still qualify as a yacht.

Motor Yacht

The power source for a motor yacht is an engine. Some yachts are hybrid vessels which can run under sail but also have a backup engine in case of emergencies or if the wind is not reliable. These are sometimes called motorsailers.

Motor yachts are considered leisure vessels more often than sailing yachts due to how they work. A motor yacht takes less skill to operate than a sailing yacht.

Sailing Yacht

Sailing yachts run strictly on wind power. Most larger sail boats with cabins could be considered yachts. Many boaters still consider a sailing yacht a boat for people who are more adventurous and a little wild as they represent that idea of cutting loose at sea.  A sailing yacht is harder to operate than a motor yacht and requires more skill.

A motor yacht is going to get you where you want to go faster than a sailing yacht. That’s not to say these aren’t fast sailing vessels as modern yachts can reach great speeds, but they are still at the mercy of the wind. For that reason you’ll often see far more motor yachts around than sailing yachts as they tend to be more convenient for most boaters.

Motor yachts have no concrete average speed thanks to numerous factors that go into what makes a yacht. The largest yacht in the world is nearly 600 feet long. Obviously a boat of this size has many variables that will affect its speed compared to a 60 foot yacht. That said, yachts of any size tend to have cruising speeds that range from 20 mph to 30 mph.

Because a sailing yacht is powered by wind only it will be slower, on average, than a motor yacht. Sailing yachts often reach speeds of just 5 mph to around 10 mph. The size and construction of the vessel, its weight, and the skill of the captain can all affect these numbers.

A motor yacht has to make space for an engine room, which can get quite huge especially on large yachts. Space is also needed for fuel tanks. On some mega yachts they have fuel tanks that can hold over a million liters of fuel, which is absolutely staggering and requires a large portion of the vessel.

Motor yachts are more likely to devote space to luxury amenities like hot tubs or even swimming pools. The largest motor yachts have multiple luxury cabins, helipads, tenders, gyms and more. Some motor yachts can have up to 8 decks. You can expect a motor yacht at 150 feet to have around 50% or more space available than the exact same length in a sailing yacht. 

Sailing yachts can be designed smaller than motor yachts because they don’t need engine or fuel space. So a smaller sailing yacht can hold as many passengers as a larger motor yacht without sacrificing comfort or luxury. A sailing yacht is going to have a smaller and probably narrower structure than a motor yacht.

Sailing yachts often offer comfortable cabins but usually have few hotel-like luxuries on board.  A sailing yacht needs a lower profile to function properly. They will have fewer decks as well.

Motor yachts lend themselves more towards really having fun at sea. These are true recreational vessels. This is owing to the fact motor yachts are more likely to have tender garages and include jet skis and other equipment for getting out and having fun. 

Motor yachts also tend to be the ones that are more outfitted like small resorts. You can find dance floors, bars, swimming pools, jacuzzi tubs, gyms and more on some big luxury yachts. At some point they really start to look like small cruise ships. With the extra decks and of course because they don’t have masts in the way, there’s a lot more space for this kind of thing. 

Modern sailing yachts have been designed with more luxury features than older models and it’s not unheard of to find a jacuzzi on a sailing yacht or even a cinema on some, but it’s still a rarity when compared to motor yachts.

Sailing yachts can be used for some more limited type fun at sea – lots of snorkeling, swimming, fishing and so on, just not to the extreme that a motor yacht will do. A lot of the appeal of a sailing yacht is the fact that it’s for sailing, so the act of sailing itself is the draw. Usually people who own and operate sailing yachts want to engage in the activity of sailing, rather than the extra things you might enjoy on a motor yacht.

Cost of Motor Yachts vs Sailing Yachts

Motor yachts are more expensive than sailing yachts. The initial cost can vary widely but it’s the long term costs that nail you. Fuel and maintenance costs over time for a motor yacht will always keep raising the price. The largest motor yachts may cost millions of dollars to buy outright and also have yearly operating costs in the hundreds of thousands or even millions if they are fully crewed. The highest priced yacht in the world has a $1.5 billion price tag.

A sailing yacht continues to coast along at a much lower cost in terms of necessary maintenance. After all, you never need to refuel your sailing yacht. Some smaller yachts may cost under $30,000. 

Yacht Classifications

Yachts are often classified by size. As we defined early, any vessel over 30 feet can potentially be a yacht. But if you are talking about a vessel that is over 400 feet in length, it’s not an accurate picture to use the same term. 

We often classify yachts using common size or metric prefixes. You may have heard the terms “superyacht” and “megayacht.” These are ways of attempting to differentiate between the sizes of yachts because some of these vessels can get massive. The world’s largest yacht, the Azzam, is about 600 feet long. 

Large Yacht

According to the Commercial Yacht Code, a large yacht is any yacht that has reached 79 feet or more. At this size the boat needs to have an actual crew to keep it running. Anything under 79 feet would just be a standard yacht.

Super Yacht

To qualify as a super yacht, a vessel has to be at least 131 feet in length. Obviously this size means it needs a fairly extensive crew and, if it’s not a commercial vessel, it’s probably owned by someone extremely wealthy in order to maintain it. 

The term mega yacht is a bit sketchy which is no surprise given how there’s only a loose definition for the word “yacht” in the first place. Mega yacht and superyacht are often used synonymously. However, for some people, the term mega yacht can only be applied when the vessel reaches at least 200 feet. This doesn’t seem to be a definite rule though so if you hear the term it’s still best to look at the specs of the boat to see what’s being referred to. 

You hear this term a lot less frequently but it’s been tossed around to account for those yachts that would even leave a mega yacht in the dust. After all, if a super yacht is 131 feet and a mega yacht is 200 feet then a yacht like Azzam, at 600 feet, should probably be known by a different term since it’s so much bigger.

Giga yacht is sometimes used to represent these largest yachts. But again, this is an informal label for such a large boat and there are no hard and fast rules about what size a boat has to be in order to be called a giga yacht. In general it just means the biggest of the big. 

Racing Yachts

If the point of the yacht is specifically to be involved in racing, then it will likely be stripped down of many of the more luxurious but unnecessary amenities seen in recreational and cruising yachts. Usually a racing yacht has less space for relaxing or sleeping, for instance, but there are definitely yachts being built that offer a lot of nice features while still being designed to race.

The Bottom Line

There are no distinct rules for the size of a yacht or what it can even do. A yacht can operate under motor power or under sailing and you can use it to race, to just have fun, or for cruising. They can range in size from just 30 feet all the way up to the massive 600 foot Azzam. 

A yacht is a vessel that is fairly luxurious and used recreationally for a variety of purposes. A luxury yacht may be chartered for business or events and come with a full crew while smaller motor powered yachts and sailing yachts tend to be used for pleasure cruising.

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Below deck's gary king reveals bombshell claim against accuser as sailing yacht season 5 status remains unclear.

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20 Best Reality TV Shows Right Now

8 reasons below deck sailing yacht season 5 should air gary king's dirty laundry (he should get a bad edit), 90 day fiancé: what jasmine pineda's instagram reveals about life with new boyfriend matt branis.

While there is still no definite news about the next season of Below Deck Sailing Yacht , Gary King made headlines by dropping a bombshell allegation about his accuser. Gary has had a history of questionable conduct and behavior during his time as Bosun of various yachts on the popular Below Deck spin-off. After Gary was accused of sexual misconduct , Bravo removed the cast of Below Deck Sailing Yacht from the lineup at BravoCon and has yet to reveal the future of the television show. These allegations against Gary and his previous inappropriate behavior seem to have tarnished Sailing Yacht 's reputation.

"I know it’s super sad, and it honestly hurt so much and affected my whole family, I’m just glad it’s in the past."

Gary has continued acting as if these troubling allegations are false and that he will be in Below Deck Sailing Yacht season 5. In the comments section of a recent post on Gary 's Instagram, Instagram user @unicornmagic78 asked, " Just out of curiosity, was there an investigation into the allegations? "

Gary responded to the question by saying, " Her and her boyfriend (now ex I hear) weren’t invited back to any BD due to the problems they caused, so she wanted revenge and to try [to] make some money out of it. " Gary continues to claim these allegations against him are false.

Gary King Claims His Life Has Been “Ruined” Amid Misconduct Allegations

Gary might not return to below deck sailing yacht after alleged behavior.

Things are not looking good for Gary's future on television now that he is facing serious accusations of sexual misconduct, which caused Bravo to take a step back not only from Below Deck Sailing Yacht but from Gary as well. Gary continued his response to the original poster, saying, " To me, I knew it never happened, but it affected my family and potentially ruined my career because of her lies :( was honestly the hardest thing I’ve ever gone through. " Gary went on to say that he is now in a much better place but that this experience has been scary.

Reality TV is more popular than ever. With so many to choose from, here are some of the best reality TV shows to stream or watch right now.

Another commenter, @michae1ajane , replied to Gary's response, saying, " I never believed that horrible story, and it made me sick how quickly people jumped on it and were so unbelievably mean to/about you. Does this mean you’ll be back? " Many have also wondered if Gary will return for Below Deck Sailing Yacht season 5, while Bravo remains silent on the issue . Gary sidestepped the question by answering, " I know it’s super sad, and it honestly hurt so much and affected my whole family, I’m just glad it’s in the past, but haters will hate, and there will always be trolls. "

Gary believes his time on Below Deck Sailing Yacht was memorable, fun, and exciting for everyone involved. However, his personality clashed with many of his crewmates during filming. Gary has a rough demeanor that can rub people the wrong way, which has led to many issues with those who were assigned to work under him. Aside from work-related problems, Gary was also involved in many toxic " boatmances " during filming for the seasons he was on, including one love triangle. Gary’s inability to control his behavior may have cost him any future he could have had in the Below Deck franchise.

This is not the first time a show in the Below Deck franchise has faced allegations of sexual misconduct and impropriety. As these accusations begin to build up, Bravo faces more and more pressure to get its stars under control and head away from serious legal problems. Although Gary is adamant that he will be back for Below Deck Sailing Yacht season 5 , it may be in the best interest of Bravo and its shows to cut ties with Gary. Below Deck Sailing Yacht has already missed the period when it would have aired this year, leaving its future unknown.

Sources: @michae1ajane /Instagram, @unicornmagic78 /Instagram, Gary King /Instagram, Watch What Happens Live /YouTube

Below Deck Sailing Yacht

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Below Deck Sailing Yacht is a spin-off of the Below Deck reality television series. Premiering on Bravo, the show follows the life of a Yacht crew as they attempt to navigate a busy Charter season in which many customers make use of a 177-foot sailing yacht. Over the first three seasons, the yacht has been to Greece, Croatia, and Spain.

Inside the shocking Sicily yacht tragedy that left 7 people dead

There was a violent storm, but even then, luxury yachts are built to weather such events. so why did this boat sink off the coast of sicily, leaving seven people dead, by natalie finn | e news • published august 24, 2024 • updated on august 24, 2024 at 10:34 am.

Originally appeared on E! Online

Nobody was trying to reach the lowest depths of the ocean or otherwise test the boundaries of human endurance .

📺 Watch News4 now: Stream NBC4 newscasts for free right here, right now.

But what was supposed to be a routine pleasure cruise aboard a superyacht turned deadly all the same on the morning of Aug. 19 when the 184-foot Bayesian got caught in a storm and sank off the coast of Sicily .

"I can't remember the last time I read about a vessel going down quickly like that," Stephen Richter of SAR Marine Consulting told NBC News . "You know, completely capsizing and going down that quickly, a vessel of that nature, a yacht of that size."

Of the 22 people onboard, including crew, seven people died. The last of the bodies was recovered Aug. 23, an expectedly sad coda to what had already been a tragic week as the search for answers as to how this happened got underway.

And to be sure, every minute of the Bayesian's ill-fated outing is being fiercely scrutinized, starting with the general seaworthiness of the vessel itself.

Because, frankly, this was a freak occurrence.

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"Boats of this size, they’re taking passengers on an excursion or a holiday," Richter explained. "They are not going to put them in situations where it may be dangerous or it may be uncomfortable, so this storm that popped up was obviously an anomaly. These vessels that carry passengers, they’re typically very well-maintained, very well-appointed."

But in this case, a $40 million yacht sank, seven people are dead—including a billionaire tech mogul and his 18-year-old daughter—and morbid fascination doesn't need a second wind.

Here is how the story of the Sicily yacht tragedy has unfolded so far:

What happened to the yacht that sank off the coast of Sicily?

The Bayesian had set off from the Sicilian port of Milazzo on Aug. 14 at capacity with 12 guests and 10 crewmembers aboard.

The aluminum-hulled vessel was built in 2008 by Italian shipbuilder Perini Navi and registered in the U.K. Cruise sites listed it as available for charter at $215,000 per week, per the Associated Press.

On the morning of Aug. 19, the superyacht was anchored off the coast of Porticello, a small fishing village in the Sicilian province of Palermo (also the name of Sicily's capital city), when a violent storm hit.

The vessel "suddenly sank" at around 5 a.m. local time, seemingly due to "the terrible weather conditions," the City Council of Bagheria announced shortly afterward, per NBC News .

At the time, only one person was confirmed dead—the ship's chef—but six others were said to be missing. The 15 survivors—who managed to make it onto an inflatable life boat, according to emergency officials—were rescued that morning by the crew of another yacht that had been nearby when the storm hit.

"Fifteen people inside," Karsten Borner, the Dutch captain of the ship that was able to help (the Sir Robert Baden Powell), told reporters afterward, per Reuters. "Four people were injured, three heavily injured, and we brought them to our ship. Then we communicated with the coast guard, and after some time, the coast guard came and later picked up injured people."

When the storm hit, his boat ran into "a strong hurricane gust," Borner said, "and we had to start the engine to keep the ship in an angled position."

They "managed to keep the ship in position," he continued, but once the storm died down, they realized the other boat that had been behind them—the Bayesian—was gone.

The wreck ended up settling 165 feet below the surface, according to Italy's national fire department.

Fire officials said that divers, a motorboat and a helicopter were deployed to search for the missing.

Meanwhile, footage was captured of the ship capsizing on closed-circuit TV about a half-mile away from where it was anchored.

In the video obtained by NBC News, the illuminated 250-foot aluminum mast of the ship appears to list severely to one side before disappearing completely. Survivors recalled having just a few minutes to literally abandon ship.

Who were the seven people who died when the yacht Bayesian sank?

The tragedy initially became headline news because billionaire tech mogul Mike Lynch—"Britain's Bill Gates," some U.K. media called him—was among the missing. His body was ultimately recovered Aug. 22 .

"They told me that suddenly they found themselves catapulted into the water without even understanding how they had got there," Dr. Fabio Genco, head of the Palermo Emergency Medical Services, told NBC News Aug. 22. "And that the whole thing seems to have lasted from 3 to 5 minutes."

Genco said he got to Porticello about an hour after the Bayesian capsized.

Survivors "told me that it was all dark, that the yacht hoisted itself up and then went down," he said. "All the objects were falling on them. That’s why I immediately made sure, by asking them questions, if they had any internal injuries."

Why did the yacht sink?

Italian prosecutors are investigating to determine what transpired before the boat went down, according to NBC News.

Meanwhile, the CEO of shipbuilder Perini's parent company The Italian Sea Group defended the vessel itself as "unsinkable."

Perini boats "are the safest in the most absolute sense," Giovanni Costantino told Sky News Aug. 22 . What happened to the Bayesian "put me in a state of sadness on one side and of disbelief on the other," he continued. "This incident sounds like an unbelievable story, both technically and as a fact."

Costantino said it had to have been human error that led to the boat sinking, declaring, "Mistakes were made."

"Everything that was done reveals a very long summation of errors," he told newspaper Corriere della Sera Aug. 21, in an interview translated from Italian. "The people should not have been in the cabins, the boat should not have been at anchor."

The weather was "all predictable," he continued, adding that the storm "was fully legible in all the weather charts. It couldn't have been ignored."

The yacht's captain, identified as James Cutfield of New Zealand, was taken to Termini Imerese hospital for treatment. From there, he told La Repubblica, per Sky News , that he didn't see the storm coming.

Borner, the captain of the ship that rescued the 15 Bayesian survivors, told NBC News that he noticed the storm come in at 4 a.m. local time, and saw what looked to him like a waterspout, a type of tornado that forms above water.

The International Centre for Waterspout Research posted on X Aug. 19 that it had "confirmed 18 waterspouts today off the coasts of Italy. Some were powerful waterspouts, one of which may have been responsible for the sinking of a large yacht off of Sicily."

Borner said he didn't know why the Bayesian sank so quickly, guessing "it may have something to do with the mast, which was incredibly long." (A tall mast, even with its sails down, means there's more surface area exposed to wind, which can result in tipping.)

Confirming that one person was dead and six unaccounted for immediately following the wreck on Aug. 19, Salvo Cocina of Sicily's civil protection agency told reporters that a waterspout had struck the area overnight.

"They were in the wrong place at the wrong time," he said.

The 59-year-old founder of software firm Autonomy had been on the trip with his wife Angela Bacares and their 18-year-old, Oxford-bound daughter Hannah to celebrate his recent acquittal in the U.S. on fraud and conspiracy charges stemming from the $11.7 billion purchase of his company by Hewlett-Packard in 2011.

In a bizarre turn of events, Lynch's co-defendant at trial, Stephen Chamberlain, the former vice president of finance at Autonomy, died after being taken off life support following a road accident on Aug. 17. Chamberlain's attorney told Reuters Aug. 20 that his friend and client had been out for a run when he was "fatally struck" by a car.

Meanwhile, multiple people who contributed to Lynch's defense were on the cruise with him and his family.

The bodies of Morgan Stanley International Chairman Jonathan Bloomer—who testified on Lynch's behalf—and his wife Judy Bloomer, as well as lawyer Chris Morvillo, a partner at the U.S. firm Clifford Chance, and his wife Neda Morvillo, a jewelry designer, were recovered on Aug. 21 .

In a LinkedIn post thanking the team that successfully defended Lynch, Morvillo wrote, per Sky News , "And, finally, a huge thank you to my patient and incredible wife, Neda Morvillo, and my two strong, brilliant, and beautiful daughters, Sabrina Morvillo and Sophia Morvillo. None of this would have been possible without your love and support. I am so glad to be home. And they all lived happily ever after…"

The first casualty confirmed Aug. 19 was the ship's Canadian-Antiguan chef, later identified as Recaldo Thomas.

"He was a one-of-a-kind special human being," a friend of Thomas told The Independent . "Incredibly talented, contagious smile and laugh, an incredible voice with a deep love of the ocean and the moon. I spoke to him nearly every day. He loved his life his friends and his job."

Hannah's body was the last of the missing six to be found , with divers bringing her remains ashore on Aug. 23.

Lynch and Bacares, who was rescued, also shared a 21-year-old daughter, according to The Times.

While awaiting trial, Lynch—who maintained his innocence throughout the proceedings—had spent 13 months under house arrest in San Francisco. Back home in London afterward, he admitted to The Times in July that he'd been afraid of dying in prison if he'd been found guilty. (He faced a possible 25-year sentence.)

"It's bizarre, but now you have a second life," he reflected. "The question is, what do you want to do with it?"

(E!, NBC News and Sky News are all members of the Comcast family.)

Sea Hear Now boat cruises ready to rock for Bruce Springsteen on Asbury Park beach

Thirty-five thousand by land and more by sea when Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band hit the beach on Sunday, Sept. 15.

That's because boat captains at the Jersey Shore are ready to hit the Atlantic Ocean waters off Asbury Park when the Boss and the band play the city's Sea Hear Now on Sunday night.

“The only thing that concerns us is the ocean condition, whether it will be good for us to be out there,” said Bill McKim, who's 120-foot Jersey Girl boat out of Belmar is taking reservations for Sea Hear Now cruises for Sept. 14 and Sept. 15.

Weather reports are indeed looking good since we spoke to McKim last week. Capt. Alan Shinn of the Miss Belmar Princess, Royal Miss Belmar and Ocean Explorer announced on Sept. 6 that his boats will also be cruising the seas off the Asbury Park shore during the show.

“Guys are just waiting to see how the weather will be,” said McKim last week. “Expect to see boats from Point Pleasant and boats from Belmar, and I'm sure each guy with a six-passenger boat from Monmouth Beach will be there. I expect every guy who has a boat that works will be out there.“

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 McKim sailed on last year's fest.

“We had no problems at all for the Foo Fighters, the sound was fantastic,” McKim said. “You're a distance from the stage but it was enjoyable. We're looking forward it.”

Boaters should be more than 200 yards from the shore, or outside of the breakers, said the New Jersey State Police Marine Services Bureau.

“Our troopers will be out on patrol as usual, ensuring everyone's safety on the water,” said New Jersey State Police Sgt. Charles Marchan via email about the Sea Hear Now weekend. “Whether you’re boating or fishing, we are always on hand to keep the public safe and enforce boating laws. As always, we remind everyone to wear life jackets, follow safety guidelines, and be mindful of others on the water.”

Springsteen and the E Street Band play the North Beach, north of Convention Hall, from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. on Sunday. Noah Kahan headlines the fest on Sept. 14. The Gaslight Anthem, the Trey Anastasio Band, the Black Crowes, Norah Jones, 311, the Revivalists, Kool & The Gang, the Hives and more will play over the two days on the fest’s three stages on the North Beach and in Bradley Park.

More: Asbury Park road, beach, boardwalk closures for Bruce Springsteen and Sea Hear Now

More: Bruce Springsteen show at Sea Hear Now in Asbury Park will have extra speakers, screens

“It's more of an experience of being out on the water,” McKim said. “You're hearing the music and experiencing it and you got bathroom facilities on the boat and it's BYOB, so you can save your money that way. It's an enjoyable time. It won't be overcrowded and everybody will be able to see and hear.”

Sea Hear Now boat cruises

Jersey Girl out of Belmar Marina, starting at $85 for Saturday, $325 Sunday. jerseyshorewhalewatc h ingtour.com .

Miss Belmar Princess, Royal Miss Belmar and Ocean Explorer out of Belmar Marina, $150. 732-681-6866; missbelmar.com .

 Subscribe to app.com for the latest on the New Jersey music scene.

Chris Jordan, a Jersey Shore native, covers entertainment and features for the USA Today Network New Jersey. Contact him at [email protected]

At least 4 migrants have died and others remain missing after a boat capsized off Senegal

Senegalese authorities say a boat carrying migrants capsized off the coast of Senegal over the weekend, leaving at least four people dead and several others missing

DAKAR, Senegal -- A boat carrying migrants capsized off the coast of Senegal over the weekend, leaving at least four people dead and several others missing, local authorities said on Monday.

The artisanal fishing boat left the town of Mbour, nearly 80 kilometers (50 miles) south of the capital, Dakar heading to Europe on Sunday afternoon before capsizing a few miles off the coast, Amadou Diop, the district's prefect told The Associated Press.

Local fishermen rescued three people who were brought back to shore by naval authorities.

Senegal’s navy is looking for those missing, Diop said, adding that the exact number of passengers remained unknown.

In recent years, the number of migrants leaving West Africa through Senegal has surged with many fleeing conflict, poverty and the lack of job opportunities. Most head to the Canary Islands, a Spanish archipelago off the coast of West Africa, which is used as a stepping stone to continental Europe.

Since the beginning of the year, more than 22,300 people have landed on the Canary Islands , 126% more than the same period last year, according to statistics released by Spain’s Interior Ministry.

Last month, the Senegalese army said it had arrested 453 migrants and “members of smuggling networks” as part of a 12-day operation patrolling the coastline. More than half of the arrested were Senegalese nationals, the army said.

In July, a boat carrying 300 migrants, mostly from Gambia and Senegal, capsized off Mauritania . More than a dozen died and at least 150 others went missing.

The Atlantic route from West Africa to the Canary Islands is one of the deadliest in the world . While there is no accurate death toll because of the lack of information on departures from West Africa, the Spanish migrant rights group Walking Borders estimates the victims are in the thousands this year alone.

Migrant boats that get lost or run into problems often vanish in the Atlantic, with some drifting across the ocean for months until they are found in the Caribbean and Latin America carrying only human remains.

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Boat capsizes off North African coast, one dead and 22 missing in latest migrant tragedy

by SAMY MAGDY | The Associated Press

CAIRO (AP) — A boat carrying migrants capsized off the Libyan coast Tuesday, leaving one person dead and 22 missing, Libyan authorities said, the latest sea tragedy involving migrants seeking a better life in Europe.

The coast guard in the eastern Libyan town of Tobruk said the boat was carrying 32 migrants and that nine had been rescued. Survivors are being taken to a port in Tobruk, the coast guard said.

In recent years, the North African nation has emerged as the dominant transit point for migrants fleeing war and poverty in Africa and the Middle East. In December, at least 61 migrants, including women and children , drowned off the town of Zuwara on Libya’s western coast.

Libya was plunged into chaos following a NATO-backed uprising that toppled and killed longtime autocrat Moammar Gadhafi in 2011.

Human traffickers have benefited from the disorder, smuggling migrants across Libya's extensive borders, which it shares with six nations. The migrants are crowded onto ill-equipped vessels, including rubber boats, and set off on risky sea voyages.

According to the missing migrants project run by the International Organization for Migration, at least 434 migrants were reported dead and 611 missing off Libya in the past eight months. More than 14,100 migrants were intercepted and returned to the chaos-stricken country.

Last year, the IOM reported 962 migrants dead and 1,563 missing off Libya. Around 17,200 migrants were intercepted and returned to Libya in 2023, it said.

Those who are intercepted and returned to Libya are held in government-run detention centers rife with abuses, including forced labor, beatings, rapes and torture — practices that amount to crimes against humanity , according to U.N.-commissioned investigators.

The abuse often accompanies attempts to extort money from the families of the imprisoned migrants before allowing them to leave Libya on traffickers’ boats to Europe.