Top 7 Private Yachts in the USA
The world of private yachts is synonymous with opulence, freedom, and unmatched leisure. In the USA, luxury yachting has seen a significant rise in popularity, with elite owners investing in floating palaces that boast everything from helipads and cinemas to onboard spas and personal submarines. These vessels are more than just boats—they’re symbols of status, engineering marvels, and ocean-going masterpieces. Here’s a list of the top seven private yachts in the United States that define extravagance, innovation, and elite maritime living.
1. M/Y Rising Sun
Length: 454 feet
Owner: David Geffen (Entertainment Mogul)
Builder: Lürssen Yachts
Originally commissioned by Oracle CEO Larry Ellison and later sold to David Geffen, Rising Sun is one of the largest private yachts in the world. This German-built vessel features 82 rooms, including a wine cellar, a spa, a gym, and even a basketball court that doubles as a helipad.
The yacht’s sleek design and massive scale make it a floating mansion. It accommodates up to 16 guests and more than 40 crew members, providing ultimate comfort and service on the seas.
Highlights: Onboard basketball court, cinema room, and luxurious staterooms.
2. M/Y Octopus
Length: 414 feet
Owner: Formerly Paul Allen (Co-founder of Microsoft)
Builder: Lürssen Yachts
Though now available for charter, Octopus was originally built for the late Paul Allen and remains one of the most iconic American-owned yachts. Designed for exploration and research as much as pleasure, Octopus features two helipads, a recording studio, a submarine, and a pool.
The yacht is built for global travel, capable of venturing into remote waters with comfort and style. Its onboard luxury includes a wellness center, library, and multiple dining and lounging areas.
Unique Features: Dual helicopters, submarine, world-class exploration capabilities.
3. M/Y Aquilo
Length: 150 feet
Owner: Private American Businessman
Builder: Delta Marine
Aquilo offers a sleek, sophisticated design with the perfect blend of performance and comfort. Known for its stylish interiors and powerful build, this American-owned yacht is ideal for personal getaways and private charters.
The yacht features a full-beam master suite, guest staterooms, a hot tub, and expansive deck space for sunbathing and socializing. Designed for West Coast cruising, Aquilo is a favorite in regions like San Diego, Seattle, and the Pacific Northwest.
Best For: Coastal luxury, private getaways, and elite charters.
4. M/Y Limitless
Length: 315 feet
Owner: Leslie Wexner (Founder of L Brands)
Builder: Lürssen Yachts
One of the largest yachts ever built in the USA, Limitless remains a marvel of luxury engineering. It was customized to meet the precise needs of billionaire retail mogul Leslie Wexner and is known for its extraordinary range and comfort.
Its interiors are designed by renowned designer François Catroux and include a helipad, gym, luxurious lounges, and multiple guest cabins. Though much of the yacht’s details remain private, its sheer size and elegance are enough to earn it a top spot on this list.
Defining Features: Built-in helipad, elegant private interiors, global cruising range.
5. M/Y Aquila
Length: 280 feet
Owner: American Technology Billionaire (Undisclosed)
Builder: Derecktor Shipyards (USA)
Aquila, formerly known as Cakewalk, is one of the largest yachts ever built in the USA. The yacht underwent a major refit in 2016 and has been transformed into a luxurious retreat with a modern, clean design and exceptional onboard features.
It includes a cinema, beach club, several bars, a wellness center, and accommodation for up to 14 guests. The main salon is a work of art, and the master suite is a private sanctuary with 180-degree ocean views.
Luxury Points: Onboard cinema, beach club, American-built excellence.
6. M/Y Attessa IV
Length: 332 feet
Owner: Dennis Washington (Industrialist)
Builder: Originally built by Evergreen Shipyard; refitted by Washington Yachting Group
Attessa IV is a stunning example of yacht transformation. Once a commercial vessel, it was rebuilt into a luxury superyacht by billionaire Dennis Washington. The rebuild took several years and turned the ship into one of the most glamorous private yachts in the country.
It features a helicopter landing pad, a spa, a pool with a bar, a full gym, and lavish interior design by Glade Johnson. The yacht frequently cruises along the West Coast and in the Caribbean.
Standout Amenities: Art-deco interiors, spa with massage room, world-class dining facilities.
7. M/Y Excellence
Length: 262 feet
Owner: Herb Chambers (Luxury Car Dealer)
Builder: Abeking & Rasmussen
The name says it all—Excellence is a floating masterpiece of sleek lines, futuristic glasswork, and modern elegance. Owned by American billionaire Herb Chambers, this yacht is recognized for its cutting-edge design and innovation.
Its main feature is the dramatic inverted bow and glass-walled atrium, which provide spectacular panoramic views. The yacht includes an indoor/outdoor swimming pool, a cinema, beach club, and water toys galore.
Why It’s Special: Architectural innovation, glass atrium, and chic interior design.
Final Thoughts
From billionaires in tech and fashion to private entrepreneurs, the allure of owning a luxury yacht in the USA is stronger than ever. These yachts are more than just vessels—they are expressions of wealth, innovation, and a deep appreciation for the sea.
Whether designed for exploration, relaxation, or social extravagance, each of these top seven yachts represents a pinnacle of private maritime living. With onboard cinemas, spas, submarines, and even basketball courts, these floating palaces redefine what it means to experience the ultimate in luxury