Top 5 Largest Yachts in the World - Eclipse
At 560’ in length, the mega ship Eclipse ranks first in the Top 5 Largest Yachts in the World. Built in 2009 by Blohm & Voss of Hamburg, Germany, the Eclipse reportedly cost USD $1.2 billion upon completion and is owned by Russian business tycoon, Roman Abramovich. Let’s take a closer look at the number one ship in the Top 5 Largest Yachts in the World, the Eclipse.
Surprisingly enough, even though the Eclipse is the largest yacht in the world, only 24 guests can be accommodated onboard the 9-decks of the ship; but, of course, passengers are treated to a spacious VIP suite with a generous balcony offering endless views. For inside entertainment, the Eclipse has several lounges, a bar and library, plus a disco, theater, and an indoor pool; while outside on the expansive decks, guests can enjoy a second swimming pool, hot tubs, plus use of numerous pleasure boats and a selection of no less than twenty jet skis.
The security features on this extravagant mega yacht are reminiscent of a James Bond movie. Should a terrorist threat occur, the 12 passenger mini-submarine (capable of submerging to 164′) will whisk passengers away to safety. The captain remains safe behind the bullet-proof glass and armor plating of the bridge; the owner’s suite is equipped with the same safety characteristics. The Eclipse also features an on board radar missile defense system and motion sensors throughout; there are five scheduled escape routes from the yacht should the need arise.
Top 5 Largest Yachts in the World - Eclipse
As a public politician, billionaire businessman, and owner of the Chelsea Football Club, Abramovich understands the need for privacy. In the name of ensuring the privacy of his guests, Abramovich had the Eclipse fitted with anti-paparazzi laser lights that flash directly at a camera upon detecting a charge-coupled device; this feature is only activated when photographers are suspected to be nearby. At 5,000 square feet, the owner’s suite located on the fifth deck features a private balcony and garden; and for guest convenience, depending upon the location of their cabin, the Eclipse offers two helicopter landing pads for arrival and departures plus three tender ships located on the aft floating harbor.
Capable of cruising at a maximum 25 knots, the Eclipse provides panoramic views from a curved glass room located in the stern allowing for a 270° range of vision. The Eclipse is currently receiving finishing touches as it awaits its maiden voyage set for the summer of 2010; celebrations could be in store as is this concurrent with the last match of the Premier League where the Chelsea Football Club is currently in first place.
Founded in 1877, Blohm and Voss Shipyards were recently awarded the 2009 Asia Boating Award for the “Most Innovative Exterior Yacht Design of the Year” and the 2008 World Yacht Trophy in the “Custom over 40 Meters Most Innovative” category. These accomplishments are showcased in the Eclipse as this super yacht ranks as number one in the Top 5 Largest Yachts in the World.
Read about the second largest yacht
Sources:
Flickr Photo Credits: Eclipse (1) by E.Schlumpf; Eclipse (2) by E.Schlumpf
Wikipedia
Blohm & Voss
Articles Base
Ships and Yacht Information
Book Rags