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Sail Number Application

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Replacing Sail Numbers: Steps, FAQs, Rules

Sometimes a previously used sail comes your way and you need to replace the sail numbers. If you have replacement numbers, you can do it yourself.

Step-by-step instructions

SailZing.com guest contributor Richard Beers, an E Scow and MC Scow sailor, shows how in this pdf document . Click on the link to read his step-by-step instructions.

Can I use acetone to remove the old adhesive?

Richard recommends denatured alcohol. Either acetone or denatured alcohol will work. Neither solvent will damage the sail. Denatured alcohol is less aggressive and won’t remove your pencil lines. Keep either solvent away from colored letters.

If the adhesive is hard to remove, soak a paper towel in the solvent and lay it on the adhesive for awhile.

Where can I get numbers?

Typically, you will get new numbers from your sail maker. Another source is SailRite .

Tell me more about number size and spacing

If you’re placing numbers from scratch, use the class rules for size and spacing (see below).

If the class rules do not specify spacing, use a proportional spacing. For example, for 15″ numbers, use a spacing of about 3″ between numbers. If the numbers “nest” together – like a 7 and 4, measure the 3″ at the closest point between the nested numbers; otherwise they will look too far apart.

How do I avoid wrinkles?

As Richard points out in his article, applying the numbers without wrinkles takes care. Even if the sail is flat, it’s easy to get wrinkles.

You might consider using different techniques for different numbers. See the diagram below.

• Open figures with flat bottoms: 1, 2, 7. Just start at the bottom of the number, peeling a little backing paper off, and following the shape while peeling adhesive off.
• Get the bottom of the figure aligned first. Then start at the bottom and peel a little backing off, working your way up vertically, pulling off the backing as you go.
• 4 and 9. If you really want to be careful, you can open up these numbers by making a slit in both the number and the backing. See the diagram.

Rules regarding sail numbers

Here are excerpts from the Scow, X, and Opti class rules regarding sail numbers.

• Sail numbers of contrasting color with lake designator shall be displayed on the mainsail at all times. 20” numbers and letters are required.
• Class A insignia shall be displayed on the mainsail at all times located in the top 1/3 of the mainsail at the 50% position.
• On both sides of her mainsail. On both sides of her after-deck.
• For mainsail, 18” min., 20” max. placed in accordance with the official sail-letter placement diagram and as follows: with vertical centerline 20” of the leading edge of batten No. 2, and with vertical spacing 12” between all club designator letters and/or racing numbers.
• On the after-deck, 10” in height, place approximately parallel to her rub-rail, facing outboard and in line.
• On sails, they shall be of widely solid contrasting colors, such as dark numbers on white or light colored sails, and white or light colored on dark material.
• Deck numbers shall be of widely contrasting color to the deck color for easy legibility.
• All letters and numbers shall be of a clear cut, vertical, block type design without serif.  The stroke shall be 2.5” min., 3.5” max.
• On sails, letters and numbers may be either marked directly on the sail material or may be of a separate material securely attached thereto.
• On the deck, letters may be either painted directly thereon or may be a plate or in individual letters securely affixed to the deck.
• Letters on sails, or numbers on sails, shall not be back to back nor at the same level above the boom except where letters or numbers are symmetrical and would show identically on both sides of the sail.

Class C and X

• Each yacht must carry on both sides of her mainsail a letter, representing the Member Club from which she is entered, as well as her correct assigned racing number. Any whole integer between 0-999 is allowed. The integer ‘0’ may be represented by ‘0’, ‘00’, or ‘000;’ no other integers shall include leading zeros. The letter and number shall be placed on the sails in accordance with the official sail-letters placement diagram. Sails which have more than one club designator letter shall show the designator letters closely side by side on the same plane. An emblem, letter, or number denoting the class to which the yacht belongs may be affixed, as provided in the Class Scantlings.
• Letters and numbers must be either all blue, red, green, pink, or black of a sans serif, non-italic, non-script font style attached directly to the sail by sewing and/or adhesive. All sails shall have letters and numbers of the same color with a minimum stroke width of 2.5″ and a maximum stroke width of 3.5″.
• Letters and numbers shall be on both sides of the sail and shall not be back to back except where letters and numbers show identically the same on both sides of the sail. Letters and numbers when not back to back shall be higher on the starboard side of the sail.
• Height of letters and numbers: Class C, 18-20″; Class X, 14-16″.
• Centerline of letters and numbers will be located aft the leading edge of the first lower batten as follows, plus or minus 2″: Class C, 36″; Class X, 8″.
• Vertical spacing between letters and numbers will be no less than: Class C, 10″; Class X, 8″.
• MC insignia: The official class insignia for the MC Scow shall be the letter “C” superimposed over the letter “M”. This symbol shall appear on all sails, in letters 15″ in height and of proportional width.
• Sail numbers: Each sail shall bear the number of the yacht in figures of the same proportion as the sail symbol.
• The MC insignia shall he located above the sail numbers. Both shall be located in or near the upper half of the sail.

Here’s a diagram showing the key rules for placement . The full set of rules is shown below:

• Height: 230 mm – 240 mm
• Width (except “1” or “I”): 150 mm – 160 mm
• Width for M and W: 160 mm – 170 mm
• Thickness: 30 mm – 40 mm
• Space between adjoining numbers or letters: 40 mm-50 mm
• Space between rows of numbers or letters: 40 mm – 50 mm
• Space between the national letter groups on opposite sides of the sail: 100 mm -150 mm
• Distance between the luff and the closest letter or number in each row: 150 mm
• Distance between lower edge of uppermost batten pocket and the national letter which is closest to the leech: 40 mm – 50 mm
• Distance between number closest to the leech and the leech: as per RRS Appendix G1.2(b)

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My Cruiser Life Magazine

What are Those Numbers on Sails? More #BoatLife Knowledge

Have you ever noticed how most sailboats have numbers on their sails? It’s one of those small details that you might not think much about.

But depending on what sort of boat you run, those numbers might carry a lot of meaning. Pretty much every boat has sail numbering, but they mean different things to different sailors.

Here’s a look at what those numbers mean and how to choose and install them if you’re ready to be noticed on the water.

Table of Contents

What are sail numbers and what do they mean, factory numbers, one-design or class numbers (like international laser class association), racing yachts and sail number racing rules, cruising boats – owner’s choice, how to pick your numbers, how to apply sailboat numbers, sail numbers and numbers of sails, faqs – questions about sail numbering.

First off, the purpose of sailboat numbers is solely to make your boat easily identifiable from a long way away. In many instances, a group of sailboats looks indistinguishable from one another from shore. Numbers are usually shown on the mainsail, but many racing boats have them installed on every sail they have.

One thing that sail numbering is not is an official registration or documentation number. There are some cases when the number is unique and traceable, but not by any legal state authority.

In most cases, the cruising sailor will say, “so what?” But if you think about it, sail numbers can help another boat identify you and call you on the radio. For example, instead of calling the “White hulled sailboat off of Cape Henry,” a ship could call “Sailboat number 99 near Cape Henry.” That’s a lot more specific and a lot more likely to get your attention. Sail numbers are very easy to read through binoculars, after all.

In contrast, racing sailors are often identified by their numbers. In a racing class, where every boat is identical, the only distinguishing attribute on the entire boat is the number on the sails.

The same is true in the offshore racing world. Many offshore racers have unique numbers assigned by the racing governance boards in their home countries.

Four Types of Sailboat Numbers

So let’s take a closer look at the various types of numbers that might be displayed on a boat’s sails.

This one is for most cruising boats. When the boat is delivered from the factory, they install sails made by their sailmaker. These will always include the boat maker’s logo and some identifying number. Usually, this is a sequential hull number.

For example, my boat displays the distinctive CR38, indicating that it is a Cabo Rico 38. The number 99 refers to the boat’s hull number off of the factory line. Therefore, it is the 99th Cabo Rico 38 that the company made.

This system is entirely random, of course. A builder might choose a different scheme to use or put no numbers on the sails at all.

On another note, sails don’t last forever. Most sailors have to buy new sails every decade or so, and in doing so, no rule says they need to stick with the same numbering scheme the manufacturer did.

For class racing, the numbers are significant because they are often the only way to tell the boats apart while they’re on the water. The whole idea of class racing is that the boats are identical, and only the sailor’s skills win the race.

Each class association issues numbers and class rules dictate precisely how and where the number is displayed.. For example, the International Optimtimis Dinghy Association (IODA) issues numbers for several small classes.

If larger boats are raced offshore in big competitions, it is usually registered with their home country’s national authority. Here in the US, that’s US Sailing. National letters or a country code will usually precede the unique sail number .

US Sailing works with regional associations around the country to ensure that sail numbers are not duplicated. But, of course, there are also large parts of the country that a regional club doesn’t cover, and in those cases, numbers are issued directly from US Sailing.

These US numbers are five digits long. The last four digits are divided up among the regional clubs. So, for example, USA 03000 would be assigned to someone from the Chesapeake Bay Yacht Racing Association .

What if the boat isn’t raced in any official events? As described above, maybe the factory installed the hull number or some other digits of significance. But if those sails are shot and it’s time for new ones, what should the skipper do?

They could choose to do nothing. If sail numbers aren’t crucial in what you do—and they aren’t for most liveaboard and traveling sailors—then you could simply not install any.

Or, you could mimic what the factory did. For example, the company insignia and number on the sail might be meaningful to you, like the maker’s badge on the hood of your car. In that case, you can have it recreated by the sail loft when they build your sails.

Or, you could do something completely original and meaningful to you and your crew. Sail lofts are using modern materials and dyes now that can make sails with printed patterns and graphics.

Many cruising sailors have designed their own logos for use on their sails. One famous example is SV Delos, whose sails feature their YouTube channel’s brand graphics and look great in their videos.

So if you have a cruising boat and need to pick some numbers, how do you figure out what to choose? If you’re buying a new sail, the sail maker can usually help you decide.

But the choice is entirely up to you. You could pick numbers of personal significance, like your birthday or anniversary. You could pick numbers about your boat, like the date you purchased her, her make and model dimensions, or the hull number.

If you don’t know your boat’s hull number, it is usually found in the middle of the HIN, which is the boat’s official hull identification number . The HIN is molded into the boat’s transom and included on all official paperwork. If your boat is registered or documented, the HIN is on the paperwork.

The first few digits of the HIN correspond to the country of origin and the manufacturer. In the middle, there should be a model code or serial number. Finally, the last four digits of the HIN are the date that the boat’s keel was laid by the factory.

If you ever want to apply your own sail numbers, it’s not hard to do. For the most part, they are made with self-adhesive lettering protected by backing paper. The biggest considerations are to ensure that the adhesive is strong enough and that material is pliable enough to be folded with the sail.

You can purchase lettering and logo material from most sail lofts or chandleries. You can also purchase pre-made block letters and numbers specifically intended for sails.

When putting the numbers on the sail, ensure that they are spaced perfectly. You’ll also want to think about how the sail will look when backlit by the sun. You can see the numbers on opposite sides, so you don’t want to let them overlap. Doing so would make both sets illegible on both the port side and starboard side.

Stingy Sailor has a great how-to on making and applying sail numbers .

Finally, we should note one final source of possible confusion. On racing sailboats, different sails are often referred to by different numbers! This isn’t an identification number specific to the boat, like the numbers discussed above.

Instead, this is a style of sail. Sails are numbered based on the wind conditions that they’re best for. Quantum Sails has a good write-up about the different shapes of jib sail and the numbers that correspond to them.

Many cruising sails may be familiar with the Code 0 (zero) sail, suitable for light air. This is an example of this numbering system used on racing boats.

What does sail number mean?

Sail numbers mean different things on different boats. They are simply a way to identify a particular boat from a distance.

On racing boats, the numbers help spectators tell who’s winning—and who’s not. On cruising boats, the numbers are often random and chosen by the boat manufacturer or owner.

How do I identify my sailboat?

Boat’s are commonly identified by a HIN, or hull identification number. This number isn’t found on the sails but rather molded into the boat’s fiberglass hull. It’s usually located somewhere on the transom.

The HIN works just like the VIN (vehicle identification number) in a car. It is unique to that boat and used on all official paperwork, like the registration. You can decode the HIN to find the manufacturer, serial number, and date of manufacture.

What is a number 4 sail?

On racing boats, different-sized headsails are given different numbers. For example, a number 4 jib is a small heavy air sail used in windy conditions.

Racers are always looking for an advantage, so like a golfer might choose a different club for a long drive, a skipper might call for a different sail combination to better match the wind speed and angle.

Matt has been boating around Florida for over 25 years in everything from small powerboats to large cruising catamarans. He currently lives aboard a 38-foot Cabo Rico sailboat with his wife Lucy and adventure dog Chelsea. Together, they cruise between winters in The Bahamas and summers in the Chesapeake Bay.

• sail-numbers

Offshore sail numbers

These sail numbers are an important way of uniquely identifying a yacht for search and rescue  purposes and  are a requirement of the Racing Rules of Sailing, Rule 77 - Identification on Sails. The RYA recommend that all yachts have a unique sail number.

The RYA is responsible for issuing  L,N ,M (multihull) & X series  with L being the current in sequence series. We are also responsible for updating historic Y & T series .

Allocation of a single number is free of charge to RYA Gold Members, £20.00 RYA Personal Members, and £40.00 to  non members  and companies.

It is also possible to obtain an Out  Of  Sequence sail number. These are a great way of personalising your vessel with a meaningful number. These are subject to availability, for further details and prices please contact either [email protected] or call 02380 60  4200.

Applying for an in sequence number

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Sail Numbers

Display your sail number on your sail with adhesive-backed sail numbers. These insignia numbers are made from a sticky back dacron material and do not add any significant weight to the sail. We carry pre-cut style "Euro" numbers and the traditional 'Digital 8' style numbers, which can be cut to any specific number, in a variety of number heights and colors. For Laser sails, select the 12 inch numbers in either Digital 8 or Euro style. We also stock Hobie Cat specific numbers for boats like the Hobie 16, Hobie 17, and Hobie 17 plus Tasar class specific red numbers.

Digital 8 - These are universal numbers in the shape of the digit '8' from which you can cut any specific number you need. 

Pre Cut / Euro  - Unlike Digital 8 numbers, 'Euro' style or 'Pre Cut' numbers are cut to specific numbers or letters for a clean finish. These are preferred by many sailors as they have a higher quality look on the sail.

• Qty in Cart

Sail Number 12" Pre-Cut Euro

Sail Number 12" Digital

Sail Number 9" Pre-Cut Euro

Sail Number 9" Digital

Sail # Country Code Set (2ea) - 12in Euro - USA (Black)

Sail # Country Code Set (2ea) - 12in Euro - USA (Blue)

Sail # Country Code Set (2ea) - 12in Euro - USA (Red)

Sail # 10-Pack - 12in Digital 8's (Black)

Sail # 10-Pack - 12in Digital 8's (Blue)

Sail # 10-Pack - 12in Digital 8's (Red)

Sail # 10-Pack - 9in Digital 8's (Black)

Sail # 10-Pack - 9in Digital 8's (Blue)

Sail # 10-Pack - 9in Digital 8's (Red)

Tasar Sail Numbers

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Sail Number Database

The below table displays all sail numbers which have been already registered in the Australian Sailing sail number database. Sail numbers which are not listed here are available to be reserved via our online application form HERE .

• I f you are using a computer : hold 'Ctrl F' (for PCs) or Command-F (for Macs)  to open the finder tool on your browser and search for information in the Sail Number Database below. Alternatively navigate down the list.7
• If you are using a mobile : click  HERE  to view the excel version of the database. To find a specific sail number record you can either use your mobile 'find on this page' option or scroll through the list.

Note: the sail number database is sorted by sail number.

Karyn Gojnich

Yachting Monthly

• Digital edition

How do I get an MMSI number and call sign?

• Katy Stickland
• June 22, 2020

Send your questions to [email protected] for an expert answer and the chance to win a bottle of Chilgrove Bluewater Gin

Obtaining an MMSI number is relatively easy to do

When we bought our second-hand cruiser, the previous owner had helpfully stuck the vessel’s MMSI number above the VHF radio and written the radio call sign onto the Mayday script stuck to the bulkhead.

I logged a passage with the Coastguard recently over VHF and they asked for my call sign.

I gave them this number, but I have no idea if this is the correct and current number.

Exactly what do the MMSI number and call sign do, why do I need them, and do I need to register my details anywhere to make them valid and up to date?

If so, how and with whom do I do this?

Paul Colley

Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) numbers are a series of nine digits, used to uniquely identify a radio station or group of radio stations.

Ian Lockyer is marketing manager at ICOM (UK) Ltd and is a leading expert in marine radios and communications

When sending a DSC message the MMSI is automatically included, and you can address messages to specific vessels or groups using their MMSIs.

In the UK MMSIs are assigned as a part of the ship’s radio licensing.

All marine VHF, MF and HF radios require the user and vessel to hold a relevant licence.

The vessel’s licence is like a car tax disc, but it is also the key to obtaining an MMSI number.

You can obtain an application form for a ship’s radio by applying via: ofcom.org.uk

Ian Lockyear is marketing manager at ICOM (UK) Ltd and is a leading expert in marine radios and communications

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Sea Eagle II: The inside story of the world’s largest aluminium sailing yacht

• June 17, 2020

Rupert Holmes talks to the build and design teams behind the 81m Royal Huisman flagship Sea Eagle II, which recently completed her sea trials off the coast of the Netherlands

Royal Huisman has an enviable track record of producing superlative sailing superyachts , with hundreds of projects completed to date. Yet the latest vessel to leave the shipyard is extraordinary even by these standards. She is the world’s largest aluminium yacht and is one of the top ten biggest sailing yachts ever built. 

Sea Eagle II is a magnificent 81m/266ft three-masted Panamax schooner, created by the same Dykstra and Mark Whiteley Design collaboration that produced the stunning 56m/186ft Royal Huisman ketch Aquarius just over a year ago. 

Her very experienced owner has sailed all his life and spent a lot of time at sea. “ Sailing around the world in the weekends is a phrase often used to outline his days on board,” says Royal Huisman project manager Arjo Spans. He is also a repeat client – the original Sea Eagle is a 43m/143ft Frers/Rhoades Young design launched by the Dutch yard in 2015. 

Sea Eagle II is due to be delivered to her owner in July 2020. Photo: Tom Van Oossanen

Initially the brief for the new boat was for a more classical yacht, similar to the 79m/259ft three-masted gaff schooner Athena , which Royal Huisman built for Silicon Valley mogul Jim Clark in 2004. However, the owner quickly realised he would prefer a more modern yacht: a fast-looking hull shape with straight lines, long waterline and plumb bow. The concept of Sea Eagle II was born. 

“Having worked with him to build the original Sea Eagle , we understood the owner’s priorities from the start,” says Spans. “These are: low maintenance, functionality, and safety, including ease of moving around the yacht, even when heeled at sea.

“For each of the key aspects of the boat he asked for three proposals, he would then choose one of them and leave us to implement it,” Spans adds. “He put a huge amount of trust in the shipyard and in our craftsmanship.”

Article continues below…

Sailing around Cape Horn on the world’s largest ketch Aquijo

When asked to help guide the 86m/282ft ketch Aquijo for a cruise in Tierra del Fuego and a Cape Horn…

Royal Huisman reveals 116ft ‘floating resort’ catamaran superyacht concept

“This is not a change in direction; it is an expansion of possibilities,” says Jan Timmerman, CEO of the 136-year-old…

The scale of this yacht is nothing short of astounding. The sleek hull lines belie the 4m/13ft freeboard and the two-tier deckhouse, including a half-raised bridge, looks entirely in proportion. The main deck-level accommodation has a huge expanse of glass, with the 360º view interrupted only by minimal mullions. There are also acres of cockpit space, with room left over for a long sweep of uncluttered aft deck.

Mark Whiteley was responsible for developing the interior and refining the exterior styling. He created a simple and modern style for the interior, with straight lines. Lacquered Alpi walnut wall panels, brushed natural oak floors and dark stained wenge trims are complemented by light colour leather handrails and upholstered wall panels.

Part of the brief was for the yacht to be able to host business meetings – the forward part of the superstructure therefore includes a large saloon with expansive seating, plus a 16-seat table for formal dining.

The largest winches are capable of a tremendous 18-tonne pulling load. Photo: Rondal

A technical challenge 

Dykstra Naval Architects drew a narrow and efficient hull shape with a maximum beam of only 12.4m/40ft, while displacement has been kept down to a relatively light 1,050 tonnes at full load. The final shape was achieved following extensive computational flow dynamics (CFD) calculations, velocity prediction programming (VPP), and testing in both tow tanks and wind tunnels. These all helped to determine sail balance, keel position and predicted rudder angles.

The plumb bow is balanced by a modest, but graceful, stern overhang, with a contemporary, relatively wide transom at deck level. Twin knuckle lines extend aft from near the bow, merging into one amidships and then forming a chine aft. Right aft the hull has negative curvature on the flare below the chine, which gives interesting reflections in the gleaming paintwork.

The lead naval architect, Dykstra’s Erik Wassen, told me he introduced the knuckle lines to give the hull “a bolder and more interesting shape.” The owner liked the concept and Mark Whiteley helped to refine the detail. Wassen describes the underwater shape as being: “a very modern round bilge shape, with a nice slender hull that gives good sailing capabilities.” Appendages are a conventional fin keel and balanced rudder.

Photo: Priska van der Meulen

The latter presented an interesting technical challenge, according to Wassen. Initially they looked at fabricating the rudder stock in steel, but that alone would weigh three tonnes. Screening a number of alternatives led to a decision to use carbon for the stock, with a foam core section clad in a relatively thin composite skin for the blade. 

The result is what it’s producer, Royal Huisman’s sister company Rondal, believes to be the biggest ever carbon rudder, weighing only 1,250kg, which helps to keep weight out of the ends of the boat. The weight saving here also enabled the intended fore and aft trim to be achieved with the ballast in its optimal location.

The rudder includes load sensors to record and verify torque, side forces and bending moment while sailing. “There is not much load data available for rudders of this size of sailing yacht, so it’s very conservatively engineered,” says Spans. Fibre-optic sensors are incorporated to enable a database to be created that will help with designing future composite rudders for very large yachts.

Due to the distance of the helm stations from the rudder, the steering is via an electric-hydraulic system, which means there’s no feedback from the helm. The plan is to investigate whether data from the sensors can be used in a feedback system to give a more natural feel to steering the boat under sail. 

Structural engineering

This is one of the most interesting elements of yacht design, yet is all too often under appreciated. Extensive modelling showed a couple of unexpected problems that needed clever solutions during Sea Eagle II ’s design and engineering. 

Instead of the hull flexing smoothly under load, like an I-beam, the presence of a forward intermediate deck introduced hard spots in this area, resulting in stress concentrations at the forward end of the superstructure. This required a lot of design work to create a smooth transition of stress from the lower deck to the intermediate one and then on to the upper deck.

Structural engineering was extensively modelled for Sea Eagle II

The roof of the superstructure also posed a challenge, in that the inside surface of a beam needs to become shorter as it flexes. But the original plan for the aluminium roof wasn’t able to accommodate this, with the result the modelling showed stresses concentrating in the corners of the mullions and in the glass itself. 

The solution was to avoid welding the top of the mullions to the roof, opting instead for a flexible joint that allows for movement when necessary. Wassen likens it to the joints in large buildings that need to be included to allow for thermal expansion and contraction.

Whiteley also helped to refine the exterior styling. In addition to the detail of the knuckles, his input helped to refine the shapes – particularly curves and softening corners – in the superstructure.

COVID-19 restrictions meant her delivery date had to be pushed back by 3 months. Photo: Crea Fragma / Rondal

Panamax rig

The requirement to be able to clear the Bridge of the Americas at the Pacific end of the Panama canal called for the schooner rig with three equal masts. All are of carbon and are made by Rondal, with integrated sail handling systems and Carbo-Link carbon standing rigging.

Each mast has in-boom furling, while the aft two have staysails for use when reaching. The tank and wind tunnel testing was used to verify different headsail options, particularly to determine the differences between a large blade jib versus a large staysail or yankee.

“Obviously you have better windward performance with a large blade,” says Wassen, “but as soon as you bear away the yankee is much more forgiving in trimming, so we decided that made more sense.” A further advantage is that when the yankee is part furled the sheeting point remains the same. 

Rondal’s Integrated Sailing System consists of the three carbon Panamax masts with furling booms, hydraulic boomvangs, headsail furling systems, deck winches and equipment, captive winches and continuous solid carbon standing rigging by Carbo-Link, all equipped with load sensing capabilities. Photo: Rondal

In addition, a blade jib requires much higher sheet loads to maintain leech tension. Even though Sea Eagle II is a three-masted yacht, the yankee sheet loads are still predicted to reach 18 tonnes – but this still allows standard-size captive winches to be used, rather than larger custom-made units.

The Panamax limitation obviously poses the question as to whether sail area needed to be compromised to fulfil this criteria. However, this is clearly not the case for Sea Eagle II . Hull speed is close to 20 knots and the yacht is clearly capable of surfing at much higher speeds, despite being designed as a pure cruiser. This role, of course, suggests keeping heel angles to a maximum of 10-15°. 

Nevertheless, the VPP figures suggest potential boat speeds of 17-18 knots in 16 knots of true breeze with a true wind angle of 70°. “As soon as you can ease the sheets a little bit, we have a lot of sail area,” says Wassen, “so on a beam reach, I wouldn’t be surprised if a steady 20 knots is possible.” 

Specification

LOA: 81m (266ft) Air draught: 62m (205ft) Hull: Aluminium Guest accommodation: 11 Crew accommodation: 14 Exterior styling: Dykstra Naval Architects and Mark Whiteley Design Naval Architecture: Dykstra Naval Architects Interior design: Mark Whiteley Design Classification: Lloyd’s MCA (LY-3)

First published in the April 2020 edition of Supersail World.

Largest Sailing Yachts in the World (with Price & Owners)

In this list of the largest sailing yachts in the world, you'll discover the top 20 remarkable ones, from the groundbreaking Sailing Yacht A at 469 feet to Jeff Bezos' massive Y721 (aka Koru) that spans 416 feet. The owners of these magnificent yachts are often influential figures in various industries, such as technology, finance, and real estate.

Sailing Yacht "A", the largest sailing yacht in the world, is owned by Russian billionaire Andrey Melnichenko, who also owns Mikhail S. Vorontsov and Hetairos. Other large sailing yachts are:

• Black Pearl
• Maltese Falcon
• Sea Eagle II

The yachting industry is bound to keep evolving and pushing the limits of what's possible. Who knows, maybe by 2024, the new Somnio "yacht-liner" might redefine our concept of luxury sailing altogether. For now, let's get to know more about these 20 sailing yachts, their prices, and their owners.

• Sailing Yacht "A", built in 2015, is worth $600 million. It can accommodate 20 guests and 54 crew members.
• The largest sailing yacht was designed by Philippe Starck and built by the German shipyard Nobiskrug.
• Andrey Melnichenko is a prominent figure in the worlds of business, yachting, and philanthropy.
• Top-notch industry players such as Oceanco, Lürssen, Royal Huisman, and Vitters Shipyard are known for their attention to detail and form-function balance, which could potentially increase the yacht's price.

On this page:

20 largest sailing yachts, the largest sailing yacht in the world, world's largest yacht is owned by....

Sailing Yacht A — 142.81M (468.6 Ft.)

You may have heard of Sailing Yacht A, a luxurious superyacht measuring 143 meters in length. Owned by Russian billionaire Andrey Melnichenko, this yacht is famous for its blend of modern design and cutting-edge technology. Its price is estimated to be around $500 million.

Sailing Yacht "A" is unique for its futuristic design, which includes a towering masts that are among the tallest in the world, a curved hull, and a striking all-black exterior. The yacht also features a state-of-the-art hybrid propulsion system that allows it to sail silently and efficiently under wind power, as well as a range of luxurious amenities such as a swimming pool, a helipad, and a spa.

Koru — 127M (416 Ft.)

Amazon founder Jeff Bezos owns the breathtaking Oceanco's record-breaking 127-meter sailing yacht, Koru. This sailing giant was built in the Netherlands in 2023.

Koru is unique for its custom design, which was created by the renowned naval architect Ron Holland and features a sleek and modern exterior with clean lines and a metallic silver finish. The yacht also features a range of luxurious amenities, including a beach club, a cinema, and a spa, as well as a hybrid propulsion system that allows for efficient and flexible sailing.

Sea Cloud — 109.5M (359 Ft.)

At 109.52 meters, the elegant Sea Cloud is a breathtaking four-masted sailing ship built in 1931. It operates primarily as a luxurious charter yacht, providing guests with a unique, unforgettable experience.

Sea Cloud is unique for its historic charm and elegance, having been built in 1931 as a private yacht for a wealthy American couple. The yacht has since been restored and converted into a luxury cruise ship, but still retains many of its original features, including a wooden deck, brass fittings, and period furnishings. Sea Cloud also offers a unique sailing experience, with guests able to help hoist the sails and steer the ship.

Black Pearl — 106.7M (350 Ft.)

The eco-friendly Black Pearl, measuring 106.7 meters in length, boasts state-of-the-art DynaRig technology and holds the title of the world's largest sailing yacht, at least, when it comes to sail area.

Black Pearl is unique for its advanced technology and cutting-edge design, including a revolutionary DynaRig sail system that allows for efficient and flexible sailing, as well as a hybrid propulsion system that can switch seamlessly between diesel and electric power. The yacht also features a range of luxurious amenities, including a beach club, a cinema, and a spa.

Eos — 93M (305 Ft.)

The stunning 92.92-meter sailing yacht Eos has a classic design and high-performance capabilities. Owned by American fashion designer Diane von Fürstenberg and American businessman Barry Diller, it is one of the largest private sailing yachts in the world.

Eos is unique for its size and spacious interior, which includes a range of luxurious amenities such as a full-size bar, a cinema, and a spa. The yacht also features a hybrid propulsion system that allows for efficient and flexible sailing, as well as a classic and elegant design with traditional features such as wooden decks and brass fittings.

Athena — 90M (295 Ft.)

Athena, an impressive 90-meter superyacht, includes five en-suite cabins, a gym, and a library. Built by Royal Huisman, this classic schooner combines luxury with deep sea exploration capabilities.

Athena is unique for its classic design and traditional sailing techniques, having been modeled after the famous J-class yachts of the 1930s. The yacht features a wooden hull, a towering mast, and a range of vintage features such as brass fittings and period furnishings. Athena also offers a range of luxurious amenities, including a swimming pool, a gym, and a library.

Maltese Falcon — 88M (289 Ft.)

You'll be amazed by the innovative Maltese Falcon, a 88-meter sailing yacht. It features a revolutionary DynaRig system and is owned by Greek socialite Elena Ambrosiadou.

Maltese Falcon is unique for its innovative DynaRig sail system, which allows for efficient and flexible sailing without the need for traditional sails and rigging. The yacht also features a range of luxurious amenities, including a beach club, a cinema, and a spa, as well as a unique interior design that combines modern and traditional elements.

Aquijo — 85.9M (282 Ft.)

The 85-meter superyacht Aquijo is the perfect example of elegance and high-performance on the water. With an impressive interior, it offers the ultimate sailing experience.

Aquijo is unique for its large size and spacious interior, which includes a main salon with a double-height ceiling, a full-size bar, and a dining area that can seat up to 20 guests. The yacht also features a range of luxurious amenities, including a beach club, a cinema, and a spa, as well as a unique hybrid propulsion system that allows for efficient and flexible sailing.

Sea Eagle II — 81M (266 Ft.)

The 81-meter Sea Eagle II, built by Royal Huisman, features a plumb bow, an exceptional sailing performance, and spacious interiors.

Sea Eagle II is unique for its classic design and traditional sailing techniques, having been modeled after the historic tall ships of the 19th century. The yacht features a wooden hull, a towering mast, and a range of vintage features such as brass fittings and period furnishings. Sea Eagle II also offers a range of luxurious amenities, including a beach club, a cinema, and a spa, as well as a spacious and comfortable interior with a classic and elegant design.

M5 — 78.4M (257.2 Ft.)

Owned by American businessman Rodney Lewis, the 75-meter M5 is a luxurious yacht built by Southern Ocean Marine with impressive sailing capabilities.

M5 is unique for its advanced sail system, which includes a set of high-tech carbon-fiber sails that can be adjusted automatically to optimize performance and efficiency. The yacht also features a range of luxurious amenities, including a beach club, a cinema, and a spa, as well as a sleek and modern interior design with clean lines and contemporary furnishings.

Enigma — 74.5M (244 Ft.)

Enigma, formerly known as Phocea, is a 75-meter sailing yacht known for her sleek profile and extraordinary speed capabilities.

Enigma is unique for its sleek and modern design, which includes a striking silver exterior and a minimalist interior with clean lines and contemporary furnishings. The yacht also features a range of luxurious amenities, including a beach club, a cinema, and a spa, as well as a hybrid propulsion system that allows for efficient and flexible sailing.

Badis I — 70M (230 Ft.)

Badis 1, a 70.8-meter sailing yacht, boasts a stunning aluminum hull, a powerful rig, and a luxurious interior accommodating up to 12 guests.

Badis I is unique for its classic design and traditional sailing techniques, having been modeled after the famous J-class yachts of the 1930s. The yacht features a wooden hull, a towering mast, and a range of vintage features such as brass fittings and period furnishings. Badis I also offers a range of luxurious amenities, including a beach club, a cinema, and a spa, as well as a spacious and comfortable interior with a classic and elegant design.

Vertigo — 67.2M (220 Ft.)

Famed for its contemporary design, Vertigo is a 67-meter sailing yacht built by Alloy Yachts. With impressive features and an award-winning interior, it's a dream come true for sailing enthusiasts.

Vertigo is unique for its striking and modern design, which includes a sleek and minimalist exterior and a spacious and comfortable interior with clean lines and contemporary furnishings. The yacht also features a range of luxurious amenities, including a beach club, a cinema, and a spa, as well as a hybrid propulsion system that allows for efficient and flexible sailing.

Hetairos — 66.7M (219 Ft.)

Hetairos, owned by a Russian billionaire, is a 66.7-meter high-performance sailing yacht. With an advanced composite hull, it promises excellent speed and luxurious amenities.

Hetairos is unique for its advanced composite construction, which makes it one of the fastest and most efficient sailing yachts in the world. The yacht also features a range of luxurious amenities, including a beach club, a cinema, and a spa, as well as a striking black and silver exterior design.

Adix — 65.5M (215 Ft.)

The 65.5-meter three-masted schooner Adix is a beautiful sailing yacht known for its timeless design and quality craftsmanship.

Adix is unique for its classic design and traditional sailing techniques, having been modeled after the historic tall ships of the 19th century. The yacht features a wooden hull, a towering mast, and a range of vintage features such as brass fittings and period furnishings. Adix also offers a range of luxurious amenities, including a beach club, a cinema, and a spa, as well as a spacious and comfortable interior with a classic and elegant design.

Mikhail S. Vorontsov — 63.4M (208 Ft.)

The Mikhail S. Vorontsov is a 64.5-meter sailing yacht with a completely wooden hull, offering a classic and captivating charm.

Mikhail S. Vorontsov is unique for its opulent and extravagant design, which includes a range of luxurious features such as a grand staircase, a full-size ballroom, and a range of ornate decorations and furnishings. The yacht also features a range of modern amenities, including a beach club, a cinema, and a spa, as well as a hybrid propulsion system that allows for efficient and flexible sailing.

Perseus^3 — 60M (197 Ft.)

The high-performance sailing yacht Perseus^3, measuring 60 meters in length, includes a carbon-fiber mast, a powerful regatta rig, and cutting-edge features for the ultimate sailing experience.

Perseus^3 is unique for its advanced sail system, which includes a set of high-tech carbon-fiber sails that can be adjusted automatically to optimize performance and efficiency. The yacht also features a range of luxurious amenities, including a beach club, a cinema, and a spa, as well as a sleek and modern interior design.

Ngoni — 58M (190 Ft.)

Ngoni, a stunning 58-meter sailing yacht built by Royal Huisman, is known for its innovative design and advanced sailing technology.

Ngoni is unique for its unconventional design, which includes a striking black and gold exterior and a minimalist interior with clean lines and contemporary furnishings. The yacht also features a range of luxurious amenities, including a beach club, a cinema, and a spa, as well as a hybrid propulsion system that allows for efficient and flexible sailing.

Twizzle — 57.5M (188 Ft.)

Last but not least, the 57.5-meter sailing yacht Twizzle offers exceptional sailing performance paired with timeless elegance, making for a luxurious experience on the water.

Twizzle is unique for its spacious and comfortable interior, which includes a range of luxurious amenities such as a full-size bar, a cinema, and a spa. The yacht also features a hybrid propulsion system that allows for efficient and flexible sailing, as well as a sleek and modern design with clean lines and contemporary furnishings.

Fleurtje — 57.4M (188 Ft.)

Fleurtje is a classic sailing yacht that was built in 1961 by the Dutch shipyard De Vries Lentsch. The yacht underwent a major refit in 1993, which included the installation of a new engine, a new mast, and a range of modern amenities.

Fleurtje features a classic design with a wooden hull and a traditional rig, which gives it a timeless and elegant appearance. The yacht also features a spacious and comfortable interior with a range of luxurious amenities, including a full-size bar, a cinema, and a spa. It is also known for its impressive sailing performance, with a top speed of 12 knots under sail and a range of advanced technologies that allow for efficient and flexible sailing.

Is Sailing Yacht "A", which is 143 meters long, 24.88 meters wide, has a draft of 8 meters, and weighs 1428 tons. It can accommodate 20 guests, and has 54 crew members.

The crew sizes, and operating costs of these yachts can vary widely depending on a number of factors, including the size and complexity of the yacht, the level of luxury and amenities onboard, and the location and frequency of use.

Russian billionaire Andrey Melnichenko. Melnichenko is known for his extravagant lifestyle and his love of luxury yachts. He is the owner of the largest and iconic Sailing Yacht "A", which is considered one of the most expensive and technologically advanced yachts ever built. He is also the owner of the motor yacht "A", which was built by the same shipyard as Sailing Yacht "A" and features a similarly striking design.

Melnichenko was born on March 8, 1972, in Gomel, Belarus. In addition to his business and yachting interests, Melnichenko is also a philanthropist who supports a range of charitable causes through his Andrey & Aleksandra Melnichenko Foundation. The foundation focuses on supporting education, science, and culture, and has provided funding for a range of projects in Russia and around the world.

Melnichenko is one of the wealthiest people in Russia, with a net worth of over $18 billion, according to Forbes. He made his fortune in the energy and chemical industries, having founded the fertilizer producer EuroChem and the coal producer SUEK. He is also a major shareholder in the power company Siberian Generating Company and the pipe producer TMK.

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