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The Best Motor Yachts by Length  in 2024

The motor yachts assembled here are ordered by length (LOA) and include a range from super cabin cruisers to superyachts.

This is a guide to the 15 most impressive motor yachts in different sizes and categories.

This review of motor yachts is a celebration of design in both form and function. Brands, model and size of motor yacht. These water vessels give individuals unlimited freedom and access to all the oceans, and lakes of the earth.

Motor yachts today are both rugged and highly sophisticated. They are large watercraft with impressive levels of functionality that provide safety, comfort, and privacy. They are the ideal haven to chill and unwind, especially if you love being on the water like we do.

We’ve been going to boat shows and hitching rides when possible to make this list.

Here are 15 of the best motor yacht brands to make it easy.

They are shown in order of size, increasing to the super yachts that require a large crew to run.

We have removed some models owned by associates of the Russian regime. The Lurssen Nord is just one example.

Top 5 Best Motor Yachts in 2024

All the motor yachts we've tested, tecnomar lamborghini 63 yacht.

Where to buy:

Where to buy tecnomar lamborghini 63 yacht:.

Lamborghini has big plans to commemorate the brand’s 60th anniversary. The iconic Italian automaker started manufacturing in 1963. Building 63 limited edition supercars, dubbed the Siàn, wasn’t enough. The carmaker also has teamed up with Tecnomar, part of the Italian Sea Group shipyards, to build 63 limited-edition yachts.

The result is the Tecnomar for Lamborghini 63. It’s 63 feet long and will do 63 knots flat out. That puts it on a short list of the world’s fastest motor yachts. To achieve such a feat, twin V12 MAN diesel engines are paired with a state-of-the-art hull design. The ride is fast but also smooth, comfortable, and sporty. It’s a nautical experience that is becoming of the Lamborghini name.

• Length: 63 feet (19.2 meters)
• Beam: 18 feet (5.5 meters)
• Dry displacement: 52,910 pounds (24 tonnes)
• Engines: 2x MAN V12-2000 twin-turbo, 24.24 liter, common-rail marine diesels
• Total power: 4,000 hp (2,942 kW)
• Total torque: 9,388 lb-ft (13,000 Nm)
• Max Speed: 63 knots (73 mph, 117 kph)
• Cruising Speed: 41 knots (46 mph, 74 kph)
• Fuel consumption (max): 212 gph (800 l/h)
• Fuel consumption (cruising) : 132 gph (500 l/h)
• Fuel tankage: 951 gal (3,600 liters)
• Water tankage: 159 gal (600 liters)
• CE Category: B-16

Things we like:

Things we don't like:.

Jeanneau US

Jeanneau Worldwide

Jeanneau Merry Fisher 1295

Where to Book:

Where to book jeanneau merry fisher 1295:.

All new for 2023, Jeanneau has introduced the Merry Fisher 1295 Fly, also called the NC Weekender 1295 Fly. At just over 40 feet, this true three-level yacht boasts three staterooms, two heads, tons of comfortable seating and lounge space, and enough storage to bring all your stuff with you.

Beyond helm features for easier docking, this cabin cruiser is designed to carry you and your family comfortably. There’s not really another 40-foot flybridge that offers as much as the 1295 for the same price point.

The spacious salon level features sliding glass doors that open onto the aft cockpit. The aft galley is fully appointed and allows for the perfect flow for socialization during meals and hanging out. The cockpit features a walkthrough boarding door to port and a large fold-down swim terrace to starboard.

Finally, the staterooms and heads are large and comfortable, with plenty of storage and headroom below.

• Length: (Overall/Hull) 41 feet, 2 inches/12.56 meters; 39 feet, 1 inch/11.92 meters
• Beam: 12 feet, 6 inches/3.80 meters
• Draft: 2 feet, 6 inches/0.76 meters
• Hull Weight: 18,031 pounds/8,181 kilograms
• Bridge Clearance: 16 feet, 5 inches/5.0 meters
• Fuel Capacity: 310 gallons/1,174 liters
• Engines: 3x 300 horsepower Yamaha outboards
• CE Category: B10/C12

Fleming Yachts

Where to buy Fleming 55:

The Fleming 55 motor yacht is stylish and designed for comfortable long range cruising and boasts a huge storage capacity with a total area of over 250 sq ft. The nautical design displacement hull has a range of 2,000 nm with an environmentally friendly low fuel burn of just over 10 gph.

The yacht is fitted with an aquadrive anti-vibration drive system for smooth cruising. The Fleming 55 aft deck is large and spacious and extends into the salon with loads of room for deck chairs and water gear. Interior has beautiful mood lighting.

It consists of 3 good size cabins so can overnight 6 – 8 adults in comfort, and it has 3 separate heads and a beautiful raised pilot house for the skipper or captain. The master cabin is set forward as a queen berth and the bed is remote and can retract. The aft bulkhead can be used as a remote work office. The salon has an L-settee, fitted icemaker, bar, cute coffee table and TV lift area and there is room for added entertainment system components.

Another awesome added feature is the fitted “dumbwaiter” that assists in getting refreshments up from the galley. The galley is fitted with a side-by-side fridge freezer set and an under-mount double stainless steel sink with a waste disposer. This yacht is a classic and is worth viewing.

• Length: 55’9"
• Dry Weight: 67,801 lbs
• Capacity: 6 - 8 people
• Motor: 2 x 500HP Cummins QSC Engines

Grand Trawler 62

Where to buy Grand Trawler 62:

The Grand Trawler 62 from Beneteau hits the mark all round and is super comfortable for both live aboard and long-distance cruises. Designed to overnight 6 to 8 adults on board this gorgeous motor yacht showcases one the largest flybridges on the market for its hull length. The crisp clean interior design reflects the superior quality and workmanship that sets Beneteau’s unmistakable brand apart from the rest.

Beneteau has absolutely hit the mark with the design on this motor yacht. It features an open flowing galley, huge lounge salon and raised cockpit. The transom has a unique sea terrace area, and the master cabin layout is private and beautiful and boasts a full size double bed. It provides soft smooth comfort on board if planning long range cruising with a gyro-stabilizer and the auto-glide trim tabs.

• Length: 62’
• Beam: 17’10"
• Dry Weight: 29,500 lbs
• Motor: MANi6 730 2 x 730 HPDiesel (2x537kW)

Leopard Catamarans

Leopard 46 Powercat

Where to buy Leopard 46 Powercat:

If you are seeking extra space for entertaining and separate private berths for the crew on long passages, then the Leopard 46 is a great alternative motor yacht option to consider when deciding on a brand. Awesome for cruising, docking and anchoring, the top deck offers a great 360-degree view for sundowners. The advantage of a cat-style motor yacht is the low hull depth it has making it easy to cruise, dock or anchor in low depth ocean waters.

The exterior and interior spaces flow into each other, so the use of space is maximized, giving great volume. There is a spacious 3 or 4 cabin en-suite configuration for this hull length, perfect for guests where privacy matters. Loads of deck space for everyone to spread out and enjoy. It is streamlined and neat in terms of layout, practical use of space, giving you a nice feeling of relaxation and a home away from home feel. Awesome size U-shaped settee caters for 8 guests to dine in comfort, so perfect for entertaining or unforgettable candle-light evenings.

• Length: 46’4"
• Beam: 24’1"
• Dry Weight: 36,945 lbs
• Capacity: 8 - 12 people
• Motor: 2 x Yanmar 52 HP

Back Cove Yachts

Back Cove 41

Where to buy Back Cove 41:

The Back Cove 41 is designed and constructed in Maine, USA. The 41 is the flagship of the Back Cove motor yacht range. The motor yacht is a perfect combination of traditional and modern in terms of its design. It is a very economical and comfortable classic for long range excursions.

The yacht is fitted with an efficient single diesel engine and straight shaft, thrusters, a generator set, and reverse cycle heat and air conditioning systems for more extreme weather conditions. With no fly bridge it is easy to captain and maneuver singlehanded and it can overnight up to 6 adults.

This elegant yet practical motor boat consists of two state cabins, two heads and a well-thought-out saloon. The interior is balanced and sensible with a dual stainless steel refrigerator & freezer set, a simple ceramic cooktop surface and a fitted convection microwave and a groovy U-shaped settee that converts into a dinette. Comfortable, stately and classic cruising yacht for all purposes.

• Length: 46’6”
• Capacity: 6 people
• Motor: Cummins QSC8.3 marine diesel engine

Nordic Tugs

Nordic Tug 54

Where to buy Nordic Tug 54:

These sturdy ocean vessels are made in the US in the original classic tugboat style, rugged from the outside and the best kept secret is that they are incredibly beautiful and comfortable on the inside. A perfect floating home away from home for a live-aboard adventure and capable of exploring and facing all types of oceans that may have more adverse weather systems.

This tug style motor yacht has both a pilothouse and lower deck, and then an open flow from the salon into the aft deck. The hull is made from solid knitted fiberglass reinforced plastic and fitted with solid stainless steel handrails. The design offers safety and absolute comfort and they are built to last for many years. For long range expeditions, it has 1,300 gallon fuel capacity in a dual set of tanks and 300 gallon water holding capacity and large black water holding tank at 130 gallon capacity.

This cruising motor yacht boasts classic teak interiors, a classic chart drawer and there is every attention to detail on the cabinets and draws throughout. It has 2 comfortable queen size berths below. Day – night shaded solid fitted windows are in the salon. The galley is beautiful and features a functional and spacious U-shaped solid surface countertop. Viewing this motor yacht interior is worth it. Solid lasting stainless steel finishes throughout and a functional extra stainless steel basin fitted in the aft deck. Split air heating and cooling system installed so perfect for all extreme weather conditions.

• Length: 56’1"
• Beam: 16’1"
• Dry Weight: 68,000 lbs
• Capacity: 4 - 6 people
• Motor: Volvo Penta – D11 – 670 HP Diesel

Bertram Yachts

Bertram 61 Convertible

Where to buy Bertram 61 Convertible:

The Bertrams 61 is a sporty bluewater fishing cruiser and is a perfect man cave that is fit for a king and perfect for a 6 person cruising or fishing adventure. Every attention to solid long lasting detail on layout, fittings and the hull design. The expansive 188 ft cockpit has a barbeque and has huge customized fish boxes.

The classic Amtico teak and maple wood interior is unreal and the saloon has a 360 degree view with large windows. It has 2 cabins, the master has a queen size double bed, and the second has 2 single beds (bunk bed option). The galley doubles up into a bar with shellacked wood stools. Well worth viewing in person, and definitely wet weather gear required with this one!

• Length: 61’1"
• Beam: 18’3"
• Motor: Caterpillar C32 ACERT diesels

Azimut Yachts

Azimut Magellano 66

Where to buy Azimut Magellano 66:

The Azimut Magellano 66 has a striking visual appeal. The innovative dual-mode hull on this motor yacht decreases the use of horsepower making this vessel super fuel efficient for long range distances.

This 66 foot motor yacht has a near 2,000 mile range, so all those secret hideaway coves and overnight destinations will be well within your reach. The progressive interior space allows for 6 – 8 adults to be in total comfort for cruising, docking or adventures on anchor.

Aesthetically balanced, this motor yacht interior is streamlined and contemporary with attention to every detail. The fly bridge is fitted with a barbecue for entertainment, and an outdoor shower for fresh water splashes after an early morning swim. The saloon offers a beautiful indoor entertainment space. The entire motor yacht is fitted with customised innovative cabinets for storage and neatness. Below deck are three spacious private staterooms. Well worth viewing the Azimut 66 in person, this is a very sought after motor yacht design.

• Length: 66’1"
• Dry Weight: 46,400 lbs
• Capacity: 6 - 10 people
• Motor: 425-hp Cummins QSB 5.9s

Prestige Yachts

Prestige X70

Where to buy Prestige X70:

Prestige Yachts X70 launches the unique compact motor superyacht that dreams are made of. Captains, owners and skippers are going to love the infinite cockpit area, it is super comfortable and spacious. A new feature is that the upper fly deck layout has a walk area on each side for ease of access. The maritime-angled window gives the classic yacht exterior shape a more çheeky sporty feel.

A refreshing spacious open plan layout that flows right throughout the yacht allows you to add small elements of comfort to match your personal taste. This motor yacht can accommodate 6 – 10 adults in total comfort for cruising, docking or vacations. The engine room workmanship and layout are worth a special mention and the yacht is driven by dual Volvo Penta 900-hp diesel engines.

The main deck is light and has a very open plan feel with comfortable seating couches that keep you close to the water. The galley is open plan and centrally positioned for serving meals and refreshments, and can be closed off for privacy. Below deck it has 3 ensuite cabins, and the master suite boasts a full size bed with en-suite and has it’s own private access portside. The aft swim platform is on the transom and it has a fitted retractable couch so this space can also be enjoyed. Definitely worth viewing this motor yacht in person.

• Length: 71’7"
• Beam: 17’6"
• Dry Weight: 73,634 lbs
• Motor: 2 x 1200 or 1350 hp Volvo Penta D13

Viking Yachts

Where to buy Viking 82:

Viking 82 is utter luxury and excellence combined. Modern with clean space and awesome layout. It is also compact, rugged and versatile for fishing or water sport activities. The motor yacht command station has full weather protection and is outfitted with custom designed navigation and entertainment systems.

Below deck are 4 ensuite cabins with walk-in showers and generous windows, the master suite has a king size bed, and enhanced lighting. The open bridge layout is spacious and has a full size dinette and electric grill and the galley has stone counters.

There’s a beautiful sun pad and lounge area and it comes with a wet bar. World class walnut cabinets throughout. The huge transom fish box can double up as stowage to fit extra water gear. This motor yacht offers the owner control and access to absolutely everything the ocean has to offer.

• Length: 84’9”
• Beam: 20’6"
• Dry Weight: 158,850 lbs
• Motor: MAN / V12 15500CRM 1550 MHP

Sunreef Yachts Eco

Sunreef 100 Eco

Where to buy Sunreef 100 Eco:

This twin-hull rose-gold superyacht with its beautiful grey metallic hull is a special one to look at. Sunreef yachts’ green-powered catamarans are next generation in ethical and responsible boating.

Green propulsion is the way to go, fitted with wind turbines, eco-aware materials, and solar skin lighting system this vessel is setting stage for the future of motor yacht design. If you are passionate about the environment and conservation then this motor yacht brand is leading the way with enlightened future sustainability.

The 42,65 ft beam gives you incredible space aboard. It can be customised and you can select decor for the vast relaxation areas. It has a full-beam bow terrace with a sunken lounge, huge flybridge, spa pool, gym area and of course a bar. Layout plan includes a huge aft storage locker that fits 2 jet skis and has a fitted hydraulic platform. There is super comfortable accommodation for up to 10 guests.

The Sunreef Eco 100 motor yacht gives the discerning and progressive owner exceptional comfort and peace of mind. The perfect blend of luxury and sustainability make this brand stand out. Hybrid green yachts are the progressive next step.

• Length: 100’
• Beam: 42’65"
• Capacity: 10 - 14 people
• Motor : 2 x 1300 HP engines [2 x 180kW - 2 x 360kW]

Conrad Shipyard

Conrad C144S

Where to buy Conrad C144S:

The Conrad C144S is just above and beyond. Already took the top place at the 2019 World Superyacht Award ‘Viatoris’. This superyacht is just above and beyond. So far there are only 2 of these babies on the water so far. Whether or not this yacht is within your reach, it is worth taking a sneak preview at this timeless and prestigious straight hull design. Go big or go home.

4 VIP ensuite guest cabins, 4 crew cabins, beach club, 4 lounge zones, 2 beautiful bar areas, 2 dining spaces, full cinema – you can probably modify this space into a gym or remote office, the world is your absolute oyster here. Best you get cracking and sign off on your order today as this timeless superyacht needs at least 24 months pre-production time.

• Length: 145’
• Beam: 29’2"
• Dry Weight: 472 ton
• Capacity: 16 + people
• Motor: 2 x CAT C18 ACERT

Related Reviews

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The World of Motor Yachts: Luxury, Performance, and Freedom

Motor yachts offer a unique combination of power, comfort, and freedom on the water. Designed primarily for pleasure cruising or racing, these impressive vessels put the world at your fingertips.

A Spectrum of Sizes: Finding Your Perfect Motor Yacht

Motor yachts come in different sizes, catering to every desire. From compact and maneuverable models around 33 feet (10 meters) to sprawling luxury palaces exceeding 131 feet (40 meters), there’s a perfect fit for every dream.

Pricing Considerations:

• Smaller motor yachts (33ft – 50ft) typically range from $500,000 to $3 million.
• Mid-size yachts (50ft – 80ft) can fall between $3 million and $15 million.
• Superyachts (over 80ft) enter a whole new pricing category, reaching into the hundreds of millions and beyond, depending on size, customization, and features.

Power and Maneuverability: Taking Control on the Water

Motor yachts usually have two or more motors. This has several advantages:

• Better Maneuverability: Two engines allow captains to better deal with challenging weather conditions. Thanks to vessel control software systems, it also provides some advantages when docking.
• Fuel Efficiency and Range: With dual engines and customized fuel tanks, extended cruises at constant speeds with lower fuel consumption are possible. This is where the explorer yacht, designed to roam, even cross the Atlantic, thrives.
• Shallow Water Access: Unlike deep-keel sailboats, motor yachts have a shallower draft, allowing them to explore beautiful coves and hidden bays inaccessible to other vessels.

The Flybridge Advantage: Elevated Yachting Experience

Many motor yachts, particularly larger models, will also have a flybridge. This offers captains better visibility for navigation, docking, and it provides passengers with higher vistas. Flybridge boats, like the smaller Merry Fisher , have that additional social space, featuring seating areas, wet bars, and sundecks.

Beyond Ownership: Exploring the Charter Option

Chartering offers a fantastic alternative for those seeking a taste of the motor yacht lifestyle without the full commitment of ownership. Chartering allows owners to offset some of the cost of their boats.

In 2020, an estimated 15,000 yachts were exceeding 79 feet available for charter worldwide.

Charter yachts often involve annual maintenance costs of around 15% of the yacht’s value. For vessels valued over $3 million, that’s almost a half million a year!

Our boating editors recently checked out the Miami boat show to understand this decadent market. We found many owners who don’t even get to use their yachts as much as they’d like, so the chartering world makes sense for everyone.

Entering the Realm of Superyachts: Luxury Redefined

The “Commercial Yacht Code” categorizes motor yachts exceeding 79 feet (24 meters) as superyachts and those surpassing 131 feet (40 meters) as mega-yachts. These behemoths represent the pinnacle of luxury yachting, with meticulously crafted interiors, advanced technological marvels, and crew quarters to cater to the owner’s every need. Naturally, these vessels come with exceptionally high construction standards and price tags.

Buying a Motor Yacht

Once you have made a decision to purchase a motor yacht, the next step is to determine exactly what make of motor yacht will best fit your requirements. There are so many different motor yachts, give yourself time to find the right one and ask yourself this.

• Budget capacity?
• New or used?
• What type of user experience do you want out of the vessel?
• What hull size of motor yacht is best?

Once you have created a shortlist, you can then refine your search. Take time out to go and view in person. Book yourself an experience aboard and head over to your closest marina and speak to owners. Consider these points before purchasing a motor yacht.

• Pre-book buyer’s sea trials for your shortlist
• Select the perfect motor yacht
• Used – get a certified hull survey, safety comes first
• Get annual insurance quotes
• Calculate dockage – purchase or rent a slip or dock
• Calculate monthly upkeep and maintenance
• Calculate extra costs like navigational devices & fittings
• Draft your own checklist
• Draft & sign off sale & purchase contracts
• Draft & sign off a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA)
• Ensure satisfied 100%
• Execute payment and take transfer of ownership
• Register and insure the motor yacht

Frequently Asked Questions About Motor Yachts

These 5 questions give you some clarity on what to consider when purchasing a motor yacht.

• How many guests and crew (combined) are you comfortable with aboard? Privately registered motor yachts can carry no more than 12 passengers, so often this will define the length of the vessel.
• Then consider functionality and lifestyle. Decide upfront what you want out of the motor yacht, are you planning to use it for charter, private cruising, sport, remote office, family vacations or entertainment or all of the above?
• Do you plan to use it on inland water systems or oceans or both?
• Do you want to captain and skipper yourself or would you prefer a crew, so you have time to enjoy the experience?  Set a limit to your budget both in terms of purchase and then beyond that one has to consider the long term upkeep, storage, and monthly maintenance costs
• What is the best length for a Motor Yacht?

If you plan on becoming your own captain, the best hull size on average for a single-handed skipper would be between 32ft to 42ft.

The best motor yacht length is defined by both the objective and purpose of the vessel. Added to this one should consider both the budget and upkeep costs, including dockage fees, as these are most often calculated at a per foot rate. The next factor would be to select a good for the number of passengers you wish to have aboard (family, guests, crew), as the number of sleeping berths are limited on smaller hull sizes. As you increase your hull size, you need to consider that this will then add an extra headcount because you have to factor in additional space for crew.

They say the old golden unwritten nautical rule is that boat length is always defined by a person’s age. Whatever your age, double it, and that gives you a perfect hull length in feet (for example, if you are 40 years of age you should consider an 80ft hull length).

They can cost anywhere between $100,000- $10,000,000. The sky’s the absolute limit when it comes to what you can spend on a motor yacht. Used or new, the cost is often defined by the design, size and year of manufacture. Quality motor yachts are built to last and most often retain market related value if they are properly maintained and have an accident free history.

Motor yachts are generally between 33ft – 79 feet, super yachts are generally over 79 feet in hull length, and mega yachts are over 100 feet.

If you purchase a globally recognized brand, it makes selling the boat in the future much easier. The established global motor yacht brands offer a range of existing designs that can be customized to suit any individual requirement. These approved motor yacht designs are often updated with the latest technology and modifications over the years. A tip is that reputable international brands retain market value over the years so are considered a valuable investment.

There is never one best hull type for a motor yacht, there is rather a series or collection of yachts or vessels that are released and they often use the exact same hull design for different lengths in a series. There is a huge selection and variation of hull designs, and this is exactly what defines a yacht. Motor boat hulls are specifically designed to cut through water with the least possible resistance while remaining balanced in all types of weather and water conditions. Each year hull designs improve and often a new hull release is about using the latest carbon fiber molding techniques for structural strength, rather than a modification to the actual shape of the design.

Super yachts are power driven water vessels specially designed by yacht engineers and shipbuilders and are normally 71 – 99 feet in length. Super yachts that exceed 100ft in length are classified as mega yachts.

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Hatteras M75 Panacera

Sabre 58 Salon Express

What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you think of a yacht? Probably those huge luxury cruisers reserved for the high society folks, right? Well, that’s true, but those are a special group of ships referred to as luxury yachts.

The questions you need to be asking are – What is a yacht? At what point is a yacht regarded as a ship? And, what exactly makes a yacht a yacht? Here’s a little boating lesson for you.

A yacht is any fast cruising watercraft used for pleasure or sport. Yachts can be classified into cruisers, superyachts, and mega yachts. The difference between them all boils down to their respective sizes.

Luxury vessels that are less than 12 meters long fall in the class of cabin cruiser yachts – or simply, cruisers. Those that measure more than 24 meters are classified as superyachts. Anything that’s 50+ meters long is a mega yacht. Anything larger than a mega yacht is generally referred to as a ship and generally describes a working vessel as opposed to something recreational.

So, as you can see, you don’t necessarily have to be swimming in a ton of money to become a yacht owner. The only difference will be in the size of the craft you get. Clear enough?

Without further ado, here are the 15 best yachts, as well as a few useful tips on how to choose the best one.

Top on our list of best yachts is the Carver 52 Command Bridge. Its unique design, spacious salon, expansive foredeck seating area, and well-thought-out amenities make this one the best yachts bar-none.

It comes with a master head, a spacious stall shower, and a full-beam master stateroom that even has its own private entrance. It doesn’t get any better than that.

 Carver  →

● Designed for long-range cruising ● Ample living space ● Comes with loads of convenience amenities

● Not ideal for use in icy waters

The Hatteras M75 Panacera yacht is the perfect embodiment of superior craftsmanship and timeless elegance. One look at it, and you can tell that it was built with impeccable attention to detail.

Everything from the galley layout and the open-concept deckhouse salon to the 360-degree panoramic windows and state-of-the-art amenities adds a completely new dimension to luxury yachting.

 Hatteras  →

● Ample space ● Exquisite interiors and exteriors ● Fully-customizable

● High maintenance

Yachts don’t exactly come cheap. So, the term “budget” yacht might be a bit of a stretch when referring to the price. Nonetheless, if you’re shopping for a watercraft that delivers excellent value for money, the Sabre 58 Salon Express is a great option to consider.

It has an open yacht design that seamlessly merges the interior with the exterior and has large windows that flood the interior spaces with lots of natural light. The Sabre also has three en-suite cabins, abundant storage, and several other great features that make it stand out from other boats in its class.

 Sabre Yachts  →

● Great value for money ● Spacious interior ● Ample storage

● Not ideal for use in the high seas

Tiara Yachts 53 Coupe

The Tiara Yachts 53 Coupe is the perfect family watercraft. It is designed for indoor and outdoor living. The bridge deck space and salon offer breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of the ocean. It also has comfortable living quarters below deck that are guaranteed to give the entire family an exceptional cruising experience.

 Tiara  →

● Great for making memories ● Comfortable living quarters ● Offers panoramic views all round

● High maintenance costs

The 60 Cantius from Cruiser was built for long-distance passages. It has spacious living quarters both above and below deck, as well as lots of comfort and convenience amenities that allow you to spend extended periods out on the water.

You’ll particularly enjoy the retractable sunroof that allows you to bask in the sun while enjoying breathtaking panoramic ocean views as you cruise along.

 Cruisers Yachts  →

● Ideal for long-distance passages ● Beautiful, elegant design ● Spacious living areas above and below deck

● Pricier than other boats in its class

93 Motor Yacht

If you’re looking for a watercraft that can go the distance, it doesn’t get any better than the 93 Motor Yacht from Viking Yachts. First impressions: It is gorgeous.

Its beauty isn’t skin-deep either. The 93MY was built to navigate the rough, choppy waters of the high seas, making it the perfect vessel for anyone who wants to go on an ocean-crossing adventure of a lifetime.

 Viking Yachts  →

● Stunning exterior and interior design ● Built to navigate rough water conditions ● It is pretty massive

● Requires a small crew to operate it

Jeanneau NC 37

The Jeanneau NC 37 is an excellent beginner boat. Its fluid layout and ergonomic design make movement in this yacht a breeze. It comes with large panoramic windows with an open sunroof that bathe the living space in lots of natural light.

There’s an owner’s cabin, as well as a guest cabin that both offer ample standing headroom. Its well-proportioned interior alongside the multitude of comfort and convenience amenities it comes with makes it one of the best beginner yachts in the market today.

 Jeanneau  →

● Ample living space and storage ● Great value for money ● Open ergonomic layout

● Not ideal for ocean crossing

Regal 36 XO

If you’re looking for a yacht that combines both comfort and functionality, the Regal 36 XO delivers on both fronts. This beauty is powered by two outboard engines and offers multi-bow seating that also doubles up as casting decks.

It has a spacious cabin, open-air salon, seamless galley that integrates the aft seating area with the roomy saloon, and a windshield walk-through that provides easy access to the bow.

 Regal  →

● Versatile ● Spacious interiors and exteriors ● Fully-customizable

Back Cove 390

If you thought yachts were reserved for ocean-use only, that couldn’t be further from the truth. There are several models specially designed for lakes. The Back Cove 390 yacht is the perfect example.

Its smaller size makes it ideal for lake cruising. It has a fully-enclosed helm, as well as an owner and guest cabin below-deck, making it perfect for overnight stay.

 Back Cove Yachts  →

● Perfect size for lakes ● Ideal for entertaining ● Delivers optimal handling and maneuverability

● May not be ideal for a long extended stay

Formula 45 Yacht

The Formula 45 Yacht is the perfect liveaboard watercraft. It has all the comfort and convenience amenities you would expect to find in any standard land-based home. It is spacious with a well-thought-out practical layout that makes movement on the yacht easy. It has enough room to comfortably accommodate a small family of four.

 Formula  →

● Best yacht for the money ● Spacious interior ● Comes with lots of convenience amenities

Ocean Alexander 36L

If you’re thinking of venturing out into the rough seas, you’re going to need a yacht that can hold its own in the sloppiest of weather conditions. The Ocean Alexander 36L is built to do just that.

Beyond its stunning exterior and interiors, this yacht’s overall rugged construction is focused on giving passengers the smoothest ride possible regardless of the water conditions outside. Its deep V-hull design and its 324,500 lbs. displacement capacity are largely responsible for the exceptional stability it displays when cruising through the high seas.

 Ocean Alexander  →

● Exceptionally stable ● Packed with loads of comfort and convenience amenities ● Expansive interior and exterior

● Needs a crew to run it

Westport 112 Motor Yacht

As far as luxury yachts go, the Westport 112 Motor Yacht is in a class of its own. This 111 ft. 8 in. long watercraft is built to deliver extraordinary performance inside and out.

It has four en-suite staterooms that sleep eight individuals and can accommodate up to five crew members, including the captain. The interior oozes luxury, sophistication, and a timeless elegance that’s hard to come by these days.

 Westport Yachts  →

● Spacious indoor and outdoor living areas ● Exquisite interiors ● Suitable for cruising the high seas

● Expensive

Beneteau Oceanis 60

The Beneteau Oceanis 60 is by far the best sailing yacht we’ve come across. It is built on a hull that guarantees safety and unmatched performance at every turn.

This luxury sailing yacht has a unique deck plan that allows for single-handed maneuvering across the water. The glossy woodwork, cozy upholstery, and the spacious living quarters below-deck make it the perfect sailing yacht for your ocean getaway.

 Beneteau  →

● Exceptional fuel economy ● Spacious living areas ● Ideal for single-handed sailing

● May not be as fast as other non-sailboat yachts

Having a crew is great and all, but it’s also nice to have a yacht that you can operate on your own for that measure of added privacy when you need it. The Antares 9 is the perfect owner operator yacht.

It is modern, stylish, and compact, allowing you to run it on your own and discreetly slip away from the hustle and bustle of day-to-day life anytime you need to.

● Elegant design ● Can be operated solo ● Comfortable and safe navigation

● Not ideal for the rough, choppy waters of the high seas

Prestige 690

Let’s get to what yachts are best known for – hosting memorable parties. The Prestige 690 has everything you need to keep the party going all day and all night.

Its open design layout and its expansive deck make it the perfect yacht for entertaining. The elegant, timeless design of its exterior, alongside the breathtaking finishing, are just a few of the 690’s attributes that add to its appeal.

 Prestige  →

● Massive open deck ● Comes with lots of comfort and convenience features ● Sleeps up to 10 people

How to Choose the Best Yachts – Buyer’s Guide

A yacht is a pretty big purchase. So, you need to know what to look for when choosing the right one for your needs. Here are a couple of pointers that might come in handy.

Type of Yacht

The type of yacht you buy depends in large part on your intended use for it. Most yachts tend to fall into one of three categories – For water sports like wakeboarding , fishing motor yachts, or the overnight cruising variety. Once you know what kind of recreational activities you plan on engaging in, that should help narrow down your choices.

Next, you need to consider what size of yacht you should get. Do you have a young family that you intend to expand in the coming years? Do you plan to use the vessel for day cruising, or do you intend to spend a couple of nights on board from time to time?

Will the yacht be just for you and your significant other, or do you plan to frequently entertain several guests on board? This will advise whether you should buy a cabin cruiser yacht, a superyacht, or a mega yacht.

In a perfect world, you would have all the money you need to buy any kind of watercraft you want. Sadly, that’s not the reality we live in. Keep in mind that yachts don’t exactly come cheap. So, even if you’re planning to purchase a small yacht, you’ll still need to spend quite a bit of cash to get it.

The best thing to do would be to set a budget and compare the different models on offer from different manufacturers . Aside from the boat’s purchase price, you also need to think about the costs associated with owning a yacht. These include insurance, repairs, maintenance, cleaning, and the vessel’s general servicing.

Figure out what kind of comfort and convenience features are a must-have for you. How many cabins should it have? Do you need it to have a summer grill up top? Or will the one in the mini kitchen below-deck suffice? Ensure that the yacht you get has all the amenities you need.

Last but not least, before you sign any purchase contract, ensure that you schedule a sea trial with the dealer. That way, you get a true feel for the boat before you buy it.

Look Before You Leap

If you’re in the market for a shiny new yacht, any of the 15 vessels we’ve detailed in this guide will make an excellent choice. Do your homework beforehand, and make sure your desired craft has all the features and amenities you seek.

Use the tips we’ve outlined in this guide to help you choose the best yachts from all the different options that are hot on the market right now. Happy yachting!

In the meantime, if you’re looking for the best aluminum fishing boat , we’ve got you covered. Check out our review for our top picks.

About Chris

Outdoors, I’m in my element, especially in the water. I know the importance of being geared up for anything. I do the deep digital dive, researching gear, boats and knowhow and love keeping my readership at the helm of their passions.

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The 10 Best Explorer Yachts for High-Seas Adventures

A 350-foot gigayacht or 60-foot cruiser size isn't what defines an explorer yacht. the devil's in the details when it comes to authenticity., julia zaltzman, julia zaltzman's most recent stories.

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Unlike fashion trends that seem to move as fast as a Redbull F1 car, the yachting industry takes its time adopting new ideas. There seems to be one exception. Explorer vessels, born out of the owners’ desires to go farther and stay longer, without sacrificing creature comforts, is developing with some urgency.

Several dozen builders and designers are now focusing on explorers, but they are also consulting with adventure travel firms that have a long history of using expedition yachts in remote parts of the globe. ICON Yachts, for example, collaborated with Cookson Adventures and the International Seakeepers Society on its Project Mission in both the overarching design and the details found across the yacht. Adventure outfitter EYOS employs its expertise routinely with Damen’s explorer vessels, most recently with the 190-foot Pink Shadow.   EYOS has a list of 50 features that separate authentic explorers from faux versions that might look the part but lack the necessary infrastructure and design elements.

Long-range cruising, system redundancy for autonomy at sea, and storage to carry specialist equipment like submersibles are some of the requirements that define expedition boats. There’s also deck configuration for the easy launch of tenders and toys, along with strong, ice-class hulls and climate-controlled areas comfort in extreme polar and tropic regions.

We culled through the latest fleet of explorers with multiple lengths and designs, selecting a single feature that we think makes it best in class. Here are 10 of our favorites.

Best Pilothouse: Doggersbank 77 Offshore

More than 700 Doggersbank motoryachts have been built since the 1960s, with the latest model scheduled for delivery in 2025. The robust, offshore vessels are designed by Dutch studio Vripack for long ocean passages, assisted by a high, flared bow. “It prevents green water from hitting the wheelhouse windows in rough seas, and together with the Portuguese bridge, ensures the captain’s view is not obstructed,” Joost Mertens, Doggersbank fleet manager, told Robb Report . “The yacht’s steel hull ensures the yacht sits better in the water making it less vulnerable to wind and high waves.”

Best Deck Configuration: Columbus Crossover 42

The Columbus Crossover 42 is defined by both straight and angled surfaces,  tapered stern sections and a concentration of volume in the bow that is becoming on many explorers. What is atypical is the yacht’s compact but flexible dimensions that accommodate a large cockpit tender and a 108-square-foot swimming pool with relaxation areas. Sold to an U.S. customer, it’s scheduled for delivery in 2025.

Best Multipurpose Stern: Bering B165

Turkish boatbuilder Bering Yachts revealed details of its new 162-foot flagship explorer yacht, the B165 , at the Dubai International Boat Show in March. The yacht can carry 18,400 gallons of fuel, which the builder says will give it a 4,000 nautical mile range when cruising at 12 knots. It also has a 2,640-gallon holding tank. What singles the B165 out among other explorers, however, is its multi-purpose stern area for both function and form. The elongated aft deck has a swimming pool surrounded by sunbeds. When the bulwarks are folded down, the space becomes an even larger overwater terrace. When the pool is not in use, it can be used as a covered storage area for water toys and expedition equipment. The yacht’s two tenders are also stored on the aft, making it a flexible space for both equipment and guests.

Best Family-Friendly Concept: Project Mimer

This 197-foot expedition concept by Tillberg Design of Sweden caters to family travel with a helicopter pad as well as multiple tenders and toys. It’s pitched by the studio as an introduction to true explorer yachting. It has a functional crew layout for efficient operations and an upper deck owner’s suite with a forward terrace and spa pool. With a hull that will be built to the Polar Code Category, the concept also has an optional helipad aft and long list of toys, from an electric luxury tender and two expedition RIBS to quad bikes, a submersible, Jet Skis, and, of course, an amphibious vehicle. The five-decked yacht sleeps 12 guests with crew quarters for 17 and an additional staff member, such as a nanny.

Best Ice Explorer: Damen SeaXplorer 105

Damen’s 345-foot SeaXplorer 105 is the largest model in the SeaXplorer range, with exterior design by Azure Yacht Design. The platform was developed under the guidance of expedition specialists EYOS Expeditions, who considered over 150 design criteria, from the hull form and bridge layout to the tender davits and Zodiac boarding arrangements. But it is EYOS’s expertise in the polar regions—it facilitated the first heli-ski charter in Antarctica and the first 3,200-foot sub dive to the Antarctic midnight zone—that gives the vessel its point of difference. The SeaXplorer has an ice-strengthened hull and a specially shaped icebreaking stern to maneuver through rough terrain.

Best Interior: Project Fox

On top of having a cool name, Project Fox has a bright, contemporary interior, courtesy of London’s Q Design, that is becoming more common on expedition yachts. The full-beam owner’s stateroom is also one of the yacht’s standout features, with its marble en suite and hardwood floors. The salon is also luxe, with white walls that brighten up travel even in areas that are sunlight deprived. Project Fox also has four other staterooms.

Best Autonomy: Project Master

ICON Yachts’s Project Master was a transoceanic offshore support vessel before the Dutch shipyard began a refit to turn it into an explorer yacht (see before and after inset). It’s equipped with diesel-electric hybrid propulsion, a wide beam for multiple tender spaces, a 7,200-nautical mile range, and flexible cabin arrangements for expedition crew. Other features include a science lab and a certified heli-deck. “The yacht’s helicopter and sub capability mean it can offer assistance in areas with challenging access and little infrastructure,” Micca Ferrero, owner of ICON Yachts, told Robb Report . “The design is for the demands of self-sufficient voyages.”

Best Use of Volume: Arcadia Yachts A96

The A96 mixes the lines, volume, and open-plan layout of Arcadia’s Sherpa series with the speed, joystick maneuverability, and quality of the yard’s A range. It’s the first Arcadia to have an Igor Lobanov-designed interior, as well as a high bow and high deckheads for traversing rough water. But its big differentiator is the 214 gross tonnes of volume and 24-foot beam that generate big volumes—4,300 square feet of usable space, which is 30 percent more than on other similar-sized yachts. Low bulwarks and lateral walkways emphasize the sense of openness.

Best Bow: Project Shackleton

This 351-foot build from Lürssen has an inverted bow that looks like an eagle’s beak. The shape is designed to slice through waves with much lower vibration through the hull, while also reducing rock and roll in rough seas. Unlike the quasi-research vessel exteriors of many explorers, this vessel is representative of the changing look of many in this growing segment. 

Best Multi-Mode Hull: Azimut Magellano 60

The Magellano 60 isn’t technically an explorer yacht. Think of it as a cruiser  designed for some long-distance travel. But it does have one very interesting feature, what its builder Azimut calls a “dual-mode” hull. The semi-planing shape is designed to optimize fuel consumption (and therefore lower emissions) by about 20 percent (compared to similar-sized vessels) at low and medium speeds. The yacht’s bow is also designed to cut through waves for better seakeeping at a range of speeds. The boat cruises very efficiently at 18 knots but will hit a top end of 26, thus delivering the performance of a planing hull with the benefits of a displacement hull.

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Yachting World

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Best luxury yacht: 7 ultimate luxury cruisers you can buy

• Toby Hodges
• March 14, 2024

Toby Hodges takes a look at all the nominees and the winner of the best luxury yacht category in the European Yacht of the Year Awards

The definition of the best luxury yacht will differ according to personal opinion and from boat to boat. This year’s nominees in the luxury yacht category of the European Yacht of the Year Awards proved that perfectly.

The European Yacht of the Year awards are selected by a broad panel of expert judges from across the globe. These are people who spend their professional lives sailing and comparing yachts, so you can be certain that the yachts which stand out in this field are truly the best of the best on the market.

The best luxury yachts

Best luxury yacht winner 2024 – arcona 50.

When you enter the fiercely competitive 50ft luxury performance yacht market you better get it right. And the jury felt Arcona managed that. This watershed design for the traditional Swedish brand, by X-Yachts co-founder and former designer Niels Jeppesen, is a big, contemporary new Arcona, one that sees it move away from its cruiser-racer heritage and classic interiors.

The on trend styling inside and out is backed up by a premium level of build and finish quality and sailing performance – particularly if you have the performance sails, traveller and deep (2.95m) keel options the test boat carried, although the latter does limit your berthing and anchoring options.

While I doubt it’ll be raced or will suit typical bluewater use, it offers a purity of performance push-button sailing: a handsome prospect upwind in a light breeze, it transforms into a powerful reaching machine with stacks of control.

As chairman of our jury, Jochen Rieker, puts it: “The boat certainly did not win for her somewhat borrowed looks. She wins by checking all the boxes in all other respects. Slipping along gracefully in the lightest of airs, holding her stride and her balance in more demanding conditions, offering warmth, light and this reassuring feeling of utter quality down below – there simply isn’t anything to fault.”

Contest 50CS

The Contest 50CS, for example, is an archetype luxury cruising yacht, one built to the highest standards and that could take you to most waters in impeccable comfort. This model is, uniquely, available in two versions: this more conventional 50CS with aft master cabin, or the forward owner’s suite version on the aft cockpit Contest 49CS . We ran a full test on the latter after spending two days aboard in the North Sea, where that noticeably high freeboard, which may not aid boarding nor windage, helped keep us dry on deck in a steady Force 6 gusting 7.

As the 50CS proved, this Judel/Vrolijk design keeps slipping along in the light stuff too, providing enjoyable sailing in 6 knots breeze under a code sail. The centre cockpit offers a deep protected guest area, but also links well to the spacious aft deck.

And the Wetzels-Brown-designed interiors of Contests today are stunning and hard to match. The engineering, access to usable stowage, details and finish on the 50CS is first class and to get this level of quality at this size is special.

Both Contest and X-Yachts are early adopters of hybrid power, offering their bluewater cruisers with optional electric drives. For the XC 47 this was designed-in from the start to offer Oceanvolt’s award-winning new 25kW regenerative drive.

The XC 47 is another wonderfully engineered and thought out yacht for distance cruising, in particular for those who also enjoy hands-on helming pleasure. That should come as no surprise to any X aficionados, but what really struck me most about this yacht was the stowage, and the forethought needed to create that, together with how practical it has been made.

That may sound slightly anticlimactic but ask any long-term cruiser and stowage is always a priority. On deck, this constitutes a huge lazarette and sail locker, plus clever systems for launching a dinghy via davits and a liferaft canister, while below decks every square inch of space has been used effectively, with lockers hinged with gas struts.

It’s clear the Danish yard went to considerable time and effort, even building a full mock up of the interior that could be canted 20° each way.

If the deck saloon style looks didn’t sell this model to all – this is the first full non-Jeppesen designed X – the jury were converted once they’d taken the helm. ‘Quirky’ became ‘muscular and bold’. The ease with which it can be sailed from the cockpit was also appreciated.

While I understand many offshore cruisers like a protected centre cockpit and more sun protection, the attention to detail, stowage and practicalities, combined with the direct steering, motion and enjoyable sailing this X offers make it a standout new offering.

Jeanneau Yachts 55

Meanwhile the Jeanneau Yachts 55 stands out for different, unique reasons in this category, offering a completely new concept in comfort on deck while at anchor and a novel accommodation layout. Its focus is on outdoor living space.

What helps place this in a luxury bracket is not simply the price or the creative input of superyacht specialist design duo Philppe Briand and Andrew Winch, rather that its layout creates a palatial amount of private space for the owner’s suite. Guest cabins have their own direct access from the extensive cockpit via gullwing doors.

It certainly makes sense for solo owners or couples using it as a warm water apartment. How many people this will suit is another question, as it segregates any guests, crew or children from the galley and saloon.

I used the term monocat when I first viewed it, as the 55 really does attempt to mix the two worlds, particularly in terms of providing owner privacy and lounging space. Choose the rigid hard top and windshield and there’s a vast amount of covered area including a dinette and chart table – plus a bimini can shade all that extensive aft deck too.

The penalty comes in additional weight and wetted surface, and is felt in the handling and performance, the latter particularly in lighter breeze with the optional in-mast furling, self tacking headsail and shallow draught package we had. However, it’s set up to be easily managed from the mid cockpit with good visibility from the twin helms and easy circulation thanks to the ramped side decks. Full report in YW February 2024.

Best luxury yacht 2023

Best luxury yacht winner – oyster 495.

It is hard to imagine that the decor of a yacht can change its look and feel quite this much, yet the layout of this second 495, Eddie Jordan’s dramatic looking Tuga , is in fact identical to the first boat that I spent several days aboard last summer.

At its heart is a wonderfully (Humphreys) designed and engineered luxury bluewater cruiser conceived from the ground up, built in a new dedicated facility to a repeatable quality very few yards are capable of.

The 495 offers consistent passage making speeds in real voluminous comfort – whether enjoyed from the deep cockpit or the best-in-class aft cabin. Deck stowage and mechanical space is also superb.

Then factor in the family appeal of Oyster’s after sales and world rally programme and you start to appreciate the premium world this sub 50-footer gives access to.

The first yacht fully conceived under CEO Richard Hadida’s reign, this is also the smallest completely new Oyster 495 since 2005 – and it’s a triumph. It was our September 2022 cover star in which we featured the full review from our Oyster 495 three day test .

Beneteau Oceanis Yacht 60

The Oceanis Yacht 60 is a very different beast indeed to the 62 it replaces as flagship for the Beneteau range. The yard has learned plenty from the success of the First 53/OY 54 and wanted to create a 60 in this style and with the same deck layout (albeit larger and wider) and ease of circulation.

The construction experience of the smaller model clearly helped too, as this is a whopping five tonnes lighter than the bulky OY62 and with a deeper (2.6m) keel. The telling result is on the water. It feels sporty to helm and we averaged a knot slower than the single figure 6-8 knot windspeeds upwind and matched them reaching with Code 0 and a slight swell.

The vast cockpit works well, sheltered below the semi rigid bimini, it has plentiful lounging space with sailing systems led aft to the twin helms. The interior sees a 3+3 layout, where Beneteau wanted to get rid of the corridor effect of the OY62. The galley is forward to help open out space, while the forward suite with offset berth and headboard aft works well to give space with privacy.

This is an attractive, voluminous yacht that leaves a good overall impression whether under sail, on or below decks.

Ice 62 Targa

It all looks pretty funky below decks on the Ice 62 Targa too, especially if you’re watching the masthead fore and aft cameras (plus bow and prop cam) on central displays mounted in the saloon while you slip out of the dock! The Ice is a seriously impressive, contemporary yacht, one that in looks, performance and execution, won over many of the judges.

The first to launch is a highly customised project for a passionate sailing owner who covers long distances solo – he’d already sailed it 3,000 miles around the Med that autumn. It’s impressively stiff, sails handsomely and, thanks to a telescopic keel, points well. We matched single figure windspeeds, and clocked up to the high 9s in 12 knots wind.

Umberto Felci’s team spent 4,000 hours on the design, providing lots of space and light to the interior and a chillout zone in the semi raised saloon. This was easily the coolest looking yacht, with its aggressive reverse bow, chamfered gunwales and carbon T-top bimini, and all engineered and built to a high standard.

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Five Top Yachts For 2024

• By Kim Kavin
• April 9, 2024

During the Miami International Boat Show last February, a bevy of builders introduced a host of new models for yachting enthusiasts of all kinds. Attendees had the opportunity to see enhanced helm stations, eco-friendly propulsion options, plush creature comforts, and more. Here, we offer a glimpse at some of the yachts that were seen and talked about, whether they’re already under construction or just now coming off the drawing boards for early orders.

CLB80: Made for Different Cruising Styles

CL Yachts is adding a fourth model to its B Series: the CLB80, which joins the CLB65, CLB72 and CLB88 flagship. Aboard the CLB80, owners can choose a forward or aft galley. With the latter, there’s a stool-height dining table that can tuck away against the galley counter, becoming a high bar or a side table for different styles of entertaining. Owners also can choose a single or double helm station, depending on how they prefer to cruise. All four guest staterooms are belowdecks, including an amidships master that spans the 22-foot-6-inch beam. The VIP stateroom is forward with a skylight for additional natural light. There are also two crew cabins with separate access, located between the engine room and beach club.

Saxdor 400 GTO: A New Flagship

Saxdor Yachts is a Finnish yard that was established in 2019. It offers three models: the 270 GTO, the 320 GTO and the recently launched 400 GTO. Note the size of the foldout balcony in the image below; there’s another one on the starboard side of the vessel, substantially increasing the outdoor space when the boat is at anchor. Guests can have snacks or lunch in that shaded section or set out a spread forward on the table beneath open skies. Belowdecks are two staterooms: one forward and one amidships. For cruising families, the shipyard offers the option of adding a kids cabin. Standard power is a pair of 300 hp Mercury Marine V-8s, though the boat is designed for a maximum of 800 hp, if owners want other outboards at the transom.

Vicem TM 37: Sport Fishing in High Style

The TM in the model name of Vicem’s TM 37 stands for “Tuna Masters.” This is a line of center-console boats that the Turkish builder launched earlier this year, with more models expected to come at different lengths overall. Hull No. 1 of the TM 37 is powered by triple 350 hp Mercury Marine outboards that reportedly give eager-to-get-there anglers a top hop of nearly 48 knots. The standard power package is a pair of the 350s, which Vicem says allows for a top speed of about 40 knots. Range is estimated at 350 nautical miles, with a Seakeeper gyrostabilizer as part of the standard-equipment package for more-comfortable time spent on board. Belowdecks are twin berths and a wet head for overnights. Electronics at the helm are by Raymarine.

Cruisers Yachts 55 Fly: Coming this Spring

The 55 Fly is the first model in the new Flybridge series from Cruisers Yachts, which also offers Cantius and GLS series. Expect the official launch of the 55 Fly this spring, with the second model in the Flybridge series on tap for next year. Luiz De Basto collaborated with the Cruisers team on interiors, using the design theme “back to nature in a tech world.” Josh Delforge, vice president of operations and engineering at Cruisers, says that one goal with the 55 Fly was best-in-class water interaction—hence the foldout side platform and sizable swim platform shown in the image below. Power will be twin 725 hp Volvo Penta IPS950s, allowing extra volume to devote to the accommodations for six guests.

Princess Y95: High Style Meets 23-Knot Speed

The Y95 is the new flagship of Princess Yachts’ four-model Y Class of open-flybridge designs in larger sizes. There are five en suite staterooms for a total of 10 guests, with the master spanning the full beam on the main deck. The flybridge is set up for driving and entertaining in comfort. There are twin adjustable helm seats, along with a forward-facing L-shaped seating area for guests. The dining table up top seats 10 people (additional dining space is on the main deck). A bar on the flybridge includes a sink, an electric barbecue, a hob and a drawer refrigerator. Power is a pair of 2,000 hp MAN V-12s that, according to Princess, allow for a top speed of 23 knots. Crew quarters are abaft the engine room, separate from the guest spaces.

• More: CL Yachts , Cruisers Yachts , Currents , February 2024 , Princess , Saxdor Yachts , Vicem , Yachts
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The 19 best churches in Veliky Novgorod

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Attractions

1 Vitoslavlitsy Museum

2 Saint Sophia Cathedral in Novgorod

All road trips from Veliky Novgorod

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Explore nearby places

• Veliky Novgorod
• Staroye Rakomo
• Vyazhishchi
• Myasnoy Bor
• Tesovo-Netylskiy
• Staraya Russa
• Radofinnikovo

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Veliky Novgorod throughout the year

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Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Veliky Novgorod?

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Best churches in nearby cities

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Best restaurants in nearby cities

• Where to eat: the best restaurants in St. Petersburg
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• Places - European, Western and Northern Russia

NOVGOROD (SOUTH OF ST. PETERSBURG): THE CRADLE OF RUSSIA AND THE HOME OF ITS OLDEST CHURCHES AND SETTLEMENTS

Western european russia.

Western European Russia refers the area between Moscow and St. Petersburg that borders Ukraine, Belarus, Latvia, Estonia and the Baltic Sea in the east. The region is comprised of rolling hills, farms and steppe. It was site of fierce fighting in World War II and other wars.

Western European Russia is the heartland of Russia. Before the creation of the Russian Empire, Russian territory included a number of independent and semi-independent princedom and republics such as Novgorod, Pskov and Tver. Other groups were created such as the Cossacks and Old Believers mainly on the periphery of the empire.

Early Scandinavians in Russia were known as Rus to the Slavs (Rhos to the Byzantines). Rus is an Arabic word and the source of the word Russia. It may have been used to describe the dominant Kievan Viking clan and later became affixed to the Eastern Slavs in the north, while those in the south became known as Ukrainians and Belarussians. The Rus were also called Varangians and Varyagi. The Baltic was known as the Varangian Sea and their trade routes were called the Varangian Way.The Rus mingled with the local people and helped set up a series of small principalities centered around single families and clans. They became concentrated in places like Novgorod, Smolensk and Kiev. Viking princes became rulers in Novgorod and Kiev in 862 and 882.

Western European Russia was the first stage of the medieval trade routes between Scandinavia and the Middle East. Byzantium based in Constantinople (present-day Istanbul) was the richest empire in the Viking era and the easiest way for the Vikings to reach it was via the rivers of Russia. There were two main trade routes used by the Rus that began in the Baltic Sea. One went down the Dnieper River to the Black Sea and Constantinople. The other followed the Volga to the Caspian Sea.

The Vikings traded furs, amber, honey, beeswax, weapons and slaves from the north for silks and silver. Most of the goods that made their way between Europe, Russia and the Middle East followed Viking trade routes. Of the 120,000 coins found in Gotland Sweden, 50,000 were of Arabic origin (the rest were mostly English or German). The Rus traveled in convoys and flotillas, often with more than more than hundred boats, and built fortified trading posts. They traveled on the inland waterways in shallow-draft boats carved by local residents from tree trunks. They were about 20 feet long and 7 to 10 feet wide.

Novgorod Oblast

Novgorod Oblast is one of Russia's oldest regions and the site of early Viking trading posts located where the Viking traders hauled their boats overland from the Baltic lakes to the Dnieper River. Founded by the Rurik dynasty in the A.D. 860s, it lies at the crossroads of international trade routes and was inhabited by Finno-Ugrians, Slavs and Varangians (Scandinavian merchants and warriors). Novgorod should not be confused with Nizhny Novgorod, which lies 420 kilometers east of Moscow.

Novgorod Oblast (region) covers 55,300 square kilometers (21,400 square miles), is home to about 600,00 people and has a population density of only 11 people per square kilometer. You’d be hard pressed to come up with an area that is richer in history than Novgorod. The region full of monuments, museums, churches, estates and monasteries. Places over a thousand years old can be seen almost in its original form. And some of the sights of the Novgorod region — Yuryev Monastery, the Novgorod Kremlin and Yaroslavovo Courtyard — have been recognized as national monuments or UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The great Russian composer Sergei Rachmaninov was born in the Novgorod region.

Getting There: The distance between Moscow to Veliky Novgorod, the main city in Novgorod Oblast, by highway is about 550 kilometers. The trip by car takes about seven hours. From St. Petersburg, it is only 150 kilometers to Novgorod, a road trip of two to three hours depending on the traffic. By Train: The train ride from Moscow take eight and a half hours. A ticket in a compartment costs about 300 rubles. The fast train between Moscow and St. Petersburg skirts Novgorod. That trip takes about three hours. The cost of a one-way ticket is about 650 rubles. Trains run daily. By bus: Veliky Novgorod-Valdai: tickets from 407 rubles. Veliky Novgorod-Staraya Russa: 275 rubles. Veliky Novgorod-Borovichi: from 490 rubles. Route schedule and tickets: https://avokzal53.ru/ .

E105 is part of the International E-road network and one of the main roads in Europe. Begins in Kirkenes, Norway and follows the M18, M10 and M2 in Russia and the M18 in the Ukraine, ending in Yalta, Ukraine. Some cities on its route include Kirkenes, Murmansk, Kandalaksha, Saint Petersburg, Novgorod, Tver, Moscow, Kharikiv, Simferopol and Yalta. The road may be closed due to heavy snows or rains. Long delays may occur at the border crossing. On Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, the road is closed to vehicles with a foreign registration

Early History of Novgorod

Novgorod is one of Russia's oldest city and the site of early Viking trading post located where the Viking traders hauled their boats overland from the Baltic lakes to the Dnieper River. Founded by the Rurik dynasty in the A.D. 860s, it lay at the crossroads of international trade routes and was inhabited by Finno-Ugrians, Slavs and Varangians (Scandinavian merchants and warriors).

By the ninth century, Scandinavian and Rus warriors and merchants, had penetrated the East Slavic regions. According to the Primary Chronicle,the earliest chronicle of Kievan Rus', a Varangian named Rurik first established himself in Novgorod, just south of modern-day St. Petersburg, in about 860 before moving south and extending his authority to Kiev. The chronicle cites Rurik as the progenitor of a dynasty that ruled in Eastern Europe until 1598. Another Varangian, Oleg, moved south from Novgorod to expel the Khazars from Kiev and founded Kievan Rus' about A.D. 880. During the next thirty-five years, Oleg subdued the various East Slavic tribes. [Source: Library of Congress, July 1996]

Novgorod was comprised of wooden building placed around streets consisting of pine logs placed over the marshy ground. The pine log streets were replaced every 20 to 30 years. In some places archeologist have unearthed 30 layers of logs. Describing 10th century Novgorod, the Arab geographer Ibn Rustah wrote: "As for the Rus, they live on an island...that takes three days to walk around and is covered with thick undergrowth and forests; it is most unhealthy...They harry the Slavs, using ships to reach them; they carry them off as slaves and...sell them. They have no field but simply live on what they get from the Slavs' lands...When a son is born, the father will go up to the newborn baby, sword in hand; throwing it down, he says, 'I shall not leave you with any property: You have only what you can provide with this weapon.'"

Later Novgorod was supplanted by Kiev but the Republic of Novgorod prospered as part of Kievan Rus' because it controlled trade routes from the Volga River to the Baltic Sea. The destruction of Novgorod in World War II gave archeologist a unique opportunity to excavate the city. Birch-bark documents uncovered in Novgorod from the 11th and 12th century included lists of saints and requests for payments and mentioned fishing, weaving, embroidery and production of various kinds of cloth. One read: "Greeting from Nastasia to my lord, to my brother. My Boris is not alive anymore." Another read: "From Mikita to Ulianica. Marry me. I want you and you want me. Send Ignat as a witness.”

Novgorod City

Novgorod (150 kilometers south-southeast of St. Petersburg) is an ancient city in the Slavic heartland. Regarded as a Russian version of Williamsburg and officially known as Veliky Novgorod,it draws large numbers of tourists, most of them Russians, to its reconstructed kremlin, old stone churches and open-air museum of historic wooden buildings. The modern city of Novgorod is home to about 230,000 people. It had a progressive governor after the collapse of the Soviet Union that helped attract nearly US$1 billion in foreign investment, for a variety of projects, including a Cadbury chocolate factory. Novgorod should not be confused with Nizhny Novgorod, which lies 420 kilometers east of Moscow. Official portal of Krasnaya Izba Tourism Development Center / visitnovgorod.ru

Most of the sights are in the historic center of Novgorod on the Volkhov River. The kremlin is on one side of the river and the old market district on the other. As is true in other places many Soviet-era street and landmark names were changed after 1991 but people continue to use the old names. Some streets even have two signs: one with the old name and one with the new name. Novgorod is a pleasant city to stroll around in. B oat trips can be done on the Volkhov River, Lake Ilmen and the marshes surrounding the town. A few boats that gather around the kremlin landing have scheduled one-hour trips, Other take groups of 10 or more for a set fee.

Novgorod has a myriad of monuments, museums, churches and historical buildings. Sometimes it is hard to determine where the city of Veliky Novgorod leaves off and the museum begins. About 50 of the most valuable monuments of ancient Russian architecture from the 11th–17th centuries have become a part of the city's contemporary living structure. When you walk around the city you can touch the rough walls of churches and see medieval frescoes mixed in with shops and restaurants. Even Detention Center No. 1 is housed in an architectural monument of the 19th century. In the center of the city archaeologists discovered wooden pavement from the 14th century which extended almost a kilometer to the river.

Novgorod is Russia's oldest city and the cradle of Russian civilization. Founded by the Rurik dynasty in the A.D. 860s, it was the first permanent settlement if the Varangian Vikings who established the early Russian sate. It's name, ironically, means "new town," most likely because it replaced a nearby town. According to legend, Prince Rurik, the founder of the Russian state, was born here in 862.

Novgorod began as an early Viking trading post and developed into important Slavic trading Center. After Christianity was introduced in the late 10th century, Novgorod filled with churches built in a distinctive style and a famous school of icon making was founded. The city flourished during the 12th and 13th century, when it was called "Lord Novgorod the Great," and remained relatively unscathed during the Mongol invasion because the Mongol horses got bogged down in swamps outside the town. The city did pay tribute to the Golden Horde.

According to UNESCO: “Situated on the ancient trade route between Central Asia and northern Europe, Novgorod was Russia's first capital in the 9th century. Surrounded by churches and monasteries, it was a center for Orthodox spirituality as well as Russian architecture. Its medieval monuments and the 14th-century frescoes of Theophanes the Greek (Andrei Rublev's teacher) illustrate the development of its remarkable architecture and cultural creativity.

For centuries Novgorod existed as an independent quasi-democratic state whose princes were picked by a citizen's assembly. It suffered under early the tsars who punished the city for displaying independence. Ivan the Terrible raised the entire city and massacred 60,000 people in a brutal pogrom. When St. Petersburg was founded, Novgorod declined in importance as a trading center.

Destruction of Novgorod in World War II

Novgorod did not emerge from World War II unscathed. The Nazis held the city for two and half years and left it almost completely destroyed. Almost all the remaining wooden churches and 12th to 14th century frescoes and icons, plus around 4,500 of 5,000 first rate works of art, were lost. Among the more than 3,000 precious monuments destroyed by the Nazis, the most tragic worst lose was the destruction of the 12th century frescoes in the Old Church of the Savior in Novgorod.

The Red Army liberated the city on January 19, 1944. Out of 2,536 stone buildings, fewer than forty remained standing. After the war, thanks to plans laid down by Alexey Shchusev, the central part was gradually restored.

Of the 70 or stone churches built between 11th and 16th centuries, about 40 survived the bombardment and were restored. Among those that survived are the Cathedral of Sant Sophia (1045-1050) and the Church of the Transfiguration on Nereditsa Hill (1198). Some of the great frescoes inside survived. Of the 47 that remained in the 1980s, one was active and the remainder were state monuments or museums. None of them were heated in the winter.

Historic Monuments of Novgorod: UNESCO World Heritage Site

The Historic Monuments of Novgorod and Surroundings was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992. According to UNESCO: “ These historic monuments “have a direct relation to the process of establishment of the Old Russian state in 9th-10th centuries. The urban aristocracy that governed the city-republic through a People's Assembly (Vece) invited a prince from the Swedish (Varangian) dynasty of the Rurikids to reign over the Russian lands throughout 700 years.

“Due to the care of its Orthodox archbishops, Novgorod was one of the oldest and most important centers of Russian art and, more generally, of Russian culture. The most ancient Russian Old Church Slavonic manuscripts (11th century) were written at Novgorod, including an autonomous historiography (as early as the 12th century) and, in particular, the first complete translation into Slavonic of the Old and New Testaments (late 15th century). Novgorod was a birthplace of the national style of stone architecture, and one of the oldest national schools of painting.

“The majority of historical monuments are associated with Novgorod Republic (12th-15th centuries) which itself was a unique phenomenon of Medieval Russia. It was only after the conquest of the two republics (1478, in the case of Novgorod) by the Muscovite rulers that the present Russian capital acquired cultural supremacy.

“Novgorod’s historic monuments are situated not only in the city center but also in some outlying areas. In Novgorod itself, there is the district of Saint Sophia, including the Kremlin with its 15th-century fortifications, reinforced in the 17th century; the church of St. Sophia from the mid-11th century; and other monuments from the 12th to 19th centuries. There are monuments in the commercial district, including many of the oldest churches in the town, such as the Church of the Transfiguration, decorated with frescoes at the end of the 14th century by Theophanes the Greek, who was the teacher of Andrei Rublev. There are also four religious monuments from the 12th and 13th centuries outside the old town, including the famous Saviour Church on Nereditsa.

“The outstanding archaeological and cultural layers of Novgorod of 10th-17th centuries occupy an area of about 347 hectares, with a depth of 7-8 meters and are waterlogged and anaerobic, thus preserving organic materials.” UNESCO says the site is important because: 1) it is “an outstanding cultural center, the birthplace of the national style of stone architecture, and one of the oldest national schools of painting, the town of Novgorod influenced the development of Russian art throughout the Middle Ages.” 2) “With the broad range of monuments conserved in Novgorod, the town is a veritable conservatory of Russian architecture of the Middle Ages and later periods (11th-19th centuries). These monuments alone suffice to illustrate the development of Russian architecture.” 3) “Novgorod was one of the major centers of Russian culture and spirituality; its monuments and the treasures they house bear living witness to this.”

Kremlin of Novgorod

Kremlin of Novgorod (next to the Volkhav River) is a large sprawling complex encompassing a large number of buildings and a park-like spaces. Among the buildings inside are the leaning 17th-century clock tower, the 15th-century St. Sophia belfry museum, Metropolitan's Chambers (with a concert hall and Pokrosskaya Tower.The Chamber of Facets contains an excellent collection of icons and church treasures. The Museum of History & Art is one best archaeological and historical research museums in Russia. It features early icons, birch-bark manuscripts, paintings, folk art and early wood sculptures.

The Novgorod Kremlin, also known as Novgorod detinets, is the oldest stone fortress in Russia. Founded by Prince Yaroslav and first mentioned in historical chronicles in 1044, the Kremlin was the administrative, public, and religious center of Novgorod and was where the veche and the election of the posadnik was held and was where Alexander Nevsky's troops set off to fight the Swedes, The Kremlin was also where the chronicles were kept and books copied. Its walls protected the Cathedral of St. Sophia and the residence of the Novgorod ruler.

The first Novgorod fortress was built in the middle of the 11th century. It was located on a small hill between two ravines where is St. Sophia Cathedral now stands. Under Prince Vladimir Vladimirovich Yaroslavich and Mstislav (11th -12th centuries) the kremlin expanded and reached its current size. At the end of the 15th century, the walls were built of the stones you see today.

The of walls are kremlin at Veliky Novgorod are about 1350 meters in length. Their thickness reaches four meters. Walking around the Kremlin takes about half an hour. The walls are best viewed when approached along the Volkhov River from Ilmen Lake. A road leading to the bridge joining the Sofiyskaya and Trading Squares, as was the case in medieval times, passes through the Kremlin. The 41-meter-high, 19th century, Kokuy observation tower offers a panoramic view of the entire city and the surrounding area. The landscape of the southern suburbs has remained almost unchanged since the time when Vikings called it Holmgard, a country of islands. The Volkhov starts from Ilmen Lake; its tributaries flow around numerous islands, overgrown with tall grass.

These days, the Kremlin is a cultural and tourist center. It hosts the major exhibits at the Novgorod Reserve Museum, conducts restoration workshops and sponsors a philharmonic, an artistic college, artistic and music schools. From May to November you can also visit “The Gallery of the Time”, an exhibitions about the history of Novgorod in the 20th century. The exhibition is housed is the the Spasskaya Tower and Princes Tower.

Towers and Monuments at Novgorod Kremlin

Of the twelve towers nine have survived. The oldest date to the 16th century. Intercession Tower, the only one the projecting beyond the wall was the most vulnerable during an artillery attack. Therefore, it has three-meter-thick walls and facades have 55 loopholes. The neighboring five-tiered tower Zlatoustovskaya Tower was converted into a prison in the 17th century. It former name meant Prison.

Two of the towers at the Kremlin of Novgorod are not typical round towers. One of them — the Metropolitan — dates to the 17th century and is known as "round" or "red." The second — Theodore — got its name from the church erected in memory of the brother of Alexander Nevsky, who died on the eve of his wedding. Theodore was canonized as a saint. His relics rest in the Cathedral of St. Sophia.

The highest tower of the Kremlin is Kokuy Watch Tower. It is 41 meters high and was built in 18th century and now is open for visiting in the summer from 11:00am to 7:00 pm, with a lunch break from 2:00pm to 3:00 pm, closed Monday and Thursday are days off. From its top opens a great view on Novgorod lands many kilometers away.

Millennium of Russia Monument (inside the kremlin across from Holy Sofia Cathedral) was raised on 1862 to celebrate the 1000th anniversary of the founding of Russia (the arrival of the Viking Prince Rurik in Novgorod in 862). The monument looks like a bell and consists of three tiers, each of which tells about the heroic past of Russia and its important dates — the baptism of Russia, the foundation of the Russian Empire and others. This huge bronze wedding cake features images of many of Russia's great figures, include the Alexander Nevesky, Peter the Great and Ivan the Terrible. The Nazi wanted to cut it up and use it for scrap but the Red Army arrived in time rescue it.

Holy Sofia Cathedral

Holy Sofia Cathedral (inside the kremlin) is considered the greatest church in Novgorod and is probably the oldest church in Russia. Finished in 1050, it is a stolid Byzantine structure with some of Russia’s most treasured relics, icons and Byzantine, West European and Russian art. The bronze doors captured from the Swedes are covered with biblical scenes. A few icons date back to the 14th century. Most of the frescoes have been painted in the last hundred years but some are among the oldest found in Russia.. It is possible to climb Sofia belfry. At the time it was built, the cathedral was the only stone building in Novgorod. Since the 11th century, a saying has gone, “Where there is St. Sophia, there is Novgorod.”

The cathedral was founded by Yaroslav the Wise and his son Vladimir. It was built from 1045 to 1050 years and is the oldest surviving stone building of the medieval Rus. Novgorod citizens have always regarded the cathedral with the greatest reverence. For example, they believed that it was Sofia who protected the city from Mongol attacks. It is known that in 1238, Mongol troops turned back after nearly reaching Novgorod. Citizens regarded this as a sign of God. In 1391, the city escaped a terrible plague. Again Novgorod citizens linked this with the intercession of St. Sophia.

The cathedral has five domes. In the 15th century, the central one was covered with gold, giving the cathedral an even more majestic appearance. Along with the gilding of the dome, a lead dove symbolizing the Holy Spirit was installed on the cross. A similar medieval Rus structure, Kiev Cathedral, has not survived to the present. According to legend, while painting the dome, the Savior's outstretched hand was depicted in the form of a fist. The fresco was repainted several times until the painter had a dream where Christ told him that he had deliberately balled his hand into fist to keep Novgorod in it.

In addition to fragments of 12th-century frescoes, the St. Sophia Cathedral also has ancient birch bark graffiti, scrabbled with a stylus (even though Duke Vladimir the Baptist of Kiev by decree had forbidden the cutting of inscriptions on the walls of temples already in the 10th century). These inscriptions have survived largely because Novgorod's architecture was never destroyed by Tatar raids. The inscriptions often address the Christian God, but some carry the echo of heathen beliefs and others are of a purely routine character.

Thanks to this graffiti, we know the names of some of those who worked during the construction and decoration of this masterpiece of ancient Russian architecture. They are George, Stephen and Sezhir. Once the cathedral was built, it was painted in stages and in separate fragments. Real painting work in the cathedral began only in 1108. This work partially hid earlier frescoes that were later discovered during the renovation of the cathedral in the late 19th century.

Today, visitors enter the Cathedral through the northern door. The western gate, Magdeburg Gate, was once the main entrance. It was moved and is now open on holidays and during ceremonial services. This gate is unusual as well. They came to Novgorod as a war trophy from Sweden in the 12th century. The gate was made in Germany in the city of Magdeburg. In the 15th century, the gate was reconstructed by a Russian craftsman Abraham; his image can be seen today on the gate next to the image of the German foundry craftsmen Veysmut and Rikvin.

Paintings and Icons in Holy Sofia Cathedral

In the Martiryevskaya portico, exceptional images of Saint Constantine and Helena, dating to the 11th century, have stood the test of time. They are quite unusual: the fresco was not painted on wet plaster, as usual, but on dry plaster. Researchers believe that this technique was used to paint the ancient wooden churches of Rus.

The final interior decorations in the St. Sophia Cathedral were completed in the 12th century. Two icons from the 11th-century altar have survived: “Savior on the Throne” and “Apostles Peter and Paul”. A newer, taller iconostasis was installed in the St. Sophia Cathedral much later, in the 14th-16th centuries.

The icon Our Lady of the Sign, painted in 1170, is considered to be miraculous; according to a legend, she protected the city from a Suzdal invasion. This event played such a significant role in the life of the city that it is still celebrated as a revered religious holiday. This story became the basis for another famous icon named the Battle of the Novogorodians with the Suzdalians.

There are two iconostases in the St. Sophia Cathedral today: the Assumption iconostasis and the Christmas iconostasis. Before the Assumption iconostasis, the miraculous icon Our Lady of the Sign can be seen. On the Christmas iconostasis, two icons that are considered to be miraculous can be seen: Our Lady of Tikhvin and Savior on the Throne. Our Lady of Tikhvin is the most revered icon. The Savior on the Throne icon was painted in the 16th century over a more ancient picture that also survived (it can be seen through special little windows).

Bell Tower of St. Sophia Cathedral

Bell Tower of St. Sophia Cathedral is a five-tier construction that looks like a white monolith and was built under Archbishop Euphemius II. At the foot of the tower there are five medieval monumental bells. The belfry itself houses bells of modern casting. Every day the sound of the bells can be heard far away above the city. The great Russian composer Sergei Rachmaninov, who was born in the Novgorod region, said the chimes of these bells was one of his brightest childhood memories. Now the belfry houses the exhibition “Ancient Bells of Veliky Novgorod”. The largest bell exhibited weighs over 20 poods (about 705 pounds, or 320 kilograms) and the smallest one is over 1.5 poods (about 53 pounds, or 24 kilograms). The viewing point provides a picturesque panorama of Veliky Novgorod. In the summer time it is open daily, except Tuesday.

Bell Tower of St. Sophia Cathedral stands over the Kremlin wall with five spans forming its upper part. This type of construction was invented during the reign of Euphemius II and then was duplicated only twice in Russia. The first mention of the bell tower is in 1437, when spring flooding of the river Volkhov brought the tower down. Two years later a new bell tower was built in the place of the old place. Since then the tower has been rebuilt many times, and only architectural and archeological research and the images on the ancient icons give us a picture of its original shape. However, the “main bells” of Novgorod, for the most part remain true to the original despite the reconstructions.

It is said that Sofia bells could be heard 80 kilometers (50 miles) away and were noted for the special melody they produced. These are the bells Rachmaninoff heard. Unfortunately, nowadays these bells are on the ground. During World War II, an effort was made to evacuate the bells on a barge, but the ship engine was hit by artillery, so the attempt to evacuate them failed and the bells were damaged. But maybe one day the sound of the bells will be heard again over Novgorod. Scientists are working on technologyto to “cure” the bells.

Now there is an exhibition “Ancient bells of Veliky Novgorod” in Sophia bell tower, which is represented by 14 bells. The biggest one weighs more than 20 poods (320 kg), and the smallest one is more than 1.5 poods (about 24 kg). Sightseeing platform which is located in the bell tower is open daily for visitors during the warm season. It opens a spectacular panoramic view of Veliky Novgorod.

Churches in Novgorod

Churches include Church of Our Savior of the Transfiguration, a medieval church with a an image of suffering Christ looking down from the central dome; the Church of Our Savior Nereditsa (1198), with some remnants of 12th century frescoes; Church off SS Peter and Paul (1406); and Church of St. Theodore Stratelaetes (1361). Some of the old churches such as the Church Intercession and Church of Apostle Philip are working churches with regular services. Others remain museums, concert halls and exhibition halls they were been converted into by the Communists.

Church of Our Savior-at-Ilino is a charming, solid-looking Novgorod-style, 14th-century church. The interiors contains the only surviving frescoes of the legendary Byzantine painter Theophanes the Greek. The church is in amazingly good shape considering it was used as a machine gun nest by the Nazis in World War II.

Church of St. Simeon the God-Receiver is a small two-tier church opened in 1467 and located on the ground of the former 12th century Zverin monastery. It was preceded by a wooden church built in one day under the vow given to stop the Great Plague. The unique wall-painting of the church interior are well. preserved. The arches, pillars, and walls are covered with small paintings of saints united in a way that makes it possible to pray for all the people died of plague. On the territory of the former monastery is the 14th century Church of the Protection of the Virgin. The relics of St. Savva of Vishera the Miracle-worker are kept here.

Cathedral of the Nativity of Our Lady in St. Anthony's Monastery Antonovo, Veliky Novgorod) was founded in the early 12th century and several original structures are intact till this day. The founder was a wealthy foreigner named Anthony who was born in Rome. His arrival in Novgorod has grown over with legends and tales that have been preserved in his hagiography (a literary genre that had a saint's life as its subject). According to one legend, Anthony the Roman arrived in Novgorod by sea on a rock, having sailed on it around the European continent miraculously in just three days. This rock is still displayed in the courtyard of the monastery's Cathedral of the Nativity of Our Lady that was built in 1117. It is said that the rock has healing powers.

Fragments of the original 12th century frescoes have been uncovered on the alter wall of the cathedral. The figures are depicted in very dynamic, turning positions and a very realistic. A name "Peter" is scratched out over one of the fresco's figures. It is thought that it is the name of the architect who built the cathedral. A seminary was established at the monastery in 1740 – it was one of Russia's first learning institutions. Now the building houses one of the departments of Novgorod State University named after Yaroslav the Wise.

Yaroslav Court and Cathedral of St. Nicholas

Yaroslav Court (accessible from the kremlin by a foot bridge over the Volkhav River) is the Novgorod market area. Named after Prince Yaroslav the Wise, who once had a palace here, it contains a 17th-century riverside arcade, a market gatehouse, old churches sponsored by medieval merchant guilds and an 18th-century road palace built as a rest stop for Catherine the Great. The Novgorod veche was gathering place for traders from all over Russia. Ships moored on the banks of the river. The historical architectural complex was badly damaged in World War II.

Court Cathedral of St. Nicholas is all that remains of Yaroslav's palace. Inside are remains are some 12th century frescoes, including fragments of “Job on the Dung Hill”, which shows of Job covered in boils, and “Last Judgement”. Most of the painting refers to the 19th century. Most of the frescoes date back to the 19th century. Currently, the Yaroslavl courtyard has been restored and is included in the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

St. Nicholas Cathedral was built in 1113-1136 and consecrated in honour of St.Nicholas the Miracle-Worker, who was highly revered in Rus. In May, 2013 exhibitions timed to the 900 anniversary of the cathedral were open: 1) drawings and graffiti from 11th to 14th centuries preserved on the walls of the Novgorod cathedrals; 2) materials related to the research and restoration of St. Nicholas Cathedra; and 3) an exhibition honoring of St. Nicholas the Miracle-Worker in Novgorod with many items including icons, liturgic items of different type and purpose, prince seals of the 11th to 13th centuries with the image of the saint. One round icon with St, Nicholas’ image, according to the legend, healed Prince Mstislav. There are hagiographic icons, icons from a cathedral iconostasis,, indicating about the honouring of St. Nichola as well as 16th century needlework and 16th century carved wooden sculpture by Nichola Mozhaisky.

Check out the panorama the Great Market and Prince yard in the new multimedia exhibition complex. A 360˚ panoramic screen, six meters in diameter shows images created using six wide-angle projectors controlled by high-power computers. The system also produces various sound effects.

Near Novgorod

Boating in Novgorod include boat trips on the Volkhov River, Lake Ilmen and the marshes surrounding the town. A few boats that gather around the kremlin landing have scheduled one-hour trips, Other take groups of 10 or more for a set fee. A boat trip along the Volkhov River to Lake Ilmen with a stop at Rurik’s Hill Fort cost 700 rubles for adults, 300 rubles for children students 7-12 years and is free for children under 7 years old.

Rurikovo Settlement (Rurik’s Hill Fort) (two kilometers south of Veliky Novgorod’s city center) is an ancient Rus hill fort and archaeological site and the original 9th century settlement of Veliky Novgorod.. Also known as Rurikovo Gorodische, and in Scandinavian sources as Holmgård, it is located across from Yuriev Monastery where the Volkhov River flows out of Lake Ilmen. Part of the Novgorod UNESCO World Heritage Site, it includes the original residence of the princes of Novgorod.

Rurikovo Settlement dates to the Viking Age and was situated at the source of the Volkov River, guarding the trade route “From the Varangians to the Greeks”. The settlement is a ruin now. But from the observation deck located nearby, you can enjoy beautiful views of the ruins and see both the Yuriev Monastery and the Kremlin. Archeological excavations done near the fortress, its dwellings, and utility structures provide prove that Rurik's Hill Fort dates to 9th-10th centuries (The city of Novgorod was founded in the late 10th-early 11th centuries). In the center of the hill fort are the ruins of the Cathedral of the Annunciation erected by the Prince Mstislav the Great in 1103 and then reconstructed in the 14th century. The Hill Fort was used by rulers from the Novgorod area until the age of Ivan the Terrible. The area can be explored on foot or by bike or from a boat trip along the Volkhov River to Lake Ilmen

Tesov Narrow Gauge Railway (65 kilometers from Veliky Novgorod in the village of Tesovo-Netylsky) offers rides. In the summer you can ride in a special railway carriage. In the winter you can ride in a special warmed up passenger car. The cost of the tour for adults is 700 rubles, for children under 12 years a ticket is 400 rubles. Children under 6 years are admitted for free. Excursions are held all year round. A nice bonus is tea drinking. Adults can take a class on driving the locomotive.

Museum “Slavic Village of the 10th Century” (in the village of Lyubytino, 120 kilometers east of Veliky Novgorod) is a small settlement with copies of traditional Slavic housing and information on the history, culture and beliefs of the ancient Slavs. The bus journey from Veliky Novgorod to Lyubytino takes about three hours and costs 550 rubles. Since most often the bus leaves at 6:50pm you will need to stop for the night in Lyubytino. At the recreation center of “ Lyubytino Khutor” (Lyubytinsky district, Bor village, 129). You can take a bath, rent a bike or go horse riding. Rooms go for 2500 rubles a night.

St. George (Yureiev) Monastery

St. George Monastery (just south of Novgorod) is a function careworn 12th-century monastery also known as Yureiev Monastery. Founded by Prince Yaroslav of Kiev on the southern reaches of Veliky Novgorod., it situated on the Volkhov river, near Lake Ilmen. The Cathedral of St. George has been largely reconstructed. Many other buildings date back to the 19th century. It is set in a beautiful location among swamps and fields.

There is a legend regarding the year in which St. George's monastery was founded, 1030. Following a victory over the a group of Chuds (local Finnic peoples), prince Yaroslav the Wise founded the city of Yuriev (now: Tartu, Estonia) and constructed churches in Novgorod and Kiev in honor of George (Yury) the Victorious, his patron saint. The St. George's Cathedral in Novgorod was built on the route from the city to the countryside residence of the prince in the village of Rakomo on the shore of Lake Ilmen. Near the cathedral a monastery of the same name was founded.

The earliest documented data about St. George's Monastery is dated 1119, when prince Vsevolod Mstislavovich founded “a stone church named after George and built by a master by the name of Petr.” St. George's Cathedral, together with the Church of the Annunciation constructed opposite to it in the fortress in 1103, formed a kind of propylaeum through which the people entered the city. The importance of St. George's Cathedral was stressed by the fact that the prince's chronicles were written in it and the cathedral itself was used as the burial vault of Novgorod princes. The mother and brother of Alexander Nevsky, Dmitry Shemyak, among other historical figures, are buried here.

The cathedral was painted in the 12th century. In 1902, the old paintings were restored (actually, re-painted). The original frescoes were preserved in the window jambs and in the upper part of the stair tower, where a small church was arranged back in ancient times. Ninety-three steps lead to them.

St. George's Monastery was one of the largest property owners in Novgorod. Its lands were situated in different places: from the Lovat river head up to Onega, and from Shelon up to Sestrinsky camp in Volokalamsk district near Moscow. The monks had their own granary in the Novgorod Kremlin and their own stands at the market. Even at the end of the 17th century, when some of the monastery's possessions were confiscated, it still owned 15 small monasteries, thousands of peasants, wide agricultural lands, fisheries, trade shops, and salt works granted by the grand ducal and patriarchal letters. The second rise of St. George's Monastery was in the first half of the 19th century, when countess A.A. Orlova-Chesmenskaya, the goddaughter of abbot Photius, sponsored repairs in the old buildings and funded the construction of new ones.

Even today, St. George's Monastery seems grand, despite the fact that it is not yet completely restored. It includes a 52-meter-high bell tower and five buildings: eastern (with prison cells), southern (with the Church of Our Lady of the Burning Bush), Archimandrite's (with the Cathedral of Our Saviour, under which both Archbishop Fotiy and Countess Orlova-Chesmenskaya are buried), northern and the Cathedral of the Rising of the Cross (1823). Its five sky-blue domes with shiny golden stars attract attention from afar. The cathedral is squat, a bit too heavy, but convenient for services.

In the 19th to the beginning of the 20th century, the monastery had a wonderful garden and flower beds, from which the roads led to Orlov's country house and to the house of A. A. Orlova-Chesmenskaya and to Novgorod. Willows were planted along the roads. These 150 years old trees remain to this day.

Church of the Transfiguration of Our Savior on Nereditsa Hill, 1198

Church of the Transfiguration of Our Savior (3 kilometers to south of Novgorod near the Gorodische) was built in 1198 by Novgorodian Prince Yaroslav Vladimirovich near Prince's residence and was dedicated to his sons” memory. The year after the church was built it was decorated with frescoes. The painter of the murals could be the well-known artist Olisey Grechin. The cloister was founded where Novgorodian Prince Afanasiy Danilovich, a grandson of Alexander Nevsky, took monastic vows in 1322, before his death, and was buried.

The Church of the Transfiguration of Our Savior on Nereditsa Hill was rebuilt several times. In 1903-1904 the restoration work (the first truly scientific restoration in Russia) gave the church its original appearance back. The church frescoes are not only famous in Russia but also in Europe. Church of the Transfiguration of Our Savior was badly damaged during World War II. Only about 50 percent of the building and 15 percent of painting remained intact. Restoration works began in 1944 and the church was restored in 1956-1958.

Church of the Transfiguration of Our Savior on Nereditsa Hill is on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list. The restoration of the frescoes is still being carried out. The expressive fragments of “The Day of Judgment” and images of the saints and martyrs in sacristy are historical and cultural treasures.

Vitoslavlitsy Museum of Wooden Architecture

Vitoslavlitsy Museum of Wooden Architecture (in the village of Vitoslavlitsy, four kilometers from Veliky Novgorod). is an open-air museum of wooden architecture with some of the oldest wooden architectural monuments in Russia, including residential buildings, craft workshops churches, huts, chapels and a mill from the 16th to 19th centuries.

A village existed on the site from the beginning of the 12th century to the 18th century. Later it was the site of the Semevskiy noble estate, bought by A. A. Orlova-Chesmenskaya. Of the old manor, a two-story house still remains and a one-story wing, as well as some parts of the manor park.

Many beautiful old wooden churches and peasant houses were relocated here from around Novgorod region. The museum was established in 1964, when the first exhibit — the Church of Assumption of the Mother of God, dated 1595 — arrived from Kuritsko village. Today the collection at Vitoslavlitsy a total of 34 buildings, including some of Russia’s best preserved examples of folk wooden architecture, spread over an area of 33.4 hectares.

Some of the peasant houses, rural chapels, and churches have exhibits in them. The Dobrovolsky double house contains exhibitions titled “The Arrival of the Badger” and “Wool Milling Craft”. The museum and the monastery also houses the work of Alexander Grekov, a Russian man who reassembled many frescoes in buildings damaged in World War II. He hunted down pieces of plaster scattered in ruined buildings and on hillsides and assembling them like a giant jigsaw puzzle and glued them altogether.

Every year, the Vitoslavlitsy Museum hosts folklore and crafts festivals, ethnographic programs, Christmas festivities, and the International Festival of Chimes. Costumed dancers and singers perform shows. Tickets: 170 rubles for adult, 120 rubles for students over 16;,children under 16 are free of charge. Some workshops require an additional admission fee.

Staraya Russa: Where Dostoyevsky wrote the Brother Karamazov

Staraya Russa (opposite side of Lake Ilmen from Veliky Novgorod) is an old town that began as a Viking trading posts and was later used by Dostoyevsky as retreat. The riverside log cabin used by Dostoyevsky to write the “Brother Karamazov”, “The Possessed” and “The Adolescent” is now a museum. A number of family photos, books and possessions are on display. There is also a 12th-century church and a 17th-century church in Staraya Russa, which can be reached by bus or boat in two hours from Novgorod.

The Memorial Museum FM Dostoevsky in Staraya Russa opened May 4, 1981. The great Russian writer arrived to Staraya Russa in 1872 and lived there with his family for eight years. For him, the town was a place of relaxation and creativity. The house is on the quiet shores of Pererytitsy. The house-museum recreates a 19th century living situation. Some of the furniture, utensils and household items belonged to Dostoevsky’s family. Others date to the time he lived in the house. Many of the belongings, documents and books are authentic, belonging to the writer and his family.

The first floor serves as the museum. The porch, six rooms on the second floor, front, the living room, the writer study, dining room, and Anna's children tooms have all been restored in the form in which they were in Dostoevsky’s time. Residents of Staraya Russa were inspirations for some characters of Dostoevsky’s novels and the city itself served as model for some of the settings. Dostoevsky also wrote famous "Pushkin speech" while living on the house.

In 1918 Dostoevsky House was nationalized and its contained various institutions. After the liberation of Staraya Russa from Nazi German occupation the house was one of the few surviving wooden buildings. In 1969, the first Dostoevsky exhibition was set up in two rooms. After major restoration in 2000-2001, the museum was expanded and has welcomed many visitors since then.

Valdai National Park

Valdai National Park (150 kilometers southeast Veliky Novgorod) is a beautiful park comprised mainly of forests and lakes. There are many hiking trails and places to enjoy boating. The park organizes nature walks and other outings. Visitors can stay in tents or rent a guest houses for around 2500 rubles (US$40) a day.

Valdaisky National Park was established in 1990, to preserve the unique forests and lakes of the Valdai hills. Located in the Okulovsky, Valdaisky, and Demyansky districts of Novgorodskaya oblast, park covers is 158.4 square kilometers. In 2004, the park received the status of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Apart from the natural landmarks, the park has plenty of attractions of historical and cultural interest, including 18 neolithic dwelling sites and the burial mounds from the 6th-9th centuries. Every year the park is visited by up to 60,000 people. The tourists are attracted primarily by the lakes, the largest of which are Valdaiskoe, Velye, Polnovsky ples of Lake Seliger, and Borovno. Valdaisky Park offers more than 100 recreational sites where one can set up a tent and camp.

The visitor's center of the National Park is located on the Obraztsova mountain and offers a great view on the clear waters of Valdai Lake. Many events are organized in Valdaisky every year. In the summer, the Biankovskie readings take place on Borovno Lake. Then there is Fisherman's Day. Artists of all sorts congregate for the Nord Vest Festival of Amateur Artists. On July 9, for the holiday of the Tikhvin Icon of the Mother of God, a Cross procession and consecration of waters take place at the Tekunok water source near Novotroitsa village. In the beginning of October, the Kalevala Festival is organized on Lake Uzhin.

Seliger Lake

Lake Seliger (320 kilometers northwest of Moscow) is located near the headwaters of the Volga. It is a beautiful place, dotted with islands and surrounded by forests with pines and white-barked birches. There are plenty of opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, canoeing and hunting. You can take a boat ride to an island with a monastery turned into a labor camp in the Stalin era. Website: region.visitnovgorod.ru

Located in the Tver and Novgorod Oblasts and of glacial origin, Seliger Lake covers a total area of 260 square kilometers and has about 160 islands covering 38 square kilometers. The largest island is Khachin. It covers an area of 30 square kilometers and has ten lakes of its own. The water is fresh and generally clean. Among the 30 species of fish that live in Seliger are bream, pike, burbot, pike perch and ide.

The deepest part of the lake is 24 meters. The irregular coastline of 589 kilometers long and consists of 24 distinct stretches, broken up by rivers and channels. A total of 110 rivers and tributaries flow into the lake, the largest of which are the Krapivenka, Soroga and Seremukha. Only one river flows out of it — the Selizharovka. One of the largest stretches of Seliger is the Polnovsky stretch.

The first mention of Lake Seliger is in the 12th century. At that time the village of Polnovo on Seliger was named as a a settlement on the ancient trade route between Volga and Novgorod. On the shores of the lake are numerous archeological sights, the oldest of which date back to the 3rd-2nd centuries B.C. On the eastern and western shores of the Polnovsky stretch, there are graveyards, mounds and hills from the 9th-15th centuries.

Nilova Hermitage

Nilo-Stolbensky Hermitage (on Stolbny Island on Seliger Lake, 10 kilometers to the north of the town of Ostashkovo) is a Russian Orthodox monastery. Also known as Nilova Hermitage, its has served over the years as a monastery, POW camp, juvenile criminal colony, hospital, nursing home and holiday camp. Now it is under the control of the Russian Orthodox Church.

The monastery dates back to 1528 when a hermit monk, Venerable Nil, moved from near Rzhev to Stolbny Island. During the first year, he lived in a dug-out hut. Later he built a cell and a prayer chapel. During his time there he endured fires, floods, bandits and animal attacks. However, Nil never gave up or moved away, overcoming adversity with prayer and faith and is said to have healed the sick. There is a legend that the Venerable Nil made a vow to never lie down. He slept standing up, keeping himself upright with ropes and hooks driven into a wall. Venerable Nil lived on the island for 27 years until his death in 1555. Before he died he wished that a monastery be built in that spot he lived and that wish was ultimately fulfilled.

The construction of the Epiphany Cathedral of the monastery began in 1767, and was finished in 1833. But many monks were already living there at that time. The monastery flourished in the 17th-19th centuries. In the early 20th century, the number of permanently residing monks stood at 1,000. After the Revolution of 1917, the cloister was sacked. Despite thing the monastery continued to exist until 1927. In the Soviet era is when it served as a POW camp, juvenile criminal colony, hospital, nursing home and holiday camp. It was returned to the church only in 1990.

There are two ways to reach Nilova Hermitage: by tourist boat across the Seliger Lake from Ostashkov, or by car. The monastery and other sights of Stolbny Island are open to visitors every day. You can view the cloister of the monastery and climb the bell tower of the Epiphany Cathedral to see breathtaking sights of Seliger Lake. Venerable Nil’s relics are considered holy and monastery attracts many pilgrims. Entrance to the territory is free. Visitor are advised to dress conservatively. Women are expected to wear long skirts and cover their heads. Men should not wear hats. There is a hotel in the monastery. Homestays are guest house are available on nearby Svetlitsa peninsula. Local shops sells honey, bread, dairy products and tea. For more information check the Tourist Portal of Tver Oblast: www.welcometver.ru

Image Sources: Wikimedia Commons

Text Sources: Federal Agency for Tourism of the Russian Federation (official Russia tourism website russiatourism.ru ), Russian government websites, UNESCO, Wikipedia, Lonely Planet guides, New York Times, Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, National Geographic, The New Yorker, Bloomberg, Reuters, Associated Press, AFP, Yomiuri Shimbun and various books and other publications.

Updated in September 2020

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