The mega yachts dominating Monaco this weekend

As a journalist covering the Monaco Grand Prix, the goal each year is always the same - get onboard one of the yachts moored in its famous the marina.

As the Principality prepares for the 2026 Formula 1 Grand Prix weekend, the waters of Port Hercule and the surrounding French Riviera have once again become a floating exhibition of some of the largest and most expensive private yachts on earth. The yachts are currently berthed in Port Hercule, with many more anchored offshore between Monaco and the small and beautiful town of Beaulieu-sur-Mer.

The Monaco Grand Prix has long been regarded as the world's most glamorous sporting event, and the superyachts gathered here are often worth far more than the racing teams competing on the streets below. This year's fleet includes several vessels exceeding 100 metres in length and carrying price tags measured in hundreds of millions of dollars.

The largest and most talked-about yacht in the area is Kismet, a 122-metre masterpiece built by Lürssen and delivered in 2024. The yacht is owned by billionaire businessman Shahid Khan, owner of the NFL's Jacksonville Jaguars and Premier League club Fulham FC. Industry estimates place Kismet's construction cost at roughly US$360–400 million.

Kismet recently won Motor Yacht of the Year and is famous for its lavish amenities, including a spa inspired by Bali, a partially underwater cinema and interiors influenced by the Hall of Mirrors at Versailles. It is also available for charter at approximately €3million per week, making it one of the most expensive charter yachts in the world.

Another standout arrival is Breakthrough, the groundbreaking 118.8-metre Feadship launched in 2025. Widely regarded as the world's first hydrogen fuel-cell-powered superyacht, it represents a major technological leap for the industry.

Although ownership details have not been publicly disclosed, yacht industry analysts estimate a build cost comfortably above US$600 million. The vessel features a dedicated owner's deck, cinema, library and wellness centre while pioneering large-scale hydrogen propulsion.

The 112-metre Renaissance, built by Spain's Freire shipyard, is among the largest yachts in Monaco this weekend. Delivered in 2023, the vessel accommodates up to 36 guests and was designed specifically with charter operations in mind.

Industry estimates suggest a replacement value of approximately US$250–300 million. Renaissance is notable for its enormous spa facilities, double-height main salon and extensive entertainment spaces.

One of Monaco's most recognizable residents this weekend is Symphony, the 101.5-metre Feadship commissioned by luxury goods magnate Bernard Arnault, chairman and chief executive of LVMH.

Completed in 2015, Symphony reportedly cost more than US$150 million. The yacht includes six decks, a glass-bottom swimming pool, an outdoor cinema and a private owner's deck. Arnault's presence in Monaco during Grand Prix week has helped make Symphony one of the harbour's most photographed vessels.

Attessa IV belongs to American industrialist Dennis Washington. Originally built in Japan, the vessel underwent one of the most extensive yacht rebuilds ever attempted before emerging as a 101.2-metre floating mansion.

Experts estimate the acquisition and reconstruction cost exceeded US$300 million. The yacht features a cinema, spa, multiple guest lounges and a famous lounge built around a monumental Dale Chihuly glass sculpture.

The 90-metre Lionheart remains a Monaco Grand Prix regular. Built by Benetti, it is owned by British retail billionaire Sir Philip Green. The yacht reportedly cost around US$150 million when delivered in 2016.

Although the interior remains largely private, Lionheart's distinctive profile and expansive balconies make it one of the most recognizable yachts in Port Hercule.

Perhaps the most iconic design in the harbour is Alfa Nero, the 81.3-metre Oceanco famous for its dramatic black hull and innovative infinity pool that converts into an entertainment deck.

The yacht has been offered for sale at around €88.5 million, providing a useful benchmark for its current market value. Since its launch in 2007, Alfa Nero has remained one of the most admired superyachts in the Mediterranean.

This weekend's collection of yachts illustrates the extraordinary concentration of wealth that accompanies the Monaco Grand Prix. With more than 100 yachts berthed in Port Hercule and many more anchored offshore, the combined value of the vessels currently surrounding Monaco likely exceeds several billion dollars. From hydrogen-powered innovation aboard Breakthrough to the palatial luxury of Kismet and Symphony, the harbour has once again become the world's most exclusive marina and a showcase for the ambitions of the global ultra-wealthy.