The World, the largest privately owned residential mega yacht on earth, has sparked enquiries about the definition of a yacht and why precisely this ship-like vessel is indeed classified as a yacht.
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For clarification, Brandbuzz Magazine offers the following analogy:
A cruise ship operates like a hotel, where passengers book rooms and follow a set itinerary, while a yacht functions more like a private villa. On a yacht, charterers rent the entire space and have control over how they use it during their rental period, accommodating only the invited guests.
The distinction goes beyond practicality; it’s about the experience. Unlike the crowded environment of a cruise ship with hundreds of passengers, a private yacht offers a personalised journey to destinations of choice, exclusively for family and friends.
In essence, a mega yacht is a privately owned luxury vessel operated by a professional crew, offering a customisable travel experience depending on the owner’s preferences and wealth.
Crew members typically enjoy better wages and work in a more intimate setting, catering to the owner and a select number of guests. Despite its large size, crew members work closely together and have specific responsibilities while maintaining a high level of respect and socialisation among themselves.
Much like a cruise ship, The World has a massive lobby, a deck with a mini-shopping mall, a fitness centre, a golf simulator, an impressive tennis court, a running track, a swimming pool, a library, and, of course, cocktail lounges for the nightlife.
It has 165 residences, including 106 apartments, 19 studio apartments, and 40 studios, all owned by residents.
A cruise ship, on the other hand, is part of a fleet owned by a major corporation and follows a fixed schedule, catering to a large number of passengers year-round. Crew members often work long hours for extended periods, dealing with numerous passengers daily, although they may receive tips in addition to their wages.
And that is why The World is called a mega yacht and not a cruise ship.
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Picture: Wikipedia