yacht origin and meaning

1550s, yeaghe "a light, fast-sailing ship," from Norwegian jaght or early Dutch jaght , both from Middle Low German jacht , shortened form of jachtschip "fast pirate ship," literally "ship for chasing," from jacht "chase," from jagen "to chase, hunt," from Old High German jagon , from Proto-Germanic *yago- , from PIE root *yek- (2) "to hunt" (source also of Hittite ekt- "hunting net"). Related: Yachting ; yachtsman .

Entries linking to yacht

Old English huntian "chase game" (transitive and intransitive), perhaps developed from hunta "hunter," and related to hentan "to seize," from Proto-Germanic *huntojan (source also of Gothic hinþan "to seize, capture," Old High German hunda "booty"), which is of uncertain origin.

Not the usual Germanic word for this, which is represented by Dutch jagen , German jagen (see yacht (n.)). General sense of "search diligently" (for anything) is recorded from c. 1200. Related: Hunted ; hunting . To hunt (something) up "search for until found" is from 1791. Parlor game hunt the slipper is attested from 1766.

also jaeger , "German sharpshooter," 1776, from German Jäger , literally "huntsman," from jagen "to hunt," from Old High German jagon , related to Old Frisian jagia , Dutch jagen "to hunt," Old Norse jaga "to drive, to move to and fro" (see yacht (n.)). Applied to riflemen and sharpshooters in the German and Austrian armies. Englished as yager , yaeger from 1804.

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The Yacht – The Meaning and the Origin of the Word

In my language there are a few words for a floating object, or a vessel. According to the size and the purpose of the vessel, those words could be translated as “dinghy”, “yacht”, “boat” or “ship”. Some types of vessels have international names, for example “catamaran” or “hovercraft”.

What Does Yacht Mean?

However, when you say “ yacht” in my language, everyone know exactly what it is about. The word “yacht”, unlike other terms, has certain connotations. It always links with something classy, fancy, wealthy, elegant, and even glamorous.

For example, if you say that you have spent a week aboard a sailing boat , the recations of people will be more or less neutral. On the other hand, if you say that your week aboard a yacht was excellent, many people will become jealous. They will imagine you in a scene from a James Bond movie : aboard a massive white yacht in Monte Carlo , having a cold martini (shaken, not stirred)…

I wanted to share with you this language introduction because I found an interesting story about the word “yacht” and its origin. The word “yacht” became an English and an international term after an event that happened a long time ago.

How Do You Spell ‘Yacht’?

This word comes from the Dutch word “jacht”, which means “hunt”. Furthermore, “ j achtschepen” was the name for narrow, light and very fast sailing boats that the Dutchmen were using for intercepting larger and slower boats and ships.

One of the ‘hunters’ was given as a present to the British king Charles II . In His Majesty’s free time this vessel was not used for intercepting. Instead, was using it for fun. That is why the word “yacht” eventually became the term for vessels/boats made for pleasure.

I would highly appreciate comments from the native speakers of the  English and Dutch languages. Especially since I am not one of them. No matter whether this story is true or not, it still sounds interesting to me.

Find out more about sailing quotes and phrases here .

I wish you a calm sea, a fine wind and a strong mast!

8 thoughts on “The Yacht – The Meaning and the Origin of the Word”

I looked up the origin of the word yacht, and it said it is a mid 16th century, Early Modern Dutch word from ‘jaght,’ from ‘jaghtschip’ meaning “fast pirate ship,” from ‘jaght’ which means “hunting” + ‘schip’ meaning “ship”.

I like the story of King Charles. It makes sense that that is why a yacht has the definite aura of wealth and pleasure!

Almost but not 100%. Actually the verb ‘jagen’ to hunt goes back to middle high German,i.e. Deutsch not Dutch, and before that it was ‘jagon’ in lower high German. But it seems that it all started with Greek and travelled North.

I guess that mid 16th century, the Dutch word jaght or jaghtschip was the word that got picked up. Not the earlier middle high German word where it came from.

Today it is jacht in Dutch, meaning hunting and it also the word for a luxury sailing boat.

In German Jagd is the word for hunt. Germans use the Dutch or English Jacht or Yacht for the boat.

Did the Germans design the original schooners? I think not! Since some Netherlanders speak a form of the Deutschland language, this word is shared (jacht/Dutch—jagd/German: meaning to hunt). It was the Dutch (Netherlanders) who designed the “flyut” or flute sailing ships, l-o-n-g before any British ever thought of such a ship—and—any German. The schooner grew out of the basic designs of the Dutch flute sailing ship (known for it’s speed). The Dutch economy relied heavily on trade and shipping, and were, thus, cutting edge innovators in ship building. Their engineering skills, was and is, plainly seen in their dike system, as well.

My father built a beautiful wooden replica of the”yacht” referred by the author (“Yacht Mary”) which was a present from the city of Amsterdam to King Charles II of England in 1660. They wrecked the ship a few years later (already too much partying on yachts, perhaps?)

I noticed the plaque that came with the model ship spelled the name as “Yatch” Mary. First, I thought, maybe, it was old English or Dutch spelling but it looks like it was just an error.

Nice, We have made an eplainermovie about this subject!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l3HDZHF8w2E

In my head yogurt used to be spelled yoghurt and yacht used to be spelled yaught. Am I completely mis-remembering?

Dear Margaret, you are quite right for the spelling of the word yogurt that used to be, and sometimes still is, spelled with its old spelling yoghurt. However, there are no traces of the word yacht to have ever been spelled as yaught, but it would be best to take an etymology expert’s word for it.

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Definition of yacht

 (Entry 1 of 2)

Definition of yacht  (Entry 2 of 2)

intransitive verb

Examples of yacht in a Sentence

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'yacht.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

obsolete Dutch jaght , from Middle Low German jacht , short for jachtschip , literally, hunting ship

1557, in the meaning defined above

1836, in the meaning defined above

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Cite this Entry

“Yacht.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/yacht. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

Kids definition of yacht.

Kids Definition of yacht  (Entry 2 of 2)

from obsolete Dutch jaght (now jacht ), short for jachtschip, literally, "hunting ship"

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History of the Yacht

By: American Sailing Sailing History

When does a boat become a yacht? One answer has always been, you can tell a yacht when you see one. But, It really has nothing to do with size of the boat, weight of the boat, its style, sleeping quarters, heads, tillers, or a wheel. A yacht is a boat that was designed for the express pleasure of its owner.

The yacht is an invention of the 14th century Dutch. The Dutch used small, fast boats for chasing smugglers, pirates and criminals. Rich ship owners and merchants began using these small “ jaghts ” to sail out to celebrate their returning merchant ships. It quickly became chic to use these “ jaghts ” to take friends out just for pleasure.

“ Mary ” was presented to King Charles II by the Dutch in 1660.

Charles II of England spent 10 years in exile in Holland before he was returned to the English throne in 1660. His return to the throne was celebrated by the city of Amsterdam, presenting him with a luxurious 60’ yacht including a crew of 20. Her name was Mary. He took great pleasure in sailing her up and down the Thames. He studied navigation and even naval architecture and he built approximately 20 yachts during his lifetime. It can be said that he was the world’s first yachtsman. His enthusiasm for yachting was contagious and his brother James, Duke of York, joined him and also became an avid yachtsman as well.

As always when there are two sailboats on the water a race ensues. Soon the first organized regatta was planned as a 40-mile race on the Thames. It took place in 1661 between Katherine , Charles’s newly constructed yacht and Anne , the Duke of York’s new yacht with Charles himself at the helm Katherine won and a new sport was born.

Yachting stayed the Sport of Kings for over a century, but by the 1800s yachting had grown to included participants of more than just the crown heads of Europe. The worlds wealthiest had joined in. Yacht Clubs were forming. The first yacht club in the world, called the Cork Water Club , was established in Ireland in 1720, followed the Lough Ree Yacht Club in 1770 (again in Ireland), and the Starcross Yacht Club in 1772 in England.

Cowes Castle became the headquarters of the Royal Yacht Squadron around 1858.

Probably the most famous of all the English yacht clubs the The Royal Yacht Squadron was founded on June 1, 1815 in the Thatched House Tavern in St James’s, London as The Yacht Club by 42 gentlemen interested in yachting.

Across the pond the New York Yacht Club (NYYC) was started on July 30, 1844 when John Cox Stevens invited eight friends to his yacht Gimcrack , anchored in New York Harbor. They formed a syndicate to build a yacht with the intention of taking her to England and making some money competing in yachting regattas and match races. They choose to build a Pilot style Schooner to represent the club; at the time there was no faster design!

Pilot Schooners would lie at anchor in the inner harbor of New York City and wait for the behmoth square rigged Clippers carrying goods between America and Europe. The Pilot Boats purpose was to guide the huge square riggers that would appear at the entrance to New York Harbor’s Verazno Straights, to a berth in the City. The Schooners had to be fast to make a living. First one to the cargo ship got the job second got nothing.

The syndicate contracted with master schooner designer George Steers for a 101 ft (30.78 m) schooner which was christened America and launched on the 3 of May 1851. America crossed the Atlantic on her own bottom that year and challenged all of England’s fastest yachts to a match race. No yachts were willing to race her. Finally, America joined a free-for-all on Friday, August 22, around the Isle of Wight, racing against 15 yachts of the Royal Yacht Squadron in the club’s annual 53-nautical-mile (98 km) race around the Isle of Wight. Finishing 8 minutes ahead of its closest rival. America had won the Royal Yacht Squadron’s “ Hundred Guinea Cup “, later called the America’s Cup in honor of the yacht that won it.

The Yacht America

Watching the race was Queen Victoria, who supposedly inquired, “ Which is first? ” Told it was America , she asked, “ Which is second? ” “ Ah, Your Majesty, there is no second, ” was the reply. Or so the story goes. The NYYC defended that trophy from 1870-1983. This has been described by journalists as “ the longest winning streak in sports “.

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• 1.1 Etymology
• 1.2 Pronunciation
• 1.3.1 Derived terms
• 1.3.2 Translations
• 1.4.1 Translations
• 1.5 Anagrams
• 2.1 Etymology
• 2.2 Pronunciation
• 2.4 Further reading
• 3.1 Etymology
• 3.2 Pronunciation
• 3.4 References
• 3.5 Further reading
• 4.1 Etymology
• 5.1 Etymology
• 5.3 References
• 6.1 Etymology
• 6.3 References
• 7.1 Alternative forms
• 7.2 Etymology
• 7.3.1 Declension
• 7.3.2 Derived terms
• 7.4 Further reading

English [ edit ]

Etymology [ edit ]

Circa 1557; variant of yaught , earlier yeaghe ( “ light, fast-sailing ship ” ) , from Dutch jacht ( “ yacht; hunt ” ) , in older spelling jaght(e) , short for jaghtschip ( “ light sailing vessel, fast pirate ship ” , literally “ pursuit ship ” ) , compound of jacht and schip ( “ ship ” ) .

In the 16th century the Dutch built light, fast ships to chase the ships of pirates and smugglers from the coast. The ship was introduced to England in 1660 when the Dutch East India Company presented one to King Charles II, who used it as a pleasure boat, after which it was copied by British shipbuilders as a pleasure craft for wealthy gentlemen.

Pronunciation [ edit ]

• ( UK ) enPR : yŏt , IPA ( key ) : /jɒt/
• ( US ) enPR : yät , IPA ( key ) : /jɑːt/ , /jɑt/
• Rhymes: -ɒt

Noun [ edit ]

yacht ( plural yachts )

• 1897 December (indicated as 1898 ), Winston Churchill , chapter X, in The Celebrity: An Episode , New York, N.Y.: The Macmillan Company ; London: Macmillan & Co., Ltd. , →OCLC : The skipper Mr. Cooke had hired at Far Harbor was a God-fearing man with a luke warm interest in his new billet and employer, and had only been prevailed upon to take charge of the yacht after the offer of an emolument equal to half a year's sea pay of an ensign in the navy.
• 1907 August, Robert W[illiam] Chambers , chapter VI, in The Younger Set , New York, N.Y.: D. Appleton & Company , →OCLC : “I don’t mean all of your friends—only a small proportion—which, however, connects your circle with that deadly, idle, brainless bunch—the insolent chatterers at the opera,   [ … ] , the chlorotic squatters on huge yachts ,   [ … ] , the neurotic victims of mental cirrhosis, the jewelled animals whose moral code is the code of the barnyard—!"

Derived terms [ edit ]

• motor yacht , motoryacht , MY
• sailing yacht , steam yacht , SY
• yacht person

Translations [ edit ]

Verb [ edit ].

yacht ( third-person singular simple present yachts , present participle yachting , simple past and past participle yachted )

• ( intransitive ) To sail , voyage , or race in a yacht .

Anagrams [ edit ]

• Cathy , tachy , tachy- , yatch

French [ edit ]

Borrowed from English yacht , from Dutch jacht .

• IPA ( key ) : /jɔt/ , /jot/ , ( Canada ) /jat/

yacht   m ( plural yachts )

Further reading [ edit ]

• “ yacht ”, in Trésor de la langue française informatisé [ Digitized Treasury of the French Language ] , 2012.

Italian [ edit ]

Unadapted borrowing from English yacht .

• IPA ( key ) : /ˈjɔt/ [1]
• Rhymes: -ɔt

yacht   m ( invariable )

• the letter Y in the Italian spelling alphabet

References [ edit ]

• ^ yacht in Luciano Canepari , Dizionario di Pronuncia Italiana (DiPI)
• yacht in Treccani.it – Vocabolario Treccani on line , Istituto dell'Enciclopedia Italiana

Norman [ edit ]

Borrowed from English yacht .

yacht   ? ( plural yachts )

• ( Jersey ) yacht

Norwegian Bokmål [ edit ]

From Dutch jacht , via English yacht .

yacht   m ( definite singular yachten , indefinite plural yachter , definite plural yachtene )

• “yacht” in The Bokmål Dictionary .

Norwegian Nynorsk [ edit ]

yacht   m ( definite singular yachten , indefinite plural yachtar , definite plural yachtane )

• “yacht” in The Nynorsk Dictionary .

Swedish [ edit ]

Alternative forms [ edit ].

yacht   c

Declension [ edit ]

• yacht in Svenska Akademiens ordlista ( SAOL )
• yacht in Svensk ordbok ( SO )
• yacht in Svenska Akademiens ordbok ( SAOB )

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• English 1-syllable words
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To the Bitter End: How Sailors Have Shaped the English Language

While writing an article recently, I noticed that I’d used at least three expressions that have a clear nautical origin.

This, sadly, was not a rare example of me being clever, but rather shows just how many English words and phrases derive from our maritime past. 

Let’s begin, as any proper nautical education should, with our ports and our starboards. 

Port and starboard 

Before boats had rudders, they were steered by a board on the right side, which was known as a steerboard.  Thus it became the ‘steerboard side’.  The left side then became the side on which to tie up in port, so as to not damage the steerboard when docking. 

King Henry V1 of England wanted bigger guns on his ships, and ordered cannons too big to be tied on deck in the traditional manner.  He commissioned a Frenchman to solve the problem, who then built doors in the sides of the ship that the cannons could be fired through.  French word for door: porte. 

And there you have  it, the portholes we look through each day were originally built to fire a cannon through.   Now that would clear the summertime anchorage in Cala di Volpe pretty quick.  You are too close to my boat.  I can hear your music. Your stews are playing that song by Alicia Keys…again.  Roll out the cannons!  Ah, look at that. You are indeed on fire. 

While we’re on the subject of cannons, ‘Loose Cannon’ came from the danger present when a cannon that was tied in place on deck came free of its lashings and careened around the deck, often crushing crew under its heavy wheels.

Keel-hauling

This expression comes from the barbaric punishment of pushing a sailor on a rope over the side and dragging him under the boat from side to side.  Being put on watch for sleeping in doesn’t seem so bad now, does it. 

Letting the cat out of the bag

Reminding us again how lucky we have it, this expression comes from the 9- tailed whip used to discipline sailors, which was apparently stored in a bag made of red material so as to hide the bloodstains.  When the cat was let out of the bag, trouble was coming. 

The origins above are not generally contested.  But with the next ones, the waters get a bit murkier.

There is quite a fashion for attributing nautical origins to English phrases,  a trend which many commentators put down to a mysterious organisation called CANOE: the Committee to Ascribe a Nautical Origin to Everything.

A word of warning:  If you did look up CANOE, you’d be wasting your time as it is imaginary- unless of course you enjoy  looking at pictures of people wearing fluorescent clothing and helmets sitting  in hollowed out pieces of plastic and bashing into big rocks. 

Many of the popular nautical origins of sayings have been, if not disproved, then at least discredited by etymologists (not entymologists, as insects have no place in this story).  This is a shame (not the insect part, although if you were partial to insects I can see how that too would be disheartening), because some of the best stories have been found to be large parts fiction.  

In case you aren’t familiar with it, the most common explanation for the word ‘posh’ is that on the ships that passed between England and India in colonial days, the wealthier passengers would be allocated the cabins that received the least sunlight, in order to make their long journey more comfortable.    Therefore, port out, starboard home. POSH.  Apparently this abbreviation was written either on the passenger tickets, or scrawled in chalk on the guest luggage, to help the crew deliver the trunks to the correct cabins.

However, this is where the story starts to take on water , for no ticket has ever been found with the abbreviation POSH on it, nor a photo uncovered where the trunks had those chalk markings. Considering that many photos have survived from this era, where people gathered on the quay upon departure posing for photos amidst piles of luggage trunks, the absence of photographic proof makes it highly unlikely that the expression POSH evolved from here.  Furthermore, as Fiona MacPherson from the Oxford Dictionary blog  rightly points out, this origin doesn’t account for the return journey from India, where the sunlight would have fallen on the other side of the ship, necessitating the abbreviation ‘soph’. 

Oh, he’s so soph.  It's a shame the Port Out Starboad Home theory doesn't bear scrutiny, because it’s a jolly good story, and in the absence of an interesting alternative, I am going to hold out hope for a ‘posh’ ticket to be discovered one day in an episode of Antiques Roadshow.

Son of a gun

Another highly contested entry into the CANOE hall of fame is ‘son of a gun’, which has several possible explanations and has been around since at least 1708.

One possible and popular option is that when women were allowed to travel on the ships during passages, that the resulting babies would be conceived or born (or both) on the gun deck. 

Another, along the same lines, is that when a baby was born on board with unclear paternity, the child was apparently called ‘son of a gun’.    

However, another explanation is a good deal stronger: that a child born to a sailor or soldier, was simply called ‘son of a gun’ as the child of a military man. 

The difficulty in tracing these things and their meanings can be seen in the fact that son of a gun can either be complimentary: ‘You did it, you son of a gun!’, or derogatory: ‘He stole it, that son of a gun!’ (much like son of a bitch).   As we can’t even manage to be definitive in what sayings like this mean now, it is very difficult to know what they meant hundreds of years ago.  Ask an Australian, for instance, what a ‘bogan’ is.  You’re likely to get a wide range of answers, which may or may not involve the word ‘Holden’.  Language is a funny thing, as our crusty friends at CANOE will no doubt attest.

Another phrase of unclear origin is Hunky-Dory,  the most interesting story offered is that it came from the name of a street in Japan where sailors could find all sorts of pleasures:  Honki dori. 

Back on more solid etymological ground now, there is little argument about the following:

Feeling blue

Comes from the tradition of arriving in port with blue flags up and a blue line painted on the hull when the boat has lost a captain or senior office on a voyage.  Although it’s possible that below decks they were having a party, given the lashings and keel-haulings mentioned above. 

This expression definitely came about when the excess fat from boiling meat for crew meals was scraped off and stored in barrels that were then sold ashore for extra money for the crew.  The fat was referred to as slush, so there came about ‘slush fund’.  Over the years it took on a political meaning for dodgy campaign funds, but also exists still as an expression for extra money made on the side.

Phrases.co.uk gives this quote from  The Royal Navy Men’s Advocate , 1757:

Tars whose stomachs are not very squeamish, can bear to paddle their Fingers in stinking slush’, and in the Gentleman’s Magazine of 1756 there appears : ‘he used much slush (the rancid fat of pork) amongst his victuals.’   Victuals is an old fashioned word for food.

That last quote in itself should be enough to get us to stop whingeing to our chefs to have more/less/better variations of burger days. 

This comes from a small, triangular sail that set above the other sails on a square rigger.  It seemed, as it were, to scrape the sky. 

Three sheets to the wind

Now this one has a certain sailing origin, and one which some of us can no doubt relate to.  For those struggling to follow, it means drunk. Not just a little bit tipsy, but the type ricocheting from wall to wall and telling all and sundry that 'I love you, man.' This phrase comes from the sailing terminology that if three sheets were loose, the sail would flap about wildly and the boat would’ lurch about like a drunken sailor’.  It used to be three sheets in the wind, for the sailing pedants out there.  Tipsy was one sheet, and ‘well on the way’ was two sheets to the wind.  (For those working on motoryachts who might make the mistake of thinking a ‘sheet’ is a sail, it’s not, it’s a line, so if the ‘sheet’ is loose, the sail flaps about.  This is the kind of splendidly illogical terminology that sailors delight in tripping motoryacht crew up with, so be wary.)

As the crow flies 

Prior to modern navigational techniques, British ships carried a cage of crows, which would be released to show which direction the closest land was. 

Taken aback

is  also a definite entry for the gnarly CANOE lads, as the words ‘taken aback’ used to mean when the sails of a ship were blown flat against the masts and spars and the boat stopped moving forward.   

Push the boat out

This phrase emerged from acts of generosity, in the act of helping someone push their boat off the shore. The meaning changed over time into acts of generosity in the bar, whereby if someone was told it was time to ‘push the boat out’, it meant it was time for them to buy a round.     In recent years it has changed again; now its common use is to spend extravagantly. 

As for origin of the word 'yacht'?

The Oxford Dictionary explains the origins of yacht as ‘mid 16th cent.: from early modern Dutch jaghte, from jaghtschip ‘fast pirate ship’, from jag(h)t ‘hunting’ + schip ‘ship’'.

The bitter end

The Bitt is a cleat or post on the deck of a ship, for fastening lines. When a line or chain is played out to the bitter end, it means there is no more line to be used. 

Next time: Is 'it's cold enough to freeze the balls off a brass monkey' a naval expression? Why do we say 'clean slate', and 'Davy Jones' Locker?' Please ask a question or tell us which expressions 21 st  century seafarers are adding to the language! 

First published by OnboardOnline on 29th January 2014. Last updated on 04th December 2020.

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Yacht : modern meaning of the term and types of boats

The etymology of the term yacht comes from the Dutch word ‘jacht’, which was used in the past to define the fast sailing vessels used to hunt down pirates along the coasts of northern Europe.

Today, the term ‘yacht’ is used to describe all recreational vessels, whether sailing or motor-powered, with at least one cabin that allows the crew to sleep on board.

There is no established definition for the length of this family of boats, but common usage tends to define a yacht as a vessel longer than 33 feet, or about 10 meters.

As mentioned above, a yacht may be equipped with sailing, motor or mixed propulsion. It can have more than one hull, and if it exceeds 25 meters it also deserves the definition of superyacht . When a yacht is over 50 meters it is called a megayacht and, more and more frequently, when it exceeds 100 meters it becomes a gigayacht.

A yacht normally flies a flag that corresponds to the country where the vessel is registered, not least because, if it does not, it may be captured and taken to the nearest port for ‘flag survey’. As far as international maritime law is concerned, the yacht is considered in all respects to be the territory of the country of the flag it flies, to whose sovereignty the crew is subject.

A yacht flying the flag of a country, unless there is well-founded suspicion of illegal activity, can only be stopped for inspection by the military vessels of that country. When a yacht enters the territorial waters of a country other than that of its flag, it is obliged to fly a courtesy flag.

This is tantamount to a declaration of submission to the navigational laws of the country in which it is sailing.

Sailing and motor-powered yachts

The first major distinction is between sailing yachts and motoryachts. The current worldwide spread of these two families has shifted decisively towards motor yachts, which make up about 75% of the total sailing fleet.

Progress and design have produced many different categories of motor yachts, so let’s discover them together.

Motoryachts

Seen from the stern, a flybridge yacht is often equipped with a “beach club”, a platform that facilitates access to the sea and on which water toys are placed or simply used for diving. A staircase, or even two symmetrical staircases, leads from this platform to the main deck. Sometimes there is a “garage” between these two staircases to house the engine room, a tender and other on-board equipment.

The main deck is characterized by the presence of a helm station, inside of which a large open-space salon houses settees and a galley. The helm station often leads below deck, also known as the lower deck, where the sleeping quarters, or cabins, are normally located.

The foredeck often has a large sundeck bordered by a “bowplate” for hauling anchor. The bow is often “fenced in” by the handrails, which are vital grips for safety at sea.

Let’s get to why a yacht is called a flybridge. The flybridge is an upper deck, open 360 degrees and often covered by a hard-top, a roof usually made of fibreglass. The flybridge usually has an additional helm station to steer from a more panoramic position. An additional galley is often located on the flybridge, as well as additional lounge seating and sun decks.

Open Yachts

An open yacht has no flybridge and its main deck is commonly all open. The helm station can frequently be sheltered by a T-Top. Below deck, depending on the length of the yacht, there are living spaces for the crew which may include dinette, cabins and facilities. Open yachts can be walk-around, i.e. with the possibility for passengers of walking freely around the perimeter of the boat, or they can have an enclosed bow and thus have a raised deck.

A coupe yacht is a yacht without a flybridge, characterized by a sporty design, with the main deck open aft. Very often it has a sunroof and is always equipped with side-decks connecting the stern to the bow. It is a vessel that, depending on its size, is suitable for medium to long-distance cruising.

This is an important type of yacht, which has its origins on the American East Coast where it was used to catch lobsters. It has a romantic, sometimes vintage aesthetic, and is endowed with sinuous lines that, for some, are evocative of the 1950s. Very suitable for cruising and conviviality, thanks also to a large sofa in the cockpit, the lobster is an iconic boat that offers plenty of comfort and space below deck for at least one cabin and one head.

The trawler is essentially a yacht for owners who want to spend a lot of time on board. This is why interior volumes are maximized and the upper deck is always present. Also part of the trawler family are the famous Menorcan boats, inspired by the llaüts of the Menorca island..

Increasingly popular among motor yachts, too, is the multihull, due to its inherent features of stability and capacity. In most cases it is a catamaran designed for long stays at sea.

Sailing yacht

Sailing yachts are vessels where propulsion should mainly rely on the power transmitted by the wind. In the past, sailing yacht engines were low-powered and mainly used for entering and leaving ports, but today, for obvious reasons of practicality and ease of use, they have enough power to make the sailing yacht cruise at a speed at least equal to its theoretical hull speed. This means that sailing yachts can be used efficiently even in the total absence of wind.

A sailing yacht can be rigged in many different ways, these being the most common in modern times:

Sloop : this is the most common rigging on modern boats, characterized by the presence of a single mast with a mainsail and a jib or genoa. Sloop rigging has become popular over the years because it is the easiest to handle with a small crew and also offers the best ease of use/sailing performance ratio.

Cutter : Widely used for long distance sailing, it is characterized by the presence of a mainsail and two jibs rigged on a single mast. Normally the two jibs are a genoa and foresail that are used individually, depending on the weather conditions.

Ketch : this is the most commonly used rig on two-masted sailing yachts, with a mainmast, rigged with a mainsail and genoa, and a mizzenmast, forward of the rudder shaft, rigged with a single mainsail. The splitting of the sails makes this type of yacht suitable for sailing in bad weather.

Yawl : exactly the same as a ketch but with the mizzen mast located aft of the rudder shaft.

Sailing yachts can be monohulls or multihulls, i.e. catamarans or trimarans, but in all cases they can be divided into these categories:

Easy to handle and with plenty of space above and below deck, this type of yacht is normally characterized by an unbalanced length/width ratio favouring the latter, a small sail area and more powerful than average engines.

The interiors are fully equipped and sophisticated, with each cabin often having its own en-suite head.

The deck plan and sailing equipment are simplified, often electrified and minimal.

Cruiser-Racer

This yacht, while still featuring a luxurious and complete interior, also has all the equipment needed for sail fine-tuning and a generous sail area.

This is a category where special attention is paid to both the overall weight of the boat and the hull shape.

The hull lines are in fact designed to enhance performance and, inevitably, this results in a slightly smaller interior than that of pure cruising yachts of the same length.

Racer-Cruiser

The owner who buys this type of yacht has already competed in club competitions and now wants to engage in higher level racing. The hulls are light and can sometimes be made of carbon, and all the sail adjustments are fine-tuned to achieve maximum performance.

The deck plan is definitely designed for crewed racing and the sail area/displacement ratio is unbalanced in favour of the former, making this yacht more difficult to handle with a smaller crew but, conversely, capable of performance similar to a pure racing yacht.

A pure racing yacht is a sailing yacht built exclusively for racing. Free from any commercial constraints, it is built according to the type of race to be competed in and, above all, the rating to be obtained. The interiors of this boat are minimal. This yacht is capable of planing and sailing upwind at very low wind angles, but is almost never used for recreational purposes.

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Definition of yacht noun from the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

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Meaning of yacht in English

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• They spent their annual vacation on a chartered yacht in the Caribbean .
• He spent three days adrift on his yacht.
• His eyes were fixed on the distant yacht.
• If they can afford a yacht, they must be rolling in it.
• She sailed around the world single-handed in her yacht.
• cabin cruiser
• dragon boat
• rubber dinghy

yacht | Intermediate English

Examples of yacht, collocations with yacht.

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Translations of yacht

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a servant or someone who behaves like one by obeying someone else's orders or by doing unpleasant work for them

Renowned and celebrated (Words meaning ‘famous’)

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• Nautical Sayings: Exploring the Fascinating World of Maritime Language

Ahoy there, fellow adventurers of the sea! Whether you're an experienced sailor or just someone fascinated by the world of nautical adventures, you've probably come across some intriguing and often perplexing maritime sayings. In this comprehensive article, we'll dive deep into the ocean of nautical sayings, yacht word origins, boating sayings, and the rich tapestry of nautical slang that has shaped the language of the high seas.

Setting Sail with Nautical Sayings

Ahoy, matey.

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Charting the Course of Nautical Language 

Before we delve into specific nautical sayings, let's navigate through the history of maritime language. The sea has always been a source of inspiration for unique expressions, and understanding the evolution of this language is key to appreciating its richness.

Maritime language is a dynamic blend of influences from various cultures, including English, Dutch, and even French. We'll journey through time to uncover how these linguistic influences shaped the nautical lexicon we know today.

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The maritime world is a treasure trove of fascinating expressions related to knots and ropes. From "tying the knot" to "left in the lurch," we'll unravel the meanings behind these captivating sayings.

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Discovering Yacht Word Origins

The yacht: a luxurious icon .

Yachts epitomize elegance and luxury on the water. But have you ever wondered where the term "yacht" itself comes from? Let's set sail on a journey through time to explore its origins.

The word "yacht" has a fascinating history that dates back to the early days of sailing. We'll trace its evolution from humble beginnings to the opulent vessels we associate with yachts today.

Yacht or Jacht: A Linguistic Odyssey 

Did you know that "yacht" is closely related to the Dutch word "jacht"? We'll uncover the linguistic connection between these two words and how it has influenced modern yacht culture.

The Dutch influence on yacht design and terminology is profound. We'll delve into how Dutch shipbuilders and explorers played a pivotal role in shaping the yacht industry.

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Yachting isn't just about boats; it's a cultural phenomenon with a rich history. During the 19th century, the "Golden Age of Yachting" saw a surge in yacht building and racing. We'll explore this period and its impact on yacht word origins.

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Smooth sailing ahead.

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Boating isn't always smooth sailing. Sometimes, sailors must "weather the storm." We'll examine the origin of this phrase and its enduring relevance to the maritime world.

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Aye, aye, captain .

Nautical slang is a language all its own, and "aye, aye, captain" is one of its most recognizable phrases. But what does it really mean, and why is it used so frequently on ships?

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Shipshape and bristol fashion .

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In the same boat .

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By and large: a nautical measurement .

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Boating Phrases and Sailor Jargon

"know the ropes": mastering the art of sailing.

To "know the ropes" means to be skilled and knowledgeable. We'll sail through the history of this saying and its significance for sailors.

"The Whole Nine Yards": Nautical or Not?

Is "the whole nine yards" a nautical phrase? We'll unravel this linguistic mystery and see if it has nautical origins or not.

Sailing Expressions and Seafaring Terms

"batten down the hatches": preparing for a storm.

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Nautical Words and Phrases: A Sailor's Lexicon

Nautical sayings: the ultimate lexicon .

Summarizing our exploration, we'll compile a comprehensive list of some of the most intriguing nautical words and phrases that have left their mark on the English language.

As we sail back to the shore of this captivating journey through nautical sayings and maritime language, it's clear that the sea has not only inspired adventurers but also enriched our vocabulary with colorful expressions. From "ahoy, matey" to "the whole nine yards," each saying carries a piece of nautical history that continues to resonate with us today.

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When Were Yachts Invented? Uncovering the History of Luxury Boats

Yachts have been around for centuries and have long been associated with luxury and status.

But where did these boats come from and how have they evolved over the years? In this article, we’ll uncover the fascinating history of yachts and explore how they have been used by different cultures for centuries.

From their origins to the different classes of yachts, we’ll look at the various uses people have found for these luxury boats and how they have become a symbol of status and wealth.

We’ll also explore the world of yacht racing and even take a look at some of the most luxurious yachts ever built.

So, if you’re ready to discover the history of yachts, then let’s get started!.

Table of Contents

Short Answer

Yachts were invented in the late 17th century in the Netherlands, when wealthy citizens began building large wooden sailing vessels for leisure activities.

The first recorded yacht race took place in the Netherlands in 1663, and the popularity of sailing for pleasure soon spread to other parts of Europe.

The origin of the word ‘yacht’ comes from the Dutch word jacht, meaning ‘hunt.

The Origin of Yachts

Yachts have been around since the late 16th century, when they were first used for fishing and transportation.

However, it wasn’t until the early 1700s that they began to be used for recreational activities.

This was mainly due to the increased wealth of the upper classes, who had the resources to acquire and maintain these luxury vessels.

Initially, the yachts were powered by sail, but later they were equipped with steam engines.

These early yachts were large and luxurious, and quickly became a status symbol among the wealthy.

As the popularity of yachts grew, so did their variety.

Different types of yachts were developed for different purposes, such as racing, vacationing, and cruising.

Yachts were also built with different materials, such as wood, steel, and fiberglass.

Today, yachts are still popular among the wealthy, and have become more advanced than ever before.

They can be equipped with modern amenities, such as air conditioning , internet, and satellite TV.

Yachts are also used for a variety of different activities, from racing to vacationing, and remain a popular symbol of wealth and luxury.

Early Uses of Yachts

Yachts have a long and rich history, with the first recreational sailing yacht believed to have been invented in the late 16th century.

Originally, yachts were used for fishing and transportation, as well as for leisure activities.

The earliest yachts were specialized vessels that served as fishing boats or for transportation.

They were typically small and had limited storage capacity.

As time went on, the vessels were improved and larger sizes were developed.

By the early 1700s, yachts were being used for leisure activities, such as sailing and racing.

The popularity of yachts grew in the 1700s, as they were seen as a status symbol among the wealthy.

Initially, the yachts were owned and operated by the elite and were used for recreational sailing.

At the same time, yachts began to be used for racing, with some of the earliest yacht races taking place in England.

Over the centuries, yachts have evolved into a variety of shapes and sizes, from luxurious mega-yachts to more utilitarian vessels.

Today, yachts are used for a variety of purposes, from vacationing to racing and remain a popular symbol of wealth and leisure.

Yachts as a Status Symbol

Since they first appeared in the late 16th century, yachts have been a symbol of luxury and wealth.

For centuries, the wealthy have used yachts as a way to show off their status and power.

They have also been used as a way to travel in style and enjoy the finer things in life.

In the 1700s and 1800s, the wealthy began to build larger and more ornate yachts, often with multiple levels and masts.

These vessels were often seen as a way to flaunt one’s wealth and status, and were used to travel in style and enjoy the finer things in life.

Today, yachts are still seen as a symbol of luxury and status.

They are often used to host parties, enjoy vacations, and even engage in racing activities.

Yachts of all sizes, shapes, and capabilities are available, allowing those with the right budget to enjoy a luxurious lifestyle on the open seas.

The rise of luxury yachting has also created a market for high-end services, such as yacht charters, private chefs, and concierge services.

Those who own yachts can also benefit from a wide range of amenities, from spas and gyms to fully-stocked bars and private dining areas.

Overall, yachts remain a symbol of wealth and status, and have evolved from simple fishing and transportation vessels into luxurious vessels that can be used for recreational activities.

They have become increasingly popular with the wealthy and remain a popular choice for those who want to enjoy the finer things in life.

Varieties of Yachts

Since their invention, yachts have evolved into a wide variety of shapes and sizes.

Depending on their purpose and intended use, there are now many different types of yachts available.

From luxury vessels to racing boats, there is a yacht for every type of seafaring enthusiast.

The most common type of yacht is a motor yacht, which refers to any boat with an internal combustion engine that is used for recreation and leisure.

These yachts come in a variety of sizes and styles, from small pleasure boats to large, luxurious vessels.

Sailboats are also a popular type of yacht, and are used for both racing and leisure.

Sailboats come in a range of sizes, from small dinghies to large, multi-hulled boats.

For those who prefer the speed and agility of a powerboat, there are plenty of options to choose from.

These boats come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from small runabouts to large, powerful speedboats.

Finally, there are racing yachts , which are designed for speed and performance.

These boats are typically larger and more powerful than other types of yachts, and are usually built for the specific purpose of competing in official races.

No matter what type of yacht you choose, you can be sure that they will provide an unforgettable experience.

Whether youre looking for something luxurious or a boat thats built for speed, yachts have something to offer everyone.

Popular Uses of Yachts

Yachts have been used for a variety of purposes since their invention in the 16th century.

Originally, yachts were utilized as a means of transportation and fishing, but as the centuries passed, yachts became more closely associated with luxury and leisure activities.

Today, yachts are known as a symbol of wealth and are used for a variety of purposes.

One of the most popular uses of yachts is vacationing.

Many people choose to rent or charter a yacht for a week or more and spend their time exploring the open seas.

Yachts offer plenty of space, comfort, and amenities that make them ideal for vacationing, whether its a family trip or a romantic getaway.

Yachts are also popular for hosting events, such as weddings, birthdays, corporate events, and more.

Yachts provide a unique venue for any event, with plenty of space, beautiful views, and the ability to travel to different locations.

Yachts are also used for racing.

Yacht racing is a popular sport, and many people choose to compete in races or just enjoy the thrill of sailing.

Yacht racing has been around for centuries and is still a popular sport today.

Lastly, many people choose to invest in a yacht as a status symbol.

Yachts have become a symbol of wealth, and many people purchase a yacht as a way to show off their success.

Yachts are a great way to make a statement, and they are also a great investment.

Overall, yachts have a wide variety of uses, from vacationing to racing and more.

Whether you’re looking for a luxurious way to travel, a unique venue for an event, or a status symbol, yachts are an excellent choice.

Racing Yachts

Racing yachts have been a mainstay of the luxury boat industry since the late 19th century.

Yacht races have been held all around the world, with the most famous being the Americas Cup.

Originally started in 1851, the Americas Cup is the oldest active trophy in international sport and has been held every four years since then.

Yacht racing is a thrilling and competitive sport that requires skill, knowledge, and endurance, making it a popular activity for the wealthy elite.

Yacht racing requires an incredibly well crafted vessel and an experienced crew.

Modern racing yachts are designed for maximum speed, efficiency and maneuverability.

The hulls are often made from lightweight materials such as carbon fiber, kevlar, or aluminum and the sails are made from highly specialized fabrics.

Racing yachts are often equipped with the latest navigational and communication technology, allowing them to remain in contact with their home port and other vessels during a race.

Yacht racing has become a popular spectator sport, with events being held in some of the most beautiful locations around the world.

From the Mediterranean to the Caribbean, yacht racing has become a spectacle of speed and skill, with crews pushing their vessels to the limit in the pursuit of victory.

For those looking to experience a thrilling and luxurious activity, yacht racing is an activity not to be missed.

With its rich history, intense competition, and beautiful setting, yacht racing is sure to be an unforgettable experience.

Luxury Yachts

Luxury yachts have always been a symbol of wealth and leisure, beginning with their invention in the late 16th century.

Yachts were originally used as fishing boats and transportation vessels, but by the early 1700s, seafaring aristocrats began to use them for leisure activities.

It wasnt long before yachts began to be seen as a status symbol, and it wasnt long before they were in the possession of many of the wealthiest people in the world.

Today, luxury yachts are used for a variety of activities, from vacationing and cruising to racing and fishing.

They come in all shapes and sizes, from the classic sailing yacht to the sleek, modern motor yacht.

They can be equipped with all the comforts of home, from luxurious spas and state-of-the-art entertainment systems to private helipads and expansive decks.

No matter the size or style, luxury yachts have always been a symbol of wealth and leisure, and that is unlikely to change anytime soon.

Whether youre looking for a luxurious vacation aboard a private yacht or a chance to participate in a race, luxury yachts will always be a popular choice.

Final Thoughts

From humble beginnings as a simple fishing and transportation vessel, yachts have come a long way to become a status symbol of wealth and leisure.

The variety of yachts today is astounding, from the luxury vessels of the wealthy to the race boats of the daring.

Yachts can be used for everything from vacationing to racing, and remain a popular symbol of wealth and leisure.

Now that you know the history of yachts, why not take a closer look at the different kinds of yachts out there and find the one that’s right for you?.

James Frami

At the age of 15, he and four other friends from his neighborhood constructed their first boat. He has been sailing for almost 30 years and has a wealth of knowledge that he wants to share with others.

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a vessel used for private cruising, racing, or other noncommercial purposes.

to sail, voyage, or race in a yacht.

Compare Meanings

Click for a side-by-side comparison of meanings. Use the word comparison feature to learn the differences between similar and commonly confused words.

Origin of yacht

Other words from yacht.

• yachty, adjective
• su·per·yacht, noun

Words that may be confused with yacht

• barge , boat , canoe , cruise ship , sailboat , ship , yacht

Words Nearby yacht

• Yablonovy Mountains
• Yablonovyy Range
• yacht chair

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2024

How to use yacht in a sentence

As City News explained it, the bribes were paid not only in cash but through rugs, antiques, furniture, yacht club fees, boat repairs and more.

In Ashburn, Snyder is always lurking in spirit, even if he is on his 305-foot yacht somewhere in the Aegean.

Driving across country in a gigantic land yacht —with its crushed-velour seats and faux wood siding—was more practical than a two-door hot rod.

Host Jason Moore chats with experts who share tips harvested from their real-life experiences, such as a couple who paid off their $70,000 debt to travel full time and a woman who left her corporate job to work on a yacht .

Until Thursday, when federal agents escorted him off a 150-foot yacht moored in Long Island Sound, the word often used to describe Steve Bannon was “irrelevant.”

Instead the money allegedly was spent on luxury cars and a yacht club membership, among other things.

Loeb owns a $100 million penthouse on Central Park West and a $50 million yacht .

Solaire has set up charging capabilities at a project it built at a yacht club in Massachusetts, for example.

On my way back into town, I walked by the fortress of tents surrounding the harbor, readying for the yacht show.

Newly-minted Londoner, Lindsay Lohan, is currently chilling out on a yacht in Italy.

I heard her say to one of the servants once that my father had been lost on a yacht , and that he was oh, ever such a handsome man.

He owned a 54-ton yacht named the Opal, and attributed the wonderful health he enjoyed to his numerous sea voyages.

Another yacht had started from the old boathouse at about the time our friends and their new-fangled craft got under way.

Caermarthen ordered out his wonderful yacht , and hastened to complain to the King, who was then at Loo.

The yacht had long turned the head of the island and was beating down alongshore in the eastern bay.

British Dictionary definitions for yacht

/ ( jɒt ) /

a vessel propelled by sail or power, used esp for pleasure cruising, racing, etc

short for sand yacht , ice yacht

(intr) to sail or cruise in a yacht

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

In this article, we explain the definition, history and origin of the word yacht, and break down some of the more common types of yachts along with various styles and sizes.

Yacht Definition & Origin

The word yacht comes from the Dutch word “jacht”, which means to hunt, and refers to the quick and lightweight sailboats the Dutch navy used to pursue pirates and other enemies in shallow waters. Today, the word takes on a very different meaning. While there is no strict definition of the word today, a yacht is generally considered as a boat used for pleasure, whether you’re cruising open waters, racing or island-hopping for the weekend. Typically, we consider a boat to be a yacht if it has an overnight cabin onboard, is more than 33 feet long, and generally looks nicer than your average vessel.

Pleasure boats have been around for hundreds of years, which is no surprise when you consider our options for transportation around that time. Without planes, cars, bikes or scooters, humans turned to the one form of transportation they knew well for pleasure – the ship.

Sailing Yacht History

Sailing yachts have been a thing since at least the beginning of the 1660s in Europe, when King James of England commissioned a sailing yacht for his son Henry, the Prince of Wales. But it was Charles II, the Kind of Scotland, who brought the term “yacht” into the mainstream after spending time exiled in the Netherlands. Once Charles got home, he began commissioning royal yachts left and right.

Steam Yacht History

Steam Yachts also have quite the history, which started as massive and luxurious sailing yachts with steam auxiliary engines. These yachts were much larger, and carried full crews complete with a cook, captain, engineer, stewards and deck hands. By the late 1700s, screw propellers were installed and the engines became far more efficient. Eventually, compound engines came about and persisted until the internal combustion took over.

Power Yacht History

Powerboats with 4-stroke gas engines were first developed by Nicolaus Otto and Gottlieb Daimler in 1876. Then in the 1900s, diesel engines became the more popular option because of their lower cost and improved reliability.

Yacht Types

Today, yachts fall into one of two general categories – sailing yachts and motor yachts.

Sailing Yachts

A sailing yacht is a leisure craft that relies on its sails for the primary method of movement, made from natural, synthetic or carbon fibers. Sailing yachts are split into two main categories: cruisers and raisers.

Cruising Yachts

A cruising yacht is designed for comfort above anything else. These yachts are ideal for overnight and lengthy journeys, typically equipped with all the comforts of home, including full kitchens (galleys), bathrooms (heads) and beds. They’re also designed to be slightly easier to maintain.

At the smaller end, we have what’s called as a “trailer sailer”. These yachts are generally shorter than 25 feet, and can be pulled by the average car. But anything shorter than 33 feet is considered a small sailing yacht. The next level is 33-45 feet, referred to as near-shore yachts. Offshore yachts are the largest category, including vessels larger than 45 feet.

Racing Yachts

A racing yacht is designed with performance top of mind, rather than comfort. World Sailing, the governing body for the sport of international sailing, recognizes 11 different classes of sailing yachts, but each share some general characteristics.

On a racing yacht, aerodynamics is prioritized. These yachts come in a variety of shapes and weights, but performance is the underlying motivation for all. Similar to aerodynamics but underwater, hydrodynamically efficient hulls allow boats to pull through the water with minimal drag or extra motion. Finally, for peak performance, these sailing yachts typically use full-battened Kevlar or carbon fiber sails.

Motor Yachts

Motor yachts come in all shapes and sizes, built with a variety of different materials. Generally speaking, they range from 30-130 feet in length, but there are superyachts out there exceeding 500 feet (that’s over 150 metres!).

The hull of a motor yachts comes in three basic styles. A yacht with a full-displacement hull moves the water up and away, creating waves. These boats have the potential to be plenty powerful, but their speed is limited. Semi-displacement hulls are slightly faster, because they’re able to partially rise above the water. Last are the yachts with a planing hull. These yachts are the fastest, because of a flat underside and enough power to lift them onto the surface of the water.

The majority of modern motor yachts have at least one diesel engine. A boat with two engines is certainly more expensive, but well worth it when you consider the reliability and increased handling/performance.

When it comes to motor yacht styles, there are many. Here’s a brief introduction to a few different motor yacht styles:

• Sport Motor Yacht : These powerful crafts are built with a semi-displacement and planing hulls, making them fast boats great for weekend adventures and short trips.
• Trawler Motor Yacht : A trawler is known for its more traditional style with a displacement hull, designed for medium distance passage-making.
• Cruising Motor Yacht : A cruising yacht is built for comfortable longer distance travel, equipped with a displacement hull.
• Expedition Yacht : Similar to a cruising motor yacht, expedition yachts are built with a displacement hull for long distances, but these crafts specialize in passage-making in remote areas.
• Mega Luxury Yachts : The mega luxury yachts is what you see and hear about on TV and in magazines. They’re hundred of feet long, designed for dozens of family and friends, and reserved for the super-rich.
• Sports Fisherman Yacht : These yachts have semi-displacement or planing hulls for quick fishing trips where you need to be able to move well. On a sports fisherman yacht, there will also be extra space for fishing gear and large fish.
• Lobster Yacht : A lobster yacht is similar to but quicker than a trawler, built with a semi-displacement or planing hull. These yachts get their name from their unique style – looking like classic Maine lobster boats.

If you’re looking for a new yacht, browse our current listings of sailing and motor yachts at Van Isle Marina. You can also visit us in Sidney at 2320 Harbour Road to see our stock in person, and our staff will be happy to help you out.

Blog Headlines

• What is a Yacht? (History, Types of Yachts, Styles and Sizes) January 15, 2024 - 10:35 am

• Essential Off-Season Haul-Out Services for Your Boat August 10, 2023 - 4:34 pm

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From Sailors to Socialites: The Evolution of Yacht Culture

Table of Contents

History of Yacht Culture

To uncover the origin and evolution of yacht culture, delve into this section discussing its history. Gain insight into the sails-to-socialites narrative by learning about the origins of yachts, and exploring the development of yachting as a competitive sport.

Origins of Yachts

The roots of the yacht culture date back to the 17th century. Rich merchants and aristocrats began buying luxurious boats, known as yachts, for leisure and sailing races. In 1661, King Charles II of England commissioned a pleasure yacht. 1815 saw the first official yacht racing event in England, which became trend among the wealthy.

The America’s Cup race in 1851 introduced sleeker, faster yachts with advanced design.

The word “yacht” is from the Dutch “jacht” , meaning “hunt”. It was originally used for light vessels that sailed quickly to catch pirates and smugglers.

The biggest privately owned yacht in the world is owned by Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich . It is called Eclipse and is 162.5 meters long.

It looks like yacht owners are taking their leisurely sailing to another level with cutthroat competitions.

Development of Yachting as a Competitive Sport

Sailing has been a thing since ages ago, but it wasn’t until the late 1700s that yachting as a competitive sport started to emerge. Here’s a look at its development.

Back in 1660 , the first yacht club was founded in Cork, Ireland. King George II built on this by hosting schooner races in 1720 . The America’s Cup made its debut in 1815 and the IYRU was formed in 1898 . Finally, yachting was included in the Olympic Games in 1924 .

Other folks have different opinions about when yachting got competitive. In England in the 1800s, people would race their fishing vessels between harbors. This led to competitions between those with private sailing ships.

No matter how it began, yachting turned into a global phenomenon. It still has the competitive edge today with events like the America’s Cup and Olympic sailing. Plus, owning a yacht is even better with a friend who has one.

The Rise of Yachting as a Leisure Activity

To understand how yachting became a popular leisure activity, delve into ‘The Rise of Yachting as a Leisure Activity’ with ‘Yacht Clubs and Social Status’ and ‘The Golden Era of Yacht Parties’ as solution briefly.

Yacht Clubs and Social Status

Yacht Clubs are now a sign of luxury and high social standing. These exclusive clubs offer a lavish way to explore the sea. Membership can be limited, and pricey. But they provide VIP access to events like regattas and ocean races, as well as a unique boat community.

Yacht Clubs are more than just boats. They offer fine dining, spas, bars, and even accommodation – a lifestyle for those who can afford it. Yacht owners show off their boats with pride and host amazing parties.

Yacht racing is becoming popular among members. This sport needs top-notch team coordination and the thrill of competing with other experts from around the world.

To get the prestige and benefits of a yacht club , it could be worth investing in a top-notch boat. Fractional ownership is a good option. This involves multiple owners sharing maintenance costs.

The Golden Era of Yacht Parties

The affluent class in the early 20th century became infatuated with yachting parties, triggering a new era of leisure. These parties were unlike traditional social gatherings – they took place on elite vessels, with music, food and drinks flowing. This set a standard of luxury that lives on today.

Shipbuilders created sleeker, more intricate yacht designs for the growing demand. And boat races, regattas and other events featured the most expensive boats ever made.

Yachting now has little resemblance to its earlier days. Luxuries like on-board spas, Jacuzzis, gourmet kitchens, and cinemas make it an all-in-one experience.

Anyone can enjoy this unique escapade with excellent service providers and tour operators offering high-end cruises to places like Monaco and St. Tropez. But if you really crave exclusivity, try the yacht club on a private island – if you can afford it!

The Current State of Yacht Culture

To understand the current state of yacht culture and to look ahead into the industry’s future, delve into exciting sub-sections – modern yacht design and technology, and the future of yacht culture encompassing sustainability and accessibility.

Modern Yacht Design and Technology

Yachting has been revolutionized by modern design and tech. The latest yachts boast sleek, contemporary looks and lightweight materials like carbon fiber. Plus, they’re packed with high-tech features like 3D printing, CAD technology, composite materials, and automated systems.

Onboard, you’ll find everything from swimming pools to helicopter pads, cinemas, full-sized spas, and grand pianos. Plus, new eco-friendly tech helps reduce their environmental footprint.

So don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to experience a luxurious voyage with the latest in yacht design and tech. Book your next journey now!

The Future of Yacht Culture: Sustainability and Accessibility

Yacht culture’s future is linked with sustainability and accessibility. People have become aware of the environmental impact of their actions, including those in the yachting industry. Technology now makes it easier to be eco-friendly while still having a luxurious experience. More people are getting to experience yacht culture due to increased accessibility.

Sustainability is making great progress. For example, Oceanco recently launched a superyacht with an innovative electric propulsion system. Technology is shaping the future of yachting in terms of sustainability.

Accessibility has become a priority in yacht culture. People want to share their experiences and allow others to join them. Many companies now offer budget-friendly charters.

Exclusivity was once everything, but not anymore. The tragic sinking of RMS Titanic in 1912 highlighted this – there were not enough lifeboats, and only wealthy passengers had access to them. This event has improved safety aboard ships.

In conclusion, yacht culture’s future with sustainability and accessibility aims to improve socio-economic equality, environmental conservation, and tourism. It is providing job opportunities and other benefits for indigenous communities around the world. It also caters hospitality services for all classes. From Monaco to Ibiza, yacht culture’s destinations have something for everyone.

The Evolution of Yacht Culture Across the Globe

To understand the evolution of yacht culture across the globe, delve into yachting in Europe, North America, and Asia. From the Mediterranean to the Baltic, Europe has a rich history of yachting. In North America, yachting is prominent in popular destinations such as the Caribbean and New England. Meanwhile, Asia’s yacht culture has burgeoned in countries like Dubai and Phuket.

Yachting in Europe: From the Mediterranean to the Baltic

Yachting is evolving across Europe! From the Mediterranean to the Baltic, there’s diverse scenery for both competitive sailing and leisure cruising.

In search of beauty, yachtsmen have gone to explore exotic Aegean islands, Croatia’s stunning coastline, and Finland’s crystal blue waters. During summer, the northern sea’s chilly winds offer a great challenge for sailors .

The Amalfi Coast in Italy is gaining popularity. Here, picturesque hillside vineyards and white sandy beaches create a memorable backdrop. Plus, Sardinia is a great place to discover culture and pristine landscapes.

The Azimut Benetti Group based in Viareggio is one of the world’s largest yacht builders . They even make boats for celebrities like Jay-Z and Jennifer López!

Yachting is now America’s favorite pastime – from the Caribbean to New England.

Yachting in North America: From the Caribbean to New England

Yachting fans in North America can explore various lush spots. From the Caribbean’s warmth and culture to New England’s scenic regions. The table below shows the popular sites, amenities, and marina fees for yachting in North America.

There are also many unique, undiscovered places . From Maine’s small towns to Canada’s rugged coasts. In ancient times, boats were mainly used for transportation and fishing. It wasn’t until the mid-19th century that recreational boating became famous among affluent Americans seeking new experiences in nature. Nowadays, yachts are seen as status symbols by many prosperous individuals in North America and beyond.

Whether you’re staying in lavish waterfront accommodations or sailing your own vessel, yachting culture will keep changing – as technology advances and people’s lifestyle preferences change. And if you want to feel rich and famous on a budget, Phuket is the place for you.

Yachting in Asia: From Dubai to Phuket

The yachting scene in Asia is booming! Dubai and Phuket are two of the most popular spots for yacht enthusiasts. Dubai’s marinas have some of the most luxurious superyachts in the world. Phuket’s bays are filled with secret coves and exclusive beaches.

Singapore is now a hub for luxury yacht events and exhibitions. Bali’s lush green scenery and pristine beaches draw many yachts. Japan’s Okinawa archipelago is a hidden gem. It’s clear waters are home to coral reefs and marine life. Fishing villages give an insight into local culture.

Consult cruising guides or professional yacht service providers before setting sail. Safety should always be a priority. Rich people can have problems too – that’s what yacht culture proves .

Conclusion: The Role of Yacht Culture in Today’s Society.

Yacht culture is key in today’s luxurious lifestyles. From its roots in naval exploration to sailing for fun, and now being a symbol of affluence, the evolution of yachting is remarkable. It’s become popular as a status symbol and owning one is connected to prestige, exclusivity, and access to the high life. This trend looks set to stay in the 21st century.

Yachting is popular for those with the funds, and it’s not just sailing anymore; it’s a scene, with networking, cocktail parties, and unique events on the vessels.

Yachting wouldn’t be what it is without centuries of nautical advances . Explorers sought adventure and knowledge, such as Columbus’ 1492 voyage to America . Navigational systems cut travel time across oceans. Yacht culture has moved from being used for transportation to being a representation of wealth and luxury .

It’s a testament to human ingenuity and creativity to adapt and make new experiences on land and sea.

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What does the noun yacht mean?

There is one meaning in OED's entry for the noun yacht . See ‘Meaning & use’ for definition, usage, and quotation evidence.

Entry status

OED is undergoing a continuous programme of revision to modernize and improve definitions. This entry has not yet been fully revised.

How common is the noun yacht ?

How is the noun yacht pronounced, british english, u.s. english, where does the noun yacht come from.

Earliest known use

The earliest known use of the noun yacht is in the late 1500s.

OED's earliest evidence for yacht is from before 1584, in the writing of S. Borough.

yacht is a borrowing from Dutch.

Etymons: Dutch jaght(e .

Nearby entries

• yabber, v. 1841–
• yabbering, n. 1839–
• yabble, n. 1827–
• yabble, v. 1808–
• yabbler, n. 1901–
• yabby, n. 1887–
• yabby, v. 1941–
• yabbying, n. 1934–
• yabu, n. 1753–
• yacca, n. 1843–
• yacht, n. a1584–
• yacht, v. 1836–
• yacht basin, n. 1929–
• yacht broker, n. 1882–
• yachtdom, n. 1901–
• yachter, n. 1828–
• yachtery, n. 1861–
• yachtian, n. 1842–
• yachtie, n. 1874–
• yachting, n. 1836–
• yachting, adj. 1847–

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Meaning & use

Pronunciation, compounds & derived words, entry history for yacht, n..

yacht, n. was first published in 1921; not yet revised.

yacht, n. was last modified in July 2023.

Revision of the OED is a long-term project. Entries in oed.com which have not been revised may include:

• corrections and revisions to definitions, pronunciation, etymology, headwords, variant spellings, quotations, and dates;
• new senses, phrases, and quotations which have been added in subsequent print and online updates.

Revisions and additions of this kind were last incorporated into yacht, n. in July 2023.

Earlier versions of this entry were published in:

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Yacht Dreaming

The History of Yacht Clubs: A Deep Dive into the Origins and Evolution of this Timeless Tradition

The Birth of Yacht Clubs: How It All Began

The origin of yachting.

Boating, in general, has been around for centuries. Sailors have been traversing the high seas for as long as one can remember. However, yachting, a more leisurely version of sailing, is a relatively new phenomenon. It originated in the early 17th century when wealthy British aristocrats began to purchase and build pleasure craft for their amusement.

The Formation of the First Yacht Clubs

The first yacht club was formed in the United Kingdom in 1720. The Royal Cork Yacht Club was established by William O’Brien, the 9th Lord Inchiquin. The club was originally known as the Water Club of the Harbour of Cork and was created to organize yacht races and promote sailing among the wealthy elite. It was the first of many yacht clubs to be established throughout the world.

The Evolution of Yacht Clubs: How They Became the Social Institutions We Know Today

Yacht clubs in the 19th century.

During the 19th century, yacht clubs became social institutions that were frequented by the wealthy elite. They were no longer just places to organize races but also served as places for people to socialize and network. Yacht clubs were also used as a means of showing off one’s wealth and status.

Yacht Clubs in the 20th Century

In the 20th century, yacht clubs continued to evolve. They became more inclusive and began to welcome members from all walks of life. They also became more environmentally conscious and started to focus on promoting sustainable boating practices.

The Role of Yacht Clubs Today: A Modern-Day Perspective

Community and camaraderie.

Today, yacht clubs serve as places for boaters to come together and share their love of the water. They provide a sense of community and camaraderie that is difficult to find anywhere else. Many yacht clubs organize social events and activities, such as regattas and fishing tournaments, that bring members together.

Education and Safety

Yacht clubs also play an important role in educating boaters and promoting safety on the water. Many clubs offer sailing and boating courses, as well as safety training, to ensure that their members are knowledgeable and responsible boaters. They also provide resources, such as weather and tide information, to help boaters stay safe while out on the water.

Advocacy and Conservation

Finally, yacht clubs are important advocates for the boating community and the environment. They work to protect the rights of boaters and promote sustainable boating practices. Many clubs also participate in environmental initiatives, such as beach cleanups and habitat restoration projects, to help preserve and protect the waters that they love.

Conclusion: The Timeless Tradition of Yacht Clubs

Yacht clubs have come a long way since their humble beginnings in the 17th century. They have evolved from exclusive social clubs for the wealthy elite to inclusive community organizations that promote boating education, safety, and conservation. Today, they serve as a testament to the enduring allure of the water and the sense of community and camaraderie that it inspires.

Will Go Fishing Brainly: An Emotional Essay on the Joys and Challenges of Fishing

Fishing in Victoria: A Guide to the Best Spots and Techniques

© 2024 Yacht Dreaming

The Spring Equinox Is Here. What Does That Mean?

Spring is almost here—officially, at least.

The vernal equinox arrives on Tuesday, marking the start of the spring season for the Northern Hemisphere.

But what does that actually mean? Here’s what to know about how we split up the year using the Earth’s orbit.

What is the equinox?

As the Earth travels around the sun, it does so at an angle.

For most of the year, the Earth’s axis is tilted either toward or away from the sun. That means the sun’s warmth and light fall unequally on the northern and southern halves of the planet.

During the equinox, the Earth’s axis and its orbit line up so that both hemispheres get an equal amount of sunlight.

The word equinox comes from two Latin words meaning equal and night. That’s because on the equinox, day and night last almost the same amount of time—though one may get a few extra minutes, depending on where you are on the planet.

The Northern Hemisphere’s spring—or vernal—equinox can land between March 19 and 21, depending on the year. Its fall—or autumnal—equinox can land between Sept. 21 and 24.

What is the solstice?

The solstices mark the times during the year when the Earth is at its most extreme tilt toward or away from the sun. This means the hemispheres are getting very different amounts of sunlight—and days and nights are at their most unequal.

During the Northern Hemisphere’s summer solstice, the upper half of the earth is tilted in toward the sun, creating the longest day and shortest night of the year. This solstice falls between June 20 and 22.

Meanwhile, at the winter solstice, the Northern Hemisphere is leaning away from the sun—leading to the shortest day and longest night of the year. The winter solstice falls between December 20 and 23.

What’s the difference between meteorological and astronomical seasons?

These are just two different ways to carve up the year.

Meteorological seasons are defined by the weather. They break down the year into three-month seasons based on annual temperature cycles. By that calendar, spring starts on March 1, summer on June 1, fall on Sept. 1 and winter on Dec. 1.

Astronomical seasons depend on how the Earth moves around the sun.

Equinoxes mark the start of spring and autumn. Solstices kick off summer and winter.

—The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Science and Educational Media Group. The AP is solely responsible for all content.

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7 Facts About Ramadan—Islam’s Holiest Month

By: Tharik Hussain

Published: March 8, 2024

Ramadan is the ninth month in the Islamic calendar when Muslims across the globe fast during the hours of daylight every single day. Ramadan is the holiest month of the year for most of the world’s two billion or so Muslims, but why is this month so revered, and why does it include fasting? Here are seven facts to explain the significance of Ramadan and its practices.

1. Ramadan was important before Islam.

Ramadan is said to have been an important and holy month for Arabs long before the advent of Islam ; in this month, local feuds and warring would stop as a period of uninterrupted peace was observed during which the more pious would retreat to temples, caves and other spaces to meditate. According to Islamic tradition (known as hadiths ), Ramadan was also the month when God revealed the scriptures to Abraham (Ibrahim to Muslims); the Torah to Moses (Musa); the Psalms to David (Dawud) and the Gospel to Jesus (Isa).

2. Ramadan includes 'The Night of Power.' 

Muslims believe it was during Ramadan in A.D. 610 that God first spoke to the Prophet Muhammad. According to Islamic tradition, during that Ramadan Muhammad retreated—as he often did in the month— to a small cave on the outskirts of Makkah called Hira to meditate and reflect in seclusion. Then on one of the odd nights in the last 10 days he heard a voice demanding he ‘read’ (the meaning of the word iqra ) and thus began the Qur’anic revelations. The verses from that night are found in the 96th chapter of the Qur’an known as Surah al Alaq . The night the revelations began is called Lay lat ul Qadr, orThe Night of Power, and the Qur’an says it is “better than a thousand months” (97:3), which is why Muslims spend the last 10 days of Ramadan “seeking” it out in the hope they will be in a state of worship, reflection and meditation on The Night of Power.  

3. Ramadan starts and ends on different dates every year.

The start of Ramadan falls on a different date every year in the Gregorian Calendar. This is because the Islamic calendar follows the literal cycles of the moon, and each month only begins when the new moon is sighted. As a result, the exact start of Ramadan is not confirmed until the day before, though an approximate start date is calculated in advance. It is the same for the end of the month, after which Muslims across the globe celebrate the festival of Eid al-Fitr .

4. Fasting is intended to elevate the spirit.

Although popularly seen as a fast from food and drink, Muslims also abstain from all sexual activity and vulgar behaviour during their fast. Food and drink are metaphors for worldly needs and desires, and thus abstinence from them is meant to elevate the spirit. The act of fasting predates Islam and is apparent in all the major religions of the world. In that respect it is an ancient practice (and one that may also carry health benefits ).

5. In addition to fasting, Ramadan includes other special practices.

Some of the special practices during Ramadan include eating a special pre-dawn meal called suhoor before starting the daily fast and then eating another post sunset meal called iftar to end the fast. During Ramadan Muslims also take part in extra worship, the most visible of which are the late night terawih prayers performed by Sunni Muslims, and the practice of i’tikaf— a form of spiritual retreat inside a mosque. Also, towards the end of Ramadan, many Muslims make a special charitable donation called zakat al-fitr which goes to the less fortunate so that they may also enjoy the festival of Eid al-Fitr at the end of Ramadan.

6. There are differences in the way Ramadan is observed.

One key difference in the practice of Ramadan is the start and end of Ramadan; as the Islamic calendar follows the actual cycle of the moon, the start of Ramadan is dependent on the sighting of the new moon. While a large number of Sunni Muslims follow Saudi Arabia’s sighting of the moon, many go with their own local sighting. This leads to Muslims starting Ramadan and celebrating Eid al-Fitr (which concludes the month) on different days. Other differences include Shi’a Muslims celebrating the birth of the second Imam Hasan Ibn Ali (also the fifth Caliph), the grandson of the Prophet on the 15 th day of Ramadan and observing a period of mourning in the last 10 days as it was in this period that the first Shi’a Imam Ali Ibn Talib (also the fourth Caliph) was murdered in A.D. 661.   

7. Important Islamic events have taken place during Ramadan.

Several other important Muslim historical events also took place during Ramadan, including the victory of the Muhammad-led Muslim  army in the Battle of Badr in A.D. 624; the Prophet Muhammad going on his mystical night journey, the mi’raj (according to some traditions), and the Prophet returning to Makkah triumphant, having been expelled from his hometown by his enemies earlier in his prophethood.

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