There’s no status symbol quite as powerful or impressive as a superyacht. They’re masterful, beautiful, imposing creations, which ride the waves and rule the seas. For the absolute elite, they’re more than just that – the world’s most expensive superyachts are fully functioning residences, complete with fleets of staff, offices and recreation rooms, and they allow the owners to express their extravagant tastes and spend their time away from public scrutiny. At the moment, the race is on to build the most impressive yachts on the seas, and every year, more and more extreme examples are brought out to be snapped up by those seeking the very zenith in nautical style. Here is a brief rundown of the world’s three most expensive, most extravagant and beautiful examples of oceangoing wealth and luxury.

The Streets of Monaco – $1 billion

Although this superyacht is not yet complete, the plans for this immensely expensive luxury craft are unlike anything else we’ve ever seen. With a groundbreaking design, leaving traditional yacht building behind, it is made to resemble the Monaco skyline and features a staggering array of leisure facilities. These include a go-karting track, tennis courts, a private beach, swimming pools, and apparently, a glass bottomed viewing platform beneath the ship which will allow the guests to marvel at the beauty of the seas they will command.

The Eclipse – Approximately $1 billion

Typical of Russian billionaire, Roman Abromavich, nobody quite knows how much his premier superyacht – The Eclipse – costs. It’s not just the price of this vast boat that’s mysterious, though. The Eclipse is a masterclass in secrecy and privacy, featuring an arsenal of private defence systems to detect and deflect prying eyes and photographers. With two helipads, a swimming pool, a private submarine and room for twenty four guests and seventy crew members, it’s an imperial battleship for the modern, hyper-luxurious elite.

The Dubai – $350 million

This massive, gleaming white superyacht is the second largest in the world, and has passed through some pretty impressive manicured hands since its construction a few years ago. It was originally commissioned to be the private yacht of the prince of Brunei, but ended up being bought by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rachid Al Maktoum. It is currently owned by the Sheikh of Dubai, and is finished with a fully functioning spa, a swimming pool, a set of glass staircases, and enough partying space for one hundred and fifteen people. This astounding vessel regularly travels around the Arabian Gulf, and its helipad welcomes some of the wealthiest guests in the world.