Yacht-code

Why would a computer geek need a gigayacht? This year, a whole cohort of founders of operating systems, search engines, social networks, and messaging apps have received brand-new yachts over 90 or even 100 meters long. Some of these will make an appearance at the upcoming Monaco Yacht Show, while others will remain private. People in hoodies, who once spent sleepless nights coding in college dorms, should be worlds apart from the sea and the glamorous lifestyle. Or are they?

Today, yachts remain the ultimate symbol of wealth. The cost of construction and charter immediately filters out those who merely want to put on a show. Masterpieces of engineering and design are recognizable at first glance, and their owners are well-known. The old adage, “You can judge a person by their clothes,” no longer holds true. Watches don’t always accurately reflect a person’s status. You’d need to be an expert in complications and have the sharpest eye to instantly identify the model on someone’s wrist. And even then, would it be appropriate to stare? Supercars? They’re easy to rent. Private jets? Real estate? Yes, but you can only express your individuality in the jet’s interior; its exterior lacks the uniqueness of a yacht.

Real estate is tied to a specific location, and a jet flies from point A to point B on a predetermined route. A yacht, however, represents endless possibilities. In essence, it’s your personal microstate, where you set the rules and enjoy near-total autonomy. One night under the stars, 3,000 miles from any land, aboard your own yacht, can expand your mind and open new horizons more effectively than any course with a superstar coach.

This is why yachts are often built from scratch, with owners participating in the sacred process of their creation from the very first moment the idea is conceived. While yachts may depreciate over time and require significant funds for maintenance, the owner always comes out ahead, gaining unparalleled experiences.

Building a yacht is one of the most significant investments life can offer—not an investment in money but in something priceless: the quality of your own life. Just make sure to calculate everything carefully: seasoned experts say the cost of a yacht, including maintenance, should not exceed 10% of your total wealth.