Mark Zuckerberg’s Yacht Comes With A Helipad And 200-Foot Wingman

• Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg acquired the superyacht Launchpad in early 2024 for $300 million USD.
• The luxurious yacht features 13 opulent rooms, accommodating up to 24 guests.
• Launchpad is accompanied by a 220-foot support vessel, Wingman, designed to carry additional equipment and supplies.

For the world’s wealthiest, owning a superyacht has become a hallmark of luxury, offering an unparalleled opportunity to experience pristine waters and remote beaches for unforgettable experiences with loved ones. While tech titans like Amazon’s Jeff Bezos and Google co-founder Sergey Brin have long embraced such indulgence, others like Mark Zuckerberg initially resisted the bountiful trend — but now he too has firmly joined the ranks of maritime luxury enthusiasts with his record $300 million USD ($460 million AUD) superyacht purchase, Launchpad.

In 2024, Mark Zuckerberg’s net worth surged to $219 billion USD, making him the world’s second-richest person. Once known for his modest wardrobe of grey T-shirts and almost monastic personal style, Meta CEO’s transformation has been striking. Zuckerberg’s recent splurges on high-end watches, custom sports cars, and now a maritime masterpiece signify a remarkable evolution in his public persona.

Launchpad Superyacht Quick Facts

How Big is the Launchpad Superyacht?

With an impressive 387 feet, Launchpad is among the largest private yachts ever constructed. This engineering marvel was initially commissioned by Russian oligarch Vladimir Potanin but changed hands as geopolitical tensions arose following the war in Ukraine, eventually becoming Zuckerberg’s prized possession in early 2024.

Powered by two cutting-edge MTU engines, each producing 6,000 horsepower, Launchpad effortlessly reaches a top speed of 24 knots (44 km/h) and can traverse over 3,000 nautical miles without refuelling. With a beam of 50 feet and a weight of 5,000 tons, the yacht is a floating showcase of engineering prowess and design excellence. Launchpad boasts a gross tonnage of 4,999 GT, making it Feadship’s second-largest delivery to date.

Launchpad has so far consumed approximately 2,081,301 litres (550,000 gallons) of diesel fuel to cover 29,522 nautical miles. Wingman — more on the companion vessel below — burned 1,064,747 litres (281,276 gallons) of diesel fuel for 27,245 nautical miles, totalling 3,146,048 litres (831,276 gallons). Even when stationary, each yacht burns around 500 litres per hour to maintain essential systems.

What Are the Features of Launchpad?

Designed by De Voogt Naval Architects and Espen Øino International, with interiors by Zuretti Interior Design, the vessel redefines maritime sophistication. The yacht can accommodate up to 24 guests across 13 lavish staterooms, attended by a dedicated crew of 48 professionals who ensure an unmatched experience on the high seas.

The yacht boasts extra special facilities that redefine luxury on the waterways: a private cinema that presents cinematic escapes, an ultimate entertainment beach club, a fully equipped gym, a beauty salon, and a deck Jacuzzi for pure relaxation. A helipad ensures seamless travel, while the swimming pool adds a touch of resort-like sophistication to this floating sanctuary.

Launchpad’s Companion Vessel: Wingman

Previously named Dapple and owned by video game billionaire Gabe Newell, Wingman boasts a range of 8,700 nautical miles and is staffed by 20 crew members.

To support Launchpad, Zuckerberg also bought a $30 million USD, 220-foot support vessel, Wingman. The companionship carries additional equipment and is ready for almost anything from water sports to diving expeditions, emphasizing Zuckerberg’s comprehensive approach to ocean exploration.

Where Has Zuckerberg Sailed Launchpad?

Since its purchase, Launchpad has been at the centre of all Zuckerberg family celebrations and personal voyages. From celebrating his 40th birthday in Panama to hosting his father’s 70th birthday near the sun-drenched shores of Mallorca, the yacht has traversed some of the most picturesque maritime destinations in the world.

Most recently, Launchpad completed an epic 12-day voyage from San Francisco, arriving at Papeete Harbor in Tahiti on November 10, 2024. Zuckerberg, an avid surfer, opted not to make the trip aboard the yacht. Instead, he flew to the destination on his Gulfstream jet — likely due to his demanding schedule managing the world’s largest social media platform, leaving little time for a lengthy sea voyage.

Tahiti enjoys a reputation for unmatched waves and spectacular surfing conditions, perhaps the reason why the CEO of Meta chose this destination to satisfy his surfing passion in the waters of French Polynesia.

While modern superyachts are often blasted for environmental destruction and face occasional mishaps, including sinkings and fires, their appeal to the ultra-rich just keeps growing. For Zuckerberg, the Launchpad acquisition is more than just a luxury purchase—it is a reflection of his ascent to the upper echelons of influence and wealth. In an era where privacy and luxury are both highly coveted and scrutinized, this magnificent yacht functions almost as a fortress of exclusivity, with a formidable symbol of transformation.