Superyachts

This insightful exploration of superyachts reveals their role as symbols of wealth and social inequality, addressing broader issues like ecocide and capitalism.

In Superyachts, Grégory Salle explores the phenomenon of luxury vessels that exceed 30 meters, with some even surpassing 100 meters in length. At the dawn of the twenty-first century, there were about 2,000 superyachts worldwide; however, two decades later, this number has tripled, reflecting a significant trend in wealth accumulation and consumption among the elite. These impressive boats are not merely extravagant toys for billionaires but serve as a lens through which we can examine the broader social and environmental impacts of extreme wealth.

Salle argues that superyachts are emblematic of social exclusivity and environmental neglect. They represent a contemporary form of ostentatious seclusion and act as a magnifying glass for the growing inequalities in our society. By delving into the world of luxury yachting, Superyachts confronts pressing issues such as ecocide, class struggle, and the excesses of the wealthy. The book examines how these floating palaces reflect the darker sides of capitalism, including tax evasion, environmental crime, and the over-consumption habits of the rich.

Ultimately, Superyachts serves not just as a critique of luxury lifestyles but as a call to reflect on the implications of such excess. By pulling the thread of superyachting, Salle unravels a complex tapestry of contemporary issues that challenge our understanding of wealth, privilege, and responsibility in the modern world.