5 African billionaires who own superyachts

Africa’s billionaire class is increasingly extending its footprint beyond boardrooms and balance sheets into the world of ultra-luxury assets: superyachts. 

From custom-built European vessels to high-performance motor yachts, these floating palaces reflect more than wealth; they signal global access, engineering taste, and a shift toward lifestyle assets traditionally dominated by Western elites. 

While many yachts linked to African tycoons are registered in offshore jurisdictions such as Monaco and the Cayman Islands, their ownership underscores a broader narrative: African capital is becoming more visible in global luxury markets. 

Nigeria leads this trend, with multiple billionaires investing in high-end vessels, while North and Southern Africa contribute through royal and legacy wealth. 

Beyond status, yachts serve practical roles, hosting business meetings, private retreats, and international networking. 

At the same time, Africa’s maritime ecosystem is evolving, with South Africa positioning itself as a future superyacht refit hub. 

As more African billionaires commission bespoke builds, the continent is moving from consumption to participation in the global yacht economy. Here are five wealthy individuals known to own or have owned luxury yachts

1. Aliko Dangote
Net worth: $32.2 billion 
Nationality: Nigerian 
Yacht name: Mariya 
Details: Africa’s richest man owns the Sunseeker Predator motor yacht Mariya, a 108-foot vessel acquired in 2013. The custom-made luxury yacht named Mariya, was originally purchased in 2013 for an estimated $43 million, featuring four cabins, including a master suite, a VIP stateroom, and two twin cabins, comfortably accommodating up to eight guests. Mariya reaches a top speed of 44 knots and cruises smoothly at 30 knots. Recently, Aliko Dangote listed his multimillion-dollar luxury yacht and his private jet for sale as part of a strategy to reduce and streamline his luxury assets.

2. Abdul Samad Rabiu
Net worth: $14.1 billion 
Nationality: Nigerian 
Details: Nigerian billionaire and BUA Group chairman Abdul Samad Rabiu owns and commissions luxury yachts, making headlines for his luxury maritime assets in February 2026 after the purchase, which he uses for leisure and hosting. The massive 60-meter (197-foot) custom superyacht from the renowned Italian shipbuilder Baglietto costs between $65 million and $100 million, and is designed to include ultra-luxury features like a touch-and-go helipad, a haute-cuisine kitchen, a wine cellar, and a garage holding tenders and jet skis.

3. King Mohammed VI
Net worth: $5.7 billion
Nationality: Moroccan
Yacht name: Badis I
Details: Badis I is a 70-meter (229.8-foot) custom sail yacht built by Perini Navi in Italy and owned by King Mohammed VI of Morocco. Designed by PHDesign, the yacht comfortably accommodates up to 12 guests in six cabins: a master suite, two VIP staterooms, and three double cabins. She also carries up to 11 crew members to ensure a luxurious experience. Powered by twin MTU (16V 2000 M72) diesel engines producing 1,930 horsepower, Badis I can reach a top speed of 17.5 knots and cruises comfortably at 12.5 knots.

4. Naguib Sawiris
Net worth: $5.6 billion
Nationality: Egyptian
Yacht name: Yalla
Details: Egyptian billionaire Naguib Sawiris owns the 73-meter yacht Yalla, built by CRN Yacht. It accommodates 12 guests in six suites and has facilities for 22 crew members. The interior was designed by Droulers Architecture, with an exterior by Omega Architects. Powered by two Caterpillar engines, Yalla reaches a top speed of 18.5 knots and cruises at 13 knots.

5. Isabel dos Santos
Net worth: $1.4 billion
Nationality: Angolan
Details: Angolan billionaire Isabel dos Santos owns the 49.8-meter superyacht Hayken, a custom-built Heesen yacht reportedly acquired from London property developer Christian Candy. Featuring an aluminum superstructure and hydrodynamic hull, Hayken is designed for minimal fuel consumption. Its exterior was crafted by Frank Laupman of Omega Architects, with interiors by Francesco Paszkowski and naval architecture by Van Oossanen Naval Architects. The yacht accommodates up to 12 guests in five staterooms, including a luxurious master suite. Powered by twin MTU 16V 4000 M90 diesel engines, Hayken can reach a top speed of 23 knots and cruises at 17 knots.