The Good Life.

Byline: Zvika Krieger, Silvia Spring, Amber Haq, Karla Adam, Michelle Jana Chan, Brian Braiker,

Travel: A Fine Hotel Gone Mobile

By Zvika Krieger

The golden age of yachting was not during the 1930s, it's now, says William Smith, co-owner of U.S.-based Trinity Yachts. "Because of developments in technology, you can have all the comforts of the finest hotels in the world," says Smith. "And it's mobile." The construction of these luxury "superyachts"--as cruisers over 24 meters are known--has become the fastest-growing sector of the boat-building industry, according to Carl Richardson, technical editor of Motor Boats Monthly.

The Italians are leading the way. Azimut is known for its "open boat" construction, with a retractable roof on the main deck, most recently seen on its 86S model. But what really gives its boats the "wow" factor are their oversize windows, which give cruisers a view nearly to water level. The design is eye-catching, too, with bold hull colors and cabins decorated in satin and Japanese wood ([eurn]3.45 million to [eurn]3.6 million; azimutyachts.com )

For those with more Old World sensibilities, Ferretti's Mochi Craft 74A[acute accent] Dolphin updates the traditional New England lobster boat, melding the rounded shapes and natural lines of the 1950s with luxury trimmings like stitched leather upholstery and solid teak fixtures ([eurn]3 million; mochicraft- yacht.com ). Ferretti also offers the Pershing 90A[acute accent], whose main deck, bridge and rear deck are outfitted with sunpads perfect for tan-seekers (approximately [eurn]7 million; pershing.it ).

Wally Yacht's 118 Wallypower, also made in Italy, may be the most unusual-looking boat on the water, with angular construction and a metallic, refractive hull. It also cruises at a speedy 40 knots and can sleep six, in cabins outfitted in teak, white lacquered veneers and skylights ([eurn]21 million; wally.com ).