A yacht is a recreational boat or ship, either sail or power, designed for leisure rather than commercial or military work. In maritime contexts, the term implies a vessel large enough to have a cabin and accommodations for overnight voyages, distinguishing it from small open runabouts or dinghies. Professional mariners often use the term broadly to classify the entire sector of private pleasure craft.
Heard on the job
Watch out for that motor yacht crossing our bow, they probably aren't monitoring channel 16.
Do not mix it up with
- Ship: A ship is a large commercial or naval vessel, while a yacht is strictly for private recreation.