Offering the best views on board, not to mention plenty of space for fitting a spa pool, the sundeck is often the centrepiece of a superyacht’s design. We take a look at ten of the very best examples in the world, starting with Illusion V.

Sliding doors create a protected outdoor dining space that divides the sundeck on this 58 metre Benetti into a solarium aft and a bar area with divine superyacht spa pool.

Masterfully integrated into the sleek profile of this sporty 70 metre Heesen superyacht, the sundeck of Galactica Super Nova is linked visually and physically to the open bow. Sliding glass and a hardtop bimini make this an ideal space for entertaining, both during the heat of the day and late at night.

The sundeck on 63 metre Benetti 11.11 was partially finished when the original client walked away just ten months before delivery. Her current owner saw this as a great opportunity and had the upper deck rebuilt with a spa pool made from fibreglass, surrounded by sunpads, as well as a stone-clad cocktail bar and an intimate seating area, complete with kitchenette.

The debut model in Dynamiq Yachts' configurable D4 range, 39 metre Jetsetter boasts a superyacht sundeck that measures an incredible 20 metres long. Designer Sergei Dobroserdov explains that this area is comparable to the upper deck space you would usually expect to find on a 60 metre superyacht.

Those looking to work out in the sun can avail themselves of the exercise bikes or treadmill, which are situated right next to the forward superyacht spa pool so you can quickly unwind afterwards with a relaxing soak. Back aft is a sheltered dining area, which is protected from the elements by a custom hardtop and two sliding glass doors amidships.

Often a favourite spot on board for owners and guests alike, superyacht sundecks are ideal for relaxing al fresco and soaking up some rays. We pick out six of the very best.

The sheltered sundeck on 47.25 metre Sunseeker flagship yacht Blush, with its chic décor, sophisticated lighting scheme and varied areas makes it feel like an outdoor saloon. It is perfect for long evenings with friends – lingering over dinner or propping up the bar.

Currently owned by Top Gear presenter and Boat International columnist Eddie Jordan, Blush is for sale.

The sprawling sundeck on this 85.1 metre superyacht runs from a horseshoe bar with gold mosaic to a beach-chic lounge platform with a twinkly star overhead and dance floor — it has hosted 60 guests for a New Year’s Eve celebration.

Designed for pure enjoyment, Solandge was launched by German yard Lürssen in 2013.

The top deck of 69.55 metre Elysian is party central, with a kitchen, grill and bar, a drop-down cinema screen and a sound system and DJ set-up for a disco.

Delivered by Lürssen in 2014, Elysian features exterior styling by the world renowned Espen Øino and a sumptuous Reymond Langton Design interior that provides accommodation for up to 12 guests.

The sundeck of 69.3 metre Suerte boasts an 8,000 litre pool with a bar and waterfall, plus a touch-and-go superyacht helipad that doubles as an ideal sunbathing spot.

The debut superyacht from Italian yard Tankoa Yachts, Suerte was launched in 2015 featuring exterior design by Francesco Paszkowski.

The uppermost of four decks, the sundeck of this 61.3 metre yacht includes an enclosed superyacht gym as well as an ultra-private lounge space for intimate gatherings.

A 2014 launch for the CRN shipyard, Saramour can accommodate up to 12 guests in the utmost comfort.

The sundeck of this 55.4 metre was a sunbather’s haven but a recent refit made it a social hub too — with a stylish bar, barbecue and dining area.

Launched in 2011 by Turkish yard Turquoise Yachts, this tri-deck yacht features exterior design by Dubois Naval Architects. Turquoise is currently offered for sale.