Mark Zuckerberg's Superyacht Launchpad Consumes $6.5 Million Fuel Amid Layoffs

Meta founder Mark Zuckerberg's 118‑metre superyacht, named Launchpad, burned an estimated 5.3 million litres of diesel—about $6.5 million in fuel costs—and emitted roughly 14,300 tonnes of carbon dioxide, equivalent to the annual emissions of hundreds of Americans. The yacht, built by Feadship and purchased for around $100 million, includes a helipad, a Bell 429 helicopter, a 12‑tonne crane and luxury cabins for eight guests.

The vessel was photographed cruising through Seattle’s Ballard Locks on the same day Meta announced a local layoff of about 1,400 employees, drawing criticism over the contrast between corporate cost‑cutting and private excess. A week later it was sighted off Antibes, France, near the Gravette beach, further highlighting the global reach of the billionaire’s maritime assets, which were formerly owned by New Zealand magnate Graeme Hart.

The episode has sparked discussion about the environmental impact of ultra‑luxury assets and the optics of such displays amid Meta’s net‑zero commitments and rising climate concerns.