Seized Russian Superyachts: Where Are They Now?
Explore the intriguing fates of seized Russian superyachts and their notorious owners.
In the high-stakes world of international politics, the fate of Russian superyachts seized from Russian oligarchs reads like a James Bond script—but with lawyers instead of secret agents. As these floating palaces sit moored, gathering marine grime and legal bills, their stories unfold across the globe, from the swanky docks of Canary Wharf to the sunny harbors of San Diego. Let's dive into the current whereabouts and peculiar predicaments of these opulent vessels.
Above: "Sailing Yacht A" has been the subject of great controversy and it was seized by Italian authorities after its Russian owner was placed on a sanctions list back in March of 2022. Photo by Brock Harris.
1. Russian Superyachts: The Case of Phi
Moored in London’s Canary Wharf, Phi, a stunning vessel previously buzzing with the activity of a well-heeled crew, now serves as a reluctant symbol of geopolitical tensions. Valued at a whopping £38 million and featuring an "infinite wine cellar" and a seven-meter pool, it’s now under the custody of the UK government, thanks to its alleged connections to Russian elites. Despite legal appeals, the yacht remains a luxurious prisoner, its fate a subject of courtroom drama and political statements.
2. The American Detainee, Amadea
This $300 million, 348-foot superyacht boasts features that blur the lines between opulence and surrealism, including a gold-pedaled piano and a DJ booth-swappable pool. Seized in Fiji by U.S. authorities and believed to be owned by gold magnate Suleiman Kerimov, it was transported to San Diego. Here, it incurs a staggering $740,000 in monthly maintenance costs—all footed by the U.S. taxpayer. The legal battles continue as authorities argue over its true ownership.
Above: The Russian Superyacht Amadea. Photo via Superyacht Times.
3. The Notorious Lady Anastasia
In Mallorca, the Lady Anastasia faced an unexpected mutiny when a Ukrainian mechanic, enraged by the Russian invasion of his homeland, attempted to sink the yacht by opening its valves. Owned by the head of Russian arms exporter Rosoboronexport, this yacht's dramatic story highlights the intense personal and political passions ignited by these seizures.
4. The Ghost Yachts of Dmitry Mazepin
Last spotted sailing towards the uncertain havens of Tunisia and Turkey, two yachts owned by the sanctioned billionaire vanished from the radar. The disappearances of these Russian superyachts challenge the efficacy of sanctions and raise questions about the enforcement capabilities of European authorities.
5. Sailing Yacht "A"
Docked in Trieste, this behemoth designed by Philippe Starck and alleged to belong to Russian oligarch Andrey Melnichenko, represents a massive financial burden for Italian taxpayers, with maintenance costs running into millions. The yacht's futuristic design and imposing presence make it a standout character in this saga.
Above: The Russian Superyacht PHI has a real James Bondish story. Photo via Superyacht Times.
6. The Escaped Scheherazade
Allegedly connected to President Vladimir Putin himself, the Scheherazade became a centerpiece of controversy when Navalny’s foundation claimed its crew included federal security agents. Seized in Italy, its luxurious refurbishments continue unabated, demonstrating the complexities and challenges of sanction enforcement.
7. The Alfa Nero Drama
The saga of the Alfa Nero, which saw a potential sale to former Google CEO Eric Schmidt fall through due to legal fears, illustrates the intricate web of legal and financial risks that entangle these yachts. Owned, according to various claims, by different members of the Guryev family, its story is a perfect storm of legal disputes and high finance.
These tales of seized Russian superyachts unfold against a backdrop of legal wrangling, political maneuvers, and public fascination. While they may not cruise the oceans freely, their stories sail across headlines worldwide, carrying tales of intrigue, opulence, and the long arm of international law. As these legal battles continue, the yachts serve as luxurious but uncomfortable reminders of the ongoing geopolitical tensions that ripple through the waters of global affairs.
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