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The long tale of the yacht linked to a Russian oligarch and abandoned in the Caribbean for more than 2 years finally draws to a close

• An undisclosed buyer picked up the Alfa Nero for $40 million last week.
• The yacht was originally seized from a Russian oligarch in 2022.
• The sale ended an ownership tug-of-war, which included ex-Google CEO Eric Schmidt.

An undisclosed buyer has finally stepped up to the helm of the Alfa Nero superyacht, ending a two-year-long saga, Bloomberg reported on Tuesday.

That buyer agreed last week to pay $40 million, a huge discount to the $67.6 million that former Google CEO Eric Schmidt bid last year, a deal he eventually abandoned.

The Antigua and Barbuda government sold the superyacht, which houses an infinity pool that converts to a helipad or dancefloor.

The massively discounted price can be attributed to authorities' need "to get the boat sold," Richard Higgins, a broker who represented the buyer, told Bloomberg.

Higgins said the European buyer, whose identify was kept secret, intends to put the superyacht on the charter market.

The person "is not included in the sanctions list of any country or institution," Ronald Sanders, Antigua and Barbuda's ambassador to the US, told Bloomberg.

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The 267-foot-vessel was seized by Antigua and Barbuda authorities after it was linked to Russian oligarch Andrey Guryev, who was accused by the US Treasury Department of having close ties to Russian President Vladimir Putin. Guryev is the founder of Phosagro, Europe's largest producer of phosphate fertilizers, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index .

The Alfa Nero was among dozens of superyachts seized following global sanctions against Putin's closest associates, which led to billions of dollars in frozen assets.

The Alfa Nero's maiden owner was Guryev, who purchased the vessel for $120 million, according to the US Treasury and the Antigua and Barbuda government . The Russian billionaire had adamantly denied ownership.

After the vessel was seized in 2022, it remained docked in Antigua's Falmouth Harbour, which cost residents of the Caribbean nation $28,000 in weekly tax dollars for maintenance, which took as many as 44 crew members . The superyacht was then valued at $81 million.

In 2023, the Antigua and Barbuda government put the Alfa Nero up for auction, citing hazards due to a lack of maintenance.Eric Schmidt initially won the bidding, for $67.6 million , but eventually backed out after Guryev's daughter claimed ownership of the superyacht.

The most recent acquisition of the Alfa Nero finally ends its ownership limbo, during which it racked up millions of dollars in port fees under the custody of the Antigua and Barbuda authorities, Darwin Telemaque, the Alfa Nero's port manager, told Bloomberg.

Last year, the Wall Street Journal reported that Antigua and Barbuda taxpayers were footing a $28,000-a-week bill to maintain the Alfa Nero, including the salary of an Italian captain and $2,000-a-day in diesel to keep its air conditioning running. That's because if the AC is turned off, it could let mold spread throughout the vessel and ruin the hardwood interior or a Joan Miró painting onboard, per the WSJ.

Watch: Video of Russian naval ship explosion shows a much-needed win for Ukraine

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Nero: On board the 90m superyacht that's an exact replica of a classic

You’d be forgiven for thinking that the classically styled 90.1-metre Nero has been sailing the seas for centuries. Dig a little deeper and you'll find she is an architectural confection of old and new, as Holly Margerrison discovers.

Nero is a yacht of many secrets. For years, she was home to a plump, ginger stowaway from the Chinese shipyard she was built in. Named Nelson, the cat stayed with the owner on board, only going ashore if guests were not fond of the feline, and he even had his own chair in the wheelhouse that he scratched to pieces. Everyone gave up trying to replace the armchair and eventually threw a blanket over it.

Frederica Findlater of Burgess recounts a beautiful photo of the yacht taken from the stern. You’d be mistaken for thinking Nero was the subject of the image. Instead, sat on the capping rail, tail straight down, is Nelson, lapping up dusk’s soft light. Oh, to be the stowaway on Nero and to know the stories she holds.

Several years and two substantial refits later, these nostalgic traces can still be found throughout – if you know where to look. On a bright day off the coast of Monaco, I tour the modern-classic build, witnessing the wealth of details that make her such a revered yacht.

For example: Tucked behind the door in the owner’s suite is the epitome of British naval power. Poised high on the top shelf is a bust of Vice Admiral Horatio Nelson (from which the cat borrowed its name) – a charismatic legend who led the British fleet to victory against the much larger French and Spanish fleets in the Battle of Trafalgar.

Follow the compass-embossed marquetry a little further along the deck and you uncover the next jewel in Nero 's trove. Here lies another bust, this time of Lord Byron, a figure heavily connected to the Greek War of Independence and the author behind the 1814 poem The Corsair . The poem tells the story of a wild and ruthless pirate, and served as inspiration for the name of one of the largest privately owned vessels in the 1930s, a 103-metre classic named Corsair IV that was itself the inspiration for Nero .

These treasures, along with model yachts that evoke the spirit of sea battles in their golden age, imbue Nero with a maritime history that goes much deeper than her clipper bow, black hull and iconic yellow funnel. It was British entrepreneur Neil Taylor who commissioned and designed Nero, initially setting out to restore a true classic. But when a suitable donor yacht wasn't available, he built a replica design of Corsair IV, owned by finance and industry icon JP Morgan in the 1930s.

Taylor inserted himself in the traditions of early 20th-century yachting and created something which both looked and felt like a time-honoured yacht. He pays his respects to JP Morgan across Nero with ubiquitous intertextual links. For a start, Corsair Yachts , the yard that Taylor created specifically for his build, is a nod to Morgan’s Corsair series of yachts. The bust of Nelson also honours the financier's fascination with the naval figure, who spent his life collecting ephemera and memorabilia. 

John Leonida, consulting superyacht industry advisor from LP Squared Ltd, shared much of his extensive research into Nero . He said: “The level of detail is extraordinary. It’s the bringing together of so many nautical themes that makes this such a spectacular boat.” Speaking of the figurehead of Byron, he added: “It’s an easter egg. If you don’t know it’s there, you don’t know that’s Byron. It adds another dimension.”

Her exterior is equally as captivating. As Captain Paul Bell explains, her sheer line “[rises] up as if it were an old-fashioned yacht. It’s taken from the time, so it’s architecturally correct. It’s the only boat I’ve worked on that has one of those, apart from an old-fashioned sailing yacht. She feels like a mix of a motor yacht and a sailing yacht because of her full-length keel. When she’s sitting at anchor like this, she feels like a sailing yacht.” He adds: “It’s quite relaxed, it’s not like a modern-day superyacht.”

It wasn’t always so relaxed inside and, for this, interior designer Laura Pomponi is to thank. As she puts it, she “transformed the yacht from a gentleman’s club to a lady of the seas”. Pomponi was tasked with the 2016 refit in MB92 in Barcelona, under a new owner whose brief was “contemporary, classic elegance”. Pomponi explains the biggest challenge of this refit was balancing a fresh aesthetic while “keeping the soul of the vessel”. To accomplish this, she introduced considerable light, cream interiors that are anything but clinical, and an amalgamation of cosy textures throughout.

Light in colour yet springy underfoot, the handmade bouclé carpet on the main deck invites guests to take their time as they walk across it. When it came to sourcing the fabric (of which there was 3.2km in the first refit), she explains “we pick up a little bit here, a little bit there. We don’t like well-known brands, we look for something special”.

Prior to the refit, purple, black and gold tones were a common theme on board, and they have since been replaced with nautical-hued furnishings, while dark high-gloss woods have been substituted for lime-washed oak and brass fittings have been stripped and dipped in chrome to resemble silver.

The mix of old and new artwork, chosen in collaboration with the owner and sourced predominantly from Italy and America, heightens the maritime theme with a contrast between tall ships and steamships.

The result of the first refit? A tactile, retro yacht where guests are encouraged to enjoy the space. Not cavernous yet also not claustrophobic, Nero encapsulates all that is to evoke “quiet luxury” – not defined by the amount it cost to build her, nor her refit costs.

Fast forward to 2021, when Pomponi’s expertise was called on once again. This time, the brief was more technical and focused on a wellness boat that would appeal to charter clients, aligning with an upgraded programme.

With this in mind, the snug was converted into a self-serving gym on the top deck and the previous gym was converted into a beauty saloon-come-massage room. They also changed the loose furniture and the owner opted for new colours, allowing Pomponi to weave in greens and yellows amongst the teal and blue. The sofas, designed and upholstered by the studio, demand to be sat on – the level of formality stripped in favour of ergonomic design. The floor surrounding the skylounge bar was also changed to wood to be more universally appealing.

The gym was Pomponi’s challenge for the 2021 refit, not least due to the technical constraints of the camber and the sheer of the floor. To make the ultra-modern kinesis fit, her team removed the floor and replaced it with technical cork panels, which are also easier to maintain. She then harmonised the contemporary and classic ambience with glass mirrors produced by an Italian company, Sicis, that specialises in glass mosaics. The mirrored cabinets are coated to give an antique effect.

In a testament to how the boat flows, this “quiet luxury” extends to the service provided by the unobtrusive yet attentive crew. They refute the formality of a silver service associated with a yacht of this size in favour of a more personable approach.

While little is known about the name behind Nero , there are certainly some characters who tell her multifaceted story. Nelson – both the feline and the naval figure – certainly have a part to play in this. For now, Nero will play host to charter guests – next stop Tarragona, before the Antigua Yacht Show.

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NERO YACHT CHARTER

90.1m  /  295'7   corsair yachts   2007 / 2021.

• Previous Yacht

Cabin Configuration

• 2 Convertible

Special Features:

• Beautiful classic styled yacht offering a fantastic array of generous interior and exterior socialising areas
• Large Owner's duplex, including his and hers bathrooms, private study, office and lounge
• Approved RYA water sports centre
• Sundeck Jacuzzi and gym
• Outdoor cinema
• Impressive array of water sports toys and tenders

With plenty of onboard entertainment, classic yacht Nero is an exceptional yacht charter choice

The award winning 90.1m/295'7" classic yacht 'Nero' by shipyard Corsair Yachts offers flexible accommodation for up to 12 guests in 6 cabins and features interior styling by Neil Taylor.

Iconic yacht Nero cuts a fine figure in the water, showcasing elegant lines and an array of spacious living areas, this yacht is sure to turn heads wherever she goes. Her features include a movie theatre and gym.

Guest Accommodation

Built in 2007, Nero offers guest accommodation for up to 12 guests in 6 suites comprising a master suite located on the main deck, one VIP cabin, two double cabins and two twin cabins. The supremely spacious full beam master suite incorporates its own study benefits from a his and her bathroom. There are 8 beds in total, including 2 king, 2 queen, 1 double, 4 singles and 2 convertible. A crew of twenty, who specialize in creating exceptional charters, are on hand to provide guests with a yacht charter vacation to remember.

Onboard Comfort & Entertainment

On your charter, you'll find plenty to keep you busy and entertained, particularly a state-of-the-art movie theatre for movie nights. Guests can enjoy a dip in the pool or a gym with all the latest equipment is available for a good work out. Sit back with a glass of champagne in the deck jacuzzi.

Whatever your activities on your charter, you'll find some impressive features are seamlessly integrated to help you, particularly satellite communications, keeping you connected on any voyage. Take advantage of the on board Wi-Fi and stay connected at all times or guests will experience complete comfort while chartering thanks to air conditioning.

Performance & Range

Built with a steel hull and steel superstructure, she offers greater on-board space and is more stable when at anchor thanks to her full-displacement hull. Powered by twin MAK engines, she comfortably cruises at 12 knots, reaches a maximum speed of 17 knots with a range of up to 3,800 nautical miles from her 176,000 litre fuel tanks at cruising speed. An advanced stabilisation system on board reduces the side-to-side roll of the yacht and promises guests exceptional comfort levels at anchor or when underway.

Nero has aboard a plentiful range of water toys and accessories ready to entertain you and your guests whilst on charter. Principle among these are waterslides letting guests speed from the sun deck to the water in seconds. Take to the sea on the Jet Skis offering you power and control on the water. Guests can experience the thrill and adventure of riding one of the two Yamaha GP1300R WaveRunners. If that isn't enough Nero also features towable toys, waterskis, a seabob, canoes, fishing equipment and much more. Nero features three tenders, but leading the pack is a 9.5m/31'2" Cabin Cruiser Tender to transport you in style.

Book your next the Mediterranean luxury yacht charter aboard Nero this summer. She is already accepting bookings this winter for cruising in the Caribbean.

Experience the magical places, food and experiences of the Mediterranean this summer from the luxury of your own classic yacht. Nero, her captain and talented crew are ready to make sure that your yachting experience is like nothing else.

TESTIMONIALS

There are currently no testimonials for Nero, please provide .

Stand Out Features

Vast master suite

A home away from home. Complete with private office, cinema lounge and an exclusive dining area.

Expansive deck space

Entertain up to 36 guests on the vast deck layout which features a Jacuzzi, sunloungers, and a sunpad quad.

Extensive water toy collection

Adrenaline pumping fun is catered for with jet skis, canoes, paddleboards, inflatables, and wave runners.

Nero Photos

Amenities & Entertainment

For your relaxation and entertainment Nero has the following facilities, for more details please speak to your yacht charter broker.

Rendez-vous diving only.

Nero is reported to be available to Charter with the following recreation facilities:

• 1 x 9.5m  /  31'2 Custom Cabin Cruiser Tender
• 1 x 7.39m  /  24'3 Zeta Elle rigid inflatable
• 1 x 5.2m  /  17'1 Nautica RIB

For a full list of all available amenities & entertainment facilities, or price to hire additional equipment please contact your broker.

Nero Awards & Nominations

• The World Superyacht Awards 2009 Best Displacement Motor Yacht of 1,300GT to 2,999GT (approximately 60m – 84m) Finalist
• International Superyacht Society Awards 2017 Best Refit Finalist
• The International Yacht & Aviation Awards 2017 Master Cabin Winner
• The World Superyacht Awards 2022 Best Refitted Yacht Nomination
• + shortlist

For a full list of all available amenities & entertainment facilities, or price to hire additional equipment please contact your broker.

APPROVED RYA WATER SPORTS CENTRE

Your family and friends could learn to use the water toys on your charter vacation onboard this luxury charter yacht. Motor Yacht Nero is a certified RYA Training Centre yacht.

'Nero' Charter Rates & Destinations

Summer Season

May - September

€497,000 p/week + expenses Approx $552,500

High Season

€525,000 p/week + expenses Approx $583,500

Cruising Regions

Mediterranean Croatia, France, Italy, Monaco, Montenegro, Turkey

HOT SPOTS:   Amalfi Coast, Corsica, French Riviera, Ibiza, Sardinia, The Balearics

Winter Season

October - April

$497,000 p/week + expenses

$595,000 p/week + expenses

Caribbean Antigua, Saint Martin, St Barts

HOT SPOTS:   Virgin Islands

This yacht is available for Corporate Yacht Charter and Events

Charter Nero

To charter this luxury yacht contact your charter broker , or we can help you.

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On Board Review

Invited on board at the Antigua Charter Yacht Show, the team at YachtCharterFleet discovers what makes the award-winning 90m/295ft classic motor yacht NERO such an icon.

Classic elegance and modern luxury fuse harmoniously aboard NERO

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Welcome to the Golden Age of Superyachting

NERO evokes the spirit of 20th Century yachting glamour and successfully combines this with all the luxuries offered on a modern-day superyacht.  Inspired by J. P. Morgan’s fourth imagining of his Corsair yachts, the last of which was launched in 1930, NERO honours a classic lineage.

Pairing classic style with contemporary sophistication, NERO’s aesthetic is unique in modern superyachting.  There’s no mistaking the source of inspiration for NERO’s majestic lines and handsome profile.  From clipper bow to counter stern, NERO’s proportions are beautifully balanced between her masts with a classic yellow stack top adding the final touch to her signature look. More than just a nod to the golden age of yachting.

THE ONBOARD EXPERIENCE

Step aboard NERO to experience the ultimate in quiet luxury.  By balancing her refined early 20th Century interior style with modern day comfort levels, the result is an idyllic setting for guests to enjoy.  NERO can accommodate up to 12 guests in the most exceptional comfort. There are exquisite interior and exterior lounge areas, a choice of formal and casual dining locations, a cinema, fully equipped gym and beauty salon, and an art deco cocktail lounge where a gin rickey can be savoured while contemplating this vessel’s inspiring stature.

LUXURY ON EVERY DECK

Guest and entertainment areas onboard NERO include her expansive sun deck with its Jacuzzi tub and 5.7m resistance pool, multiple alfresco dining and relaxing options as well as the formal dining room, spacious lounges, a cinema room, beauty salon and a state-of-the-art gym.

If staying connected is important whilst onboard, NERO has the latest AV/IT systems installed. NERO is a hub like no other.

FIRST CLASS SERVICE

NERO has an experienced and dedicated crew of 20 providing unrivalled hospitality to all her guests. Carefully selected for their qualifications and knowhow, the crew share a unique passion for yachting and are focused on delivering an unforgettable and first class guest experience.

NERO’s 20 strong crew includes a Michelin level culinary team, masseuse, beautician, fitness coach and water sports instructors.

TENDERS, TOYS & ACTIVITIES

Not exactly what J.P.Morgan would have found on his Corsair yacht, but NERO sits firmly in the 21st Century with her enormous array of water sports equipment. There is something for guests of all ages, from a huge inflatable slide that will send you speeding from the sun deck into the sea, to a fleet of Jet Skis, SeaBobs, kayaks and even a flyboard to entertain even the most adventurous of your group.

NERO is served by three tenders. Her bespoke 9.5m Corsair limousine tender calls to mind the East Coast commuter boats of the 1920s and 1930s. There is also a 7.4m Zeta Elle tender and a 5.2m Nautica RIB.

ACCOMODATION

A spectacular duplex master suite with separate lounge, study, and his-and-hers bathrooms is the highlight of NERO’s accommodation.  The master suite is located on the main deck and enjoys direct access to the observation lounge and pool.

A stylish VIP suite is located on the lower deck, with a spacious bedroom, a private lounge space, a large bathroom with a Jacuzzi tub, his-and-hers sinks, and a separate shower.

The guest suites comprise four further doubles, with two that are convertible between twin and double arrangements.

Copyright Nero Yacht 2024