Why own a ship at all? In a perfect world, the answer would be that the owner of the gorgeous $325 million Amadea could sail this gilded goliath across the length and breadth of the planet, living king-size even in the remotest, untouched corners of the world. In reality, this remains more dream than possibility. The auction of the superyacht Amadea ended on September 10, yet that vision still feels distant. The stunning six-decker, its name meaning “God’s love,” was once owned by Russian oligarch Suleiman Kerimov, who was sanctioned and put up for auction by the U.S. government.
The 4,402 GT pleasure craft comes with a 10-meter infinity pool and swim-up bar, a spa with hammam, a chromotherapy dip pool, and a sea terrace that opens directly to the ocean. Bidders had to put down $10 million deposits for the Sept. 10 sealed-bid auction, underscoring how coveted this vessel remains. Nearly the length of a football field, Amadea offers indulgent features: eight regal staterooms designed by François Zuretti, a rare lobster tank, a lavish cinema room with a 160” screen and D-Box motion seating, and even a popcorn machine.
There are captivating touches everywhere, a Renaissance-style mural above the dining table, a hand-painted Pleyel grand piano in the lounge, and the crowning five-ton stainless-steel Art Deco albatross figurehead sculpted by Dutch artist Willem Lenssinck. But beneath the gilded surfaces lies a reality that could turn this dream into a burden, for Amadea, beautiful as she is, is destined to carry some heavy baggage.
The burden of owning Amadea
While it may seem like a steal now, acquired at a possible fraction of its original price, Amadea’s ownership comes with strings attached. Straw owner (front man) Eduard Khudainatov’s lead lawyer has warned that the yacht may only be safe in U.S. waters. Once abroad, its ownership could be challenged in foreign courts, making the vessel effectively stranded.
For a yacht spanning 348 feet, being unable to sail freely across international waters strips away much of its allure. Instead of being the ultimate escape, it risks becoming a lifelong liability. Sounds like a dream boat to own, but not without a fair share of baggage. The superyacht is now docked in San Diego and will be delivered to the highest bidder “as is, where is,” according to The New York Times.
