The exceptional 90-meter Oceanco superyacht Dar, Russian for gift, debuted at the 2018 Monaco Yacht Show. The same year, the beautiful vessel received a Judges’ Commendation for Best Technical Achievement at the Boat International Design & Innovation Awards. Owned by Russian billionaire Ziyad al Manasir, Dar was put for charter ever since it was delivered six years ago, asking upwards of $1.3 million per week.
However, the Oceanco masterpiece was listed for sale with Vesa Kaukonen of Large Yacht Corp earlier this year for around $225 million. Yachting influencer Kevin Koenig, who goes by the name “theyachtfella” on Instagram, claims American billionaire Robert Friedland has acquired the luxury vessel.
Friedland is a renowned businessman best known for his ventures in the mining industry and his significant impact on resource exploration and development. The billionaire’s story is just as fascinating as the Oceanco superyacht he has reportedly purchased. Born on August 18, 1950, in Chicago, Illinois, USA, Friedland grew up in a Jewish family, with his father being a refugee from Nazi-occupied Europe.
He attended Reed College in Portland, Oregon, where he became close friends with none other than Steve Jobs. In fact, Steve Jobs often admitted to being deeply influenced by Friedland’s interest in spirituality and countercultural ideas during their college days.
Friedland introduced Jobs to Eastern philosophy and meditation. He was deeply involved in the spiritual teachings of the Indian guru Neem Karoli Baba, which also influenced Jobs’ later trip to India in search of spiritual enlightenment. Jobs credited this period as shaping his interest in simplicity and design, which later became hallmarks of Apple’s products.
In the 1970s, Friedland ran an apple orchard in Oregon named All One Farm, where Jobs worked. It emphasized communal living and organic farming. This indirectly inspired Steve Jobs to name Apple Computers.
Friedland and Jobs also started a business venture during their time at Reed College that engaged in investments. Back in 2014, an 8-page legal agreement documenting the partnership from August 17, 1978, was auctioned for more than $40,000.
After college, he went on to become a successful mining entrepreneur, founding companies like Ivanhoe Mines. His projects have occasionally faced criticism for environmental and social impacts, though Friedland has worked to position himself as a leader in sustainable resource development. His current net worth is estimated to be around $3.4 billion.
Dar – a shark-shaped yachting masterpiece
Built by Dutch shipyard Oceanco, Dar is recognized for its cutting-edge design, eco-friendly technologies, and exceptional craftsmanship. Made to resemble a hammerhead shark, the vessel’s sleek exterior was penned by Miami-based designer Luiz De Basto. The exterior is characterized by a bold, angular silhouette and mirrored glass that seamlessly integrates with the natural environment. The reflective glass panels provide privacy while maintaining panoramic views from within.
Crafted by Nuvolari Lenard, the interior combines elegance, comfort, and contemporary style. The luxurious yet understated interior emphasizes natural light and open spaces. The one-of-a-kind interior features 120 different fabrics, 24 saddle leathers, maple veneer, limed ash, and sycamore that is dyed gray.
The yacht accommodates up to 14 guests in 7 staterooms, including a spacious owner’s suite with a private deck. The list of amenities is long and impressive, which includes two helipads for private use, a six-person all-glass elevator connecting the decks, a fully-equipped gym, a wellness area, an oversized beach club, several pools, and a massive tender garage. Superyacht Dar epitomizes modern luxury and innovative design, making it one of the most celebrated vessels in the world.
