One of Russia’s wealthiest tycoons, Vagit Alekperov, is an accomplished man. The Baku-born businessman overcame many hurdles as a young boy, having lost his oilfield worker father early on, only to carve a name for himself in the same industry. In 1990, he became the youngest deputy energy minister in Soviet history. Today, with a net worth of nearly $27 billion, he owns a fleet of yachts and countless luxuries. Yet, for a man of such stature, it’s striking to hear him say he has no friends.
The shareholder (28% stake) and former director of Lukoil, Russia’s largest independent oil company, Alekperov leads a solitary life outside his work. In an interview with Forbes, he admitted, “I have devoted my whole life to work. I have no friends and acquaintances outside my business world.”
So, what does a man with no social circle do with an extraordinary yacht like the Heesen-built Galactica Super Nova? The 230-foot luxury vessel can accommodate 12 guests, but for the 74-year-old magnate, filling it with friends might be quite the challenge. If only his many billions could buy him companionship, his extravagant lifestyle might feel a little less solitary.
While money can’t buy friendships, it can certainly acquire some of the finest things in life, let’s take a look at what Alekperov has managed to attain through his fortune.
Heesen motor yacht Galactica Super Nova, a befitting boat for a billionaire-
He may not have a buzzing social circle, but owning a $120 million superyacht, essentially the ultimate party pad, is far from a waste. While he may not have close friends, his wealth and status likely attract plenty of people willing to join him on board.
The stunning yacht features a full-beam owner’s suite on the main deck, adorned with onyx panels, his and hers bathrooms, and a luxurious walk-in rainfall shower, perfect for the billionaire and his wife, Larisa Victorovna Alekperova. Their son, Yusuf, can enjoy the VIP apartment, complete with an en suite bathroom, private study, and lounge.
Among the yacht’s standout features are a glass-bottom swimming pool, a touch-and-go helipad, and a spacious beach club. Served by a crew of 16, Galactica Super Nova is powered by three MTU engines, reaching a top speed of 30 knots with a range of over 3,000 nautical miles.
Heesen flagship Genesis that sailed away
–
Few know that Alekperov once owned another remarkable yacht, the Heesen flagship Genesis (also known as Project Cosmos), before selling it to a mystery buyer. At 262 feet, she remains the largest yacht ever built by Heesen Yachts.
Interestingly, Alekperov’s ownership of the Galactica series was not driven by a passion for yachting. Instead, the former Lukoil president acquired Heesen Yachts in 2008 through his investment company, Morcell Ltd. However, to ensure the company’s continuity and shield it from potential sanctions, Heesen Yachts was transferred to an independent Dutch foundation in May 2022.
Designed by Winch Design with interiors by Sinot Exclusive Yacht Design, Genesis boasts a volume of 1,700 tons and can reach a maximum speed of 29 knots. While Alekperov may no longer own Heesen, his legacy remains tied to some of the most remarkable yachts ever built.
