UPDATE: On Thursday morning, the Ministry for Economy and Innovation in the German state of Hamburg informed Forbes that their sources were not correct and reports of Dilbar's seizure are not true.
As you may have read from our previous coverage, in recent days Russian billionaires who are concerned that sanctions are about to drop have been rushing to move their yachts out of European and American waters. This has created a swirl of rumors and speculation surrounding high-value yachts, particularly those owned by individuals like Alisher Usmanov.
According to three sources that spoke with Forbes, German authorities operating in the city of Hamburg seized an $800 million yacht owned by sanctioned Russian billionaire Alisher Usmanov. [Again, these reports turned out to not be true…]
With a net worth of $19 billion, Usmanov is the fifth-richest Russian person in the world. His wealth stems from various investments, including steel manufacturing and telecommunications, making him a significant player in the global economy.
The Luxurious Features of Dilbar
The 512-foot yacht, which is called "Dilbar," has been docked for maintenance with shipbuilders Blohm+Voss for the last several months. Usmanov spent an estimated $600 million over 4.5 years having Dilbar custom built by a German firm. Construction completed in 2016, and today the yacht is reportedly worth $800 million or more. And when you hear some of the features, you'll understand why…
Dilbar is not just any yacht; it boasts two helicopter pads. While it might seem excessive, this feature underscores the lavish lifestyle of its owner. Additionally, Dilbar has the largest indoor swimming pool ever installed on a yacht, measuring an impressive 180 cubic meters. This feature alone makes it a remarkable floating palace on the water.
Luxury Accommodations
The interior of Dilbar features 12 suites that can comfortably accommodate two dozen guests in private luxury sanctuaries. Each suite is designed with utmost elegance, providing guests with a unique blend of comfort and opulence.
Operating Dilbar requires a full-time crew of at least 80 people! This dedicated team ensures that every aspect of the yacht's operation runs smoothly, from catering to maintenance. It’s a small city on the water, all focused on providing a first-class experience.
The Meaning Behind the Name Dilbar
Dilbar was Alisher's mother’s name, and this is actually his second yacht named in her honor. He sold the first iteration of Dilbar to a Middle Eastern billionaire, showcasing his sentimental connection to the name.
Here is Dilbar in better times back in April 2017 off the coast of Monte Carlo:
(Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)
Alisher Usmanov: A Billionaire's Journey
Alisher Usmanov earned his fortune as the majority owner of a conglomerate called Metalloinvest, which primarily manufactures steel. He also co-owns Russia's second-largest cellphone company, MegaFon, and one of the largest copper mining companies in the world, Udokan. His diverse portfolio showcases his business acumen and ability to thrive in various industries.
Interestingly, Alisher was also an early investor in Facebook along with fellow Russian billionaire Yuri Milner. This strategic investment further solidified his status as a savvy businessman, always looking for opportunities in emerging markets.
Previous Ownership in Soccer
He was previously the owner of 30% of the British soccer club Arsenal. He sold his 30% stake in 2018 for $700 million after having bought his initial 15% stake in 2007 for around $100 million. This venture into sports ownership not only showcases his wealth but also his passion for the game.
Sanctions and Their Impact
The European Union sanctioned Alisher Usmanov on March 1st. This action put a spotlight on his assets, including Dilbar, and has led to increased scrutiny of luxury items owned by billionaires. The sanctions have created an atmosphere of uncertainty, forcing many wealthy individuals to take quick actions regarding their possessions.
In conclusion, while rumors of Dilbar's seizure have been debunked, the yacht remains a symbol of luxury and wealth. Alisher Usmanov's story reflects the complexities of high finance, global economics, and the impact of geopolitical events on personal possessions. As the world watches, the fate of luxury yachts like Dilbar continues to intrigue and captivate.
