After Years of Legal Battles and Abandonment, the Alfa Nero Superyacht Finally Returns to the Water Following an Extensive Refurbishment, Marking the End of Its Controversial Saga
The renowned 81.3-meter Oceanco superyacht, Alfa Nero, is making its much-anticipated return to the charter market following an extensive and meticulous refit. Originally launched in 2007, Alfa Nero was sidelined for several years due to a series of legal entanglements, most notably sanctions placed on its former owner, Russian billionaire Andrey Guryev, due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. After being abandoned in Antigua’s Falmouth Harbour in 2022, the yacht faced significant financial and environmental challenges, leaving it at the mercy of legal and financial disputes.
However, in 2024, a breakthrough came when Alfa Nero was sold at auction, clearing all outstanding debts and setting the stage for a much-needed restoration. The yacht was sent to Martinique Shipyard, where an exhaustive refit took place. The comprehensive overhaul included mechanical updates, hull refinishing, deck restoration, interior maintenance, and a wide range of technical repairs to restore the vessel to its former splendour.
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Nicole Terry, Alfa Nero's central agent from Northrop & Johnson, expressed great enthusiasm about the yacht’s return to the market, highlighting its iconic status and the excitement surrounding its relaunch. “It’s somewhat poetic that Alfa Nero will be relaunched here in Antigua, where it had become such a prominent part of the island’s skyline,” Terry remarked. “As brokers, we all walked past the yacht at the Antigua Charter Yacht Show over the past couple of years, and the curiosity surrounding her was palpable. Everyone wondered when this moment would come.”
The refit process for Alfa Nero was no small feat, involving a wide array of upgrades to ensure the yacht is fully charter-ready. According to Terry, the extensive work included servicing the yacht's machinery, sanding and re caulking the decks, polishing the marble surfaces, and cleaning the carpets and upholstery. The crew also replaced the yacht's anodes, refreshed the antifouling, and conducted full flag and class inspections to guarantee that the yacht meets all necessary safety and regulatory standards. Additionally, the laundry and galley equipment was serviced, and the guest and crew elevators were given special attention to ensure smooth operation.
One of the standout features of Alfa Nero remains its incredible exterior design, which includes an innovative infinity pool that seamlessly transforms into a helipad, offering breathtaking views and an unparalleled luxury experience. The yacht also boasts a deck Jacuzzi, multiple alfresco dining areas, spacious lounge spaces, and a well-equipped gym. Alfa Nero's interior design is a fusion of pop art and Art Deco, with vibrant color schemes, zig-zag woodwork, and bold striped flooring, creating a striking and dynamic atmosphere.
Following its official relaunch at the Antigua Charter Yacht Show in December 2024, Alfa Nero will begin its winter charter season in the Caribbean and the Bahamas. After this, it will return to the Mediterranean for the summer 2025 season. Northrop & Johnson has confirmed that Alfa Nero is now accepting bookings, with a weekly charter rate starting at $812,500. The yacht’s remarkable features and luxurious amenities make it a highly sought-after option for those seeking the ultimate charter experience.
In addition to its impressive array of water toys and state-of-the-art gym, Alfa Nero offers a beauty and hair salon, Wi-Fi connectivity, and an array of luxurious lounges and dining areas. Guests aboard the yacht can also enjoy a wide range of activities, from relaxing by the infinity pool to exploring the open seas with the yacht's extensive selection of water sports equipment.
With its past controversies now behind it, Alfa Nero marks a new chapter in its storied existence. The superyacht’s return to the global charter market signals not only a remarkable recovery but also the resolution of a tumultuous period in its history, offering a fresh and exciting opportunity for the yachting community. As it embarks on its new journey, Alfa Nero is poised to reclaim its place as one of the most iconic yachts in the world.
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