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After two years of legal wrangling, the iconic 81.3-metre Alfa Nero has been sold this year for $40 million, with Northrop & Johnson’s Richard Higgins brokering the deal in record time (10 days). The sale comes after the yacht’s abandonment and two-year legal standoff.
So What Happened With Alfa Nero?
A Yacht Trapped in Legal Limbo
Alfa Nero was seized in 2022 after its sanctioned owner left it stranded, accumulating unpaid crew wages and hefty maintenance bills. The government of Antigua and Barbuda eventually declared it abandoned, and the yacht was put on the market while crew played Call of Duty all summer with nowhere to take the yacht.
Funds to Clear Debts and Fill Gaps
The proceeds from the sale will help cover outstanding debts, including unpaid wages and a portion of Antigua’s £220 million budget shortfall. The sale brings much-needed financial relief to the island after the yacht’s costly stay.
Eric Schmidt’s Failed Auction Bid
In 2023, former Google CEO Eric Schmidt tried to buy Alfa Nero at auction for £67 million, but the sale collapsed due to last-minute legal battles initiated by the yacht’s original owner, blocking the deal.
A Legendary Yacht with Impressive Features
Despite the drama, Alfa Nero remains a masterpiece of design. Known for its 12-metre pool that can turn into a helipad or dancefloor, the yacht, designed by Nuvolari Lenard, has always been a standout since its launch in 2007.
End of an Era, Start of a New Chapter
Now with a new owner, Alfa Nero is ready to leave its past behind and embark on a fresh journey. No more legal troubles, just smooth sailing ahead!
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