$325 million Russian superyacht seized by US — now you can bid on its helipad, spa, and 8 lavish staterooms

The U.S. government is set to auction Amadea, a $325 million superyacht seized from a Russian oligarch, as part of ongoing sanctions related to the Ukraine war. The 348-foot yacht was initially captured in Fiji in 2022 and has been held in San Diego ever since. The luxury vessel, featuring a helipad, swimming pool, spa, and cinema, is one of the most opulent yachts ever seized under sanctions.

The U.S. Marshals Service announced a sealed bid auction running through September 10, 2025. To participate, bidders must submit a refundable €10 million deposit (around $11.6 million). The winning bidder will receive full title and ownership of the yacht, pending any unresolved legal claims.

Ownership Dispute Clouds the Sale

Though the U.S. claims the yacht belongs to Suleiman Kerimov, a sanctioned Russian billionaire, it is officially registered to Millemarin Investments Ltd., a Cayman Islands based firm. The listed owner, Eduard Khudainatov, a former executive of Russian oil giant Rosneft, is not under any current U.S. sanctions and maintains he owns the vessel legitimately.


Khudainatov’s lawyers have challenged the U.S. government’s claim, arguing that the seizure and planned auction are unlawful. However, the U.S. Justice Department says it has solid evidence proving that Kerimov is the true owner, and that Khudainatov was used as a “straw owner” to conceal the yacht’s real ties. Officials remain confident that the sale can proceed, even as legal questions linger.

Proceeds Expected to Support Ukraine Aid

The planned sale aligns with a broader U.S. policy of using confiscated Russian assets to support Ukraine’s recovery. Proceeds from the auction are expected to be redirected to reconstruction efforts, humanitarian assistance, and rebuilding war damaged infrastructure.

Maintaining the yacht has cost the U.S. millions of dollars since it was seized. By auctioning it off, authorities not only reduce that financial burden but also send a strong message about the consequences of violating international norms. The Amadea auction marks one of the most high-profile attempts by the U.S. to convert luxury property from sanctioned individuals into meaningful global impact.

FAQs:

Q1. What is a superyacht?
A1.A superyacht is a large, luxurious private yacht, often equipped with high-end amenities like pools, cinemas, and helipads. They are usually owned by wealthy individuals and can cost hundreds of millions of dollars.

Q2. Who is Suleiman Kerimov?
A2. Suleiman Kerimov is a Russian billionaire who has been sanctioned by the U.S. and other countries for his ties to the Russian government. He is believed to own several high-value international assets.