Russian oligarch Mikhail Prokhorov, who has announced that he will challenge Vladimir Putin in the country’s presidential elections next year, is badly in need of a new superyacht. The metals magnate, who owns the New Jersey Nets, is the third richest man in Russia and the 32nd richest man in the world according to Forbes, with an estimated fortune of $18 billion. However his superyacht, the 202-ft. Solemar built by Amels in 2003, is so small it doesn’t show up on any of the rankings of the world’s top yachts. While rival oligarch Roman Abramovich of course owns the world’s largest, the 557-ft. Eclipse, the Solemar barely qualifies as a tender for that eye-popping vessel.
Should Prokhorov be elected to the Russian presidency, he will of course have the use of the presidential yacht – but it’s even smaller than his own. Current Russian President Dmitry Medvedev spent $42 million on the 177-ft. Sirius earlier this year. With accommodations for 12 guests in six staterooms along with 12 crew, the Sirius features a deck Jacuzzi for 6, spacious sunbathing areas, a gym, a sheltered lounge area and an alfresco dining area for 14 with barbecue and bar. Meanwhile Prokhorov has been offering the Solemar for charter at $325,000 per week with luxurious and spacious accommodation for up to 12 guests in 6 double suites.
