The colossal private yacht belonging to Russian oligarch Roman Abramovich sailed into New York harbour yesterday and stunned residents by docking in midtown Manhattan for reasons unknown.
Widely recognised as the largest boat in the world, Eclipse measures a whopping 557ft in length so was unlikely to go unnoticed as it arrived in the Big Apple.
The presence of the $1.5billion vessel has surprised many familiar with the Russian's security paranoia and media shyness and has understandably fuelled speculation as to why it has strayed from its usual territory around southern Europe and St Barts.
A spokesman for Mr Abramovich refused to comment on the nature of the Chelsea FC owner's business in New York but tongues are wagging that it may have something to do with his girlfriend's pregnancy.
Dasha Zhukova is expecting the couple's first child together in the Spring and dock workers have revealed the boat is due to remain parked at the Midtown pier until mid-April.
Since Mr Abramovich prioritizes privacy and security, CNBC reports that some believe he is using the boat as a temporary residence so he can better accommodate his staff and security team.
The incredible vessel boasts two swimming pools, two helicopter pads, a dedicated disco hall, around 30 cabins, a mini-submarine, and even a missile defence system.
It also has armour-plating around Abramovich’s master suite, bullet-proof windows and a laser system designed to dazzle long-lens photographers.
When it was ordered the initial cost was estimated at around $500million, but by the time Mr Abramovich took delivery last year it was spiralling towards the $1.5billion mark because of the extra luxury fittings and security measures.
Eclipse was built by the Blohm and Voss shipyard in Hamburg, Germany, and delivered to Abramovich last December.
The oligarch also owns three other mega-yachts, the Pelorus (377ft), the Ecstasea (282ft) and the Sussurro (161ft).
Abramovich once lent the Pelorus to Chelsea footballers Frank Lampard and John Terry as a 'bonus' for playing well.
Annual running costs for his fleet are around $25million including full tanks of petrol at around $110,000 per yacht.
No comments:
Post a Comment