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14 Mega- and Superyachts Seized in The Netherlands Over Possible Russian Ties

In what could possibly be the biggest and most expensive “catch,” Dutch authorities have decided to temporarily seize 14 mega- and superyachts.
Dutch authorities have temporarily seized 14 superyachts over supposed ties to Russia and Russian oligarchs 6 photos
Photo: Yacht Charter Fleet
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The decision comes after a string of significant seizures, where international authorities impounded some of the most expensive megayachts in the world as a result of ongoing sanctions against Russia and Russian oligarchs. Of these 14 yachts, 12 are currently under construction at five shipyards in the country, while two have been brought in for refits. For the time being, not a single one can leave, regardless of its condition.

The other day, Dutch Foreign Minister Wopke Hoekstra wrote in a letter to Parliament that a more thorough look at the complex structures of ownership was required, the NL Times reports. At the same time, Hoekstra urged that vessels whose direct beneficiaries are of Russian or Belarusian origin should be held until it is established whether they’re on the sanctions list or not. Russia, Belarus and oligarchs are being sanctioned in response to Russia’s invasion of neighboring country Ukraine.

“The current picture is that a total of 12 yachts are under construction at five of the shipyards for so-called Russian UBOs (ultimate beneficial owners). These are not persons who are named on the European sanctions lists, but given the current measures, these vessels may not be supplied, transferred or exported at this time,” Hoekstra wrote. “Additionally, there are two yachts for maintenance at Dutch yards that have been placed under stricter customs supervision. The connection between one of these yachts with a person named on the European sanction lists is being investigated.”

The same media outlet notes that Dutch authorities have already moved to seize the vessels until their exact ownership is established. Hoekstra said that The Netherlands had so far seized €516 million (approximately $563 million at the current exchange rate) in assets and €155 million ($169 million) in transactions, but without a doubt, the latest decision will also impact the national economy. Several of the world’s biggest luxury shipyards are located here, including Oceanco, Feadship, Damen Shipyards and Heesen.

The five shipyards where the 14 ships are located are fully cooperating with authorities, the report adds.
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Editor's note: Photos in the gallery show Tango, Viktor Vekselberg's superyacht seized in Spain in April, built by Feadship

About the author: Elena Gorgan
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Elena has been writing for a living since 2006 and, as a journalist, she has put her double major in English and Spanish to good use. She covers automotive and mobility topics like cars and bicycles, and she always knows the shows worth watching on Netflix and friends.
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