Russian Billionaire’s Former Palatial 230-Footer Sold in Secretive Deal

Lurssen is one of the most reputable superyacht builders, with a history dating back to 1875, and a jaw-dropping portfolio. But what gave the German shipyard a unique status, even among the top names in the industry, is its reputation for launching some of the most special, bespoke pleasure craft owned by famous billionaires. Paul Allen's infamous Octopus, Larry Ellison's Rising Sun, and the world's largest superyacht today, Azzam (180 meters/590 feet), are just some of Lurssen's masterpieces.

Lurssen never plays small. Its highly intricate, innovative, and 100% custom builds start at 60 meters (196.8 feet). Combining a 70-meter length (230 feet) with a whopping volume of 1,938 GT, Saint Nicolas is one of the largest superyachts in terms of volume ever launched by the German brand. It's not a young vessel (it was delivered in 2007), but it continues to be one of the most impressive in its size category.

Saint Nicolas is a jaw-dropper due to its sheer size. We can easily picture it dwarfing all other boats wherever it docks. For those onboard, it's a floating palace in the true sense of the word. Six huge decks offer outstanding accommodation and resort-like outdoor spaces. A 21-person crew is enough to make everyone feel as if they were onboard a private cruise ship. As for the interiors, only true lovers of classic style will be able to fully appreciate the ornate, precious elegance.

This mammoth vessel's huge volume also translates to unprecedented headroom throughout. It does feel like being inside a palace at sea when you’ve got more than 7.5 feet (2.3 meters) of headroom anywhere on board. It's the result of a perfect collaboration between Lurssen and the legendary Espen Oeino. Back in 2007, Oeino designed a mini-series of three yachts for Lurssen, one of which would later become Saint Nicolas.

American mogul Warren E. Halle reportedly commissioned the three yachts, not because he wanted to own all three at the same time, but because he planned to flip them. Indeed, he sold the first one in the series, Apoise, for more than $65 million in 2006. The second one, Project Nemo, was sold a year after delivery in 2008, reportedly for €71,5 million. As for the third one, Martha Ann, Halle didn't sell it, instead keeping it for himself.

The one who paid more than $70 million for Project Nemo and renamed it Saint Nicolas was Vasily Anisimov, a Russian real estate mogul and head of the Russian Judo Federation (until 2022). Saint Nicholas, one of the most beloved saints in the Christian Orthodox faith, also happens to be the patron saint of sailors. Plus, Anisimov's son was also named Nicholas, reportedly. Even today, guests onboard Saint Nicolas can admire a large holy icon of this patron saint in the main salon.

The Russian billionaire enjoyed his opulent superyacht in total privacy for an entire decade. In 2017, the 70-meter Lurssen entered the market and was sold a year later for nearly $50 million. Just before that, it had completed a comprehensive refit. In 2016, its hull and superstructure were repainted, all the mechanical and technical components were overhauled, and the main systems onboard were upgraded.

The yacht also completed its ten-year Lloyd's class survey, confirming its seaworthiness. At the same time, Saint Nicolas was used only privately throughout its entire life and has even had the same Captain since 2008. It's safe to say it is in excellent condition, which is why finding a new owner wasn't hard. The superyacht was recently sold in an in-house deal, which means neither the final price nor the new owner's name was disclosed.

The mysterious new owner will enjoy one of the most impressive Lurssen builds with a family-friendly layout. Unlike similar pleasure craft, Saint Nicolas boasts six double staterooms, two of which include extra bunk beds for kids. There's also a seventh cabin, specifically for nannies or other staff members.

The master bedroom on the main deck includes a private study and an exclusive observation lounge. Plus, the yacht's huge crew also gets to enjoy a bit more comfort than what typical yachts offer, including its own gym.

With six decks connected by a modern elevator, this floating palace offers vast options for entertainment and dining, both indoors and outdoors. The upper deck sports a fabulous counter-current swimming pool and a wet bar. The sundeck is a sun lover's heaven with numerous sun loungers and relaxation options. Its updated toy box includes a sports tender and a luxurious limo tender.

While regular maintenance and constant upgrades brought Saint Nicolas to contemporary standards, its classic-style interiors create the illusion of a historic palace. Francois Zuretti, another big name in the superyacht industry, created a memorable, ultra-sophisticated ambiance on board. Exquisite elements, such as engraved glass and marble inlays, reflect the designer's signature style, along with the use of rare, expensive materials – palm, mother-of-pearl, bamboo, and buffalo hide.

The gigantic floating mansion can also handle extensive cruising. Twin Caterpillar engines propel it at a moderate speed of 13 knots (15 mph/24 kph), allowing it to cover more than 4,000 nautical miles (7,400 km).

Never chartered, this beautiful vessel will most likely continue to be a rare sight, and of the many secretive luxury toys owned by billionaires who prefer to be discrete.

No matter how or when it changes hands, Saint Nicolas remains a star piece in Lurssen's formidable portfolio as one of the most voluminous superyachts in its category, boasting the proportions and opulence of a true palace on the water.