The superyacht Andromeda is currently anchored off Funchal, in front of Lazareto, attracting attention due to its size and the unusual history of its owner. The arrival in the Portuguese sea highlighted a vessel valued at more than 200 million euros, associated with one of the most discreet names in the business world.
With more than a hundred meters in length, Andromeda is part of the restricted group of yachts designed for large ocean crossings, combining high autonomy with technical solutions designed for long periods on the open sea. According to Diário de Notícias, it is a ship prepared to travel up to 8,500 nautical miles without the need for refueling.
Project designed to cross oceans
The yacht was built in Norway by the Kleven shipyard, recognized for large projects aimed at demanding navigation. According to the same source, the vessel was launched in 2015 and completed the following year, having initially been commissioned by New Zealand businessman Graeme Hart.
At this stage, the ship had a different name and a different usage profile, even though it already incorporated technical solutions aimed at long-term trips. The newspaper writes that structural robustness has been one of the central elements of the project since its conception.
Change of hands and identity
In 2017, the yacht was sold and was renamed Andromeda, entering the sphere of Yuri Milner, a businessman linked to the technology sector. It should be noted that Milner is the founder of Digital Sky Technologies and was involved in international scientific initiatives, including collaborations with physicist Stephen Hawking.
The change of ownership coincided with a new public stance by the businessman, especially from 2022 onwards. The publication adds that Milner publicly opposed Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, a decision that would have repercussions on his personal and legal situation.
The decision to renounce Russian citizenship
In a context of strong international exposure, Yuri Milner announced his renunciation of Russian nationality. The same source reports that the businessman revealed that he left Russia in 2014, after the annexation of Crimea, later completing the formal process of abandoning his citizenship.
This position was made public through social media, where he explained that the decision involved the entire family. According to the newspaper, this personal journey helps to understand the discreet way in which the businessman currently manages his most visible assets.
Life on board in concrete numbers
Returning to the yacht, know that Andromeda is prepared to receive up to 30 people, spread across 15 suites, including four VIP cabins. The permanent crew is made up of 22 members, ensuring the continuous operation of the vessel.
Among the available infrastructures are a swimming pool, cinema, gym, beauty salon and a wine bar. According to the same source, the yacht also has a landing platform for EC 145 or Bell 429 helicopters.
How much is it worth keeping a giant like this at sea?
The estimated value of Andromeda is around 213 million euros, plus annual operating costs of around 21 million. According to , these charges include maintenance, crew, fuel and logistics associated with long-distance operations.
The presence of the yacht in Funchal is part of a context of increasing visibility of Madeira as a transit point for large private vessels. The arrival of Andromeda reinforces this trend, placing the region once again on the radar of international luxury shipping.
Also read:
