Superyachts connected to Russian oligarchs were in the spotlight for most of 2022, when the international sanctions against Russia following the invasion of Ukraine launched a real hunt for these controversial luxury assets. Some of the sanctioned oligarchs lost their incredibly opulent pleasure craft, others managed to hold on to them, while others decided to part with them. The infamous Ragnar is among those that will be starting a new chapter.
Ragnar was one of the most impressive superyachts in operation even before the events that shined a light on all Russian-owned vessels. The Viking warrior king’s name was a perfect match. Originally a supply ship, Ragnar was converted in 2012 and completely rebuilt in 2020. Although transformed into a highly-luxurious private explorer, Ragnar didn’t try to hide its origins. Instead, it kept the ɾօυɢҺ, industrial appearance that makes it instantly recognizable to this day.
At 224 feet (68 meters), Ragnar is absolutely massive. Its hull is nearly indestructible, integrating an outer and an inner shell, with an air gap between them. It combines the ice-breaking capabilities of a rugged explorer with diesel-electric propulsion and a surplus of power that keep it self-sufficient for extєɴԀed periods of time.
At the same time, it’s as sophisticated as it gets, boasting fancy features like a certified helipad, a swimming pool and a jacuzzi, an observation lounge, a large salon with a fireplace, and a well-equipped gym.
According to Charlier Baker from the acclaimed RWD studio,Ragnar’s interior was inspired by luxury sky chalets and Scottish castles. Indeed, cruising onboard Ragnar is like enjoying a floating mansion on the way to incredibly remote places like Antarctica.
The one who decided to convert a rugged commercial vessel into a highly-luxurious explorer was Vladimir Strzhalkovskiy, known as a former KGB officer who later held top government positions and made a fortune in the metal industry.
After the invasion of Ukraine and the sanctions that followed, Ragnarcame into the spotlighteven though its owner was not officially among the sanctioned oligarchs. It made headlines in the spring of 2022 when it got stuck in Norway because local suppliers refused to refuel it as a protest against the Russian invasion.
Today, all that is behind it. After becoming infamous worldwide, the ɾօυɢҺ-looking Ragnar has now cut its ties to the original owner. The superyacht was sold for €69,5 million ($75.8 million) to a new mysterious owner. One thing’s for sure – this is one of the biggest sales on the superyacht market this year.Ragnarwill most likely continue the successful charter career it had before the war. As for its controversial original owner, he will most likely get a new, shiny toy. After all, according to statistics, Russians are still the world’s number one superyacht owners.
