Sanctioned Russian-linked superyacht crosses Strait of Hormuz

The superyacht Nord, linked to Russian billionaire Alexey Mordashov, has transited the strategically critical Strait of Hormuz despite ongoing tensions and restricted maritime traffic in the region.

The 142-meter vessel sailed from Dubai to Muscat over the weekend, arriving at Al Mouj marina on Sunday, according to shipping data, cited by BBC. It is among the few private vessels to pass through the strait in recent months, as most maritime traffic remains significantly below normal levels.

The passage comes amid a standoff between Iran and the United States after Donald Trump announced a blockade of Iranian ports. In response, Iran has continued to restrict shipping through the waterway, which typically handles about one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas supplies.

The ongoing conflict has driven energy prices higher, with Brent crude rising to $109 per barrel earlier this week.

Although Mordashov is not formally listed as the yacht’s owner, records indicate the vessel is registered to a company owned by his wife. The yacht is estimated to be worth more than $500 million and is equipped with luxury features including a swimming pool, helipad and submarine.

Mordashov, chairman of Severstal, has been sanctioned by Western governments following Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Despite calls to seize his assets, jurisdictions such as Hong Kong and the Maldives have not detained the vessel.

It remains unclear whether Mordashov was on board during the voyage.

The transit also coincides with intensified diplomatic engagement between Moscow and Tehran. Vladimir Putin hosted Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in St Petersburg, where both sides emphasised strengthening their strategic partnership amid ongoing regional tensions.

By Tamilla Hasanova