yacht phi

The Stunning Ritz Carlton EVRIMA Yacht

Gliding Across Tokyo’s Sumida River: The Mesmerizing Zipper Boat

CROCUS Yacht: An 48 Meter Beauty by Admiral

PHI Yacht – Royal Huisman’s $45 Million Superyacht

• Zuretti Interior Design
• Zuretti Interior
• Zuccon International Project
• Ziyad al Manaseer
• Zaniz Interiors. Kutayba Alghanim
• Yuriy Kosiuk
• Yuri Milner
• Yersin Yacht

• Superyachts

The world of luxury yachts is a realm of opulence, innovation, and stunning design. In this exclusive domain, the PHI yacht stands as a testament to the zenith of nautical engineering and elegance.

Delivered in 2021 by the esteemed Royal Huisman shipyard, this masterpiece of the sea embodies a harmonious blend of cutting-edge technology, unparalleled comfort, and striking aesthetics.

Designed by the globally renowned Cor D. Rover Design, the PHI yacht is undeniably a breathtaking spectacle in the world of luxury yachts.

Design and Specifications: Unveiling the Art of Yachting

Stretching over 58 meters (191 feet), the PHI yacht encapsulates a sleek and modern design philosophy, characterized by its minimalist style and refined clean lines.

Adorned with a striking metallic gold exterior, the yacht asserts a unique and attention-grabbing persona on the seascape. But it’s not just about looks; it’s about performance too.

Under the hood, the yacht is powered by robust MTU engines, allowing it to reach a maximum speed of 22 knots and cruise comfortably at 14 knots.

With an impressive range exceeding 4,000 nautical miles, the luxury motor yacht PHI emerges as a prime choice for enthusiasts of long journeys and extended voyages.

Whether you’re exploring coastal paradises or embarking on transoceanic adventures, PHI is more than up to the task.

Impeccable Interiors: A Haven of Luxury and Comfort

The interiors of the PHI yacht are a sight to behold. Crafted to leave onlookers spellbound, its design ethos focuses on creating spacious and cozy settings, bathed in natural light and open spaces, conducive to relaxation and conviviality.

The yacht can comfortably host up to 12 guests in six opulent cabins, each with its private en-suite bathroom. However, the pièce de résistance is the master suite, boasting its private deck and panoramic ocean vistas.

Imagine waking up to the gentle caress of sea breezes and the soothing sound of waves; it’s an experience beyond compare.

To ensure a seamless voyage, a dedicated crew area provides comfortable accommodation for up to 11 crew members.

Equipped with all the contemporary amenities, including advanced entertainment systems, high-speed internet, and a variety of water sports equipment, the yacht PHI promises an unforgettable journey.

The PHI Yacht: Redefining Luxury Yachting

Whether it’s an opulent escape with loved ones or a private romantic retreat, the yacht PHI, a true masterpiece of design and engineering, guarantees a one-of-a-kind experience.

Its striking exterior design and luxurious interiors provide an unmatched yachting experience. From hosting lavish parties to intimate family gatherings, PHI caters to every whim and fancy of its fortunate guests.

PHI Yacht: An Investment of Luxury

PHI comes with a significant price tag, valued at an estimated $45 million. Her annual operational costs hover around $5 million.

However, the price of a yacht can greatly fluctuate depending on various factors such as its size, age, level of luxury, as well as the materials and technology employed in its construction.

Royal Huisman: Crafting Dreams into Reality

Royal Huisman, the Dutch shipyard behind the creation of PHI, is a name synonymous with excellence in yacht design and construction.

Founded in 1884, the shipyard has been at the forefront of luxury sailing yachts and motor yachts for over a century. Based in Vollenhove, Netherlands, Royal Huisman is considered one of the most prestigious and respected shipyards in the world.

Their commitment to craftsmanship, innovation, and attention to detail is evident in every project they undertake. Notable projects in their portfolio include Athena, Sea Eagle, and, of course, PHI.

PHI yacht summary

The PHI yacht is more than just a vessel; it’s a work of art, a symbol of luxury, and a source of intrigue.

From its stunning design and impeccable interiors to the ownership controversies that surround it, PHI encapsulates the essence of the world of luxury yachts.

As we continue to be enthralled by the mysteries and marvels of the yachting industry, PHI stands as a testament to the enduring allure of the open sea and the boundless possibilities of human ingenuity.

Do you have anything to add to this listing?

Love yachts join us., related posts.

I DYNASTY Yacht – World-class $200M Superyacht

TALITHA Yacht – Spectacular $50M Superyacht

ULYSSES Yacht – World-class $250 Million Superyacht

PALLADIUM Yacht – Impressive $200M Superyacht

Find anything, super fast.

• Destinations
• Documentaries

Motor Yacht

PHI is a custom motor yacht due to launch in 2021 by Royal Huisman .

NO ORDINARY CUSTOM SHIPYARD

PHI measures 58.5 metres in length.

PHI has an aluminium hull.

Her interior design is by Lawson Robb.

PHI also features naval architecture by Van Oossanen Naval Architects.

Performance and Capabilities

PHI has a top speed of 22.00 knots. .

Accommodation

PHI accommodates up to 12 guests . She also houses room for up to 11 crew members.

Other Specifications

PHI has a hull NB of 403.

• Yacht Builder Royal Huisman No profile available
• Naval Architect Van Oossanen Naval Architects View profile
• Exterior Designer Cor D. Rover No profile available
• Interior Designer Lawson Robb No profile available

Yacht Specs

Other royal huisman yachts, related news.

PHI Royal Huisman

• Inspiration

PHI has 56 Photos

Royal Huisman superyacht PHI delivery ...

Similar yachts.

PURPOSE | From EUR€ 270,000/wk

• Yachts >
• All Yachts >
• All Motor Yachts Over 100ft/30m >

If you have any questions about the PHI information page below please contact us .

Motor yacht PHI, measuring 55 metres (180’) is a result of collaboration between the highly respected Dutch shipyard, Royal Huisman, the exterior designer Cor D. Rover, the interior designed Lawson Robb as well as Van Oossanen Naval Architects for naval architecture. With delivery in 2021, this ‘Fast Displacement XL ® by Van Oossanen’ motor yacht is able to accommodate up to 12 guests in 6 staterooms and has a crew of 11.

NOTABLE FEATURES: ~ innovative fast-displacement hull form ~ forward-thinking design elements throughout ~ technological innovations

PHI Specifications

The yacht name, PHI comes from the ‘Sectio Divina’ Latin expression, which means the ‘golden ratio’ and refers to the formula that governs the continuation of dimensions and shapes in natural proportions throughout the design. Try to her name, the yacht features highly innovative well-proportioned design elements resulting in a beautiful, modern superyacht.

The interiors created by Lawson Robb follow the principles of Phi and incorporate highly personalised and innovative design ideas. PHI has been created with the above-mentioned ‘Fast Displacement XL ® by Van Oossanen’ with a maximum speed of 22 knots. She is equipped with gyro-stabilisers and weights under 500GT.

Yacht Accommodation

12 guests accommodated in 6 cabins

Amenities and Extras

We do have available further amenity, owner and price information for the 55m (180') yacht PHI, so please enquire for more information.

PHI Disclaimer:

The luxury yacht PHI displayed on this page is merely informational and she is not necessarily available for yacht charter or for sale, nor is she represented or marketed in anyway by CharterWorld. This web page and the superyacht information contained herein is not contractual. All yacht specifications and informations are displayed in good faith but CharterWorld does not warrant or assume any legal liability or responsibility for the current accuracy, completeness, validity, or usefulness of any superyacht information and/or images displayed. All boat information is subject to change without prior notice and may not be current.

Quick Enquiry

"Royal Huisman is an extraordinary blend of 21st century technology and innovation, traditional craftsmanship and timeless values. The combining factor between employees, the yard as well as customers? They are perfectionists." - Royal Huisman, Holland

NEXT CHAPTER | From US$ 325,000/wk

TURQUOISE | From US$ 300,000/wk

AFTER YOU | From US$ 350,000/wk

PHI TURNING HEADS

The 58.5m / 192ft motoryacht PHI, under power and turning heads: developed and constructed to remain below 500GT, she is by far the longest motoryacht in this category, worldwide, based on current Classification rules.

PHI – length overall: 58.5m / 192ft – gross tonnage: below 500 GT – hull and superstructure: aluminium – general concept, exterior design & interior layout: Cor D. Rover – interior design: Lawson Robb – naval architecture: Van Oossanen Naval Architects – project management / owner’s representative: Guy Booth – builder: Royal Huisman (2021)

“With such a powerful vision, a demand for the absolute highest level of quality available anywhere and such difficult engineering challenges, Royal Huisman were clearly the best partner to build the boat.”

Guy booth –  owner’s representative and project management.

PHI: 20+ knots during second trial on the North Sea (wind: Bft 5 and waves up to 1.4m / 5ft). PHI’s normal cruising speed is 12 knots and her maximum is over 22 knots.

“As a naval architect you are always looking to make something more efficient, more comfortable. One of the first things you learn about as a naval architect is the length / displacement ratio. If you make a boat longer without making it heavier it becomes so much more efficient and more comfortable. It improves all aspects.” explains Perry van Oossanen, PHI’s naval architect, during The Superyacht Forum 2021.

“PHI is 30% more efficient than a traditional 500GT motor yacht. I hope this new hull shape is more than a niche, it’s a new direction for the market. In order to gain the reductions in greenhouse gases we need to achieve, it could be a valuable step.” Perry van Oossanen adds.

Guy Booth continues: “At 22 knots you can barely hear the engines anywhere inside. You wouldn’t know you were moving unless you looked out of the window. Something of this size moving at 22 knots in silence was quite weird. It feels like you are stationary until you look out of the window and see everything flying past.”

PHI departs from Vollenhove

Royal Huisman project 403, PHI, has departed from the shipyard’s newbuild facilities in Vollenhove and is on her way to Royal Huisman Amsterdam to start sea trials. See the video and more photos in the annouoncement dated 26 October 2021 “PHI departs from Vollenhove” at this website: News > Announcements [click here]

PHI and the Golden Ratio

PHI is a magnificently sensuous motor yacht from the drawing board of Cor D. Rover, who has based the general concept, exterior design and interior layout on many in-depth conversations with the owner over a period of years. Relating inside and outside to the ”sectio divina” or the Golden Ratio, PHI is the formula that governs the continuation of dimensions and shapes in natural proportions throughout the design. Read much more about PHI’s design philosophy in the press release “PHI: the world’s longest motoryacht below 500GT” at this website: News > Announcements  [click here]

Complementing motoryacht PHI will be a 36m / 118ft shadow vessel, PHI Phantom, which is constructed at Alia Yachts. Carrying the same DNA as her bigger “beauty queen” sister, PHI Phantom is the hard working sibling. Both will have Cor D. Rover styling and a patented Van Oossanen Fast Displacement Hull, but her “make-up” will be a no-filler-matt-finish (albeit in the same color scheme as her big show-off sister).

“PHI would need to be a 90m project in order to deliver the same functions on board one yacht”

“PHI Phantom has been built to carry a 12m / 39ft and 14m / 46ft tender, an 8m / 26ft sailing boat, six jet skis, a car and 60,000 litres of surplus fuel for the mothership, as well as bicycles, motorbikes, spare parts and a vast amount of storage and refrigeration.”

A report into the support vessel concept: “Are two boats better value than one?” Read much more in this article by The Superyacht Owner Report at this website: News > Inhuis [click here]

“Just take a look at our two current motoryacht projects: project 403, PHI, and project 406, a unique 52m / 171ft sportfish yacht. The individual aspirations and challenges of each of these projects were seen to be well outside the comfort zone by some yards.” comments Jan Timmerman (CEO Royal Huisman):

Read more in the annouoncement dated 22 July 2021 “PHI is ready to shine” at this website: News > Announcements [click here]

• Motorcycles
• Car of the Month
• Destinations
• Men’s Fashion
• Watch Collector
• Art & Collectibles
• Vacation Homes
• Celebrity Homes
• New Construction
• Home Design
• Electronics
• Fine Dining
• Baja Bay Club
• Costa Palmas
• Fairmont Doha
• Four Seasons
• Four Seasons Private Residences Dominican Republic at Tropicalia
• Jacob Cohën
• Reynolds Lake Oconee
• Wilson Audio
• 672 Wine Club
• Sports & Leisure
• Health & Wellness
• Best of the Best
• The Ultimate Gift Guide

The UK Has Seized a 192-Foot Russian Superyacht Worth $50 Million

The move has been labeled "a clear and stark warning to putin and his cronies.", rachel cormack.

Digital Editor

Rachel Cormack's Most Recent Stories

This new 220-foot custom superyacht is topped with an epic jacuzzi.

• Cillian Murphy Is Now the Face of Versace Menswear
• Parmigiani Fleurier’s Tonda Perpetual Calendar Just Got a Gorgeous New Green Dial
• Share This Article

Shortly after impounding a private je t with suspected links to a Russian billionaire, the UK has seized a $50 million superyacht owned by an unnamed Russian.

The vessel in question, which goes by the name of Phi , was detained in London’s Canary Warf as part of the sanctions imposed against Russia for its attack on Ukraine, as reported by the National Crime Agency (NCA).

Related Stories

• The Mercedes G-Wagen Is the Least Eco-Friendly Car on the Market, a New Study Says
• The Newest Nissan GT-R Could Also Be the Last
• ‘People Don’t Want to Be Inside’: How the Outdoors Became Yachtmakers’ Most Coveted Design Element

Like the US and Europe, the UK has introduced a number of different sanctions against Russian oligarchs and businesses to increase economic pressure on Putin and the Kremlin. However, this is the first superyacht the country has seized. It also marks the first detention of a superyacht in UK waters.

Transport secretary Grant Shapps said “Phi” won’t be going anywhere for the time being.  National Crime Agency

It’s a beauty, too. The handiwork of Royal Huisman, the blue 192-footer was named after a mathematical concept known as the golden ratio, which is said to reflect natural order and beauty. And among its amenities, the boat is equipped with an “infinite wine cellar” and a penthouse apartment on the upper deck.

The third-largest vessel in the Dutch yard’s fleet, Phi made its maiden voyage from the Netherlands to London last December. It was docked at Canary Wharf for a superyacht awards ceremony and was due to depart the capital at noon on Tuesday before NCA officers issued the notice of detention.

NCA Officers boarded the superyacht on Tuesday and issued the notice of detention.  National Crime Agency

Phi was first flagged as potentially belonging to a Russian on March 13, but the superyacht’s ownership has been “deliberately well hidden,” according to the government. Indeed, the company Phi is registered to is based in the Caribbean islands yet the ship carried a Maltese flag.

The Department for Transport (DfT) did not say why it is not naming the individual who owns the yacht, though transport secretary Grant Shapps said the move was “a clear and stark warning to Putin and his cronies.”

“The ship won’t be going anywhere for the time being,” he added. “People who have benefitted from [Putin’s] regime cannot benefit from sailing around London and the UK in ships like this.”

The UK government says it is now looking at a number of other vessels. It’s not alone in its efforts, either. Italy , France and Finland have also recently impounded an array of Russian-owned superyachts.

Rachel Cormack is a digital editor at Robb Report. She cut her teeth writing for HuffPost, Concrete Playground, and several other online publications in Australia, before moving to New York at the…

Read More On:

• Royal Huisman Yachts
• United Kingdom

More Marine

This Custom 112-Foot Trideck Superyacht Feels Bigger Than It Actually Is

Azimut’s New 72-Foot Yacht Has One of the Largest Flybridges in Its Class. We Hopped Onboard.

You Can Charter Lürssen’s New 400-Foot Gigayacht for $3.3 Million a Week

Culinary Masters 2024

MAY 17 - 19 Join us for extraordinary meals from the nation’s brightest culinary minds.

Give the Gift of Luxury

Latest Galleries in Marine

‘Lady A’ Superyacht in Photos

8 Fascinating Facts About ‘Kokomo,’ the Lightning-Fast 192-Foot Sailing Superyacht

More from our brands, exclusive: kourtney kardashian barker talks lemme’s recent target launch ahead of celebratory star-studded brunch, angel city for sale: nwsl’s most valuable team seeks new owner, country singer jimmie allen settles with accuser in sexual assault lawsuit, andy warhol museum director patrick moore to resign amid scrutiny over pop district project, the best yoga mats for any practice, according to instructors.

Please use a modern browser to view this website. Some elements might not work as expected when using Internet Explorer.

• Landing Page
• Luxury Yacht Vacation Types
• Corporate Yacht Charter
• Tailor Made Vacations
• Luxury Exploration Vacations
• View All 3565
• Motor Yachts
• Sailing Yachts
• Classic Yachts
• Catamaran Yachts
• Filter By Destination
• More Filters
• Latest Reviews
• Charter Special Offers
• Destination Guides
• Inspiration & Features
• Mediterranean Charter Yachts
• France Charter Yachts
• Italy Charter Yachts
• Croatia Charter Yachts
• Greece Charter Yachts
• Turkey Charter Yachts
• Bahamas Charter Yachts
• Caribbean Charter Yachts
• Australia Charter Yachts
• Thailand Charter Yachts
• Dubai Charter Yachts
• Destination News
• New To Fleet
• Charter Fleet Updates
• Special Offers
• Industry News
• Yacht Shows
• Corporate Charter
• Finding a Yacht Broker
• Charter Preferences
• Questions & Answers
• Add my yacht

NOT FOR CHARTER *

This Yacht is not for Charter*

SIMILAR YACHTS FOR CHARTER

View Similar Yachts

Or View All luxury yachts for charter

• Luxury Charter Yachts
• Motor Yachts for Charter
• Amenities & Toys

PHI yacht NOT for charter*

58.5m  /  191'11 | royal huisman | 2021.

Owner & Guests

• Previous Yacht

Special Features:

• Generous pool
• ABS (American Bureau of Shipping) ✠A1, Commercial Yachting Service, Ⓔ, (✠)AMS classification
• Sleeps 12 overnight
• Able to access shallow bays and coves

The 58.5m/191'11" motor yacht 'Phi' was built by Royal Huisman in the Netherlands at their Vollenhove shipyard and she was delivered to her owner in December 2021. This luxury vessel's exterior design is the work of Cor D. Rover Design.

Guest Accommodation

Phi has been designed to comfortably accommodate up to 12 guests in 6 suites. She is also capable of carrying up to 11 crew onboard to ensure a relaxed luxury yacht experience.

Onboard Comfort & Entertainment

Her features include beauty salon and air conditioning.

Range & Performance

Phi is built with a aluminium hull and aluminium superstructure, with teak decks. Powered by twin diesel MTU (12V 2000 M96L) 12-cylinder 1,947hp engines running at 2450rpm, she comfortably cruises at 17 knots, reaches a maximum speed of 22 knots. Her low draft of 2.15m/7'1" makes her primed for accessing shallow areas and cruising close to the shorelines. Phi features at-anchor stabilizers providing exceptional comfort levels. She was built to ABS (American Bureau of Shipping) ✠A1, Commercial Yachting Service, Ⓔ, (✠)AMS classification society rules, and is MCA Compliant.

*Charter Phi Motor Yacht

Motor yacht Phi is currently not believed to be available for private Charter. To view similar yachts for charter , or contact your Yacht Charter Broker for information about renting a luxury charter yacht.

Phi Yacht Owner, Captain or marketing company

'Yacht Charter Fleet' is a free information service, if your yacht is available for charter please contact us with details and photos and we will update our records.

NOTE to U.S. Customs & Border Protection

Specification

M/Y Phi

SIMILAR LUXURY YACHTS FOR CHARTER

Here are a selection of superyachts which are similar to Phi yacht which are believed to be available for charter. To view all similar luxury charter yachts click on the button below.

53m | Radez

from $137,000 p/week ♦︎

55m | Alia Yacht

from $350,000 p/week ♦︎

55m | Amels

from $295,000 p/week

55m | Custom

from $142,000 p/week ♦︎

63m | Benetti

56m | Hargrave

from $350,000 p/week

54m | Baglietto

POA ♦︎

from $340,000 p/week

60m | Amels

from $395,000 p/week

from $300,000 p/week

55m | Admiral Yachts

from $365,000 p/week ♦︎

55m | Heesen

from $400,000 p/week

As Featured In

The YachtCharterFleet Difference

YachtCharterFleet makes it easy to find the yacht charter vacation that is right for you. We combine thousands of yacht listings with local destination information, sample itineraries and experiences to deliver the world's most comprehensive yacht charter website.

San Francisco

• Like us on Facebook
• Follow us on Twitter
• Follow us on Instagram
• Find us on LinkedIn
• Add My Yacht
• Affiliates & Partners

Popular Destinations & Events

• St Tropez Yacht Charter
• Monaco Yacht Charter
• St Barts Yacht Charter
• Greece Yacht Charter
• Mykonos Yacht Charter
• Caribbean Yacht Charter

Featured Charter Yachts

• Maltese Falcon Yacht Charter
• Wheels Yacht Charter
• Victorious Yacht Charter
• Andrea Yacht Charter
• Titania Yacht Charter
• Ahpo Yacht Charter

Receive our latest offers, trends and stories direct to your inbox.

Please enter a valid e-mail.

Thanks for subscribing.

Search for Yachts, Destinations, Events, News... everything related to Luxury Yachts for Charter.

Yachts in your shortlist

• Yachts for sale
• Yachts for charter
• Brokerage News

• Yacht Harbour

Contact agent

Specifications, similar yachts.

New listings

The global authority in superyachting

• NEWSLETTERS
• Yachts Home
• The Superyacht Directory
• Yacht Reports
• Brokerage News
• The largest yachts in the world
• The Register
• Yacht Advice
• Yacht Design
• 12m to 24m yachts
• Monaco Yacht Show
• Builder Directory
• Designer Directory
• Interior Design Directory
• Naval Architect Directory
• Yachts for sale home
• Motor yachts
• Sailing yachts
• Explorer yachts
• Classic yachts
• Sale Broker Directory
• Charter Home
• Yachts for Charter
• Charter Destinations
• Charter Broker Directory
• Destinations Home
• Mediterranean
• South Pacific
• Rest of the World
• Boat Life Home
• Owners' Experiences
• Interiors Suppliers
• Owners' Club
• Captains' Club
• BOAT Showcase
• Boat Presents
• Events Home
• World Superyacht Awards
• Superyacht Design Festival
• Design and Innovation Awards
• Young Designer of the Year Award
• Artistry and Craft Awards
• Explorer Yachts Summit
• Ocean Talks
• The Ocean Awards
• BOAT Connect
• Between the bays
• Golf Invitational
• Boat Pro Home
• Pricing Plan
• Superyacht Insight
• Product Features
• Premium Content
• Testimonials
• Global Order Book
• Tenders & Equipment

In pictures: Shadow vessel Phi Phantom delivered

Turkish yard Alia Yachts has delivered the 36 metre shadow vessel Phi Phantom, which will accompany  Royal Huisman’s 55 metre Project Phi .

Described by the yard as a "beautifully sculpted workhorse", the yacht was first announced at the 2019 Monaco Yacht Show and is designed by Cor D Rover, with naval architecture by Van Oossanen .

It features the same design team that has penned the 55 metre superyacht Project Phi, which recently undertook sea trials .

Sporting a fast displacement hull form, the shadow vessel will be used for transporting toys and tenders, as well as a small car and extra fuel for the mothership. It will also feature a large laundry and additional crew accommodation inside the 199GT interior.

Additional features include a 157 square metre cargo deck, 45 square metre lazarette and 33 square metre workshop.

Speaking about the shadow yacht, designer Cor D Rover said: “The exterior styling of Phi Phantom has everything to do with her mothership Phi and at the same time she is really and literally a shadow of the longer beauty queen.”

To achieve this, Rover looked at the "design DNA" of the mothership Phi, which includes "organically curved sheerlines, contrasting black and blue surfaces, and sharp-edged and curved wing stations.:

"As much as we were able to, given the constraints, we applied this DNA to Phi Phantom," he said. 

Among the toys and tenders stored on the 150 square metre aft deck is a 12.3 motor yacht named Spirit of Phi built by UK yard Spirit Yachts, which is a "heavily customised version" of the yard's P40 model in wood. Elsewhere, Phi Phantom transports a small sailing boat, electric car and Jet Skis, as well as bikes, boards and an inflatable slide. 

“We are so proud to see Phi Phantom floating,” said Gökhan Çelik, president of Alia Yachts. “The very engaged owner has worked with us every step of the way, giving us the support we needed to complete some very specific requests, including that requirement to use no filler on the hull."

Power comes from twin CAT C-32 engines for a top speed of 21 knots and cruising speed of 11 knots, resulting in a range of over 6,000 nautical miles.

More about this yacht

More stories, most popular, from our partners, sponsored listings.

• International edition
• Australia edition
• Europe edition

Russian tycoon suing UK government for return of £38m superyacht

Sergei Georgievich Naumenko, who is not on sanctions list, is also seeking damages in high court claim

A Russian tycoon is suing the UK government over the seizure of his £38m superyacht in London shortly after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine last year.

Sergei Georgievich Naumenko, a property developer who is not on the UK’s Russia sanctions list, has filed a high court claim against the Department for Transport (DfT) demanding it free his 58.5-metre (192ft) superyacht Phi and pay damages.

The seizure of the vessel in March 2022 was announced by the then transport secretary, Grant Shapps, who said impounding it had “turned an icon of Russia’s power and wealth into a clear and stark warning to [Vladimir] Putin and his cronies”.

“Detaining the Phi proves, yet again, that we can and will take the strongest possible action against those seeking to benefit from connections to Putin’s regime,” Shapps added.

Officers from the National Crime Agency boarded the vessel in March 2022 in Canary Wharf, where it has remained detained ever since.

At the time, the government said the law used to detain the vessel did not require proof or suspicion that the owner was closely tied to the Putin regime, merely that they were a Russian national.

The vessel had been in London for a World Superyacht awards judging panel event , which was held at the five-star Bulgari hotel in Knightsbridge.

A judge has overseen a preliminary high court hearing and heard arguments from lawyers representing Naumenko and the transport secretary, Mark Harper.

In a preliminary hearing, Mr Justice Chamberlain said: “Following the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the National Crime Agency and Border Force maritime intelligence bureau investigated vessels with connections to Russia. The Phi was identified as a vessel of interest.

“On 28 March 2022, the then secretary of state, the Rt Hon Grant Shapps MP, exercised powers … to detain the Phi, on the grounds that it was owned, controlled or operated by a person connected with Russia.”

Chamberlain said a “substantive hearing” to decide the fate of the yacht would take place in July.

A spokesperson for the DfT said the department would not comment on active legal proceedings.

after newsletter promotion

The seizure of the yacht came as the UK government was under pressure to take more definitive action against wealthy Russians. The US and European governments have detained dozens of superyachts owned by high-profile Russian oligarchs who are under sanctions. The total value of seized superyachts is thought to now exceed $4bn (£3.2bn).

The Phi is the third biggest yacht built by the shipbuilders Royal Huisman and includes what the builders call an “infinite wine cellar” and patented fresh-water swimming pool.

Guy Booth, a New Zealander based in Brighton, is the captain of Phi and has posted several pictures of the vessel on his Instagram feed.

Booth, an experienced superyacht mariner, was appointed as “owner’s representative” and “build captain” to oversee the construction of the yacht in 2019, according to his LinkedIn profile. He did not respond to requests for comment on the identity of the owner.

Booth has previously said the owner proposed “thousands of crazy ideas” for what he wanted from the yacht, including a “penthouse” apartment on the upper deck.

Most viewed