A Russian-linked luxury yacht has successfully crossed the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz despite ongoing maritime restrictions tied to regional tensions.
The 142-meter (465-foot) superyacht Nord, reportedly associated with Russian billionaire Alexei Mordashov, completed its journey from Dubai to Muscat over the weekend. According to maritime tracking data, the vessel departed Dubai on Friday night and arrived at Al Mouj Marina in Muscat on Sunday morning.
Valued at more than $500 million, the yacht is equipped with high-end amenities, including a swimming pool, a submarine, and a helipad, making it one of the most luxurious vessels to navigate the region in recent months.
The transit comes at a time when Iran has tightened oversight of shipping activity through the Strait of Hormuz following heightened tensions with the United States. Measures intensified after U.S. President Donald Trump announced a blockade targeting Iranian ports, raising concerns over freedom of navigation in one of the world’s most critical energy corridors.
Roughly one-fifth of global crude oil and liquefied natural gas supplies pass through the Strait of Hormuz, making any disruption a major concern for global markets. Oil prices have already reacted, with Brent crude climbing to around $109 per barrel.
Although Mordashov is not officially listed as the yacht’s owner, records indicate it was registered in 2022 to a company owned by his wife. The oligarch, chairman of Severstal, remains under sanctions imposed by the United States, the United Kingdom, and the European Union following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
