Roman Abramovich and his seemingly endless supply of money has transformed Chelsea into one of the top clubs in Europe and also one of the most financially powerful in the continent.
The Russian Solaris yacht is nearing completion in a German sh shipyard with the features set to outshine the former largest superyacht in the world, Eclipse which is also owned by Abramovich.
The 460ft Solaris, equipped with a helipad and swimming pool, will soon undertake sea trials before the 54-year-old Chelsea owner sets sail in the summer.
The Russian billionaire’s eight-deck yacht has been fitted with 48 cabins and is able to sleep 36 guests, as well as 60 crew.
Two high-tech electrical engines called Azipods will drive the colossal boat. The super-efficient propellers can turn through 360 degrees, providing incredible manoeuvrability, and render a rudder unnecessary.
The Chelsea owner’s fascination over yachts has been well documented since the Russian owns at least five other boats, the 162ft Sussurro, the 282ft Ecstasea, the Luna and the Pelorus, both 377ft, and the 371ft Grand Bleu.
The Chelsea chairman owns a 15-bedroom mansion in Kensington Palace Gardens on what is known as ‘billionaire’s row.’ He paid £90 million for the home which is now believed to be worth £125 million.
His smaller yachts have been loaned out to Chelsea legends when they managed to win silverware with the likes of Frank Lampard, John Terry and Didier Drogba getting their own time with the boats. They have also been known to have accompanied the owner on his boats during their time as players at the club.
