The government is currently perusing several bids from a number of individuals
who wish to purchase the abandoned vessel, the Alfa Nero.
Chief of Staff in the Office of the Prime Minister Lionel Max Hurst revealed that
the bids indicate that there is serious interest by many individuals, to purchase the
vessel that has been moored in Antigua and Barbuda waters for over a year.
“Several bids have arrived by way of interest, FedEx and through DHL indicating
the interest of several persons wishing to acquire the Alfa Nero. Although the bid
is open to any amount, I have learned that there are two bids that have gained the
attention of the government. One is for US$53 million and the other for US$72
million. The yacht was built for a little more than US$81 million and although it
has fallen into disrepair, many still regard it as ‘a fine specimen’ of a vessel and
continue to show an interest in acquiring it for themselves,” he reported.
As of Monday (yesterday), Hurst further reported that an additional interest has
been expressed by others and at least one potential buyer has declared a
willingness to outbid the highest bidder, at the point of sale.
The Chief of Staff however, notes that since the bidding process is secretive the
identity of those who are desirous of purchasing the vessel will remain
confidential. He did advise that all the bids are from people living outside of
Antigua and Barbuda.
Hurst indicated that the decision is now for the government to go ahead with the
selection of the highest bidder and to consummate the sale of the Alfa Nero. That
is likely to happen shortly.
“Any day now we will notify the person with the highest bid that he/she has first
option to purchase the vessel. He/she then has 10 days and must provide the
financing to complete the sale. If that does not happen, the second highest bidder
will get an opportunity to purchase the vessel,” he explained.
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