Dutch superyacht builder Heesen Yachts has confirmed that its Russian owner Vagit Alekporov has been added to the UK’s list of sanctioned businessmen.

The Oss-based company said the move had no direct consequences for its business as Alkeporov is not currently sanctioned by the European Union and Heesen is a Dutch-registered limited company.

Alekporov, the president of Russian oil company Lukoil, succeeded Frans Heesen as one of the ‘ultimate beneficial owners’ of the yacht builder and has commissioned several vessels, including the €100 mn Galactica, for himself. The newly-built Galactica, currently docked in Harlingen, is undergoing finishing work.

Heesen has built boats for other Russian oligarchs who have since been sanctioned, including former Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich, who transferred ownership of several yachts including the Heesen-built Aquamarine on the day Vladimir Putin invaded Ukraine.

‘We are managed by a professional Management Board, with an independent Supervisory Board which appoints the Management Board members. Heesen only reports directly to its sole shareholder, Morcell Ltd,’ the company said in a statement.

‘Heesen’s management and employees are saddened by the ongoing situation in Ukraine and our thoughts are with its citizens and all those affected. We condemn violence in every form and hope for a fast end to the war.’