At least two potential buyers are considering bids for a Soviet-era vessel known as "Stalin's yacht."

Azerbaijan's Caspian Shipping Company (CSC) might make an offer for the 69-metre ship (built 1934), known officially as Maxim Gorky.

Moscow River Shipping Company has decided to sell, for a reported RUB 20m ($355,000), due to the cost of its upkeep.

CSC told the Trend news agency: “There is such an intention.