Legacy of excellence – A new hybrid Heesen

Project Orion exemplifies Heesen’s commitment to sustainable luxury, setting new standards in hybrid superyachting. Heesen’s commitment to finding hybrid solutions in superyacht design and engineering began with the delivery of the 50m Home in 2017. As the world’s first fast-displacement superyacht equipped with hybrid propulsion, Home set the benchmark for quieter, cleaner, and more fuel-efficient yachting. Her Fast Displacement Hull Form, crafted from lightweight aluminum, combined with hybrid propulsion, allowed her to cruise silently, using a mere 45 litres of fuel per hour at speeds of up to 9 knots. This remarkable efficiency was coupled with a gross tonnage of 499GT and a displacement of 295 tons. It made her a game-changer.

Following Home’s success, Heesen launched Project Electra, then named Amare II and recently renamed Danica. Like her sistership, she featured an interior by Cristiano Gatto and offered four distinct cruising modes: Hybrid, Economic, Cruising, and Boost. These innovations demonstrated Heesen’s ability to blend complex technology with user-friendly operation, delivering unparalleled benefits for both guests and the environment.

Silent cruising: everything tastes better
One of the standout features of Heesen’s hybrid yachts is its ‘silent cruising’ capability, which extends beyond their environmental benefits and into on-board comfort. Research conducted by Professor Barry Smith, founder of the Centre for the Study of the Senses, shows that noise even impacts the brain’s processing of taste. In silent cruise mode, with noise levels around 46 decibels—the sound of softly falling rain—guests a Heesen hybrid yacht can savour fine dining and wine without any diminution of taste, enhancing the onboard experience.

Captain Mike French, who has helmed numerous voyages on Home, attests to the transformative power of silent cruising. He describes it as a sensation of “gliding along” rather than being driven, an experience that has consistently astounded guests. This experience is particularly effective in calm waters, making destinations like the Bahamas, the Tobago Cays, and the Amalfi Coast ideal for enjoying this unique feature.

Project Orion: the next chapter
Building on the success of Home and Danica, Project Orion is set to join this prestigious lineage of hybrid yachts. Designed to embody Heesen’s commitment to innovation and excellence, Project Orion will feature a state-of-the-art hybrid propulsion system that promises enhanced fuel efficiency, reduced noise, and a seamless cruising experience.

The yacht’s interior, designed to maximize space and light, will offer a harmonious blend of indoor and outdoor living. With spacious lounging areas on the fore, top, and aft decks, Project Orion will provide the same amount of lounging space as a 60m yacht, ensuring guests can relax in comfort and style. The clever use of mirrors and glass will create an open, airy atmosphere, further enhancing the sense of luxury.

A smart investment
Heesen’s yachts are not only celebrated for their cutting-edge technology and luxurious design, but also for their excellent resale value and popularity in the charter market. Project Orion is expected to follow this trend, offering owners a smart investment opportunity. Her high-quality construction and innovative features will make her a sought-after vessel for both private use and charter, ensuring her place among the most desirable yachts on the market.

As Heesen prepares for the delivery of the 50m Project Orion in the first quarter of 2025, the anticipation is palpable. This new addition to Heesen’s fleet promises to uphold the shipyard’s storied legacy of innovation, luxury, and environmental consciousness. Project Orion is a testament to Heesen’s unwavering commitment to delivering unparalleled experiences on the water, ensuring that the future of yachting is as exciting as it is sustainable.

Words by Èloïse de la Vague