The 50-metre Heesen superyacht Project Orion has left the shed ahead of her delivery this spring. In December 2024, the aluminium build was launched from the shipyard's facility in Oss, the Netherlands, debuting a predatory profile by Dutch studio Omega Architects. She has been built on speculation and joins sisterships Home and Amare II on the water.
"To have immediate access to such exceptional quality – engineered for both style and security – is truly extraordinary," said Ruud van der Stroom, CCO at Heesen. "Project Orion presents a rare opportunity for discerning clients to acquire a superyacht that embodies the unrivalled safety and solidity of Dutch craftsmanship."
Accommodation is for 12 guests across six cabins, including an owners' suite located on the main deck forward as well as a full-beam VIP cabin on the lower deck. The design team has made full use of the yacht's large windows, low bulwarks and internal layout to satisfy a brief for comfortable, yet elegant interiors. "The interior style of Project Orion is the result of our research moved by matching and partially contrasting needs: comfort in luxury," said designer Cristiano Gatto.
More than 35 different types of high-gloss woods, woven leather, marbles and custom carpets feature throughout the yacht, with a contrast of colours and shapes working to create a contemporary theme.
Highlights include a 26-square-metre wellness area with a sauna, a gymnasium, a day head with shower stall and direct access to the fixed swim platform. The 77-square-metre sundeck has also been arranged with sunpads and a whirlpool forward to provide more privacy for guests when the yacht is docked stern-to in a marina. Removing the loungers will create a party area, equipped with a wet bar, a dining table in the shade under the hard top and relaxation areas both aft and fore.
Technical features on board include a shallow 2.1-metre draught, a sub-500 GT enclosed volume and a hybrid propulsion system that promises to deliver silent and efficient cruising at 10 knots.
At 12 knots, Project Orion can consume 98 litres per hour excluding hotel load, while at 10 knots in hybrid mode, consumption falls to a mere 45 litres per hour. This impressive performance is achieved with two MTU 12V 2000 M61 (IMO III) engines of just 600kW each, a compact size that demonstrates the efficiency of the yacht's Fast Displacement Hull Form.
The construction update comes at a busy time for Heesen, with 10 projects in the works according to BOATPro. The Dutch yard recently announced the launch of its 55-metre Project Venus, now christened Solemates.
Read More/Heesen launches 55m steel superyacht Solemates