Heesen Yachts Announces Launch of 50m PROJECT ORION

By Zoe Coughlan

Heesen Yachts is delighted to announce the launch of 50m all-aluminum hybrid yacht YN 20750, code-named PROJECT ORION: a testament to the exceptional Dutch craftsmanship, cutting-edge engineering, and meticulous construction that Heesen is renowned for. PROJECT ORION is set to offer her Owner a superyacht experience that blends luxury, performance, and sustainability, ready to embark on global adventures by Spring 2025.

Ruud van der Stroom, Heesen’s Chief Commercial Officer, shared his excitement on this new launch: ‘PROJECT ORION presents a rare opportunity for discerning clients to acquire a superyacht that embodies the unrivalled safety and solidity of Dutch craftmanship, ready to cruise by Spring. To have immediate access to such exceptional quality – engineered for both style and security – is truly extraordinary. By summer, PROJECT ORION will be poised to navigate the oceans, setting a new standard for luxury.

As part of Heesen’s prestigious 50m FDHF (Fast Displacement Hull Form) aluminium series with hybrid propulsion, PROJECT ORION continues the shipyard’s legacy of blending advanced design with outstanding performance. Designed by naval architects van Oossanen, the FDHF hull allows for optimal propulsion efficiency across all speeds. Powered by twin MTU 12V 2000 M61 engines, each producing 600 kW, PROJECT ORION achieves a top speed of 16.3 knots. At 12 knots, her fuel consumption is an impressive 98 litres per hour, while in hybrid mode, consumption drops to just 45 litres per hour at 10 knots, demonstrating her remarkable efficiency for a 50-meter yacht weighing 295 tons.

Frank Laupman of Omega Architects designed the yacht's sleek exterior, incorporating a bold near-vertical bow and expansive floor-to-ceiling windows. This design not only ensures smooth navigation through waves but also offers a visually striking profile that will turn heads wherever PROJECT ORION sails.

Her interiors were crafted by Italian designer Cristiano Gatto and maximises natural light will simultaneously offering beautiful ocean views. The yacht’s layout includes six luxurious staterooms, including a full-beam VIP cabin and a master suite located on the main deck. Four additional staterooms are situated on the lower deck, ensuring ample space for both family and guests.

PROJECT ORION is the perfect fusion of technology and design, setting new standards for hybrid yachts in its class. Over the coming months, the yacht’s systems will be commissioned, and she will undergo intensive testing in the North Sea by mid-February to ensure her readiness for summer cruising.

With PROJECT ORION, Heesen once again proves its commitment to innovation, luxury, and sustainability, creating a superyacht that combines unrivalled performance with timeless design. 

"By summer, PROJECT ORION will be poised to navigate the oceans, setting a new standard for luxury."

Ruud van der Stroom, Chief Commercial Officer, Heesen Yachts

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"By summer, PROJECT ORION will be poised to navigate the oceans, setting a new standard for luxury."

Ruud van der Stroom, Chief Commercial Officer, Heesen Yachts
By Zoe Coughlan