Heesen Yachts is thrilled to announce a major advancement in the construction of YN 21150, also known as Project Sophia. On Wednesday, June 26, 2024, the hull and superstructure of this 50-meter fast cruising yacht were successfully united, marking a crucial step toward its completion.
This yacht, which is a semi-displacement vessel under 500GT, features an exterior crafted by Omega Architects and an interior designed by Cristiano Gatto. Project Sophia boasts a top speed of 23 knots, accommodating 12 guests across five staterooms. The yacht offers 324 square meters of luxurious interior space and 250 square meters of outdoor space, with delivery anticipated in the first quarter of 2026.
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Project Sophia showcases Heesen’s unmatched skill in constructing fast aluminum yachts with optimized fuel efficiency. The yacht’s sleek exterior, designed by Frank Laupman of Omega Architects, complements the opulent interior by Cristiano Gatto. This combination reflects Heesen’s commitment to excellence and innovation.
The name Sophia, rich in meaning, draws from Hellenistic philosophy and suggests cleverness, skill, wisdom, and intelligence—traits that align perfectly with Heesen’s craftsmanship. The name also evokes the elegance and charm of actress Sophia Loren, mirroring the yacht’s aesthetic appeal. The hull of Project Sophia, emerging from Shed 6 after meticulous welding by Heesen’s skilled craftsmen, signifies technological beauty.
Heesen’s dedication to quality is further emphasized by their in-house construction of aluminum hulls and the rigorous training of their welders. Becoming a certified Heesen welder involves over 500 hours of specialized training, ensuring the highest standards of welding excellence.
Designed by Heesen’s in-house naval architects, Project Sophia features a hard-chine shallow draft hull with a draft of only 2.15 meters, ideal for navigating the clear waters of the Bahamas. This efficient underwater body design improves fuel efficiency by 12% compared to traditional designs. Equipped with two MTU 16V 4000 M65L engines, the yacht can reach speeds of up to 23 knots and has a transatlantic range of 3,100 nautical miles at 11 knots.
Offering unmatched comfort and luxury, Project Sophia can host up to twelve guests in five beautifully appointed staterooms. The master suite on the main deck provides a peaceful haven, while four guest cabins on the lower deck offer ample space for family and friends.
Cristiano Gatto’s interior design marries sophistication, functionality, and aesthetic appeal. Through a careful selection of materials, colors, and textures, Gatto creates a space that embodies refined luxury, reflecting the belief that wisdom influences every aspect of life, including interior design. The interior design is available in two additional styles to cater to diverse tastes and preferences.
Embodying the essence of wisdom, Project Sophia’s interior design aims to evoke a sense of intellectual depth and discernment. The integration of tasteful elements and thoughtful design choices creates an environment that fosters creativity, comfort, and beauty.
Currently on the market and slated for delivery in Q1 2026, Project Sophia offers a unique opportunity to own a Dutch-quality yacht with a shortened delivery time. This exceptional vessel promises an unparalleled yachting experience, combining Heesen’s renowned craftsmanship with state-of-the-art design and efficiency.
For further details and to obtain the press pack, please contact Sara Gioanola.
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