Heesen Yachts ORION
Dutch luxury yacht builder Heesen Yachts is thrilled to unveil its latest innovation in hybrid yachting: the 50-meter Project Orion. This groundbreaking vessel represents a significant stride towards a greener future for the superyacht industry, blending advanced engineering, cutting-edge technology and sustainable materials to minimize environmental impact.
Designed with lightweight aluminum construction, Project Orion achieves reduced weight, enhancing efficiency. Paired with hybrid-electric propulsion, this design enables quiet cruising and remarkable fuel economy, consuming just 45 liters of fuel per hour at speeds of up to 10 knots—a 30 percent fuel reduction compared to conventional diesel-powered yachts of a similar size.
As the third model in Heesen’s advanced 50-meter Fast Displacement Hull Form (FDHF) aluminum series, Project Orion showcases the shipyard’s dedication to pushing boundaries in sustainable yachting. Heesen has been a pioneer in hybrid propulsion, having delivered Home in 2017—the first fast displacement superyacht featuring this innovative technology. Known for its appearances on the reality TV series Below Deck, Home has become a sought-after charter yacht, underscoring the success and versatility of hybrid systems.
The Luxury of Silence
Heesen Yachts ORION
The hybrid engine aboard Project Orion delivers not only exceptional efficiency, but also an unparalleled level of quiet cruising. Operating in hybrid mode, the yacht produces just 46 decibels of noise—comparable to the gentle sound of falling rain. This allows guests to fully immerse themselves in the serenity of their surroundings without disruption. The system also offers the flexibility to change locations discreetly, ensuring onboard tranquility remains undisturbed.
“Building yachts with a reduced environmental impact is part of our long-term strategy,” says Heesen’s Chief Commercial Officer, Mark Cavendish. “Following the success of charter yacht Home, we see that increasingly more clients appreciate Heesen’s hybrid solutions, especially due to their quietness.”
Project Orion’s advanced propulsion system integrates traditional engines with electric power, significantly lowering fuel consumption and reducing its ecological footprint. This innovative approach to yacht design meets the rising demand for environmentally responsible luxury, enabling owners to embrace a more sustainable lifestyle without compromising performance or comfort.
The appeal of quiet, sustainable cruising was a key factor when the owner of the recently delivered Cinderella Noel IV selected Heesen’s hybrid technology for their custom yacht. The owner and their family are now enjoying this remarkable feature while exploring the tranquil fjords of Norway and Scandinavia, showcasing the real-world benefits of Heesen’s commitment to eco-conscious yachting.
Innovative Design Philosophy
Heesen Yachts ORION
Project Orion showcases a bold and contemporary aesthetic, crafted by Frank Laupman of Omega Architects. Featuring a near-vertical bow and expansive floor-to-ceiling windows, the yacht embodies a seamless blend of functionality and modern elegance. Italian designer Cristiano Gatto has brought his expertise to the interiors, creating a sophisticated yet inviting space that owners can customize to their tastes upon purchase.
Gatto’s approach emphasizes both luxury and sustainability. “We conduct a lot of research into the materials we use. For example, we use leather that is certified from the food industry because it is a product that would otherwise be thrown away,” Gatto explains. The interior design fosters a warm and comfortable environment while adhering to eco-conscious principles.
Standout features include a spacious swim platform with easy access to a sauna and gym, a sunlit master suite with breathtaking ocean views, and a vast sundeck designed for relaxation and entertainment.
Exterior Elegance by Omega Architects
Heesen Yatch – ORION On Sun Deck
Frank Laupman’s vision for Project Orion combines sleek, modern lines with practical engineering. The vertical bow enhances wave-piercing efficiency while reinforcing the yacht’s striking profile. Floor-to-ceiling glass windows flood the interior with natural light, offering uninterrupted ocean views, while open bulwarks highlight a harmonious connection to the sea. This carefully considered exterior design demonstrates a balance between aesthetics and performance, delivering a yacht that is both visually impressive and highly functional.
Luxurious Accommodations
ORION Owners Stateroom
Heesen’s Project Orion offers accommodations for up to 12 guests across six exquisitely designed cabins, each reflecting the yacht’s commitment to elegance and comfort. At the heart of the layout is a full-beam owner’s suite, featuring Nabuk wall coverings, oak Tatumi flooring and a sleek white lacquered ceiling enhanced by sunken LED lighting. The suite’s en-suite bathroom is a masterpiece, adorned with Patagonia marble and polished white Lasa marble, creating a space of refined luxury.
Guest accommodations include a full-beam VIP suite, two double cabins and two twin cabins, providing versatility and privacy to suit a variety of guest needs. Each cabin is thoughtfully designed to ensure a seamless blend of style and functionality, offering an inviting retreat for every guest onboard.
ORION Owners Bathroom
Project Orion also prioritizes the comfort and efficiency of the crew, with accommodations for nine, including four crew cabins and a dedicated crew mess. This well-organized layout ensures the staff can deliver exceptional service while enjoying a comfortable living environment, making every journey aboard Project Orion a truly unparalleled experience.
The design reflects meticulous attention to detail, blending elegance with practicality, making the yacht ideal for both private use and charter. Sustainable materials further elevate the interior, aligning with Heesen’s commitment to eco-friendly luxury.
Precision Engineering and Exceptional Craftsmanship
ORION On Main Deck
Ruud van der Stroom, Heesen’s chief commercial officer, highlights the yacht’s unique appeal: “Project Orion presents a rare opportunity for discerning clients to acquire a superyacht that embodies Dutch craftsmanship’s unrivaled safety and solidity. By summer, Project Orion will be poised to navigate the oceans, setting a new standard for luxury.”
A compact machinery layout optimizes performance, while Heesen’s dedication to quality ensures every element—from engineering to finishes—meets the highest standards of excellence.
A Vision for a Sustainable Future
ORION Swim platform
Demonstrating its dedication to sustainability, Heesen Yachts is among the first in the industry to adopt the Yacht Environmental Transparency Index (YETI). This innovative framework assesses a yacht’s environmental performance using over 30 criteria, resulting in a comprehensive YETI score. Project Orion is set to achieve one of the highest YETI scores for a motor yacht, highlighting its exceptional eco-conscious design.
“The yacht industry is constantly investing in new technologies and solutions for a more sustainable future,” explains Cavendish. “Alternative fuels like methanol and hydrogen, although promising, will take time to become available in sufficient quantities and require major technical modifications to the design of yachts. Project Orion is one of the most efficient yachts currently available on the market,”
By combining advanced engineering, innovative propulsion and a focus on sustainability, Project Orion reflects Heesen’s unwavering commitment to reducing environmental impact while maintaining the luxury and performance synonymous with its brand.