Heesen, the renowned Dutch shipyard, announced the latest addition to their highly acclaimed 55-meter Steel Class – YN 20655, also known as Project Venus. The presentation took place at the Tuscan seaside resort of Forte dei Marmi at the Forté In showroom, a company active in the world of luxury Italian furniture and a close collaborator of Luca Dini’s. Currently under construction at Talsma in Friesland, North of Holland, this magnificent vessel is set to impress yacht connoisseurs with its exceptional design and top-notch craftsmanship.
To ensure high-quality standards, Heesen partnered with Talsma to construct steel hulls to avoid cross-contamination with the welding of the aluminium hulls at our facility in Oss. The hull construction is on track and currently 80% completed. Transport to our shipyard, engine installation, and joining are scheduled for September this year. She is available for sale, with delivery in Q2 2025.
The choice of Luca Dini Design & Architecture for the interior styling brings additional pedigree and Italian flair to the project. Suave and sophisticated but also welcoming and family-friendly, the colour palette in the main saloon and dining room, which take advantage of the full 9.6-metre beam, is based on aquamarine and ivory soft furnishings combined with warm wood veneers, natural leathers and full-height windows for exceptional light and panoramic views. Punchy blue fabrics are used in the sky lounge on the upper deck. The design thrives on contrasts, providing a sense of harmony that captivates the imagination.
The spacious and bright owner’s suite has its own lounge area and private balcony located on the starboard side. This luxurious space includes a study with a large TV screen and a sofa, a double dressing room, and an elegant full-beam bathroom featuring Fior di Pesco Carnico floor-to-ceiling marble, and quirky Gessi Venti20 Serie fixtures in Black metal. On the lower deck, two double and two twin suites provide ample space for guests, while an additional cabin is on the bridge deck. The main saloon features a well-proportioned and continuous space traditionally shared by a lounge and a dining area. Large side windows flood the area with natural light, which is further amplified by strategically placed mirrors, guiding the gaze towards the aft doors and offering breathtaking sea views.
Mark Cavendish, Heesen CCO, states: “Project Venus presents a unique opportunity for clients who want a yacht big enough to accommodate luxury but compact enough to access small ports in the Mediterranean. Her sturdy hull and excellent seakeeping will offer safe and comfortable passages in all sea conditions. The ultra-performing FDHF hull form, powered by two IMO III engines of just 1,000kw each, will deliver a top speed of 15,5 knots. The top-notch Dutch quality and the short delivery time make Project Venus a unique opportunity for yacht connoisseurs who want to be involved in the fun part of decorating a luxurious home away from home, with the certainty of taking delivery of a yacht with proven performance and exceptional value.”
Exterior yacht spaces match the interior yacht design and flow to create airy living spaces in upscale materials and furnishings. The Beach Club features a sauna, shower, day toilet and lounge area and bar, seamlessly connecting the exterior to the interior of the yacht. Project Venus is scheduled for delivery in 2025 and is currently in build at the Heesen shipyard in Oss alongside sisterships Project Serena and Project Apollo.