Project Serena on track for 2024 delivery
Construction is well underway on Heesen’s new YN 20555, codenamed Project Serena, with the Dutch shipyard reporting the superyacht’s hull and superstructure have been joined together. The vessel remains on track for its autumn 2024 delivery date.
To avoid welding cross-contamination between steel and aluminium fabrication, Heesen says it has developed strict protocols during its long-term partnership with Talsma, a Friesland shipyard specialising in the construction of steel craft. Project Serena’s steel hull arrived in Oss after a two-day trip by sea, canal and river from the north of Holland.
On 19 April, it was brought alongside in Oss, The Netherlands, where the aluminium superstructure arrived a day later.
Rick van de Wetering, Heesen’s chief operation officer, comments: “We owe our accomplishments not only to Heesen’s craftspeople but to our extended family of trustworthy suppliers and loyal partners, who are an integral part of our success. Talsma has been growing with us. We share the same vision. To create the best Dutch superyachts in the smartest and most efficient manner possible.”
Owner’s representative Richard Kaye of Monaco-based brokerage firm Arcon Yachts adds: “There are no two Heesen 55m Steels that are the same. Of course, similarities exist, but each yacht is customised to reflect its owner’s tastes and requirements. At Arcon, we are very familiar with this class of yacht, having sold two, and we work closely with the client and the shipyard to ensure the final product perfectly suits the owners’ wishes and family lifestyle.”
Luca Dini Design and Architecture and Heesen’s in-house interior engineers are currently finalising the interior decoration. Project Serena started as a speculative build, and its interior design was conceived as a canvas for future owners to adapt.
“This is the most inspiring period of the design process, as we collaborate closely with both client and shipyard to craft a beautiful design which we know Heesen’s specialists will execute flawlessly,” says Silvia Margutti, of Luca Dini Design and Architecture.
“We are also deeply involved in the engineering aspects of our design and truly relish this confluence of Italian creativity and Dutch perfectionism. Serena will be a masterpiece.”
Heesen is currently busy constructing a number of superyachts, including several set to launch this year.
