UPDATE, MARCH 4, 2015: Asya was delivered yesterday. According to Heesen Yachts, sea trials in mid-February revealed that she exceeded her contract speed by nearly a full knot (0.8, to be exact). Conditions were relatively calm on the North Sea, the usual proving grounds for the yard. Read on for the original story.
Heesen’s YN 16947, a 154-footer (47-meter), now has a name. Asya was christened during a private launch party just prior to the new year.
Few details have been divulged so far, though the interior-design scheme by Bannenberg & Rowell surely is a sight to see, as hinted at in the rendering below. Picture greyed oiled oak with a moderate gloss, complemented by rich Makassar ebony. Polished stainless steel is further used, as is bronze, and of course silk fabrics. They come together aboard Asya with Asian flair, and in a way evocative of famous architects like Frank Lloyd-Wright, Dieter Rams, and Tadao Ando. While each of these architects differs, all three are famous for emphasizing simplicity and respect of the natural environment.
Incidentally, Asya is the third Heesen megayacht to date for Bannenberg & Rowell. Lady Petra and the recently delivered Alive preceded her.
Further of note about Asya: As part of the redesigned Heesen 47M class, she stows her rescue tender in a compartment forward of the wheelhouse. And, her crew accommodations comply with LY3 regulations.
Sea trials were being conducted this month. Heesen expects Asya to enjoy a best range of 4,000 nautical miles at 12 knots. The yard says top speed should be 15 knots, courtesy of twin MTU diesels.
Asya is being handed over in February. No word on where the owners plan to take their maiden voyage.
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