Heesen Project Orion Launches, Still With Time to Tailor

UPDATE, March 24, 2025: Heesen has sold Project Orion to an experienced yacht owner, a client of Ocean Independence. “From the initial discussions in January to the client’s recent visit to the shipyard, it has been a rewarding journey,” says Ruud van der Stroom, Heesen’s CCO. “Now, we eagerly anticipate the yacht’s delivery in mid-May.” Our original article follows.

Come springtime, buyers can take their maiden voyage to Norway or another popular destination aboard the newest Heesen Yachts’ launch. Project Orion, a.k.a. hull number 20750, lowered into the water last week.

The entirely aluminum 164-footer (50-meter) is in Heesen’s 50m Aluminum FDHF series, which has included a few deliveries to date. The FDHF (Fast Displacement Hull Form) characterizes other Heesen model ranges, too, promising better fuel efficiency at all speeds. In fact, Heesen anticipates that Project Orion will burn only 26 gph (98 lph), without hotel loads, at 12 knots under MTU power alone. Since the megayacht has hybrid propulsion, the shipyard also says having the hybrid system engaged should permit a 12-gph (45-gph) fuel burn.

While buyers can personalize the interior, of course, Heesen appointed Cristiano Gatto to create a look and feel to hold high appeal. An early peek at Gatto’s vision for the megayacht reveals a modern elegance, with multiple woods, woven leathers, marbles, silks, and more. Heesen’s own interiors division has been making paneling and furnishings based on the design. Briefly, Gatto says, Project Orion is all about “comfort in luxury.” He and his studio team took a close look at a variety of design features that often earn a luxurious description, discovering that they don’t necessarily create a welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, items people consider comfort-oriented don’t always look or feel luxurious. Ultimately, Gatto says, “We have combined construction details and opulent materials to use as crown jewels that refine the space whilst making sure it stays cozy and comfortable.”

Overall, Project Orion has staterooms for a party of 12, including a main-deck master and a full-beam VIP below decks. This, as well as the rest of the general arrangement, should suit either private or charter use.

Ruud van der Stroom, Heesen’s Chief Commercial Officer, notes how “extraordinary” it is to be able to buy and begin cruising a new build so quickly. “By summer, Project Orion will poised to navigate the oceans,” he says.

Sea trials on the North Sea should begin by mid-February.

Cristiano Gatto Design cristianogattodesign.com

Heesen Yachts heesenyachts.com