We’re all accustomed to seeing Dutch yachts cruise through the country’s canals on the way to sea trials. However, seeing two yachts—in this case, two Heesen superyachts—do it essentially side by side is entirely different. The yachts Solemates and Project Orion treated onlookers to this unusual situation just days ago.
The 180’5” (55-meter) yacht Solemates launched in January for an American couple. In fact, the owners are previous Heesen customers, having taken delivery of a same-named megayacht in 2020. Luca Dini Design studio has created an interior featuring bold color accents and multiple finishes for striking effects. Expect the décor to show off greens, teals, and soft aqua blues, for example. Some areas may have extra-special touches, too, since the owners and their family intend to spend a lot of time there. In particular, these include the upper-deck saloon and the sundeck.
Meanwhile, the 164-foot (50-meter) Project Orion launched in December 2024 as a spec build. Since Heesen had partnered with Cristiano Gatto Design for the interiors, the décor was already going aboard when buyers came forward this past March. Thankfully, they liked the studio’s vision of modern elegance, with multiple woods, woven leathers, marbles, silks, and more. Heesen’s own interiors division was crafting the paneling and furnishings, too. Overall, Gatto likens the look of the yacht Project Orion to “comfort in luxury.” He elaborates, “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.”
Interestingly the two Heesen superyachts have further distinctly different features, yet also some things in common. Firstly, Solemates is an all-aluminum build. However, Project Orion—whose real name remains confidential—has a steel hull. Yet another difference, Solemates has traditional diesel propulsion while Project Orion has hybrid propulsion. Finally, each of these Heesen superyachts features the Fast Displacement Hull Form of all the semi-custom projects from the yard.
Actually, there’s one more thing the yachts have in common, at least at the time of filming. Each had yet to be paired with her mast. Due to the low clearance of many canal bridges, Heesen cannot install masts until the yachts get closer to open ocean.
Cristiano Gatto Design cristianogattodesign.com
Luca Dini Design lucadini.com
Heesen Yachts heesenyachts.com
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