Sea trials represent one of the final and most demanding phases of any yacht's construction, allowing engineers to verify everything from propulsion and maneuverability to onboard systems and noise levels under real operating conditions.
Final Testing Before Delivery
Following her launch in July, Project Setteesettanta has been transported from Heesen's Oss shipyard to open water, where a series of trials will evaluate performance, stability and system reliability.
The yacht is expected to reach a top speed of 18 knots while offering a transatlantic cruising range of approximately 3,900 nautical miles at 12 knots. Twin MTU 16V2000M72 engines power the all-aluminum platform, continuing Heesen's emphasis on lightweight construction and long-range cruising efficiency.
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Beyond confirming contractual speed targets, the trials will assess steering response, vibration, onboard comfort, navigation systems and the integration of the yacht's complex technical equipment before delivery.
A Second Heesen Built for the Same Owners
Project Setteesettanta was commissioned by returning Heesen clients who approached the Dutch builder with a clear vision shaped by their previous ownership experience. Rather than pursuing maximum size, the owners prioritized practical cruising. A shallow 2.3m draft allows access to anchorages beyond the reach of many yachts of comparable length, while generous exterior living areas encourage extended time outdoors with family and guests.
Designed entirely as a bespoke project, the motor yacht represents the second Heesen commissioned by the owners, demonstrating the long-term relationship between the shipyard and repeat clients.
Exterior styling comes from Omega Architects, while Cristiano Gatto Design developed the interiors alongside acting as the owners' representative throughout the build. Naval architecture was completed in-house by Heesen.
Smart Engineering Behind the Design
Project Setteesettanta introduces several design features not previously seen on a Heesen yacht, while remaining firmly focused on practical long-range cruising. Most notably, she is the first yacht from the Dutch builder to position the bridge on a fourth deck, creating a dedicated observation area above the owner's suite without altering her streamlined profile thanks to a lightweight mast and low-profile Starlink antennas.
Outdoor living was central to the owner's brief. A four-meter infinity pool anchors the main deck aft, with twin staircases leading directly to the swim platform and beach club. The yacht also features a hydraulic transformer platform for easier access to the water, while a forward garage concealed behind gull-wing doors stores tenders and toys, with additional equipment housed in the lazarette.
Accommodation is arranged for up to 12 guests across six staterooms. The full-beam owner's apartment occupies the upper deck, offering 180-degree views and direct access to a private foredeck spanning almost 200 square meters, which can also be used as a touch-and-go helipad. A VIP suite and gym are located on the main deck, while four further guest cabins - two doubles and two twins - are positioned below deck. Separate quarters accommodate up to 13 crew.
Recent Projects Keeping Heesen Busy
Last week, Heesen celebrated the keel laying of the 56m Project Kansei, the anniversary edition that will mark the shipyard's 50th year when she launches in 2028. Designed by Omega Architects with interiors by Luca Dini Design & Architecture, the approximately 760GT steel yacht introduces a wellness-focused layout featuring dedicated fitness, spa and yoga spaces while incorporating refinements developed from owner feedback across previous Heesen platforms.
Earlier this summer, the 50m Project Sophia successfully completed North Sea sea trials after exceeding her contractual top speed of 23 knots. The all-aluminum semi-displacement yacht demonstrated the efficiency of Heesen's latest performance platform ahead of delivery later this year.
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According to YachtBuyer MarketWatch, the world's largest yacht database, Heesen currently has nine yachts under construction or on order ranging from approximately 50 to more than 72 meters. Alongside Project Kansei and Project Sophia, work also continues on major projects including the 72.3m Project Ananda, which is expected to become the largest yacht ever built by the Dutch shipyard. She is currently on the market with Heesen and is currently asking €159,900,000.
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