The Moment of Transformation: Project Grace at Heesen Yachts

The moment a hull and superstructure join together is a pivotal milestone in the journey of any superyacht. For yacht owners, it’s the moment when the vision of their dream vessel begins to take tangible form. This transformative event recently occurred for Project Grace at Heesen Yachts, marking a significant step in the construction of this remarkable vessel.

The Journey of the Hull

The journey of Project Grace began with the transportation of its steel hull from Heesen’s subcontractor in Franeker, located in the northern part of The Netherlands. This intricate process involved a barge navigating through a network of canals and rivers, ultimately arriving at Heesen’s riverfront headquarters in Oss. The careful coordination and transportation of the hull underscored the meticulous planning that goes into building a superyacht.

Upon arrival, Heesen’s skilled craftspeople set to work, preparing the hull for the next phase of construction. Before securing the aluminum superstructure in place, they installed the twin MAN engines, a crucial step that would define the yacht’s performance capabilities.

A First in Engineering Excellence

Project Grace is not just another superyacht; it represents a significant milestone for Heesen Yachts as the first of the 50M Steel FHDF series. This yacht introduces the innovative 12-cylinder MAN D2862 LE438 engine, which delivers an impressive 1,200 horsepower. According to Peter van der Zanden, head of the design and development/engineering department, this engine was the clear choice for Project Grace, offering a power and efficiency profile that aligns perfectly with the yacht’s performance targets.

Moreover, the engine complies with international emissions regulations, allowing for a remarkable range of 3,800 nautical miles at a cruising speed of 12 knots. For those seeking speed, Project Grace can reach a top speed of 15½ knots, making it a formidable contender on the water.

Thoughtful Design for Luxurious Living

Heesen began the construction of Project Grace on spec, collaborating with the renowned design studio Harrison Eidsgaard for the yacht’s interior proposals. The designers envisioned spaces that are family-focused and casually elegant, allowing for significant customization to suit personal tastes.

Project Grace features six staterooms, accommodating up to 12 guests for extended stays onboard. The design also caters to shorter visits, with a sundeck that can host last-minute lunch or dinner invitations while at anchor. This versatile space is perfect for celebrations, such as birthday bashes or anniversary parties, comfortably accommodating nearly two dozen guests.

Closer to the water, the split-level aft-deck terrace boasts an infinity pool and a spacious swim platform, ideal for boarding water toys. The toys are conveniently stowed on the foredeck, freeing up the aft space entirely for leisure activities, enhancing the overall experience onboard.

A Future Icon

As of now, Project Grace remains available for sale, with delivery anticipated in the first quarter of 2028. Ruud van der Stroom, Heesen’s Chief Commercial Officer, expresses confidence in the yacht’s iconic design, believing it will resonate strongly with discerning owners seeking a blend of luxury and performance.

Specifications at a Glance

For those interested in the technical details, here are the specifications of Project Grace:

• Length Overall (LOA): 163’8” (49.9 meters)
• Beam: 30’6” (9.6 meters)
• Draft: Approx. 8’4” (2.55 meters) at half load
• Guest Capacity: 12 in 6 staterooms
• Engines: 2 x 1,182-hp MANs
• Range: 3,800 nautical miles at 12 knots
• Builder: Heesen Yachts
• Stylist: Harrison Eidsgaard
• Naval Architect: Van Oossanen Naval Architects
• Interior Designer: Harrison Eidsgaard

Conclusion

The joining of the hull and superstructure of Project Grace at Heesen Yachts is more than just a construction milestone; it symbolizes the culmination of vision, engineering excellence, and design innovation. As this remarkable yacht continues its journey toward completion, it stands as a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship that define the world of superyachts. With its unique features and impressive specifications, Project Grace is poised to make waves in the luxury yacht market.