Frans Heesen, founder of Dutch superyacht builder Heesen Yachts, passed away on 23 April in his hometown of Oss, the Netherlands, at the age of 78. The company says that his visionary leadership, courage, and exceptional ability to identify and nurture talent have been fundamental to Heesen Yachts’ success and growth.
Frans Heesen took over an existing shipyard in Oss harbour in 1978 and started producing aluminium Striker boats. One year after the purchase, the 20-metre Amigo was launched. It was the very first yacht to bear the Heesen name. Heesen Shipyards was born.
Heesen’s real breakthrough followed in 1988 with the construction of the 38-metre fast luxury yacht called Octopussy. The yacht reached a speed of over 50 knots, making it the fastest motor yacht in the world.
In 2008, the same year that the company decided to expand with new construction facilities that increased production capacity to eight yachts per year, Heesen sold the company. At that time, Heesen Yachts employed around 300 employees.
The yacht building company was sold to English investment company Topaz Investment International. Earlier this month, the company fully returned to Dutch hands, when it was announced Dutch entrepreneur and investor Laurens Last had acquired the company.
Also read: Dutch entrepreneur acquires Heesen Yachts
‘Spirit of Dutch courage’
‘Heesen embodied the spirit of Dutch courage, taking bold and sometimes audacious steps that defined the shipyard’s future,’ says Heesen Yachts in a press release. ‘His brave decision to embark on the challenge of building the groundbreaking yacht, Octopussy, is a testament to his visionary approach. Despite the immense risks involved, including the potential for the shipyard’s demise, Frans’ unyielding faith and determination not only ensured Octopussy was a triumph, but also propelled Heesen to global acclaim.’
The shipyard adds: ‘Frans dedicated his entire life to the shipyard, fostering an environment that felt more like a family than a business. Even after the company was sold, the family atmosphere he cultivated remained strong. Today, this sense of family and the values he instilled continue to define Heesen. Frans’ contributions have left an indelible mark on the yachting industry and everyone who had the honour of working with him.’
Heesen is survived by his wife Petra, his children, and his grandchildren.
Photo by Emilio Bianchi/Heesen Yachts.
