Heesen Yachts launched YN 21150 Project Sophia, a 50-metre all-aluminium yacht, at its facility in Oss on Saturday, 14 March. Project Sophia combines high-speed capability with a shallow draught.
Powered by two MTU 16V 4000 M65L engines, Sophia offers a transatlantic range of 3100 nautical miles at 11 knots. Defined by a 23-knot maximum speed and a draught of just 2.15 metres, the benchmark depth for unrestricted cruising in the Bahamas, this all-aluminium platform is engineered for swift passages and the freedom to explore territories usually reserved for much smaller yachts.
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Hard-chine hull
Heesen’s naval architects achieved this balance through a refined hard-chine hull with recessed propeller tunnels. Beyond enabling shallow-water navigation, this profile delivers a twelve per cent gain in hull efficiency within the 50-metre class. At 499 GT and fully IMO Tier III-compliant, Sophia stands as a definitive example of Northern European craftsmanship and technical ambition.
Peter van der Zanden, Director Design & Development and Engineering: ‘With Project Sophia, our engineers have improved hull efficiency by twelve per cent. This is more than a technical metric; it translates directly into lower fuel consumption and a quieter, more enjoyable experience at sea. The result is a highly optimised yacht that reflects our Dutch heritage of building for performance.’
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Interior design and layout
The level of finish on Project Sophia reflects Heesen’s vertically integrated approach. By completing the entire interior fit-out at the shipyard’s dedicated cabinetry workshop in Winterswijk, Heesen maintains full oversight over both the production timeline and the application of materials.
The main deck aft features a shallow pool with floating sun loungers. Designed for active exploration, the beach club is configured as an activity-focused hub with tailored stowage for wakeboards and land-exploration bikes, opening directly onto a fold-down swim platform. The sundeck features a sliding-door windbreaker.
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Built on spec
Finished in a distinctive “Whisper Grey” by Awlgrip, Project Sophia is currently available for purchase. Following its launch, the systems will be commissioned before it commences intensive sea trials in the North Sea, remaining on schedule for delivery in June 2026.
Picture: Project Sophia combines high-speed capability with a shallow draught (photo by Heesen Yachts).
