Dutch shipyard, Heesen has announced the successful delivery of their first yacht for 2024. Measuring 180’ 5”, Project YN 20255 and previously named APOLLO is a fast displacement steel aluminum motor yacht that has now been named IRIS BLUE and follows in the footsteps of her foressisters in the 55M series with IRIS BLUE being the first restyled yacht in the series.
Featured image: Ruben Griffioen – 180’ 5” Hessen Yachts Project YN 20255 IRIS BLUE
Naval architecture was completed by Van Oossanen Naval Architects and Heesen Yachts, with interior design by Luca Dini Design & Architecture, and exterior styling by Omega Architects. Following her three-day sea trials in the North Sea, IRIS BLUE passed with flying colors, even during very rough conditions with waves up to 5.5’ and wind gusts up to 28 knots.
Original designer of the series, Frank Laupman of Omega Architects, completed the restyle of the exterior lines and shares, “As much as we love our original design with the vertical windows, we felt it was time to make an evolutionary step. We opted for a larger expanse of floor-to-ceiling glass, without mullions in the main saloon. Then, we took the opportunity to give a slightly more aggressive look to the profile by using continuous sheets of tinted glass. The horizontal lines stretch the optical length and balance the air draft. The result is beautiful: we retained the family look and feel but gave it an elegant touch.”
Updated yacht design touches include a veranda on the starboard side of the owner’s quarters, which changes the space and overall feel of the owner’s cabin, with added storage in the walk-in wardrobes and a completely private outdoor area for the owner to enjoy. A larger sundeck houses a bar and whirlpool forward, while the main deck central atrium has been modernized with a wider staircase and additional companionway from the wheelhouse deck up to the sundeck for easy crew access.
Heesen’s new CEO, Niels Vaessen comments: “Heesen’s 55-meter steel is a unique and very competitive design. We believe in this proven design platform and have worked with Omega and Luca Dini on creating a yacht that meets the refined tastes of clients who appreciate Dutch quality with a shortened delivery time. [IRIS BLUE] is a wonderful addition to our fleet, and we wish the Owners and her crew many days of happy sailing.”
