Heesen's 56.7-metre Project Akira (also known as YN 20457) has entered outfitting ahead of her launch and sea trials this summer. She is on track for delivery this year.
Project Akira was first revealed at the 2019 Monaco Yacht Show and is the first in a new class of high-speed aluminium yachts by the Dutch shipyard.
Construction began in 2022 and the superyacht was sold in 2023, with Wes Sanford of Northrop & Johnson and James Corts of MarineMax acting on behalf of the buyer.
An Omega Architects exterior features a "shapely silhouette" with an elongated profile and a new, "scoop-shaped stern", according to the yard. Extensive structural and decorative glass is a key focus of the exterior design and helps to enhance the indoor and outdoor connection throughout her four decks and 780GT interior.
Frank Laupman of Omega Architects said that the studio "added a touch of aggression by way of sharp angles" and compares the overall look to "a leaping animal."
Accommodation is for a total of 12 guests and comprises a 63-square-metre owner’s stateroom, bridge deck VIP suite and a further four guest cabins. All decks can be accessed by a stainless steel and glass elevator and crew quarters allow for a staff of 13. British studio Harrison Eidsgaard is responsible for the interiors.
"The clients were very closely involved in developing the interior from when it was pre-purchase," said Marine Construction Management's Peter Wilson, acting as the owner's representative. "Now it closely reflects their design inspiration and preferences in terms of layout, materials and finishes.”
Project Akira will be powered by a pair of IMO III-compliant MTU 16V 4000 M65L engines for a top speed of 22 knots and a range of 4,400 nautical miles at 12 knots. Much like many of Heesen's fast-cruising deliveries, the new series will feature an ultra-efficient and lightweight Fast Displacement Hull Form (FDHF).
"Project Akira is the first in a new class of yachts, which we have carefully studied and engineered to deliver optimum luxury on the water," said Heesen CCO Mark Cavendish. "We look forward to working with the owners and their families to build a yacht that will provide many days of happy sailing and create long-lasting memories."
Project Akira is one of 13 models under construction or on order at the Dutch shipyard, including Cinderella Noel IV. The 50-metre superyacht is owned by a "passionate skipper" and recently underwent sea trials.
Read More/Heesen's 50m superyacht Cinderella Noel IV begins sea trials