The hull and superstructure of Heesen's 57 metre superyacht Project Akira have been joined at the yard's Oss facilities, marking a significant construction update for the superyacht. Her keel was laid in February 2022 and her twin MTU engines were fitted nine months later in November.
Project Akira, also known as YN 20457, was first revealed at the 2019 Monaco Yacht Show and is the first in a new class of high-speed aluminium Heesen yachts.
The four-deck superyacht is being built on speculation with delivery scheduled for 2024.
Her 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 the 780GT interiors.
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.”
Meanwhile, the yacht's interior design comes courtesy of Harrison Eidsgaard. It has been described as a “versatile canvas” that can be personalised late in the process without affecting the construction programme and delivery date. Speaking about the design, co-founder Ben Harrison said: “The whole premise of the design is about the view – indoor-outdoor living is the primary driver.”
Accommodation is for a total of 12 guests, including a 63 square metre owner’s stateroom and five guest cabins. The crew quarters allow for a staff of 13.
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 range of 4,400 nautical miles at 12 knots.