This coming April, Heesen, the Dutch shipyard and technological innovator, is set to launch the 50-metre hybrid superyacht called Electra. Simon Wittenberg takes a closer look.
This Heesen superyacht will be cleaner, quieter and more fuel-efficient than her peers, with four different cruising modes, including a coveted eco-friendly silent mode.
Named after the Greek sea goddess of storm clouds and lightning, the 499-tonne Electra is designed to create a sense of oneness with the elements, continuity and connection to the sea.
Her sleek and sharp exteriors, designed by Frank Laupman of Omega Architects, give way to a flowing layout that invites the outdoors inside.
Characterised by her long waterline and floor-to-ceiling windows, vast expanses of black structural glass and a distinctive vertical bow give her a striking profile.
A shallow draft of only 2.15 metres will allow access to the waters of destinations like the Bahamas, the Caribbean and the Andaman Islands in the Bay of Bengal.
Going green
Heesen’s ever-increasing desire to lessen its carbon footprint has laid the foundation for its hybrid solutions. Combining the ultra-efficient Fast Displacement Hull Form, which decreases fuel consumption by up to 20%, with Heesen’s advanced hybrid solutions, Electra offers both diesel mechanical and diesel electrical power.
Either source can be used independently or simultaneously, providing less noise, reduced vibration and more flexible power management.
The hybrid solutions of competitors primarily have batteries at their core, but Heesen has fully eliminated the battery, thereby drastically reducing the weight of the yacht.
A luxurious interior
The chic and sophisticated interiors of Electra have been created by the internationally renowned Venetian designer Cristiano Gatto.
Exquisite materials, combined with flooding natural light from floor-to-ceiling windows throughout, create a sense of brightness.
Bespoke furnishings have been handcrafted with soft edges and flowing lines, creating a tranquil environment using hues of blue and grey.
The 65-square-metre dining area in the main saloon has a bank of windows that look out over the horizon, with mirrors providing a sense of space and a connection to nature.
A twelve-person formal dining table presents the ideal opportunity for socialising and entertaining. In the atrium on the main deck, leather-panelled walls contrast with the dark oak flooring of a curved, floating staircase.
The crown jewel of Electra is the sky lounge. It gives the illusion of being on a veranda overlooking the ocean.
The perfect place to unwind and relax, it features floor-to-ceiling windows and a glass sliding door that opens up onto an elegant and spacious terrace, creating a borderless indoor-outdoor space.
Here, owners and guests can lunch in luxury with panoramic sea views or dine by candlelight under the stars.
The beach club at the rear of the yacht has an open-plan swim platform with a wide central staircase for easy access, providing a quiet retreat for water-side relaxation or a base for water sports enthusiasts. Dedicated areas for lounging and sunbathing are located on the fore, top and aft decks.
The owner’s stateroom and cabins
The owner’s stateroom is situated forward on the main deck. Here, the natural elements of the design come into their own.
Floor-to-ceiling windows on either side create a bright and airy space, accentuating the textured wooden panels and quality fabrics.
The en-suite bathroom, equipped with a generous shower, incorporates stone, marble and glass in a monochromatic palette.
The lower deck features five generous guest suites that continue the contemporary design language of the yacht, using fine materials and textures to create quiet havens for guests.
Two twin and two double cabins complement the full-beam VIP suite, providing ample space for privacy and relaxation. Mirrored back walls work with large windows in every cabin, to once again emphasise space and light.
Heesen Electra – Where and How?
For more information on Heesen Yachts, visit www.heesenyachts.com.