Photography by Heesen Yachts
07 November 2017
Heesen Yachts has announced the sale of Project Ayla, one of the Dutch yard’s 5000 alumiunium class 50-metre motor yachts, to a client introduced by British brokerage firm Abberley Luxury Yachts. Formerly known as YN 18250, the project was started by the yacht builder speculatively, meaning that the expected delivery for the yacht is in April 2018.
The semi-displacement superyacht was built to one of Heesen’s “tried and tested” platforms, which reduces overall delivery time by approximately six months, said the company.
Although Project Ayla has an overall length of 50 metres, it is below the 500gt threshold, and has a hard-chine hull that promises cruising efficiency to its new owner. Twin MTU 2,880kW engines are expected to propel the yacht to a top speed of 23 knots, with a maximum range of 3,100 nautical miles at a speed of 11 knots.
The yacht’s interior has been designed by Cristiano Gatto from Italy. Having worked with Heesen on five motor yachts prior to this project, Project Ayla has a minimalist interior with a modern interpretation of “New Deco”.
Upholstery has been chosen for many of the interior surfaces, both on the walls as well as flat surfaces, meaning that although there are just six months until expected delivery, the new owners will be able to pick custom elements for the finishes which suit their personal tastes. High-gloss ebony and Canaletto walnut wood finishes will complement the soft furnishings, including plush chenille. Finishing touches to the interior will be made over the next six months, including wood carpentry from Heesen’s in-house team.
At a press conference during this year’s Monaco Yacht Show, Heesen’s CEO Arthur Brouwer commented that the yacht builder had 12 yachts under construction, of which approximately half were started speculatively. This business model allows clients to receive a shorter delivery time at the point of signing contracts, while still allowing time for customisation and personalisation.
A second 50-metre, 5000 alumiunium class yacht is already under construction at the company’s Oss facility, also started speculatively and seeking a buyer. With the project name YN 18750, the yacht is expected to have a delivery date in spring 2019.