Good morning ladies and gentlemen, and welcome to the Monaco Yacht Show. Thank you for this incredible turn out – I know how hard it can be to digest our latest news at this earliest of hours, so we have made sure the coffee is extra strong this morning! For those of you who do not recognize me, my name is Arthur Brouwer and I am CEO of Heesen.
It is a privilege to stand at the helm of our company which, in 2018, celebrates its 40TH anniversary. Just a few weeks ago we marked this milestone with a party at our shipyard in Oss for our employees and their families. It is lucky that we are in the process of expanding the shipyard – with 1,200 party guests we certainly needed the space!
Such a large turnout to that celebration really brought home to me just how far Heesen has come over the past 4 decades. I think back to those first steps in 1978, and remember that we had just 20 employees – and incredibly, 5 of those original 20 are still working with us today. They have certainly witnessed a lot of changes.Over the years, the company has grown just as the size of our yachts has grown. The very first Heesen, MY Amigo, was launched in 1979 and was “just” 20 metres. That seems small by today’s standards, but back then she was certainly considered a large yacht.
Today our largest yacht under construction, as you have just heard, is 80 metres. That’s a growth of nearly four times the length in four decades, or 20 metres every ten years. Of course, this growth has meant we have had to continually expand our facility, and today we have 8 sheds and 6 dry docks, totalling 22,000 m2 at our main shipyard - including an 85 metre dry dock we inaugurated in 2016. We also have a 6,500m2 interior workshop in Winterskwijk.
The key to all our success is the same now as it was right back in 1978 – the women and men who work passionately to craft our yachts. That original team of 20 has also grown considerably. We now have 450 fulltime employees and approximately 200 subcontractors. That means that on any given day there are around 650 people working on our premises. And they are being kept very busy. Earlier this year we sold 2 full custom yachts: the 60m Project Falcon and the 80m Project Cosmos – a combined total of 140 linear meters of yacht. Perhaps more impressively, their combined Gross Tonnage is 2,760 GT – which is 80 per cent of the entire gross tonnage of the six yachts we sold in 2017.
It means our company, once again, is expanding accordingly. We have recently completed the acquisition of a new property in Winterswijk to increase our interior facility there, and we are currently in an advanced phase of negotiations to acquire more land in Oss. As we are expanding, we are also actively looking for new people to join our highly skilled workforce, and we are training the next generation of craftsmen and yacht builders.
Recruiting and training skilled workers is just one of the challenges we face and embrace. Over the past 40 years we have seen the market change considerably. We have not only changed with the market, we have also made it our mission to influence and drive those market changes. Heesen began as a yard building full custom yachts on demand, and we remained a custom yacht builder for the first 20 years of our history. But at the turn of the millennium we were among the first shipyards to bring semicustom and platform superyachts to the market, with the idea of building on speculation. It proved to be a milestone decision, and today our commercial success continues to draw on this strategy of building both custom yachts and on-spec platform yachts.
Our current order book consists of 12 yachts under construction, with deliveries ranging from next year, all the way out to 2022. 5 of these are being built on spec. We live in a world of instant gratification, and not all clients are willing to wait 2.5 to 3 years to take possession of their yacht. Building on spec allows us to reduce the delivery time to clients. Of course, we also have to be aware of wider market conditions and in this sense the global economic outlook remains positive. However, substantial risks do exist and could threaten growth in the short and medium terms. Escalating trade conflicts and protectionism, the tightening of monetary policy, equity market corrections and global political strains are just a few of the factors that can play their part.
However, the number of the world’s wealthiest individuals continues to grow, not just in the billionaire bracket but also in the Ultra High Net Worth bracket – usually defined as those people who have a net worth of more than $30 million. Indeed, Knight Frank estimates that at the end of last year there were close to 130,000 of these UHNW individuals worldwide – a rise of 10 per cent over the course of 2017. 2017 was also a great year for Heesen with the sale of 6 yachts ranging from 47 to 55 metres, and with the 60 metre and 80 metre full custom yachts sold this year it is clear that we continue to enjoy a promising future. Perhaps that’s a result of the 40 years of experience we have amassed in the custom and semi-custom superyacht market, having now built and delivered more than 170 superyachts.
Either way, we are moving into the next 40 years of our history with a strong order book and a solid strategy, and we look forward to working with you all as we unveil exciting new projects and continue to grow our facilities in the coming months and years. Thank you all for coming, and enjoy the rest of the Monaco Yacht Show.
Spanish studio Daroca Design has introduced Real, an 80-metre yacht concept developed as part of Oceanco’s Simply Custom collection. This approach allows clients to begin with a proven platform by Lateral Naval Architects, then customise both the exterior and interior.According to designer Alejandro Crespo, Real is a “true reflection of a desire for sleek minimalism and perfect proportions,” with an exterior intended to “integrate into the natural landscape.” The design features flowing lines, curved superstructure details, and glass bulwarks. A beach club includes two pools and direct water access via a swim platform. The concept also shows generous lounging areas, a helipad at the bow, and white furnishings for a contemporary look.Crespo describes Real as “a symbol of sincerity and distinction,” designed for both calm coastlines and open waters, with the goal of reconnecting with nature, family, friends, and “the beauty of life.”The Simply Custom designs incorporate advanced technical elements such as optimised stabilisation, pod drives, electric propulsion, and onboard battery storage. Oceanco states that the platform supports renewable diesel fuels like HVO, which can reduce carbon emissions by 80 to 90 per cent compared to standard marine diesel.Real’s unveiling follows the introduction of other Simply Custom concepts, including North West Boatworks’ Aurora earlier in the month.Credit: Daroca Design
December 20, 2024
Aiata, a brand entering the boating market under the Turkish conglomerate Anadolu Group, will make its global debut at Boot Düsseldorf 2025. The show, held from January 18 to January 26, 2025, attracts over 250,000 visitors and more than 1,900 exhibitors worldwide. Aiata will present the Wayfinder 38 in three variations: Cabin, Open, and a specialized Fishing configuration derived from the other two models.The Wayfinder 38 is a 25-foot outboard walkaround designed by Finnish designer Jarkko Jämsén. Aiata states that this model “stands for flexibility, comfort and craftsmanship.” The Cabin version includes a wheelhouse layout with an L-shaped salon, integrated galley, Webasto sunroof, and air conditioning system. It offers teak furniture, a queen-size bed, an enclosed bathroom, and 2-meter ceilings. Its wheelhouse incorporates a lift-up mechanism connecting the interior and cockpit. The bow area features a U-shaped sofa with a hi-low table.The Open model is designed for a more outdoor experience, featuring a suntop and a continuous salon layout intended to create a seamless connection between interior and exterior spaces. Oak furniture complements the open deck.A Fishing configuration is also available, applicable to both Cabin and Open models. It includes a spacious foredeck sunbed and is described as ergonomic and intuitive, making it suitable for day cruises, watersports, or fishing activities. The Wayfinder 38 offers outboard engine options ranging from 300 to 425 horsepower.Yutkun TokYutkun Tok, General Manager of Aiata, said: “We are honored to participate in Boot Düsseldorf, a prestigious platform that celebrates the pinnacle of the boating world. The Wayfinder 38 embodies Aiata’s mission to deliver versatile, high-performance boats backed by the Anadolu Group’s legacy of innovation and excellence. For Aiata, this is a defining moment – not only because we are showcasing the Wayfinder 38, but because it reflects the expertise and unwavering commitment to quality that define the Anadolu Group. Aiata benefits from the financial strength and engineering excellence of Anadolu Group, ensuring every vessel we produce is a symbol of reliability, innovation, and craftsmanship. We look forward to sharing our passion for boating with enthusiasts from around the globe.”Credits: Aiata
December 20, 2024
Antonini Navi, established in 2020 by the Antonini Group in collaboration with engineer Aldo Manna, has announced the successful joining of the hull and superstructure for its Seamore 34 superyacht. According to the shipyard, “The steel hull was connected to the aluminum superstructure using bimetal,” and with this phase completed, the focus will now shift to the vessel’s internal compartmentalization.Seamore 34, featuring design and development by Hot Lab, is the first model in a “semi-custom” series scheduled for launch in the second half of 2025. The yacht’s profile is described as having “a high, dominant bow” that gives it a “sleek and sporty feel,” combined with superstructure volumes that result in “an elegant, maritime look.” The concept prioritizes versatility and flexibility, as well as open spaces that “create unique settings for sharing and conviviality among guests.”The shipyard states: “One of the most interesting features of Seamore 34 is the more than 150-square-meter open-air living space on the main deck, much of which can be closed off if needed by sliding pocket windows fitted flush with the deck.”At the current stage of construction, potential buyers, captains, and brokers can arrange onboard visits. These inspections, guided by engineers from the shipyard’s technical office, provide industry professionals the opportunity to examine the yacht’s construction quality and design firsthand.The Pertusola shipyard in the Gulf of La Spezia was bought by Walter Antonini in 1977. Since then, Antonini Navi has been a family-held leader in superyacht custom build and refitting.Credits: Antonini Navi
December 20, 2024
Turkish shipyard Sarp Yachts has released the first interior renderings of the XSR 85 RPH, a 25.9-metre raised-pilothouse model set to debut in late 2025. Developed in collaboration with Red Yacht Design and Van Oossanen Naval Architects, the yacht is described as having “more expansive interior and exterior spaces” compared to previous models in the XSR series.According to the shipyard, the interior design takes cues from “the captivating beauty of ocean life,” using light tones and airy spaces to promote a connection to the seascape. The yacht accommodates five cabins, including a main deck master cabin with a private bow terrace. Al fresco dining options are available on the sundeck, and lounge areas are located on the main deck aft and swim platform.Design director of Red Yacht Design, Cana Gokhan, stated: “The XSR 85 RPH represents our commitment to pushing boundaries in yacht design. By integrating an ocean-inspired theme with modern luxury and optimising both interior and exterior spaces, we’ve created a yacht that sets a new benchmark in its category."Elkin Yildirim, general manager of Sarp Yachts, added: “The XSR 85 RPH represents a leap forward in yacht design and functionality. In this project, we push boundaries and craft a vessel that merges elegance, comfort and practicality. We are thrilled to share these remarkable interiors, which perfectly reflect our dedication to innovation and excellence."Credit: Sarp Yachts
December 19, 2024
The 2025 RORC Transatlantic Race’s multihull lineup presents a departure from recent years, as a range of different vessels seek Line Honours in the MOCRA Class. Previous editions were dominated by MOD70s, but this year’s field promises greater diversity.Among the competitors is Oren Nataf’s Pulsar 50 Rayon Vert (FRA). In 2021, Rayon Vert secured overall line honours in the RORC Transatlantic Race, finishing in 9 days 2 hours 33 minutes and 19 seconds, and later took second place in MOCRA for the 2021 Rolex Fastnet Race. For the 2025 edition, Rayon Vert will race double-handed with François Seruzier.Miami-based Jacopo Bracco enters with the custom 53-foot trimaran Finn (USA), designed by Renaud Banuls. Bracco has raced multihulls since childhood, and Finn’s crew includes individuals with MOD70 experience, such as project manager Sam Mabey, 5.80 Transat winner Etienne Messikommer, and record-setter Jeff Mearing. Bracco stated: “In the right conditions, Finn can easily hit 20 knots and surf at 30!” He also noted one concession: “I have found a real Italian restaurant in Lanzarote which will be preparing some great meals. I am originally Italian, so there is no way we are going to race without good food!”Clarin Mustad’s Alibi 54 trimaran Dakota returns after failing to start in 2024 due to rudder issues. Now prepared in Lanzarote, Dakota could finish in about 12 days under ideal conditions. Mustad, new to ocean racing, said: “I prefer to compete rather than cruise because it makes the journey so much more exciting.” Dakota, bearing a Grenadian sail number, will be crewed by experienced sailors including co-skipper Carles Boned Roig and Christina Menabó, plus other friends.Thierry Roger’s Newick 39 trimaran Perros-Guirec, a sistership to the 1978 Route du Rhum winner Olympus Photos, will also compete. Roger will race double-handed with longtime colleague Renan Le Penven and aims to maintain an average speed of 10 knots. Roger, who has waited years to attempt a transatlantic crossing, said: “This will be my first transatlantic, but I have looked out over that ocean all my life… Now, at 64, I work less, so I have raced the boat in many regattas, but my ultimate goal is the 2026 Route du Rhum.”These entries join others in the Multihull Class at the RORC Transatlantic Race, supported by Calero Marinas, the International Maxi Association, and the Yacht Club de France. The race is scheduled to start on January 12, 2025, from Marina Lanzarote, covering 3,000 miles to Camper & Nicholsons Port Louis Marina in Grenada.Credit: RORС
December 19, 2024