The Dutch superyacht industry is witnessing a renaissance as Heesen Yachts embarks upon what promises to be its most ambitious year yet. Fresh from its transformative acquisition by entrepreneur Laurens Last in 2025, the prestigious shipyard has unveiled plans that position it at the forefront of luxury yacht construction, with nine vessels currently under construction and three major deliveries scheduled for 2026.
As the Chinese New Year ushers in the Year of the Fire Horse, Heesen Yachts has begun 2026 with unprecedented momentum, marking a new chapter in the company’s illustrious history of Dutch craftsmanship and maritime excellence.
Strategic Vision Under New Ownership
The acquisition by Laurens Last has brought renewed vigour to the shipyard, establishing a foundation for sustained growth and innovation. This strategic transformation has already begun to yield impressive results, with three yachts sold in 2025 and a robust order book extending deliveries through to 2027.
Jeroen van der Meer, CEO of Heesen Yachts, expressed his optimism for the year ahead: “If 2025 was about transformation and securing our foundation under Laurens Last, 2026 is about action. The Fire Horse embodies the drive and passion we see in our workforce every day.”
The shipyard’s renewed focus centres on redefining standards within the 50 to 70-metre superyacht market, a segment that continues to attract luxury enthusiasts seeking the same elevated experiences found in destinations like London’s prestigious Mayfair district.
Impressive Construction Portfolio
Nine superyachts sit simultaneously under construction at Heesen’s facilities. The shipyard will deliver an impressive 162 linear metres and 2,179 gross tons of superyacht during 2026 alone.
January saw the successful joining of the hull and superstructure of the 57-metre Project Evita, marking a crucial phase in the vessel’s development. Project Sophia will depart the outfitting shed soon. And Project Setteesettanta awaits its highly anticipated launch.
Revolutionary Client-Centric Approach
Under its new ownership, Heesen has introduced an innovative ‘client centric’ approach that fundamentally reshapes how the shipyard engages with its discerning clientele. This strategic shift focuses on showcasing the Heesen fleet in their natural environment: on the water.
Heesen will appear at premier international boat shows throughout 2026, beginning with the Palm Beach International Boat Show in spring. The Dubai International Boat Show, Monaco Yacht Show, Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, and Qatar Boat Show follow.
This philosophy recognises that potential clients require experiential engagement with vessels that represent significant investments and lifestyle choices. No static displays. Real sailing. Much like the attention to detail seen in luxury hospitality venues such as premier London showrooms, the focus is on creating immersive experiences.
Project Frida: Steel Series Excellence
Leading the 2026 delivery schedule is Project Frida, a 55-metre masterpiece from Heesen’s Steel series, scheduled for launch in Q1 2026. Clean, crisp styling meets muscular yet elegant aesthetics. The vessel offers substantial luxury whilst remaining compact enough to access charming Mediterranean ports.
The interior design, crafted by the renowned Luca Dini Design & Architecture, presents a contemporary interpretation of classic yacht design principles. Light, neutral tones combine with rich mahogany wood and sophisticated dark brown accents.
Project Frida accommodates up to twelve guests across six expertly appointed staterooms. The impressive 86-square-metre owner’s suite sits on the main deck. Additionally, the yacht provides accommodation for thirteen crew members.
Project Sophia: Innovative Fast-Cruising Design
Scheduled for launch in Q2 2026, Project Sophia represents the fourth hull in Heesen’s groundbreaking 50-metre class. This all-aluminium vessel runs on green ocean engines whilst maintaining impressive performance capabilities.
At precisely 50 metres and remaining below 500 GT, Project Sophia achieves significant regulatory advantages whilst delivering exceptional cruising capabilities. The yacht is the first of its kind below 500 GT to comply with IMO Tier-III regulations.
Omega Architects created a curvy, sporty exterior design that perfectly complements Sophia’s performance credentials. Heesen’s engineering team developed an optimised, low-drag hull with reduced transom depth, allowing for a shallow shaft angle. This innovative approach ensures comfort in rough seas whilst providing perfect capabilities for cruising shallow waters.
Project Sophia’s elevated aft deck accommodates large sunpads accessed via three elegant steps. This design element enables a full-height multi-purpose tender garage that transforms into a luxury beach club on the lower deck, complete with generous headroom.
The downward-pointing bow provides excellent sight lines to the water from the bridge whilst accentuating Sophia’s long, sleek profile.
Project Setteesettanta: Fourth-Deck Innovation
Project Setteesettanta, a 57-metre fast displacement superyacht scheduled for launch in Q3 2026, holds the distinction of being the first Heesen yacht to feature a bridge positioned on the fourth deck. The yacht maintains the shipyard’s characteristic sleek appearance whilst incorporating innovative design elements.
The sophisticated design includes an unobtrusive mast and revolutionary flat Star Link communication panels, integrating cutting-edge technology without compromising aesthetic appeal.
Project Angelica: Steel Series Expansion
Project Angelica represents the newest addition to Heesen’s 55-metre Steel series, scheduled for launch in October 2026. Sold at the end of 2024, the yacht’s new owner is currently finalising interior design features in collaboration with Luca Dini Design & Architecture.
Interior space spans nearly 400 square metres, accommodating up to twelve guests. Project Angelica’s Fast Displacement Hull Form reduces fuel consumption by up to 30 percent whilst providing superior comfort at sea and achieving impressive performance with a top speed of 15.5 knots.
Sustainable Innovation and Environmental Leadership
Heesen’s commitment to environmental responsibility extends beyond regulatory compliance. The incorporation of green ocean engines, efficient hull designs, and reduced fuel consumption technologies demonstrates the shipyard’s dedication to responsible luxury.
The Fast Displacement Hull Form technology featured across multiple projects offers owners the dual benefits of reduced environmental impact and enhanced operational efficiency without compromising performance or comfort.
Market Position and Future Outlook
With its robust order book and revitalised strategic vision, Heesen enters 2026 positioned to redefine standards within the 50 to 70-metre superyacht market segment. Time-honoured Dutch shipbuilding traditions combine with contemporary innovation, creating vessels that appeal to discerning clients seeking both luxury and responsibility, similar to the sophisticated clientele who appreciate Michelin-starred dining experiences.
Three yacht sales in 2025, combined with current construction portfolio extending through 2027, demonstrates strong market confidence in Heesen’s direction under new ownership.
Heesen’s ambitious plans for 2026 embody a comprehensive vision for the future of luxury yacht construction. Under the leadership of Laurens Last and CEO Jeroen van der Meer, the shipyard has successfully balanced respect for traditional Dutch craftsmanship with innovation in design, sustainability, and client engagement.
