COMMITTED TO INNOVATION

The F usually comes after the E. But not for Niels Vaessen. After 10 years, heʼdropped the F of Cfo and chose an E. From Cfo to Ceo: on November 1, 2023 he became Heesen Chief Executive Officer. An internal promotion that ensures continuity in the design and development of a company specializing in the production of 50- to 80-meter superyachts at Oss shipyards. But thatʼs not all. As Vaessen says: «We are committed to investing in research and development to ensure that we continue to provide our customers with the most innovative and reliable products». Heesen will deliver 15 new boats by 2027: big boats, big projects to meet the big challenges this market, though niche, faces globally. From the development of new powertrains, from hybrid to the use of alternative fuels, to the evolution of the design of new, increasingly high-performance hulls, research cannot ignore design, which is increasingly important in the search for more efficient and sustainable solutions. We talked about this and more with Niels Vaessen at the Monaco Yacht Show last September.

Performance, speed, style, efficiency and quality are the themes that characterize the en-

tire nautical shipbuilding industry. How do they translate into the design and production

of a Heesen superyacht?

At Heesen, we utilise lightweight aluminum alloy for our hulls and superstructures, a key factor in optimising hull drag and reducing resistance. This material not only enhances speed

and performance but also contributes to significant advantages, such as decreased fuel consumption and a shallower draft. These benefits allow our yachts, like the recently delivered 57m Santosha and her successor Evita, to navigate specific areas, including the stunning waters of the Bahamas, where access can be limited for larger vessels. Our meticulous approach to weight reduction and management during construction ensures that we deliver exceptional experiences on board while maintaining our commitment to efficiency and performance. This commitment to efficiency translates into our designs, characterized by streamlined lines and elongated shapes. Every designer who has collaborated with Heesen has kept this principle in mind, embodying our unique DNA in each vessel. Renowned designers like Omega Architects, Winch Design, and Harrison Eidsgaard have all skillfully interpreted our DNA, resulting in boats that exhibit a striking, fast appearance. Their ability to blend aesthetics with performance is a testament to our shared vision of creating exceptional yachts.

Innovation is another distinctive characteristic of the nautical industry, and it also identifies Heesen production. What does innovating mean in 2024? Keels and hulls can improve efficiency in terms of performance and especially consumption. How do you relate to the concept of sustainability in the nautical industry? Does it make sense to talk about environmental sustainability on board 50-metre boats?

Innovation is a hallmark of the nautical industry and a defining characteristic of Heesenʼs production. In 2024, innovating means enhancing the efficiency of keels and hulls to improve both performance and fuel consumption.

Sustainability is at the core of our operations. We were the first to implement the ultra-efficient Fast Displacement Hull Form (FDFH), developed by van Oossanen. As leaders in light-weight construction, we understand that reducing weight minimises drag, directly impacting efficiency and reducing fuel consumption. Our commitment extends to heat reuse, optimising hotel loads, enhancing propeller efficiency, and incorporating sustainable materials into interior outfitting. There is certainly room to discuss sustainability within our industry, even on 50-metre superyachts. There is a growing emphasis on building yachts with a reduced environmental footprint, reflecting an increased awareness of the need for responsible yachting. At Heesen, we embrace this shift and remain dedicated to advancing sustainable practices in our designs and constructions. As part of our commitment to sustainable innovation, the Heesen BlueNautech program is focused on integrating cutting-edge technologies that promote environmental responsibility in yacht design and operation. Through this initiative, we aim to enhance energy efficiency, reduce emissions, and improve overall performance by incorporating advanced systems for energy management and optimisation. BlueNautech not only highlights our dedication to innovative engineering but also ensures that our yachts remain at the forefront of sustainable luxury, providing our clients with an exceptional experience while preserving the beauty of our oceans for future generations.

Engines: some are thinking about hydrogen, others are aiming for hybrid. What is your

policy on the subject?

We are constantly striving to be at the forefront of innovation in the sector. We are actively exploring solutions for alternative fuels but prefer not to share specific details at this stage. We prioritise data-driven decision-making and transparency, and therefore, we only communicate updates when we have solid, verifiable results. We will share more concrete updates as they are available, and you will be the first to hear about it.

Do you think that hybrid engines could represent a medium-long term solution or is it just

a transitional moment towards future solutions that are yet to be tested?

I believe that hybrid engines represent an important transitional step towards more sustainable yachting solutions. While they provide significant advantages in efficiency and reduced emissions, they are not the ultimate solution. Our implementation of hybrid propulsion systems, combined with the ultra-efficient FDHF hull, positions us well as we explore the next phase of innovation in the industry. Looking ahead, I see methanol as a promising direction for the future. It offers a cleaner alternative and aligns with our commitment to pioneering eco-friendly technologies.

What is design for the Ceo of Heesen? Is it just a market driver or does it represent some-

thing more?

We believe that design is much more than a market driver; it is a fundamental aspect of our identity and craftsmanship. As a Dutch shipyard, this philosophy informs our design process and drives us to create yachts that excel in both form and function. Each vessel we build aims to meet the highest standards of craftsmanship while providing an exceptional experience for our clients. In short, design at Heesen embodies our dedication to excellence, ensuring every yacht is a remarkable blend of practicality and artistry. Our yachts are a testament to our rich heritage, characterised by their distinctive design that makes them instantly recognisable. Heesen yachts are poised for action, featuring a streamlined profile that enhances performance, even for our displacement long-range vessels.

You have a repeat clientele. Many come back to you to have a second boat built: what is the secret to retaining customers who are often demanding, very demanding?

We are fortunate to have a loyal base of repeat clients, and while thereʼs no secret recipe to this success, our approach is fundamentally rooted in trust and relationship-building. Firstly, we strive to keep our promises, ensuring that our clients receive exactly what we commit to during the design and build process. This reliability is crucial, especially when working with demanding clients who expect the highest standards. Additionally, we focus on making the entire experience enjoyable, from the initial consultation to the final delivery. We keep communication open and transparent throughout, allowing our clients to feel involved and valued at every stage. Even after delivery, our support doesnʼt stop. We prioritise maintaining a connection with our clients, ensuring they feel like part of the Heesen family. By providing ongoing support and being available for their needs, we foster a sense of loyalty that encourages them to return for future projects. Ultimately, itʼs about creating lasting relationships and delivering not just exceptional yachts, but also an exceptional experience.

And above all, how do you set up the relationship with the client?

Establishing a strong relationship with our clients is fundamental to our approach. We believe that trust is built on delivering on our promises, honoring our commitments, and following through on our handshake agreements. This foundation of trust is vital, especially as we navi gate challenging moments and complex negotiations. We make it a priority to maintain open and honest communication throughout the entire process, ensuring that our clients feel heard and valued. By being transparent and loyal, we can effectively manage expectations and foster a collaborative atmosphere. Itʼs about creating a partnership where clients feel secure and confident in their decisions, which ultimately leads to long-lasting relationships and satisfaction with their experience.

The United States and Europe represent your most important market share, but the superyacht market is global. Could Asia represent a new frontier for maxi yachts? What are the most interesting markets for large shipyards and for Heesen in particular? Does Europe still offer good opportunities?

Asia is undoubtedly an emerging frontier for larger yachts. We have observed a growing interest in luxury superyachts among Asian clientele. A notable example is our recent sale of

a 55-meter yacht to an Asian client. This follows our successful transaction of the 47-meter yacht, previously known as Book Ends, which was sold to a client in Hong Kong and has since been renamed Artisa. The increasing demand for luxury vessels is complemented by the development of infrastructure that supports superyacht cruising destinations across the region. Australia also represents a significant market for us. Several of our yachts have found their new homes there, a testament to the strong appreciation for our quality craftsmanship and luxury experiences. Moreover, the Middle East remains a critical market. Clients in this region have developed a refined taste for superyachts, and we are proud to have many of our large custom yachts beautifully gracing the waters of Dubai. The demand for high-quality vessels in this area continues to grow. Despite the rise of these new markets, the United States and Europe retain their status as the original home of superyacht ownership. European clients remain vital to our business, continuing to appreciate and invest in our products. The market here is robust, and opportunities for growth and collaboration persist. The United States, with its growing number of billionaires and yachting culture, is our most important market.

For many shipowners, design means big names. A trend to avoid, so that boats do not become floating museums. What is Heesenʼs policy on this subject?

At Heesen, we are not afraid to collaborate with prominent names in the industry. In fact, wehave found that often, the bigger the designer, the smaller their ego. These exceptional talents possess a remarkable ability to interpret the Heesen DNA and translate it into a yacht that truly reflects the qualities of our shipyard. Whether we bring in a designer to create a new series or work with clients who wish to engage their own designers for fully custom projects, our focus remains on the essence of what defines a Heesen yacht. When clients come to our yard, they expect their vessel to embody a specific look and feel—characteristics like sportiness, long lines, and a slender body are intrinsic to our design language, regardless of who crafts the lines. We believe that collaboration with leading designers enhances our work and ultimately leads to the creation of stunning vessels that uphold the legacy and standards of Heesen. Our approach balances innovation with our commitment to maintaining the distinct identity of each yacht we produce.

The current trend, perhaps to follow the wishes of shipowners, is to build maxi yachts that

look like yachts.

At Heesen, the current trend of building maxi yachts that resemble traditional yachts aligns with our longstanding philosophy and operational necessities. The geographical location of our shipyard in the Netherlands means that our vessels must navigate through locks and pass under 11 bridges, which has significantly influenced our design approach from the very beginning.As a result, our yachts are crafted to embody the characteristics of slender, athletic vessels rather than appearing palatial or overly extravagant. We prioritise functionality and performance, ensuring that each yacht can handle various sea conditions while maintaining a sleek, elegant profile. This design philosophy not only accommodates the practicalities of our environment but also reinforces our commitment to creating yachts that are both beautiful and truly capable.By embracing this balance, we have forged a distinct identity for our vessels that resonates with both our clients and the broader yachting community. At Heesen, we take pride in our ability to create yachts that combine athletic grace with top-notch performance, ensuring they stand out on the water for all the right reasons