Project Akira, or YN 20457, is the first hull in the new all-aluminium 57m Aluminium FDHF series from Heesen Yachts shipyard
The Dutch yard unveiled the project of the superyacht recently renamed Santosha in 2019 in Monaco, but construction on her started in February 2022.
The FDHF hull and naval architecture of the vessel are owed to Van Oossanen Naval Architects. The exterior design was penned by Frank Laupman’s Omega Architects, and the interiors come from the British Harrison Eidsgaard studio.
According to the shipyard, the original design of the superyacht built on speculation was changed considerably after the owners came on board. Heesen Yachts interior engineers in close collaboration with Harrison Eidsgaard managed to tailor the yacht’s style to the owners’ individual taste and lifestyle. Thus, Project Akira transformed into Santosha, which is the name that the future owners gave to the yacht.
Santosha is the Sanskrit for “inner contentment” or “satisfaction”. As a logo the owners chose the lotus, which, together with the name of the yacht, reminds them of the need to “remain happy under any circumstances or be contented with what we can achieve through our capacity”.
Santosha’s owners wanted to create the interior with a relaxed but elegant ambience. They took active part in the design process and focused on the use of such eco-friendly materials as recycled wood, performance leather and 'art silk' carpets. Thanks to the free-flowing layout and neutral colour palette, the yacht manages to combine both luxury and functionality, a refined architectural hierarchy, consistency and meticulous detailing. As an example, one can mention woven leather accents around the TV in the sky lounge, the gleaming curved wallpapers and the works of art that add a playful and brave touch to the serene and elevated decor.
The full-beam owner’s suite is almost 70 sq.m. In addition to the bedroom with a large bed there is a study and a spacious bathroom with exquisite design inspired by bas-relief techniques, designed in collaboration with the client and London-based DKT studio.
Other guest cabins feature light and elegant aesthetics, bright colourful accents, carefully selected works of art and contemporary photographs. The yacht can accommodate up to 12 guests and a crew of 13.
Contemporary, dynamic exterior design with sharp angles and rugged outlines is balanced with smooth lines. It is interesting that the exterior design matches the owners’ sacred animal, the snake, symbolizing renewal and rebirth.
Twin MTU 16V 4000 M65L engines (IMO Tier III) allow the yacht with an aluminium FDHD hull from Van Oossanen Naval Architects to reach a top speed of 22 knots and provide a range of 3900 nautical miles at 13 knots. The draft of 2.3 m makes her suitable for shallow waters like the Bagamas, which is another important benefit for the owners.
“Santosha is a yacht designed for those who appreciate the finer things in life, combining elegance with practicality and meticulous attention to detail with a relaxed ambience. It stands as a true testament to Heesen Yachts' commitment to excellence and innovation in yacht building," said Heesen's CCO Mark Cavendish.
The preparations for Santosha’s delivery are currently at the final stage, and the yard is planning to deliver her this autumn.
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