Don’t let its superyacht status deceive you. The YN 19550 Project Altea is light on its feet (or hull) and will take you places with much ease
Good things come to those who wait, though in this case, there’ll probably be minimal waiting time. Dutch shipyard Heesen Yachts has completed its 50m YN 19550 Project Altea, which was completed just last month and is available for delivery this month.
Generous in size and style, this superyacht has a sleek exterior profile designed by Frank Laupman of Omega Architects and almost 350sqm in interior area, which has been perfected by Cristiano Gatto. Within this space are six staterooms – each with an en-suite bathroom – that can accommodate up to 12 guests and a further five cabins for a nine-member crew. Thanks to the state-of-the-art Nova Plus design and engineering platform, the vessel comes in at 499 in gross tonnage (GT), just under the 500GT threshold that will result in it being subjected to additional regulations. Project Altea is only the second model by Heesen to be built using this platform, and judging by its success, it probably won’t be the last.
No lumbering giant, the yacht is propelled by two MTU 12V 2000 M72 engines with a maximum power of 1,080kW each and will cut through water at a top speed of 19.5 knots. At a cruising speed of 12 knots, it is expected to have a range of 3,750 nautical miles, which will take you from Singapore to Japan with ease. The impressive fuel efficiency and high performance were made possible by the full-aluminium, fast displacement hull form, which reduces resistance in water. It’s no wonder that the vessel is touted as one of the fastest and most economical in its class.
Technical brilliance may make for a smooth sailing experience, but it’s the little extras that add a much-appreciated touch of luxury. Take for example the floor-to-ceiling windows that keep the salon spacious and light, full-beam owner’s stateroom on the main deck or the cabins bathed in soothing blue carpentry. The jacuzzi on the sun deck also makes for a great afternoon cool-off for when Project Altea is cruising.
This story first appeared in the June 2021 issue. Purchase it as a hard or digital copy, or have luxury delivered to your door by subscribing here
