• Guests

    12

  • Cabins

    6

  • Crew

    9

Length GT Built
163' 5"
 499 GT 2025
Beam Draft Top Speed
29' 10" 7' 1" 16.3 Kts

The 49.8m motor yacht Project Orion is being constructed by Dutch shipyard Heesen and is due to be delivered in 2025. The yacht's exteriors have been penned by Omega Architects, while Cristiano Gatto Design has designed her interiors.

Key Features

  • Floor-to-ceiling windows
  • Spacious sundeck lounge bar, jacuzzi.
  • 6.2m tender launched with a 2400kg crane
  • Full-beam owner's suite
  • Beach club includes gym, sauna
  • Four cruising modes

Design & Construction

Designed around a fast displacement aluminium hull and superstructure she features a 9.1m beam and a 2.15m draft. The yacht is built over 3 decks with an internal volume of 499 GT (Gross Tonnes).

Construction started in late 2022. Launched in December 2024 this yacht undertook sea trials over the following months.

Exterior Design

The exterior design of Project Orion is characterized by its modern and angular aesthetic, by Frank Laupman of Omega Architects. The yacht's sharp lines, chiselled bow, and long waterline contribute to a strong presence on water, enhancing its performance in rough seas with effective buoyancy and seakeeping capabilities. The design prioritizes an efficient use of space, providing more exterior deck area compared to similar-sized yachts.

The rectangular bulwark openings and straight sliding doors highlight the yacht's angular design, while the tapered interior saloons add a touch of elegance to the aft section. A notable feature is the fold-down transom platform, which expands the beach club and offers stepped access to a glass-sided veranda that leads into the main saloon.

Orion features a considerable amount of onboard glass, presenting a sporty and striking appearance. This design includes 33% more external glass than previous 50-meter Heesen semi-displacements, offering a sense of openness to the natural surroundings and ensuring light-filled guest areas. 

Interior Design

Project Orion features floor-to-ceiling windows that offer extensive views, complemented by soft grey carpets and polished steel accents. The main salon is highlighted by a silver Majilite ceiling, which adds a touch of sophistication to the space.

In the galley, functionality is key. It is located amidships on the main deck, strategically positioned for ease of service. The open-plan design of the main deck saloon allows for a fluid transition between the lounge and the dining area, which can accommodate up to ten guests. Sliding doors offer the option to partition the space when needed.

The helm and wheelhouse deck are practical and efficient. This deck includes a skylounge, captain's cabin, and the wheelhouse itself.  

Accommodation

Project Orion, built by Heesen, accommodates up to twelve guests across six well-appointed cabins. The yacht features a full-beam owner’s stateroom, offering a spacious and luxurious environment with Nabuk walls and oak Tatumi flooring. Complemented by a white lacquered ceiling and sunken LED lighting, the owner’s suite includes a bathroom clad with Patagonia marble and polished white Lasa marble.

In addition to the owner’s suite, guests can enjoy a full-beam VIP suite, two double guest suites and two twin guest suites, ensuring flexibility and privacy for all onboard.

For the crew, Project Orion offers four cabins and a crew mess, supporting a staff of nine. This thoughtful arrangement ensures that the crew can provide exceptional service while maintaining their own comfort and privacy.

Performance & Capabilities

Powered by twin diesel-electric MTU (12V 2000 M61) 816hp engines, motor yacht Project Orion is capable of reaching a top speed of 16 knots, and comfortably cruises at 12 knots. With her 47,000 litre fuel tanks she has a maximum range of 3,750 nautical miles at 12 knots.

The hybrid system is designed to operate in four distinct cruising modes, each offering specific benefits tailored to different priorities. In Electric Propulsion Mode, the yacht relies solely on electric motors, allowing it to achieve speeds of up to 9 knots. This mode is notably quiet, with noise levels in the owner’s stateroom reaching a mere 46 dB(A). The hybrid system's ability to minimize vibration ensures a smooth and serene cruising experience, while fuel consumption is limited to 70 liters per hour, reflecting its efficiency.

In Cruising Mode, Orion operates between 12 and 15 knots, using both the main engines and generators. This setup provides a balance of power and efficiency, ideal for longer journeys. Boost Mode, a combination of diesel and electric propulsion, allows Orion to reach a top speed of 16.3 knots. This mode harnesses the full potential of the main engines and electric motors, offering enhanced performance for those seeking higher speeds.

Economic Mode represents the conventional approach, wherein the main engines drive the propellers while the generators supply power for onboard amenities. This mode supports speeds of up to 12 knots, providing a practical solution for daily cruising.

Project Orion Yacht is For Sale

Project Orion is currently on the market for sale with an asking price of €45,900,000 EUR. View all Heesen 50m Aluminium FDHF Yachts for sale from around the world.

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