Heesen has announced that the 56.7-meter Santosha (formerly known as Project Akira) has successfully completed her sea trials in the North Sea. She is slated for delivery to her owners in September 2024.
The owners chose the Sanskrit name Santosha for their vessel and the lotus as a logo, symbolizing the idea of “remaining happy in all circumstances and being content with what we can achieve.” The superyacht was initially unveiled at the 2019 Monaco Yacht Show and is the first in a new class of high-speed aluminum builds from the Dutch shipyard.
Construction started in 2022, and the superyacht was sold in 2023, with Wes Sanford of Northrop & Johnson and James Corts of MarineMax representing the buyer.
Her exterior, designed by Omega Architects, showcases a “shapely silhouette” with an elongated profile and a scoop-shaped stern. Extensive use of structural and decorative glass is a focal point of the exterior design, enhancing the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces across her four decks and 780GT interior.
Construction began in 2022
Credit: Heesen
Frank Laupman of Omega Architects noted that the studio “added a touch of aggression through sharp angles,” likening the overall appearance to “a leaping animal.” Like many of Heesen’s fast-cruising models, this new vessel features an ultra-efficient and lightweight Fast Displacement Hull Form (FDHF).
Accommodations are available for a total of 12 guests, including a 63-square-meter owner’s stateroom, a VIP suite on the bridge deck, and four additional guest cabins. All decks can be accessed via a stainless steel and glass elevator, while crew quarters can accommodate a staff of 13.
“The clients were very engaged in developing the interior from the pre-purchase stage,” said Peter Wilson of Marine Construction Management, acting as the owner’s representative. “Now it closely reflects their design inspirations and preferences in layout, materials, and finishes.”
While imagery is not disclosed, it is said that Santosha features “relaxed, elegant” interiors designed by the British studio Harrison Eidsgaard, including a master bathroom inspired by the Garden of Eden, complete with a bas-relief snake by DKT Studio. Recycled wood, high-performance leather, and “art silk” carpets are also incorporated throughout the yacht.
“Our collaboration with Heesen has produced an excellent result,” remarked owner’s representative Peter Wilson. “Together, we have worked as a cohesive team, with each party striving to achieve a world-class superyacht that stands out among its peers. This marks our second project with Heesen, and we look forward to many more in the future.”
Santosha is powered by a pair of IMO III-compliant MTU 16V 4000 M65L engines, enabling a top speed of 22 knots and a range of 4,400 nautical miles at a cruising speed of 12 knots.
According to BOATPro, Santosha is one of 10 models currently on order or under construction at the Dutch shipyard.
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