Heesen’s 57-metre Project Setteesettanta puts the owner on a deck of their own

When experienced owners return to the same shipyard, the brief often becomes more exacting. Heesen’s Project Setteesettanta, a 57-metre full-custom aluminium yacht built for returning clients, reflects that progression: greater privacy, cleaner circulation and the freedom to reach shallower anchorages.

The yacht, known by its build number YN 20857, has launched at Heesen’s Oss shipyard in the Netherlands. Exterior design is by Omega Architects, with interiors by Cristiano Gatto Design. Across four decks, the defining decision is to dedicate an entire level to the owners.

That layout changes the social hierarchy on board. Rather than placing an owner’s suite within a shared accommodation deck, it creates a private domain removed from guest circulation. For long periods aboard, particularly with family or charter-style entertaining, that separation can be more valuable than simply increasing cabin dimensions.

Aluminium construction supports the yacht’s relatively light, performance-oriented character. Heesen lists a maximum speed of 18 knots — enough to shorten passages between destinations while preserving the refinement expected of a 57-metre vessel. A draught of about 2.3 metres expands potential cruising grounds and anchoring choices compared with deeper yachts of similar volume.

The shallow draught is not merely a technical statistic. It can materially affect how owners experience a coastline, allowing closer approaches to beaches, islands and bays that would otherwise require a long tender transfer. For a yacht designed around private use, that flexibility makes the platform feel more connected to the water.

Omega Architects’ exterior work gives the vessel a long, low visual line, while Gatto’s interiors remain largely a private matter until fuller photography is released. The most successful custom yachts use design to make complex crew, service and guest movements appear effortless. Project Setteesettanta’s four-deck plan will be judged on precisely that balance.

Its launch begins another intensive phase rather than marking completion. Outfitting, commissioning, trials and final delivery remain, and performance claims should be treated as shipyard targets until verified in operation.

For prospective owners, the project’s relevance lies in its priorities. The industry often celebrates length, but Setteesettanta shows a more mature form of luxury: privacy through planning, cruising access through naval architecture and a highly specific response to how repeat owners actually spend time aboard.

Fact box

– Yacht: Project Setteesettanta, YN 20857
– Builder: Heesen Yachts
– Length: 57 metres
– Construction: Full-custom aluminium
– Exterior: Omega Architects
– Interior: Cristiano Gatto Design
– Decks: Four, including private owner’s deck
– Maximum speed: 18 knots stated
– Draught: Approximately 2.3 metres stated