Heesen
Corporate brand
UnclaimedHeesen is a Dutch superyacht shipyard known for high-performance aluminium and steel motor yachts built in Oss.
Last updated November 4, 2026
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Overview
Heesen is a Dutch luxury shipbuilding brand and superyacht manufacturer headquartered in Oss, North Brabant. Founded in 1978 by entrepreneur Frans Heesen, the company developed from a small yard producing aluminium Striker boats into one of the best-known builders of high-performance custom and semi-custom motor yachts. Its name is associated particularly with fast aluminium yachts, advanced hull design, integrated engineering and a distinctly Dutch approach to in-house construction. The company’s early identity was built around speed and lightweight construction. In 1988, Heesen delivered Octopussy, a 38-metre yacht capable of exceeding 50 knots. The yacht became a defining technological and commercial breakthrough, demonstrating that a luxury superyacht could combine high speed with sophisticated accommodation and large-yacht engineering. This achievement established Heesen as an international specialist rather than a conventional recreational-boat builder. During the 1990s, Heesen broadened its portfolio. It entered the steel displacement market with Achiever in 1992, adding long-range cruising capability to its established performance-oriented products. In 1996, it delivered Obsession, a large sport-fishing yacht that extended the brand into another specialist segment. The company subsequently developed a wider range of aluminium semi-displacement, fast-displacement and steel displacement platforms, while retaining the ability to execute fully customized projects. Heesen’s current business model combines three principal build concepts: Series yachts based on engineered platforms and speculation construction; Smart Custom yachts that balance proven hulls with meaningful owner customization; and Full Custom projects developed from a blank sheet or an original concept. This model allows the shipyard to serve clients seeking shorter delivery times as well as owners commissioning highly individualized vessels. The company states that it builds its yachts largely in-house, using its Oss shipyard for naval architecture, engineering, metalwork and assembly and its Winterswijk facility for interior production and cabinetry. The brand’s product range includes aluminium fast yachts, fast-displacement yachts, steel long-range yachts, hybrid-powered yachts, explorer concepts and large custom superyachts. Notable projects include Octopussy, Galactica Star, Galactica Super Nova, Home, Cosmos, SkyFall and the 80-metre Genesis, formerly known as Project Cosmos. Heesen’s yachts are marketed around performance, styling, engineering efficiency, craftsmanship and owner-specific design rather than volume production. Ownership has changed several times. The company was controlled by its founder and family for many years, was acquired by Russian entrepreneur Vagit Alekperov in 2008, and was transferred to an independent Dutch foundation in 2022 amid sanctions-related concerns following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. In April 2025, Dutch entrepreneur and investor Laurens Last acquired Heesen outright. Under Last, the company has emphasized operational efficiency, shorter delivery times, data-driven maintenance, artificial intelligence, digital twins, expansion in international markets and a broader product strategy covering classic, sporty, explorer and regionally adapted yachts. Heesen remains a private, active Dutch shipyard. Its international customer base, global sales network and portfolio of yachts operating in many cruising regions make it a globally recognized luxury marine brand, while its manufacturing identity remains firmly rooted in the Netherlands.
History
Heesen was founded in 1978 in Oss by Frans Heesen, an entrepreneur whose earlier business activities were connected with plastics. Heesen acquired the Striker Boats shipyard site with the intention of using it for another enterprise, but retained the yard and continued boat production. The company initially concentrated on aluminium boats, including Striker models, and in 1979 launched the 20-metre Amigo, the first yacht to carry the Heesen name. The company’s formative identity came from lightweight construction and speed. During the 1980s, Heesen worked with naval architects and propulsion specialists to develop performance-oriented motor yachts that could combine high speed with luxury accommodation. The most important early project was YN7038 Octopussy, launched in 1988. The 38-metre yacht exceeded 50 knots and became an international technical and publicity breakthrough. It demonstrated that Heesen could challenge much larger or more established yards in the high-performance superyacht market. In 1992, Heesen expanded beyond fast luxury yachts by delivering Achiever, a 50-metre steel displacement yacht developed for longer-range cruising. This marked the beginning of a durable second product tradition: steel yachts designed around endurance, volume and comfort rather than maximum speed. Four years later, Heesen entered the large sport-fishing market with Obsession, a 37-metre yacht that was described at the time as the world’s largest and most powerful sport fisherman. These projects helped the yard diversify without abandoning its performance heritage. The 2000s brought expansion in scale, infrastructure and ownership. Heesen developed increasingly large custom yachts and expanded its facilities in 2008, increasing its ability to build multiple yachts simultaneously. That same year, the company was acquired by Russian entrepreneur Vagit Alekperov. Under this ownership, Heesen continued to grow its international profile and developed a portfolio that included large aluminium, steel and fast-displacement yachts. The 2010s were characterized by engineering experimentation and a succession of notable projects. Galactica Star, delivered in 2013, was Heesen’s first fast-displacement yacht and won numerous design and industry awards. Alive introduced a Hull Vane system intended to improve efficiency and reduce fuel consumption. Galactica Super Nova, delivered in 2016, became the largest Heesen yacht at the time, reaching 70 metres. In 2016, the yard also invested in an 85-metre dry dock to prepare for larger projects. Home, delivered in 2017, brought hybrid propulsion into Heesen’s production portfolio. Its hybrid arrangement offered multiple operating modes, including quieter and more economical cruising. In 2018, as part of its fortieth-anniversary program, Heesen announced Project Cosmos, an 80-metre aluminium yacht that became one of the company’s most ambitious projects. The yacht was later known as Galactica Cosmos and subsequently Genesis. Other high-profile projects included SkyFall, a 59-metre high-speed custom yacht with four waterjets, and explorer concepts developed with external design studios. Heesen experienced two major challenges in the early 2020s. First, the company faced a workplace-safety prosecution after a worker died in 2017 while welding in a confined space. In 2021, a Dutch court found the shipyard responsible and imposed a fine. Second, the Russian invasion of Ukraine created ownership and sanctions-related uncertainty because Alekperov was connected to Heesen. In May 2022, the company’s shares were transferred to an independent Dutch foundation, restoring nominally Dutch ownership and helping preserve the business and its workforce. In April 2025, Dutch entrepreneur and investor Laurens Last acquired Heesen. The new ownership introduced a more operationally focused strategy, emphasizing manufacturing efficiency, shorter lead times, artificial intelligence, digital twins, predictive maintenance and closer attention to how owners actually use yachts. In September 2025, Jeroen van der Meer became CEO, replacing Niels Vaessen. Heesen’s current portfolio continues to combine Series, Smart Custom and Full Custom construction, with projects spanning aluminium performance yachts, steel displacement yachts, hybrid platforms and larger explorer-oriented designs. Today, Heesen remains based in Oss, with interior production in Winterswijk and sales representation in key international yachting markets. Its historical proposition remains consistent: technically advanced yachts, strong speed and efficiency credentials, bespoke luxury and a high degree of Dutch in-house craftsmanship.
- 2025
Laurens Last acquires Heesen
[4]Dutch entrepreneur Laurens Last completes the acquisition of Heesen Yachts.
- 2025
Jeroen van der Meer becomes CEO
[5]Jeroen van der Meer takes over as CEO in September 2025.
- 2022
Ownership returns to a Dutch foundation
[6]Shares connected with former owner Vagit Alekperov are transferred to an independent Dutch foundation amid sanctions-related concerns.
- 2019
Heesen develops explorer-yacht concepts
[2]The yard announces the Xventure explorer range in collaboration with Winch Design.
- 2018
Project Cosmos is announced
[9]Heesen announces the 80-metre Project Cosmos during its fortieth-anniversary year.
- 2017
Home brings hybrid propulsion into the fleet
[2]Heesen delivers Home, a hybrid-powered yacht designed for quieter and more efficient cruising.
- 2016
Galactica Super Nova and new dry dock
[2]Heesen delivers the 70-metre Galactica Super Nova and invests in an 85-metre dry dock.
- 2013
Galactica Star introduces the fast-displacement concept
[2]Heesen delivers its first fast-displacement yacht, Galactica Star.
- 2008
Shipyard expansion and ownership change
[2]Heesen expands its construction facilities and is acquired by Vagit Alekperov.
- 1996
Expansion into large sport-fishing yachts
[2]The delivery of Obsession expands Heesen into large sport-fishing yachts.
Products and positioning
A Dutch high-performance superyacht builder positioned at the intersection of advanced naval engineering, lightweight aluminium construction, Dutch craftsmanship, bespoke design and luxury long-range cruising.
Performance superyachts · 1978
Aluminium Fast Yachts
Heesen’s aluminium fast yachts are designed around low weight, high power-to-weight ratios and strong performance. The category includes the company’s early speed-oriented yachts and later semi-displacement platforms. These vessels typically combine aggressive exterior styling, high cruising speeds, substantial luxury accommodation and extensive owner customization. Octopussy is the historic reference point for the category, while later projects developed the concept into larger and more comfortable superyachts.
Long-range superyachts · 1992
Steel Displacement Yachts
Steel displacement yachts form Heesen’s long-range and volume-oriented product family. They prioritize endurance, interior space, stability and comfortable cruising over maximum speed. The program began with Achiever in 1992 and has since expanded to include large custom vessels and fast-displacement-derived designs. Steel construction allows Heesen to offer larger layouts and extended cruising capabilities while retaining its engineering and luxury positioning.
High-efficiency motor yachts · 2013
Fast Displacement Yachts
Fast-displacement yachts are a central part of Heesen’s modern range. They use carefully optimized hull forms to deliver a balance between speed, fuel efficiency, range and onboard volume. The concept was highlighted by Galactica Star and later developed through yachts such as Galactica Super Nova and other platform-based projects. These yachts are intended for owners who want high performance without sacrificing long-range comfort.
Alternative-propulsion superyachts · 2017
Hybrid Yachts
Heesen’s hybrid yachts combine conventional diesel propulsion with electric or battery-supported operating modes to reduce noise, vibration and fuel consumption in selected conditions. Home, delivered in 2017, became the best-known early example. The company’s BlueNautech program extends this work into hull efficiency, alternative materials, energy savings, improved production methods and lower operational impact.
Bespoke yacht construction
Full Custom Superyachts
Full Custom projects begin with an owner’s requirements, an original concept or a blank-sheet design. Heesen coordinates naval architecture, engineering, exterior styling, interior design, construction and commissioning. The format is aimed at clients seeking a unique yacht rather than a modified production platform. Projects such as Cosmos and SkyFall demonstrate the yard’s ability to combine distinctive design briefs with demanding structural, propulsion and performance requirements.
Long-range explorer superyachts · 2019
Explorer Yachts
Heesen’s explorer concepts extend the brand beyond conventional high-performance and Mediterranean-oriented yachts. The Xventure collaboration with Winch Design explored robust long-range platforms with practical expedition layouts, enhanced autonomy and a stronger connection to remote cruising. The explorer direction has continued under the company’s broader strategy of developing different lifestyle and regional platforms.
Controversies
2022
Ownership and sanctions controversy
Heesen faced reputational and operational pressure because its then-owner Vagit Alekperov was placed on the United Kingdom’s sanctions list following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The company transferred ownership to an independent Dutch foundation in an effort to preserve operations and employment.
2021
Fatal workplace accident and safety conviction
A worker died in 2017 after welding in a confined area of a yacht under construction. In 2021, a Dutch court found Heesen responsible, citing inadequate safety measures and ventilation, and imposed a EUR 100,000 fine plus a conditional additional penalty.
Marketing campaigns
- 2022BlueNautech
Global
BlueNautech is Heesen’s sustainability and efficiency platform, covering hull optimization, alternative materials, energy-saving systems and more efficient production approaches.
Outcome. The platform made efficiency and environmental improvement a more explicit part of Heesen’s brand narrative and product development.
- 2021YachtTalk
Global · United Kingdom · United States · Monaco
Heesen developed YachtTalk as a content and relationship-marketing format featuring discussions about yacht design, ownership, brokerage, markets and life on board.
Outcome. The program supported direct engagement with prospective owners, brokers, designers and the wider superyacht community.
- 2019Xventure Explorer Concept
Global
Heesen collaborated with Winch Design on a range of explorer-yacht concepts intended to combine expedition capability with the styling and comfort expected of a luxury superyacht.
Outcome. The initiative broadened Heesen’s design language and supported its move into long-range explorer platforms.
- 2018Heesen 40th Anniversary
Global
Heesen used its fortieth anniversary to emphasize its Dutch heritage, performance history and record-setting engineering. The anniversary was linked to the announcement and promotion of Project Cosmos, an 80-metre aluminium yacht.
Outcome. The anniversary reinforced Heesen’s positioning as an innovative Dutch superyacht specialist and provided a platform for the Cosmos program.
Brand decisions
2025
Laurens Last acquires HeesenM&ABackground
After the foundation ownership period, Heesen sought a long-term private owner able to provide strategic direction and capital for further development.
Action taken
Dutch entrepreneur and investor Laurens Last acquired the shipyard in full.
Aftermath
The new ownership emphasized operational efficiency, global growth, advanced technology, faster delivery and a more client-oriented approach.
2024 revenue. EUR 209 million (Fiscal year 2024, reported in the April 2025 acquisition announcement)
2025
Appointment of Jeroen van der Meer as CEOleadership_changeBackground
The appointment followed Laurens Last’s acquisition and the shipyard’s stated intention to begin a new strategic phase.
Action taken
Jeroen van der Meer became CEO in September 2025, succeeding Niels Vaessen.
Aftermath
Heesen presented the change as part of a broader effort involving innovation, quality, sustainability and operational renewal.
2022
Transfer of ownership to an independent Dutch foundationStrategyBackground
Sanctions-related risks surrounding former owner Vagit Alekperov threatened to disrupt suppliers, transactions and the continuity of the Dutch shipyard.
Action taken
Heesen transferred the shares associated with Alekperov to an independent Dutch foundation.
Aftermath
The shipyard returned to Dutch ownership and stated that the arrangement was intended to protect employees, operations and the company’s future.
2017
Introduction of hybrid propulsion with HomeProduct launchBackground
The superyacht market was placing greater emphasis on quieter operation, fuel efficiency and lower environmental impact.
Action taken
Heesen delivered Home with a hybrid propulsion system offering multiple cruising modes.
Aftermath
The project became a reference point for Heesen’s subsequent work in hybrid systems and efficiency-focused yacht engineering.
1992
Entry into steel displacement yachtsStrategyBackground
Heesen was primarily associated with fast aluminium yachts but sought to serve owners who valued range, volume and extended cruising.
Action taken
The company launched Achiever, its first major steel displacement yacht.
Aftermath
Steel became a permanent part of Heesen’s portfolio and allowed the yard to compete across both performance and long-range luxury segments.
1988
Launch of OctopussyProduct launchBackground
Heesen had built a reputation for advanced aluminium boats but needed a project capable of establishing the yard internationally in the superyacht market.
Action taken
The shipyard built the 38-metre Octopussy as an exceptionally fast luxury motor yacht.
Aftermath
Octopussy exceeded 50 knots and became the company’s breakthrough project, defining Heesen’s performance-led brand identity.
Sources10 sources
- 1Heesen Yachts: Our Storyheesenyachts.com
- 2The Heesen Heritageheesenyachts.com
- 3Heesen Yachts official websiteheesenyachts.com
- 4Heesen Yachts Announces Acquisition by Dutch Entrepreneur Laurens Lastheesenyachts.com
- 5Heesen Yachts Appoints Jeroen van der Meer as New Chief Executive Officerheesenyachts.com
- 6Heesen under Dutch ownershipsuperyachtnews.com
- 7Jachtenbouwer Heesen krijgt boete en kritiek na dodelijk ongelukomroepbrabant.nl
- 8Heesen Yachts Wikipedia articleen.wikipedia.org
- 9Project Cosmos is announcedheesenyachts.com
- 10YachtTalkheesenyachts.com
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