The World Superyacht Awards: A Night of Recognition and Industry Celebration

The World Superyacht Awards by BOAT International, often referred to as the Oscars of the yachting industry, have returned to their birthplace of Venice for the 2024 ceremony.

Adding to the grandeur of the occasion is the venue itself, the Arsenale di Venezia, an exclusive setting for this year’s event. This awe-inspiring complex, steeped in history, was once a bustling shipyard in the 12th century. Its vast expanse, encompassing 48 hectares, served as the heart of Venetian naval power, churning out countless ships that secured the Republic’s maritime dominance.

This prestigious event brings together the crème de la crème of the superyacht world, honouring the exceptional craftsmanship, innovation, and design that define this elite industry. Among the contenders, Heesen Yachts is proud to be participating with four stunning nominations: the 33m Newal, the 55m Reliance, the 60m Ultra G, and the 67m Sparta.

Heesen has a long-standing history of excellence at the World Superyacht Awards, having secured several coveted Neptune trophies over the years. This year’s event witnessed a staggering 15 distinct categories, each teeming with no fewer than 60 distinguished nominees. The shipyard is again in the spotlight, with four remarkable vessels vying for recognition.

The 33m Newal, first delivered in 1988 was designed by Mulder Design and Alfa Marine Design, with interior by Murat Cengiz Architects, is nominated in the Rebuild Category. Following a 15-month refit by KRM Yacht Refit & Rebuild, the yacht is now ready to set sail once more with a new interior, exterior and a 3.6 metre extension. In addition, all electric infrastructure, piping systems and engine rooms saw a complete overhaul.

Reliance
The 55m Reliance, a masterpiece of naval architecture and design, with exterior by Omega Architects and interior by Luca Dini Design and Architecture, is nominated in the Displacement Motor Yachts 500GT to 999GT category. Heesen’s 55-metre class is an example of clever engineering and elegant design. The most remarkable statement is that Reliance heralds a decade-long legacy. This fully customisable series was designed in 2014 by Frank Laupman of Omega Architects to become the ultimate yachting platform. Each successive sister ship has been further optimised and then sculpted to a client’s individualised brief. Reliance is the latest and greatest iteration of the Heesen 55m Steel series. She is muscular enough to cross any sea yet nimble enough to nip into the finest Mediterranean port.

Ultra G
In the Semi-Displacement or Planning Motor Yachts 40m and Above category stands the 60m Ultra G, a testament to Heesen’s expertise in full-custom projects. Designed by Omega Architects designed with interiors by Harrison Eidsgaard, Heesen proved they can deliver one of the most unconventional designs of our times. A yacht that distilled the hydrodynamic, logistical, and engineering knowledge of the industry’s greatest minds without losing sight of the client’s superfast sportfishing brief.

Sparta
Finally, the 67m Sparta, a testament to the shipyard’s ability to translate owner desires into reality, is nominated in the Displacement Motor Yachts 1,000GT to 1,499GT category. Designed with a holistic approach, the British studio Winch Design is responsible for both the exterior and interior. The largest steel yacht ever built by the Dutch yard is a full custom where each feature — from the 6.5m infinity pool to the DNA helix staircase — is literally extraordinary.

The World Superyacht Awards are more than just a night of glitz and glamour; they represent a significant opportunity for the industry to come together. From superyacht owners and designers to brokers and industry peers, this event fosters a sense of community and shared passion for the world of luxury yachting. It’s a platform to celebrate the achievements of shipyards, designers, and individuals who push the boundaries of what’s possible on the water.

This event serves as a reminder of the collective effort that goes into creating these magnificent vessels, each one a testament to human ingenuity and craftsmanship.

Heesen is deeply honoured by the judges’ commendation for the 67m Sparta, a recognition of the dedication and talent that went into crafting this one-of-a-kind superyacht.

Written by Sara Gioanola.