[dropcap]H[/dropcap]eesen ishas announced the launch of YN 18650 Project Boreas, a 50-metre full-aluminium motor yacht just below the 500GT threshold. Her construction was begun on speculation and is based on the design and engineering platform of Nova Plus, offering fast yet very efficient performance thanks to her slippery Fast Displacement Hull Form which has a draft of just 2.15 metres.
Frank Laupman of Omega Architects is responsible for the contemporary exterior design, while Mark Whiteley worked closely with the experienced Owner to create an elegant yet warm interior design.
As the owner stepped into the project one year into construction, he had a high degree of freedom in customising his new yacht to reflect his taste and lifestyle. Project Boreas is a brilliant illustration of how a discerning client can personalise the pre-engineered design platform of a hull already in construction, considerably shortening the delivery time.
The owner infused his personal touch in many details to increase the connection with the outdoors. For example, the smaller overhangs of the superstructure allow plenty of natural light into the interior. Glass panels with integrated blinds have been incorporated in the roof of the sundeck to allow more light on this area. An Isinglass (clear vinyl) screen completely protects the sundeck from the wind without impeding the views. Large openable windows in the sky lounge allow plenty of fresh air indoors and are controllable remotely. In addition to the gym located on the lower deck, the owner and his guests can enjoy exercising on the fixed swim platform where two Technogym running machines are rigged on each side of a wide staircase that leads to the main deck aft.
Twelve guests sleep in six cabins. The Owner’s stateroom is located forward on the main deck. On the lower deck, five suites accommodate the remaining guests.
The contemporary profile of the yacht is emphasised by the colour scheme. Both hull and superstructure sport a custom metallic Mountain Grey by Awlgrip, which elegantly matches with the colour of the Owner’s car. Metallic paint application is a complex and exacting procedure, and such was the care and attention paid to creating the ultimate finish that the complete process took 10 months.
Powered by twin MTU 12V 2000 M72 engines (rated at 1,080kW each), Project Boreas will reach a top speed of nearly 20 knots. At 12 knots she will have a transatlantic range of 3,750 nautical miles and a frugal fuel consumption of approximately 98 litres an hour (excluding generators) – remarkable for a 50-metre yacht of 499GT displacing 320 tons.
Project Boreas will remain at the shipyard for commissioning and will then depart to Hellevoetsluis for the sea trials. She will be delivered to her Owners in August 2019.
