Heesen Yachts has delivered Santosha, the first in its new 57-metre aluminium series and a vessel that brings together contemporary style, efficient engineering, and a growing emphasis on sustainability.
Launched under the project name Akira, Santosha is built on Heesen’s Fast Displacement Hull Form, developed by Van Oossanen Naval Architects. The all-aluminium construction keeps weight to a minimum, enabling a top speed of 22 knots (25mph) and a transatlantic cruising range of 3,900 nautical miles (4,490 miles) at 13 knots (15mph). With a shallow draft of 2.3 metres, she’s also well-suited to navigating coastal regions and shallow-water destinations like the Bahamas.
Propulsion comes from a pair of MTU 4000 M65L engines, with each 16-cylinder unit producing 2,560kW (around 3,480hp). Meeting IMO Tier III emissions standards, the engines significantly cut nitrogen oxide emissions, allowing Santosha to operate within current and future emission-controlled zones. Supporting systems include a ZF-Marine 125kW electric bowthruster for precise harbour manoeuvres, and twin 175kW Zenoro generators that provide onboard electrical power, ensuring all hotel functions operate smoothly while at sea or at anchor.
The exterior was designed by Omega Architects and stands out with a distinctive concave stern, curved overhangs, and a slightly angled bow that adds to the yacht’s sense of length. A standout design detail is the curved arch connecting the superstructure, a nod to designer Frank Laupman’s vision of creating something recognisably different on arrival in Port Hercules.
Inside, the layout has been created by British studio Harrison Eidsgaard in close collaboration with the owners. The interiors use sustainable materials, including FSC-certified wood flooring from Hakwood, carbon-neutral Dekton porcelain surfaces, synthetic art silk carpets that can be recycled, and faux leather made without PVC. These are combined with more traditional high-end materials, metallic detailing and a calm, modern palette.
Accommodation on Santosha includes a full-beam owner’s suite on the main deck, with a king-size bed facing large windows offering uninterrupted ocean views. The adjoining marble-clad bathroom features bespoke white-on-white bas-relief artwork from London’s DKT Studio, incorporating a snake motif chosen by the owners.
Five additional guest cabins, including a VIP suite, bring the total guest capacity to 12, supported by up to 13 crew.
Guest spaces include a 106-square-metre sun deck with Jacuzzi, dining area and bar under a streamlined hardtop, and a 66-square-metre aft terrace with a second outdoor dining area. The beach club, located at the stern, includes a gym with direct access to the water and a large 28.8-square-metre swim platform. Forward, two Ribeye tenders are stored on deck and launched by a multifunctional crane that also doubles as a foremast.
While Heesen hasn’t disclosed a price for Santosha, yachts of this size and specification typically command values in the region of £45–60 million, depending on final outfitting and customisation.
- Andersen brings English Heritage design to the domestic EV charger - 20 July 2026
- Glen Moray Heritage whisky range: Why age is only part of the story - 19 July 2026
- Volvo ES90 Plus review: Silence is golden - 7 May 2026