Heesen delivers the first yacht of 2024 YN 20255, now named Iris Blue.
Heesen has successfully delivered the first yacht of the restyled 55-metre series after rigorous testing in the North Sea. Throughout the three-day sea trials, Iris Blue not only met all the required specifications but also underwent smooth and planned testing procedures. On the second day, the yacht faced challenging conditions with waves reaching up to 1.7 meters from the north to northwest, accompanied by westerly to north-westerly winds gusting up to 28 knots. Similar to its predecessors, Iris Blue demonstrated high responsiveness by promptly obeying steering commands. The incorporation of large rudders, coupled with a powerful steering unit, ensures swift reactions, complemented by the high pitch of the propellers. Overall, this combination instills great confidence in the captain, particularly when maneuvering in strong wind conditions.
Frank Laupman of Omega Architects, the original designer of this series, carried out the restyle of the exterior lines. “As much as we love our original design with the vertical windows, we felt it was time to make an evolutionary step,” says Frank. “We opted for a larger expanse of floor-to-ceiling glass, without mullions in the main saloon. Then, we took the opportunity to give a slightly more aggressive look to the profile by using continuous sheets of tinted glass. The horizontal lines stretch the optical length and balance the air draft. The result is beautiful: we retained the family look and feel but gave it an elegant touch.” The design revisitation lends the yacht a more assertive stance on the water.
The owner’s quarters now feature a veranda on the starboard side, which is a truly transformative innovation. This feature is something truly unique that fundamentally changes the space experience in the 78 sqm stateroom, which now also includes new walk-in wardrobes. The possibility to access an outdoor area in complete privacy is a wonderful addition to this space.
The layout has also been reconsidered and now features a larger sundeck with a bar around the whirlpool forward. On the main deck, the central atrium has been modernised, with a wider and revised main staircase, while there is an additional companionway from the wheelhouse deck up to the sun deck to ease crew access.
