Heesen Launch 40m "Galatea"

Heesen Yachts has announced the launch of its first 40m (132ft) "sportster", christened Galatea.

On January 17th, during a private ceremony at the shipyard facility in Oss, YN 15640, the first 40m Heesen "sportster", was launched and christened M/Y Galatea. She has advanced aluminium hull technology, powerful performance and beautiful interior design. Galatea has the perfect balance of comfort and power, she may have marble bathrooms but she's still capable of an astonishing speed of 27.5 kts.

She has been built for private use, with a requirement that the sun deck had maximum space for relaxing and dining. Her open flybridge layout gives a huge 85sqm of deck space that includes a helm station and a shaded dining area that is protected even underway by glass side panels. Bespoke teak furniture, including a built in teppanyaki grill, completes the upper deck. Inside, the 10m long saloon includes a large square lounge and a dining area aft adjacent to full height glazed doors. With the doors open, guests can dine inside while enjoying fresh air and panoramic views. Ten guests can sleep in five cabins that include a full beam main deck master, two full beam VIP doubles and two twin cabins on the lower deck, all of which have marble ensuite bathrooms.

Frank Laupman of Omega Architects has created an interior design that has a distinctive personality. Contrasting woods, simple clean lines, marquetry and glass detailing create an atmosphere of calm, contemporary elegance.

Galatea will be put through sea trials in the North Sea and be delivered to her owners at the end of March 2014.