From speculative build to standout charter yacht, the 55m Reliance showcases Heesen’s precision engineering and Luca Dini’s refined interiors.
Heesen Yachts has officially delivered the 55-metre motor yacht Reliance, formerly known as Project Gemini, marking the latest milestone in the Dutch builder’s acclaimed 55 Steel series. Built on speculation and sold midway through construction, Reliance now joins the global charter fleet under the management of West Nautical.
Launched from the Oss shipyard, the steel-hulled superyacht underwent rigorous sea trials in the unpredictable waters of the North Sea before completing handover in close coordination with Dutch maritime authorities. Heesen’s meticulous attention to regulatory compliance and engineering detail is once again on full display—proof of the shipyard’s consistently high standards.
Reliance was crafted in partnership with long-time exterior design collaborator Omega Architects. Her distinctive shark-grey hull and muscular silhouette are complemented by a signature “shark tooth” detail on the forward superstructure—a nod to her power and poise. This aggressive styling is underpinned by technical strength: a steel hull, aluminium superstructure, and twin MTU 8V 4000 M63 diesel engines deliver a top speed of 15.5 knots and a transatlantic range of 4,500 nautical miles at 13 knots.
Inside, Reliance marks the first Heesen project to feature interiors by Italian designer Luca Dini. The result is a warm, contemporary scheme that balances understated luxury with Mediterranean flair. The main deck owner’s apartment spans an expansive 82 square metres, with customisations including an opening window and a redesigned en suite layout. Guest accommodations include a VIP suite on the bridge deck and four further guest cabins—two doubles, two twins—on the lower deck.
A notable design enhancement comes via the transom windows, which draw natural light into the beach club—a subtle but meaningful detail that elevates the onboard experience. With space for 12 guests and an experienced crew, Reliance is clearly built with charter in mind, blending comfort with long-range capability.
Originally sold 15 mon
ths into her build, thanks to Arcon Yachts Monaco, Reliance is a compelling example of how speculative construction can still result in bespoke ownership. She follows in the wake of Vida and Laurentia, reinforcing the 55-metre series as a proven platform for Heesen’s brand of precise, performance-led luxury.
With her delivery complete and charter-ready, Reliance represents more than a new yacht on the water—she’s a testament to Heesen’s ability to combine technical mastery with contemporary elegance.
