Project Cosmos, now renamed Galactica, is the largest and fastest all-aluminium superyacht in the world, and becomes the current flagship of renowned builder Heesen Yachts. The 80m superyacht has a gross tonnage of 1,700GT and a mighty top speed of almost 30 knots.

The complex build of this record-setting precision aluminium superyacht is a testament to the in-house expertise and craftsmanship at Heesen Yachts. The construction of the shipyard’s largest ever superyacht at 80-metres is a signal of intent to take on more daring project and rise to the challenges of owners.

The challenge is one which has been executed masterfully by the engineers and craftspeople at Heesen, with tireless work throughout the pandemic from Heesen’s own in-house teams and loyal subcontractors to ensure this yacht was launched on schedule.

The size of this new Heesen flagship makes her top speed of 30 knots all the more impressive. The result was achieved through the design of a lightweight and low-drag hull, honed to perfection by Heesen’s naval architects on an iteration of the Fast Displacement Hull Form devised by van Oossanen.

One of the greatest challenges in the build was to ensure the yacht had sufficient longitudinal strength. Heesen’s engineers designed and patented the Backbone – an intricate, full-length structural reinforcement system – to make this possible.

Galactica is powered by a traditional yet highly refined diesel propulsion, with four engines, two gearboxes, variable-pitch propellers and ultra-innovative Promas rudders.

“Today, we are celebrating the launch of a unique yacht,” said Heesen CEO Arthur Brouwer. “Unique not only for our shipyard, as she is the largest we have ever taken on and represents the pinnacle of our achievements to date. Cosmos is also unique in the industry - the largest and fastest aluminium yacht in her class ever built.”

Iconic British studio Winch Design was selected to craft the elegant exterior of Galactica, which features clean lines, a sporty silhouette and an extensive use of glass to create a timeless, dynamic profile.

“The Winch vision for Cosmos was to retain Heesen’s sporty DNA but blend it with an innovative, futuristic spin,” explains Jim Dixon, Director of Yachts and Aviation at Winch Design. “Curved glass forms smooth, sculpted shapes, creating a feeling of slick, contemporary charm.”

James Russell, Yacht Exteriors Associate at Winch, added that “the brief stressed that she had to have a strong and unique signature whilst retaining the Heesen DNA that we all know and love. The emphasis was on creating a fast looking yacht that sits elegantly on the water, a feat that has been cleverly achieved through the use of sculptural, curved forms and perfectly balanced proportions.”

The calming and elegant interior design was penned by Sinot Yacht Design and Architecture, with a neutral palette featuring splashes of a range of blue hues to create a welcoming environment.

The expansive beach club is the main attraction and relaxation area onboard Galactica, with side and stern platforms, and the backlit onyx bar is the focal point of the beach club.

Following the celebration of her launch, Galactica will remain at Heesen for commissioning before undergoing intense sea trials in the North Sea in February. The 80m superyacht will be delivered to her owners in April 2022.

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