A Testament to Enduring Excellence: The Timeless Journey of YN 11030, Now VERSE

At Heesen, we often speak of yachts built to last forever. It’s more than a motto; it’s the bedrock of our philosophy, a commitment to Dutch quality that ensures our vessels not only endure but also retain their value and allure through the passage of time. The remarkable story of YN 11030, now sailing as the magnificent VERSE, beautifully illustrates this enduring promise.

The journey of this exceptional 30.66-metre motor yacht is a narrative we at Heesen are particularly proud of. It speaks volumes about the trust placed in our name when her second owner acquired her sight unseen, a decision driven solely by the reputation of Heesen and the unique provenance of the vessel – originally built by our founder, Frans Heesen, for a dear friend. This intrinsic faith in our craftsmanship is something we deeply value.

Following her acquisition, the yacht underwent a significant refit and became VERSE. This process was overseen by an acclaimed designer who is a close friend of the owner. The aim was to sensitively enhance her inherent qualities, transforming her into a truly one-of-a-kind masterpiece that respectfully built upon her Heesen DNA. This dedication to personalised excellence is a hallmark of the yachts that leave our Oss shipyard.

Adding to her distinction is the fact that a similar model to YN11030 will not be replicated by Heesen. This decision, driven by various factors, lends an extra layer of exclusivity to VERSE, making her a rare and coveted example of our evolving design language.

The lineage of YN11030 can be traced back to two Heesen sisterships, including the notable ‘Bacino’. In the late 1990s, Frank Laupman of Omega Architects and the Heesen team embarked on a journey of thoughtful evolution. The original 28.5-metre design was expertly extended to 30.66 metres. This was not merely about adding length; our naval architects and designers meticulously harmonised her lines, particularly at the stern and across the platform, and refined the main deck overhang to create a profile of enhanced elegance and grace for what would eventually become VERSE.

Frank Laupman comments: “These modifications yielded significant practical advantages. The upper deck aft was cleverly reconfigured to provide ample space for both a tender and an additional jet-ski, complemented by the integration of a more substantial mast that perfectly balanced her enhanced proportions.”

One of the most inspired transformations was the redesign of the forward superstructure. By innovatively removing the traditional walkarounds to the foredeck, we created a wide-body superstructure. This featured distinctive vertical forward windows and an elliptical top view, which beautifully complemented the original character of the wheelhouse. Internally, this allowed for a more generously appointed owner’s suite, a key feature of VERSE’s enhanced comfort.

On the lower deck, the symmetrical layout with its comfortable double and twin cabins was largely retained, a nod to the well-conceived original plan. However, the design team ingeniously relocated the crew access to the side, a subtle change that yielded more space for an improved lower deck galley. Furthermore, the crew’s access and emergency exit to the foredeck were thoughtfully integrated via the bosun’s locker, which also cleverly incorporated two crew seats.

The result of these meticulous enhancements is what we proudly recognise as a truly complete superyacht, an evolution that further refined the inherent qualities of the original ‘Bacino’ design, culminating in the exceptional vessel now known as VERSE.

Today, VERSE is gracing the waters of Dubai and the UAE, providing immense enjoyment to her owner. Her continued impeccable performance is a living embodiment of Heesen’s enduring commitment to crafting yachts that stand the test of time. She is a shining example of how Heesen’s Dutch quality not only lasts but also cultivates a legacy of value and unparalleled yachting pleasure for generations to come. We are immensely proud to see VERSE thrive.

Written by Sara Gioanola