Bijin: A Heesen Legacy Reborn

In a celebration of enduring design and thoughtful evolution, Heesen Yachts recently gathered at the Yacht Club de Monaco for the renaming ceremony of the superyacht, now christened MY Bijin. Formerly the multi-award-winning Sibelle, this 50-metre, full-custom, all-aluminium Fast Displacement Hull Form (FDHF) yacht has embarked on a new chapter, showcasing both Heesen craftsmanship and the astute vision of her experienced Owners. The ceremony, a blend of maritime tradition and modern glamour, was also graced by Laurens Last, the new owner of the shipyard.

Bijin, a Japanese term meaning ‘beautiful woman,’ is an apt name for a yacht that has undergone such a transformation. Sibelle was already a design and engineering success, recognised at the 2016 World Superyacht Awards. Her original design was so effective that it inspired a lineage of 50-metre Heesen yachts. This inherent quality provided a strong foundation for the Owners’ ambitious refit.

The Owners’ decision to invest in such a comprehensive refit highlights their confidence in Heesen’s build quality. This particular yacht was the third Heesen for her original owner, privately used and meticulously maintained, ensuring she remained in pristine condition. This provenance meant the new Owners had an excellent base, allowing their investment to be channelled into intelligent enhancements.

The nine-month refit, executed at Monaco Marine, has elevated Bijin. The Owners, with their clear understanding of yachting, approached the project with a discerning eye. They respected the yacht’s original lines, choosing to intelligently adapt her to their lifestyle and aesthetic.

The interior transformation features a Japandi-inspired look, conceived by Hot Lab and realised by LIST. This design combines Japanese minimalism with Scandinavian warmth, creating a serene atmosphere. Beyond the interiors, Bijin now boasts a new livery in a crisp white Matterhorn colour, lending her a fresh appeal while retaining her elegance.

It is a reason of pride to see the evident care in Bijin’s refit. The thoughtful expenditure, the craftsmanship, and the Owners’ dedication underscore how intelligent investment in a quality yacht can enhance its value and create a bespoke masterpiece. This personalised attention truly sets Heesen owners apart.

At Heesen, the passion for engineering and craftsmanship is paramount. We build superyachts for clients whose dreams are at the heart of every project, from concept to delivery and throughout the yacht’s life. The story of Bijin attests to the longevity and enduring value of a Heesen yacht. These vessels are built to last, offering a superb cruising experience and a sound, enduring investment.

Honouring Maritime Traditions

The renaming ceremony itself was steeped in fascinating nautical tradition. For centuries, sailors have performed such rituals to ensure safe passage under a new name, believing that every vessel’s name is recorded in the ‘Ledger of the Deep’, held by Neptune or Poseidon himself. Changing a name without proper ceremony is thought to anger these sea gods. To perform a successful renaming, tradition dictates a ‘De-Naming Ceremony’ to expunge the old name. Following this, a libation — typically champagne — is offered to the sea gods from a silver goblet, honouring their dominion and seeking their blessing for the new name. The Owners honoured this tradition in spectacular fashion, opening the champagne magnum with a La Belle Classe sabre kindly offered by the Yacht Club de Monaco’s Secretary General, Bernard d’Alessandri.

With the old name retired and Bijin duly blessed, glasses were raised in a toast. To the Owners, for their vision and hard work; to Bijin, for many safe voyages ahead; and to the enduring spirit of yachting—a spirit embodied by this Heesen yacht.

Considering the remarkable transformation of Bijin, we invite you to explore the possibilities for your own bespoke superyacht journey with Heesen. Discover how our commitment to enduring quality and custom craftsmanship can bring your vision to life.

Words by Sara Gioanola