Heesen Yachts has spent four decades refining the art of building fast, lightweight superyachts from its base in Oss, in the Netherlands. The yard’s steel hull and aluminium superstructure combination produces yachts that cruise comfortably at 14 to 17 knots, covering more ground between anchorages than traditional displacement hulls allow. In Antigua and Barbuda, where the passage from Falmouth Harbour to Barbuda covers 40 nautical miles, a Heesen’s speed becomes a genuine asset. Six Heesen yachts are available across this cruising ground, typically ranging from 37 to 55 metres, each carrying a crew of seven to twelve and fitted with watertoy packages, spa equipment, and beach club facilities. Interior designers of international standing fit out most Heesens, giving each a distinct aesthetic alongside its shared engineering foundation. Weekly rates run from approximately 60,000 to 130,000 euros, with the advance provisioning allowance adding around 30 percent for fuel, food, berthing, and drinks. The higher cruising speed means fuel costs can be meaningful at full throttle; most guests cruise at 12 to 14 knots to balance performance against the pleasures of the anchorage. Book well ahead for the December to April season. From English Harbour a Heesen reaches Barbuda in under two hours, leaving a full afternoon on the Pink Sand Beach and Codrington Lagoon. Nonsuch Bay, the Dog Islands, and Green Island all sit within easy range.
