A History Of Heesen

The company was founded in 1978 by Frans Heesen, previously employed in the aluminium industry. It began as a small operation building custom yachts from aluminium which allowed for faster and more efficient construction – and so Heesen Yachts became increasingly respected for their sleek, fast, and efficient vessels. Fast forward to today and Heesen Yachts is widely regarded as one of the most innovative and forward-thinking yacht builders in the world. The company has won numerous awards for its design and engineering and its yachts can be spotted in some of the world’s most exclusive marinas.

Bluenautech: A Comprehensive Sustainability Programme

Naturally, concern for the natural world is of prime importance to many purchasers and prospective customers planning on navigating the seas. As such, environmental responsibility is at the heart of Heesen’s operation. The shipyard has a six-pillar approach to sustainability, borne from a deep love for, and connection with, the ocean.

• One of the most innovative design elements is the Heesen Fast Displacement Hull Form (FDHF). Combining high speed with fuel efficiency, results in a yacht that is both fast and eco-friendly. The super lightweight aluminium FDHF design is up to 30% more fuel-efficient than traditional hull designs, reducing the carbon footprint of each yacht.
• Hybrid propulsion systems combine traditional diesel engines with electric motors, allowing the yacht to switch between power sources as needed. This not only reduces fuel consumption but also results in a quieter, smoother ride for passengers.
• With pleasure yachts spending most of their time at anchor, increasing generator power and HVAC efficiency is key. Heesen uses sustainable power generators and waste heat recovery to reduce total energy consumption.
• The environmental impact on ports and marinas is mitigated via smart waste management and electric-powered tenders.
• Recycled and alternative materials, such as sustainable woods, are used throughout the designs, both within and without.
• The build is aided by 3D printing, electrostatic low-emission paint spraying, waste reduction and recycling to significantly reduce environmental impact.

You Dream It, Heesen Builds It

The design process caters for ultra-bespoke builds, incorporating lavish and outlandish features as you dare imagine. A handcrafted model of the vessel is created before being stringently tested and analysed for safety and performance. The process is so in-depth and thorough, that the shipyard will only undertake a single personalised commission at a time. No matter the spec and personalisation, each vessel promises power, beauty and performance. And you get to choose your level of input; whether it be a few customisations, semi-custom, or a 100% built-to-spec vessel utterly unlike any other.

Series Yachts

These are those yachts within the speculation programme which are fully engineered and therefore available with shorter delivery times than the full-custom models. There are currently three in the pipeline, all of which sleep up to 12 guests. Project Jade goes live in the second quarter of 2024, with a length of 50 metres and a speed of 23 knots. Project Orion is set to be delivered at the start of 2025, also at a length of 50 metres and with a speed of 16.3 knots. Omega Architects and Cristiano Gatto Design have worked on the exteriors and interiors, respectively, of both. Project Venus is due for delivery in the second quarter of 2025. At 55 metres long, it can achieve 15.5 knots and has been designed by Omega Architects and Luca Dini Design & Architecture.

Past Portfolio

But what of the rest of the fleet? There are 60 yachts in total, which include some of the following notable builds.

Ocean Z: This 50-meter motor yacht offers a spacious interior by Reymond Langton Design Ltd. Accommodating up to 10 guests in 5 cabins, Ocean Z boasts a range of impressive amenities, including a beach club and jacuzzi.

Galactica Super Nova: This 70-meter motor yacht is one of Heesen Yachts’ largest and most impressive with an exterior profile that is both powerful and elegant. The interior, by Sinot Yacht Architecture & Design, is equally striking, making use of the finest materials and finishes.

Project Cosmos: A whopping 80 meters in length, Project Cosmos is the work of Winch Design, with a range of ultra-luxe innovative features, such as a glass-bottomed swimming pool and a helipad.

MY Lusine. A 60-metre, full-custom, steel FDHF motor yacht, MY Lusine features the eye-catching ‘bird’s wing’ motif to join the main, bridge and sun decks without interrupting the flow of the tinted windows. While able to reach 17.5 knots, the vessel maintains a noise and vibration output well below the required levels, even at full pelt.

A true innovator at the very top of the yachting industry, Heesen Yachts is pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with cutting-edge technologies and out-of-the-box design. As the world becomes increasingly focused on sustainability, the brand proves that both ocean-going luxury and ocean-loving eco-friendliness can exist in perfect harmony.

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A Founding Father

The story begins in 1992 when Dorus Wajer started building his own launches in his father’s shed, on the lakes near Amsterdam. From here, Wajer’s first creation, a 28-foot open-day boat entitled The Captain’s Launch, took to the water. And with this, Wajer Yachts was born, quickly gaining a reputation for quality and innovation. Expanding its product line to include larger and more luxurious yachts, the brand now offers an enticing range; from the entry-level Wajer 38 to the flagship Wajer 77. But while the company has seen a fast evolution and unfettered growth, it remains a family affair with Dries Wajer (son of Dorus) now at the helm, as MD of the company.

Handmade in Holland

The Netherlands has long been synonymous with seafaring and boatbuilding, so it’s appropriate that this should have been the birthplace of Wajer Yachts. Each boat is hand-built in the company’s state-of-the-art shipyards in Heeg, Lemmer and Heerenveen, Friesland, by 250 perfectionist craftspeople. Using the finest materials and the latest technology, the dedicated team produce vessels with distinctive design; from the sleek lines of the Wajer 38 to the bold styling of the Wajer 77, each yacht is a masterpiece of modern maritime architecture. Working alongside some of the world’s leading boat experts, such as Sinot Yacht Architecture & Design, Wajer ensures its yachts are both beautiful and functional. Every model is built to order onsite, with the ability to incorporate bespoke features.

Fulfilling a Need For Speed

Powered by high-performance engines, these yachts can reach impressive speeds while maintaining excellent fuel efficiency. Whether you’re cruising the Mediterranean or exploring the waters of the Caribbean, a Wajer yacht provides an exhilarating boating experience. But this is not at the expense of serenity or eco-cred. While the inbuilt Volvo Penta IPS system makes the vessels fast, they’re also quiet, with excellent knots per gallon ratio and lower emissions than many competitors. With an aerodynamic design, Wajer Yachts provide this combination of a faster ride and a sublime aesthetic, creating the illusion that the hull is slicing through the ocean — be it at rest or at play. And playtime in one of these is a whole lot of fun.

An Intuitive Sail

Novice sailors can rest easy when it comes to purchasing a Wajer Yacht as a first foray into the world of sailing. Each is filled with intuitive features to make the experience as effortless as possible. A deep-V hull design and supportive seating create a smooth ride for those unused to riding the waves. Docking is made easy with joystick control. Inflatable fenders can be deployed and retracted with the push of a button, and you can watch the anchor drop remotely, from a screen in the cockpit. Wajer has used technological innovation to take much of the hard work out of sailing, allowing you to sit back and enjoy the – spectacular – journey.

Service ‘Without a Worry’

Wajer’s team provides owners with all the support and guidance they need to make the most of their new purchase, be that training and maintenance, concierge services or on-board entertainment. Their Service ‘Without a worry’ ethos ensures every need is met, with representatives resident in France, Balearics, Mainland Spain and the United States, as well as on home turf. And ownership is not the only route to experiencing a Wajer on the waves. The company provides a charter service and fully organised day trips in Amsterdam, the Côte d’Azur & Ibiza — it’s an ideal way to try before you buy and dip your toe into this luxury world on water.

Awards and Accolades

This level of quality and innovation doesn’t go unnoticed. In 2018, the company was named “Best Dutch Yacht Builder” at the World Yachts Trophies awards ceremony in Cannes. And in 2019, the Wajer 55 won the prestigious “Motor Boat of the Year ” award at the London Boat Show. And the brand is a favourite among discerning sailors around the globe, appealing to new and veteran yachtspeople. The company takes a proactive approach to environmental responsibility too, incorporating sustainable materials and processes and energy-efficient systems into production methods.

The Flotilla

If this has whetted your appetite for some raw ocean power, what options are there for prospective customers? There are currently eight models in the fleet:

• Wajer 38 (ideal for day trips and weekend getaways with a spacious cockpit and a sunbed).
• Wajer 38 S (a sportier version of the Wajer 38 with a more streamlined design and powerful engines).
• Wajer 38 L (the uber-luxe sibling of the Wajer 38 with two cabins, a galley and a large living space).
• Wajer 44 (the newest addition to the Wajer fleet and fully connected according to the self-developed Smart Boating principle)
• Wajer 55 (with three cabins, living area and a fully equipped galley for longer cruises).
• Wajer 55 S (a sporty version of the Wajer 55 with a more powerful engine and a racier design).
• Wajer 55 HT (a hardtop version of the Wajer 55 with a retractable roof for open-air cruising and a full-beam master cabin).
• Wajer 77 (the flagship, the most silent in its class, sleeping nine, with a 400-nautical-mile range for longer trips).

You can find out more about this highly respected player on the superyacht stage and immerse further into the Wajer world, by visiting the company website.

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Sirreti members

But Sirreti should not be confused with booking platforms. Instead, it’s an association whose membership includes travel agents working with ultra-high-net-worth (plus $30 million) and very-high-net-worth (plus $5 million) clients; as well as concierge companies, celebrity managers, family offices, property owners, owner representatives, property managers and villa agencies.

Member benefits

Those joining the Sirreti fold receive access to the following:

• One-of-a-kind networking opportunities, with direct access to luxury travel agents, celebrity managers and family offices within the Sirreti Members’ portal
• Inclusion and representation in Sirreti’s presentations to luxury travel bookers in Los Angeles and New York
• Free attendance to a sponsored conference, planned for May 2024, with discussions, presentations and Q&A talks like shortstayweek.com
• Listing on sirreti.com and permission to use the Sirreti Logo for marketing/online to identify as a luxury rental industry organisation
• Inclusion in Sirreti’s monthly newsletter and partner publications, such as The Review
• Learning materials in the form of live and on-demand webinars, with top insider tips from industry experts
• The annual report, Sirreti Insights, by the company’s own data analyst, which looks at the patterns of wealthy travellers who book luxury private accommodations

Sirreti Insights

This industry first is currently being compiled using Sirreti’s own data analyst, a selection of graduate students, industry partners, Sirreti’s members and its company statistics. The only data and industry report on “luxury private accommodations” and its UHNW and VHNW guests, the inaugural report will be released in the fourth quarter of 2023. And it’s set to become an invaluable tool for anyone operating within this top tier of the travel sector.

Creating a dialogue for the industry

As part of Sirreti’s global impact, Wolf Worster has compiled an international council for founders and CEOs representing the world’s largest and most established luxury vacation rental firms (council members do not have to be Sirreti members). These include the founder at Le Collectionist, founder of WIMCO, the COO at OneFineStay and 18 others from across the globe. Formed with the goal of adopting and promoting industry guidelines and definitions, The Sirreti Council creates an unprecedented dialogue within the industry. This is achieved by facilitating and moderating discussions, as well as sharing Sirreti’s own considerable knowledge and track record of results.

Created with the intention of pioneering best practices, professional development and positive change, Sirretii works to promote those operating within the industry, strives to learn more about traveller behaviours and identifies trends early on. An undoubted leader in luxury travel, Sirreti’s level of engagement and fostering of international partnerships is both encouraging and enabling its members to thrive.

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The hassle-free little black book of ski

A modern take on luxury chalet booking, it aims to guide and inspire guests by taking away the stress and hassle of finding and booking a ski-chalet holiday. Operating in sought-after European destinations such as Courchevel 1850, Chamonix, Pragelato, Morzine, Val D’Isere, Verbier, Zermatt, Meribel, Crans Montana and Les Gets, The Chalet Edit covers an expansive territory to give clients a wide range of options. The portfolio lends itself to both personal and corporate stays, with properties sleeping up to 28 guests. The Chalet Edit is described by TTG Luxury as “The hassle-free little black book of ski” (December 2018) and by Tatler as being “A hand-picked collection of stunning chalets” (November 2018).

A female founder

The business was founded by mountain enthusiast and industry expert Anna Sampson. With over 17 years of experience in this field, Anna had already managed and grown several acclaimed chalet booking agencies, including Alpine Answers, Powder Byrne and Firefly Collection. Sampson is therefore (and thus far) somewhat of an anomaly in the luxury travel sector, where female founders are in the minority — something she, and The Chalet Edit, are helping to change. From its base in Fulham, London, and led by Anna, the travel company provides consultations and handcrafts holidays in the most magical locations.

Exclusive off-market properties

The carefully edited portfolio of 800 vetted chalets is combined with a whole host of ‘off-market properties’, alongside a complimentary travel concierge service with clients’ needs at the forefront of every booking. As each has been personally visited by a specialist, The Chalet Edit is able to offer personalised recommendations, with a thorough and first-hand knowledge of what will work best for your group and a commitment to achieving the best possible price.

Ultra-luxe amenities

The collection includes spectacular properties with features such as hot tubs, private cinemas, steam rooms, infinity swimming pools, saunas, massage rooms and ski-in-ski-out facilities, all catering to your specific needs and desires — one even has its own Bamford Spa with a therapist on hand to help guests relax and ease into the break.

Pre-arrival

Planning the finer details of an overseas trip with a large number of people and limited on-the-ground knowledge can prove challenging and time-consuming. But this is where Anna and her dedicated team save the day, with a wealth of experience, impartial knowledge and an in-depth understanding of the idiosyncrasies involved in high-end travel. Some of the chalets are fully staffed as standard; with others, there’s the option of opting for specific services, such as a private butler, an in-resort driver or a personal chef on hand to create Michelin-level meals — either for the duration, or set periods. It’s all about designing the ideal escape for the individuals and groups in question, rather than a one size fits all approach.

Your wish is The Chalet Edit’s command…

And the bespoke level of service continues long after securing your perfect chalet. The concierge arranges everything, be it child care, equipment hire with in-chalet fittings, ski passes (this is a no queue zone), lessons and trusted transfers; they recommend the best après ski spots; and programmed activities to excite you and your guests, such as husky sledging, heli-skiing, exhilarating night sledging, unique spa treatments, one to one yoga sessions and romantic picnics on the piste. If you wish to arrive by a private or shared jet, The Chalet Edit’s team makes it happen, so that every aspect of your trip, from start to finish, joins together seamlessly.

Luxury Travel Agency of the Year

This approach is certainly attracting recognition, both in client reviews and official accolades. In July 2022 The Chalet & Villa Edit was awarded the title of ‘Luxury Travel Agency of the Year’ in the London and the South East of England Prestige Awards. Selected by a panel of business leaders, the Prestige Awards acknowledges small and independent businesses that have proven to be the best in their market over the past 12 months and consistently offer excellence in service and product. The brand was also nominated Best Ski & Winter Sports Holiday Company in the British Travel Awards 2022.

Curating the ultimate ski holiday experience

Anna Sampson, Founder of The Chalet Edit & Villa Edit comments “I couldn’t be prouder of the achievements of the team and company over the last few years, which have been some of the trickiest the travel industry has ever faced. I have been in the travel industry for 17 years, but owning my own travel business has always been my goal. This is the recognition that I dreamed of when starting the business, and truly reflects the efforts and dedication of our small team. The personal service starts right from the planning through to returning home with first-hand knowledge of each destination. A holiday with The Chalet Edit is so much more than simply staying in a beautiful chalet – we ensure every holiday is completely tailor-made from transfers to childcare, events and parties. It is this attention to detail that ensures The Chalet Edit is the ultimate ski holiday experience.”

The beautiful hand-picked portfolio of properties, the dedicated team and the entirely bespoke nature of everything The Chalet Edit does are what truly sets this brand apart from other luxury chalet agencies. And it continues to go from strength to strength, with a promise to redefine luxury chalet booking

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The business operates around four core principles; safety, service, access and exclusives – events tailored to Owners’ individual interests. It’s also an innovator in sustainability, committed to reducing NetJets’ environmental footprint where it has been carbon neutral in Europe since 2012. 

Read on to discover the many benefits of this premium service. 

Safety

Safety comes first at NetJets, for Owners and employees alike. And it’s an aspect that the business invests in heavily, with over $80 million per year dedicated to the continuous development and training of their team. This is more than most airlines spend on pilots’ salaries alone. 

Expertise is key and although pilots and flight attendants are more than qualified to fly a range of aircraft, the NetJets ethos is that they commit to flying only on one. This means that pilots develop concentrated expertise on only one set of procedures and reactions to their chosen aircraft. This ensures that, especially in an emergency, responses are second nature. The company’s uncompromising commitment to aviation safety is evident in all facets of the business and a key differentiator that sets it apart.

Pilots must complete a minimum of 24 hours’ simulator per year. This is in contrast to the industry average of 16 hours. Additionally, NetJets’ pilots fly with the support of top weather and slot experts who work diligently behind the scenes. Owners can therefore be confident that every flight route has been meticulously planned to be as safe as possible.

NetJets is also the only private aviation operator to monitor crew member alertness, analysing circadian rhythms, sleep and travel patterns to prevent the risks associated with fatigue. As a result, your team is always fully fit to fly. 

Service

NetJets Owners can expect an international client service experience that is second to none. A group of language experts care for the team and ensure clients from across the globe are well looked after. Meetings may overrun, business matters may require immediate face to face attention – or the ski conditions in a favourite resort may be unmissable! Whatever the reason or purpose, NetJets flights run to the Owners schedule. Owners can easily request a flight by emailing their Owner Services Team, by calling their personalised phone number, or by using the NetJets mobile app. Every aspect of a flight is planned, coordinated, and confirmed by a dedicated team who is available 24/7.

The support of a responsive and professional behind the scenes team makes everything run seamlessly. A super example of NetJets’ ability to go above and beyond, was an instance in which an Owner had broken his leg while on land during a trip away.  This meant he was in a cast for the return journey, so the team lowered cabin pressure to ensure his inflight experience was as comfortable as possible. 

And the whole family is welcome on these supremely comfortable aircraft. Activities for children, treats for pets, tailored menus for gourmands mid-air dining and celebration surprises are all part of the inflight experience. 

Access

Demand for private aviation has shown a dramatic increase over recent years, with NetJets welcoming new Owners at more than a 350% increase in 2020. To satisfy this increasing demand, whilst also delivering exceptional customer service and flexible access, NetJets is expanding the fleet. More than 50 new aircraft are set to join the global fleet by the end of 2021, with the anticipated recruitment of an additional 300 pilots.

An industry-leading, multi-tiered cleaning and disinfecting programme is also implemented in each and every aircraft after use, adding peace of mind for those wary at the prospect of travelling in the current climate. 

Sustainability

Pioneers in sustainable aviation, NetJets is the first airline to purchase Air BP’s new certified sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), ISCC PLUS. SAF is made from recycled sustainable feedstocks such as used cooking oil and household waste. Using this reduces the lifecycle of airline carbon emissions by 80% compared to standard aviation fuel. NetJets will purchase at least 10 million gallons of SAF each year from the refinery, which is scheduled to begin production in 2025. 

NetJets is also one of the first companies in private aviation to launch an extensive sustainability programme in 2008 called Blue Skies, which offers Owners a way to seamlessly purchase the equivalent amount of carbon credits to ensure their flight activity is carbon neutral. Through this global programme, NetJets partner with ClimateCare to directly support carbon projects that align to United Nations Sustainability Development Goals.

Another example of the brand’s commitment to sustainable aviation is its policy that the aircraft must remain in its arrival destination until required (by one of its Owners) to fly to another destination. The continuous process of measuring, reducing and offsetting the business’ carbon omission is paramount and extends beyond the flights, to all operational activity. 

Exclusive Events

The benefits extended to Owners goes much farther than getting from A to B in ultimate comfort and convenience. The brand creates exclusive Owner’s events, each of which is based on the passions and interests of clients. Unforgettable experiences organised by NetJets have included:

• A one-on-one tennis match with Roger Federer (himself a NetJets Owner)
• Hospitality on a stunning luxury 17th-floor terrace overlooking the Monaco Grand Prix
• Private auctions at the historic London based antique house, Christie’s
• Preview days at international art fairs such as Art Basel
• Gastronomic dinners at elite venues 
• Private concerts with bestselling music artists such as Madonna, Placido Domingo, Andrea Bocelli and Kylie Minogue
• Complimentary stays in exotic five-star resorts

The team’s partners can arrange tailored travel experiences too, taking care of your itinerary alongside your flights. 

The Fleet

Shared ownership, a lease programme and an anytime access option provide complete flexibility to suit the client’s needs. And as the fleet is made of 760+ aircraft positioned around the world, a plane can be available to you with as little as 10 hours’ notice. Choose from light jets carrying up to seven passengers, mid-size jets carrying up to eight passengers, super mid-size jets carrying up to nine passengers, large jets carrying up to ten passengers and long-range jets carrying up to 13. 

NetJets caters for unique travel needs, with incredible service standards, high levels of support, rigorous standards and a genuine interest in its Owners. It’s no wonder then, that over a third of NetJets’ clients have continued to travel with the brand for over a decade.

www.netjets.com

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