Serena hits the water
Sold and project-managed by Arcon Yachts Monaco, Serena began construction in the Spring of 2022. The experienced serial yacht owners joined early enough to collaborate closely with Heesen engineers and Luca Dini's Design and Architecture team to personalise the project. Their goal was to create a homely and welcoming interior that would be comfortable for long periods on board. Special attention was paid to the height of seating arrangements, the comfort of the couches, and the practicality of luxurious yet user-friendly materials. Every area of the yacht was designed for optimal relaxation.
Arcon's team of experts optimised the layout within the existing boundaries, emphasising the role of the bars on the main deck and skylounge. The atrium was redesigned to leave a lasting impression on guests. Adorned with John Pomp's hand-blown glass and hand-sculpted metal light fixtures, the atrium spans three decks and creates a surreal, magical atmosphere. Serena's design is driven by Alvar Aalto's principle: "Beauty is the harmony of purpose and form." The interior features light woods in velvet finishes, smoked eucalyptus, bronze metal accents, soft fabrics, and leather for a homely feel. Amazonite marble inlays add elegant, colourful accents. Chevron-patterned wood panels enhance the vertical surfaces in the atrium and lobbies, contributing to a spacious and tailored atmosphere.
The main saloon is divided into three thoughtfully designed areas. A fully equipped bronze-finished bar near the sliding doors serves both the main deck aft terrace and the lounge area, ensuring a seamless indoor-outdoor transition ideal for formal dining. The Sky Lounge, the hub of indoor social life and entertainment, features a hammered bronze bar, a games table customised to fit its purpose, and comfortable seating for watching movies or reading books.
The beach club, illuminated by natural light through two glass portholes, is decorated to resemble a water-side salotto. The sauna has been upgraded with a larger glass door and elegant wood finishes. The 110sqm sun deck offers flexible furniture arrangements for various occasions, enhancing hospitality options. A forward seating area provides a perfect spot to enjoy the views and the breeze while cruising.
Serena can accommodate 12 guests in five cabins. The owners' quarters are located on the main deck forward and feature a lounge and office space, a generous full-beam cabin with a veranda, two large 'his and hers' walk-in closets, and a grand bathroom. The lower deck houses four guest staterooms: two doubles with beds placed athwartship for optimal walking space and two twins with additional Pullman beds. Each cabin boasts a private en-suite bathroom with unique marble in different colours for each cabin. The bridge deck includes a gym that can be easily retrofitted into a cabin if needed.
The tender and toys are conveniently stored on the main deck forward, including a state-of-the-art tender and jet skis that the crew can easily lift into the water away from the guests.
Heesen Project Manager Eric Molegraaf praised the owners' clear vision and knowledge of life at sea. "Thanks to the owner's clear ideas on the yacht's intended use, their knowledge of life at sea, and their awareness of their needs made decision-making easy and serene. Arcon's team is highly experienced, having worked on several complex projects with our shipyard, ensuring a seamless experience for clients and the shipyard. Silvia Margutti of Luca Dini Design and Architecture understands our engineering and construction methods and translates the client's wishes into beautiful designs. Serena is one of the most serene yachts we have ever built."
Richard Kaye of Arcon Yachts Monaco added "Following the successful delivery of Reliance in 2023, Serena marks the second yacht in Heesen’s 55 class that we have had the pleasure to sell and project manage. We are delighted to continue our close partnership with Heesen Yachts, fellow experts in the superyacht industry. The beauty of Serena’s design is that she is small enough to enter all the ports in the Med and large enough to offer the owners ample space to enjoy life at sea. The client's early involvement allowed us to tailor the yacht to their lifestyle, adding unique design elements and technical improvements. Serena is special within the boundaries of building a superyacht on a proven platform, offering a personal touch while benefiting from a reliable base."
The launch of Serena marks a significant achievement in yacht design and construction, showcasing collaboration, innovation, and personalised luxury. The yacht is set to offer its owners and guests an unparalleled experience at sea.