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On Board 49m M/Y Ocean Z with Capt. Billy Lockhart

Claire Griffiths is  Dockwalk ’s contributing editor in the Mediterranean. She fled to the sunny south of France from Edinburgh, Scotland, UK. Claire has a background in journalism for national and regional UK press and a career in political and corporate PR prior to that. Claire’s hobbies include eating, sleeping and dancing at inopportune times. She tries to avoid sheer drops and Olympic bobsled runs. Email Claire at [email protected]

Capt. Billy Lockhart has always loved pressing buttons and messing around on boats. Throw his extrovert personality into the mix, and he was born to be a yacht captain. He began his career running the dive department on cruise ships, where he also met his wife, the casino bank manager on board.

“Cruise ships go to all the same places as the superyachts, and my wife and I watched the yacht crew go by and we said to ourselves, ‘Now that is what we should be doing!’” So on December 5, 2000, they drove from Miami to Fort Lauderdale and dockwalked. “I had enough sea time to do my 100-ton license and my wife started out as a stew,” Lockhart says.

Lockhart’s first captain position was for the owners of NASCAR, and he stayed 15 years. “All of our boats were called M/Y Finish Line . We went through a dozen different boats and the last one we built from scratch at Trinity,” he says. “In 2014, we flew to Amsterdam for the World Superyacht Awards and won our category.”

This year, M/Y Ocean Z was a finalist in the World Superyacht Awards. This steel-hulled, full-displacement, true bluewater superyacht was delivered in May 2022. “ Ocean Z is a very interesting boat because it was built on spec,” Lockhart says. “We made the contract rather late, so it was a marathon sprint from start to finish, getting the boat finished and delivered. We put a lot of time and effort into making sure that everything we had control over was done to the highest level of perfection as well as customized to the way the owner likes to enjoy yachting.”

A good deal of effort was put into the loose furniture layout, the deck exterior, and the interior soft goods. In doing so, Lockhart reckons they were able to imprint a great “personality” onto an already great boat. “Reymond Langton Design did a very good job of putting together a very nice high-end interior, but also monochromatic, which is appropriate when what you are doing is trying to sell the boat to a future client and you want that boat to be as appealing to as broad a market as possible. And it was our job to come in and put our personality on it and it came out very nicely.”

The yacht has already completed two Atlantic crossings and more than 15,000 miles in the first year. “She just runs like a dream, rides like a dream,” Lockhart says. “We are not remotely the biggest in the Mediterranean, but we are easily the prettiest!”

Lockhart is particularly impressed by the boat’s use of space as every cranny is used and enjoyed. “Typically, on these boats you have areas where people just don’t go — that’s not the case here, every area has its own appeal, its own function, its own versatility, from the beach club to the sun deck, to the wheelhouse deck aft. They are all very inviting.”

The yacht has a traditional layout. The only unorthodox element is the tender bay on the bridge deck forward of the pilothouse. “That,” says Lockhart, “gives you a wholly dedicated space aft, which was a new feature for us. It took a while to figure out what that space meant for us.” It now has various functions: a gym for parents, a “den” for the teenage girls, and at anchor, it’s a beautiful beach club. “We decided toy-storage wise that anything visible needed to look like a high-end retail showroom,” he says. The team opted for a cantilever umbrella and large daybed on the sun deck.

“I’m very happy with her seaworthiness,” Lockhart says. “We’ve done two crossings with this boat and it’s definitely a luxury not to have to put a lot of concern into things like weather. We try to avoid getting beaten up by it — I’ve had more than enough of that — but on board Ocean Z , if you’ve got to go, you can go.”

Machinery wise, the systems meet expected standards and Lockhart considers it a very well put together boat, although if he had written the spec, he would have done it a bit differently here and there. “The layout for crew duties is fine: the engine room is compact but accessible, the stew pantry is not huge but completely functional, the galley has a nice space, and there is plenty of cold storage,” Capt. Lockhart says. “The exterior decks are very large and, despite the fact there’s very little built-in furniture, there’s still plenty of storage for bosun’s stuff, and so on. Crew accommodation is nicely outfitted, the sound privacy is fantastic — you can’t hear anything on the other side of the door.”

Eastern Med is the itinerary this summer; Scandinavia and Alaska beckon for future cruise, for the yacht plans to do everything but Zzzzz.

This article was originally published in the July 2023 issue of Dockwalk.

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M/Y OCEAN Z (ex Project Aura) Heesen

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• M/Y OCEAN Z (ex Project Aura)

If you have any questions about the M/Y OCEAN Z (ex Project Aura) information page below please contact us .

Luxury motor yacht OCEAN Z (ex Project Aura) was built by Heesen Yachts with a launch in 2021. The yacht features spacious and elegant accommodation for up to 10 guests in 5 cabins, with beautiful Scandinavian style interiors by Reymond Langton Design, while her striking exterior lines were designed by Clifford Denn. She has a crew of 9 on board and measures 49.9 m (163'8'').

NOTABLE FEATURES OF OCEAN Z: ~Renowned interior and exterior designers ~Sundeck Jacuzzi ~Beach club with bar ~Skylounge bar ~Range of 3,800 nautical miles ~Air conditioning ~Wi-Fi

The main deck aft is mostly shaded by the upper deck overhang, providing a cool lounging area to enjoy the fresh sea breeze. The sun-exposed stern is lined with sunbeds, which join into C-shaped sofa seating at the centre for comfort and convenience. A stairway leads down both sides of the stern to the beach club and fold-down swim platform, which creates a generous outdoor area for sunbathing and lounging beside the sea.

The upper deck aft is furnished with a covered alfresco dining area and a sun-drenched aft section filled with three over-sized armchairs and a sofa around two coffee tables. The foredeck area is used for storing the water toys and tender, which are safely launched and retrieved using a Davit crane.

The sundeck offers an abundance of sunbathing space, with sun loungers along the aft section and the forward sunbeds surrounding the Jacuzzi tapering off into sofa seating near the centre. The alfresco dining and lounging area is placed under the shade of the hardtop, with flavoursome meals and drinks produced on the grill and at the bar.

The interiors from British studio Reymond Langton Design feature crisp white walls and teak decking, with accents in blue and green ranging in tone throughout the rooms to add character to each space.

The beach club is a wonderfully light and welcoming environment, offering guests and visitors a place to relax beside the water out of the sun. The bar will provide refreshments while guests take in the views from the two armchair/loungers, with a drinks table beside each for convenience.

In the main salon, the formal dining area consists of 10 plush chairs in white and cream detailing, surrounding a large table. The main salon aft features an aft-facing chaise-lounger and a sofa to port, with additional armchairs to create a cosy conversation area.

M/Y OCEAN Z (ex Project Aura) Specifications

The skylounge has a serene atmosphere ideal for laidback conversation and winding down at the end of a busy day: A curving sofa and armchairs are placed around a coffee table, and a widescreen TV mounted on the wall will entertain along with the latest sound systems while drinks are served at the wet bar.

A pair of MTU 8V4000 M63 engines provide a top speed of 15 knot and a cruising speed of 13 knots, at which she is capable of a range of 3,800 nautical miles.

Yacht Accommodation

The accommodation sleeps a maximum of 10 guests over 5 en-suite cabins: 1 Master suite and 4 further guest cabins. ~ Among the options for the Master suite, there is the option for a bright white room with band-like windows, a king-sized bed with a widescreen TV integrated into the opposite wall, and a sofa beneath the windows. ~ The crew complement has yet to be announced.

Amenities and Extras

We do have available further amenity, owner and price information for the 49.9 m (163'8'') yacht M/Y OCEAN Z (ex Project Aura), so please enquire for more information.

M/Y OCEAN Z (ex Project Aura) Disclaimer:

The luxury yacht M/Y OCEAN Z (ex Project Aura) displayed on this page is merely informational and she is not necessarily available for yacht charter or for sale, nor is she represented or marketed in anyway by CharterWorld. This web page and the superyacht information contained herein is not contractual. All yacht specifications and informations are displayed in good faith but CharterWorld does not warrant or assume any legal liability or responsibility for the current accuracy, completeness, validity, or usefulness of any superyacht information and/or images displayed. All boat information is subject to change without prior notice and may not be current.

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Arthur Brouwer CEO: "At Heesen Yachts we strive to combine engineering and design, with luxury elements such as detailed interiors with high-end materials. All these aspects are perfected with top-notch technology, innovation and modern cutting edge-design, creating a truly luxurious yacht."

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Discover the Stunning Heesen 50m Superyacht Ocean Z - A Masterpiece of Luxury and Engineering

Stepping aboard the Heesen 50m superyacht Ocean Z is like entering a magical realm where art intersects with engineering. Aboard this magnificent yacht, luxury is redefined, and every detail exudes craftsmanship. Ocean Z is a fine example of Heesen’s renowned shipbuilding expertise, and aptly captures the essence of elegance and performance with aesthetic allure and sophisticated features.

From the moment Ocean Z graces the horizon, her sleek silhouette commands attention. Designed by Clifford Denn Design, the exterior styling is a harmonious blend of contemporary aesthetics and timeless grace. The yacht’s robust steel hull and aluminum superstructure with reversed steel bow embodies her impeccable beauty, durability, and performance. Her streamlined profile is accentuated by large sweeping windows cutting across the length of the yacht’s structure and allowing natural light to flood the interior spaces, creating plenty of bright and airy areas. Her exterior is a tasteful blend of sharp lines, shining dramatic windows, and sleek gentle curves, which reflect the light beautifully, making her a striking sight whether at anchor or slicing through the ocean waves.

Beyond her aesthetic appeal, Ocean Z boasts innovative engineering and cutting-edge technology. Powered by two MTU 8V 4000 M63 engines, she has a maximum speed of 15 knots and a transatlantic range of 3,800 nautical miles. The yacht’s propulsion system includes twin screw propellers and a ZF 5311 gearbox, ensuring smooth and efficient performance. The latest technology has been installed to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for guests. Onboard systems are controlled by an intuitive interface, allowing the crew to manage everything from lighting and climate control to entertainment and navigation at the touch of a digital screen.

The advanced navigation system includes the latest in radar and GPS technology, ensuring a safe and efficient voyage across the world’s oceans.

Comfort is paramount aboard Ocean Z, and achieved with the advanced stabilization system by Naiad Dynamics. The state-of-the-art system provides zero-speed stabilization, significantly reducing roll and ensuring a smooth and comfortable experience when the yacht is at anchor or at sea. Whether cruising at high speeds or gently drifting, Ocean Z offers a ride that is both smooth and stable, allowing guests to relax and enjoy their surroundings without interruption. A comprehensive array of auxiliary systems are designed to enhance the onboard experience. Two Zenoro generators provide power, while the Idromar watermakers ensure a constant supply of fresh water. Air-conditioning system by Heinen & Hopman maintains a perfect climate throughout the yacht, and treatment systems ensure that Ocean Z meets the highest environmental standards.

In addition to its quiet power and luxurious amenities, Ocean Z is designed with sustainability in mind. The yacht’s systems are fully optimized for maximum efficiency, reducing energy consumption and minimizing the vessel’s environmental impact. Watermakers and sanitary systems ensure that the yacht operates in an eco-friendly manner, maintaining the pristine condition of the oceans as it sails across the sea.

Ocean Z showcases the craftsmanship and attention to detail that Heesen is renowned for. High-quality materials such as marble, and fine polished woods creates an atmosphere of quiet opulence. Custom-designed furniture, hand-picked artwork, and bespoke fittings add to the calm yet modern charm and character of the yacht. Attention to detail by the yacht’s interior design team is evident, every piece of furniture, every item has been carefully selected to complement the yacht’s color scheme and enhance the sense of space and luxury. Custom-made pieces, intricate inlays and bespoke cabinetry reflect the high standards of craftsmanship and each space has been thoughtfully designed to provide both comfort and aesthetic pleasure, creating a number of cohesive and inviting environments across the yacht’s decks. 

As one steps onto the main deck, a spacious aft deck greets visitors, perfect for al fresco dining or lounging. The decking adds a touch of warmth and sophistication, contrasting beautifully with the yacht’s sleek exterior lines. Moving forward, into the expansive salon, a masterpiece of interior design by Reymond Langton Design awaits. A calming blend of textures and tones, with sumptuous furnishings inviting conviviality and relaxation. Rich woods, luxurious fabrics, and exquisite details combine to create an atmosphere of refined elegance. The large, panoramic windows not only frame breathtaking views but also enhance the sense of the yacht’s expansive interior space. The seating area, adorned with plush sofas and chic coffee tables, with contrasting accents of green and blue, is perfect for socializing with friends or unwinding after a day at sea.

Photos: Jeff Brown, Breed Media | Words: Emma Hersh

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OCEAN Z Interior & Exterior Photos

49.9m  /  163'9 | heesen | 2022.

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Ocean Z - Heesen by David Churchill

by David Churchill

Excitement is guaranteed by the 2,000 kW of the two MTU 8V4000 M63 engines that can push Ocean Z up to 15 knots, with 60,000 liters of fuel for over 4,000 miles of range. If you want to start daydreaming about your AmaZing adventure with capital A and Z (from Ocean), all you need to do is just take a look around!

The 2,000-mile crossing from Rotterdam to Algiers was enough to assess quality and comfort on the new Ocean Z presented by Heesen at the last Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. 

Despite rough seas with strong waves along the Atlantic route, the 50-metre Steel class built by the Dutch shipyards was able to sail at  speeds of 10 knots, with peaks of 13, guaranteeing on-board safety and comfort standards in line with the other two Steel class boats. 

Ex Project Aura is an ambitious plan: this 500-ton superyacht combines the characteristic streamlined contours of sports cars with large spaces on board, an essential requirement for boats of this size. The slender bow and sloping windows designed by Clifford Denn are the hallmark of an aggressive design enhanced by meticulous attention to detail on the sundeck which also includes a Jacuzzi. 

The luxurious beach club expresses the level of comfort that the 10 guests Ocean Z can welcome on board will enjoy. The interiors’ elegance was entrusted to the taste of Reymond Langton Design. 

The English studio has chosen textural fabrics with shades between white and taupe gray, interspersed with more vigorous inserts in marine colors: a simple yet refined design recalling Scandinavian elegance, perhaps a bit stingy when it comes to bright-colored emotions. 

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Heesen 50M STEEL Ocean Z Yacht Hull number YN 19650

Heesen 50m steel ocean z price and sales info, heesen 50m steel ocean z overview, heesen 50m steel ocean z specifications.

Heesen 50M STEEL Ocean Z Description

This yacht is a 50-metre steel-hulled, full displacement motoryacht below the 500GT threshold with naval architecture and engineering by Heesen’s in-house team of experts. With a bulbous bow and an easily driven hull form optimised to glide through the water, she is designed with the latest developments in cutting edge naval architecture. Powered by twin MTU 8V4000 M63 she will reach a top speed of 15 knots and will have a range of 3,800Nm at cruising speed of 12 knots.

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Project Sophia: a deep dive into Heesen's 50-metre fast cruising yacht

With the hull and superstructure now joined on Heesen’s Project Sophia, BOAT takes a closer look inside the construction shed.

Project Sophia is yet another example of Heesen’s ability to build highly sought-after yachts on speculation and represents an opportunity to own a brand-new, Dutch-quality yacht with a shortened delivery time. With the semi-displacement hull and superstructure joined by skilled craftsmen at the shipyard’s facility in Oss, Project Sophia has reached a significant milestone in the build process. The 50-metre fast cruising yacht will be the fourth sistership in this class, following Aquamarine , Book Ends and the just-delivered ALP .

Bold and curvaceous

Project Sophia boasts a curvy, sporty exterior designed by Frank Laupman of Omega Architects . The downward-pointing bow not only accentuates her elongated profile but also enhances functionality by providing an excellent line of sight from the bridge and offering guests expansive views of their surroundings. The exterior is further customisable with bespoke colour options.

Italian designer Cristiano Gatto extended this curvaceous theme into the yacht’s interiors, ensuring that the fluid shapes are mirrored throughout. Circular dining tables adorn the main saloon and bridge deck aft, while a round whirlpool takes centre stage on the sundeck. Curved furniture, bars, coffee tables and artwork are placed throughout, enhancing the overall aesthetic. Notably, the skylounge, first tested on the 50-metre Rocket , features a modular design with a curved sofa, perfect for creating intimate settings for family and friends.

Through his new venture ONDE ATELIER, Gatto created bespoke loose furniture with materials specifically chosen to endure the elements. A standout feature in the main saloon’s dining area is the “china room”, an area where owners can securely store table sets for exotic dining experiences.

Style and functionality

Project Sophia is a mix of aesthetics, practicality and functionality, ensuring that every design element serves a purpose. The elevated main deck aft features expansive sunpads, a subtle design choice that allows for a full-height, multi-purpose tender garage and beach club on the lower deck. This area is equipped with a large fold-down transom and ample headroom, enhancing both usability and comfort.

The yacht will accommodate up to 12 guests across five staterooms. The master suite, located on the main deck forward, spans the full nine-metre beam, while the lower deck houses two double and two twin guest cabins, and quarters for a crew of nine.

Gatto has gone for a "modern design without being cold” that showcases “a blend of sophistication, functionality and aesthetic appeal”. To add a personal touch, the interior is available in two additional colour schemes. Guests have ample space to unwind, with the beach club providing an ideal spot to relax by the water, swim or enjoy the array of water toys on board. The main deck aft offers a tranquil area for relaxation after a day of activities, while al fresco dining can be enjoyed on the bridge deck aft or the spacious sundeck.

The sundeck itself is divided into various zones, including sofas, a bar, a dining table and a Jacuzzi surrounded by sunpads. The foredeck features a secluded spot with sofas, perfect for enjoying an intimate morning coffee, an evening cocktail or a moment of solitary reflection.

Fast and efficient

Project Sophia exemplifies Heesen's expertise in building fast, fuel-efficient aluminium yachts. The sub-500GT vessel features a hard-chine shallow draught hull designed by the shipyard’s in-house naval architects, making her both swift and economical to operate. With a draught of just 2.1 metres, achieved through a recessed propeller tunnel, Project Sophia is perfectly suited for cruising in the shallow waters of the Bahamas.

Her underwater body design enhances fuel efficiency by 12 per cent compared to traditional hulls, making her ideal for both island hopping and longer voyages. Powered by twin MTU 16V 4000 M65L engines (IMO Tier III-compliant), Project Sophia can reach a top speed of 23 knots. Additionally, she boasts a transatlantic range of 3,100 nautical miles at a cruising speed of 11 knots. For ultimate comfort, both while cruising and at anchor, Project Sophia is equipped with zero-speed stabilisers, ensuring a smooth and stable experience in all conditions.

Currently available for sale, Project Sophia is due for delivery in Q1 of 2026. For more information, contact Heesen today .

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