Designed by German Frers, the new Swan 51 by Nautor Swan will be presented for the first time at the next Cannes Yachting Festival; it has the same hull length as its predecessor, which kicked off the fruitful (and long-standing) partnership between the famous naval architect and the Finish shipyard. Founded in 1981 witht he racer, Blizzard, which was successful in winning the Admiral’s Cup two years before, the Swan 51 has become a brand icon, and was, in particular, the trailblazer for the over 700 Nautor Swan vessels designed by Frers. Even the one-thousandth yacht (the Formosa) to come out of the shipyard was a Nauta 51.

“The size of the 50-footer – explains Giovanni Pomati, CEO for Nautor Swan – has always played a central role in sailing. Indeed, it is the ideal size to sail in nearly all conditions. Sometimes we forget how much joy can come from a fifteen metre yacht. The new Swan 51 is easy to sail, is very comfortable, with a spacious owner’s cabin and a VIP cabin, and is the perfect stepping stone into the world of Swan. With this model, one can truly experience the excellence of our brand”.

An all new Swan 51

Resulting from the experience acquired over the past few years making boats between 48 and 55 feet, combined with feedback from owners from around the world, who chose to sail with the Finnish shipyard, the new Swan 51 is a comfortable yacht with good sailing performance, whether it be in coastal waters or long, offshore crossings.

One of the improvements made was the location of the mast, moved further aft at the centre of the vessel, to significantly improve the balance and performance, contributing to a reactive sailing experience. Similarly to a sports car, rather than a limousine, according to its builder, the Swan 51 responds quickly at the helm, making it fun and engaging to sail.

Even the balance between design and space is focused on improved balance, not exclusively formal given the dual-helm configuration, which helps prevent any careening even in tight turns.

The optional draught of the 2.05m keel (compared to the standard 2.45m, or the 3.30m maximum), allows the vessel to sail in shallow waters, when cruising, while, forward propulsion makes it easier to manoeuvre and dock at low speeds, like the forward positioning of the anchor will avoid any potential damage to the hull when lifting.

But the showpiece of the Swan 51 is, like all its predecessors, the streamlined and efficient deck, safe and enjoyable even when not racing. Every detail has been carefully studied, from the storage space for the sails to the deckhouse, which combines the traditional Swan wedge-shape, introduced for the first time in 1970, to a more modern design, which integrate openable portholes and hideaway spray screens that can be folded away when not needed.

The size of the cockpit is larger than average for a 50-foot yacht: thanks to the wide body design, the width that can be used is equivalent to that of a 60-foot vessel, without compromising the functionality of the space on deck and the sides. This allows for the installation of two transformable tables, that can be put together to create a large surface, seating 10, or converted into spaces for sunbathing.

Custom interior layout

The interior layout is available in different configuration, in response to the needs of each owner. Designer Misa Poggi has fitted four different settings (Swan Soul, Scandi Vision, Blue Genoa, Velvet Vibe) which combine aesthetics and functionality, tradition and innovation in the choice of materials, furniture and finishes.

The windows create bright spaces below decks, with a warm and welcoming atmosphere: an extremely functional galley, just like on the Swan 48 and 55, two or three cabins, including an owners cabin with private toilet and shower. The engine room is soundproofed and prepared to accommodate an optional generator.

To the stern is a large platform that lowers down to water level, creating a close rapport with the water and making it easier to store a tender in the garage.

by Marcella Ottolenghi