Swan 51 - the journey continues

by Nautor Swan 15 Sep 2023 11:36 BST

The first Swan 51 represented a landmark in the inspirational evolution of the Nautor Swan brand. Launched in 1981 the model marked the first collaboration between Swan and the celebrated naval architect German Frers. Based on the successful 51-foot Admiral's Cup racer Blizzard, the Swan 51 was the start of one of the most successful partnerships in yachting history with over 700 yachts produced so far to his design.

It is a partnership that continues to this day with the unveiling of the New Swan 51, representing the ongoing and always evolving creative relationship with Frers Naval Architecture.

Swan 51 - photo © Nautor's Swan

In another mark of the model's enduring heritage, the 1,000th yacht ever built by Nautor was named Formosa — a Swan 51. It is also perhaps noteworthy that a second-hand Swan 51 was the first yacht ever owned by Leonardo Ferragamo, now of course the owner of Nautor Swan.

The Swan 51 has a special place in the history of the company.

Swan 51 - photo © Nautor's Swan

Design

Yacht design is not only a linear progression, it can also be influenced by new developments that change the course of evolution. In recent years solo ocean racing has set a new benchmark, requiring yachts that are both fast and safe, while offering the vital comfort and support for the crew to stay alert.

The first Frers-designed model to address these emerging requirements was the Swan 115 almost a decade ago, and there have been no fewer than 120-plus yachts across 12 other Nautor models since then further developing the philosophy.

The new Swan 51 steps into the narrow space between the Swan 48 and Swan 55, and draws valuable design insights and experience from the great success of both those models, with more than 70 currently sailing all around the world.

Based on that impressive database, alongside the valued feedback from owners, the new Swan 51 offers design and practical solutions that make the yacht comfortable and easy to sail from coastal waters to long offshore passages. The Swan 51 also features a mast which has been moved more to the centre of the yacht, further enhancing balance.

Ultimately, like all Swans, the 51 is a no-compromise sailing yacht, a pure sailor, more a sportscar than a limousine. It is designed to be reactive to steer and responsive to sail adjustments, bringing the sensations of sailing alive.

In short, it is designed to be fun.

Swan 51 - photo © Nautor's Swan

Hull

Another beneficiary of the detailed experiences shared by a generation of Swan owners, and the information gathered by the Frers design office, are the hull lines of the Swan 51 which combine performance, comfort at sea and safety both on deck and down below. Refinements have allowed the finessing of shapes and volume distribution within the hull to create a well-proven balance within a glass and foam core sandwich structure.

The twin-rudder configuration allows the yacht to remain balanced, preventing any tendency to broach even while steering at a 20-degree heeling angle, at which the hull is optimised to provide maximum performance. The rudder stocks are both mounted in sealed compartments to minimise any possible damage or flooding following a collision at sea.

At the same time the dual-rudder configuration also allows access to shallower anchorages when in cruising mode, as does the optional shallow draught keel (2.05m) compared to the standard keel (2.45m). An optional 3.2m performance keel is also available.

A bow thruster is fitted as standard to the Swan 51 to enable low-speed manoeuvring and docking, particularly when sailing short-handed. In addition the fixed bowsprit, common to all recent Swan models, also houses the anchor which is well forward of the bow to avoid damage on hoisting.

The optional double-action transom adds a maxi-style swim platform to the Swan 51 experience, and simplifies tender storage in the stern garage.

Swan 51 - photo © Nautor's Swan

Deck

The deck on any yacht is its most important area, either for performance racing or relaxed and comfortable cruising, and Swan has always prided itself on its attention to detail with a deck optimised for efficient, safe and enjoyable sailing.

As well as incorporating all of these core components, the Swan 51 offers three different configurations of deck and sail plans, allowing owners to set their yacht up to meet their specific needs and plans.

The Base Boat (cruise version): a well-proven, no-nonsense setup with a 147.1m2 sail plan and everything you need to enjoy sailing and life at sea with friends and family.

Comfort Set-up: includes a number of options designed for pleasant and easy Sailing alongside total protection of the cockpit. These options include the Arch Concept — for the first time ever on a Swan model — that acts as the mainsail sheet track to keep the cockpit clear, and support for canvas covering living areas on deck. This configuration is also offered with an in-mast furling for the 145.8m2 mainsail and a self-tacking staysail in a recessed track that provides power and performance while remaining manageable with a small crew.

Sport Version: dedicated to performance with a range of options that include a 1.5m taller carbon fibre mast to support the increased 161.2m2 mainsail, with running backstays also an alternative to the fixed model if a square-topped mainsail is selected.

As with other models across the Swan range, every option across all configurations can be mixed and matched to meet owners' requirements.

Swan 51 - photo © Nautor's Swan

Interiors

Refined luxury, maximum comfort, classic style and elegance — all that you expect from the Swan brand are present in the new Swan 51.

A spacious main saloon greets you descending the main companionway with its clear feeling of soace and volume. With natural light from numerous apertures, the C-shaped sofa offers a welcoming space.

The chart table and main table locations, as well as seating and storage areas, can be configured around a range of options to suit owner's preferences.

The galley, following the successful layouts seen in the Swan 48 and 55, offer domestic-level amenities and appliances as required.

A three-cabin interior layout features a spacious owner's cabin forward with private head and shower space. VIP and guest cabins facilities, with a common head and shower, are located aft.

The sound-proofed engine room is readily accessible, with space allowed for an optional genset

Styling and finishing, in wood, fabrics and leather, is offered in a variety of moods created by interior designer Misa Poggi: Swan Soul, Scandi Vision, Blue Genoa and Velvet Vibe.