The long curve in the photo above is the high-performance hull of a new custom project in build at Southern Wind Shipyard. This SWS custom 100 (approximately 30-meter), with a confidential name for now, is the culmination of a conversation the client started a year ago.
In fact, the owner, an experience sailor seeking a high-performance sailing superyacht, began working with Nauta Design in 2017. He turned to the Italian studio for the styling, interior design, and general arrangement. It tends to lend a contemporary look to the power and sailing yachts it designs. In fact, that was a big factor in the owner’s decision. Mario Pedol, co-founder of Nauta Design, says three things are of utmost importance to the owner. “Functionality for safe and comfortable navigation” is the first. A close second is “high performance to enjoy racing in the most renowned superyacht regattas.” And, last but not least, the third aspect is “sexy, appealing design to give the yacht a modern, aggressive, and sporty look.”
After finalizing the looks, the owner decided to bring in Reichel/Pugh for naval architecture. The San Diego-based design team handles engineering work for hard-core racing craft as well as superyachts. Furthermore, it’s worked with both Nauta Design and Southern Wind Shipyard previously. For example, the trio developed All Smoke, a custom SWS90—the first custom yacht from Reichel/Pugh for the shipyard, in fact.
When it came time to consider a shipyard, Southern Wind Shipyard prevailed in the owner’s mind. Even though many sailing enthusiasts think of Southern Wind for its series builds, the South African yard does take on custom yachts occasionally, too.
Unfortunately, we have just few facts so far about this SWS custom 100. She’ll displace 63 tons, for instance. Because of the emphasis on racing, she’s employing carbon fiber composite construction. Lending some assistance here: Gurit, a specialist in composites structural engineering. In addition, the SWS custom 100 has a lifting keel. When the keel is fully down, draft should be 20 feet (6.1 meters). Further for racing, she has a flush deck and a significant sail area. Meanwhile, Southern Wind Shipyard is developing her systems. Naturally, overall, it is applying lessons from recent performance-cruiser series like the SW105 and SW96. Finally, inside, the sailing superyacht is nautical in nature, echoing the aggressive, modern exterior. The ambiance extends from the saloon through to the three guest cabins and forward owner’s suite.
The SWS custom 100 should see delivery in springtime 2020.
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