Swan 51, the new bet (17 m) from Frers

Nautor Swan on the strength of its commercial success over the past year, thanks to +15 percent growth in sales and an active order book of more than 180 million euros, presented at the Cannes Boat Show two new sailing boat models signed Frers: the Swan 51 and Swan 80. To begin with let’s look together at the “smallest,” the new Swan 51. The Swan 80 will be discussed in a future article.

Swan 51, three souls of one boat

The first Swan 51 represented a milestone in Nautor Swan brand history. Launched in 1981, this model marked a change of direction for the Swan brand; in fact, it was the first boat to bear the signature of renowned naval architect German Frers, closing an era, that of hulls designed by Sparkman & Stephens. The collaboration with then up-and-coming Argentine designer German Frers, which continues to this day through the third generation of the line, Germán “Mani” Frers, can be described as one of the most successful partnerships in yachting history with over 700 boats produced.

Like its predecessor, designed to fill the huge gap between Sparkman & Stephens’ 47- and 65-footers, then still in production, today’s Swan 51 fits in between the current Swan 48 and Swan 55, completing the range of “small” performance cruisers. Designed to be fast and fun, it offers practical solutions that make the yacht comfortable and easy to navigate both along the coast and on long sailings. Swan 51 is available in three different configurations Standard (cruising), Comfort and Sport that suit the owner’s sailing style.

Hull

As for the boat’s living work, the shapes and volume distribution were refined to create a good balance between performance and comfort. The double rudder allows for optimal handling of the boat, preventing any tendency to oversteer even when turning at a heeling angle of 20 degrees, at which the hull is optimized to offer maximum performance. Both rudder axles are mounted in watertight compartments to minimize possible damage or flooding following a collision at sea. In addition, the dual rudder blades also allow for shallow areas in cruise mode, as does the optional shallow draft keel (2.05 m) compared to the standard keel (2.45 m). A higher-performance 3.2 m keel is also available as an option.

A bow thruster is fitted as standard on the Swan 51 to enable low-speed maneuvering and docking, particularly when sailing with a small crew. In addition, the fixed bowsprit, common to all recent Swan models, also houses the anchor, which is located well forward to prevent damage during hauling.

The optional transom adds a maxi-style swim platform to the Swan 51 experience and simplifies launching and hauling the tender in the aft garage.

Swan 51 – Deck and sail plan

The Swan 51 offers three different deck and sail plan configurations, allowing owners to outfit their yacht to meet their needs.

The standard version, the cruising version, offers a proven and practical set-up with a 147.1 sq. m. sail plan and everything you need to enjoy sailing and life at sea with friends and family.

The Comfort version, includes a range of options designed for pleasant and easy navigation combined with 360-degree cockpit protection. These options include the Arch Concept, a roll bar similar to that seen on X-Yachts X6 and a first-ever on a Swan model, which acts as a mainsail sheet guide to keep the cockpit clear and as a support for the bimini. This configuration is also offered with a 145.8 sq. m. furling mainsail in the mast and a self-tacking headsail.

Finally, there is the Sport version, dedicated to those who are looking for performance, which includes a 1.5 m taller carbon fiber mast to support the 161.2 sq. m. increased mainsail, and an adjustable backstay as an alternative to a fixed backstay , if you choose the square top mainsail.

Compared to past models, the Swan 51 features a mast that has been moved more to the middle of the boat, further improving the boat’s trim and balance.

Interior

Refined luxury, maximum comfort, classic style and elegance-everything you expect from the Swan brand is present aboard the new Swan 51. The main salon is spacious and welcoming, illuminated by natural light from the many windows in the deckhouse and hull. The position of the chart table and main table, as well as the seating and storage areas, can be configured according to the owner’s preference. The kitchen, inspired by the successful layouts seen in the Swan 48 and 55, offers amenities and appliances on par with home appliances.

The three-cabin interior layout includes a spacious forward master cabin with private bathroom and separate shower. Aft are the VIP and guest cabins, with shared bath and shower. The soundproof engine room is easily accessible, with enough space for an optional genset.

The style and finishes, in wood, fabrics and leather, are offered in a variety of moods created by interior designer Misa Poggi: Swan Soul, Scandi Vision, Blue Genoa and Velvet Vibe.

Technical Specs

Overall length 16.90 m
Hull length 15.55 m
Maximum beam 4.85 m
Standard draft 2.45 m
Displacement 18,000 kg
Sail area 147.1 sq. m.
Yanmar 80-hpengine (4JH80)
Beds 6
Interior layout 3 cabins and 2 bathrooms
Water tank capacity 500 l
Diesel tank capacity 650 l
German Frers Naval Architecture
Interior design Misa Poggi
Website www.nautorswan.com

James Barbaro