Nautor Swan, represented by Simpson Marine in Asia-Pacific (excluding Japan), has launched the new Swan 51, which will have its world premiere at the Cannes Yachting Festival (September 9-14). German Frers designed the yacht more than 40 years after his first design for Nautor Swan, the Swan 51 that launched in 1981, began an ongoing collaboration that has lasted over four decades.

The new Swan 51 is also the result of Nautor Swan’s experience of building around 70 yachts between 48-55ft in recent years. One of the key refinements is the mast position, now set further aft towards the centre of the yacht. This adjustment enhances the yacht’s balance and performance, contributing to a more refined and responsive sailing experience, according to Nautor Swan.

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 a sealed waterproof compartment to minimise any possible damage or flooding following a collision at sea.

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 enable low-speed manoeuvring and docking.

The fixed bowsprit also houses the anchor, which is set well forward of the bow to avoid damage on hoisting, while a long, voluminous sail locker includes anti-torsion cable. Aft, an optional double-action transom provides a maxi-style swim platform and simplifies tender storage in the stern garage.

The coachroof shape is the latest evolution of the new Frers design, combining the classic Swan wedge coachroof – first introduced in 1970 – with all the modern features, including housing for a self-tacking track, seven opening hatches, and a garage for the sprayhood.

The cockpit size exceeds the average space of a 50ft yacht due to an innovative wide-body coaming design. According to Nautor Swan, the usable width is comparable to that of a 60-footer, without compromising the functionality of the side decks. It allows for the installation of two flexible tables, which can be converted into sunbathing areas or combined into a single table seating up to 10.

The Swan 51 is also available in a Sport version featuring a 1.5m taller carbon mast – to support a 161.2sqm mainsail – and deeper keel, along with interior layout options that allow for customisation. Running backstays are also available as an alternative to fixed ones when a square-top mainsail is selected.

Below deck, the saloon is illuminated by natural light through hull and deck apertures, while the chart table, saloon table and seating configurations can be tailored to suit owner preferences. The galley adopts the design approach seen in the Swan 48 and 55.

The three-cabin layout includes the owner’s en-suite cabin forward and two aft guest cabins that share a spacious head and shower. The sound-proofed engine room is designed for easy access and maintenance, with dedicated space for an optional generator.

The interior styling by Misa Poggi includes a choice of four decors: Swan Soul, Scandi Vision, Blue Genoa and Velvet Vibe. nautorswan.com

simpsonmarine.com