A new Swan with a familiar soul
On July 11, Pietarsaari, Finland, became a yachting focus as the first hull of the new Swan 51 was launched. The yacht will make its official debut at the Cannes Yachting Festival and has already stirred interest across the sailing world.
The model pays tribute to a legendary heritage. It shares the name and length of the first collaboration between Germán Frers and Nautor Swan, launched in 1981. That design became a benchmark, setting in motion one of the most enduring and successful partnerships in modern yacht building.
“This size has always held a central role in the sailing world,” said Giovanni Pomati, CEO of Nautor Swan. “It’s the perfect balance. The new Swan 51 is easy to handle, offers spacious comfort, and delivers the excellence our brand is known for.”
Purpose-built for real sailors
The Swan 51 has been developed from decades of real-world sailing feedback, combined with the expertise gained from building around 70 yachts between 48 and 55 feet. The result is a design that prioritises balance, simplicity, and connection at the helm.
A key refinement is the position of the mast, now placed further aft. This shift improves balance and performance under sail. Like its predecessors, the 51 remains highly responsive, delivering an engaging feel whether short-handed or fully crewed. It is a yacht designed to be sailed, not just driven.
The twin-rudder configuration provides control and safety even when heeled, and makes broaching less likely. The rudder stocks are mounted in separate sealed compartments to protect against damage or flooding in the event of a collision.
Sailors can choose between three keel options, depending on their style of cruising. The standard keel draws 2.45 metres, while the shallow option sits at 2.05 metres, offering more access to sheltered anchorages. A 3.2-metre performance keel is also available for those chasing more aggressive upwind numbers.
Docking and manoeuvring are simplified with a standard bow thruster, and a fixed bowsprit helps with both sail handling and anchor clearance. There’s also an optional dual-action transom that doubles as a swim platform and tender garage, adding comfort and practicality without clutter.
Clever deck design and space to entertain
The deck of the new Swan 51 shows just how much thought has gone into the details. Designed with both performance and comfort in mind, the layout includes a large forward sail locker, a sleek coachroof, and an expansive cockpit that rivals much larger yachts.
The coachroof continues Swan’s signature wedge profile, updated with modern features such as a self-tacking jib track, seven opening hatches, and a concealed sprayhood garage. The result is a smooth, elegant profile with plenty of practical touches.
The cockpit design uses a wide-body coaming to dramatically increase usable space. It offers the footprint of a 60-footer, including two convertible tables that can turn into sunbeds or combine to form a full dining table for up to ten people.
The hull-to-deck joint has been subtly shaped to reduce visual bulk, giving the yacht a sleeker and more refined silhouette.
A sportier version is available for sailors who want enhanced performance. This variant includes a taller carbon mast, deeper keel, and the option of a square-top mainsail with running backstays.
Interiors that balance beauty and practicality
Below deck, the Swan 51 continues the brand’s tradition of understated luxury. Interior design is by Misa Poggi, offering four distinctive styles to suit different tastes: Swan Soul, Scandi Vision, Blue Genoa, and Velvet Vibe.
Natural light floods the saloon through multiple hull and deck windows. A C-shaped sofa creates a welcoming space for socialising, while the chart table and interior layout can be customised to suit each owner’s preferences.
The galley is inspired by the proven arrangements aboard the Swan 48 and 55. It features domestic-level appliances and ample storage, ensuring the yacht is well equipped for extended cruising or entertaining aboard.
The three-cabin layout includes a generous owner’s suite forward with its own en-suite head and shower. Two guest cabins aft share a large second head, with space and privacy for everyone onboard. The engine room is sound-proofed and easily accessible, with room for an optional generator.
Every element of the interior is designed to be both practical at sea and beautiful to live in, creating a home that feels just as comfortable during a passage as it does at anchor.
A legacy reborn
The original Swan 51 was more than just a yacht. Based on the Admiral’s Cup racer Blizzard, it marked the beginning of a relationship between Germán Frers and Nautor Swan that would produce more than 700 yachts over four decades.
The 1000th yacht ever built by Swan was a 51 named Formosa. Leonardo Ferragamo’s first yacht was a second-hand Swan 51. For many sailors, this model has become a symbol of performance, heritage, and style.
Now, the new Swan 51 carries that story forward. It captures the spirit of the original while delivering everything a modern sailor expects: safety, speed, comfort, and craftsmanship.
Whether crossing oceans, cruising the Med, or racing around the cans, the Swan 51 stands ready to deliver. It’s a yacht that rewards experienced sailors and invites new owners into one of the world’s most respected sailing families.
