Southern Wind starts construction of 35m sailing yacht SW108

The yacht, designed by Nauta Design and Farr Yacht Design, is expected to launch in early 2023.

South African manufacturer Southern Wind has announced the start of construction of a 35m SW108 Hybrid sailing yacht. Currently, the ship's hull and deck are being laminated. The launch of the yacht is expected in early 2023.

The yacht was designed by Nauta Design to order for a "young and passionate sailor". The naval architecture of the vessel was developed by Farr Yacht Design.

The yacht will have a carbon hull and masts, which will increase its speed characteristics. It is known that the future owner, who has made "special demands on the performance" of the vessel, is in close contact with the shipyard.

“Production will begin with a well-thought-out layout for exceptional performance in light winds as well as across a range of winds,” commented Farr Yacht Design Vice President Jim Schmicker, noting that the engine configuration, sail plan and ancillaries have been optimized through multiple iterations to best meet the expectations of her owner.

In particular, the maximum performance of the vessel will be ensured by a 6.2 meter long lifting keel, an enlarged sail plan and double rudders. Thanks to the use of carbon fiber and titanium, the displacement of the vessel will be only 73.2 tons. The yacht will be equipped with a hybrid diesel-electric propulsion system, developed jointly with BAE Systems.

The SW108 Hybrid will accommodate up to eight people thanks to the owner's cabin in the bow, as well as three guest cabins amidships. The seating and dining area will be located forward of the main saloon. In the aft part of the yacht, in the beach club, there will be an opening transom with a garage.