Yacht Class n°37 (june-july-agust 2024)

Nautor Swan

The iconic Finnish shipyard Nautor Swan surprises with every new launch, even if at first glance nothing seems to have changed.  Behind the classic appearance of the Swan 108 lies a real intelligence in terms of configuration and ergonomics. So, there‘s always room for improvement.

Written by : Christophe Varène – Photos : DR

Boarding a new Nautor Swan is never trivial and always an emotional experience. The visit of the Swan 108, presented at the last Monaco Yacht Show, was no exception. Inspired by the 88, the new member of the maxi-Swan family is positioned between the 98 and the 120. Elegance is ever-present and the line of this boat is characterised by a purity of design. Limited freeboard, a straight bow by with a powerful bowsprit, a discreet deckhouse and an almost constant main beam in the aft half:  result of the collaboration with the famous Argentinian architect German Frers and the Italian naval architects Micheletti + Partners is a sailboat that combines power and refinement. The deck plan is very clear with large free areas covered in teak. When boarding via the port side gangway, as is customary in the Mediterranean, the visitor may be pleasantly surprised by the dimensions of the swimming platform with the tender garage open. In fact, the transom is an integral part of the deck, and when it is folded out, the surface area obtained is considerable, with several advantages: easier handling of the tender and simplified boarding, creation of a beach club.

A sophisticated deck plan

Let‘s move to the deck to appreciate the quality of its ergonomics. At first glance, it seems to be on a single level from stern to bow, but we soon noticed small differences in height, which are meant either to delimit the functionality of the spaces (relaxation at the stern, navigation in the centre, conviviality in the cockpit…), or to provide lateral protection against the waves that would invade the deck. Everywhere, a lack of obstacles facilitates circulation on board. The design of the two steering positions is very light, but no less practical: on both sides, the helmsman will find all the controls, including those for the engine and the bow thruster. Those are positioned further forward and outwards to offer panoramic views, including of the sails. The latter are controlled by four impressive winches, with the mainsail sheet in the centre of the deck, with no track. With nearly 350 m² of upwind sail supported by a carbon rigging, the Swan 108 will naturally have good speeds to fulfil her offshore sailing programme and the ability to switch off the engine at the slightest breeze. Especially since, with most of the construction in carbon, displacement is substantial but moderate.

A welcoming and modular cockpit

One of the last highlights of the exterior design is located in the cockpit area. When sailing, it can be reduced to two simple settees facing each other but, at anchor, it becomes the ultimate social centre. Two tables can be installed there and converted into sun loungers in an instant, while maintaining a central aisle. As an option, a third bench can be fitted in a vertical position (reducing the size of the two side benches), which creates a warmer atmosphere but makes it a little more difficult to move around. Now it’s time to visit the interiors of this Swan 108, hoping that they have also been adapted for living at sea and for the quieter moments at anchor.

Bright interior volumes 

Misa Poggi, who has been responsible for the interiors for several years, has created four different atmospheres: Spirit of Finland in the light and bright spirit of the shipyard’s home country, Timeless Classic with a timelessness tinged with contemporary, Traditional Navy with the mahogany and navy blue shades associated with yachting, and Wine Cowes based on dark woods and burgundy for a “so British” feel. These proposals can of course be adapted to the owner’s wishes. The Swan 108 we visited had different characteristics with a strong dominance of white enhanced by a modern treatment of the woodwork and touches of red. The furniture is rounded, creating a soft and inviting atmosphere. The spaciousness and numerous sources of natural light (hull, deckhouse and portholes) are immediately apparent when entering the saloon. Its elevated position – some of the technical elements being housed under the floor to centre the weights and lower the centre of gravity – offers views from the large saloon area to port or the table to starboard, which seats eight comfortably.

A cocoon-like master cabin

Forward, a more intimate salon offers a bit of privacy for watching your favourite TV show on the big screen. There is also a door to the VIP with headroom and storage. The bow of the Swan 108 is dedicated to the master: the king size bed faces the navigation and is accessible from both sides. To port, the owner enjoys a desk that doubles as a dressing table, and a sofa while a beautiful bathroom with double washbasin and shower cubicle occupies the forward section. Passing through the saloon to the aft – where ceiling railings ensure safe movement at sea – there are two en-suite guest cabins, which can be fitted with either a double bed or two single beds. Finally, the rear third of the boat is dedicated to the crew, with three cabins with bunks, a messroom, a functional and fully equipped kitchen for the chef, and a navigation station where the captain can manage the navigation and all the technical elements of the maxi yacht. From this area, direct access to the aft deck ensures passenger privacy. It is hard to find fault with this Swan 108. Like every Swan, she benefits from extensive know-how in terms of construction, the expertise of recognized partners and a relentless drive for improvements and innovations.