The search results provide good information for most sections.
Key findings from search results:
- Designer: Stephen Jones.
- Key Feature: Variable draft swing keel (3.12m – 1.00m or 10'3” – 3'3”). This is a defining characteristic of Southerly Yachts and a major selling point.
- Purpose: Sophisticated cruising yacht, renowned for its highly capable offshore performance, while also allowing exploration of shallow anchorages. An "ocean boat which loves the Mediterranean". Designed for bluewater sailing.
- Builder ethos: Quality of construction and finish shines through. Discovery (the parent company) is known for robust, comfortable, and highly capable bluewater cruising yachts for short-handed sailing.
- Sailing Performance: "Outstanding performance pointing to 30°". "Soft passages over waves". "Sails well". Solent rig (twin headstays) and self-tacking jib mentioned.
- Interior Layout: "Based on the same interior layout than her predecessors". "Various interior layouts available". Typically features an ensuite owner's stateroom aft, and a two-cabin layout is common. Quality of fit-out and finish is high.
- Owner's Perspectives/Common Problems: Limited direct owner reviews. Forum discussions mention "keel stuck" and "rudder problem" on older models, but these might not be specific to the 480 or current production. The builder article mentions a "strong community among its owners" and "Discovery Yacht Owner Forum". I should be cautious here and synthesize general sentiment about the brand's quality rather than specific 480 problems unless clearly stated. Given the limited specific 480 owner issues, I might focus on general strengths of Discovery/Southerly.
Now, I will structure the article based on the plan and incorporate these findings.
Ratios to incorporate:
- SA/Disp: 15.56 (moderate performance, not exceptionally light-air focused)
- Bal/Disp: 0.35 (35%) (moderate stability, not exceptionally stiff)
- Disp/LWL: 216.6 (medium displacement cruiser)
Let's start drafting the article.