PJ-55 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The journey of the Swan 55 began in 1970, emerging from the innovative partnership between Nautor and Sparkman & Stephens. During this era, Nautor's vision, driven by founder Pekka Koskenkyla, was to combine traditional Finnish boat-building craftsmanship with modern materials and design principles, notably pioneering the use of fiberglass for hulls. G1, G8, G11 Sparkman & Stephens, known for their emphasis on seaworthiness, strong performance, and classic aesthetics, designed the Swan 55 with offshore capability and comfort as primary goals. Their philosophy for this model centered on achieving a harmonious balance between speed, comfort, and safety, resulting in a powerful and stable yacht.

The production run of the Swan 55 spanned from 1970 to 1974, during which Nautor's commitment to robust fiberglass construction allowed for consistent quality. G5 While specific "MkI" or "MkII" variations are not commonly cited for the Swan 55, each yacht would have been finished to the owner's specifications, allowing for some customization within the standard design.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Swan 55 is characterized by a heavy displacement hull, a hallmark of Sparkman & Stephens designs from this period, which contributes significantly to its renowned seaworthiness. With a Displacement to Length ratio of approximately 358, she falls firmly into the category of a traditional, heavy cruiser, designed to power through demanding sea states rather than plane over them.

Her Sail Area to Displacement ratio of around 16.0 suggests a yacht that appreciates a good breeze to hit her stride. While not designed as a light-air flyer, this ratio is indicative of a powerful sail plan capable of moving her substantial displacement efficiently in moderate to strong winds. The ballast to displacement ratio of about 37.2% further reinforces her stability, allowing her to stand up well to her canvas.

Anecdotal accounts and reviews consistently praise the Swan 55 for its excellent sailing characteristics and comfortable motion offshore. Owners frequently highlight her solid, dependable feel, her ability to track well, and her impressive performance in heavy weather. She is described as a strong and fast offshore boat, providing a stable and secure platform for extended passages.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Swan 55 was designed with comfort and functionality for extended cruising in mind. Although specific headroom details are not available, the overall layout typically provides spacious accommodations for its size and era. Common interior arrangements include a large and inviting main salon, a well-equipped galley, and multiple cabins, often featuring either a forward or aft master cabin configuration.

Nautor's Swan from this period is celebrated for its high-quality joinery, with interiors often finished in beautiful, warm woods such as teak, contributing to a classic and luxurious aesthetic. Storage is generally ample throughout the vessel, catering to the needs of offshore voyagers. Ventilation is typically provided through strategically placed deck hatches and opening portlights, ensuring a comfortable environment at anchor or underway.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Swan 55 consistently laud its exceptional build quality and the timeless appeal of its Sparkman & Stephens design. The yacht's robust construction and impressive seaworthiness are frequently cited as major strengths, offering a sense of security and comfort even in challenging conditions. The comfortable motion at sea and strong sailing performance are also highly appreciated.

As with any yacht of this vintage, some common maintenance considerations have emerged over time. These often include the potential for original deck fittings to develop leaks, necessitating re-bedding, and the need for upgrades to original plumbing and electrical systems to meet modern standards. However, the solid fiberglass hull and the durable lead keel are often highlighted as significant advantages, contributing to the boat's enduring structural integrity. While recognized as a powerful performer, some owners note that due to her substantial displacement, she is not optimized for very light air conditions. The strong sense of community among Swan owners also adds significant value to the ownership experience.