Swan 47-2 S&S CB (Nyyc 48) Information, Review, Specs

The Swan 47-2 S&S CB, also known as the NYYC 48, was part of a production run for the Swan 47 series that spanned from 1976 to 1984, with a total of 70 hulls built. This particular variant, designated as Sparkman & Stephens design #2201, emerged as a slightly later and more specialized iteration of the Swan 47, notably featuring a keel/centerboard configuration. Nautor's Swan, under the visionary leadership of Pekka Koskenkyla, committed early on to producing high-quality, high-performance sailing yachts using modern materials like fiberglass, a principle that underpinned the construction of the Swan 47-2.

A distinct subset of this model, the NYYC 48, comprised only ten boats, specifically hull numbers 60 and higher within the broader Swan 47 series. Four of these were originally sold to members of the prestigious New York Yacht Club. These NYYC 48 versions often incorporated a Mk. II interior layout and an aft cabin, along with a slightly larger sail plan, including a 2-foot longer boom and a 1.2-foot longer spinnaker pole, indicating a refined focus on both interior comfort and sailing efficiency. Sparkman & Stephens' design philosophy during this era emphasized balanced lines and seaworthiness, creating yachts that were not only fast but also exceptionally stable and safe for offshore passages.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Nautor Swan 47-2 S&S CB is renowned for its excellent sailing performance and comfortable motion, particularly in offshore conditions. Its robust displacement of 34,400 lbs, combined with a waterline length of 36.24 feet, results in a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 323. This firmly places the vessel in the heavy displacement cruiser category, suggesting a boat that prioritizes comfort and stability in a seaway over light-air speed. The substantial ballast of 17,500 lbs, accounting for an impressive 50.9% of its total displacement, provides exceptional stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up to heavy winds with confidence and maintain a comfortable angle of heel.

With a calculated Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 15.4, the Swan 47-2 S&S CB is a moderately powered yacht, indicating reliable performance across a range of conditions, though it may not be the quickest in very light breezes. However, its masthead sloop rig and well-proportioned sail plan ensure a powerful drive when the wind fills in. The centerboard configuration offers distinct advantages, allowing for a shallower draft for exploring cruising grounds while enabling a deeper draft for enhanced upwind performance and reduced leeway when offshore. Owners have noted that the centerboard version can perform very well to its rating, even outperforming fixed-keel boats in windy races, and the sophisticated centerboard system is designed to operate quietly. Her hull speed is calculated at a respectable 8.07 knots, reflecting her capability as a swift and efficient passage maker.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Swan 47-2 S&S CB is characteristic of Nautor's Swan's commitment to luxurious and practical living spaces. While specific maximum headroom varies, many models, particularly the NYYC 48 versions, feature an approximate saloon headroom of 6.4 feet (1.95 meters), providing ample space for comfortable movement below deck. The typical interior arrangement often includes a "Mk. II interior" with an aft cabin, offering privacy and additional sleeping quarters.

Crafted with Nautor's signature attention to detail, the interior commonly boasts exquisite teak joinery and a traditional teak and holly sole, exuding a timeless nautical elegance. The main saloon is generously proportioned, offering comfortable seating and dining areas for extended periods aboard. A dedicated chart table is a practical feature for navigation, while amenities such as a diesel-ducted hot air heating system (e.g., Eberspacher) ensure comfort in cooler climates. Storage is generally ample, reflecting its design as a serious cruising yacht. Overall, the accommodations prioritize functionality, durability, and a high level of finish, consistent with Nautor's Swan's reputation for quality.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Swan 47-2 S&S CB consistently praise its solid construction and the comfortable motion it provides in a seaway, highlighting its suitability for serious bluewater cruising. The timeless Sparkman & Stephens design and Nautor's renowned build quality are frequently cited strengths, contributing to the yacht's enduring value and appeal. The versatility offered by the centerboard keel, allowing for both shallow-water access and enhanced upwind performance, is a particularly appreciated feature, with some owners noting its competitive capabilities in races.

However, like many yachts of its vintage, the Swan 47-2 S&S CB can present some common maintenance considerations. A recurring issue noted by owners is the tendency for the original forward hatch to develop leaks, particularly when sailing upwind in choppy conditions, often requiring re-bedding or replacement. Some S&S Swans have also exhibited cracks at the front and rear of the keel joint, which, while sometimes considered a "typical well-known" characteristic, warrants careful inspection. Additionally, issues with the toerail have been mentioned as potential maintenance concerns. Despite these common points of attention, the collective viewpoint underscores the Swan 47-2 S&S CB as a highly capable, beautifully built, and rewarding sailboat for those who appreciate its classic lines and robust offshore capabilities.