Swan 50-S&S Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The genesis of the Swan 50-S&S can be traced to Nautor's early commitment to producing high-performance sailing yachts that married Finnish boat-building traditions with modern materials and design principles, particularly the then-innovative use of fiberglass for hull construction. During this period, under the visionary leadership of Pekka Koskenkyla, Nautor's Swan rapidly gained a reputation for yachts that were not only fast and responsive but also supremely comfortable and robust enough for serious bluewater cruising.

The Swan 50-S&S, specifically Sparkman & Stephens design #2079.1, shares its fundamental hull shape with the equally respected Swan 48 (S&S #2079). The primary distinction lies in the 50's traditional/extended counter, which lengthens the waterline and enhances her aesthetic appeal. Sparkman & Stephens' design philosophy, evident in the Swan 50, consistently emphasized balanced performance, seaworthiness, and graceful aesthetics, aiming to create yachts that excelled both on the racecourse and in comfortable cruising. These vessels were often delivered as sloops but were also available as yawls, offering flexibility for different sailing preferences. Notably, a similar design was also marketed in the United States by Palmer Johnson as the PJ-48/50 (S&S #2079.2).

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of just over 50 feet and a waterline length of 37.28 feet, the Swan 50-S&S was designed for capable performance. Her displacement of 36,000 lbs, coupled with a ballast of 14,100 lbs (approximately 39.2% ballast to displacement ratio), indicates a substantial and inherently stiff vessel. This high ballast ratio contributes significantly to her ability to stand up to a strong breeze, providing a comfortable and secure motion in a seaway.

Calculated performance ratios further illuminate her design intentions: a Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 15.15 suggests she is a moderate performer, capable of good speeds but not an extreme light-air specialist. Her Displacement to Length ratio of around 310.29 firmly places her in the category of a heavier, more traditional cruiser, emphasizing stability and comfort over outright light-displacement speed. Owners and reviewers frequently praise the Swan 50-S&S for her well-balanced helm, predictable handling, and comfortable motion in challenging conditions, characteristics that are hallmarks of Sparkman & Stephens' designs. She is often described as a rewarding boat to sail offshore, performing particularly well upwind.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific headroom details are not provided in the primary data, the Swan 50-S&S offers a classic and well-appointed interior layout typical of Nautor's Swan yachts of her era. Reviews and owner accounts consistently describe a high-quality finish, often featuring extensive use of varnished teak joinery that contributes to a warm and traditional ambiance below deck.

The interior typically includes a spacious main saloon, designed for comfortable living during extended cruises, often with a large dining area and ample seating. Forward, a V-berth cabin provides primary sleeping quarters. A well-equipped galley is generally situated in a practical location for ease of use, even offshore. Depending on the specific configuration, there are usually multiple sleeping cabins and at least one, often two, heads. Storage is typically generous throughout the yacht, catering to the needs of bluewater cruisers. While specific ventilation details vary, these yachts were built for serious cruising, suggesting adequate provisions for airflow.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Swan 50-S&S consistently laud its exceptional build quality and the robust, over-engineered nature of its construction. Many highlight the yacht's ability to handle heavy weather with grace and security, making it a highly trusted vessel for offshore passages. The timeless Sparkman & Stephens design is also a frequently praised aspect, with owners appreciating the yacht's classic aesthetics and enduring appeal. The strong community surrounding Nautor's Swan, especially the S&S designs, provides valuable support and shared knowledge among owners, further enhancing the ownership experience.

Common considerations often noted by owners relate to the age of the vessels. Like many yachts from the 1970s, original systems such as engines and electronics may require upgrades. Maintenance of the original teak decks, if present, is a recurring task, and potential deck leaks from aged fittings are not uncommon and often require re-bedding. Despite these typical age-related maintenance items, the underlying quality of the hull and structure remains a significant strength, allowing for these yachts to be meticulously maintained and enjoyed for decades.