Southerly 590 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Southerly 590 began its production in 2011, initially emerging as a larger iteration of the highly successful Southerly line. Designed by the esteemed Dubois Naval Architects, the yacht evolved from its predecessor, the Southerly 57RS, with minor modifications to create the 590. The design ethos behind the Southerly range, and particularly this large cruiser, was deeply rooted in Northshore Yachts' commitment to producing robust, adaptable vessels. This was exemplified by their pioneering lifting or "swing" keel technology, a hallmark feature that allows Southerly yachts to dramatically reduce their draft. This innovative system, central to Dubois' design for the 590, aimed to offer exceptional sailing performance while granting owners access to cruising grounds inaccessible to most fixed-keel yachts. While the indicates a 2011 start, some sources suggest a 2017 launch under Discovery Yachts, reflecting the brand's acquisition and continuation under new ownership. The model was also known as the Southerly 57RS and later, in some contexts, as the Discovery 57S.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Southerly 590, with a length overall of just over 58 feet and a waterline length exceeding 52 feet, is a substantial cruising yacht. She boasts a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 17.55. This figure suggests a boat with good all-around performance, capable of moving well in a range of conditions without being overtly focused on light-air racing or heavy-weather dominance. Her displacement to length ratio (D/L) of approximately 181 indicates a moderately light displacement for her size, hinting at a design that balances robust construction with efficient performance.

A defining characteristic of the Southerly 590's performance is its innovative wing keel, which can be raised or lowered. With a maximum draft of 10.73 feet when fully extended and a minimum draft of just 3.51 feet when retracted, the 590 offers extraordinary versatility. This variable draft is crucial to her handling: when the keel is fully deployed, the significant draft and a ballast-to-displacement ratio (B/D) of around 0.31 provide stability and allow the boat to stand up to a good deal of wind, offering capable upwind performance. The ability to pivot the keel allows the yacht to navigate shallow coastal waters, explore secluded anchorages, and even dry out upright, a freedom rarely found in yachts of this size. This blend of deep-keel sailing efficiency and shallow-draft access makes the Southerly 590 a truly adaptable performer on the water.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Southerly 590 is designed for luxurious long-distance cruising, reflecting its status as a flagship model. As a center-cockpit yacht, it typically features a well-protected helm station and provides for a spacious aft cabin. The design incorporates four guest cabins, meticulously crafted to provide comfort and privacy, making it well-suited for extended voyages with family or guests.

While specific headroom figures are not available, yachts of this size are generally designed with generous standing headroom throughout. Reviews and builder descriptions emphasize a thoughtful and luxurious interior design. The use of high-quality materials and a robust finish is a hallmark of Northshore-built Southerlys, ensuring durability and a pleasant aesthetic. With a substantial freshwater capacity of 275 gallons and ample fuel capacity of 368 gallons, the 590 is well-equipped for self-sufficient cruising over long periods. The layout typically includes well-appointed berths, a spacious salon, a functional galley, and multiple heads, catering to the demands of offshore living while maintaining a high level of comfort.