For decades, Southerly Yachts has stood as a distinguished name in the British yachting landscape, celebrated particularly for its pioneering variable draft keel technology. Far from a recent inception, this esteemed brand has a rich history rooted in ingenious design and a commitment to versatile cruising, a narrative that far predates the recent revival of the name.
The Origin Story
The story of Southerly Yachts began in the early 1970s under the stewardship of the Northshore Shipyard, nestled in the picturesque setting of Itchenor, West Sussex. Brian Moffat, the visionary behind Northshore, owned two shipyards in Havant and Itchenor, laying the groundwork for a future of distinctive yacht building. The initial foray into what would become the renowned Southerly range was marked by the Southerly 28, a vessel that set the stage for a line of innovative lifting keel cruisers. However, it was the introduction of the groundbreaking "swing keel" concept in 1978, notably with the Southerly 105, that truly defined the brand's unique identity, offering an unprecedented degree of access to shallow waters.
History and Evolution
From 1975 to 2014, Southerly Yachts were consistently developed and built at the Northshore Shipyard in Chichester Harbour. During this period, the range expanded significantly, encompassing yachts from 32ft to an impressive 57ft. Over these decades, Southerly established a dedicated customer base, with yacht enthusiasts worldwide seeking their distinctive designs.
Sadly, production at Northshore ceased in 2014. However, the beloved brand was not destined to disappear. In a pivotal moment for its legacy, Southerly Yachts was acquired and revived by Concept Yachts, an international marine contractor. This acquisition, with operations now based in Marchwood, near Southampton, has breathed new life into the brand, ensuring the continuation of its heritage.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Southerly Yachts' reputation in the sailing world is intrinsically linked to its signature variable draft keel, often referred to as a lifting or swing keel. This ingenious system allows the keel to be raised, significantly reducing the boat's draft and enabling access to shallower anchorages, rivers, and coastal areas often inaccessible to fixed-keel yachts. This adaptability offers owners unparalleled freedom and versatility to explore diverse cruising grounds.
Beyond the innovative keel, Southerly yachts are renowned for their high-quality construction and a design philosophy focused on comfortable, capable bluewater cruising. A hallmark of many Southerly models is the light-filled, raised saloon, which creates a welcoming and spacious interior, ideal for entertaining or simply relaxing with panoramic views. While many naval architects have contributed to the fleet over the years, Stephen Jones is notably credited with designs that further enhance the brand's trademark technology.
Iconic Models and Legacy
Throughout its history, Southerly has produced a number of significant and successful models that have cemented its place in the marine industry. The early Southerly 28 was foundational, while the Southerly 105 truly pioneered the swing keel in the range. Other widely recognized and sought-after models include the Southerly 115, 135, 420, 42RST, and 47. More recently, the brand has introduced models such as the Southerly 480 and 580. The enduring popularity of these vessels is evident in the fact that there are over 900 to 1100 Southerly Yacht owners worldwide.
The continuous evolution of the Southerly range has been built on a principle of refinement, with new models often incorporating the best elements of their predecessors while adding modern advancements. This commitment to quality and innovation has fostered a strong community of owners who value the unique capabilities and comfortable cruising experience that a Southerly offers.
The Builder Today
Today, Southerly Yachts operates under the ownership of Concept Yachts, with construction taking place at their dedicated facility in Marchwood, close to Southampton. Concept Yachts leverages its highly experienced workforce to continue building the much-loved British brand of swing keel blue water sailing cruisers.
The modern Southerly yachts continue to appeal to discerning sailors who desire the ability to explore extensively, combining excellent sailing performance with the unique advantage of variable draft. The ownership experience is enriched by the shared passion within the Southerly community, who appreciate the blend of robust British craftsmanship, bluewater capability, and the freedom afforded by the iconic swing keel. Southerly Yachts continues its legacy, providing yachts that offer sailing without limits.
