Southerly 57 RS Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Southerly 57 RS are defined by its Ed Dubois hull, which balances a high-volume cruising interior with a sophisticated underwater profile. With the keel fully deployed to its 3.12-meter (10’3”) depth, the yacht exhibits the pointing ability and stiffness of a dedicated racing cruiser. The displacement, which approaches 30 tons when loaded, provides a momentum-driven "sea-kindliness" that allows the 57 RS to punch through head seas with minimal slamming. According to editorial assessments in Yachting World, the yacht maintains impressive control thanks to its twin-rudder configuration. These rudders are essential for a variable-draft vessel, as they remain deeply immersed and effective even when the boat is heeled, providing a "locked-in" feel that single-rudder boats of this beam often lack.

The sail plan is typically configured for short-handed sailing, featuring a self-tacking jib for ease of tacking in confined waters and a large reaching sail on a furler for light-air performance. The RS designation ensures that the helm positions are ergonomically optimized for visibility, though the sheer scale of the vessel means it relies heavily on powered winches and thrusters for low-speed maneuvering.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The "Raised Saloon" layout is the defining interior feature, offering 270-degree panoramic views from the seating area, a rarity in yachts designed for serious offshore work. This elevated floorboard allows for the placement of large tanks and heavy machinery low and central in the hull, further aiding stability. The joinery, often finished in American cherry or light oak, reflects the premium positioning of the Discovery Yachts era.

The 57 RS was typically offered in three or four-cabin configurations. The most popular arrangement features a palatial master suite aft, taking full advantage of the hull's 5.20-meter beam, and a VIP guest cabin forward. A notable sibling variant is the standard Southerly 57, which shares the same hull and keel logic but may feature subtle differences in cockpit ergonomics and interior trim levels depending on the specific build year. While the 57 RS focuses on the deck saloon experience, the lineage of this hull eventually informed aspects of the Discovery 58, which prioritized a fixed keel or different ballasting arrangements for owners not requiring the swing-keel versatility.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Southerly 57 RS gained significant international attention during its launch phase, notably being featured as a flagship of British boatbuilding at the Southampton and Dusseldorf boat shows. It has been a frequent subject of long-distance cruising documentaries on digital platforms, where owners showcase the unique advantage of the swing keel in locations like the Bahamas or the French canals. The model’s engineering was also highlighted in technical features by Yachting Monthly, focusing on the evolution of variable-draft technology in large luxury yachts.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers must approach the Southerly 57 RS with a focus on its complex mechanical systems.

• Swing Keel Hydraulics: The keel is operated by a massive hydraulic ram. This system requires meticulous maintenance, including checking the integrity of the hydraulic lines and the pivot pin. Any "clunking" sounds when the keel is partially deployed should be investigated immediately.
• Grounding Plate and Pennants: While the yacht is designed to sit on its own bottom, the cast-iron grounding plate is susceptible to corrosion if the epoxy coating is breached. Additionally, the stainless steel pennants (cables) that act as backups for the keel should be replaced according to the manufacturer's schedule.
• Teak Deck Integrity: Many 57 RS models were delivered with full teak decks. At this age, buyers should check for thinning timber or failing caulk joints, particularly around the raised saloon windows where leaks can damage the interior joinery.
• Electrical Load Management: Given the reliance on electric winches, furling systems, and the keel pump, the battery banks and charging systems (including the generator) must be in peak condition to ensure safe operation during short-handed passages.

Community & Resources

Owners of the 57 RS are supported by the Southerly Owners Association (SOA), a highly active group that provides technical archives and owner-sourced solutions for the specific challenges of variable-draft maintenance. Additionally, since the brand's integration into the Discovery Yachts Group, technical support can often be sourced through the legacy knowledge base maintained by the shipwrights in Plymouth.

The Verdict

The Southerly 57 RS is a rare breed of yacht that offers the luxury and safety of a 60-foot bluewater cruiser with the coastal access of a small dinghy.

Pros:

• Unrivaled Versatility: The 3’6” minimum draft allows for entry into shallow harbors and hurricane holes.
• Dubois Pedigree: Exceptional windward performance and stability when the keel is fully lowered.
• Panoramic Living: The raised saloon provides a bright, airy interior with excellent visibility.
• Robust Build: Engineered for heavy-weather ocean crossings with a high-quality British finish.

Cons:

• Mechanical Complexity: The swing-keel mechanism requires more maintenance than a traditional fixed keel.
• Weight: The heavy grounding plate makes the boat less "lively" in very light airs compared to lighter cruising yachts.
• Price Point: High build quality and complex engineering maintain high resale values, making it a significant investment.