Swan 47-2 S&S CB Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Swan 47-2 CB are defined by its remarkable balance and "sea-kindliness," a hallmark of Olin Stephens' design philosophy. Even with the centerboard configuration, the yacht retains a heavy displacement profile that allows it to power through a chop with minimal fuss. When the board is fully extended, the yacht draws nearly 9.5 feet, providing the lateral resistance necessary for competitive upwind performance that rivals its deep-keel siblings. Conversely, with the board retracted, the draft is reduced to approximately 5.8 feet, an extraordinary feat for a yacht of this waterline length.

Handling is characterized by a heavy, positive feel at the helm. Because the 47-2 utilizes a skeg-hung rudder, it tracks with exceptional stability, making it a favorite for long-distance shorthanded passages. While the IOR influence is visible in its pinched ends and tumblehome hull shape, the Swan 47 avoids the "twitchy" downwind behavior of lighter racing machines of its era. Owners often report that the boat feels most at home in 15–20 knots of breeze, where its high righting moment—aided by a significant internal ballast package—allows it to stand up to its large sail plan.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Swan 47-2 is a masterclass in traditional Finnish joinery, utilizing hand-rubbed Burmese teak throughout. The "47-2" designation typically refers to the Mark II evolution of the model, which often incorporated refinements in the cabin layout and deck geometry compared to the earliest hulls. The layout is centered around a massive salon featuring a U-shaped settee and a large dining table, designed for offshore security and social comfort.

The primary variation in the 47-2 involves the companionway and aft cabin arrangement. Some models feature a bridge deck with a single companionway, while others utilized the "two-entrance" system common on larger S&S Swans, providing private access to the aft owner’s stateroom. This aft cabin is a standout feature, typically offering a double and a single berth, providing versatility during passages. The galley is traditionally positioned to port, optimized for use at sea with deep sinks and ample bracing points. Headroom is generous, exceeding 6’3” in most of the main cabin, which was a significant selling point during its production run.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Swan 47 occupies a vaulted place in nautical literature and classic yacht circles. It is frequently highlighted by the S&S Swan Association as one of the most successful production designs ever to emerge from the Sparkman & Stephens office. The model’s reputation as the "ultimate cruiser" has seen it featured in numerous retrospectives by Yachting Monthly and Sail Magazine, where it is often used as the benchmark for comparing modern "performance cruisers" against the robust standards of the 1970s.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Swan 47-2 CB must account for the complexities of a vintage vessel built to extremely high standards.

• Centerboard Mechanism: The CB variant introduces a pivot bolt and lifting cable system. These must be inspected for corrosion or wear, as a failure of the lifting pennant can result in the board being stuck in the down position.
• Teak Decks: Most Swan 47s were built with thick teak decks screwed into the fiberglass sub-deck. Over decades, these screws can allow moisture into the core. A thorough moisture meter test of the deck is mandatory.
• Rod Rigging: Many Swans of this era were equipped with Navtec rod rigging. If the rigging is older than 10-12 years, it generally requires a full replacement or a professional "dye-test" for fractures, as rod rigging fails without the visible warning signs of wire.
• Chainplates: Given the age of the fleet, the stainless steel chainplates where they pass through the deck should be inspected for crevice corrosion.
• Osmosis: While Nautor hulls are notoriously robust, some hulls from this period have shown signs of osmotic blistering. A hull survey is essential to determine if a bottom peel or epoxy treatment has been performed.

Community & Resources

The most vital resource for any owner is the S&S Swan Association, a dedicated organization that maintains a global registry, technical wikis, and hosts the prestigious S&S Swan Rendezvous in the Mediterranean. This group provides access to original blueprints and advice on sourcing original Nautor parts.

The Verdict

The Swan 47-2 S&S CB is a "connoisseur’s yacht," offering a rare blend of shallow-water versatility and blue-water pedigree. It remains a blue-chip investment in the brokerage market for those who value build quality over modern interior volume.

Pros:

• Exceptional "go-anywhere" draft flexibility with the centerboard system.
• World-class construction standards that remain superior to many modern production boats.
• Timeless aesthetic appeal and high resale value.
• Superb heavy-weather tracking and comfort.

Cons:

• The centerboard trunk and mechanism require additional long-term maintenance.
• High maintenance costs associated with vintage teak decks and rod rigging.
• Interior volume is lower than modern 47-footers due to the narrow IOR-style beam.