Special Report: Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup

In a nostalgic reflection on yacht racing’s evolution, Chris Museler discusses the historical significance and modern-day allure of the Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup.

Originally dominated by boxy, high-performance vessels under the International Offshore Rule (I.O.R.), the event now showcases a fleet of sophisticated, luxurious superyachts.

Irvine Laidlaw, a prominent figure in both business and yachting, commissions a cutting-edge 115-foot carbon fiber superyacht designed by Germán Frers.

This vessel promises to bring a blend of racing prowess and opulent comfort to the 2016 Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup, hosted by the Yacht Club Costa Smeralda.

As the event continues to draw elite competitors and enthusiasts alike, the article underscores the enduring influence of innovative design and competitive spirit in the world of yachting.

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Read source (Italian version)

Swan returns to the “small”: here is the new 54-foot swan

June 24, 2015 | Il Giormnalle della Vela

A new 54-footer holds special significance for the Finnish shipyard: German Frers designs the smallest hull in the Swan Line range, which extends up to 115 feet.

A return to the 50-foot range that reignites the dreams of many owners.
The philosophy is that of a bluewater yacht designed to sail in any condition, without sacrificing the elegance that is surely the most distinctive feature of the Scandinavian shipyard.

The new 54-footer excites the yard’s president,

“When our company’s founder Pekka Koskenkyla built the first Swan 36, he also defined the principles of the shipyard: elegance, performance, reliability, attention to detail, and timeless design. We are proud to build boats that are loved by their owners, because these owners are at the center of our company.”

Leonardo Ferragamo

The new Swan 54 features a displacement hull and a lead keel that offers variable draft (from 2.44 to 1.4 meters). The sail plan is designed to ensure maximum performance, easily managed with a generous foretriangle.

Deck layout

Designed to ensure easy maneuverability even with a reduced crew, without forgetting the areas dedicated to relaxation on board. A large swim platform opens at the stern with direct access to the water for pleasant swims at anchor.

All hatches are flush-mounted and adequately sized to ensure proper ventilation and light below deck. An option to install four windows in the hull is avalable.

The coachroof mounts the genoa tracks and directs the sheets directly to the winches, leaving the side decks clear.

Four electric winches on the twin steering system facilitate maneuvers with a reduced crew.

Ample storage spaces.

A sail locker forward and two generous lockers, one on the starboard and one aft.

The boat’s interior, in oak, has been designed to ensure maximum comfort for long voyages.

• The standard layout includes three double cabins:
• A forward owner’s cabin.
• A central cabin.
• An aft cabin.

The engine room/storage space houses a generator and washer, which can convert into a crew cabin if needed.

The galley, positioned traditionally on the right side next to the staircase in the boat’s most stable area, is sized for a 54-footer, enabling easy and comfortable cooking even while sailing.

The Hallberg-Rassy 64, designed as a flagship for yachting enthusiasts, stands out as a blue water cruiser suitable for family crews.

Key features include an expansive aft deck with 8.6 cubic meters of locker space capable of storing a RIB dinghy. A large hydraulic bathing platform and an optional retractable gangway contribute to its functional comfort.

The deck is noted for its clean, uncluttered layout, featuring flush-mounted skylights and hatches. A sun deck integrates into the aft cabin roof, and a concealed anchor winch. Options like hydraulic under-deck furlers for the cutterstay and genoa enhance its versatility.

Go to Hallberg-Rassy for a full description and images

El astillero de los sueños

Entramos en los dominios de Swan, la casa finlandesa donde nacen los ‘Rolls-Royce’ del mar. Experimentadas manos producen aquí los veleros más preciados del planeta

Quino Petit | El País Semanal | 08 oct 2014

Con el torso desnudo y una toalla anudada alrededor de la cintura, Enrico Chieffi, de 51 años, excampeón del mundo de la clase Star de vela ligera y consejero delegado de Swan, blande una gélida cerveza al salir de una humeante sauna finlandesa a última hora de la tarde. “Slow life is a good life”, dice con su marcado acento italiano. Una vida tranquila es una buena vida. La frase que rubrica la escena podría servir como resumen del espíritu de la firma que lidera bajo la presidencia de su compatriota y amigo Leonardo Ferragamo desde que este último se hizo con el control de la compañía en 1998.

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We enter the realm of Swan, the Finnish company where the ‘Rolls-Royces’ of the sea are born. Experienced hands produce the most prized sailboats on the planet here.

With a bare torso and a towel knotted around his waist, Enrico Chieffi, 51, former world champion of the Star class in dinghy sailing and CEO of Swan, wields an icy beer as he exits a steaming Finnish sauna late in the afternoon. “Slow life is a good life,” he says with his distinctive Italian accent. A quiet life is a good life. The phrase that concludes the scene could serve as a summary of the spirit of the company he leads under the presidency of his compatriot and friend Leonardo Ferragamo since the latter took control of the company in 1998.

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By Emma Bamford – August 23, 2015

“Sailing Today has announced the winners of its inaugural awards, recognizing excellence in the marine industry and cruising world.

Legendary Argentinian yacht designer Germán Frers received the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award, celebrated for his stunning yacht designs and profound influence on modern yacht design.
Known for his work with renowned brands like Swan, Hallberg-Rassy, and Wally, Frers continues to innovate even in his seventies. This accolade, chosen by an expert editorial panel, highlights his enduring relevance and contribution to the yachting community.”

Read the full article on Sailing Today’s website