Nautor Swan Launches Swan 88 at BTC Yard Open Days

Nautor Swan has launched the highly anticipated Swan 88, a sailing yacht that represents a new pinnacle in design, technology, and sustainability at their recent BTC Yard Open Days in Pietarsaari. This new model, the first from the iconic Finnish shipyard to offer hybrid electric propulsion, marks a significant milestone in the brand’s 58-year history.

Alongside the launch of the Swan 88, the ClubSwan 43, the ‘pocket rocket’ ClubSwan 28 and other exciting projects under construction were also presented. This includes the flagship Swan 128, the Swan 80 and the Swan 51, the latest addition to the Swan range.

Giovanni Pomati, CEO of Nautor Group, provides an insightful overview of the company’s current status: “June always marks a special moment here at the yard. With an active order portfolio exceeding 150 million euros, we are set to deliver 30 yachts by October. Already, 15 of these yachts have sailed away to their home ports in the past few weeks. This period is very electrifying for us, both intense and rewarding. We have launched three Maxis and have four more under construction. Our range includes 23 models, both sailing and power yachts, six of which are brand new models. I don’t think we could be more proud, excited, and happy!”

Notably, the Swan 88 has been designed as an entry model into the world of Swan Maxi yachts, offering efficient management costs, simplified regulatory compliance, and ease of obtaining charter certification. The yard presented two versions of the Swan 88 – hull no. 1, with hybrid propulsion in cooperation with Torqeedo, and Swan 88 hull no. 2 with impressive performance upgrades. The design involved a collaboration between Germán Frers, Misa Poggi, and Lucio Micheletti.

Swan 88 “DreamCatcher” is the first-of-its-kind hybrid-electric maxi yacht, integrating advanced technology and sustainable design. She features a fully integrated Deep Blue system by Torqeedo, the world leader in electric and hybrid propulsion. This 88-foot yacht is powered by a custom-developed 120 kW electric drive system and 160 kWh of energy storage, enabling silent motoring at a maximum speed of 11.4 knots. The Deep Blue system not only powers the yacht’s propulsion but also centrally manages all onboard systems and amenities, ensuring intuitive operation and enhanced sustainability.

Seamless Integration and Performance

Designed through a collaborative effort between Torqeedo, Nautor Swan, and Navico, the Swan 88‘s controls are seamlessly integrated into the yacht’s multifunctional displays. The 120 kW Deep Blue inboard motor, engineered by Torqeedo, drives a controllable-pitch propeller, allowing for a smooth transition between sailing and motoring modes. This advanced system delivers high torque and thrust while under power, and minimizes drag for optimal sailing performance.

Renewable Energy and Efficiency

In hydrogeneration mode, the Deep Blue system’s advanced algorithms continuously monitor and adjust performance, providing renewable, wind-powered energy with minimal impact on sailing speed. At 8 knots, the system generates enough power to maintain self-sufficiency, and its integrated 22 kW onboard charger enables easy overnight charging via shore power. Additionally, two lightweight 45 kW generators extend the yacht’s motoring range to over 2,000 nautical miles and can recharge the battery bank in less than 1.5 hours, with significantly reduced onboard noise.

Luxury and Sustainability

Luxury yachts like the Swan 88 require significant power for their electronic equipment and amenities. The Deep Blue energy management system not only generates green power while sailing but also manages and delivers that energy to all onboard systems. The 160 kWh battery bank powers the emission-free propulsion system and all hotel battery banks, hydraulics, and amenities, ensuring silent living onboard for up to 12 hours. The system includes DC/DC converters to keep the yacht’s 24-volt electrical system and electronics online, and a 22 kW DC/AC inverter for power-hungry amenities like air conditioning, ovens, and washing machines.

Groundbreaking Technology

Developed by Torqeedo’s Customized Solutions team, the technology aboard the Swan 88 “DreamCatcher” sets a new benchmark for the industry. “The Swan 88 is the culmination of three years of collaboration between Nautor Swan and Torqeedo’s Customized Solutions team,” said Matthias Vogel, senior vice president of the Customized Solutions business unit for Torqeedo GmbH. “It proves that Deep Blue can achieve similar range and performance as a combustion engine-powered yacht and even be fully independent under good sailing conditions.”

Looking to the Future

The Swan 88‘s ability to travel 100% emission-free guarantees future access to nature reserves and other pristine, regulated waters where combustion-powered vessels may not be permitted. With “DreamCatcher,” Nautor Swan is bringing something truly unique to the maxi yacht segment, and Torqeedo is honored to be their electrification partner.

The Swan 88 will make its debut at the Cannes Yachting Festival and Monaco Yacht Show in the fall.

Please contact us at [email protected] for availability of Swan yachts in Asia.