Nautor Swan has struck a fine balance between performance and cruising with the Swan 98. The hull and deck are optimised for speed and handling. The material of choice was epoxy SPRINT pre-preg carbon-fibre skins on a core of Corecell foam, which has kept the overall weight down.

For those interested in competing, a comprehensive race package is available. It includes a square top mainsail with running backstays and a double-length bowsprit with powerful masthead gennakers. To meet a variety of sailing needs, the Swan 98 benefits from a telescopic keel that reduces draft from 4.9 metres to 3.2 metres, allowing access to shallower anchorages. This is a huge advantage for those looking to explore coastal waters.

The Swan 98 is a superyacht that happens to have high performance. Quality and luxury are felt at every turn and a great commitment has been made to making the sailing yacht social and comfortable for lengths of time. Numerous conversational areas are dotted across the deck and, when anchored, the cockpit transforms into a large social lounge with versatile deck sofas or a dining area.

Interior designer Misa Poggi mirrored this philosophy below deck. The main saloon can be configured in several ways for dining, entertaining or lounging. The two adjustable tables can create a dining experience for eight. Two layout configurations are offered, one with the owner’s suite aft and the other forward. Both options create a large suite for the owner and space for a further three guest cabins and separate crew quarters.