Southern Wind sailing yacht Sorceress delivered to owner

The first vessel in Southern Wind Shipyard’s new mini-series of cruiser-racers has been delivered to her owner. Launched in April this year, the 29.23-metre Sorceress was built for a passionate yachtsman and features an interior and exterior design from Nauta Yachts.

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“SW96 #01 represents the first unit in the brand new SW96 mini-series,” says Willy Persico, founder and CEO of the South African Southern Wind Shipyard. “Her owner was looking for a yacht to use in both coastal and transoceanic races and for bluewater cruises. He wanted a very low displacement and all the comforts typical of a cruising yacht.”

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Sorceress has lightship displacement of 56.700 kg for excellent speed in light winds and a manageable rig size. Jim Schmicker, vice president of Farr Yacht Design, responsible for the project’s naval architecture, proudly explains: “The goal was to achieve an entirely new level of design, incorporating features of the highest performance yachts such as wide transoms, twin rudders and ample sail area and stability, melded with the well-known characteristics of our previous Southern Wind designs like easy handling, excellent balance, comfortable ride and a solid feeling of seaworthiness.”

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SW96 represents a significant step forward from previous designs in both the visual aspects of style and in measurable levels of performance. Schmicker continues: “The final hull shape balances a visually stunning style with numerous technical achievements including low drag, minimal longitudinal trim with heel, excellent hydro-aero interaction, nimble and responsive steering and minimized slamming. The SW96 performs beautifully, handles well and rides comfortably throughout the typical heel range with easily achieved performance targets.”

Sorceress will make her debut at the 2017 edition of the Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup in Porto Cervo in September and will be displayed as a world première at the forthcoming Monaco Yacht Show. Her owner will sail his brand new SW96 on her maiden voyage together with crew and friends.

Southern Wind is currently building the second unit of the SW96 series, scheduled for launch early next year.

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