South Africa-based yacht builder Southern Wind has announced the launch of the 31.24-metre sailing yacht Liberty. The yacht is the fifth unit in the successful SW96 series and has been built for a second-time Southern Wind owner. 
Construction began in July 2022, with Liberty boasting sleek hull lines by Farr Yacht Design, while her exterior and interior design was penned by Nauta Yacht Design. The highly adaptable and multi-purpose design meets all her owner’s needs, with the ability to operate as both a long-range performance cruiser and a competitive racer.
The build team of Liberty was led by Southern Wind’s first female Project Manager, Niki Jennings, who the owner assigned the role of “godmother” to the yacht. “Every yacht we build represents an adventure, and the one with Liberty has been a memorable one,” explained Niki Jennings.
“The brief closely aligned with our own principles of building elegant performance cruisers that are practical and seaworthy. At every point of decision making, these principles were considered.”
The owner and his team worked closely with Southern Wind, providing ongoing feedback from Liberty’s experienced superyacht captain, and advisor who is a professional sail racer. The process resulted in a boat that is defined and built by sailors, for smart sailors.
The hull and decks of Liberty are built in sandwich with a foam core and infused carbon skins for lighter weight and improved sound insulation. To enhance her performance further, she has been fitted with a high modulus carbon mast and boom, as well as an EC6+ carbon rigging.
Liberty features a raised saloon layout, with her sleek coach roof windows providing panoramic views. Her hull portlights also allow for plenty of natural light and are the largest hull portlights in the SW96 series.
Liberty features a three stateroom configuration for up to six guests, with her large owner’s suite situated forward of the main saloon, with ample closet space. The aft crew area includes a large captain’s cabin on portside and a crew cabin on starboard for up to four.
The SW96 yacht has full waterlines with straight end diagonals, a wide, low transom and full forward sections. These, together with a fixed bowsprit, a lifting keel and twin rudder configuration, make her easy to sail and control in a wide range of conditions.
The yacht was christened with Alan Winde, Premier of the Western Cape Province, and Alberto Vecchi, Italian Ambassador in South Africa in attendance. She will now undertake sea trials in Cape Town, before heading to the Mediterranean for her first summer season.
“To the owner and his family, may you make happy memories of your time aboard this yacht. May she bring you joy and adventures. To the captain and his crew, take good care of her, as she will of you. We christen you: Liberty!”