With the new Swan 73, the Finnish shipyard Nautor Swan is giving itself a nice birthday present for its 60th anniversary. With the 22.47 metre-long Slup, the company now under the umbrella of Sanlorenzo boatbuilders have built the first yacht in the 22-metre segment for 20 years. The project is being developed at the Boatbuilding Technology Centre in Pietarsaari, Finland, where both the Swan and Maxi Swan ranges are built. The development is the responsibility of Nautor Swan's New Product Development Division, which has been established as a strategic pillar for the brand's growth under Sanlorenzo. The Swan 73 is positioned below the maxi segment and offers comparable comfort combined with better usability with a smaller crew and more versatility. The concept is aimed at owners who do not want to choose between performance sailing and cruising comfort. The yacht reaches speeds of over 20 knots in suitable conditions and adapts to different usage scenarios - from calm anchor bays to demanding sailing manoeuvres during regattas.
Hull lines and construction by Germán Frers
The design was created by Germán Frers, who has been working with Nautor Swan for over four decades. The hull is a GRP sandwich construction using the vacuum infusion process with localised carbon reinforcements in the hull and deck. The infusion process has been used by the shipyard for many years and ensures optimum material penetration of the resin. The hull lines are slim and efficient, the proportions balanced. The sail plan ensures responsiveness and control in all conditions. The design delivers speed, stability and intuitive handling at the helm - for both offshore cruising and performance sailing. The design displaces 38.8 tonnes empty with a ballast of 8,500 kilograms (ballast ratio 22 percent). The upwind sail area is said to be 895 square metres; downwind, the owner is using up to 1283 square metres of sail laminate. More precise details on the sail sizes will be published shortly. The shipyard is also currently keeping a lid on the starting price.
Asymmetrical deck concept by Luca Ardizio
Swan has adopted a strategic approach to the exterior design: gradual development rather than revolutionary changes. Antonio Santella, Senior Advisor of the New Product Development Division, explains: "From the very first designs, Luca Ardizio's aim was to create an exterior line that reflects the clarity of Germán Frers' hulls, combining elegance and fluidity with a refined balance of form, proportion and performance." Every element on deck has been optimised for efficient and intuitive handling under sail. The layout enables smooth operation even with a small crew. Two steering wheels offer the best view of the sails and precise control. Characteristic features include the offset companionway, an asymmetrical cockpit and seamlessly integrated halyards and sheets. The interior layout is variable with a galley and crew area on the port side as well as configurations with three or four guest cabins. Flexible arrangements in the foredeck allow for either an extended owner's bathroom or a walk-in wardrobe.
Four deck areas for different uses
The generously proportioned deck is divided into four separate areas. The foredeck offers a private sunbed, optionally shaded by an Arabic tent, with the option of accommodating a large tender. The guest cockpit forms the centrepiece of the concept - a sheltered space that combines indoor and outdoor areas. A special feature within the Swan range is the optional fixed bimini, which transforms the area into a panoramic veranda or, if required, a fully enclosed and air-conditioned environment - a nautical conservatory that blends in with the yacht's timeless profile. Further aft, the sailing cockpit focuses on performance with twin steering wheels, winches and control systems for effortless short-handed cruising. At the stern, the beach club area offers a bathing platform, which can be extended on request, and a spacious tender garage for a 2.80 metre dinghy and additional equipment.
Interior design by Blend Studio
Blend Studio developed an interior concept for the Swan 73 that is based on a contemporary reinterpretation of the brand language. Founder Cecilia Perotti explains: "The project builds on the tradition of Swan yachts and reinterprets it from a contemporary perspective. The result is a space characterised by smooth transitions, curved shapes and a harmonious flow." In addition to the Swan decor options "Spirit of Finland", "Timeless Classic", "Traditional Navy" and "Wine Cowes", a customised configuration has been introduced to create a warm atmosphere. Canaletto walnut wood adds depth and richness, while light-coloured fabrics, wall finishes and materials enhance brightness and tactile comfort. The result is an interior that is both elegant and relaxing.
Technical equipment and keel options of the Swan 73
The Swan 73 offers two keel configurations: The standard keel achieves a draught of 3.20 metres, while the telescopic keel varies between 2.80 and 4.25 metres. The hull length is 22.47 metres and the overall length is 23.67 metres. The waterline length is 21.23 metres with a width of 6.12 metres. It is powered by a Yanmar 4LV195 with 143 kilowatts or 195 hp.
Technical data:
Dimensions:
- Hull length: 22.47 metres
- Overall length: 23.67 metres
- Waterline length: 21.23 metres
- Width: 6.12 metres
- Standard keel: 3.20 metres
- Telescopic keel: 2.80 to 4.25 metres
- Displacement (empty): 38,800 kilograms
- Ballast: 8,500 kilograms
- Ballast content: 22 %
- Engine: Yanmar 4LV195
- Power: 143 kilowatts / 195 hp
- Amwind sail area: 895 m2
Martin Hager
Editor in Chief YACHT
