Southern Wind has launched Gelliceaux, the first “smart custom” model of its new SW108 Hybrid line. The 33m diesel-electric yacht’s exterior and interior were designed by Nauta Design, with naval architecture by Farr Yacht Design.

“Gelliceaux is the first unit of the new SW108 model which perfectly embraces the Southern Wind concept of smart custom. But being the first of a new series she is in reality very close to being a full custom boat,” says Marco Alberti, CEO, Southern Wind. 

According to Jim Schmicker, Vice President, Farr Yacht Design,  Gelliceaux’s owners were intent on having a hybrid propulsion system on their new yacht. “The production of SW108 begins with a well-canvassed, very powerful arrangement for exceptional performance in light winds, but also up through the wind range,” says Schmicker. “Through several design loops, the sail area and keel weight were fine-tuned to the owners’ goals for performance and also for stability and sail carrying power.” 

To achieve the light wind performance desired by the owners, the sail area was increased by 7% as well as the righting moment by 18% by fitting a larger bulb on the lifting keel compared to a standard SW108, adds Schmicker. In 8 knots of wind, 12 knots of boat speed can be achieved. 

“To achieve the opposing goals of maximizing performance while also having the option of hybrid propulsion, weight savings had to be found in the construction design and materials,” says Yann Dabbadie, Technical Manager, Southern Wind. “In their quest for the optimum setup, the owners have chosen a deep lifting keel (4m– 6.2m) that lowers the centre of gravity by 40 cm whilst keeping control of the overall weight.”

Gelliceaux’s deck plan and interior layout were designed with long-range ocean passages in mind. “The deck is very protective with its lower guest cockpit that will welcome owners, guests and children in a very well-sheltered and safe space behind the coachroof and dodger,” says Christophe Harvey, Project Manager. “The foredeck was also a focus of the designers’ attention with four winches at the mast step to safely handle all manoeuvres and a huge deck locker to store a staysail and a gennaker.”

The yacht’s interior features four cabins – the owner’s cabin is forward in the quietest area of the yacht and three additional guest cabins are amidship. The split-level main saloon features an eight-person dining table to port and a settee along the starboard side that combines the saloon with the TV lounge.

“We were glad to be supported in the process by Sebastian Allebrodt of A2B Marine, the project manager who accompanied the client during the design and construction process,” says Andrea Micheli, Chief Commercial Officer, Southern Wind. “The success of this Smart Custom Yacht hinges on the positive and constructive interaction between the owners’ team and the yard. This unique approach offers the ultimate alternative to a full custom construction.”

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