The South African shipyard, Southern Wind has shared a first look into their fourth yacht in the SW96 series NYUMBA. Launched at the end of 2022 and having completed sea trials in February 2023, this is the first hybrid propulsion sailing yacht completed by the team and was designed for an experienced owner.
Image credit: Southern Wind
NYUMBA features naval architecture by Farr Yacht Design and an interior and exterior design by long-time design partner of Southern Wind, Nauta Design. Massimo Gino, co-founder of Nauta Design shared, “she [is] Southern Wind’s first yacht with hybrid electric propulsion engineered with BAE Systems to be compliant with IMO Tier III regulations. The sleek and simple lines of her GT deck configuration represent an important evolution of the GT deck concept we first introduced on the SW105 Taniwha.”
In addition to their goals of competing in some of the world’s most well-known superyacht regattas, the expert owner wanted design elements to reflect their desire to sail around the world with a short crew. In order to do so, maximizing the exterior space was a key element in the design.
“The owner wanted shorter sunbeds to increase the size of the maneuvering area aft,” continues Gino, “we pushed the mainsheet traveler as far aft as we could to the end of the boom, also reducing loads to the minimum; it’s now aft of the crew companionway, which is styled to look like a mini version of the coach roof, while the twin helm positions have been brought further forward for better visibility. The consoles themselves are mounted on custom-designed supports that resemble the hub of a propeller or thruster – another of the client’s bespoke requests.”
As NYUMBA is Swahili for “home” the yacht interior was completed to reflect the cozy, comfortable atmosphere you would find in your own house. The family intends to spend a lot of time onboard, so deck hatches were installed to allow a bright and airy feel from the natural light pouring in. The SW96 comes with a master and two ensuite guest cabins amidship, with crew quarters in the stern.
For more information on Southern Wind Yachts, please click here.
