Beschreibung
NAUTOR SWAN 80FD (Hull 80-104) – ‘ Dark Horse’
Offered at €3,700,000 (VAT Paid) | Currently Lying in Barcelona, Spain
„Dark Horse“ is the final and most meticulously optimised Swan 80 Flush Deck constructed by Nautor Swan, delivered in October 2013. She represents a culmination of the yard’s renowned expertise, further enhanced by the vision of her initial owner – a distinguished American racing yachtsman. His exacting requirements led to extensive weight and usability studies, resulting in a vessel approximately 2 tons lighter than the standard model, offering exceptional responsiveness and sailing dynamics.
Following a comprehensive refit undertaken over the past 2-3 years, „Dark Horse“ is presented in outstanding condition. She is a genuinely dual-purpose yacht, engineered with precision to excel in competitive regattas whilst also providing luxurious comfort for extended cruising.
Onboard, modern technology is seamlessly integrated with Nautor Swan’s timeless design. The yacht features a fully digital control system, operated via a touch panel PC in the galley – identical to those on the newest Swan models, with a dedicated backup on the navigation PC. Analogue gauges have been entirely superseded.
The B&G H5000 electronics suite provides comprehensive data, while a robust full Mastervolt lithium battery system powers the vessel’s services. This allows for silent operation for approximately 2-3 days, assuming natural ventilation. The generator is primarily reserved for the Air Conditioning or when high demand for hydraulic power is anticipated, such as during regattas via the PTO pump. All battery chargers and inverters are, naturally, the latest Mastervolt units.
Key Attributes & Distinguishing Features:
- Optimised Deck Layout & Hardware:
- The signature Swan flush deck is remarkably clean and efficient, ensuring unobstructed movement – a distinct advantage for performance sailing.
- Key features include a main traveller, thoughtfully placed deflectors around aft winches and in the pit (facilitating optimal crew weight distribution), and numerous fittings for a versatile sail inventory.
- The yacht is extensively equipped with full carbon and titanium deck hardware, complemented by upgraded, large-dimension hydraulic carbon winches.
- Advanced Rig Configuration & Recent Service:
- A high-modulus carbon fibre Hall Spars mast and V-boom are paired with Future Fibres EC6 carbon rigging (all rig cables were upgraded by the current owner).
- Approximately two years ago, the mast was unstepped for a thorough service, including a full repaint of the carbon clear coat. The EC6 cables were returned to the factory for inspection and re-braiding and now benefit from a 10-year warranty with circa 8 years remaining.
- The Reckman hydraulic jib furler was also removed and underwent a full factory service.
- Prior to last summer, a detailed rig engineering study was conducted with Hall Spars. This involved rebuilding a 3D CAD model of the rig and optimising the mast tune (rake, pre-bend, base position). A clear, concise tuning guide for various wind conditions is now available.
- The main sail track incorporates four robust titanium locking points for reefing and full hoist, alongside an integrated 2:1 Dyneema and titanium inhauler system for precise headsail trim.
- Proven Racing Pedigree & Performance Characteristics:
- „Dark Horse“ has a distinguished racing record, with class wins in events such as the Fort Lauderdale to Palm Beach race and Ibiza Joy Sail.
- Her hull was 3D scanned, followed by comprehensive weight and stability analyses, resulting in her current optimisation for ORCi (and ORC Superyacht) competition.
- It is noteworthy that her current shallow draft keel (3.30m / 10.80ft – advantageous for cruising areas like the Caribbean and US East Coast) is very close to optimal for competitive rating. Furthermore, the manufacturer holds a spare 4.2m keel available for separate purchase should a deeper draft be preferred.
- Superior Construction & Refined Interior:
- Constructed using SPRINT/pre-preg carbon fibre with a Corecell sandwich core, „Dark Horse“ possesses an exceptionally light, stiff, and responsive hull, reflecting Nautor Swan’s commitment to engineering excellence.
- The spacious and light-filled interior provides accommodation in three well-appointed double guest cabins, each with Pullman berths and private ensuite facilities. Separate crew quarters are located forward, alongside a dedicated office with an additional Pullman berth.
- The interior is elegantly finished in satin hand-rubbed teak, complemented by premium Dorn Bracht fittings, custom leather detailing, and a comprehensively equipped galley featuring Miele appliances.
- Exceptional Maintenance & Turnkey Presentation:
- Benefitting from annual maintenance programmes with performed directly with Nautor Swan Global Service, „Dark Horse“ has received continuous upgrades and meticulous care from her full-time professional crew.
- All hydraulic and mechanical systems have been consistently serviced and updated as required.
- Significant Value:
- Offered at €3,700,000 (VAT paid), this includes a 4.2m Highfield tender with a 50hp Honda outboard, an extensive inventory of racing and cruising sails, a comprehensive list of spares, and a dedicated 40ft High Cube container for storage.
