Last week, under sunny skies and a brisk Cape Town breeze, the SW108#02 Kiboko 4 officially entered the water, marking a significant chapter for Southern Wind Shipyard and her experienced owner. This yacht, the fourth Southern Wind vessel commissioned by the owner, reflects a new evolution in performance, aesthetics, and design innovation.
The owner, drawing from extensive experience with his three previous yachts, emphasized that Kiboko 4 represents a leap forward. "This yacht builds on the strengths of my earlier boats while embracing Southern Wind’s ongoing advancements. With features like a lifting keel, an enhanced sail plan, and a performance mast and rigging package, she’s designed to excel in competitive regattas. The dark hull and mast give her a dynamic and bold character, a departure from my earlier designs."
Crafted with insights from Nauta Design and Farr Yacht Design, Kiboko 4 reflects the Smart Custom philosophy that distinguishes Southern Wind yachts. CEO Marco Alberti highlighted the yard’s priorities in crafting this vessel: “Weight optimization, performance, and a seamless blend of aesthetics and functionality defined our approach. Her Mediterranean-inspired interiors maintain the light, open ambiance that Southern Wind yachts are known for.”
As a follow-up to her sistership Gelliceaux, Kiboko 4 maintains individuality while building on a successful foundation. The first SW108 demonstrated exceptional capabilities, winning the St. Barths Bucket Regatta and earning the ‘Best Yacht in the 24-30m Range’ award at the ISS Awards. The second hull in the series carries forward this legacy while incorporating unique elements tailored to the owner’s vision.
The collaboration extended beyond the design studio to the yacht’s captain, whose hands-on involvement throughout the build played a crucial role in refining systems and mechanical details. This close partnership ensured the yacht was aligned with the owner’s specific expectations and operational needs.
Looking ahead, Kiboko 4 is set to embark on a diverse sailing itinerary. The owner envisions Mediterranean summers, an Atlantic crossing, and Caribbean exploration, with dreams of someday venturing to the coast of Maine.
With Kiboko 4, Southern Wind demonstrates its ability to balance technical expertise with personalized design, creating a yacht that reflects both the yard’s craftsmanship and the owner’s passion for sailing.
