Nautor Swan has masterfully combined functional yacht design with the romance of the open sea, bringing this vision to life with the Swan 88. True to its name, Dreamcatcher captures this spirit, delivering the signature elegance and craftsmanship for which Nautor Swan is renowned. At first glance, its refined design exudes timeless sophistication, but a closer look reveals a seamless blend of tradition and innovation. Dreamcatcher is a versatile yacht designed to delight both sailors and charter guests. With the functionality of a superyacht and the performance of a world-class sailing vessel, the Swan 88 confidently enters the luxury yacht market, commanding attention and admiration.
The Main Deck
The aft section boasts three distinct areas: the recessed cockpit, dual helms, and a transforming platform. Sailboat design is an art, and it is no easy feat to create functional yet attractive systems, such as the dedicated beach platform controlled by hydraulics. This thoughtful feature transforms the stern into an accessible way to access the tender, blurring the line between the alluring waters and life aboard. The platform allows access to the vessel’s garage, creating safe storage for crew access.
The guest cockpit is well thought out and delivers an abundance of options through its elegant, modern design. A newly evolved coachroof, inspired by maxi yachts, not only integrates a sprayhood for additional protection but also maintains the sleek, streamlined aesthetic.
Modular benches allow for an array of seating configurations, easily transforming the space from intimate place to lounge to a formal dining setup. It is clear that every detail is designed for charter in mind; adaptable and attractive.
The bow-to-stern teak decking, paired with stainless steel fixtures, evokes the timeless elegance expected from Nautor Swan, all while being highly durable in the harsh marine environment. Dreamcatcher’s deck is a playground for the enthusiastic sailor with the ability to command from the dual helms. The midship benches and forward deck allow for a place for true relaxation for those with a more laissez-faire approach.
Interiors
The spacious interior of the Swan 88 is designed for functionality, but that doesn’t take away from the stunning, timeless interior finishes and feel that Natour Swan has perfected over the years. There are no compromises here; Dreamcatcher’s warm wood drenches the interior with the comfort that makes you feel at home, no matter where the anchor is set. Large windows and hull ports flood the spaces with natural light, creating a serene and inviting atmosphere. The atrium-style companionway demands attention, with its staircase leading from the cockpit to the salon, creating a sense of grandiosity of a much larger yacht. The vessel’s interior designer, Misa Poggi, states that “when you walk onto a boat, you should walk into a very comfortable, harmonious and magical place,” and it is clear that Poggi’s vision was achieved with the Swan 88.
Despite being a sailing vessel, space is not compromised, and the standard layout features four ensuite cabins, an owner’s cabin and crew quarters. A highlight of the Swan 88 is the owner’s cabin, which is private, towards the bow of the yacht, complete with a walk-around bed for easy access and a luxury ensuite to ensure ultimate comfort and space. The standard layout, like Dreamcatcher’s, accommodates another stateroom, but if chosen, it can be turned into a lounge or TV room instead. Pullman berths in the third and fourth guest rooms provide flexibility for guest arrangement. The aft of the yacht, accessible by a dedicated companionway, is where the crew berths are tucked away, just aft of the impressive galley and crew mess. This thoughtful and customizable design of the Swan 88 is what sets this yacht apart.
The best of both power systems
Despite being a sailboat that performs well, at the heart of every sailing yacht is a power system that allows for flexibility in both power consumption and vessel control. Dreamcatcher is equipped with the Deep Blue system by Torqeedo. Nautor Swan and Torqeedo’s partnership represents Nautor Swan’s commitment to sustainability and innovation. The diesel-electric propulsion system that powers Dreamcatcher’s onboard systems is as impressive as it is efficient.
At the core of Dreamcatcher’s power systems are a 120 kW electric motor and a 160 kWh battery bank, which provide clean and quiet energy for propulsion and onboard amenities. Hydrogeneration is a massive appeal of the electric propulsion system, which includes a controllable-pitch propeller, allowing for increased performance under power or during hydrogeneration while sailing. The ability to generate renewable energy aboard the Swan 88 solidifies Nautor Swan’s position in sustainability.
Two 45 kW generators provide backup power, ensuring the ability to meet the power consumption demand. However, energy management minimizes generator runtime, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the experience without the hum of machinery. The Deep Blue system aligns with Nautor Swan’s ethos of sustainable power.
Torqeedo’s Deep Blue propulsion system aboard Swan 88 Dreamcatcher exemplifies cutting-edge sustainability in marine technology. Since its founding in 2005, the German company has consistently advanced electric propulsion, culminating in the launch of the Deep Blue system in 2013. This high-performance technology integrates electric engines with advanced energy management, perfectly complementing Dreamcatcher’s luxurious allure.
Photos: Eva-Stina Kjellman | Words: Kayleen Turner
