Green, technological navigation

By Editorial Staff - 15 April 2024
Alpi, Dickson have participated in the project

The new SW108 Hybrid Gelliceaux is a promise for the future, a lens with which to launch forward into the future of sailing – yet this first sailing yacht of Southern Wind’s SW108 series is already a reality of the present. With its sought-after balance between innovation, performance reliability, and sustainability, which includes options for customization, it encapsulates some of the most indispensable characteristics of environmentally friendly boating. Its hybrid propulsion system makes it a real milestone in the evolution of green technology, as well as an emblem of the Smart Custom philosophy of the shipyard, founded in Cape Town in 1991 by Italian engineer and entrepreneur Willy Persico. This concept is based not only on the highest level of customization possible – as in the case of Gelliceaux – but also on the fundamental and unfaltering characteristics of innovation, functionality, performance, and quality of being at sea.

Between sailing and hybrid propulsion, between experience capitalization and progressive enhancement of the sail area, appendices, and water lines, the designers of the yacht centered the values of efficiency and comfort, in order to guarantee an experience with high sailing performance while in symbiosis with the surrounding marine environment.

The naval architecture was carried out by Farr Yacht Design, while the interior and exterior spaces were curated by Nauta Design. The result is one of the best examples of the Southern Wind fleet in terms of seaworthiness, both in the presence of light and stronger winds. Its handling, balance, lightness, and rudder responsiveness are hallmarks on par with the patented propulsion system capable of ensuring long ocean crossings and high autonomy.

In terms of design, the coexistence of performance and comfort has translated into sporty, functional exterior spaces and welcoming and refined interiors. The cockpit, spacious and characterized by seating on both sides, provides access below deck thanks to a particularly large hatch. The interior space is fluid, on two staggered levels, enhanced both day and night by a constant interaction between natural light and punctual artificial lighting, where the lighting fixtures are mostly hidden from view. The effect is one of increased brightness during the day, and of warmth and reflection in the evening.

SW108 Hybrid Gelliceaux Southern Wind | © Giuliano Sargentini courtesy Southern Wind La rubinetteria, i corrimano e gli altri accessori del bagno sono in nero satinato che conferisce all’ambiente un aspetto contemporaneo.

There are several openings on deck, adding to the large skylight on the deckhouse and the side windows. The natural light that filters through this central point of the yacht illuminates the first living area, connected to the other spaces and four cabins through a short staircase and a light-colored couch. The latter, with its sinuous shape, stretches along the entire right side, sloping down following the form of the ship. The owner’s cabin is located in the bow and shares the welcoming atmosphere found in the other interior spaces, featuring subtle hues, and organic and natural materials, which were strongly desired by the owners themselves.

Warmth and elegance are thus the defining features of the interior design project, but are never separated from the practicality of hospitality, even in the presence of children. The configuration of the spacious salon, which can accommodate up to eight people in the dining area alone, is proof of this approach.

The deck was designed to achieve balance between comfort and functionality; an example of this is the overhanging platform at the stern that allows direct access to the water while at anchor. The transom, thanks to its double opening, allows those onboard to more intensely and comfortably experience life at sea.

SW108 Hybrid Gelliceaux Southern Wind | © Jesus Renedo courtesy of Southern Wind

All the Nuances of Wood | © Giuliano Sargentini courtesy of Southern Wind | Alpi was chosen to supply wood for the project, keeping in line with the smart custom philosophy of the boat design. Planked White, Planked Sand, and Planked Grey of the Xilo collection were adopted for the dunnage, furnishings, decorative details, and dining table. Curated by Piero Lissoni, the products are inspired by nature, reproducing the grains and colors of natural wood through a calibrated color scale. | www.alpi.it

SW108 Hybrid Gelliceaux Southern Wind | © Giuliano Sargentini courtesy of Southern Wind

SW108 Hybrid Gelliceaux Southern Wind | © Giuliano Sargentini courtesy of Southern Wind | Elegance and hospitality characterize the project, which involved careful research on the geometry of the furnishings and chosen palettes. The deck was designed with the aim of maximizing comfort while also ensuring absolute safety for passengers and crew as they move through the yacht’s spaces.

SW108 Hybrid Gelliceaux Southern Wind | © Giuliano Sargentini courtesy of Southern Wind | Special attention was paid to the lighting design created in collaboration with PSLab, in order to create the feeling and perception of more available space. The headboards of the cabins, for example, were made with raised padded panels that create different shadows, increasing the sense of depth.

SW108 Hybrid Gelliceaux Southern Wind | © Giuliano Sargentini courtesy of Southern Wind | The faucets, handrails, and other bathroom accessories are in satin black, giving the room a contemporary look.

SW108 Hybrid Gelliceaux Southern Wind | © Giuliano Sargentini courtesy of Southern Wind | The color palette of the interiors revolves around a range of delicate colors inspired by nature. With contributions from the fabric-covered walls, the result is a fresh and simple atmosphere that is also elegant, warm, and welcoming at the same time.

SW108 Hybrid Gelliceaux Southern Wind | © Giuliano Sargentini courtesy of Southern Wind | The owners were involved in the entire ship design and particularly appreciated the layout of the airy lounge and the presence of numerous couches placed on both levels. The custom-made couches have generous dimensions, making the ambiance even more welcoming.

Builder: Southern Wind
Lighting Design Consultant: PSLab Lighting Design
Completion: 2023
Naval Architect: Farr Yacht Design
Interior and Exterior Designer: Nauta Design

Unless otherwise indicated, photography: Giuliano Sargentini, courtesy of Southern Wind

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