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Sailboat Specifications

Swan 48 Ss

Masthead Sloop · Fin With Rudder On Skeg

Designed by Sparkman & Stephens · Built by Nautor · First built 1971

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LOA 47.90 ft  ·  Beam 13.60 ft  ·  Displacement 36,000.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 1,032.00 ft²  ·  Masthead Sloop  ·  Fin With Rudder On Skeg
About the Swan 48 Ss Sailboat

Designed by the legendary Sparkman & Stephens and built by Finland's prestigious Nautor yard, this classic Swan represents the pinnacle of 1970s yacht design. With 46 hulls launched between 1971 and 1976, the Swan 48 Ss established itself as a sophisticated offshore cruiser that could hold its own in competitive sailing. The yacht's substantial 36,000-pound displacement and generous ballast ratio of 14,100 pounds create exceptional stability and seaworthiness, making her ideally suited for serious offshore passages and coastal cruising. Her moderate comfort ratio of 42.53 strikes an excellent balance between performance and livability, while the capsize screening formula of 1.65 confirms her blue-water credentials. The masthead sloop rig with 1,032 square feet of sail area provides ample power, yet remains manageable for a cruising couple. Her fin keel with rudder on skeg configuration offers responsive handling while maintaining directional stability in challenging conditions. The fiberglass construction has proven remarkably durable, with many examples still actively sailing decades after launch. This Swan appeals to sailors seeking a proven offshore design with classic lines, robust construction, and the prestige of the Swan pedigree. She's particularly well-suited for experienced sailors planning extended cruising or occasional club racing.

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Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 47.90 ft / 14.60 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 37.28 ft / 11.36 m
Beam 13.60 ft / 4.15 m
Max Draft 7.74 ft / 2.36 m
Displacement 36,000.00 lb / 16,329 kg
Ballast 14,100.00 lb / 6,396 kg
Ballast Type Lead
Sail Area (Reported) 1,032.00 ft² / 95.88 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin with rudder on skeg
Rigging Type Masthead Sloop
Construction FG
Designer Sparkman & Stephens
Builder Nautor
First Built 1971
Last Built 1976
Number Built 46
Related Sailboats Swan 47 Ss · New York Yacht Club 48 · J/145 · Tartan 48 · X 482
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Engine & Accommodations
Engine Make Volvo Penta
Engine Model MD21A
Engine Type Diesel
Horsepower 36
Fuel Capacity 55 gals / 208 L
Water Capacity 90 gals / 341 L
Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Swan 48 Ss's sail area to displacement ratio?

The Swan 48 Ss has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 15.21. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Swan 48 Ss's comfort ratio?

The Swan 48 Ss has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 42.53. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Swan 48 Ss safe for offshore sailing?

The Swan 48 Ss has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.65. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Swan 48 Ss?

The theoretical hull speed of the Swan 48 Ss is 8.18 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Swan 48 Ss weigh?

The Swan 48 Ss has a displacement of 36,000.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 47.90 ft.

Who designed the Swan 48 Ss?

The Swan 48 Ss was designed by Sparkman & Stephens, first built in 1971.