NYUMBA // Nauta Design // Southern Wind

Massimo Gino, co-founder of Nauta Design in Milan and a long-standing design partner of Southern Wind, emphasizes the distinctiveness of Nyumba despite being the fourth hull in the SW96 series. He highlights that Nyumba is the first yacht from Southern Wind to feature hybrid electric propulsion, developed in collaboration with BAE Systems to comply with IMO Tier III regulations. Additionally, he points out that the sleek and uncomplicated lines of the GT deck configuration represent a significant advancement of the GT deck concept initially introduced on the SW105 Taniwha.

The owner’s expert requirements for a fast and efficient cruising yacht, capable of global sailing with a small crew and participation in superyacht regattas, were considered. The owner desired a sleek and dynamic profile, a clutter-free deck layout, and ergonomically positioned deck equipment for ease of use, guest safety, and comfort. These preferences led to the incorporation of various aesthetic and practical innovations.

One notable design element is the low-carbon composite coachroof, which contributes to the yacht’s sporty appearance and minimalist profile. The coamings that protect the guest cockpit seamlessly blend into the teak decking, serving as an elegant design feature and as a covered pathway for the sheets from the winches as they move forward. This stylish detail ensures that the guest area remains free of running rigging, with the sheets re-emerging from the front part of the coachroof.

Gino explains that we take immense pride in the purity of the styling and form, as well as the meticulous attention to detail in terms of form-meets-function. In response to the owner’s request for a larger maneuvering area aft, there were several modifications. Firstly, the sun beds have been shortened and pushed the mainsheet traveler as far aft as possible, to the end of the boom. This not only maximizes the available space but also minimizes the loads. Furthermore, we have positioned the mainsheet traveler aft of the crew companionway, designed to resemble a miniature version of the coachroof. To enhance visibility, the designers have brought the twin helm positions further forward and mounted the consoles on custom-designed supports that resemble the hub of a propeller or thruster, as per the client’s specific request.

To ensure ease of handling, especially when sailing with a smaller crew, three winches have been mounted on each side of the vessel. These winches are conveniently located on the teak coamings, which also serve as comfortable benches within easy reach of the helm positions. Additionally, LED lighting has been installed under the coamings, creating a visually striking “floating” effect after dark. For safe operations under sail, the aft deck has been entirely flush, with just one step down into the guest cockpit to provide added protection.

The swimming platform of 8.5 sqm and garage for a 4.5m tender are cleverly integrated into the transom design by Southern Wind. The transom comprises two folding sections, allowing the lower section to be angled upwards for protection in rough waters or if the tender comes off the plane nearby, while the upper chamber remains horizontal.

The established and proven SW96 arrangement is adhered to in the interior design, featuring the master stateroom and two ensuite guest cabins located amidships. The crew quarters are situated in the stern. The inclusion of deck hatches allows for an abundance of natural light and a refreshing atmosphere in the cabins and bathrooms. The main salon, positioned amidships, is enhanced by a sliding glass companionway hatch, expansive hull windows, and a generous skylight that spans the entire length of the coachroof.

“Nyumba is a Swahili word for “home” and the owners will be spending a lot of time aboard, so the interior had to be both comfortable and cozy,” says Gino.

“The design is based on classic oiled teak veneers and specific pieces of fitted furniture, but the general styling was managed by the owners, choosing from the wide range of options in the Southern Wind palette of materials and colors.”

“Last but not least, the owner’s choice of dark grey for the hull and coachroof highlights the sophisticated simplicity of the exterior design and titanium deck hardware,” concludes Gino.

“There is no cove stripe or waterline stripe and even the antifouling paint is the same shade of grey as the hull.”

Nyumba won the ISS Award 2023 in the BEST SAIL under 500GT category and in the BEST INTERIOR SAIL category.