2022 Custom Southwell 51

The 2022 Southwell 51 is a custom-built aluminium sailing yacht designed for extended cruising. Measuring 51 feet with a 14.76-foot beam, she combines robust construction with comprehensive modern systems. The sloop-cutter rig features a Sparcraft aluminium mast and boom with dual Profurl roller-furling units, four Ulman sails including a stack-pack mainsail and asymmetrical spinnaker, and seven Harken winches—two of which are electric. Power comes from a 110-horsepower Yanmar diesel engine with 1000 litres of fuel capacity across two aluminium tanks, and a three-blade fixed propeller. The boat cruises at 8 knots and reaches 10 knots at full speed.

The accommodation comprises six berths across three cabins with two double and two single berths. Two heads feature both electric and manual toilet options with salt- or fresh-water selection. Two showers and two basins serve the interior, which is finished in white paint with oak trimming, oak vinyl flooring, and substantial headroom throughout. A raised deck saloon with 360-degree views houses the navigation station and comfortable seating. The galley includes a three-burner Force 10 stove with oven and grill, microwave, integrated fridge and freezer units, and a double stainless steel sink with hot and cold pressurised fresh water. Interior lighting is all LED, with opening deck hatches and Oceanair blinds throughout.

Navigation and control systems are comprehensively equipped with Raymarine electronics including a Quantum Radar, dual GPS chart plotters, VHF, AIS transceiver, sounder, and wind instruments. Steering combines a Whitlock pedestal wheel with Raymarine Evolution autopilot and a Vetus bow thruster. Electrical systems feature dual Blue Nova lithium house batteries, Victron battery management and solar charging with six panels, a 24V wind generator, and an inverter-charger. Deck hardware includes a Lofrans electric windlass, two anchors with 100 metres of galvanised chain, outboard crane, and swim ladder suitable for scuba diving. Safety equipment comprises a six-person life raft, EPIRB, fire extinguishers, and harnesses. A three-metre Gemini tender with Suzuki outboard and a water maker complete the outfit. The boat has been sailed exclusively in local Cape Town waters since launch.