‘Barracuda’ is hull number one of one of the most iconic Swan yachts ever constructed. Designed by Germán Frers and launched between 1980 and 1987, just 36 units were produced, making it a rare and highly sought-after yacht. With her elegant lines, ocean-going capabilities, and timeless craftsmanship, the Swan 51 is perfect for both offshore adventures and refined coastal cruising.
The yacht features Webasto reversible air-conditioning, extensive electrical upgrades, and a comprehensive Furuno electronics suite, ensuring comfort and ease of handling. She is also fitted with a Harken mainsail track and car system — a high-performance upgrade that significantly improves mainsail handling under load. Additionally, she is equipped with a Lewmar coffee grinder system connected to two size 65 winches — a powerful and distinctive addition that significantly enhances the yacht’s performance. This coffee grinder is a unique upgrade — no other Swan 51 is known to have been equipped with this system. The yacht also features a bespoke OPACMARE hydraulic gangway with remote control — a premium and costly enhancement for easy access.
‘Barracuda’ also won the prestigious Swan World Cup in 1982, a testament to her exceptional performance and pedigree.
The current owner, an experienced yachtsman, has consistently received praise for ‘Barracuda’s’ impeccable condition and impressive presence. This reflects the strong and lasting impression she makes on all who see her. She is in immaculate condition. Recommended viewing!
Refit & Upgrades Overview
2012 Full Refit:
• New teak deck and Harken genoa tracks & cars
• Opacmare hydraulic gangway with remote control
• Awlgrip paint (hull & deck)
• New Harken furlers and mainsail track
• New Dacron mainsail and genoa (plus older high-performance UK Kevlar sails adapted to new rig)
• Electric toilets (2 x Sanimarin)
• Electric ceramic heaters 220V (3 x)
• 4 AIS personal beacons + 2 SARSAT distress beacons
• 2 x Mastervolt battery chargers
• 2 x Cristec converters (220V/24V/12V)
• Webasto reversible air-conditioning with 3 heat exchangers
• LED night lighting
• 2x additional Lewmar 42 winches
• Carbon spinnaker pole and carbon steering wheel
Subsequent Upgrades:
• New Volvo D2-75 engine (2017) with dual alternators (12V & 24V)
• New engine/propeller transmission shaft
• New shaft seal
• New rod rigging (2016)
• Full interior re-varnished, new teak floor layers
• New soft nappa leather upholstery in saloon
• New anti-slip stair covering by Nautor
• Nubuck leather cover for the mast
• Glomex active GSM antenna system for phone and internet access offshore (up to 40 nm)
• Custom stainless gennaker pole + gennaker sail
• Custom protective cover for the genoa
• Replaced all deck hatches (GOIOT) with sunshades (Skyshade)
• Antifouling and Gelshield application (6 coats) below waterline
• Rudder and steering wheel system dismantled, inspected, parts replaced
• New Raytheon autopilot motor
• Running rigging replaced with Kevlar (Lancelin)
• 4 new retractable stainless mooring cleats
• 2xSEASAFEliferafts(8P+6P)
• Rotatable iPad mount with weather chart display
• Custom protective covers for winches and instruments
• 2 cockpit sun awnings (1 quick-deploy)