Swan tests the water in India
by Jeni Bone on 6 Apr 2010
Under construction in Finland, the Swan 80, could soon be seen in India, or at least owned by an Indian and most likely moored in the Med. MIAA
Ferragamo may be among the myriad of luxury brands making a splash in affluent and avaricious circles in India, but a new product line from the Italian fashion group is about to launch in India, luxury yachts under the brand Swan.
Since 1927, Ferragamo has been synonymous with shoes, some of which graced the feet of icons like Marilyn Monroe, Greta Garbo and Judy Garland who clicked her sparkly red heels and chanted “there’s no place like home” in the 1939 film, the Wizard of Oz.
But since 1998, Ferragamo has also made yachts, some of the finest in the world, under the Swan label. Leonardo Ferragamo, son of founder, Salvatore Ferragamo, succumbed to his passion for sailing and racing and bought the Finnish builder, Nautor, the name behind Swan yachts.
Nautor has forged an agreement with Ocean Blue Group in Mumbai. The company imports yachts, manufacturers a range of powerboats locally under the Mahindra Odyssea brand and sponsors some international major events in the region.
“Swan is the Bentley of yachts,” said Malav Shroff, CEO of Ocean Blue. Swan is a connoisseur’s yacht, and may not be for everyone,” he added, referring to the price tag.
The Swan marque was born in Peetersaari, Finland in 1966 and established a loyal following in sailing circles. Following a series unfortunate events, including a fire that destroyed the boatyard and a lull of 10 years during which time no new models were launched, Ferragamo swept in and salvaged the brand.
Ownership delivers you membership to the ultra exclusive ClubSwan, whose benefits include participation in cruising, racing, and events ashore, from Key West to Sardinia and all points in between. It’s this elite and active clique that Ferragamo admits, compelled him to buy his first Swan.
In India, Swan, with yachts between 42-130 feet, will be competing with earlier entrants, prestige brands Ferretti, Azimut and Princess. Yachts are semi-custom, finished off to client specifications to create “the ultimate product they have always dreamed of,” according to Ferragamo.
More at www.nautorswan.com
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