SW108 Kalantis sets sail from Cape Town to Palma International Boat Show
by Southern Wind Yachts 12 Mar 18:00 PDT
THE ULTIMATE EXPRESSION OF FREEDOM
The new SW108 Kalantis has departed Cape Town, where she was meticulously built by Southern Wind and launched in December 2025.
Described by her owner as the "ultimate expression of freedom", Kalantis represents another successful collaboration between Farr Yacht Design and Nauta Design, and a distinctive addition to the Southern Wind fleet.
The owner's brief was clear: to combine long-range cruising capability with genuine racing performance.
Starting from the proven SW108 Smart Custom platform, Farr Yacht Design refined the rig, sail plan and appendages to optimise performance under the ORCsy measurement system, while preserving the balance and comfort required for extended cruising.
Britton Ward, Naval Architect at Farr Yacht Design, explains:
"Every decision regarding deck and interior arrangements was evaluated for weight and performance implications. Adjustments were made to the sail plan and bulb design to achieve the desired performance and stability profile. The final configuration features a high-modulus carbon rig with EC6 carbon rigging supporting a generous square-headed mainsail.
Two key characteristics define Kalantis' performance profile: a generous sail area, enabling competitiveness in light winds thanks to excellent maneuverability and acceleration, and high stability.
The twin-rudder configuration allows the yacht to sail at higher heel angles with exceptional controllability and speed both upwind and on the reach."
Performance and Refinement
Although conceived with a strong racing focus, Kalantis retains the elegance and onboard comfort that define Southern Wind yachts.
Massimo Gino of Nauta Design, responsible for both exterior and interior design, notes: "The sleek flush deck gives Kalantis a sporty and contemporary profile while remaining true to our GT deck philosophy. The coachroof, finished in teak, introduces warmth and a timeless character."
A key element of the design is the introduction of a large skylight integrated into the coachroof, allowing natural light to flow into the saloon while preserving the yacht's clean exterior lines. Combined with angled coachroof windows and hull glazing, the result is a bright interior with panoramic views.
The twin-cockpit deck layout separates sailing and guest areas while maintaining smooth circulation throughout the yacht. The guest cockpit features generous C-shaped seating to port and starboard, creating comfortable dining and relaxation areas protected by the bimini and sprayhood.
The Revolutionary Seaside Lounge
One of the most distinctive features of Kalantis is the Seaside Lounge, an aft-deck space designed to enhance the experience at anchor.
An advanced transom system opens the stern into a waterside terrace, creating a versatile space for sunbathing, relaxation or evening gatherings by the sea.
The foredeck has been customised with a recessed area for a 5.7 metre custom carbon tender. When it's launched, the space converts into an additional lounging area, combining practical storage with outdoor living.
Interior Design
Kalantis features a four-cabin layout with the owner's cabin positioned forward in the quietest part of the yacht. Forward and to port of the saloon is a flexible guest cabin described by the owners as a "Petit Salon," which can also serve as a studio for digital nomads.
A twin cabin and a spacious double guest cabin are located amidships, while the saloon incorporates a generous L-shaped living and dining area with a TV lounge. The interior has been conceived with versatility in mind, allowing each space to adapt to different moments of life on board.
Crew areas are located aft and include three crew cabins, a spacious crew mess adjacent to the galley, and a fully equipped navigation station adjacent to the aft companionway.
A Distinctive Interior Identity
"Natural light is central to the atmosphere below deck, enhanced by large hull windows and the forward skylight.
Planked walnut defines the interior architecture, accented with darker walnut battens that introduce rhythm and structure throughout the space. This motif begins at the keel trunk cover and continues through key interior surfaces, creating a sense of continuity within the saloon," explains Massimo Gino.
Materials have been selected for their tactile quality and understated elegance. Upholstered panels in Loro Piana Astratto Grey Dune and Lodge Biancore fabrics complement the warm wood tones, while bathrooms are finished with engineered stone countertops and bronze-toned fittings.
Silvia Sacchi, Southern Wind Interior Technical Coordinator, explains:
"When we started designing this yacht, the owner asked for something very special: an interior that felt organic, smooth, detailed, modern and natural, but also something carrying the echo of ancient civilizations, a space that felt timeless, almost mythical. We shaped everything through curves, warm tones and inviting textures. Nothing sharp, nothing cold. Just a soft, flowing environment where every surface feels intentional and alive.
"Kalantis is more than a design: she tells a story. From the drafters to the artisans, the entire team has been deeply involved with passion and dedication."
Southern Wind wishes to thank the owners of Kalantis for their vision in bringing this yacht to life and looks forward to welcoming visitors on board at the Palma International Boat Show.
For more information on Southern Wind Shipyard Australia and New Zealand, please contact:
Kevin Wallis
(m) +61 414 254 666
(e)
(w) www.sws-yachts.com