Fortissimo, the new SW96 launched in Cape Town

In the presence of her owners, SW96 Fortissimo touched the water for the first time, her striking forest green metallic hull reflecting a project shaped by a clear and personal vision. Conceived for an experienced sailor with a strong racing background, the yacht was developed with the intention of combining competitive performance with the comfort and elegance required for extended cruising.

On the Cape Town dock, her owner explained while admiring the hull still in slings: “Fortissimo comes from sheet music. I am not a musician, but it means play fast, play strong, and that’s how I feel about this boat. Especially when it comes to racing, I believe strength is critical, and this yacht represents that. I can’t wait to cruise it! I can’t wait to race it!”

As the sixth yacht in the SW96 project, Fortissimo builds on a proven platform while expressing a distinct identity. Her owner’s brief focused on refining the performance potential of the design, also introducing technical and aesthetic choices that reflect an ambitious race-oriented approach.

As Fortissimo was christened in the waters of Cape Town harbour, Southern Wind CEO Marco Alberti commented: “The launch of Fortissimo confirms the enduring success of the SW96 project. With each new yacht, we continued to evolve the platform while responding to the specific visions of the owners. Fortissimo stands out for her strong performance focus, combined with the comfort and refinement that define our approach to long-distance cruising. New technical choices together with contemporary design, Fortissimo embodies the Southern Wind ‘Perfect Balance’ ethos.”

With Naval Architecuture by Farr Yacht Design, Fortissimo features a full carbon hull and deck, twin rudders, high-modulus rigging and a lifting keel ranging from 3.4 to 5.5 metres. These elements form the foundation of a yacht conceived to perform consistently across a wide range of sea conditions.

With regards to offshore capability, Fortissimo incorporates a number of solutions aimed at enhancing her sailing efficiency. Among these is a new J4/baby stay system with halyard lock and hydraulic tensioner, while the deck layout includes a third set of winches in the aft cockpit to facilitate more complex manoeuvres when racing. Southern Wind’s Technical Manager, Yann Dabbadie, points out that “The additional running backstay winches signal an unambiguous racing intent, transforming this blue water cruiser into a powerful statement of offshore performance.”

Designed for versatility, her systems and onboard configuration have been tailored with transatlantic use in mind, reflecting the owner’s intention to sail extensively between the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, and North America.

A Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system ensures compliance with IMO Tier III regulations, allowing Fortissimo to operate efficiently in environmentally regulated areas, while reducing emissions in line with evolving sustainability standards.

The deck and interior design reflect Nauta Yacht Design’s extensive expertise. The raised saloon configuration enhances the connection between interior and exterior, allowing natural light to flow into the living spaces while maintaining panoramic views of the surrounding seascape.

The interior offers a contemporary interpretation of Southern Wind’s signature style. Accommodation is arranged for six guests in three cabins, of which one guest cabin aft of the saloon. These are complemented by a spacious TV and relaxation area forward of the main saloon. The owner’s cabin is conceived as a private and functional space forward, featuring a dressing area, lounge seating and a discreet vanity. Aft we find the crew area, with two ensuite cabins, the galley and a crew mess.

The signature SW balance between performance and comfort is expressed on this yacht also through carefully selected materials and details. Subtle carbon-look accents throughout echo the yacht's racing character. A refined atmosphere is visible in her interior rich textures, ultraleather surfaces combined with soft fabrics create an almost tactile environment.

Fortissimo has been built with a clearly defined sailing programme from the outset. Following her delivery from Cape Town, she will sail in the Western Mediterranean for the Summer season before making her regatta debut at the Ibiza JoySail later in the year. Looking ahead, the owner has planned an active programme combining racing and cruising, including time in the Caribbean and participation in key international regattas both in the Mediterranean and the Americas.