In 2026, we completed the full refit and restoration of this iconic 1974 Swan 41, a yacht with more than 50 years of sailing heritage.
Originally designed by Sparkman & Stephens and built by Nautor Swan, the Swan 41 is known as being a succesful racer-cruisers. At Hutting Yachts, we have undertaken a comprehensive refit to transform this classic yacht into a future-proof modern classic while preserving everything that makes a Swan a Swan.
1. Hull Restoration & Awlgrip Paint System
The project started with a complete strip-down of the yacht.
The original teak deck and deck hardware were removed, allowing us to inspect and restore the underlying structure. Following Polyester repairs to previous collision damage, all unnecessary openings in the deck and hull were permanently closed, creating a clean foundation for the rebuild.
The hull was then faired and refinished using a professional Awlgrip paint system.
The new colour scheme includes:
• Awlgrip Majestic Blue hull
• Off-white superstructure and deckhouse
• Elegant gold detailing and striping
2. Underwater Hull & Steering System
The underwater hull was stripped completely back to bare substrate before receiving a new epoxy protection system and fresh antifouling.
For maximum performance, the antifouling was additionally sanded smooth between coats, creating an exceptionally fair underwater surface suitable for competitive racing. The rudder was removed entirely to gain access to the steering bearings. All rudder bearings have been renewed, ensuring precise steering and reliability for years to come.
3. Deck Hardware & Rigging Upgrades
Several deck fittings have been renewed and upgraded.
The original winches have been replaced with modern self-tailing racing winches, significantly improving handling efficiency and making the yacht easier to sail short-handed while also enhancing race performance.
Additional sailing upgrades include:
• New standing rigging
• New running rigging
• Upgraded Cunningham system
• New deck fittings where required
• Leather-wrapped steering wheel
• New mainsail cover and renewed canvas work
4. Complete Electrical & Navigation Refit
Inside the yacht, the entire original 1974 electrical installation has been removed and replaced.
Major upgrades include:
• New lithium battery system
• Complete new electrical installation
• Full B&G navigation package
• New sailing instruments
• Hydraulic autopilot controlled directly from the cockpit
• Custom-built stainless steel plotter console
• Bespoke high-gloss stainless steel switch panel
The result is a modern navigation and energy system ready for offshore cruising and competitive sailing alike.
5. Interior Modernisation
The interior has been carefully refreshed while respecting the yacht’s original atmosphere.
The original foam-backed ceiling panels were removed and replaced with durable Formica panels. Unlike traditional foam-backed systems, Formica is moisture-resistant, easy to clean and highly durable.
Additional interior improvements include:
• Completely renewed ceilings
• New LED lighting throughout
• Corian galley worktops
• Integrated espresso machine station
• New upholstery in Sunbrella Lopi Snow fabric
• Renewed boiler system
• New freshwater pumps
• New greywater system
• New bilge pumps
• Comprehensive technical upgrades throughout the vessel
6. Ready for Italy & the Rolex Swan Cup
We just completed the trial sails and the yacht is ready to set sail to home port Rotterdam.
Once delivered, she will head to Italy, where she will join one of the world’s largest concentrations of classic and modern Swan yachts. Her next major challenge awaits in September, when she is scheduled to compete in the prestigious Rolex Swan Cup in Sardinia.
From a 50-year-old classic racer-cruiser to a fully modernised performance yacht, this Swan 41 showcases what is possible when traditional craftsmanship meets contemporary yacht technology.
Interested in restoring your classic sailing yacht?
Visit www.hutting-yachts.com, contact us via info@hutting.nl, or schedule a visit to our shipyard in Makkum, the Netherlands.
