Head and sails above the rest
South African yacht claims international award
In an award ceremony dominated by European yacht builders, South African Southern Wind Shipyard beat YYachts of Germany and Aegean Yacht of Turkey to claim the overall title of Best Sailing Yacht in the 24 to 40 m category.
Hosting the annual Design and Leadership Awards Gala at the end of October, the International Superyacht Society (ISS) honoured outstanding companies and individuals for their contributions to yachting internationally.
Southern Wind’s SW108 Gelliceaux features interior designs by Nauta Design and is built on the blueprint by Farr Yacht Design.
In the motivation for the award, ISS said: “GELLICEAUX stands as a true marvel of sustainable sailing, featuring a cutting-edge diesel-electric hybrid propulsion system. As the first Southern Wind project designed from the ground up as a hybrid, she is paving the way for eco-friendly performance sailing. This yacht seamlessly integrates the latest design innovations, ensuring they harmonize perfectly with the sleek exterior, creating a cohesive and forward-thinking sailing experience.”
PHOTO: Southern Wind was represented by Jeremy Peek (Commercial Manager) and Jim Schmicker (President of Farr Yacht Design) who accepted the award during the ceremony. (Source: ISS Flickr)
2026