48 Nautor Swan 1981 Boat for Sale

48' Nautor Swan 1981

Hull #066—launched in 1981 as S/Y BLACK TIE—is a late-series example of this iconic model. Distinctive for her custom black Awlgrip topsides, she has been held by just three discerning owners since new.

BLACK TIE is not a project or a forgotten classic; she is a fully realized, continuously refitted yacht. With a complete electrical rewire (2019), new prime Burma teak decks (2021), updated mechanics, and short-handed cockpit modifications, she seamlessly blends 1980s Sparkman & Stephens design with modern operational reliability. Registered in Cowes, UK, and holding a valid 5-year RINA certificate, BLACK TIE stands ready for her next ocean passage. 

She is a yacht that captures attention the moment you lay eyes on her—a true "Gentleman’s Yacht" with an undeniable presence. Her deep black hull and timeless, elegant lines captivate sailors of all generations wherever she anchors. 

The moment you step on board, you feel the solidity and substantial build quality of a bygone era. Nothing here was constructed merely for show; everything was engineered to endure and, above all, to bring her crew home safely. She doesn't need to prove herself against a storm—she is built to be the secure protective shell you rely on when conditions turn harsh. 

BLACK TIE has benefited from exceptional stewardship under her current owner, who has invested considerable time, care, and capital into bringing her to her present condition. She represents a genuine turn-key opportunity. While other classics may carry lower price tags, a closer inspection of the details quickly reveals her uniqueness: very few vintage Swans exist on the market today in such pristine, well-maintained order. 

A regular participant in past Rolex Swan Cups, she remains a well-known silhouette within the Swan community. Following her recent refits, her owner transitioned away from aggressive regatta racing to focus on gentler cruising and classic gatherings, preserving the yacht from unnecessary strain. Fully equipped with a watermaker and updated domestic systems, she offers all the comforts required for modern cruising—without compromising an ounce of her original character or design heritage. 

If you are looking for a true classic icon, BLACK TIE is your yacht.

Denison Yachting - San Francisco is pleased to assist you in the purchase of this vessel. This boat is centrally listed by FOG Yachting.

Denison Yacht Sales offers the details of this yacht in good faith but can’t guarantee the accuracy of this information nor warrant the condition of this boat for sale. This yacht for sale is offered subject to prior sale, price change, or withdrawal from that yacht market without notice. She is offered as a convenience by this yacht broker to its clients and is not intended to convey direct representation of a specific yacht for sale.