If Nautor Swan sounds like a sailboat name—it is—or was. With over 2,300 sailboats and racers from 36’-131’ being built in Pietarsaari, Finland, Nautor Swan built a reputation for its focus on elegance and performance. Then, Leonardo Ferragamo took charge of the brand, building the Nautor Swan Shadow in Italy and an equally elegant motoryacht was created, combining the Finnish heritage for precision, combined with the Italian flair for design and construction.


Model Overview


The result of Ferragamo's effort is a beautifully-crafted, luxury day boat with many standout details. We experienced these details firsthand when our crew sea trialed the 43 Shadow with 26North in Fort Lauderdale, FL. She's a versatile vessel that combines high performance, luxury and functionality, capable of reaching speeds up to 55 knots.

Nautor Swan 43 Shadow

Above: A 2025 Nautor Swan 43 Shadow underway. Photo by DeepSee Visuals for boats.com.


First Impressions


The boat was easy to spot at the dock, a study in teak and neutral tones, with extra wide teak gunwales and an extended axe bow, creating extra bench seating, complemented by weather-proofed canvas style upholstery throughout. Ferragamo storage bags lining the starboard and port gunwales add a notable designer appeal, while the 14’ 4” beam provides comfortable walkaround space with no steps. The light faux teak floor and teak dining table maintain the neutral color scheme.

Cockpit Features


The deck and hard top are infused fiberglass with vinylester resins while the hull is sandwiched core, and the boat feels solid on the water, with a large aft deck and many deck storage hatches. The infused fiberglass hardtop is extra-long with four sturdy support poles and a retractable sunroof covering the helm and cockpit seating.

The 2” 10” draft can provide for shallow anchorage at a sandbar or in the islands and alfresco dining is made easy with seating that can flip into seating for the large teak table or a sun pad. The summer kitchen adds to the ease of cooking and serving guests and extra refrigeration is added conveniently under the pilot seat. More bow seating offers lounging with a fabric sunshade available and a table can be inserted for snacks and beverages.

Helm Controls


The minimalistic design of the dashboard reflects Nordic simplicity, ergonomic dual 12” screens, a leather steering wheel, together with an angular windshield which provides excellent visibility and some protection from the elements. Our singular complaint, Europeans do not favor cup holders. I don’t understand what they do with their drinks, but for the American market, Mr. Ferragamo, please add large, deep cup holders! We must hydrate while boating!

Power & Performance


The triple Mercury Verado engines, available in 250, V8 300 or V10 350 HP, are encased by the swim platform which has 3 positions: static for driving, electrically descended to provide excellent water access or extended and raised to act as a passerelle. We tested the 300 HP version which can achieve top speeds of 63 mph, while we cruised comfortably in the mid-40s and the deep freeboard provides a dry ride.

Cabin Interior


Below deck, a double berth accommodates overnighting and the head, with accordion doors, a teak floor shower and a covered commode make the cabin simple and well-executed, built with quality materials.

The look and feel of the Nautor Swan Shadow makes it distinctive at the dock and a comfortable ride and overnighter. An “Overshadow” model with an enclosed bow is also available as are inboard and outboard engines. We hear a 75 Arrow model may be available in September, but with the recent acquisition by Sanlorenzo Italian yachts, we’ll look for more news soon. 

In conclusion, the Nautor Swan Shadow 43 is an impressive fusion of Finnish craftsmanship and Italian design, reflecting the legacy of a brand known for performance and elegance. With thoughtful touches, from the retractable sunroof to the versatile swim platform and summer kitchen, she embodies luxury and functionality for day trips or overnight stays. Ferragamo’s influence is apparent in every detail, balancing aesthetics with practicality, although it could benefit from a few American-style comforts, like ample cup holders 😉 . Whether cruising along the coast or relaxing at anchor, the Shadow 43 delivers a smooth, dry ride that will captivate any boating enthusiast seeking a refined experience on the water.

Specifications:
Length (LOA): 44 ft. 8 in.
Beam: 14 ft. 4 in.
Max Draft: 3 ft
Cabins: 1
Heads: 1
Fuel Tanks: 251 gal.
Fresh Water Tanks: 41 gal.
Holding Tanks: 16 gal.

Visit Nautor Swan For More Info

View Nautor Swan 43 Shadow Boats For Sale