"SWANYA (Ex-GEM) was originally designed and built for a limited edition one-design class called (sic) Bonello-44, by Sparkman & Stephens and (sic) Bonello of Italy. She made herself known with the Swan 44's, both before and after their stern modification. Her internal joinerwork was simpler, easier to maintain, and much lighter, which no doubt contributed to her superior speed....Good cruising. Very sincerely, Bill and Jane Ziegler"
William Ziegler, III (former owner, GEM, New York Yacht Club) October, 1997
Designed to rate for Admirals Cup racing (Two Ton Class), but also for family and club use, Swanya was commissioned and built for William Ziegler III of the New York Yacht Club. Originally named GEM, she was one of a long line of GEM's owned by the Ziegler family over many years.
Name: Ex-GEM, renamed upon sale by request of W. Ziegler III. Current - Swanya (phonetic for the French adjective, "Soigne") by the current owners, Mark and Kimberly Cathcart
Featured in Media:
Swanya featured in Time/Life Series of books: Sailing 1972 (TBV)
Swanya featured in a training film: Small Boat Transit Panama Canal, January 1976
Described by: the late Olin Stephens as
"a very exciting design" in its day.
Sparkman & Stephens http://www.sparkmanstephens.com/
Influences seen: in numerous subsequent designs by S&S, for
example, Sequin 44, described in "Offshore Yachts: 5 Good Boats" by John Rousmaniere
