The goal of the new Shannon 50 Global design concept variations is to create another dimension of comfort, utilizing the sea tested Shannon 47/52 hull. The additional comfort is provided by a wheelhouse with an “almost conventional” cockpit behind. The object is to enable people to get out of the weather - sun, rain, cold, or heat. For the times with good conditions, there is a second outside helm along with a large sitting area.

Since most long distance voyagers are husband and wife sailing teams, the other goal of the new design is to eliminate work, especially winching and handling sails. The main sail on the S50 Global uses an electrical operated roller furling boom. The headsail is also roller furling with a self tending club boom to eliminate headsail winch work when tacking. One person is able to raise, reef, or lower both sails just by pressing a button. In the event of any mechanical failure, the sails can be operated manually. Bow thrusters will also be standard for ease of docking in tight quarters.