Jim Leishman, Nordhavn’s chief designer, quickly became aware of a problem upon seeing two of the builder’s megayachts side by side. The size difference between the two, despite them being immediate sisterships, was dramatic. “It was evident that we needed something in between,” he says. That in-between project is the new Nordhavn 112 yacht, pairing the amenities of her bigger sister with the manageability of her little sister. What’s more, she’ll be the first Nordhavn with a steel hull.
The two models that Leishman saw were the Nordhavn 120 and the Nordhavn 96 (like the recent delivery New Journey). Initially, the 120 seemed like a good stepping-up size for customers. However, for some, she’s actually too big of a step. Simultaneously, a 120 is a size where even the most experienced owner-operators realize they need a full crew. To Leishman, the new Nordhavn 112 yacht suits the person wishing “to upsize from something smaller and wants a true expedition yacht,” he explains. Additionally, he sees the design appealing to cruisers who want to step down. “I think this design would be a perfect fit for anyone who has owned a large yacht with lots of crew and is looking to simplify things,” Leishman says.
Keeping volume less than 400 gross tons means that operations, crewing, and regulatory requirements are much simper than a 500-ton-plus project. Steel significantly allows for a few things as well. Firstly, it eliminates the need to develop a mold, which a fiberglass yacht needs. This in turn saves a good deal of money for Nordhavn, along with time. Secondly, steel hulls permit make it easier to incorporate design changes. Thirdly, steel hulls match well with either aluminum or fiberglass superstructures. These materials are both currently in consideration for the project.
Interestingly, Nordhavn is seeking a shipyard to make the steel hulls for the Nordhavn 112 yacht series. Leishman is particularly interested in working with a European shipyard. Regardless of who the partner becomes, hull number one will not be on spec. Rather, she’ll be a customer order.
As for the creature comforts, the megayacht can have four guest staterooms and one master suite. Picking up on design features of bigger superyachts, Leishman is incorporating fold-down bulwarks to create balconies. Even with a decided emphasis on long-range adventures, the 112 will have abundant alfresco leisure areas, this, too, borrowed from bigger superyachts. For instance, you can expect to find a big hot tub on the flying bridge, plus a large lounge forward of the pilothouse. A gym will be aboard as well.
The Nordhavn 112, with a crew of six, is still in the design stage. More details to come after a shipyard partner signs on, as does a customer.
Nordhavn nordhavn.com
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