Nimbus Commuter 9 Review (2022 Edition) by Aquaholic

On Deck

A boarding ladder is fitted for access, and shore power connects via a locker at the transom. There’s a small seat over a large storage void that’s used for deck gear like warps and cleaning kit. Stainless steel gates lift out for passage forward.

Unusually for a boat of this size, it has rod holders/rocket launchers and a solid stainless mast carrying radar, searchlight, and antenna. The build feels serious, with all-metal fixtures giving it a robust edge.

The walk-around deck layout has deep side decks with thigh-high bulwarks that give a protected, in-the-boat feel. At the bow, there’s a forward cockpit with a table and seating. The table lifts off its legs and stores in a hatch directly into the cabin. Another clever touch is a free-standing seat that folds flat and can be carried ashore.

The anchor winch sits forward with controls on deck and space for fenders and extra gear. As with the other fittings, the cleats are heavy-gauge stainless and built to take weight.

On the wheelhouse roof, there's a manually operated sliding panel. Though not powered, it’s a simpler, more dependable design. Rails run the perimeter of the roof, adding to the secure feel when moving around. The side decks loop fully back to the stern.

Inside the wheelhouse, the Nimbus C9 feels open and airy when the doors and roof are slid back. On colder days, everything shuts tight, and the heater comes into play. The helm is positioned to port with a large multifunction display (approx. 17 inches), engine instrumentation, and controls for the searchlight, VHF, Fusion stereo, and bow thruster. The throttle and Zipwake trim system sit nearby. There’s a dedicated remote control for the bow thruster, something unusual on a boat this size.

Switchgear includes nav lights, anchor light, bilge pump, horn, wipers, and heating controls. A compass and demisters run along the windscreen, helping with visibility in colder, damp conditions.

The saloon area includes seating with swivel chairs that pivot to face a central table. Additional seating wraps around the back, creating a flexible social space. Storage tucks under the seats, and there’s easy access to the battery bank beneath one of them. Large windows flood the space with light and keep visibility clear in all directions, which is especially good for guests unused to boating.

There’s a small galley tucked below with a single-burner stove, sink, and storage areas. It's a place to make a cup of tea or heat some soup rather than cook a huge dinner.

A separate heads compartment houses a toilet, holding tank with gauge, sink, and mirror. Heating outlets are fitted below for comfort in colder months.

Owner Cabin

The cabin, located forward and down a few steps, is well finished with wood accents and subtle lighting. Reading lights and opening windows sit at the head of the bed. The space is modest but comfortable, making overnighting straightforward. Ventilation is good, and the overall impression is of quiet, solid craftsmanship. There’s a sliding door for privacy, although the locking side doors on the main deck already add a secure boundary.

Power comes from a single Mercury Verado 350hp outboard. It gives the Nimbus C9 a top speed of 40 knots and a comfortable cruise between 25 and 30 knots. Typical figures for boats like this suggest a couple of hundred miles.

The boat includes Zipwake dynamic trim tabs for levelling, enhancing performance and ride comfort. The engine has an anti-theft system, and the control panel includes engine start functions, circuit breakers, and battery switches - all easily accessible under the saloon seating.  

The Nimbus C9 is a compact, well-built Scandinavian commuter boat, designed for year-round use. It suits UK waters thanks to its fully enclosed wheelhouse, heating system, and practical walk-around layout. There’s enough space and comfort for day trips or weekend stays. Set-up is quick: step aboard, switch on the systems, start the engine, and go. It’s boating made easy, without compromising on style or sturdiness.