Nordhavn N51 Review (2024 Edition) by Aquaholic

On Deck

The Nordhavn N51 mirrors the design of larger Nordhavn yachts, keeping the strong brand identity in a more compact form. The cockpit is flexible, offering space for fishing or water sports, with high bulwarks ensuring safety. The absence of fixed furniture allows owners to personalize the space with freestanding pieces. The foredeck is uncluttered and features a seating area, an anchor winch, and a dammed-off area for easy cleaning of anchor muck. The yacht is equipped with a crane and space for a tender on the boat deck.

The flybridge includes a folding arch, which can be hinged back to reduce height when navigating bridges or rivers. It features a seating area, a solid table, and an upper helm station that provides excellent visibility, crucial for piloting in close quarters. The area offers spacious storage, perfect for deck gear and other essentials.

The interior is designed for comfort during long-distance cruising. The saloon is equipped with comfortable chairs, a TV that rises from cabinetry, handrails in the ceiling and privacy blinds. The galley has plenty of refrigeration, crucial for extended voyages.  

The raised pilot house is a standout feature, offering a commanding helm station with comprehensive controls, including Garmin screens and John Deere engine instrumentation. It includes an off-watch berth for the captain, useful for long passages. The helm is equipped with advanced systems such as track stabilization and a camera system for monitoring the engine space.

Forward Cabin

The forward cabin would likely be the owner's and features large hull windows that provide natural light and fantastic views, a new feature for Nordhavn yachts. It includes an ensuite bathroom with a shower, a large opening hatch, and ample storage, including illuminated hanging lockers.

Guest Accommodation

The guest cabin is spacious and includes its own ensuite bathroom with a separate shower. The cabin offers plenty of storage space, ensuring guests' comfort. Both cabins are well-appointed, making it difficult to distinguish the owner's cabin from the guest cabin in terms of luxury and space.

The engine room features twin John Deere engines, providing a top speed of 11 knots and a range of 3,000 miles at eight knots. Perfect for N51's role as a displacement cruiser designed for offshore, long-distance travel. The yacht's engineering includes practical solutions such as removable ceiling panels for engine access and multiple backup systems for redundancy.

Nick is impressed with the Nordhavn N51's ability to deliver the full Nordhavn experience in a more compact form. He appreciates the yacht's practicality, attention to detail, and strong construction, which make it is well-suited for serious cruising. The N51 maintains Nordhavn's reputation for excellence in long-distance, offshore yachting, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a capable and reliable vessel.