Nordhavn 59CP Review (2024 Edition) by Aquaholic

On Deck

The Nordhavn 59 Coastal Pilot has a different layout to other Nordhavns of this size, but it works well. It has side boarding gates, making it easy to get on and off when docked side-on. Windbreaks can be pulled across to stop wind funnelling through. The side decks are wide, with well-placed handholds for security. A side door from the helm allows direct access to the deck.

The forward deck is solid and well-equipped, with a large Ultra anchor and a second bow roller. The anchor chain lockers are easily accessible, with deck buttons for the winch. Deck wash points provide hot and cold water, useful for cleaning the deck and anchor chain. Shore power can be plugged in at the bow, so cables don’t have to be run from the stern when moored bow-in.

The flybridge is spacious and practical, with a fridge, sink, and a table that can be surrounded by chairs. The area can be enclosed with panels. The helm station has Furuno screens, communications equipment, engine controls, joystick, and a wheel. Visibility is excellent, making it a great place to manoeuvre from. There are two comfortable helm seats.

Behind the flybridge is the boat deck, equipped with a crane and a tender. The tender is an aluminium RIB, making it more durable than a typical fibreglass-hulled version.

The aft cockpit is at water level, making it well-suited for fishing. The bathing platform has bars for extra security when standing.

The interior retains the high-quality craftsmanship and strength typical of Nordhavn, but with a different feel. Handrails in the ceiling provide security in rough conditions.

The saloon is a good size, with a dinette area and a separate lounging space. A footrest pad adds to the comfort. The electrical distribution panel is extensive, controlling all services from one place, including 24V and 120V mains systems.

The helm has twin seats, an owner specification. The dashboard includes alarm panels, fuel sensors, fire systems, bilge pump controls, and MAN instrumentation screens. Multifunction Furuno displays, communications equipment, engine controls, joystick control, and a FLIR camera system are also integrated.

The galley is aft, unlike most Nordhavns where it is forward of the saloon. It is equipped with a full domestic oven, microwave, large hob with clamps for securing pots while cooking underway, and a trash compactor. There’s a large double fridge with a freezer underneath. Storage is extensive, and a dishwasher is also fitted.

Laundry facilities are in the lower deck foyer, with storage above and below.

Owner's Cabin

The owner's cabin is spacious, with drawers under the bed and extensive storage around the room. A Furuno repeater and VHF radio allow monitoring and communication from bed. Hanging lockers provide additional storage. Sliding doors allow the cabin to be closed off for privacy.

The ensuite includes a shower, sink, and mirror, with sliding doors that fully enclose the space.

Guest Accommodation

The forward guest cabin has a low bed with ample headroom. Wood finishes are complemented by light fabrics to soften the aesthetic. There are hanging lockers, wardrobes, and additional storage under the bed. This cabin has direct access to the day head, which serves as an ensuite at night.

A third cabin has adult-sized bunk beds, with bedside storage and additional lockers. This cabin shares the day head with the forward cabin.

The engine room is walk-in, which is unusual for a boat of this size. The door is heavy-duty and watertight. Inside are twin MAN i6 800 engines, each producing 800hp. The semi-displacement hull allows a top speed of 21 knots and a cruising speed of 12 knots. Dropping back to 7.5 knots provides a range of 1,000 nautical miles, which is lower than a full-displacement Nordhavn but still substantial.

Fuel tank sight gauges are well protected, ensuring they can’t be accidentally damaged. The engine room is well-lit with full standing headroom. The generator is positioned for easy access.

The electrical system includes lithium-ion batteries, inverters, and chargers, all neatly arranged. The shore power cable is powered in and out for convenience. The rudder stocks are easily accessible, ensuring straightforward maintenance.

Above, the mast holds Tracvision domes, two radars, and the FLIR camera. A lightning conductor is fitted to safely route strikes into the water.

The Nordhavn 59 Coastal Pilot is an interesting shift from the brand’s traditional displacement yachts, prioritising speed without sacrificing capability. The semi-displacement hull and twin MAN engines deliver a top speed of 21 knots, a stark contrast to the usual slow and steady Nordhavn approach. While range is reduced compared to the single-engine displacement models, it still offers long-distance cruising potential with a 1,000-nautical-mile range at lower speeds. The layout also breaks from tradition, with the galley positioned aft, creating a different flow in the interior. It still feels like a Nordhavn - solid, practical, and built for serious use - but the design leans towards owner comfort, with relaxed seating arrangements, lighter materials, and customisation options that reflect how people actually use their boats.