It takes a talented naval architect to design a good offshore boat. But it takes firsthand, offshore experience to refine the design and get all the details right in order to make it a great boat. The Nordhavn 47 is the beneficiary of P.A.E.’s extensive passagemaking experience. It is the result of a long term, evolutionary process that started with P.A.E.’s successful line of Mason sailboats and has continued through Nordhavn’s record-setting powerboats.
Beginning with the anchoring system, everything on the boat is built and designed for heavy-duty use. Knowing that most Nordhavn owners will find themselves anchored in demanding conditions, the N47 is designed to accommodate a 110 lb. Bruce anchor with 400 feet of chain. Forward of the wheelhouse, a sturdy, heavy-gauge safety rail provides a sure hold and is high enough to keep you onboard. All cleats feature integrated hawseholes for fair runs and extremely high loads.
The Portuguese bridge provides protection and security and is a wonderful place to stand and watch the world go by. Everywhere you look, there are handholds and safety rails, all of which are solidly attached to the boat with proper backing plates. The pilothouse windows by Diamond Seaglaze are ½” tempered glass, strong enough to shed a breaking wave.
No other powerboat builder has as much experience with stabilizing systems than Nordhavn, and the N47 can be equipped with active 7.5-foot fins, a passive paravane system, or both. Either way, they will reduce roll significantly, adding immensely to the comfort of the crew. Active stabilizers are as easy to use as flipping a switch. An advantage of the passive system, besides costing less, is that it can be used while at anchor.
An optional flybridge is ideal for those who plan to do extensive cruising in warm waters, and is increases the boat’s usable space where crew and guests can enjoy the view from higher up. Aft of the bridge, the deck area holds a large dinghy and will accommodate kayaks, a barbecue grill, wet bar and more. Once the water toys are launched, this is an ideal place to lounge and enjoy the anchorage.
The aft cockpit features a protective overhang, and it can be enclosed with canvas and glass curtains during inclement weather. A very solid swim platform is part of the hull and provides easy, safe access to a dinghy or dock. A watertight hatch gives access to a cavernous lazarette where cruising gear and accessory equipment are located. The starboard side of the boat incorporates an 18” wide deck leading from the cockpit to the wheelhouse door and Portuguese bridge.
When you have the opportunity of seeing a Nordhavn 47 and spending time onboard, you will undoubtedly conclude that the P.A.E. design team, led by Jim Leishman, has thought of everything to make this a safe and comfortable passagemaker. Carefully compare it to any long range cruiser under 50 feet, and you will also conclude that it represents the very best value on the market.
