Nicholson 345 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The creation of the Nicholson 345 in the late 1970s marked a period when Camper & Nicholsons, a company with a heritage stretching back to 1782, was deeply ingrained in the direct construction of yachts from its Gosport yard. Their ethos during this era centered on achieving design and build excellence, ensuring effortless performance, and delivering safe and swift cruising experiences. The 345 emerged from this tradition, benefiting from the collaboration with leading designers of the time.

Ron Holland, the celebrated New Zealander maritime architect, was tasked with designing the 345. While originally conceived with an IOR racing background, the design evolved to present a more "spacy hull design," aiming to offer substantial interior volume without entirely sacrificing speed. This blend of racing lines with cruising practicality was a hallmark of the era, seeking to provide a versatile vessel. A notable variation of the design was the FAST 345, built in Brazil, which largely retained the original Nicholson 345 characteristics.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Nicholson 345, with a length overall of 34.5 feet and a waterline length of 29.5 feet, exhibits characteristics of a moderate displacement, performance-oriented cruiser. Its displacement to length ratio of approximately 200 suggests it is neither an ultralight racer nor an overly heavy displacement cruiser, striking a balance that contributes to its versatile performance.

The yacht's sail area to displacement ratio of around 16.68, based on its calculated sail area, indicates that while it may not be a blistering light-air performer, it should offer steady and manageable performance in varied wind conditions, particularly excelling as the breeze picks up. With a ballast-to-displacement ratio of approximately 0.38, the Nicholson 345 boasts good initial stiffness and stability. This substantial ballast, combined with its iron fin keel and spade rudder, allows the boat to stand up well to a breeze, contributing to a comfortable motion in a seaway and precise handling. Owners often commend its sailing qualities, noting that it is "fast" even when not sailed optimally and is capable of "long passages at a decent pace." The fin keel is particularly known for providing "splendid manoeuvrability."

Accommodations and Layout

Despite the limited detailed specifications for its interior, the Nicholson 345 is praised by owners for its "lots of space and a great layout." While precise headroom figures are not readily available, the design aimed for a more spacious hull, which would translate into comfortable living quarters below deck. Reviews and owner discussions frequently highlight the thoughtful arrangement of its interior, often characteristic of high-quality British builds of the period. The interior finish, at least on prototype models, was described as "very well finished," suggesting a commitment to quality materials and craftsmanship. Typical layouts would include a functional galley, a comfortable salon, berths for sleeping, and a marine head, all designed to maximize livability for cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Nicholson 345 consistently express satisfaction with the vessel, frequently praising its "amazing sailing and built quality." The boat's robust construction and ability to handle various sea states comfortably are often highlighted, making it a reliable choice for extended cruising. Many appreciate its solid feel and predictable handling, often noting its "good ballast for small" crews, which contributes to its stability and ease of management. While there can be differing opinions on its suitability for single-handed or short-handed sailing, its inherent stability and responsive nature are generally well-regarded. The Nicholson 345 is often viewed as a sensible and well-built yacht, offering both performance and comfort for those seeking a capable cruiser.