Nicholson 35-1 Information, Review, Specs

Designed by the in-house team, often attributed to Peter Nicholson and Raymond Wall, the Nicholson 35-1 quickly established a reputation as a dependable vessel, appealing to those who prioritized safety and comfort over raw speed. Her enduring presence on waters worldwide speaks to the quality and foresight of her original design.

History and Design

The production of the Nicholson 35-1 spanned from 1971 to 1985, a period when Camper & Nicholsons was renowned for its commitment to design and build excellence, ensuring effortless performance and safe, swift cruising experiences. The boatyard, initially established in 1782, had ascended to become one of the world's largest yacht building companies, guided by visionary designers like Charles E. Nicholson. During this era, the firm emphasized durable construction and elegant lines, a philosophy clearly reflected in the Nicholson 35-1. Camper & Nicholsons was an early adopter of isophthalic polyester resin for their hulls, signifying their dedication to quality materials.

The Nicholson 35-1 was designed as a larger sister to the popular Nicholson 32. While the exact designer's philosophy for this specific model isn't explicitly detailed, the overarching goal of Camper & Nicholsons was to create yachts with enduring quality and reliable performance, suitable for both cruising and racing. Throughout its production run, there were some notable variations; later models, particularly after 1977, were fitted with a taller rig, which was likely introduced to enhance performance, especially for the American market. Additionally, the interior design and decor saw minor changes over the years, as the boats were often built to order. Early models also featured the propeller on the back of the keel, a common design for long fin-keeled boats, though later versions transitioned to a more conventional sternshaft and P-bracket.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Nicholson 35-1 exhibits characteristics typical of a heavy displacement cruiser, prioritizing stability and comfort over outright speed. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 13.62, she is moderately canvassed, suggesting she's not a racing boat, but is also not a slug. This ratio indicates that while she may not excel in very light air, she is capable of comfortable performance in a range of conditions.

Her high Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of approximately 46.9% points to excellent stiffness and stability, enabling her to stand up well to a breeze. This substantial ballast contributes significantly to her ability to handle rougher seas with a comfortable, easy motion. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio, around 364.7, further confirms her heavy displacement nature, characteristic of a robust offshore cruiser designed for comfort and safety.

Owners frequently describe the Nicholson 35 as having an easy motion and being very sea-kindly. While not a high-performance racer, she is considered a capable and forgiving boat to sail, particularly appreciated by those undertaking longer passages. The masthead sloop rig, often with double lower shrouds, provides a simple yet effective sail plan.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Nicholson 35-1, while seeing minor variations over its production, typically offers a classic layout well-suited for a couple with occasional guests. Entering the cabin, one often finds a conventional arrangement featuring a private V-berth forward, providing the primary sleeping quarters. A full-width head is usually located aft of the forward cabin, a practical design also used in other Camper & Nicholsons models that is generally considered effective.

The main salon often includes settees that can convert into berths, alongside a fixed or folding table. The galley is typically arranged for practical use at sea, though specific details on its configuration (e.g., L-shaped, linear) would vary by individual boat. Storage is generally well-considered for extended cruising, and the finish quality reflects the high standards of Camper & Nicholsons, often featuring extensive use of wood trim. Ventilation, while not explicitly detailed in all reviews, would typically be managed through overhead hatches and opening ports. The maximum headroom of 6 feet ensures comfortable movement for most individuals below deck.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners consistently praise the Nicholson 35-1 for its robust, solid construction and its exceptional seaworthiness. Many appreciate its comfortable motion in a seaway, making it a favored choice for offshore cruising. The boat's strong build quality often translates to a long lifespan, with many examples still actively sailed today.

However, some common points of discussion among owners include the performance of early models under engine power, particularly due to the propeller's placement behind the keel. Another recurring topic is the potential for osmosis, a concern for many fiberglass boats of this vintage, which potential buyers should investigate. Some owners also note that early versions of the Nicholson 35 were considered "under canvassed" before the introduction of the taller rig in the late 1970s, which improved light-air performance. Maintaining the original engine, often a Perkins 4108, can also present challenges as the boats age. Despite these points, the overwhelming sentiment points to the Nicholson 35-1 as a highly regarded and enduring cruiser.