Nicholson 70 Information, Review, Specs

This grand dame of the seas carries the distinguished heritage of Camper & Nicholsons, a builder renowned for crafting yachts of unparalleled excellence and enduring quality for over two centuries. The 70 was a statement of their continued commitment to robust construction and elegant design in the fiberglass era.

The story of the Nicholson 70 begins in 1975, marking an era when Camper & Nicholsons, under the guidance of Peter Nicholson, sought a designer with significant "flair" to lead their sailing yacht division. This vision was realized through the work of Raymond Wall, who became the Chief Designer (Sail) for the esteemed yard. The Nicholson 70 was not a mass-production vessel but a semi-custom series, with only seven or eight hulls built, commencing in 1975 and continuing into at least 1977. This limited production run underscores its bespoke nature, with individual yachts often tailored to their owners' exacting specifications.

Camper & Nicholsons' manufacturing ethos, deeply ingrained by this period, prioritized design and build excellence, aiming to produce vessels capable of effortless performance and safe cruising experiences. This commitment is evident in the Nicholson 70, a yacht intended to withstand the rigors of serious offshore sailing effectively. While no specific "MkI" or "MkII" designations are commonly noted, the semi-custom nature of the build meant that each vessel could incorporate unique features or modifications based on owner preferences, with Camper & Nicholsons often managing the styling and interior design aspects.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of 70 feet and a long waterline of 54.5 feet, the Nicholson 70 boasts a substantial presence on the water. Her displacement of 111,700 pounds relative to her waterline length results in a Displacement to Length ratio reported around 308. This figure firmly places her in the category of a heavy displacement cruiser, indicating a powerful, seaworthy yacht with a comfortable motion in a seaway, rather than a light-air racer.

The Nicholson 70 is rigged as a ketch, a choice that offers significant advantages for a vessel of her size, allowing for a more easily managed sail plan with smaller, more versatile sails compared to a single large mainsail. Her reported Sail Area to Displacement ratio is approximately 13.87. This relatively low ratio suggests that while she is undoubtedly capable of efficient progress, she is designed to perform best in moderate to strong breezes, carrying her canvas with authority. She is not intended to be a light-air ghoster but a steady, powerful performer that maintains momentum through waves. Owners consistently describe her as an "ocean cruising ketch" and an "extremely safe sailing yacht capable of cruising all oceans with small crew". Her fin keel and skeg-hung rudder configuration provide a good balance of directional stability for offshore passages and responsive handling, allowing her to track well even in challenging conditions. With a theoretical hull speed of 9.89 knots, she is capable of making swift progress when conditions allow.

Accommodations and Layout

The Nicholson 70 was designed from the outset with luxurious and extensive accommodations in mind, befitting a yacht intended for extended offshore cruising and comfortable living. While specific headroom figures are not readily available, the vessel's substantial beam of 17.08 feet and overall volume would naturally suggest a spacious interior.

Typical layouts for the Nicholson 70 feature a lavish arrangement often including a master double cabin aft, complete with private facilities, alongside three twin VIP guest cabins. Additionally, provisions for a dedicated twin crew cabin are often incorporated, reflecting her capacity for professional crewing on longer voyages. The interior finish would have adhered to Camper & Nicholsons' high standards, likely featuring rich wood joinery, quality fabrics, and robust hardware, creating a classic and enduring marine ambiance. Attention to detail in ventilation and storage would have been paramount, ensuring comfort and practicality for extended periods at sea. Reviews highlight the semi-custom nature meant that many interiors would have been tailored to the original owner's specific tastes, though always within a framework of comfort and seaworthiness.