The foundation of what would become Nordship Yachts can be traced back to 1978 when Lars Buchwald, a skilled carpenter, established Buchwald Yachtværft. Buchwald initially gained experience by constructing accommodations and working as a sub-contractor for various well-known Danish shipyards. His vision crystallized in 1988 when he acquired the rights to the "Nordship" name. This acquisition marked a pivotal moment, initiating an extensive development program aimed at introducing the first dedicated deck saloon yachts. Buchwald's core motivation was to craft Danish-built, centre cockpit deck saloon yachts specifically engineered for comfortable and safe long-distance voyaging. These early deck saloon yachts, introduced in the early 1990s, set the course for the company, as they now exclusively produce deck saloon models.
History and Evolution
From its beginnings in 1978 as Buchwald Yachtværft, the company transformed significantly with the acquisition of the Nordship rights in 1988. This period ushered in an era focused entirely on deck saloon yachts, a design philosophy that remains central to the brand today. A key milestone in Nordship's recent history is its merger with Faurby Yachts. This strategic move has seen Thomas Dan Hougaard become a joint owner of Nordship Yachts, with Faurby now serving as the home for Nordship's production. Consequently, Nordship's deck saloon yachts are now also referred to as Faurby Deck Saloon models.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Nordship Yachts has carved out a stellar reputation in the sailing world for producing luxurious, high-quality, and handcrafted Danish deck saloon yachts. The brand has become synonymous with quality sailing yachts, confidently holding a leading position in the deck saloon segment. Their vessels are not mass-market productions but rather high-quality custom yachts built in small series, targeting the premium bluewater yacht segment.
A hallmark of Nordship's design philosophy is the emphasis on the deck saloon concept, often combined with a centre cockpit configuration. This design provides exceptional shelter and allows for a spacious, private aft cabin. A signature feature is the raised saloon, which provides excellent panoramic views from within the yacht. Nordship yachts are also known for their customizable interiors, allowing owners significant input into the design and layout to meet their specific needs and wishes. Modern design elements such as wraparound windows and flush-mounted skylights contribute to both the aesthetic appeal and the abundance of natural light within the cabins. Despite their comfort-oriented design, Nordship yachts are described as nimble and rewarding to sail, offering a healthy turn of speed.
Iconic Models and Legacy
Throughout its history, Nordship has introduced several highly regarded models that exemplify its commitment to quality and comfort. Notable among these are the Nordship 380 DS, known for being one of the finest deck saloon yachts in its size range. The Nordship 420 DS has also garnered significant attention, with the first hull already delivered to its owner, showcasing the brand's continuous innovation. Other significant models include the Nordship 500 DS, which received a nomination for the European Yacht of the Year 2023, and the Nordship 360 DS, also a Yacht of the Year Award nominee. The Nordship 570 DS further demonstrates their capability in larger, long-distance cruising yachts. While specific production numbers are not publicly detailed, the company emphasizes that their yachts are produced in "small series" rather than for the mass market, reinforcing their bespoke nature. The brand's focus remains firmly on deck saloon and centre cockpit sailboats, with current production models ranging from 11 to 19 meters.
The Builder Today
Today, Nordship Yachts operates under a joint ownership model, with Thomas Dan Hougaard at the helm following the merger with Faurby Yachts. Faurby has become the new operational base for Nordship, with its deck saloon range now integrated under the Faurby Deck Saloon umbrella. Nordship continues to maintain a leading position in the niche market of sailing yachts with a deck saloon, focusing on building high-quality, custom yachts in small series. The modern Nordship boats appeal to discerning sailors who prioritize safety, comfort, and the ability to undertake long-distance voyages, all within a highly customizable and handcrafted vessel. While an explicit "strong owner community" is not highlighted in search results, the company's detailed historical records, including build files and documentation for every yacht ever built, suggest a dedicated support system for their owners. This commitment ensures that owning a Nordship is a unique and well-supported experience, attracting those who desire a truly personalized and capable bluewater cruising yacht.
