Nordship 40 DS Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The creation of the Nordship 40 DS in 2004 marked a significant addition to Nordship's acclaimed line of deck saloon yachts, ranging from 36 to 43 feet. Nordship Yachts, with roots tracing back to Lars Buchwald's Buchwald Yachtværft in 1978 and the acquisition of the "Nordship" name in 1988, has consistently focused on crafting deck saloon vessels. The design ethos behind the 40 DS, consistent with the broader Nordship philosophy, emphasizes a timeless aesthetic combined with a modern hull and rigging, prioritizing ease of handling. This dedication to bespoke quality meant that each Nordship boat, including the 40 DS, could be significantly customized to meet individual owner needs and interior layout preferences. Notably, the robust hull design of the Nordship 40 DS proved so successful that it later served as the foundation for the Nordship 420 DS.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Nordship 40 DS, with its dimensions, is designed to be a capable and rewarding cruiser. Possessing a reported sail area of 937 square feet and a displacement of 23,148 pounds, she boasts a Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 18.42. This figure suggests good performance, particularly in lighter air, indicating she can move well even when winds are moderate. Her ballast-to-displacement ratio stands at around 0.362 (8,377 lbs ballast on 23,148 lbs displacement), which contributes to a decent level of stiffness and stability, allowing her to stand up to a healthy breeze. The Displacement to Length ratio, calculated at approximately 233.27, positions her as a moderate displacement cruiser, striking a balance between light performance-oriented vessels and heavier, more traditional designs.

The sailing characteristics of the Nordship 40 DS are widely described as nimble and rewarding, offering a healthy turn of speed., 6] Her powerful sailplan, combined with a self-tacking jib and all lines led back to the cockpit, makes her notably easy to handle, even for short-handed cruising. Owners can expect a solid long-range boat with a robust and durable hull, capable of performing well in various sea states.

Accommodations and Layout

The Nordship 40 DS is characterized by its signature deck saloon configuration, a hallmark of the builder's design philosophy. This arrangement, often complemented by a center cockpit, allows for a particularly spacious and private aft cabin, a desirable feature for long-distance voyaging., 6] A defining element is the raised saloon, which provides excellent panoramic views from within the yacht, enhancing the sense of space and connection to the outside environment.

While the exact interior layout can vary significantly due to Nordship's emphasis on customization, the typical arrangement often includes a U-shaped sofa around a large dining table in the port side of the deck saloon. The interior is known for its high-quality, handcrafted finish, reflecting Nordship's commitment to luxurious materials and execution., 14] Natural light is abundant, thanks to modern design elements such as wraparound windows and flush-mounted skylights. Storage is ample, with significant height beneath the raised saloon floorboards for stowing provisions and gear. Overall, the Nordship 40 DS provides extremely comfortable living spaces, designed for extended periods aboard.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners frequently praise the Nordship 40 DS for its robust construction and comfortable motion, particularly in a seaway, solidifying its reputation as a reliable bluewater cruiser. The vessel's ease of handling, even with a self-tacking jib, is a consistent point of appreciation, making her suitable for couples or those who prefer simpler sailing. Its overall quality and the ability to customize the interior to specific needs are highly valued, contributing to a reported customer review rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars. 7, 10, Builder Article While specific recurring problems are not widely highlighted in owner discussions, the builder's commitment to maintaining detailed historical records for every yacht ever built suggests a strong support system for owners, ensuring a well-supported experience.