Nordship 666 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Production of the Nordship 666 commenced in 1982, under the stewardship of Buchwald Yachtværft, the precursor to Nordship Yachts. At this time, Lars Buchwald, the founder, was still gaining experience and operating as a sub-contractor, before his pivotal acquisition of the "Nordship" name in 1988, which initiated the development of their signature deck saloon range. The 666, therefore, represents an earlier era for the builder, showcasing their initial foray into designing and constructing more conventional cruising sailboats. Designers Paul Elvström and Jan Kjærulff crafted the 666 with a fin keel and a transom-hung rudder, a configuration typical of performance-oriented small cruisers of its time. Notably, the design aimed for a "slightly more spacy hull design," seeking to maximize interior volume for a boat of its modest dimensions.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Nordship 666 is characterized by its fractional sloop rigging, offering a balance of sail area for its size. Anecdotal evidence suggests that while it may be considered "slightly underrigged" compared to some similar sailboats, its relative speed performance indicates it is faster than 50% of comparable designs. Its fin keel and transom-hung rudder contribute to a nimble and responsive feel on the water, providing direct steering and maneuverability suitable for coastal cruising and day sailing. Given its displacement of 3,527 lbs and a length overall of 21.85 feet, the 666 is likely to offer a steady motion for its size, capable of handling various sea states with confidence.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its compact size, the Nordship 666 was designed with an emphasis on maximizing interior space, described as "more spacy than 58% of all other designs" in its class. The interior is typically finished with teak, lending a classic and warm aesthetic to the cabin. While specific layout details are not extensively documented, a boat of this length generally features a basic arrangement including a V-berth forward, a small galley area, and potentially a head compartment. The design philosophy of creating a "spacy" hull implies a focus on comfortable, if modest, living quarters, providing essential amenities for overnight stays or weekend cruises.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Nordship 666 often appreciate its straightforward nature and ease of maintenance. The boat is generally considered simple to care for, with routine tasks like bottom cleaning and anti-fouling painting requiring minimal effort, often described as "a few hours of work, that's all" annually. This low-maintenance aspect, combined with its robust fiberglass solid hull construction, contributes to its enduring appeal as a practical and accessible sailboat for enthusiasts.