Nordship 808 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The genesis of the Nordship 808 lies with the collaboration of legendary sailor Paul Elvstrøm and accomplished designer Jan Kjærulff, who formed Elvstrøm & Kjærulff Yacht Design in the early 1970s. Their design philosophy typically encompassed offshore racing and cruising craft, aiming for practical and seaworthy vessels. While specific design goals for the 808 are not extensively documented, its specifications suggest an emphasis on stability and respectable sailing characteristics for its size. The vessel was notably built with a balsa core sandwich hull construction, a method chosen for its strength and rigidity. During its production run, the rig size of the Nordship 808 varied, with some versions, such as the Nordship 808S or Sportrigg, offering different sail plans. The boat's identity also evolved, as it was known as the Granada 808, with some sources indicating that Granada Yachts initially produced it before 1983.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Nordship 808's design metrics provide insight into its likely on-water behavior. With a Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 22.7, she possesses a relatively high sail area for her displacement, suggesting good performance in lighter winds and responsiveness to gusts. Her Ballast to Displacement ratio is notably high at 0.50, indicating exceptional stiffness and stability. This robust ballasting allows the Nordship 808 to stand up well to a breeze, reducing heeling and providing a more comfortable motion in a seaway. The Displacement to Length ratio, at around 257, places her firmly in the medium-heavy cruiser category. This suggests a solid, sea-kindly vessel that prioritizes comfort and stability over outright speed, capable of handling various conditions with poise.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its compact length overall of 26.5 feet, the Nordship 808 was designed to maximize interior volume for comfortable cruising. The boat typically features a layout that provides six berths, making it suitable for families or a small crew. A functional galley is also incorporated, catering to basic onboard cooking needs. While specific details regarding the finish quality or the choice of interior materials are not widely detailed in public records, Danish boatbuilders of this era were generally known for their quality craftsmanship and sensible use of space. The internal arrangement is typical of a boat of its size, balancing sleeping areas with a usable salon and cooking facilities.