Camper & Nicholsons Nicholson 58 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Nicholson 58 is a powerful, heavy-displacement machine (displacing approximately 55,000 lbs) that excels in offshore conditions. Unlike many cruisers of its era that prioritize volume over velocity, the Pedrick-designed hull is a "go-fast, go-anywhere" machine capable of clocking 250-mile days under the right conditions. Most hulls were configured as staysail ketches, a rig that provides a versatile array of sail combinations to maintain balance across a wide range of wind speeds.

Handling is characterized by stability and "grace," with the weight of the solid fiberglass and Kevlar-reinforced hull providing a soft motion even in confused seas. A notable technical variation found on some hulls is a centerboard configuration, allowing the draft to extend from a modest 6'8" to over 13' for superior upwind performance. Even without the centerboard, the semi-long fin keel provides excellent tracking. While not a light-air specialist, the inclusion of a mizzen staysail and Code Zero on many modern-refitted examples allows the 58 to remain competitive when the wind dips.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Nicholson 58 is a showcase of traditional British shipwrighting, featuring extensive teak joinery that is often described as having an "everlasting" quality. The layout typically features four cabins and can accommodate up to nine berths, making it an ideal platform for long-term liveaboard families or crewed charters. The master suite is located aft, often featuring a "French bed" (island double) and en-suite facilities, separated from the main salon by a corridor that often houses a dedicated workbench or walk-in engine access.

The salon is spacious, with headroom reaching approximately 6'9" (2.05m), providing an airy feel that belies the boat's traditional lines. Ventilation is a high priority, with large deck hatches and classic deck prisms used to flood the lower decks with natural light. Variations between the 12 hulls exist; some owners opted for a "galley-down" configuration to maximize salon seating, while others preferred a layout that prioritized a large navigation station for serious ocean passage-making.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Nicholson 58’s most significant claim to fame is its DNA in the Clipper 60. When Sir Robin Knox-Johnston needed a hull that could withstand the rigors of amateur crews racing around the world, he looked to the Nicholson 58. This lineage is frequently cited in maritime literature as a testament to the hull's "forgiving" nature in the roughest conditions. Individual yachts like Roxy and Telmina have become well-known in the blue-water community for their extensive global circuits and presence in major sailing hubs like Annapolis and the French Riviera.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should focus their due diligence on the following high-signal areas common to Nicholson yachts of this vintage:

• Teak Deck Longevity: These yachts were originally delivered with thick teak decks (often 15mm). After 40 years, many have reached the end of their life. Look for evidence of re-caulking or full replacement, as a failure here can lead to moisture ingress in the cored sections of the deck.
• Complex Systems: As a ketch with multiple powered winches, furling systems, and substantial electrical requirements (often 24V), the Nicholson 58 requires a sophisticated maintenance schedule. Check for "original" wiring that may need upgrading to handle modern lithium or solar integrations.
• Keel and Centerboard: On centerboard variants, the lifting mechanism and pivot pin require a thorough underwater inspection to ensure there is no significant play or corrosion within the trunk.
• Engine Access & Exhaust: While engine access is generally good, the Perkins Sabre units common in these hulls require inspection of the heat exchangers and the water-cooled exhaust systems, which are prone to scaling over decades of use.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for owners is the Nicholson Yachts Association, which provides technical support and historical archives for the various Nicholson models. While the 58 is a rare model within the group, the shared construction techniques across the Nicholson 35, 39, and 55 models mean that the association's technical wikis are invaluable for understanding the specific layup and joinery techniques used by Camper & Nicholsons.

The Verdict

Pros:

• Exceptional Pedigree: One of the finest examples of British yacht building history.
• Ocean Performance: Capable of high-speed passages and remarkably stable in heavy weather.
• Build Quality: Solid fiberglass/Kevlar hull construction that exceeds modern "production" standards.
• Liveability: Immense interior volume with stand-up headroom and high-grade joinery.

Cons:

• Maintenance Intensity: Multiple masts, complex rigging, and older systems require a significant budget.
• Draft Limitations: Unless equipped with the centerboard, the deep fin can limit access to shallower cruising grounds.
• Rarity: With only 12 built, finding a well-maintained example can take years of searching.