Nordhavn 78 fuses passagemaking with European styling

Dana Point, CA – (January 20, 2010) – Following up their two latest innovative designs, the N56 Motorsailer and the N75 Expedition Yachtfisher, Pacific Asian Enterprises, Inc., has once again stretched the boundaries of their trawler line with the introduction of the Nordhavn 78, a long-range, contemporary-styled yacht.

The N78 will serve to fulfill the needs of the class of boater who wants the proven ocean-crossing capabilities of a Nordhavn combined with the sleek lines comprised by typical European-style yachts. “This design will appeal to a whole faction of clientele who tend not to prefer the traditional expedition-type look of a Nordhavn,” says PAE’s vice president, Jim Leishman. “The N78 will evoke a contemporary European feel without losing the dynamic of being a Nordhavn.”

Key to the design is the emphasis Chief Designer Jeff Leishman has placed on outdoor living, starting with the flybridge. The N78’s flybridge will feature a Jacuzzi, wetbar, barbecue and a large open deck area perfect for entertaining. Meanwhile, the foredeck – a typical lounging hotspot on most European boats – has been designated the ideal outdoor “chilling space.” The cockpit of the N78 has been opened up, too, further enhancing entertaining possibilities.

Another draw of the new 78 is that it better segregates the crew from the owners and their guests. Like the entire Nordhavn product range (with the exception of the N120), the N78 was intended to be operated without a captain. However, Leishman has designed engine room access in the transom so that employed crew can enter the area without impacting company on board.

The new N78 will come equipped with twin engines, have ocean-crossing capabilities with a range of 3,000+ miles and superior fuel efficiency. The interior will feature an updated, modern design aesthetic that includes sumptuous owners’ accommodations and two superb guest rooms all with ensuite heads; crew quarters and off-watch quarters.

Although the lines of the N78 will have a European flair, Nordhavn feels the yacht will appeal to international and American markets alike. “The beauty of this design is that it’s a Nordhavn, so you’ve got comfort and confidence while underway, but the benefits will be realized when you’re not passagemaking,” notes Nordhavn Europe’s Philip Roach. “The added elements will really allow you to enjoy your time on board once you’ve arrived.”

The project is currently underway with the first hull scheduled to complete in early 2011. It will be officially announced at a press event next week at the Dusseldorf Boat Show where PAE President Dan Streech will address the media and offer the latest details on the project.

PRELIMINARY SPECIFICATIONS
LOA: 78′-1 1/4″ (23.8m)
LWL: 69′ 0″ (21.03 m)
BEAM: 21′ 0″ (6.4 m)
DRAFT: 7′ 8″ (2.34 m)
DISPLACEMENT: 252,000 LBS (114.3 METRIC TONS)
WATER: 600 GALLONS (2,271 LITERS)
FUEL: 5700 GALLONS (21,575 LITERS)
HOLDING TANK: 300 GALLONS (1,135 LITERS)
GRAY WATER: 300 GALLONS (1,135 LITERS)
PROPULSION: Twin Cummins QSM11DM-425 Engines
HORSEPOWER: 425 HP@1800 RPM

By Ocean Navigator