An optimum longdistance cruiser 8 NIMBUS WORLD
Completely in harmony with the ways of the sea, the Nimbus 380 Commander is a boat full of opportunity for families who enjoy the adventure of long voyages. the KIND OF person attracted by the Nimbus 380 Commander looks at not just the model and the brand name, but also at her workmanlike, professional styling. A boat that possesses both seaworthiness and elegance is quite unusual. The 380 Commander comes with many advantages, including a separate wheelhouse, and at the same time features a flying bridge which is surprisingly roomy for a boat of this size. Families who have fallen for this boat s characteristics have twin engines provide excellent manoeuvring ability told us their children originally opted for a swish, ultra-modern flying bridge model. But when they found they could have both a flying bridge and a boat that looks as if it means real business, they clamoured for the 380 Commander. Although those who have used a Nimbus before might be regarded as biased, they do understand the priorities of the brand. If they choose another model of the same make, it suggests they feel they have found something even better. Quite a few customers have bought their 380 Commander, sailed it 2000 nautical miles in the first season and then reported that their expectations have been met in full. The boat has performed brilliantly on all our voyages. What we like most is the working boat aura, that the 380 looks so robust. It feels right, are common comments. At displacement speeds for canal cruising, for example, the Nimbus 380 Commander is excellent. The easy interplay between The wheelhouse is reminiscent of a workboat s, with doors opening onto the deck, and a no-nonsense helm area. NIMBUS WORLD 9
The Commander s flying bridge is roomy, sheltered and very easy to get to.the wheelhouse scores on practicality, with a snug atmosphere and room enough to both sit and stand. shafts and rudders maintains steady directional stability, and the twin engines provide superb manoeuvrability in tight situations. Features such as these are appreciated by sea-faring folk. And of course the twin Volvo Penta KAMD43s of 230 hp each will speed the craft along at 28 knots far more than permissible on inland waterways, but ideal when travelling fast over open lakes or when homeward bound along the coast. Quiet and smoke-free operation are important considerations on longer voyages, as is the sheer weight of the boat, which means safer handling in heavier seas. The 380 s directional stability becomes even more noticeable when the boat is on autopilot: few course adjustments are needed as the boat holds its heading without wandering. When skies are grey, the flying bridge of the 380 Commander might not seem particularly inviting, but rigged out in full foul weather gear, outdoor lovers can sit up here and defy the elements in relative comfort. The windscreen deflects wind and wet away from the recessed helm, and the seat height is as good as on a workboat. I prefer to sit on the flying bridge, says another owner. It feels good up there, looking out over my surroundings. But the best thing about the 380 is that it is built so ruggedly. Owners also like to point out that the midships companionway provides much easier access between wheelhouse and The usage grade of the wheelhouse is optimum, with a snug atmosphere and room enough to both sit and stand. 10 NIMBUS WORLD
Light and airy, tidy and practical.the saloon features a U-sofa, angled galley and a folding table at the point of maximum beam. flying bridge than the aft ladder. More practicality is provided by the side doors, enabling the skipper to be on deck quickly to attend to fenders and mooring ropes. The doors are also ideal when coming alongside and jumping onto the jetty, allowing the Nimbus 380 Commander to be handled confidently by one person. This in turn is a sign of a good long-distance boat, and an asset for experienced sailors who enjoy the challenge of handling their boats themselves. The wheelhouse is large enough to accommodate three people, one taking the helm while the others can look after the navigation. The passenger seat is wide enough for two adults, and with standing room for one more, the wheelhouse has room for a whole family. In harbour, the navigation area can be used for recording the doors are ideal when coming alongside and jumping onto the jetty the day s events and planning the next day s cruise. And as it should be, the chart table is big enough to spread out a fullsized chart. The crew can take dinner in the saloon, which enjoys a simple and practical layout, with the large galley along the whole of one side and the U-sofa opposite. Although both galley and sofa have been fitted in below the level of the side decks, the whole area still feels spacious. While this arrangement aft is somewhat radical, the layout forward of the wheelhouse is more conventional. The children can sleep in the guest cabin to port, while their parents occupy the forecabin. With the insert panel in place even those on the tall side will find they have plenty of sleeping room. A genuine blue water sailor will like the heavy mast, large enough to take several antennae, is collapsible for inland waterway s cruising the seamanlike qualities of the 380 Commander, with room for coiling ropes smartly on the aft rail, for example, fender compartments and a weatherproof cover that fits snugly over the flying bridge. Such touches increase pride of ownership a common denominator for Nimbus owners in general and Commander lovers in particular. Other good seagoing features of the 380 include the heavy mast, large enough to take various antennae but collapsible for canal and waterways cruising; the generously proportioned bollards, the solidity of the guardrails and the practical rubber fendering fitted right around the boat to minimise the risk of damaging the hull. The broad side decks, providing plenty of room to walk about the boat in safety, add further to the Commander s seamanlike appeal. NIMBUS WORLD 11
One of the nicest things about the 380 is the way provokes spontaneous praise: from guests aboard, from other boating people and from seagoing professionals. Owners confirm that its seaworthy look, teak lantern boxes, the height of the deckhouse and overall design make the 380 feel exactly right. The joinery too, invites admiration. Experienced sailors often comment on the Nimbus finish, and those who pay particular attention to edges, roof linings and hidden corners will not be disappointed all these details are extremely well fitted. The woodwork, in teak with matching bulkheads and panels in a classic, golden brown, satisfy the most demanding tastes. As does the varnish work and the wood fixtures, thickly coated with a medium matt finish. The high standard of the 380 s interior is the jewel in its crown, guaranteed by Nimbus s well-organised production systems, its commitment to being the best and its ability to deliver overall quality. The construction techniques used in building the 380 Commander might seem less glamorous than the fine detailing of the interior, but they reflect the company s overall philosophy. Nimbus is one of the few boatbuilders to employ third-party scrutiny of procedures, choice of materials, installation and the end result. This quality assurance is provided by DNV (Det Norske Veritas) and means you can be assured your 380 Commander has a strong and rigid hull laminate, and that the engine installation, fuel system, electrics, steering, windows, tanks, ventilation, LPG and fire protection all accord with CE standards. Inspectors make random and unannounced checks, verifying drawings and carrying out internal inspections to guarantee quality. Nimbus prefers to rely on the impartiality of DNV to ensure each boat meets the proper standards. So the Nimbus 380 Commander offers the long-distance sailor seaworthiness, an attractive appearance, beautiful finish, superior inner quality and a lasting residual value. Why settle for anything less? 380 Commander specifications Length 11.50 m Beam 3.60 m Displacement 6800 kg Water 430 litres Fuel 755 litres Engines 22VP TAMD44 Power 22230 hp 22169 kw Cruising speed approx 25 knots Top speed approx 32 knots Range approx 300 nautical miles Plus points Seaworthy design Smooth running straight drive shafts good cruising speed Carefully thought-out layout Businesslike appearance 12 NIMBUS WORLD The attractive cabin contains a comfortable double berth for those who appreciate generous space.