Cruise-Worthy

Sweden has given the world such iconic offerings as ABBA, Ikea, gummy fish and cocktail meatballs, and now it brings another cultural prize stateside: Nimbus Boats. The builder's first launch here is the style-meets-function 365 Coupé.

Underfoot in the cockpit, two hatches open to a voluminous engine compartment. A single 435 hp Volvo Penta D6 diesel engine is nestled in an enclosed, insulated engine box, reducing mechanical noise. Owners can also choose twin 300 hp Volvo Penta D4s. Standard bow and stern thrusters ease close-quarters handling and make docking no sweat.

Inside, the galley to starboard looks like a mahogany credenza, but the bifold cover opens to reveal a recessed three-burner Dometic electric cooktop with flip-up backsplash next to double stainless-steel sinks. It’s perfect for whipping up a meal. Also here: a Sharp microwave, Isotherm fridge and freezer, drawers for china and silverware, and a pullout cabinet for crystal and cups.

All of these big-boat features led me to use the term “pocket yacht” when speaking with Christer Lundqwist, president of Nimbus Boats of America. “What are you referring to?” he asks. I explain that it’s the ability to build in the form and function typically found on larger yachts, but in a smaller platform.

A pleased look comes over his face. Then he shows me more.

Meals can be served at the aft deck’s teak table or at the portside U-shaped settee with hi-lo folding mahogany table, which has built-in cup holders. The forward settee flips up and forward, transforming it into the portside helm seat. Clever. The captain is part of the social mix with the helm just forward of the galley. It’s compact in width, with vertical tiers of switches, gauges and a Simrad 12-inch display. A single-pane windshield, large side windows and glass doors aft add to the already clean sight lines forward.

A master stateroom is belowdecks and forward, with closet, vanity and head with shower stall (yes, that’s right). A second stateroom is ideal for the kids.

Thoughtful nooks and crannies for stowage are everywhere — under seats, in the swim platform, in-deck, inside cabinets and more. Even the fenders on this boat have dedicated stowage, in an open rack on the transom.

Nimbus Boats has a heritage built on seakeeping ability, safety and maximum cruising comfort. The Nimbus 365 Coupé delivers on all three points.

The Nimbus 305 Coupé is a well-designed day boat built by people who clearly know what it’s like to spend time on the water. Her cockpit, bathing platform and salon are all on one easily navigable level, and seating in the living area abounds. Large windows let in light and air, keeping everything breezy — in more ways than one.