This is the third model in the Swedish yard’s range of 30ft sportsboats and in some ways the most exciting; while the W9 is a weekend cruiser and the C9 a fully enclosed commuter, the Nimbus T9 is the closest thing yet to an open sportsboat
Out goes the Nimbus W9’s offset helm console, elongated sidescreens, outdoor galley and large L-shaped dinette and in comes a slimmer centre console with a truncated wrap-around screen, a funky fold-out wet bar, a tiny drinks fridge (both optional) and a neat little horseshoe of seating in the stern that makes up into a sunpad.
It’s a similar story up front where the W9’s flat foredeck and sunpad make way for sunken walkaround decks and a small forward-facing bench seat. It’s not necessarily a prettier design but it does look lighter, sportier and more purposeful. It’s a very versatile day boat that still retains the ability to overnight in a surprising degree of comfort.
The first thing you notice is just how safe and easy it is to move around the decks. This is a true walkaround design with tall, protective bulwarks and wide, flat sidedecks running all the way from the twin bathing platforms to the squared off pulpit in the bow. Sturdy stainless steel handrails follow your every step with additional grab handles on the centre console and wet bar to steady your progress.
There are lockers in both stern quarters for lines and fenders and three generous oval section cleats on each side. The helm area is recessed a few inches into the deck to give greater protection from the wind and the dash itself is the epitome of Scandinavian minimalism with space for either one big single MFD or two smaller ones on the console and a smattering of smart backlit switches for lights, wipers and bilge pumps.
How easy it is to keep free of salt marks remains to be seen. What is certain is that it’s a lovely place to sit or stand with excellent ergonomics.
To read our full review of the Nimbus T9, pick up the November 2019 edition of Motor Boat & Yachting, out October 10.
