“For me to transition from monohull sailing and to consider the right type of boat for the Swedish archipelago, I was very conscious about my decision of what type of boat I would need and the partner to help with my boat ownership. It was always a matter of compromises, but the decision was cemented with me after I had both seen the shipyard and spoken to the owners of Nautitech, where I got the impression that they mostly shared the same stories and valued the same things in a sailing yacht as me. Through the help of Yacht-Match and the team, I’ve got the right partner that have helped with the decisions and planning that I needed and the continuous support for my ownership here in Sweden”. – Len Börjesson, S/Y Norrsken.
Len’s Nautitech 40 Open journey. From decision to adventure.
Finding the perfect boat is no easy task – it is often a journey filled with countless decisions and considerations. But for Len, an experienced sailor, choosing the Nautitech 40 Open, along with support from the Yacht-Match team throughout the entire process, proved to be the ideal solution..
The journey begins
Join us on his journey from the first encounter with the boat to the unforgettable adventure. From La Rochelle to Gothenburg, along Brittany, Guernsey, the Dutch North Sea coast and around Denmark, to western Sweden. Discover what makes the Nautitech 40 Open a sailor’s dream and why Len is ready for new adventures in Gothenburg. You might be inspired to experience the difference with this high-performing catamaran. Read on to discover how to test sail this remarkable vessel this summer.
A passionate sailor’s journey
Len began sailing at the age of 13 and has since owned and sailed several impressive boats. After many years with monohulls, he and his wife felt it was time for a change and decided on a catamaran. Following extensive research and an inspiring visit to the boat show in Cannes in 2021, they met the Yacht-Match team for the first time. The team provided guidance throughout the entire process, making them feel supported and confident in their decision. Ultimately, they chose the Nautitech 40 Open – the perfect balance of sailing performance and comfor
First impressions
The family agreed on the name Norrsken, inspired by the enchanting Northern Lights that illuminate the skies in northern latitudes. The Norrsken, or Northern Lights, symbolises not only the beauty of nature but also the spirit of adventure and discovery – precisely the emotions Len sought to experience on his journey. The beauty of the Northern Lights is a sight to behold, and it’s a feeling that Len wanted to capture in his sailing experience.
The delivery
The delivery of Norrsken took place in two phases. Initially in La Rochelle in December 2023 and then the homeward voyage to Sweden in May 2024. The homeward voyage marked the beginning of the true adventure. With advice and support from the Yacht-Match team, Len sailed towards Sweden. Despite challenging weather conditions, the boat proved to be stable and easy to handle, making the journey both exciting and memorable.
Sailing experiences and performance
Sailing the yacht was a dream come true for Len. The boat’s speed and manoeuvrability, even in strong winds and rough seas, were awe-inspiring. A memorable moment was sailing in the Dutch North Sea, where the boat reached speeds of up to 17 knots while surfing down the waves. Sailing this catamaran was not only efficient but also incredibly enjoyable.
See the Boat test in Sweden of the Nautitech 40 Open: Boat Test in 40 knots of wind!
Skippo, the leading Swedish digital boat magazine, did a never-before-seen boat test of a cruising catamaran in what would have been nightmare conditions for any other production series cruising catamaran on the market. The test took place right after the “Öppet Varv” boat show at the infamous Hallberg-Rassy shipyard on the island of Ellös on the west coast of Sweden. Both reporters, Gustav Morin and Alfred Ahlberg went out with the owner of the boat and the team from Yacht-Match sailing the Ellösefjorden and passed the infamous Gullholmen as the boat was prepped for a real treat for anyone that loves sailing and want to test the boat how it it behaves in weather and rough seas.
Comfort and life onboard
The comfort onboard Nautitech 40 Open Norrsken is unparalleled. The ‘open’ concept of the Nautitech catamarans merges the saloon and cockpit into one large living area by opening up the large sliding doors. This design, along with the cockpit enclosures, creates a perfect space for hosting family and friends. The glass doors between the saloon and cockpit, along with the cockpit enclosures, have been particularly appreciated during rainy days, creating a warm and cozy environment.
Memorable experiences and challenges
Exploring Brittany’s wild coast and the accessible marina in St. Peter Port on Guernsey were some of the journey’s highlights. Managing tidal currents and anchoring were initial challenges but soon became routine. Waking up in a quiet bay and enjoying the view through the large hull windows was a magical experience.
Future plans and advice
The future for Norrsken looks bright. Planned trips include Sweden’s west coast, Hamburgsund, Grebbestad, Fjällbacka, and possibly a trip to Copenhagen. For those considering a catamaran, Len recommends renting one for a week or two to discover what sailing a catamaran is about before buying. He often wonders why catamarans aren’t more popular in the Nordic region, given their stability, spaciousness, and unique sailing experience. Unlike traditional monohulls, catamarans provide a smoother ride with practically no heel, making them ideal for longer voyages and family trips.
An elegance that stands out in Nordic waters
While out sailing, Len frequently receives curious glances and questions from fellow sailors. They are intrigued by the impressive Norrsken and its performance. Additionally, the double hulls of the catamaran offer ample living space and comfort. This design draws attention in every harbour. Furthermore, it showcases a different kind of sailing elegance that stands out in Nordic waters.
Comparison with competitors and key factors
Nautitech 40 Open became Len’s clear choice after considering several leading catamarans on the market, including Lagoon 40, Fountaine Pajot Lucia 40, and Excess 11. Designed by the legendary naval architect Marc Lombard, this model features a sleeker, more tapered hull design, offering a more stable and responsive sailing experience.
Lombard, renowned for his innovative and high-performance designs, crafted a boat that appeals to sailors seeking the comfort of a catamaran without sacrificing sailing sensation. The lightweight and rigid construction not only provides superior sailing performance but also ensures reliable quality in both engine installation and steering systems. These characteristics make the Nautitech 40 Open an enticing choice for sailors looking to experience the best of both worlds.
A journey of adventure
Len’s journey with Norrsken is a story of adventure, learning, and unforgettable memories. This story shows how the right boat can turn the dream of long-distance sailing into a pleasant reality. Now safely moored in Gothenburg, the multihull is ready for new adventures.
Curious to sail the Nautitech 40 Open?
Experience freedom and adventure with this incredible catamaran on the Swedish East Coast this summer or rent one of our many Nautitech 40 Opens in Greece or Croatia.
Len appreciated the fundamentally different yachting experience that Yacht-Match offers. We supported him throughout the entire process, from initial consultation to sailing, and continue to provide ongoing support for his needs.
If you also want to experience a seamless and enjoyable journey with a transparent and customer-centric approach tailored to your unique needs, contact us to learn more and book your test sail.
