The North Sea 127 - Design Criterion
This vessel has been specifically designed for ocean cruising and can easily be handled by a crew of two. The sail areas have been broken down into manageable individual sails so that, for example, in the event of a sudden squall the mainsail can be dropped and the vessel sailed to windward if necessary under one or two headsails plus mizzen.
The North Sea 127 has a considerably higher displacement than the large majority of so called 'off shore' vessels built today. this results in a much easier motion in a short sea and provides greater stability and comfort below.
The first impression when stepping aboard this craft is one of strength and safety. The deep centre cockpit with radiused coamings provides shelter and comfort. The centre cockpit and hull form gives additional safety and comfort in a large following sea but is not made so restricted in size that eight people cannot sit in comfort.
The hull form is based on that of the famous Norwegian sailing lifeboats, developed over many decades to cope with heavy breaking seas yet provide the ability to sail in the most severe of gales. The vessel has a long keel hull form with rudder hung from the aft end of the keel by very substantial stainless steel gudgeon. The ballast is fitted inside the hull moulding avoiding keel bolt problems and potential leaks. This cruising yacht is able to set a considerable sail area by extending the deck length by fitting a substantial stainless steel fabricated planked bowsprit thus achieving good performance for a vessel of this displacement in light winds.
As in the rest of the vessel the accommodation below is designed specifically for serious cruising offshore. Those who undertake night passages know how uncomfortable sleeping in a forward cabin can be and thus the general arrangements provide in that area a large shower and toilet space with sail stowage, workshop etc., making this area a sizeable 'wet stowage' space.
The very large main saloon area is fitted with three-sided seating to starboard and single settee berth to port with folding table and ample locker space both port and starboard. The area is beautifully fitted out in teak and teak faced ply with timber surfaces oiled and hand rubbed, except where subjected to wet. The special deck head linings provide added insulation and the lighting arrangements together with the overall fit out give a great sense of quality and 'warmth' aboard.
A double cabin is fitted to starboard amidships rather than the normal arrangements found aboard a vessel of this size with the cramped forward cabin. This cabin is fitted with two spacious bunks, hanging locker space and drawer cupboards.
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