Those who still think Jeanneau only makes sailboats should think again. This builder offers a wide variety of motor boats including high-end models through its Prestige Division. In fact, since 2009 Jeanneau has introduced no less than 10 new models, as part of its larger goal to boost its North American presence with a broader selection. Last year, Jeanneau introduced the NC11, the first model in a new line that sets itself apart with an extraordinary design concept.
Joined this year by its little brother, the NC9, the NC11 features a genuinely European style, combining the look of a trawler and a conventional sports yacht. Jeanneau aims to offer boats with unrivalled panoramic views as well as maximized living space. As a result, the NC11 may not sweep you off your feet at first glance, but it won us over fairly quickly thanks to its exceptional functionality. In short, this boat is worth checking out. With its reasonable size, 34’7” (10.55 m) length and 12’2” (3.73 m) beam, the NC11 is well prepared to take on choppy water without a mishap.
A matter of extending the seasons
In terms of style, NC models are distinguished by their long, low, flat roofs that cover most of the boat. This lends the craft a compact look, particularly as the cockpit reaches rather far forward, leaving just a short foredeck. This is in marked contrast to the sleek lines of sports models with their long noses and cabins set near the stern. The NC11 has a much more classic design, a feature not everyone will love. On board, this design is actually quite practical, as it maximizes the boat’s interior space. And frankly, isn’t that where all the real action is? You get a large living space that is almost entirely protected from bad weather. As a result, this model allows you to extend the seasons and enjoy the pleasures of boating no matter what Mother Nature has in store.
Two doors on either side of the bench provide access to the aft deck through the swim platform, which is in fact an extension of the deck. The entire stern looks like a large, open space covered with a slatted wooden floor, thus creating a wide, welcoming space. Only the stern bench divides the space, but it can be slid forward to provide a larger swim area. Alternatively, it can slide right back to maximize cockpit space. As everything is on the same level, this deck extends into the inside, while sliding glass doors separate the indoor quarters from the outdoor space. Opening them creates a long, flat surface from the foredeck to the stern, a real dance floor! This is one of the features that serve as the foundation for the NC11’s modularity. Finally, two panels in the stern deck provide access to practical storage space and the engine compartment.
Friendly space inside
Inside, the NC11 reveals a large, well-lit living space with excellent visibility thanks to the panoramic windows. There is a magnificent, 360-degree view. You never feel stifled, even with several passengers on board. A large power sunroof adds to this open feeling, providing more light and giving you the chance to pilot a boat under the open sky.
There’s no shortage of modular features on board, either. There are two benches that can seat four for a meal. Their reversible backs let you turn the first into a navigation bench facing forward, while the second will let you enjoy the view to the stern or an outdoor meal once the doors are open. Put them together to create a berth, as needed. That’s what I call making the most of what you’ve got!
Opening into the cockpit, the galley does not take up much room, nor does it isolate anyone. You can prepare your favourite dishes while enjoying the view and the company of the other passengers instead of being trapped in the cabin below. All galley features are elegantly hidden in a wooden cabinet, which adds to the boat’s trendy style. On board the NC11, forget about wide driving stations. This one – which allows you to pilot from the left, an unusual feature – is discreet and does not take up much space. Everything is minimalist and very low-key. Another unusual feature, the door to the left of the pilot’s seat, gives you quick and easy access to the catwalk, allowing the boat to be tied up practically single-handedly.
All in all, the lower deck layout is rather simple. Going down port side, you find a full head including a separate shower opposite the guest berth. This berth receives a good amount of light thanks to the large portholes. Finally, the forward accommodations have a double island berth, several practical storage spaces and private access to the head.
On the water
Looking at the space allotted to the driving station, you might be inclined to think that the Jeanneau NC11 puts a lot more emphasis on its role as a second home than on the joy of navigating the water. To a certain extent, this is true – especially if you’re the type who likes to drive with your hair flowing in the wind. If that’s the case, you might feel like you’re trapped inside, despite the retractable roof. Nevertheless, our test model performed quite well on the water, which surprised us. We expected a heavy, unresponsive boat, but that wasn’t the case.
The NC11 comes with just one type of engine system, a pair of Volvo D3 engines with 200 hp each. Jeanneau opted for sterndrives rather than conventional shafts, which allows it to offer a joystick control system as a standard option, a feature that simplifies docking manoeuvres. In short, it makes piloting the NC11 quite simple and eliminates a great deal of the stress related to driving a boat of this size. Four hundred hp won’t propel it to the top of the list of fastest-accelerating boats, but it’s enough at cruising speed. We reached an ideal cruising speed of 25.7 mph (4.4 km/h) at 3,000 rpm, which is quite reasonable for a boat of this size. We were particularly astonished by its fuel consumption of 12 gallons (45 litres) per hour.
At maximum engine speed, we reached a top speed of 38 mph (61 km/h), which is pretty fast when you consider the boat’s weight and size. However, most of the time we preferred to navigate at lower speeds in order to appreciate the view and life on board. With its size, the Jeanneau NC11 provides stable, secure performance, even on the waves. Its weight and generous beam work in its favour.
The Jeanneau NC11 may not blow you away at first sight, but when you explore it a little further, you’ll come to appreciate the innovation that went into it. Each of the boat’s features is well-thought-out. Spending time on board comes with very few compromises. If you’re looking for the good life on board, this model could very well be for you.
Review boat provided by: Groupe Performance Marine