Nelson Marek

Extensively and meticulously refitted Complete list of refit works and August 2023 Survey available on request 157 High resolution images and extensive video walkthroughs available on request Seaward Sapphire is a rare example of a meticulously restored 1991 4/6-berth, Nelson 45 motor yacht, a classic fast seagoing craft built for reliability, speed and safety. This Nelson 45 has recently undergone a complete refit by the current owners with sympathetic attention to the original design detail and aesthetics, making her one of the most immaculate examples of this type on the market today. From the bilges to the top of the mast head, every detail has been restored, refurbished or replaced, with systems and accommodation upgraded to modern expectations. This Nelson 45 was designed by Arthur Mursell of TT Boat Designs and built to exacting specifications in Guernsey by Seaward Marine. She has all the original teak rubbing strakes and timber detailing in immaculate condition, characteristic Nelson rubber D fender, heavy duty alloy deck fittings, Lofrans windlass, and many other original features and details that have been carefully restored. The hull and deck mouldings are exceptionally heavyweight GRP with sturdy bulkheads, deeply profiled ribs and stringers and steel reinforced engine girders. These build features are what gives the Nelson 45, and this vessel in particular, such a reputation for seaworthiness and strength. Mechanical systems are equally robust: a pair of 370 hp Ford Sabre diesel engines drive 26" bronze propellers through 1 ¼" stainless steel propeller shafts, with the capacity to achieve a comfortable 22 knots. Throttle and gearboxes are operated by Kobelt dual station controls in conjunction with upper and lower helm hydraulic steering positions. The hull has a round bilge form with a long keelson, a raked stem and transom stern. The superstructure consists of fore and side decks with a forward coach roof, a wheelhouse/deck saloon, and raised aft deck with upper steering position. The Nelson Heritage The Nelson evokes widespread admiration for its functional beauty, traditional good looks and sea worthiness. In the early '60s Peter Thornycroft, who went on to found TT Boat Designs, conceived an optimum semi-displacement hull form, capable of much higher speeds than a conventional displacement vessel. This new concept sparked the creation of the original Nelson 34, followed by the Nelson 40 and other variants, including the Nelson 45, in commercial and leisure versions.
 
In the commercial field, although the Nelson was extensively used by the Navy it  became the definitive pilot boat, capable of ferrying pilots safely between ship and shore whatever the weather. By way of illustration, Seaward Sapphire was delivered from Northern Ireland to Pwllheli in a force 7 by the late Jeff Lancaster, who said he wouldn't have missed it for the world! The Nelson Boat Owners Club website outlines the design principle behind the Nelson series: 'A long waterline, moderate beam, high bows and round bilges ensure excellent handling throughout the speed range, designed for fuel efficiency and a soft ride at semi- planning speeds. Nelsons can better maintain speeds in heavy weather and are vastly more comfortable on passage than chine planing power craft'.