A couple’s boat with lots of character, the Nordic Tugs 34 is designed for the Great Loop, the Inside Passage or a summer excursion to the rocky shores and hidden coves of Down East Maine. A semi-displacement trawler, the Nordic Tugs 34 is a salty, comfortable, single-diesel cruiser that’s easy to manage and maintain, while retaining the company’s iconic tugboat lines, including the faux smokestack.
The 34 is an outgrowth of the popular Nordic Tugs 32, which the company first built in 1985. (Nordic Tugs started with a 26 that was introduced at the Seattle boat show in 1980, and it has kept the same basic looks ever since.) The major difference between the 34 and the 32 is a larger forward cabin, with a walkaround berth instead of a V-berth, and a larger head below, making it more comfortable to spend long periods of time on board.
The pilothouse has sliding doors on either side, giving access to both side decks. It also has 360-degree views, with large front windows, side windows and glass in the doors, plus small windows looking aft. A raised seat for two, with footrest, is on the port side, opposite the helm station, which has its own seat for two, so everyone can enjoy the view underway.
The salon is straightforward, with large square side windows letting in a lot of light, plus more windows aft. The L-shaped galley is along the port side and is equipped for cruising. An L-shaped settee is to starboard with a teak table; the settee converts to a berth for two. A watertight door leads to the cockpit. The swim platform is integral to the hull.
Nordic Tugs are made in Burlington, Washington, and they’re all based on designs by the late Seattle naval architect Lynn Senour. The 34 has a full keel; a heavy-duty stainless-steel shoe protects the running gear. Powered by a single 260-Volvo diesel, the boat tops out in the mid-teens, although it reaches maximum fuel efficiency in the 8-knot range. For maneuvering around the docks, a bow thruster is standard.
You can see the Nordic Tugs 34 at the Connecticut Spring Boat Show at the Brewer Essex Island Marina from May 4 through 6.
Specs.: LOA: 34’11”; Beam: 11’4”; Draft: 3’8”; Disp.: 15,700 lbs.; Fuel; 205 gals.; Water: 100 gals.; Power: 1×260-hp Volvo D4.
