Gulf Craft’s Chairman, Mohammed Alshaali, talks to YACHTS about the evolution of the Nomad range and the launch of 2019’s redesigned model
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THE NOMAD RETURNS
Gulf Craft’s Chairman, Mohammed Alshaali, talks to YACHTS about the evolution of the Nomad range and the launch of 2019’s redesigned model
How did the nomad come about?
The Nomad idea started five years ago. The big question was how do we build a yacht that is comfortable and can travel great distances. It also had to be economical, with low maintenance. It had to be elegant and beautifully appointed – a yacht that the whole family could use, just like a house. We had a long list!
We went searching for a hull and after many consultations we hired Andrew Wolstenholm. He created the semi displacement, round bilge hull, which was both fast and efficient.
When did you decided to redesign the range?
We achieved most of what we had hoped for and wanted at the start of the project. We started with a 65 foot yacht, then from that experience we moved to building a 75 and then a 95. We sold many 75s. Then the after five years, we decided that we needed to create something new, something different. So we started reengineering the 95.
Adventure on board: The extended range of Nomad Yachts will be making their world premieres at the Dubai International Boat Show. The new range joins the alre
What was the inspiration?
Superyachts were the inspiration. The idea was to create something that people didn’t expect. We focused on giving the Owner the panoramic view that he deserves. When you go to sea you don’t want to be blocked in a cabin below deck with only three small portholes. Also, if you’re travelling great distances and visiting many places, you need space for toys. Keeping toys in a safe and handy places was our next concern. Finally, we wanted to design a spacious and panoramic pilothouse.
You recreated this across the range?
After a few months we achieved what we wanted on the 95, then our appetite became bigger, was asked ourselves “can we implement the same idea on our smaller Nomads?’ The answer was, yes, yes we can.
A new way of creation?
I think we are bringing in a new experience and concept in boat design. We would not have been able to do this 10 years ago, as we didn’t have the materials. Fortunately, our experience with using kevlar and carbon in our old racing boat enabled us to build a yacht that is lightweight on top, to give
great stability.
We have moved the superyacht concept into a smaller yacht. I took one of the Nomads for a sea trial the other day and the feeling that you have in the Owner’s cabin is magnificent – and I have been at sea all my life. I hope that the Nomads will be received by the people in the same way.
