Hundreds gather for a weekend of fun and education, Nordhavn-style

The Nordhavn Open House and Rendezvous hosted by the Southeast Sales office last weekend was a smashing success, topped off by a response that was nearly double what organizers had originally anticipated. Divided into two parts, the event focused on supporting both prospects and owners.

The weekend kicked off on Friday, December 10, with the Stuart, FL office’s first annual Open House, highlighted by a seven-boat display consisting of the Nordhavn 43, 46, 55, 60, 62, 64 and a brand new, days-before-delivered, aft pilothouse Nordhavn 68. More than 200 folks – which included those who came from the west coast of the U.S., as well as from Europe – jumped at the chance to climb aboard the yachts in a terrific low-key, hassle-free atmosphere. Not only were they afforded the chance to see so many different models at once but the real coup was getting to speak with many of the boat owners who were on hand to offer advice and insight. “We’re absolutely delighted with the turnout at the Open House,” said Nordhavn Southeast Sales Manager Andy Hegley. “We’ve signed up several new boat orders recently, and after last weekend’s Open House, the feeling I’m left with is that we’re heading on a path toward returning to pre-downturn sales. There was a definite buzz of excitement and an even higher level of serious interest amongst those in attendance.”

The second part of the weekend was dedicated toward the fantastic group of Nordhavn owners: first with an all-day Captain’s training seminar presented by “Lugger Bob” Senter of Northern Lights/Lugger. Bob’s technical expertise captivated the crowd, while Bob was impressed with the depth and breadth of the questions asked by the Nordhavn group.

Later, the approximate 70 owners unwound and celebrated each other’s company with a cocktail party. A good time was had by all, but it wasn’t all social revelry. There was some serious talk being had with brand new owners mixing with some Nordhavn vets. “We are extremely grateful to these owners,” said Hegley. “Not only to those who allowed us to show their beautiful boats this weekend, but to all of them for their continued support and generosity, for their encouragement of each other and their commitment and loyalty to their Nordhavns.”

The weekend rounded out on Sunday, December 12, with six different hour-long hands-on engine room tours, once again led by Bob Senter, as well as “helm tours” provided by Martek of Palm Beach’s Steve Delaney who discussed a variety of electronics issues and consulted on today’s cutting edge products.

For anyone unable to make the Florida Open House, there is another opportunity to check out a variety of Nordhavns at the third annual Southwest Open House happening January 29, 2011 in Dana Point, CA. To confirm your RSVP, click here.