N40

The Nordhavn 40 holds a special place in maritime history as the smallest production boat to circumnavigate. This legendary status makes it highly sought after on the used market, particularly the 45 hulls built during its 1990-1998 production run.

For buyers, the N40 represents the purest expression of Nordhavn's passagemaker philosophy. It's simple, efficient, and capable of extraordinary range (2,400 nm at 7 knots) despite its modest size. The single Lugger 106 hp engine is legendary for reliability, and the systems are straightforward enough for an owner-operator to maintain.

Compared to the later N43 and N46, the N40 is significantly smaller inside but offers the same legendary range and seakeeping. The N43 adds 3 feet of length and more interior volume, while the N46 adds another 6 feet and a second head. The modern N41 (current production) offers updated systems and more interior volume but at a much higher price point—a used N40 can be had for $400-600K versus $2M+ for a new N41.

The trade-offs are obvious: this is a small boat by modern standards. Interior space is compact, and there's no dedicated shower stall. The layout prioritizes function over comfort. For buyers seeking a true adventure vessel rather than a floating condo, the N40 remains compelling. Key survey items include hull blisters (common in early Nordhavns), fuel tank condition, and evidence of proper maintenance during its decades of service.