Wheelhouse boat / coupe boat

Wheelhouse boats open up a world of freedom at sea, allowing you to go further and stay longer. You get shade when it's sunny, and protection from the elements when you need it. After reading this guide, you'll know what to look for when buying your wheelhouse boat.

Explore the Nordkapp Coupe models

About the wheelhouse boat

• The wheelhouse boat is well-suited for weekend trips or vacations at sea. The size of the vessel significantly impacts how the boat facilitates longer trips.

• The wheelhouse boat can also be used for commuting. In Scandinavia, this is popular for those living in cities by the sea or on islands in the archipelago. 

• More basic wheelhouse boats are good alternatives for fishing; in these boats, the wheelhouse is positioned further towards the bow to make space for a larger aft deck.

• The wheelhouse boat opens up the possibility of a year-round boating season.

Scandinavian-designed wheelhouse boats

Nordkapp's wheelhouse boats are designed in Norway by Espen Thorup. True Scandinavian design balances functionality and elegance, with the user experience at the forefront. The Coupe 905 is an example of this, combining the features of walkaround boats with those of wheelhouse and cabin boats.

Wheelhouse boats as cabin boats

Many of the wheelhouse boats are delivered with a separate or semi-separate cabin and can offer a high level of comfort. The size of the cabin depends on how far towards the bow the cabin is placed.

A good tip is to try out the solutions for extra sleeping spaces, sunbeds, and tables, so you get a feel for how long they take to set up. Remember, these are features you'll be using on your trips for many years. Wheelhouse boats without a cabin often have solutions in the cockpit for an extra sleeping space.

Things to look for in a wheelhouse boat with a cabin:

• Bedspace/berth: For how many people does the bedspace and berth function?

• Toilet: Does the boat have a separate toilet room, or is the toilet in the cabin?

• Lighting: How are the cabin lights designed, what type of lighting do they give, and how are they operated?

Year-round comfort

The wheelhouse boat is used all year round, and many of the boats have Webasto heating, freshwater and bedspace. Take a closer look at the video to see how the wheelhouse boat can facilitate high-end comfort, regardless of weather and conditions.

Design and functions: what can you expect? 

The hull design and cockpit noise level are important factors in a wheelhouse boat. To gain more space in the cockpit and cabin, the hull design will be wider, which may result in a less comfortable ride.

The hull angle has a major impact on the planing threshold, cruising speed, top speed, and the effect of currents and sidewinds. A flatter hull can result in more onboard space, while a sharper hull often provides better seagoing characteristics.

The seagoing characteristics should be a top priority when considering buying a wheelhouse boat. It is best to test the boats at sea when possible.

Convenience and comfort

Most wheelhouse boats offer pantry layouts – sometimes tucked away beneath seat cushions, other times built as counters inside the wheelhouse. Explore different layouts to see what suits you best.

It's a good idea to have a fridge or cooler if you're planning longer trips or overnight stays. Take a look at the size and placement of these in your boat.

Consider how easily you can reach cabinets and compartments, and whether they hold what you typically bring along. Bags, clothing, gear – everything should have a natural place, ready when you need it.

An electric sunroof transforms the atmosphere, keeping it bright and airy. It's one of those small luxuries that quietly changes the entire experience.

The canopy setup can tell you a lot about how the boat is meant to be used. Some favour practicality for fishing, others comfort for long summer evenings. A Webasto heater outlet under the canopy is worth noting; it extends the day and the season.

Door placement and width may seem minor, but they define how open and social the cockpit feels. Wide aft doors let air and conversation flow naturally between spaces, while extra side entries make boarding and movement easier for everyone.

Also, pay attention to the dashboard layout: a helm with two displays lets you separate navigation and engine data, giving you easy control. This is especially important as sunlight fades or when it's foggy.

Popular equipment

• Bow and stern drive (thrusters): These are excellent aids to use, especially on windy days and in smaller, narrow boat berths. This is one of the most favoured equipment for wheelhouse boat owners.

• Trim flaps: Many modern boats are delivered with trim flaps to adjust the angle during heavy side winds. This makes the ride more joyful for both you and your passengers.

• Anchor winch: An electrical anchor winch enables you to operate the boat alone, even when using the anchor to dock. The anchor winch can often be operated through a remote control, and if you choose a bow thruster, it can typically be operated from the same remote.

• Cockpit door on starboard side: This feature makes it easier to moor a large wheelhouse boat alone.