Challenging the norms of boat building

The Noblesse 660 is a 6.47-metre sports cruiser with a 2.50-metre beam. With a distinct, award-winning design, this compact vessel delivers more than meets the eye. With room for six people, it offers a sophisticated cruiser experience in a sporty and easy-to-drive package.

Design and development

When introduced in 2018, the Noblesse 660 marked a quiet turning point in Nordkapp's design direction. And choosing to move away from a self-draining cockpit in both the Noblesse 660 and 720 was not about making noise; it was about making the boat better.

Designer Espen Thorup recalls:

"We are creatures of habit—designers, developers, all humans. We were used to building boats that were self-draining. Therefore, we thought that boats needed to be that way. But was that true?"

The argument for a self-draining deck is evident; it keeps water out, and we use this design on many of our boats. And frankly, no one wants water to accumulate in the cockpit.

But does this mean that the self-drainage is necessary?

In most cases, no. Owners often control how their boats are exposed to the weather. When left in the marina for extended periods, you use a harbour cover, which protects your boat from more than just rain (we see you, seagulls).

When on the move, sea spray is not a problem with a hull that deflects water to the sides. And when you face unexpected rain, you'd likely deploy the bimini or full canopy.

A self-draining cockpit keeps water out, but it also raises the centre of gravity, making the boat more reactive to wind and sea. By lowering the deck and centre of gravity by 10 centimetres, the Noblesse 660 gained a steady, grounded feel. Crosswinds required no correction. Trim tabs became unnecessary. Passengers sat lower, more sheltered from the elements.

The result was a family sports cruiser (daycruiser) that stood out for the right reasons. Recognition came in 2019, when it was named European Power Boat of the Year, but the real proof is in the owners who spend their summers aboard the Noblesse 660.

An owner's perspective

Hilde Myren shares her experience with the Noblesse 660 after three years of use:

"The cockpit on the Noblesse 660 isn't self-draining—but for us, that's never been an issue. The boat handles rough seas incredibly well, and even when we've been out in challenging weather, we've never had problems with water accumulating in the cockpit. When it rains, we simply use the canopy, and the cockpit stays dry. We always keep the harbour cover on when the boat's not in use.

"In fact, the lack of an automatic drainage system comes with its advantages. We have more control over water levels, and with fewer openings to maintain, there's a lower risk of leaks. It also makes the overall construction simpler and reduces the need for upkeep. Another plus is that the cockpit dries faster—something that helps prevent mould and rot.

"Overall, the boat provides a safe and comfortable experience, even in demanding conditions. And this solution has worked well for us."

Hilde explains that they use the Noblesse 660 as a family boat, with two adults and two children on board.

"We mainly use it for day trips, although we've also enjoyed several overnight stays.

"There's plenty of space, so we often invite guests to join us, and the boat is regularly used for water sports like tubing and water skiing.

"The stability at sea is excellent—it feels safe, even for guests who are nervous about being on the water. Before this, we had a daycruiser from another brand that was a few feet smaller, and we've noticed a significant improvement with the Nordkapp. The Noblesse 660 is easy to handle and beginner-friendly."