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by Richard Hazelton and Pat Dore |
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The number one thing we look for in testing a boat is "does it live up to the purpose for which it was designed." According to Vanguard: "The Nomad represents a new category of sailboat, one that combines superior Vanguard performance with ease of use for two to six people. Designed by Bob Ames, designer of the Vector and Vanguard 15, the Nomad is unlike any other day sailer on the market. The Nomad combines performance, stability, and durability in a package that appeals to beginners and experts alike. One of our goals for the Nomad was to design and build a boat that sailed very well but which also had creature comforts one might associate with bigger boats. There is plenty of room for adults, kids, and storage for all the gear that comes with them. Ray at Marine Servicenter arranged for us to have a sail with Vanguard rep Zig Burzycki who, along with experienced sailor Pat Dore, we met at Shilshole Marina to see how the Nomad measured up to it's billing. A brilliant, sunny day was not being very cooperative for wind, but the "West Point" hurricane provided a light breeze to give her a nice test in Seattle summer conditions. Zig rigged the 17-footer singlehandedly in about 20 minutes, with practically no effort at all. There was no point where he really needed another person. The first impression in looking over the boat is that it is very wide, and at 8-feet, it is making it a nice stable platform. Underneath, however, is a sleek hull which will bring thoughts of planing to the more experienced sailors. There are four lockers in the cockpit, providing ample room for equipment and provisions for a day's sailing. The cockpit and the lockers are self bailing, with the boat having positive flotation. Everything is designed to keep the cockpit clean and uncluttered. Very nice for the uninitiated or the cleat-like feet of little kids. An enclosed centerboard adds to the comfort. Even the vang is "reversed" to create more space under the boom. Pat and Zig headed out into the "hurricane" and returned with sunburned smiles. "The boat's a good one," said Pat. I was surprised how quickly it moved through the water. It's very responsive and turns on a dime. "The steering was neutral, and it was easy to find a groove. The asymmetrical chute was easy to set out of the deck. It could have been bigger, but I think when things pick up, it would make you pretty happy." It looks like Vanguard has done what they set out to do; produced a nice sailing, 17 foot dinghy that will provide a fun day on the water for the whole family, and still have the potential for some exciting performance sailing. It does, after all, come with 3DL sails. Pat sums up, "It's a good all around boat that you can take anywhere. The adults, the kids and the dog, will all have a good time." ... continue to page two |
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