
Nicols Yacht Nicols 800-Test
Boat · 26 ft (8 m) · Germany
Expertenbewertung
Technische Daten
- Werft
- Nicols Yacht
- Modell
- Nicols 800
- Länge
- 26 ft (8 m)
- Gäste
- 2
- Kabinen
- 1
Urteil
The Nicols 800 is a compact French river cruiser with simple, practical layout and easy handling. Its modest 20 hp engine and shallow-draft dimensions suit relaxed inland cruising more than speed, while the 1-cabin, 1-bath setup keeps it best for a couple or very small crew.
Vorteile
- +Compact 8 m hull is easy to berth and maneuver
- +Shallow draft suits inland and river cruising
- +Simple 1-cabin / 1-bath layout works well for couples
- +200 L fuel tank supports leisurely cruising
- +Aft shaft-drive setup is straightforward for maintenance
Nachteile
- −Only 20 hp, so acceleration and top speed are limited
- −Best suited to 2 guests; space is tight for longer stays
- −Older 1993 build may require more upkeep
- −Limited cruising ambition compared with larger motor yachts
- −Fuel-capacity data is inconsistent across sources
The Nicols 800 is a compact 1993 motor yacht built around river-boating practicality rather than performance. At about 8 m overall length, with a beam of 2.55 m and a shallow 0.6 m draft, it is designed to be easy to place in marinas and well suited to inland waterways. The fiberglass hull and shaft-drive propulsion point to a simple, durable package.
On the water, the 20 hp Volvo Penta diesel is modest by any standard, so this boat should be judged as a slow-cruising, low-stress platform rather than a fast mover. That modest power, combined with the compact size, should make handling predictable and manageable for less experienced crews, especially in sheltered waters.
Livability is focused on short breaks and couple cruising. Public listings show a 1-cabin, 1-bath layout with 2 berths, plus amenities such as air conditioning, Wi‑Fi, autopilot, and GPS. That is enough for comfortable weekends or relaxed inland holidays, but the limited size leaves little room for gear or guests.
In value terms, the Nicols 800 can make sense for buyers or charter guests who prioritize simplicity, maneuverability, and low operating demands over pace or volume. The main caveat is age: a 1993 boat can still be attractive if well maintained, but condition and refit history matter more than headline specs on a model this size.


