Although weight has been well controlled on this 40-footer, the Nimbus requires a little power to move. For this reason, the boat is offered in several configurations including 2 x 300 hp or 2 x 400 hp, the most popular. We tested the 2 x 400 version with two Mercury V10 engines.
A well-designed hull
Like the rest of the boat, the W11's hull offers a blend of tradition and modernity. It's a sharp-chine hull with a progressive V that's classic in appearance. However, the section is shallow, so that when sailing, the forward third of the hull barely touches the water. Three solid strakes provide guidance and grip, and above all, the W11 benefits from two steps which reduce its wetted surface, improve planing, increasing speed and reducing fuel consumption.
Promising on paper, this architecture confirms its effectiveness on the water. As soon as it leaves the marina, the W11 is very responsive. It takes just 4.3 seconds to plane and reaches 20 knots in less than 6 seconds.
Once in line, the Nimbus flies almost over ridges. Benefiting from a very good weight distribution, the W11 doesn't pitch up on acceleration and remains relatively parallel to the surface of the water, a real plus for visibility.
Lateral balance is also a plus, because even though the hull is only 11 ft wide (3.46 m), the lively chines do their job perfectly to ensure the boat's stability. As an option, the Nimbus can also be equipped with a gyroscope, which further enhances comfort, especially at anchor.
Efficiency and performance
From there, the W11 is a a formidable performer at sea, whether in tight curves, boat wakes or head-on swells. It's hard to fault her. It's also a very forgiving boat, making it reassuring for beginners. The joystick and bow thruster make maneuvering even easier.
In terms of performance, with 800 hp on the transom, the Nimbus is, unsurprisingly, quite dynamic. Once underway, acceleration continues and the GPS goes into overdrive. At 4,000 rpm, we're already reach 28.6 knots (32.9 mph) and still going. At peak, at 6400 rpm, the boat is flirting with the 50 kts (57 mph) mark, which is pretty fast for a family boat.
The 2 x 300 hp version should reach 45 kts (51 mph) and offer a comfortable cruising speed of around 30 kts (34.5 mph), more than sufficient for the boat's program.
