Captain David Romeril on a Noordic 28 in Singapore

A new Noordic 26 by UX Marine is expected to arrive in Singapore in September as the South Africa-based shipyard continues to make further inroads into Asia-Pacific following an earlier sale of its flagship Noordic 28, also in Singapore.

UX Marine owners Eugene Mercado and superyacht captain David Romeril, skipper of the world’s second-largest trimaran, are both based in Singapore, while CEO Mike Johnston is based in Australia.

The company builds its 16-28ft open cruisers in Simonstown on the coast of False Bay, south of Cape Town, where General Manager Jean ‘JP’ Le Roux – formerly of Robertson and Caine – oversees manufacturing operations.

UX Marine’s affordable, high-performance boats are already cruising in three continents. In Asia-Pacific, the focus has been on the Noordic line, the company’s ‘luxury collection’. The Noordic 23, 26 and 28 models are inspired by the adventure boat market popularised by the likes of Axopar, Saxdor and Nimbus.

Mike Johnston (left) and Eugene Mercado of UX Marine

Romeril explained: “From the 23 to the 28, the Noordic Line is all about combining clean Nordic style with the practical features and durability that UX Marine is known for. These boats aren’t just for show; they’re made to be used, loved and shared.”

In April, UX Marine displayed the Noordic 28 at the Singapore Yachting Festival, where the boat generated a lot of attention as well as a purchase during the four-day event at ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove.

“She looked an absolute treat sitting alongside some of the world’s finest yachts,” Romeril recalled. “The reception was even better than we’d hoped, and we secured a sale. There’s nothing like shaking hands and sealing the deal while the excitement’s still in the air!”

In May, the Noordic 23 debuted at the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show in Australia. Johnston, who’s based in Melbourne, said: “This boat has been turning heads in both the Australian and South African markets, proving that great design and comfort don’t need to come in a big package. Compact, classy and more than capable, she’s perfect for day trips and coastal hops.”

Noordic 28

UX Marine’s boats are also turning heads with their colours, with the shipyard offering pastel tones on its hulls and bright, contrasting colours for upholstery. Mercado said: “The colour options are bold and fresh, and the response so far has been nothing short of amazing. People can’t stop talking about how these boats stand out in the marina and on the water.”

Next up is the first Noordic 26 in Singapore. The incoming model has been tailored following customer input, resulting in a bigger, extendable T-top for more shade, a new rainfall shower on deck, a more spacious cabin, and many refined details. The yacht is fitted with a 250hp Mercury Verado and features assistive docking for easier manoeuvring and berthing.

“The Noordic 26 is built for entertainment and luxury, and she’ll be right at home cruising, partying or just kicking back with family and mates,” Mercado said. “We can’t wait.”

uxmarine.com