The NC 14 is not just a larger NC 11, but a completely new boat with more comfort, luxury and an overall modern design, especially in terms of the hull," explains Merry de la Poeze, head of Jeanneau's powerboat division.
Our test boat has two cabins with four plus two berths and two toilet/shower rooms, in which even sturdily built people don't get claustrophobic. The second bathroom costs extra. Apart from a few minor details, the overall finish gives no cause for criticism. Due to its cramped nature and the fact that a lot of technology is housed here, the engine compartment seems too small for service work, but this is ultimately the price you have to pay for the generous space that prevails in the rest of the boat.
What we criticised on the NC 9 at the time - such as the almost inaccessible fuses - is better on the test boat, albeit not yet optimally solved.
The technical compartment, where important parts such as the 12 V fuses and relays are installed, is more accessible, but you still have to go into the "cellar", which guarantees bruises in rough seas. You can also get bruises on the driver's seat at the seat cushion hinge if you slide off the side of the seat to port.
Otherwise, the high-gloss gelcoat exterior and smooth inner shell with sealed laminate interior score highly. Untreated plastic cut edges are in the minority, and the neatly installed technology and electrics are pleasing. We liked the entire interior design.
If a maximum speed of just under 25 knots at nominal speed (3500 rpm) is sufficient, then choose two IPS400s with 300 hp (220 kW) each; if you want to be around 5 knots faster at the same speed, then use two IPS-500s with 370 hp (272 kW) each - as used in the test boat.
Two drive trains alone guarantee manoeuvrable behaviour at slow speeds, and with the joystick, which is available at extra cost, every skipper can dock and cast off with ease. We sail the slow passages at a speed of 7 knots at 1200 rpm so that the waves generated by the boat remain at an acceptable height. As the speed increases, the NC 14 lifts almost parallel out of the water and begins to obey the dynamic buoyancy from 2200 rpm (13 knots).
If you also extend the trim tabs by about 50 %, the view forwards and aft is perfect. Without trim tabs, the foredeck and horizon form a line, and aft you have to bend down a little to see the same thing. However, it is normal for boats with IPS drives to use trim tabs to improve visibility. At full speed, the engines turn 120 rpm more than the manufacturer allows, thus ensuring a top speed of just over 31 knots. The increase in speed is due to the low load.
With IPS drives, you drive a spiral from a standstill with the rudder fully turned in and full speed ahead, which then closes into a circle at a diameter of around 280 metres, as in the test boat. If you need it tighter, you have to go slower. The curves over the port side turn into a blind flight, as the hardtop roof swivels into the field of vision. Even with the sunroof open, things don't get any better, and over starboard you have to bend down a bit to get a clear view. IPS drives prevent extreme manoeuvres, as their steering angle depends on engine speed and speed. It is important to note that on the test boat, it takes just under a second from the moment the rudder is turned until the IPS pod drives react.
Wind forces of around three Beaufort make for choppy water on the Mediterranean off Cannes, where the waves can sometimes reach a height of almost one metre. The Frenchwoman navigates through all of this safely and comfortably without any complaints.
Thanks to the impressive sound insulation, we measured a maximum sound pressure of 77 dB/A in the closed saloon at full speed (3650 rpm) and around 85 dB/A in the cockpit. That's good. - The driver sits on a double bench, while the co-driver sits either next to the skipper or opposite at the dinette, which converts into a sofa.
After analysing our measured values, one tank of fuel at slow speed (1200 rpm) is sufficient for a non-stop distance of just over 550 nm plus 15%. At a gliding speed of 2800 rpm and 21 kn, you are in the economic range; one tank of fuel is then theoretically sufficient for a range of 177 nm until the reserve is reached. At full throttle, you should look for a bunker station 27 nm earlier in order to preserve the diesel supply.
Asymmetrical side decks make the starboard side the main through deck to the front and aft. This makes sense, as the helm station with direct access to the side deck is also located on the same side and the side deck is lower from the door to the helm station. This arrangement, including the spring cleat on the bulwark, allows the skipper to occupy the boat alone. - On the port side, on the other hand, you walk aft at foredeck level. Steps on both sides make it easier to descend into the cockpit. The boat can be accessed either via the railing (on the side decks) or - as planned - via a hydraulic-electric gangway (extra) at the stern.
The standard version of the NC 14 comes ready to sail with all the necessary accessories. In addition, Jeanneau offers the boat with various equipment packages, which can be supplemented with additional accessories, giving every owner the opportunity to "customise" the yacht according to their own personal preferences.
Conclusion: Even with the more powerful engine of 2 x 370 hp, the NC 14 is not to be upset and is suitable for everyone. The joystick is a must, while the gangway, the hydraulically lowerable bathing platform and a generator are useful additions. With the right equipment package, such as air conditioning or heating and a canopy that covers the cockpit, the Jeanneau NC 14 is at home in both southern and northern boating areas and is a comfortable and, above all, safe cruising boat for inland and coastal waters for four people - also thanks to the fine galley on board.
Data sheet: Jeannaeu NC 14
Shipyard: Jeanneau
Type designation: Jeannaeu NC 14
CE category: B - Outside coastal waters
Length: 13,73 m
Width: 4,10 m
Displacement: 10,50 t
Price: 386.107,00 €
