About Nordic Tugs
Fuel Crisis of 1974 Hits Boating Industry Hard
Boating in the early 70s had been rapidly gaining in popularity. However, the fuel crisis hit world-wide in 1974, and with the long lines at the gas stations and the limited gas supply, power boat owners sharply curtailed the use of their pleasure boats.
Jerry Husted, president of Blue Water Boats of Woodinville, Washington (manufacturer of double-ended ocean ketches of the Norwegian “Ingrid” design), was concerned about the effects of the gas crisis on the boating market. Powerboat sales slowed down and current owners spent more time at the dock than they did out on the water. Ever the conservationist, Jerry became obsessed with providing a fuel-stingy powerboat. Sailboats used very little fuel while underway, primarily due to their modest speed, but a sailboat without masts was not going to appeal to the powerboat consumer.
This thought in mind, Jerry joined forces with his good friend and renowned Seattle boat designer, Lynn Senour, and the two spent many lunch hours pondering the “right boat” for the power boat market. One day – an epiphany! A tug was fuel-efficient and looked right going slow. It was “macho” enough to appeal to the powerboat buyers. Equally important, it would also appeal to women, bringing back memories of their mothers reading them the children’s book “Lil’ Toot”, and that they, in turn, read to their children.
Built on the Foundation of Nordic Influence…
In 1979, Nordic Tugs was officially formed by Jerry Husted (President), Gail Davis, teacher, small business owner and avid boater (Vice-President and Treasurer) and Jerry’s brother Jim Husted, a retired Air Force Colonel (Vice-President).
The name “Nordic Tugs” came from the strong attachment to Norwegian nautical lore, garnered from the “Ingrid” design, and the assumption that most boaters would recognize the Norwegian influence in the strength, character and integrity of the tugs.
Lynn Senour got to work drawing the first Nordic Tug, a replica design of the 1930’s tugs. The 26-foot prototype premiered at the 1980 Seattle International Boat Show. Such a radical concept in boating could easily have been a failure, but Nordic Tugs astounded the boating world by taking one order every three hours during the show. A total of 54 orders were taken during the show and throughout the following week!
With the nostalgic appeal and notable fuel economy (1/2 gallon per hour at 6-1/2 knots), Nordic Tugs became an immediate success in the marine community.
Success Brings Product Line Expansion…
Nordic Tugs went on to build two versions of the original 26’ design, originally named the Red Apple (a cruiser) and the Cricket, a short cabin open aft deck model (used primarily as a fishing vessel). The two boats were presented at the Oakland Boat Show, and over 18,000 people stopped by to check out the newest boating sensation!
The boats were definitely not a “one hit wonder” and proved to have lasting appeal. In 1982, the Northwest Marine Trade Association (NMTA) dubbed Nordic Tugs “one of the biggest success stories of a largely depressed pleasure boat construction scene”.
Eventually, to remain competitive in the growing boating market, Nordic Tugs expanded its product line. In November 1985, the new Nordic Tug 32 was introduced with top speeds of 14 knots.
Today, the popularity of Nordic Tugs is as strong as ever. With interest and inquiries increasing worldwide, Nordic Tugs started exporting to Europe in July, 2007, and now has international dealers in both Europe, Russia and Japan. The company has received CE certification on the Nordic Tug 32, 37, 42 and 54.
Gearing up to meet consumer needs throughout the next decade, Nordic Tugs launched the new Nordic Tug 49 in August, 2008, which features two large staterooms (with a full beam, mid-ship master berth). The 49 will bridge the gap between the Nordic Tug 42 and the Nordic Tug 54. With the passing of Lynn Senour in 2004, the Nordic Tug 49 is the first boat in the Nordic line with a different architect’s name attached – Howard Apollonio, NA, PE. Nordic Tugs is delighted to have acquired the services of such a distinguished naval architect and designer.
Due to the increased popularity of “pocket cruisers”, in July, 2008, Nordic Tugs announced its plans to bring back the ever-popular Nordic Tug 26. The first hull will be completed in October, 2008.
From a small sailboat manufacturer building one boat per month to selling more than 50 units per year, Nordic Tugs is the boating world’s Cinderella story.