Nicols yacht construction started in 1986 within a French industrial group specialising in the transformation of plastic materials. In 1990 the first Nicols base opened in Dole in Franche-Comté. The following year a reservation centre opened to take bookings for holidaymakers. 20 years later Nicols continue to manage the complete process: boat construction/rentals/administrating the bases. Over the years, generations of boats have been created: after the Marinas, then Riviera, the Sedans have been developed, easily recognisable with their "sea yacht" silhouette and their terrace, unrivalled on the market; then the grand comfort range appreciated by couples, and finally the new Estivale generation ... In total, there are 5 ranges, 21 boat models and more than 500 craft that have come from the Nicols shipyard.
At first, everything starts with a list of ideas: inspired from customer comments and 1st users of Nicols yachts; we use all suggestions that can allow us to improve the comfort onboard our boats to meet and exceed the expectations of our customers. Once agreed we design the boat to meet the demands of our clients: living area, sleeping quarters, attractive lines, comfort of the interior furnishings...
When the plans are finished, we begin the making of the "first model": made of wood, it is from this model that the moulds are created to make all the boats. Each mould must have a perfect surface, like a mirror, so that the stratification (projection of polyester fibres) is without a flaw. Once the two principal pieces are made (hull and deck) comes the unmoulding stage ... it is already a new born! Then all the teams take over: carpenters to make the partitions and interior furniture, welders for the railings and ladders, electricians, mechanics, plumbers, for the interior equipment and wiring, etc... until the boat is finally ready to leave the shipyard for its new home!
Fittings designed for your comfort and security: Onboard a Nicols yacht, everything is thought out for your comfort. Most of our models are fitted with a large, light and airy living area, with a 360° panoramic view; a very practical fitted kitchen with a 200 litre fridge and a freezer compartment, a stove and mini oven, sometimes even a microwave (on the VIP)! With the exception of the Riviera range (our 1st models) all the boats feature sliding French windows with access onto the terrace for meals in the sun; the roof solarium is accessible and there is often a second piloting position (the fly-bridge) for the captain's benefit! For safety, Nicols has equipped all boats with a double railing and a hand rail which permits your movements to the front of the boat with maximum security and comfort for adults and children (under your supervision). All our models built in our shipyard since 1998, have a water level bathing ladder: practical for climbing onto the boat, after a dip, voluntary or accidental!
A spacious living area, a fitted kitchen, cabins and bathrooms, a terrace...your Nicols boat is a comfortable as a floating home! Such is the case for some of our clients who have enjoyed it so much that they have chosen to invest in buying a Nicols river boat as their second home. Whether new or second hand, there is the possibility to have interior fittings altered or made to measure as you wish! The Nicols boat enthusiasts are not only holidaymakers but also happy boat owners. Click here for more information.
The Nicols Yacht shipyard has made more than 500 boats, developed in 5 ranges and 21 models, from 7.50m to 13.50m. These models are for rental in France, Germany and Portugal. Each year more than 30,000 passengers navigate onboard our Nicols river boats...