There’s no prizes for guessing where the Nordic Cruiser hails from, and they don’t come much more Scandinavian than this – built by the same Danish yard that produces the endearing Folkboat sailing yachts.

Not only does it look like it popped out of the 1930s, but the wonderfully sociable cockpit and tidy cabin are chock full of practical ideas and lovely woodwork. There is so much excellent joinery on this boat that gelcoat surfaces are in the minority.

But the boat’s most impressive feature has to be around the helm where the split console and central companionway bask in varnished brilliance.

The port-hand console houses a slide-out galley complete with hob and sink, while a drawer-type fridge is found within the co-pilot’s seat. The cuddy gets the same fastidious treatment. The V-berth is well over 7ft long and there is an infill to make it a double.

The boat is RCD category C, so can take on coastal waters, and its condidence-inspiring ride at 12 knots will have you eyeing longer passages.

Tested August 2009