Nord Star 31+ vs Targa 32

At a glance

Where the buying decision changes

The 31+ is strongest for buyers who put protected operation and walkaround deck access ahead of maximum open-air social space. Its inboard / sterndrive setup creates a different ownership proposition from outboard-heavy competitors.

The Targa 32 sits on the traditional, premium end of the Nordic pilothouse spectrum. Buyers should evaluate its price and diesel complexity against the unusually strong deck movement and all-weather mission.

The right answer depends on which tradeoffs you care about most. The ABG Score is intentionally broken into categories so a buyer can overweight the areas that matter for their own boating rather than treating the total score as a universal verdict.

Category edges

• ABG scores these two essentially even on weather protection.
• ABG gives the edge to Targa 32 on family usability.
• ABG gives the edge to Targa 32 on overnight capability.
• ABG scores these two essentially even on performance.
• ABG scores these two essentially even on deck usability.
• ABG scores these two essentially even on versatility.

Who should choose Nord Star 31+?

Start with the Nord Star if your mission aligns closely with family cruising and commuting, and if its inboard / sterndrive setup and full wheelhouse match how you expect to use the boat.

Who should choose Targa 32?

Start with the Targa if your mission aligns more closely with family pilothouse cruising, particularly if its propulsion and layout philosophy solve a higher-priority need for your family.

What to verify on a sea trial

1. Noise and vibration at your realistic cruise speed.
2. Visibility from the helm with passengers seated and doors/roof systems configured for bad weather.
3. Transition from helm to dock lines with one adult operating the boat.
4. Sleeping layout with the actual number of overnight guests.
5. Engine-room or outboard service access and local service availability.
6. Total delivered price with the options you actually require.