Nordlund 72′ Interior Yacht Restoration and Water Tank Replacement

A Freshwater Tank Leak on a Nordlund Yacht

This Nordlund 72 yacht repair project began with a hidden freshwater tank leak beneath the master cabin sole.Water tank leaks on mid-size yachts most often come from material fatigue, especially corrosion in metal tanks or stress cracking in plastic ones. Poor support or tank movement may also stress seams and fittings, while blocked vents can cause bulging and cracks. Leaks may also happen due to abrasion where the tank rubs against structure or improper installation that leaves plumbing too rigid or tanks insufficiently secured.  

Before performing major repairs, standard troubleshooting involves:
-Filling the tank and inspecting seams and fittings with a narrow-beam flashlight to pinpoint the leak.
-Considering the tank’s material: fiberglass, plastic, or stainless steel, since each requires a different repair or replacement strategy.

When leaks are caused by internal corrosion or structural cracks, especially in tanks located in tight spaces, full tank replacement is often the most reliable long-term solution. On this Nordlund 72, accessing the tank required professional yacht carpentry, cutting open the master cabin floor, and removing several structural beams.

Removing the Original Tank and Installing the New System

Our team developed a precise method to remove the original tank in one piece and bring the new tank through the existing companionway stairs. Maneuvering a full-size tank through this narrow passage was one of the most challenging steps in the entire yacht restoration process.

The upgraded stainless steel tank was engineered slightly larger for improved performance. Because of this change, the original support beams no longer fit. We fabricated custom, thinner structural beams that preserved strength while accommodating the new tank dimensions.

Corrosion Prevention & Structural Enhancements

To protect the newly installed stainless tank from moisture-related corrosion, we wrapped the tank frame with a rubber isolation gasket. This separates the metal tank from the surrounding wood structure, helping extend the tank’s service life and improve long-term durability.

Interior Restoration & Finishing Work

Once the new water tank system and structural supports were complete, our team restored the Nordlund’s interior.

Key interior upgrades included:

• Installing Amtico teak and holly flooring to match the original cabin sole
• Removing, refinishing, and reinstalling the solid teak perimeter trim
• Rebuilding the hatch supports for smoother access and long-term reliability

These finishing touches brought the master cabin back to a clean and factory-quality appearance.

Professional Yacht Repair & Restoration

This project is a prime example of how complex boat repairs such as water tank replacements, require expert planning, structural modification, and yacht-quality carpentry. Our team delivered a durable, long-term solution while restoring the yacht’s interior to a high-end finish.

If you need help performing a freshwater tank replacement, or managing any yacht interior restoration, we’re here to assist.