I hear you.... my old Nordkapp hefts in at 65 lbs. or so. However, Valley has gotten better in their production and newer fiberglass Nordkapps are coming in at a true 56-57lbs. If I just wanted a light Nordkapp I'd spring for one of their carbon/kevlar layups.
Building something Nordkapp-like was an interesting challenge and I enjoy building. I'm sure there are people who could duplicate a Nordkapp.... but the flare and compound curves at the ends are beyond my skills, enough reason not to try. My Nordy was a source of inspiration but not a mold.
For starters, the Omage is fuller at the ends. First impression is the new boat has a little more wetted surface and with it resistance in the water so is a little slower than the Nordy. I added a little rocker and so the boat's a little more lively... it carves turns beautifully with a little edging. I modified the deck considerably, flattening the peak and squaring the sides a bit, adding a little to the midships chine, so the secondary stability is perhaps a little better. I recessed the coaming so laybacks are relatively easy now. So far I'm happy with the results, and need to fin ish outfitting the boat to get a complete sense of it. I won't be trading in my Nordkapp anytime soon, unless I can apply the proceeds to a new one! :)