Compromis 888 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Compromis 888 commenced production in 1989, a period when Zaadnoordijk Yachtbuilders was well into its stride, leveraging decades of experience in yacht construction and a transition to modern fiberglass materials. Designer Frans Maas approached the 888 with a clear philosophy, prioritizing living comfort and good-natured sailing characteristics. His design incorporated an elaborate keel and a high ballast content, laying the groundwork for the boat's renowned stability and seakeeping. Zaadnoordijk Yachtbuilders, known for their commitment to "100% locally produced, in The Netherlands" craftsmanship, brought Maas's vision to fruition, ensuring that all important features such as safety, comfort, and practical usability were seamlessly integrated into the Compromis 888. While no significant variations like MkI or MkII models are widely documented, the Compromis 888 was built with a masthead sloop rig, a simple and effective configuration for cruising. Production of the 888 continued for a notable period, with models from the early to mid-1990s still actively on the market, underscoring its enduring appeal.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Compromis 888 offers a balanced and predictable sailing experience, characteristic of its design intent as a comfortable cruiser. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 13.23, she is classified as a moderate displacement cruiser, suggesting solid performance across a range of conditions without being a dedicated light-air flyer. Her ballast to displacement ratio, a healthy 41.16%, contributes significantly to her stiffness and ability to stand up to a breeze, instilling confidence in her crew even in choppier seas. The displacement to length ratio of around 216 further confirms her identity as a well-built cruising yacht, prioritizing comfort and stability over outright speed. Owners and reviewers consistently describe the Compromis 888 as a "good-natured" vessel that is "easy to operate," highlighting its balanced helm and predictable behavior. Its fin keel and spade rudder contribute to good maneuverability, while wide decks enhance safety and ease of movement when under sail. This combination of design elements makes her a respectable performer, capable of comfortable passage-making even in varied sea states.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Compromis 888 is thoughtfully designed for practical liveability, especially for a vessel of just over 28 feet. Stepping below, one finds a "practical layout" with a focus on maximizing usable space. The typical arrangement includes a V-berth forward, a main salon, a head, and an aft cabin. The galley is generally positioned on the port side, noted for its "simple but practical" design. Headroom is a commendable feature for a boat of its size, reportedly around 1.9 meters (approximately 6 feet 2 inches), allowing most individuals to stand comfortably upright. Throughout the interior, the finish is described as "neat" and "perfect," reflecting the Dutch builder's commitment to quality. Ample storage space is found throughout the well-designed layout, catering to the needs of cruisers.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Compromis 888 frequently praise its solid construction and overall reliability, a testament to Zaadnoordijk Yachtbuilders' enduring quality. Many highlight the boat's comfortable motion, even when sailing offshore, and its ergonomic design. The vessel is consistently regarded as a well-built, practical, and enjoyable boat to sail, offering a secure experience for its crew. Its ease of handling and "good sailing characteristics" are recurring positive comments, making it a popular choice for those seeking a dependable cruising platform.