Compromis 999 Information, Review, Specs

Designed with seaworthiness and comfort at its core, the Compromis 999 reflects Zaadnoordijk's long-standing commitment to quality and craftsmanship, which has defined their vessels for over seven decades. The builder's ethos during this era centered on delivering robust, comfortable, and capable cruising yachts constructed from durable fiberglass.

History and Design

The Compromis 999 enjoyed a significant production run, from its introduction in 1987 until 2005, with 278 units built. Designer Frans Maas engineered the Compromis 999 with specific goals in mind: to offer good sailing characteristics while remaining calm and dry in varied sea conditions. His design prioritized a roomy interior and overall seaworthiness, aiming to create a vessel capable of extended cruising.

Zaadnoordijk Yachtbuilders, with their extensive experience in yacht construction, embraced modern fiberglass techniques to ensure strength and durability in the 999's solid hull and deck. While the standard configuration featured a fin keel with a maximum draft of 4.92 feet, an optional shallow draft version was also available, drawing just 4.1 feet (1.25 meters). Furthermore, a notable variation during its production was the availability of an optional tall mast, which significantly increased the reported sail area from 396.1 sq ft to 484.37 sq ft (45 sqm), allowing the boat to sail higher and potentially improve light-air performance. In 2013, C-Yachts, the successor to the Compromis brand, even relaunched a version of the 999, updating it with a Yanmar 3YM20 engine.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of 32.48 feet and a waterline length of 26.74 feet, the Compromis 999 is classified as a moderate displacement cruiser. Its displacement-to-length ratio of approximately 242 suggests a sturdy and comfortable motion, falling between a lighter performance boat and a heavier traditional cruiser.

The Compromis 999 is noted for its pleasant and smooth sailing characteristics. The standard rig, with a sail area to displacement ratio of about 13.3, indicates a conservative sail plan, suggesting that the boat performs best in moderate to stronger winds. However, owners opting for the taller mast would experience improved performance, especially in lighter air, allowing the boat to sail more efficiently. The boat's ballast-to-displacement ratio, standing at a robust 42.5%, contributes significantly to its stiffness and stability, enabling it to stand up well to wind and provide a comfortable motion in a seaway. Its fin keel and spade rudder contribute to responsive handling, ensuring it is enjoyable at the helm and a stable, reliable sailer. The hull speed is calculated at 6.93 knots.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Compromis 999 is widely praised for its spaciousness, ergonomic layout, and comfort. With a generous maximum headroom of 6.42 feet, the saloon feels open and inviting, accommodating taller individuals comfortably. Online descriptions and reviews consistently highlight the boat's roomy and efficiently designed spaces.

Typical interior arrangements often feature a V-berth forward, providing a comfortable sleeping area. The main salon usually includes settees that can double as berths, alongside a practical galley equipped for cruising needs. A dedicated head compartment is standard. Many models feature a quarter berth or an aft cabin, offering additional sleeping accommodations. The interior finish often combines white surfaces with warm teak trim, creating a light and airy ambiance. Owners appreciate the well-thought-out design, which maximizes usable space and provides ample storage for provisions and gear, making it well-suited for extended periods aboard.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners consistently commend the Compromis 999 for being a wonderfully robust and comfortable vessel with pleasant sailing characteristics. Many consider it to be "probably the best 10 meter yacht in its class," particularly appreciating its generous interior space, ergonomic layout, and overall comfort. The quality of construction is frequently highlighted, with some reviews suggesting that these Dutch-built yachts "old love does not rust," implying their enduring durability.

While no pervasive common problems are widely reported, which speaks to the boat's robust construction, owners often value its seaworthy capabilities and stable performance. The optional tall mast is a sought-after feature for those desiring enhanced performance, while the availability of a shallow draft option caters to different cruising grounds. The Compromis 999 fosters a loyal community, reflecting the high regard in which these solid and reliable cruisers are held.