Waarschip 700 LD Information, Review, Specs

The Waarschip 700 LD emerged in 2011, reflecting Waarschip Werft's continued innovation within its esteemed lineage of wooden boats. This model was conceived to be a highly sporty and manageable 7-meter vessel, emphasizing speed and ease of handling. It stands as a contemporary design within Waarschip's "Regatta line," distinguishing itself from its cruiser counterparts like the 700 CR with a focus on competitive sailing. The design philosophy centered on creating a boat that was not only fast but also exceptionally stable, a goal achieved through a significant ballast share. Waarschip Werft, founded in 1968, has consistently championed wooden construction, utilizing marine plywood and modern epoxy techniques to ensure the durability and longevity of their yachts. The 700 LD is a testament to this ethos, built with a strong and durable construction designed to withstand demanding conditions.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Waarschip 700 LD's design metrics clearly indicate its performance-oriented nature. With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/Disp) of approximately 22.92, she is well-powered, suggesting strong performance, especially in lighter wind conditions. Her remarkable ballast to displacement ratio (Ballast/Disp) of around 0.565 is exceptionally high for a boat of her size, contributing to outstanding stiffness and stability, allowing her to stand up to a significant amount of wind without excessive heeling. The displacement to length ratio (D/L) of approximately 97.56 further confirms her light displacement, positioning her as a very nimble and performance-focused yacht.

Anecdotal reports corroborate these figures, consistently describing the Waarschip 700 LD as "very fast and very manageable". Owners and reviewers highlight its ability to "easily go into plané," particularly owing to its substantial 55% ballast share which contributes to its stability. Magazine tests have lauded the 700 LD for living up to its promises of high speed, even demonstrating impressive performance in light wind conditions. One test noted a speed of 7.8 knots when sailing 30 degrees to the wind, underscoring its capabilities as a genuine racer.

Accommodations and Layout

As a "Light Displacement" racer, the Waarschip 700 LD prioritizes performance and simplicity over expansive cruising comforts. While specific detailed interior layouts for the LD model are not extensively published, the general Waarschip 700 series is noted to offer sleeping space for four people. Given its design as a regatta boat, the interior is typically functional rather than luxurious, likely featuring basic berths and minimal amenities necessary for short-term cruising or overnight racing. Waarschip's heritage suggests a finish that, while perhaps not ornate, would be robust and well-crafted, often featuring varnished wood finishes consistent with the builder's traditional aesthetic.

Owner's Perspectives

While extensive owner reviews specifically detailing common problems for the Waarschip 700 LD are not widely available, the collective sentiment from available reviews and builder descriptions points to several consistent strengths. Owners and sailing enthusiasts appreciate its high-performance capabilities, affirming its reputation as a fast and agile boat that is nonetheless remarkably stable and manageable, even for a small crew. The boat's robust wooden construction, a hallmark of Waarschip Werft, is also a highly valued attribute, contributing to its perceived durability and timeless appeal. The Waarschip 700 LD is lauded for living up to its promise as a competitive and rewarding sailing platform.