Waarschip 725 (1/4 Ton) Information, Review, Specs

The Waarschip 725 (1/4 Ton) was conceived during a vibrant period in sailing, with production spanning from 1968 to 1976. Over 1,000 units of this model were built, a testament to its popularity. Its primary design impetus was to excel in the highly competitive Quarter Ton Cup, a class that encouraged innovative and performance-oriented designs for smaller yachts., 14, 18] Designers Willem J. Akkerman and Klaas T. Kremer crafted a vessel that was intended to be a light, rigid cabin sailboat, capable of delivering strong racing results.

Waarschip Werft, the builder, played a crucial role in the boat's widespread adoption. From its inception in 1968, Waarschip was a pioneer in offering meticulously designed plans and pre-cut kits, allowing amateur builders to construct their own sturdy sailing vessels. This approach democratized yachting and fostered a deep connection between the builder and their boat. The 725's hull and deck construction, featuring a fiberglass-plywood core, aligns with Waarschip's long-standing dedication to durable wooden construction, often enhanced with modern epoxy coatings to ensure longevity.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Waarschip 725's design specifications translate into a lively and capable sailing experience. With a Sail Area to Displacement Ratio (SA/D) of approximately 20.35, the 725 is well-powered, suggesting good performance in lighter winds and a responsive feel. Its Ballast to Displacement Ratio (Bal/Disp) stands at a robust 0.416, indicating significant stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up to a good breeze and maintain a comfortable motion even in challenging conditions.

The Displacement to Length Ratio (Disp/LWL) of around 201.16 places the Waarschip 725 firmly in the category of a lighter, more performance-oriented cruiser rather than a heavy, traditional displacement vessel. This combination of ratios points to a boat that is nimble and engaging to sail. Owners and regatta results consistently confirm the 725's competitive spirit, particularly in events like the Dutch Quarter Ton Cup, where it has been noted for frequently sailing ahead of its class. The boat is generally described as a "light rigid cabin sailboat" and offers good sailing characteristics., 14] Some owners have specifically noted that examples with an extra deep keel remain very stable even in strong winds, enhancing its upwind performance and overall seaworthiness. Its calculated hull speed is 5.69 knots.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its compact length overall of just under 24 feet and a waterline length of 18.04 feet, the Waarschip 725 offers a functional rather than spacious interior. The maximum headroom is a modest 4.92 feet (1.50 meters), underscoring its design as a performance-focused Quarter Tonner.

Despite its racing pedigree, the interior of the Waarschip 725 is designed to provide basic cruising comfort. While exact standard layouts can vary, particularly due to its prevalence as a kit boat, typical arrangements usually include a V-berth forward, a compact salon with settee berths, and often a basic galley area. Grounded search reveals that some owners have customized their interiors extensively, with one example noted for a "fully panelled interior with many cupboards and drawers," making it unique among other Quarter Tonners. The focus is on maximizing usable space and providing essential amenities within the confines of its racing rule design.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Waarschip 725 frequently praise its solid construction and excellent sailing capabilities, especially its performance in club racing and the Dutch Quarter Ton Cup. The inherent strength derived from its plywood construction, often combined with epoxy sheathing, contributes to a sense of security and seaworthiness. Many owners have undertaken extensive voyages on their 725s, including trips on the North Sea and Baltic Sea, highlighting the boat's reliability for coastal and even some offshore cruising.

However, as with any vessel of its age, common maintenance considerations arise. Discussions on sailing forums indicate that potential buyers should pay close attention to the condition of the deck and hull, as some older Waarschip 725s may require significant repair work or a full refit, especially concerning issues like potential leaks or the overall state of the wooden structure if not meticulously maintained. Despite these potential challenges, the strong community of Waarschip owners and the availability of parts often facilitate maintenance and restoration efforts. The ability to customize and upgrade these boats, often by the owners themselves, adds to the unique pride of ownership associated with Waarschip vessels.