Jongert 2000S Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Jongert 2000S are defined by its transition to aluminum. While still a substantial vessel with a displacement often exceeding 45 tons, the use of Almg4.5Mn aluminum allowed for a significantly higher ballast-to-displacement ratio than its steel predecessors. This results in a much stiffer boat that stands up well to its canvas in offshore conditions. According to technical archives from the Jongert Shipyard, the hull design was optimized for blue-water passage-making, prioritizing stability and a comfortable motion over pure light-air speed.

Handling is largely governed by a sophisticated hydraulic system. In this era, Jongert was a pioneer in "push-button" sailing, and the 2000S typically features hydraulic furling for the mainsail (usually in-mast), genoa, and staysail. The yacht is designed to be managed by a minimal crew, often just a couple, despite its 65-foot length. However, the sheer scale of the gear means that the "feel" at the helm is more akin to a small ship than a responsive racer. The tracking is reported to be excellent due to a longish fin keel and a large, protected skeg-hung rudder, which provides a sense of security when running in heavy following seas.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Jongert 2000S is a showcase of Dutch joinery, typically finished in semi-gloss teak or mahogany. Because these yachts were semi-custom, variations exist, but the standard layout usually includes a massive full-beam owner’s stateroom aft, taking advantage of the quietest part of the boat under sail. Two guest cabins are typically situated forward of the salon, each with ensuite heads.

One of the most significant variations involves the galley and crew configuration. In some hulls, the galley is located "down" and forward, adjacent to a dedicated crew cabin, while others utilize a more social "galley-up" or midships arrangement. The "S" model’s lower profile deckhouse means that while it lacks the panoramic 360-degree views of the later "T-line" or deck-saloon models, it offers a more "seagoing" feel with deep, secure seating and high-quality stainless steel handrails throughout. The soundproofing is a particular highlight; Jongert famously floated their interiors on rubber mounts to minimize vibration and engine noise, a feature often noted in period reviews by Boat International.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Jongert 2000S must approach the purchase with a "big boat" mentality, as the complexity of the systems requires specialized knowledge.

• Aluminum Hull Integrity: While aluminum is a superior hull material for strength-to-weight, it is susceptible to galvanic corrosion. A thorough ultrasonic hull thickness test is mandatory. Pay specific attention to areas around through-hull fittings and where dissimilar metals (like stainless steel bolts) may have caused localized pitting.
• Hydraulic System Age: The 2000S relies heavily on Lewmar or Hydromar hydraulic packs to run winches and furlers. At this age, seals, hoses, and valves often require comprehensive overhauls. A leak in the manifold can disable the yacht’s ability to reef or douse sails.
• Teak Deck Condition: Jongert decks from this era were traditionally very thick (up to 22mm), but many 2000S models are now reaching the end of their second or third decade. If the teak is original, check for thinning or "proud" screws, as a full replacement on a yacht of this scale is a significant six-figure capital expenditure.
• Plexiglass and Seals: The signature oversized Jongert hull ports and deckhouse windows are prone to crazing or seal failure over time. Replacing these custom-curved units is difficult and expensive, often requiring sourcing from the original European manufacturers.

Community & Resources

The Jongert community is relatively small but highly dedicated, centered largely in the Mediterranean and Northern Europe. Technical support is primarily managed through the Jongert Shipyard’s own service department in Wieringerwerf, which maintains an extensive archive of original blueprints and wiring diagrams for every hull built. While there is no formal "owners association" in the mold of production brands, the Jongert Heritage division remains a vital resource for refit history and technical specifications.

The Verdict

The Jongert 2000S remains a benchmark for luxury blue-water cruising, offering a level of build quality that modern production yachts rarely match. It is a vessel for the serious voyager who values safety and silence over the agility of a modern performance cruiser.

Pros:

• Exceptional Dutch build quality and world-class interior joinery.
• Quiet, vibration-free operation under power due to advanced soundproofing.
• Robust aluminum construction offers superior impact resistance for global cruising.
• Simplified sail handling via integrated hydraulic systems.

Cons:

• High maintenance costs associated with complex hydraulic and electrical systems.
• The "Sport" designation is relative; it remains a heavy yacht that requires significant wind to perform.
• Draft can be restrictive for shallower cruising grounds like the Bahamas.