Jongert 25ds Information, Review, Specs

The 25ds series, which includes notable hulls like Guadalupe, Aneta, Jade S, and Hide N Sea, was conceived as a "world cruiser" capable of being handled by a small crew thanks to advanced (for the time) hydraulic sail-handling systems. The design is instantly recognizable by the characteristic Jongert "stern windows" and the Phoenix figurehead often found on the bow. While many of the ships in this series were built to the same general Doug Peterson naval architecture, the semi-custom nature of the shipyard allowed for significant variations in deck layout and internal configuration, ranging from flybridge models to those with separated pilot stations.

Sailing Performance & Handling

Despite its massive displacement—which typically ranges between 96 and 106 metric tons—the Jongert 25ds is noted for its surprisingly capable performance on ocean passages. This is largely attributed to the Doug Peterson hull, which moved away from the extreme full-keel designs of earlier Jongerts in favor of a more modern fin keel and separate rudder configuration. This underwater profile allows for better tracking and reduced drag, enabling the yacht to achieve fast ocean passages in the range of 180 to 240 nautical miles per day under the right conditions.

The ketch rig provides a versatile sail plan that is easy to balance as wind speeds increase. Handling such a large vessel is made possible through the integration of hydraulic furling systems for the genoa, yankee, and mainsail, typically controlled from the cockpit. On the helm, the 25ds is reported to be steady and "sea-kindly," with a motion that remains comfortable even in heavy weather. However, with a high displacement-to-length ratio, the yacht requires a significant breeze to overcome its inertia. In lighter airs, the heavy steel hull relies on its mechanical power, usually provided by a robust Mercedes-Benz or MTU diesel engine, to maintain a cruising speed of 8 to 10 knots.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the 25ds was almost exclusively the work of designer Peter Sijm, who emphasized the use of high-quality hardwoods, often finished in a classic teak or mahogany aesthetic. The hallmark of the "ds" (Deck Saloon) designation is the raised deckhouse, which serves as the social heart of the vessel. This space offers panoramic views of the horizon, providing a sheltered navigation station and a comfortable lounge that remains connected to the outdoor cockpit.

Below decks, the standard layout features a full-beam owner's stateroom aft, taking advantage of the large transom windows to create a bright, airy cabin with a private en-suite bathroom. Amidships, the 25ds usually provides two additional guest cabins, each with its own head. A distinct "lower saloon" provides a formal dining area and bar, often overlooking an open-plan galley. Variation exists among the hulls; for instance, the 1992-built Hide N Sea was commissioned with a separated pilot station in the forward part of the deckhouse to allow for greater privacy in the guest seating areas. Forward of the galley, the vessel typically includes dedicated crew quarters for two to four members, ensuring a clear separation between guest and service areas during long-distance charters or private cruises.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Jongert 25ds has maintained a high profile in the superyacht community through several well-documented global voyages. The hull Guadalupe (formerly known as Capalonga II) is perhaps the most famous example in recent years, having completed a 14,000-nautical-mile journey that included two Atlantic crossings following a major 2021 refit. Such voyages underscore the model's reputation as a reliable platform for "round-the-world" adventures. The 25ds series is frequently highlighted in technical retrospectives by nautical publications such as Boat International, which tracks the history and refit status of these Dutch-built classics.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Purchasing a Jongert 25ds today requires a rigorous technical assessment, as many of these hulls are now over 30 years old. Potential buyers should prioritize the following areas:

• Tank Integrity: Older steel Jongerts have a known vulnerability regarding the integrity of built-in steel fuel and water tanks. Over decades, internal corrosion can lead to leaks that are notoriously difficult and expensive to repair due to their location beneath the cabin sole.
• Hull Thickness: While Jongert used high-quality steel, any vessel of this age requires an ultrasonic hull survey. Specific attention should be paid to the bow thruster tunnel and the areas around the chain locker, where localized thinning is often discovered during refits.
• Hydraulic Systems: The "push-button" sailing of the 25ds relies on complex hydraulic manifolds and piping. Inspect the age of the hydraulic hoses and the condition of the Reckmann or Furlex furling units, as rebuilding these systems can be a significant capital expense.
• Teak Deck Condition: Original decks were laid over steel. If the teak has worn thin or the caulking has failed, moisture can become trapped against the steel deck, leading to hidden rust. Many 25ds models have transitioned to synthetic or non-skid painted decks during major refits to mitigate this risk.
• Rigging and Spars: The massive compression loads on a ketch rig of this size are significant. Buyers should verify the last date of a full "mast-out" rig inspection and look for any signs of "panting" or deformation at the mast steps.

Community & Resources

Owners and enthusiasts of the 25ds benefit from the continued existence of the Jongert Shipyard, which maintains archives for many of its classic builds and offers specialized refit services in the Netherlands. Technical data and historical build specifications are also managed by prominent Dutch brokerage houses that specialize in the brand's heritage, such as Haas International, which often provides detailed technical summaries of the "Traditional Line" variants.

The Verdict

The Jongert 25ds is a "gentleman’s" world cruiser that prioritizes safety, volume, and timeless Dutch aesthetics over raw racing speed. It is a yacht for the sailor who intends to live aboard for months at a time and values a hull that can shrug off a gale.

Pros

• Build Quality: Exceptional Dutch steel construction that meets high safety margins.
• Interior Volume: Massive living spaces with a world-class owner’s suite.
• Ease of Handling: Hydraulically powered systems allow the yacht to be managed by a minimal crew.
• Resale Value: Jongerts are considered the "Bentleys of the Sea" and tend to hold their value well among classic yacht collectors.

Cons

• Maintenance Costs: As a complex superyacht, the annual operating budget is significant.
• Light Wind Performance: The heavy displacement makes the yacht sluggish in breezes under 12-15 knots.
• Draft: With a draft typically exceeding 3 meters (10+ feet), many shallow-water cruising grounds and smaller marinas are inaccessible.