Lemsteraak Lemsteraak De Wulp Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

Sailing a Lemsteraak of this magnitude is an exercise in managing immense power and traditional physics. Without a deep keel, De Wulp relies on its massive oak leeboards (zijzwaarden) to provide lift and counter lateral drift when beating to windward. The handling is described in historical accounts as remarkably stable; the wide 4.80-meter beam ensures a high degree of form stability, allowing the vessel to carry its expansive gaff-rigged sail plan even in stiff breezes. The massive gaff-mainsail, combined with a large staysail and jib, requires coordinated crew work, though modern refinements like hydraulic steering and winch systems have made the boat more manageable for smaller groups.

The tracking of a flat-bottomed boat is inherently different from a fin-keel yacht; while it lacks the "bite" of a modern racer, the hull shape allows it to glide through shallow waters and "dry out" on sandbanks—a distinct advantage for cruising the Wadden Sea. In a blow, the weight of the steel hull and lead ballast provides a sea-kindly motion, absorbing chop rather than bouncing over it.

Interior Comfort & Variations

As a "Roef" model, De Wulp features a raised coachroof that allows for significant interior volume and exceptional headroom, reaching up to 2.10 meters in the main salon. This is a stark contrast to the "Visserman" siblings of the same hull length, which typically feature a large open cockpit and a more modest, forward-positioned living space. The 15-meter hull allows for an expansive three-cabin layout, accommodating six to eight guests in a mahogany-lined interior that reflects the craftsmanship of the 1912 era.

The layout typically includes a large U-shaped galley, a dedicated navigation station (often referred to in Dutch archives as a "kantoor" or office due to its size), and a spacious salon illuminated by traditional skylights (koekoeken). While later 15-meter variants designed by Hoek Design might offer more modern amenities and lightweight materials, De Wulp retains its heavy, traditional woodwork and bronze fittings, prioritizing historical accuracy and timeless luxury.

Popular Mentions & Media

De Wulp holds a significant place in the cultural history of Dutch yachting. It was famously owned by L.M.A. Hoffman, a prominent figure in the Royal Maas Yacht Club, who raced the vessel extensively in the early 20th century. The boat’s centenary was celebrated with the publication of a dedicated monograph, Honderd Jaar De Wulp ex Georgette, which chronicles its journey from the Dutch shipyards to the shores of San Diego and its eventual return and restoration in the Netherlands. Its presence is a staple at high-profile heritage events such as Sail Amsterdam and the SSRP reunions.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective owners of a century-old steel Lemsteraak must approach the purchase with a focus on structural preservation:

• Steel Hull Integrity: Comprehensive ultrasonic thickness testing is mandatory. Particular attention must be paid to the "kimmen" (bilges) and areas under the ballast where moisture can collect.
• Leeboard Mechanics: The oak leeboards are subject to rot and mechanical wear. Inspect the pivot points and the hoist systems, which must withstand several tons of pressure.
• Gaff Rig Tension: The massive wooden mast (often Oregon Pine) and the heavy gaff boom require regular inspection for checks (cracks) and rot. The standing rigging on a traditional aak is complex and requires specialized knowledge to tune correctly.
• Engine & Hydraulics: Many historic Lemsteraaks like De Wulp have been retrofitted with large diesels (such as the DAF 615). Ensure the cooling system and the hydraulic pumps—essential for operating the heavy rudder and leeboards—are in peak condition.

Community & Resources

The primary governing body for this model is the Stichting Stamboek Ronde en Platbodemjachten (SSRP), which maintains the definitive registry and technical standards for the class. For technical maintenance and traditional rigging expertise, the "Vereniging van Eigenaren van Lemsteraken" (VA-Class Association) provides a network for owners to share data on performance and preservation.

The Verdict

The Lemsteraak De Wulp is less a boat and more a piece of floating history, offering a sailing experience that connects the owner to a century of Dutch maritime tradition.

Pros:

• Exceptional Interior: Rare 2.10m headroom and luxurious 1912 craftsmanship.
• Shallow Draft: Capable of navigating inland waterways and drying out on tidal flats.
• Heritage Status: High resale value within the collector community and eligibility for exclusive regattas.

Cons:

• Maintenance Intensity: Steel and wood construction requires constant, expert-level upkeep.
• Operational Complexity: The large gaff rig and leeboards demand more physical effort and knowledge than a modern sloop.