Lemsteraak Lemsteraak HA2 Vissermanaak Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Lemsteraak HA2 is a robust 20-ton vessel that utilizes the characteristic leeboard system to navigate both deep and shallow waters. Its performance is defined by a powerful gaff rig, which requires careful management but is significantly aided by modern upgrades. According to technical specifications from Chris Beuker Maritiem, the HA2 is equipped with a hydraulic mast-lowering system and hydraulic winches, which mitigate the physical labor traditionally associated with flat-bottom sailing.

In terms of sea-kindliness, the 13-meter hull provides a stable, "heavy-weather" feel. Because it lacks a deep keel, the boat does not "lean" into a tack as a modern monohull would; instead, it utilizes its 4.35-meter beam and weighted leeboards to track through the water. Owners often describe the handling as surprisingly nimble for a steel ship, particularly when the leeboards are properly adjusted to manage the center of lateral resistance. The inclusion of a 75hp VW Marine engine and a bow thruster further assists in low-speed maneuvering within the narrow Frisian canals and busy locks of the IJsselmeer.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The "Visserman" configuration prioritizes outdoor living and safety, but the HA2 manages to provide significant interior volume within its 1.80-meter headroom cabin. The layout is designed to accommodate five to six people comfortably. The forepeak typically houses a double bed and a single bed, while a clever utilization of space under the cockpit allows for an additional double berth near the galley.

Interior materials lean toward a "classic and warm" aesthetic, often utilizing light-colored panels paired with hardwood floors to offset the lack of a large coachroof window. This specific model features thermopane glass for the kitchen area, allowing for visibility to the outside even from below deck. Variations in the Bekebrede 13-meter hull can be found in boats like the HA1, which shares the same 13-meter length and SRF Harlingen pedigree but may differ in specific interior cabinetry and winch configurations. Sibling designs also include the smaller 10.50-meter Vissermanaak (like the HA4), which offers a more manageable footprint for couples but lacks the 1.80-meter standing height of the 13-meter class.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Lemsteraak HA2 is a frequent participant in the prestigious Dutch "Ronde en Platbodem" regattas and is a well-known figure in the charter fleets of Friesland. It is often cited as a benchmark for the "Visserman" revival, a movement where sailors transitioned from the more ornate "Roef" (deckhouse) models to the sleeker, more performance-oriented fisherman style. The vessel’s design history is documented through the Stichting Stamboek Ronde en Platbodemjachten (SSRP), the governing authority for traditional Dutch vessel registration, which maintains the historical integrity of the HA2’s lines and construction.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

When inspecting a Lemsteraak of this age and construction, technical focus should be directed toward the following areas:

• Wooden Spar Maintenance: The mast, boom, and leeboards (collectively the rondhouten) are susceptible to rot and UV damage. Recent service history for the HA2 indicates that the mast was replaced in 2024/2025, highlighting that these components typically require a major refit or replacement every 15–20 years.
• Steel Hull Integrity: As a steel vessel, checking for corrosion in the "bilge" areas and around the chainplates is critical. The hull is often finished in a high-build epoxy, but any scratches can lead to rapid localized oxidation.
• Hydraulic Systems: The HA2 relies heavily on its hydraulic mast-lowering and winch systems. These should be inspected for seal leaks, hose degradation, and the condition of the hydraulic fluid, as a failure here significantly complicates sail handling.
• Leeboard Mechanics: The "swords" or leeboards are heavy and under immense pressure when sailing. The pivot points and the winch cables that raise and lower them must be checked for wear and structural deformation.

Community & Resources

The primary community for this model is the Stichting Stamboek Ronde en Platbodemjachten (SSRP), which provides a technical archive for every registered Lemsteraak. Additionally, the Scheepshelling Blom shipyard is a vital resource for technical knowledge regarding the construction techniques and sail plans of these specific hulls. For owners interested in the competitive circuit, the Vereniging van Eigenaren van Lemsteraken (VA) organizes racing events and provides a platform for sharing maintenance tips and technical upgrades.

The Verdict

Pros:

• Shallow Draft: Capable of "drying out" on the Wadden Sea mudflats and navigating shallow inland waterways.
• Hydraulic Assistance: Modern winch and mast systems make a traditionally difficult boat accessible for smaller crews.
• Aesthetic Appeal: One of the most beautiful and historically significant designs in the Dutch maritime tradition.
• Resale Value: Lemsteraken built by SRF or Blom tend to hold their value well within the European market.

Cons:

• High Maintenance: Requires seasonal varnishing of large wooden components and ongoing steel preservation.
• Complexity: The gaff rig and leeboard systems introduce more points of failure than a standard Bermuda rig.
• Headroom Constraints: While 1.80m is respectable, taller sailors may find the "Visserman" cabin restrictive compared to "Jacht" models.