Waarschip 570 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

Despite its diminutive length, the Waarschip 570 is frequently described as a "big" small boat. The hull features a distinct multichine design, which provides significant initial stability; once the boat heels to its first chine, it settles into a groove that allows it to track with surprising precision. With a displacement-to-length ratio that favors responsiveness, the 570 feels active and "nervous" in a positive sense, reacting instantly to rudder movements and sail trim.

The boat typically carries a high ballast ratio, often with a fixed keel of roughly 1.00 meter (3.3 feet), though some variations exist. This weight distribution allows the 570 to handle freshening breezes better than many fiberglass boats of similar size. Owners often report that while the boat is light enough to be lively in light airs, it remains remarkably "dry" in a chop due to the flare of its forward chines, which deflect spray away from the cockpit. Because it was designed during an era influenced by the IOR (International Offshore Rule), it maintains decent upwind performance, though it truly excels on a reach where the flat sections of its plywood hull can occasionally encourage a transitional plane in high-wind gusts.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a vessel under 19 feet, the interior of the Waarschip 570 is an exercise in efficient Dutch cabinetry. The cabin is typically configured with four berths: a V-berth in the bow and two long settee berths in the main salon. While the headroom is admittedly limited—requiring most adults to remain seated or hunched—the use of varnished wood and white-painted bulkheads creates a warm, "shipshape" atmosphere that many modern plastic interiors lack.

Sibling models often share the same DNA but cater to different needs. The Waarschip 600 and 660 offer slightly more volume for those intending to spend more than a weekend aboard. In the 570, the layout is usually minimalist, often featuring a slide-out galley drawer or a simple niche for a portable stove. The variations in the 570 are frequently the result of its kit-built nature; some examples feature "doghouse" cabin trunks for slightly better visibility, while others emphasize a larger cockpit for daysailing.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

The longevity of a Waarschip 570 is entirely dependent on the quality of its original seal and subsequent maintenance. Because these are wooden boats, buyers must prioritize a "tap test" and moisture meter reading across the hull.

• Chine Delamination: The joints where the plywood panels meet are the most vulnerable points. Inspect the fiberglass/epoxy reinforcement along the chines for any signs of cracking or "milky" white spots, which indicate water ingress and potential rot.
• The Keel Beam: The area where the keel attaches to the wooden deadwood is a common site for structural concern. Look for rust streaks from the keel bolts or softness in the timber surrounding the attachment points.
• Deck and Cockpit Coamings: Horizontal surfaces often suffer from UV degradation. Check the cockpit sole and the edges of the cabin trunk for soft spots where water may have sat under a failing varnish or paint layer.
• Mast Step Compression: Ensure the wooden pillar or bulkhead supporting the mast step has not compressed over decades of rig tension.

Community & Resources

The culture surrounding the 570 is exceptionally robust, centered largely in the Netherlands and Germany. The Waarschip Club (Waarschippers) is the primary technical authority, maintaining extensive archives on construction techniques, sail plans, and restoration projects. This community provides a vital safety net for owners, offering advice on epoxy brands and plywood grades that are compatible with the original 1970s construction.

The Verdict

The Waarschip 570 is an ideal choice for the "purist" sailor who values craftsmanship and feedback over sheer interior volume. It is a rewarding boat to own for those willing to maintain a wooden hull, offering a level of character and sailing pedigree rarely found in the sub-20-foot category.

Pros

• Exceptional stiffness and stability for its size.
• Timeless aesthetic with a warm, wood-focused interior.
• Easily trailered and launched compared to deeper-draft cruisers.
• Strong community support and technical documentation.

Cons

• Requires more maintenance than a GRP (fiberglass) equivalent.
• Limited headroom and cramped quarters for extended cruising.
• Vulnerable to "neglect rot" if the epoxy skin is breached.