Waarschip 700 LD Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Waarschip 700 LD are defined by its favorable ballast-to-displacement ratio and the inherent lightness of its wood-composite hull. Unlike mass-produced fiberglass boats of similar length, the 700 LD benefits from the high strength-to-weight ratio of marine plywood, which minimizes momentum-killing weight in the ends of the boat. This results in a vessel that tracks exceptionally well and accelerates quickly out of tacks.

On the water, the 700 LD is known for its "big boat" feel, a trait often attributed to its generous ballast and the grip provided by its refined keel design. While the shallow draft version (LD) provides access to thinner waters, it maintains stability through a well-distributed lead bulb or heavy iron fin, depending on the specific year of production. Owners frequently report that the boat handles the choppy conditions of the Markermeer and Wadden Sea with a predictable, sea-kindly motion. The fractional rig is easily tuned, allowing for precision sail trimming that appeals to former dinghy sailors transitioning to cabin boats. The boat’s performance is often compared to its more aggressive sibling, the Waarschip 725 Quarter Tonner, though the 700 LD offers a more forgiving helm and better manners when sailing short-handed.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Waarschip 700 LD is a masterclass in nautical joinery, reflecting the builder's roots in artisanal woodworking. Despite its 7-meter length, the cabin provides a surprisingly functional layout for a family of four. The "LD" model typically features a V-berth forward and two generous quarter-berths extending aft under the cockpit seats. The center of the boat houses a compact galley and a small saloon table, which is often integrated into the keel trunk or mast support.

A key appeal of the 700 series is the warmth of the wood-finished interior, which avoids the sterile, plastic feel of many contemporary cruisers. The use of white-painted bulkheads contrasted with varnished mahogany trim creates an airy, bright atmosphere despite the modest headroom. Sibling variants are common due to Waarschip’s history of offering boats as kits; while the factory-finished models follow a standardized layout, owner-built versions may feature custom cabinetry or alternative navigation station configurations. The 700 LD is also closely related to the Waarschip 700 HD (High Displacement/Deep Draft) variant, which offers a deeper keel for those prioritizing upwind performance over shallow-water access. Another sibling, the Waarschip 740, provides a slightly lengthened hull for those seeking more cockpit space and a more pronounced "cruiser" aesthetic.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

When inspecting a Waarschip 700 LD, the primary focus must be on the integrity of the wood-epoxy bond. While epoxy saturation significantly reduces maintenance compared to traditional wooden boats, the "Achilles heel" remains any area where the epoxy skin has been breached.

• Keel Attachment Point: Inspect the area around the keel bolts for signs of compression or moisture ingress. Because the keel is bolted through a wooden stump, any history of hard groundings can lead to hairline cracks in the epoxy coating, allowing water to reach the plywood core.
• Chine Joints: The 700 LD is a multi-chine hull. Carefully examine the "corners" of the hull (the chines) for signs of delamination or impact damage. Any softness in these areas indicates a major structural repair is necessary.
• Deck Hardware Bedding: Check for "moisture halos" around stanchion bases, cleats, and winches. If hardware was not properly bedded with sealant, water can track into the deck core, leading to localized rot that is difficult to fix once it spreads.
• Rudder Blade: The spade rudders on these models are often built of plywood and epoxy. Look for swelling or splitting along the edges, which suggests the internal wood has absorbed water.
• Chainplates: Verify the integrity of the chainplate attachments to the bulkheads. Any signs of rust streaking on the wood or "weeping" at the deck entry point should be addressed immediately.

Community & Resources

The Waarschip 700 LD enjoys a dedicated following, supported by one of the most active owner associations in Europe. The Waarschipzeilers (Waarschip Sailing Association) is the primary hub for technical data, maintenance advice, and organized rallies. This community is an invaluable resource for owners of kit-built boats, providing access to original plans and modern epoxy-repair techniques. Technical documentation and original builder brochures can also be found through the Waarschip Werft official archives, which continues to support the legacy models with spare parts and consultation.

The Verdict

The Waarschip 700 LD is a distinctive, high-performance cruiser that offers a tactile connection to the water rarely found in modern production boats. It is an ideal choice for the sailor who values craftsmanship and speed over standing headroom and "condo-on-the-water" amenities.

Pros:

• Excellent light-wind performance and responsiveness.
• High-quality, warm interior aesthetic.
• Strong, stiff construction thanks to the wood-epoxy multi-chine hull.
• Active owner community and strong resale value in the Dutch/German markets.

Cons:

• Requires more vigilant maintenance of the hull’s exterior skin than fiberglass.
• Limited standing headroom compared to modern 23-footers.
• Shallow draft (LD) version sacrifices some absolute upwind pointing ability.