Waarschip 720 Information, Review, Specs

The model is frequently categorized alongside its close siblings, such as the Waarschip 725, which shares a similar footprint but features a more aggressive racing cockpit and lower profile. Later, the design was further refined into the Waarschip 730, which offered increased volume and modernized lines. The 720 remains a favorite for "do-it-yourself" sailors because it was sold both as a finished yacht and as a high-quality kit, meaning the level of finish can vary significantly between individual hulls depending on the skill of the original builder.

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Waarschip 720 is defined by its high power-to-weight ratio. Because plywood is naturally more buoyant and lighter than the thick solid-glass laminates used in the 1970s and 80s, the 720 accelerates quickly in light air. The multi-chine hull acts similarly to a modern hard-chine design; when the boat heels, it finds a "sweet spot" on the chine that provides a stable tracking effect and increases the effective waterline length.

On the helm, the 720 is known for being extremely communicative. Owners often describe the steering as "dinghy-like," offering immediate feedback that rewards careful sail trimming. The boat’s stability comes from a relatively high ballast ratio, typically featuring a cast iron keel that allows it to stand up to a breeze better than many other 24-footers. While it is a capable coastal cruiser, its light displacement means it can be lively in a chop; however, the sharpness of the bow entry helps it slice through waves rather than slamming. According to historical technical data from the Waarschip Archive, the boat was designed to be a "fast cruiser," a promise it fulfills by maintaining high average speeds even when loaded with cruising gear.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a vessel of 7.2 meters (approximately 23.6 feet), the Waarschip 720 offers a surprisingly functional interior, though it adheres to the "cozy" standards of traditional Dutch design. The layout typically features a classic V-berth forward, a central saloon with two settee berths, and a small galley area. Because the boat was available as a kit, interior variations are common. Some owners opted for a dedicated navigation table, while others expanded the galley storage.

The aesthetic is dominated by warm wood tones, as the interior hull sides are often left exposed to showcase the mahogany plywood construction. Headroom is limited, as is common in boats of this size and vintage, requiring a "seated" lifestyle once below deck. However, the 720 improved upon the 725's interior by raising the coachroof slightly, which provides a greater sense of light and space. The transition from the cockpit to the cabin is seamless, but the narrow beam (2.50m) means the interior feels most comfortable with a crew of two or a small family for weekend trips.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

The primary concern for any Waarschip 720 is the integrity of the plywood. While marine-grade mahogany plywood is incredibly strong, it is susceptible to "black rot" if water penetrates the protective epoxy or paint layers.

• End-Grain Inspection: The most critical areas for inspection are the end-grains of the plywood, particularly where the deck meets the hull and around the cockpit coamings. Any soft spots or discolored "black" wood indicate moisture ingress that requires immediate surgical repair.
• Keel Attachment: The keel bolts pass through a wooden keelson. Buyers should check for any signs of "weeping" rust or compression of the wood around the washers, which could suggest the keel has moved or the wood has softened.
• Chainplates: Inspect the areas where the shrouds attach to the hull. Because these are high-load points, any leak here can rot the structural bulkhead.
• The "Waarschip Smile": Look for a crack at the leading edge of the keel-to-hull joint. While common on many boats, in a wooden hull, it requires ensuring the wood hasn't been exposed to standing water.

Community & Resources

The Waarschip 720 benefits from one of the most dedicated owner associations in Europe. De Waarschippers, the official class association, is an invaluable resource for technical manuals, restoration advice, and organized rallies. The association maintains a deep archive of original building plans and provides a platform for owners to share modern epoxy coating techniques that can make these wooden boats as low-maintenance as their fiberglass counterparts.

The Verdict

The Waarschip 720 is a "sailor's sailboat" that offers a level of soul and performance rarely found in mass-produced fiberglass cruisers. It is an ideal choice for a buyer who prizes craftsmanship and sailing feel over standing headroom and modern plastic finishes.

Pros:

• Exceptional Agility: Light and fast, outperforming most cruising boats in its size class.
• Sustainable Construction: Built from renewable wood with a much lower carbon footprint than GRP.
• Strong Community: Extensive support from the Dutch Waarschip association.
• Aesthetic Appeal: The classic multi-chine lines and wood finish turn heads in any marina.

Cons:

• Maintenance Intensive: Requires a strict "no-leak" policy to prevent plywood rot.
• Limited Headroom: Not suitable for tall sailors or those seeking a "home-on-the-water" feel.
• Varying Build Quality: Kit-built examples must be surveyed carefully to ensure the original builder followed specifications.