Waarschip 730 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Waarschip 730 is frequently described as a "stiff" and "predictable" sailor, a direct result of its high ballast ratio and the inherent rigidity of its plywood-epoxy hull. Unlike many fiberglass boats of the same era, the 730 does not "oil-can" or flex in a chop; instead, it cuts through waves with a rhythmic, wooden resonance that many owners find more comforting. Its performance is heavily influenced by its 725 lineage, but the 730 is notably more forgiving. According to technical documentation from Waarschip, the hull shape was optimized to provide more stability in a seaway, making it a preferred choice for North Sea crossings and coastal passages.

Under sail, the boat tracks exceptionally well due to its deep fin keel and well-balanced rudder. In light airs, it remains surprisingly competitive, benefiting from a low wetted surface area. However, the increased freeboard compared to the 725 does introduce slightly more windage, which can be felt when maneuvering in tight marinas under power or when beating into a stiff breeze. Owners often note that the boat feels "bigger" than its 7.3-meter length, handling gusty conditions with a level of composure typically found in 30-footers.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Waarschip 730 is where it diverges most significantly from its "Quarter Tonner" siblings. By raising the deck line and deepening the cabin sole, the designers achieved enough headroom to make multi-day cruising viable for a small family. The layout typically features a classic V-berth forward, followed by two longitudinal settees in the main salon that double as sea berths. Because many 730s were sold as kits, the level of interior finish can vary wildly; factory-finished models often feature high-quality mahogany veneers and robust joinery, while amateur-built examples may show more utilitarian designs.

A small galley is usually situated near the companionway, often equipped with a simple two-burner stove and a sink. The 730 also benefits from more storage lockers than the 725, utilizing the extra volume under the bunks and behind the settee backs. Unlike the 740, which pushed the "cruiser" concept even further with a different hull shape, the 730 retains the 725’s performance-oriented underwater profile while providing the "weekend" comforts required for extended stays.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

The primary concern for any Waarschip 730 buyer is the integrity of the wood. While the epoxy-treated plywood is exceptionally strong, any breach in the coating can lead to localized rot.

• Keel Attachment: Inspect the area where the cast-iron keel meets the wooden hull. This is a high-stress point where the epoxy seal can crack over time, allowing moisture to penetrate the plywood core. Look for weeping rust or discoloration in the bilge.
• Deck and Coachroof Joints: The transition between the deck and the cabin house is a common site for leaks. Check for "soft spots" in the plywood deck, particularly around the chainplates and stanchion bases, where standing water can infiltrate screw holes.
• Rudder Blade: The wooden rudders on these models are prone to delamination if they have been left in the water year-round without proper maintenance. Ensure the blade is dry and that there is no "slop" in the pintles and gudgeons.
• Chainplate Integrity: In older models, the chainplates are bolted through the wooden structure. Any signs of "tea-staining" (rust streaks) on the interior wood indicate a failure of the sealant, which can compromise the structural bulkhead over time.

Community & Resources

The Waarschip 730 enjoys a dedicated following, particularly in Northern Europe. The most prominent resource for technical data and restoration advice is the Waarschip Club, an active association that hosts rallies and maintains a deep archive of original blueprints and modification guides. Because these boats were so frequently home-built, this community is essential for identifying whether a specific vessel was constructed by the shipyard or a private individual.

The Verdict

The Waarschip 730 is a "sailor’s cruiser" that successfully balances the agility of a racing hull with the basic necessities for coastal exploration. It is an ideal choice for the enthusiast who values the tactile feel of a wooden boat but wants the modern protection of epoxy.

Pros

• Exceptional stiffness and safety for a boat of its size.
• Modern plywood-epoxy construction offers a longer lifespan than traditional wood.
• Superior sailing performance compared to most GRP cruisers of the same era.
• Active owner community and strong resale value in the Netherlands.

Cons

• Requires more vigilant maintenance of the paint and epoxy system than fiberglass.
• Kit-built variations mean buyers must carefully vet the build quality of each hull.
• Increased windage compared to its racing-centric sibling, the 725.