Waarschip 870 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

On the water, the Waarschip 870 is defined by its light displacement and stiff, responsive hull. Because plywood offers a higher strength-to-weight ratio than the solid fiberglass laminates of its era, the 870 possesses a low displacement-to-length ratio that allows it to accelerate quickly in light airs. The hull design features a deep fin keel and a balanced spade rudder, which, according to technical archives at Waarschip.info, provides the boat with exceptional tracking and a tight turning radius.

Owners and historical reviews often highlight the boat’s "sea-kindliness" in the choppy conditions of the North Sea. The multi-chine hull acts similarly to a modern hard-chined racing yacht, providing a stable "groove" when heeled. This stability is further enhanced by a high ballast ratio, typically exceeding 40%, which ensures the boat remains upright and controllable when the wind freshens. Unlike many modern wide-stern cruisers that can become "squirrelly" downwind, the 870 maintains a balanced helm even under a large spinnaker, a testament to the design work of Klaus Kremer and the technical team at Waarschip Werft.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Waarschip 870 is a masterclass in 1970s maritime woodworking, characterized by a warmth that modern production boats struggle to replicate. The layout is traditional yet functional, offering up to six berths. This includes a forward V-berth, a convertible dinette in the salon, and a functional quarter berth located aft on the starboard side. The use of mahogany and plywood creates a cozy "ship-shape" atmosphere, though headroom is generally limited to approximately 1.85 meters (6'1"), which may feel restrictive to taller sailors.

Several variations of the 870 exist due to its history as a kit boat. While the "Standard" layout features a linear galley to port and a dedicated navigation station, some owner-finished versions may show variations in cabinetry or storage solutions. The Waarschip 910 is the most prominent sibling model; it is essentially a "stretched" version of the 870 hull, providing a slightly larger cockpit and increased waterline length for improved hull speed. Sailors looking for a more performance-oriented experience often gravitate toward the "Quarter Ton" (725) or "Half Ton" versions, though these lack the interior volume and cruising amenities found in the 870.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Waarschip 870 must prioritize the structural integrity of the wood-epoxy system. While these boats are incredibly durable when maintained, neglect can lead to localized "soft spots."

1. Deck and Cockpit Core: Check the areas around stanchion bases and deck hardware. If the epoxy seal was breached and not resealed, moisture can penetrate the plywood core, leading to delamination or rot.
2. Keel Attachment: Inspect the wooden "keel-beam" where the cast-iron fin is bolted. Technical discussions on owner forums suggest looking for "smile" cracks at the leading edge of the keel, which could indicate the need for re-torqueing bolts or reinforcing the floor timbers.
3. Chainplate Leakage: The 870 uses stainless steel chainplates bolted through the hull/deck joint. Ensure there is no staining or darkening of the interior wood around these points, as this is a common entry point for freshwater.
4. Engine Mounts: Many 870s were originally fitted with small saildrives or early Volvo Penta diesels. Check the condition of the engine bed and the rubber saildrive diaphragm, which requires replacement every 7-10 years.

Community & Resources

The Waarschip 870 benefits from one of the most dedicated owner associations in Europe. The Waarschipzeilers (Waarschip Sailors Association) provides an extensive repository of technical drawings, trim guides, and restoration logs. This community is an essential resource for sourcing specific hardware or seeking advice on epoxy repair techniques unique to the lapstrake plywood construction.

The Verdict

The Waarschip 870 is a "sailor’s cruiser" that rewards those who appreciate craftsmanship and tactile feedback. It avoids the "clunky" feel of early fiberglass designs, offering instead a spirited and safe platform for coastal hopping or North Sea crossings.

Pros:

• Performance: Exceptionally fast and stiff for a 28-foot cruising boat.
• Aesthetics: Timeless wooden interior and a classic, aggressive silhouette.
• Support: Strong technical backing from an active class association.

Cons:

• Maintenance: Requires more vigilance than a fiberglass hull to prevent moisture ingress.
• Headroom: May feel cramped for crews over six feet tall.
• Engine Access: Typically tight quarters for mechanical maintenance in the engine compartment.