From its base in the northern Netherlands, Wajer Yachts has been crafting superior-quality vessels for a little over three decades. Among the fastest boats in their class, Wajer Yachts boast fluent lines, trademark deep riding cockpit and low window frames for an ultra-sleek aesthetic that’s paired with the best in technical engineering below deck. And each, whilst sharing some signature characteristics, is unique.
A Founding Father
The story begins in 1992 when Dorus Wajer started building his own launches in his father’s shed, on the lakes near Amsterdam. From here, Wajer’s first creation, a 28-foot open-day boat entitled The Captain’s Launch, took to the water. And with this, Wajer Yachts was born, quickly gaining a reputation for quality and innovation. Expanding its product line to include larger and more luxurious yachts, the brand now offers an enticing range; from the entry-level Wajer 38 to the flagship Wajer 77. But while the company has seen a fast evolution and unfettered growth, it remains a family affair with Dries Wajer (son of Dorus) now at the helm, as MD of the company.
Handmade in Holland
The Netherlands has long been synonymous with seafaring and boatbuilding, so it’s appropriate that this should have been the birthplace of Wajer Yachts. Each boat is hand-built in the company’s state-of-the-art shipyards in Heeg, Lemmer and Heerenveen, Friesland, by 250 perfectionist craftspeople. Using the finest materials and the latest technology, the dedicated team produce vessels with distinctive design; from the sleek lines of the Wajer 38 to the bold styling of the Wajer 77, each yacht is a masterpiece of modern maritime architecture. Working alongside some of the world’s leading boat experts, such as Sinot Yacht Architecture & Design, Wajer ensures its yachts are both beautiful and functional. Every model is built to order onsite, with the ability to incorporate bespoke features.
Fulfilling a Need For Speed
Powered by high-performance engines, these yachts can reach impressive speeds while maintaining excellent fuel efficiency. Whether you’re cruising the Mediterranean or exploring the waters of the Caribbean, a Wajer yacht provides an exhilarating boating experience. But this is not at the expense of serenity or eco-cred. While the inbuilt Volvo Penta IPS system makes the vessels fast, they’re also quiet, with excellent knots per gallon ratio and lower emissions than many competitors. With an aerodynamic design, Wajer Yachts provide this combination of a faster ride and a sublime aesthetic, creating the illusion that the hull is slicing through the ocean — be it at rest or at play. And playtime in one of these is a whole lot of fun.
An Intuitive Sail
Novice sailors can rest easy when it comes to purchasing a Wajer Yacht as a first foray into the world of sailing. Each is filled with intuitive features to make the experience as effortless as possible. A deep-V hull design and supportive seating create a smooth ride for those unused to riding the waves. Docking is made easy with joystick control. Inflatable fenders can be deployed and retracted with the push of a button, and you can watch the anchor drop remotely, from a screen in the cockpit. Wajer has used technological innovation to take much of the hard work out of sailing, allowing you to sit back and enjoy the – spectacular – journey.
Service ‘Without a Worry’
Wajer’s team provides owners with all the support and guidance they need to make the most of their new purchase, be that training and maintenance, concierge services or on-board entertainment. Their Service ‘Without a worry’ ethos ensures every need is met, with representatives resident in France, Balearics, Mainland Spain and the United States, as well as on home turf. And ownership is not the only route to experiencing a Wajer on the waves. The company provides a charter service and fully organised day trips in Amsterdam, the Côte d’Azur & Ibiza — it’s an ideal way to try before you buy and dip your toe into this luxury world on water.
Awards and Accolades
This level of quality and innovation doesn’t go unnoticed. In 2018, the company was named “Best Dutch Yacht Builder” at the World Yachts Trophies awards ceremony in Cannes. And in 2019, the Wajer 55 won the prestigious “Motor Boat of the Year ” award at the London Boat Show. And the brand is a favourite among discerning sailors around the globe, appealing to new and veteran yachtspeople. The company takes a proactive approach to environmental responsibility too, incorporating sustainable materials and processes and energy-efficient systems into production methods.
The Flotilla
If this has whetted your appetite for some raw ocean power, what options are there for prospective customers? There are currently eight models in the fleet:
- Wajer 38 (ideal for day trips and weekend getaways with a spacious cockpit and a sunbed).
- Wajer 38 S (a sportier version of the Wajer 38 with a more streamlined design and powerful engines).
- Wajer 38 L (the uber-luxe sibling of the Wajer 38 with two cabins, a galley and a large living space).
- Wajer 44 (the newest addition to the Wajer fleet and fully connected according to the self-developed Smart Boating principle)
- Wajer 55 (with three cabins, living area and a fully equipped galley for longer cruises).
- Wajer 55 S (a sporty version of the Wajer 55 with a more powerful engine and a racier design).
- Wajer 55 HT (a hardtop version of the Wajer 55 with a retractable roof for open-air cruising and a full-beam master cabin).
- Wajer 77 (the flagship, the most silent in its class, sleeping nine, with a 400-nautical-mile range for longer trips).
