A Dream Classic for Long-Distance Sailing: De Vries Round-the-World Ketch Made of Indestructible Corten Steel An exceptional, extremely seaworthy long-keel steel ketch is for sale. This beautiful sailing yacht was constructed from an indestructible Corten steel alloy by the renowned Dutch shipyard P. Valk in Franeker, specifically for worldwide voyages (CE Category A – ocean-going), based on the plans and under the supervision of the legendary design firm de Vries Lentsch.
This vessel is in a state of maintenance that is second to none. It has been continuously and uncompromisingly maintained and optimized by the previous owner (a marine engineer) as well as by the shipyard. Virtually all equipment—from the ice-class seacocks (slides) to the tanks—is extremely oversized, a feature otherwise typically found only in large commercial vessels.
Key specifications at a glance: - Manufacturer / Designer: De Vries / de Vries Lentsch (Shipyard: P. Valk) - Year of construction: 1975 - Condition: Very good, continuously modernized and maintained by the shipyard - Certification: CE Marking A (ocean-going) - Material: High-quality, robust Corten steel - Keel type: Long keel (extremely stable on course and seaworthy) - Dimensions: Length 12.80 m | Beam 3.65 m | Draft 1.70 m - Displacement: approx. 16 metric tons - Headroom: A comfortable 198 cm in the salon - Layout: 3 cabins, 5 berths, 1 spacious bathroom - Certified passenger capacity: 7 people - Propulsion: Powerful and indestructible BL Thornycroft diesel engine with 75 PS (55 kW), shaft drive (D-Drive) + bow thruster for easy maneuvering
Extensive refits & modernizations: In recent years, no expense or effort has been spared to keep the vessel up to date:
Hull & Bilges: The underwater hull and all bilges were completely sandblasted and resealed with an epoxy-based coating (including high-quality underwater paint).
Deck & Superstructure: A new, elegant teak deck has been installed. All deck superstructures, handrails, and railing posts have been meticulously bolted to V4A stainless steel spacers to prevent corrosion. The rubbing strake and deckhouse frame are also made of stainless steel. All hatches are from the premium manufacturer Manship (stainless steel).
Rig & Engine: The robust Thornycroft engine has been thoroughly overhauled, and the engine’s electrical system has been brought up to the latest standards. A matching replacement engine is also included in the purchase price! In addition, new sails and booms have been purchased.
Interior: The interior finish, crafted from high-quality woods (teak and mahogany), was completely renewed a few years ago.
Living Comfort & Layout: - The interior offers both families and couples a perfect sense of space and plenty of comfort on long voyages. - Cozy salon with an inviting seating area, a pilot’s berth, and an impressive 1.98 m of headroom. - Separate berths in the forepeak and in the cozy aft cabin. - Full-sized galley with gas stove, oven, sink, and refrigerator. - Large bathroom with a Rheinstrom toilet and shower (including a holding tank). - Hot water and pressurized water systems, as well as a powerful Webasto heater, ensure comfort even in colder waters.
Navigation & Equipment (Excerpt): The boat is fully equipped for long-distance cruising: - Navigation: Furuno GPS, radar, chartplotter, depth sounder, speedometer, fluxgate compass, VHF radio, and radar reflector. - Electrical / Power: 12V/24V system, Victron inverter and charger, shore power connection, multiple batteries. Preparations for the easy installation of solar panels and a wind generator are already in place. - Sails: Full set of sails, including spinnaker and blister. - Safety & Accessories: Life raft, hard-hulled dinghy with matching davits at the stern, bow windlass with anchor, bilge pumps, fire extinguisher. - Tarps: Comprehensive tarp package (full cover, winter cover, cockpit cover, sprayhood, bimini top). - Additional Comfort: Deck wash pump, deck shower, swim ladder, gangway, and TV/radio in the salon.
Conclusion: This yacht was built to sail around the world safely and comfortably. It is currently perfectly equipped for the Baltic Sea and ready to set sail on new adventures at a moment’s notice. Anyone looking for an authentic, extremely solidly built, and perfectly maintained blue-water yacht with character and a first-class history will find exactly what they’re looking for here.
