Test: Linssen Classic Sturdy 36 Deckbridge - Steel hulls: Linssen Classic Sturdy 36 Deckbridge

The Dutchman Jac. Linssen would probably never have dreamed of it. Since 2011, the fortunes of the family-run shipyard is firmly in the hands of Yvonne, Jac and Ruben Linssen, the third generation, who are celebrating the company's 66th anniversary this year.

Boats in three categories from ten to almost 18 metres in length are built in Maasbracht and Echt "on the production line". Series production is used, with computers controlling the cutting of steel and wood from start to finish. This has the great advantage that everything that is produced always fits. However, another disadvantage is that custom-built boats can run up against design limitations.

The fact that the steel hulls are welded together, blasted and coated inside and out with the appropriate protective colours, paints and antifoulings in the company's own paint shop is just as much a part of the company philosophy as the fact that everything to do with wood is also manufactured in-house. Technology and electronics come from outside.

Overall, there are no complaints about the workmanship, at best about the one or other design, such as the hidden arrangement of the main engine/battery switch in the engine compartment. It is a victim of the modular design. In contrast, the main on-board power switch and fuses are easily accessible under the saloon bench seat.

And, while the wooden interior leaves the expected neat impression inside, the rustic paintwork on the saloon door conveys the smart charm of a harbour launch.
The request for the deckbridge yacht originated in Switzerland and was developed in close co-operation with the Linssen dealer there. The result is a boat with a flybridge, second steering position, table, seating and sunbathing facilities.

What makes it special is the access to the top, which is usually located aft of the cockpit and takes up space on the fly. On the test boat, it is located at the front. You climb from the side decks onto the cabin canopy and from there onto the stairs to the top. To ensure that this is done without danger, suitably mounted handrails provide a good grip.

Upstairs, the skipper sits in a bucket seat to starboard and the co-driver sits opposite on the bench seat. The equipment above includes a galley (extra), bench seat with table, folding mast and the sunbed aft. Fresh air constantly flows through the open hatch and the driver is also exposed to the wind without protection. That's where the special features end and the rest underneath is an ordinary steel displacement boat with a cabin including a double berth in the foredeck and a separate bathroom with toilet that is accessible to everyone. A good idea is the couch in the saloon, which can be converted into a double bed in a few simple steps. The saloon galley with gas cooker is part of the standard equipment.

There is no option when it comes to engine selection: a D2-75 from Volvo Penta delivers 75 hp to the shaft. This means that the test boat only just reaches its theoretical hull speed of 7.5 knots when it starts up. Fast-flowing waters, such as the Rhine at the Binger Loch, can become a problem depending on the water level. As with any displacement boat, the range of our test boat depends on speed and rpm.

If the engine is running at 900 rpm, you can theoretically travel 1514 nm on one tank of fuel at a speed of 3.0 knots. At full throttle at 7.5 kn, you can reach 140 nm until the tank reserve of 15 % is reached. The waves generated by the boat are hardly noticeable at 1500 rpm or a speed of 5.1 kn, they only start to develop from 2000 rpm or 6.0 kn.

The Linssen follows each impact directly and travels in a circle with a diameter of about 1 ½ boat lengths at full astern. The standard bow thruster is used to steer a straight course in reverse. Once turned, the boat maintains this course ahead. Two large hatches in the saloon open the way into the engine compartment, where you can access everything for servicing and checking - more or less conveniently. The fuel pre-filter is criticised: no water alarm sensor.

The tensile and compressive forces of the drive shaft are absorbed by a separate thrust bearing and a homokinetic bearing serves as a connection between the shaft and motor. This allows the motor to be mounted on soft bearings, which means that hardly any vibrations are transmitted via the foundations. Together with the floating saloon floor (with foam between the steel and wooden floor), this ensures moderate sound pressure levels.

At full speed, we measured a maximum of 68 dB/A in the saloon above the engine and 76 dB/A in the cockpit. This is ideal, but also has a disadvantage. You can hear what you don't normally hear: the "singing" gearshift and throttle cables. Both driving positions are clearly laid out and equipped with the essentials. Only a plumb line and no compass as standard is not enough for a boat that is travelling in coastal waters (CE C). The ample storage space and the plastic gunwale, which deserves to be called a rubbing strake, deserve praise.

Conclusion
The Linssen Classic Sturdy 36 Sedan Deckbridge is a boat for two that can also take guests on board for a longer trip. We don't know how the boat will behave at sea, as our test area hardly had any waves. In terms of motorisation, we would have liked a little more power. The workmanship gives no cause for criticism.

Data sheet: Linssen Classic Sturdy 36 Sedan Deckbridge

Shipyard: Linssen Yachts B.V.

Type designation: Linssen Classic Sturdy 36 Sedan Deckbridge

CE category: C - Coastal waters

Material of hull and deck: Steel

Length: 11,10 m

Width: 3,45 m

Displacement: 10,00 t

Price: 353.000,00 €