Sea Trial: Zeelander 5 – a timeless lobster boat of the very highest standard

Zeelander Yachts has been in existence since 2002. Back then, the first hulls were still being manufactured in Turkey and the USA. Today, they are built in the Netherlands, near Groot-Ammers. Three different boat sizes, ranging from 48 to 66 feet, are currently available.

The Zeelander 5 was the smallest boat we sailed. From the outside, however, its larger sisters look very similar – which is entirely intentional. The boat was designed by no less a figure than Cor D. Rover, who usually designs superyachts for Horizon and similar shipyards. For Zeelander, he showcased his classic side and designed a boat in the American lobster-style.

The flowing lines characteristic of Zeelander yachts are also evident in the Z5. Shipyard founder and owner Sietse Koopmans says: “The Zeelander 5 embodies our shipyard’s philosophy. It is a sophisticated yacht that stands out from the crowd. The exterior is a continuation of the lines of the successful Z72, and the interior design is truly exceptional for a yacht of this size.”

"The interior design is truly exceptional for a yacht of this size." (Sietse Koopmans, founder of the shipyard)

The Zeelander’s transom also serves as a swimming platform

We enter the Z5 through the electrically operated side doors recessed into the hull and find ourselves directly in the boat’s spacious aft area. A large U-shaped sofa, complete with a table, is fitted here. The sofa cushions, like all the upholstery, are white. They look very smart, are well padded and complement the Flexiteak perfectly. This is laid across the entire deck and in the cockpit.

The large transom on this Dutch-built boat also serves as a swimming platform. It folds out hydraulically and is large enough to accommodate sun loungers and a small table. A cool feature is the pair of deckchairs recessed into the swimming platform. Back in the stern, an electronically retractable partition separates the saloon from the aft area. It is uncluttered and offers good all-round visibility. On the port side, there is a built-in saloon table with a U-shaped sofa. It comfortably seats up to eight people.

High-quality interior and plenty of space

Further forward, also on the port side, is the helm station with two large chartplotters. Steering can be controlled either via a joystick or a steering wheel. The panoramic view from the helm station is particularly noteworthy, offering the helmsman a clear 360-degree view. The raised sofa surrounding the central dining table brings the passengers’ line of sight up to the same level as the helmsman’s, and the driver’s seats can be folded down to form the dining table. On the starboard side is a wet room with a washbasin.

Further forward, one deck below via a spiral staircase, are the VIP and master cabins, as well as two bathrooms. The bow cabin is fitted with a large double bed and two wardrobes. The spacious owner’s cabin is located below the saloon. A 1.60 m x 2.00 m bed, positioned across the width of the boat, invites you to relax whilst offering a superb view through the hull windows. Of course, a small sideboard with an armchair is a must. The wardrobe is fully mirrored and offers plenty of storage space. Even large suitcases can be stowed away here with ease. The interior of the entire boat is of a very high standard.

The Pod propulsion system makes the Zeelander economical and manoeuvrable

The Zeelander is powered by three Volvo Penta IPS engines. Each of the D6 engines delivers 480 PS. One advantage of the IPS (pod) system over traditional shaft or Z-drive systems is its superior manoeuvrability. According to the manufacturer, it also enables speeds and acceleration to be up to 20 per cent higher, as well as a range that is up to 40 per cent greater. Furthermore, this propulsion system saves space in the engine compartment.

But how does the boat handle, given its unladen weight of 16.5 tonnes? One might almost say it’s unspectacular. That’s not entirely true, of course. With a top speed of 40 knots, the boat is certainly quick. We were particularly struck by how quiet it is. At a cruising speed of around 20 knots, the noise level is measured at 66 dB(A). This is quiet for a motorboat and is equivalent to a slightly louder conversation. “I’ve been working on noise and vibrations for 20 years. I’ve even set up a company that specialises in this,” says Koopmans as we chat on the boat.

At 20 knots, the chartplotter shows a fuel consumption of approximately 123 litres of diesel. From this, a range of 268 nautical miles can be calculated. At eight knots, with the 2,000-litre tank including a 15 per cent reserve, we calculate a range of around 1,280 nautical miles. The noise level is then 63 dB(A).

Manoeuvres with the Zeelander

When manoeuvring, the Zeelander doesn’t put up any fuss and responds precisely to the skipper’s rudder inputs. As the boat accelerates, the bow lifts slightly, but visibility remains good at all times. Unfortunately, we were only able to test the boat on the Rhine near Rotterdam, where we had to adhere to the navigation rules, meaning that tight manoeuvres weren’t possible. Nevertheless, we were able to get a good impression and can say that, for a 48-foot boat, the Zeelander 5 handles well and feels sporty.

The most extraordinary thing about the whole boat, however, is probably the wraparound coaming and the cockpit table. These parts look like wood, but are actually GRP components with a wood-effect finish painted onto them. According to the shipyard, there are only a handful of people in the world who can do this. We only realised this when we were told – very cool. The advantage is that real teak has become very expensive and is not without its environmental concerns. What’s more, it needs to be sanded or oiled regularly. This isn’t necessary with painted surfaces; here, all that’s needed is a bit of polishing.

BOOTE – Conclusion

The Zeelander 5 is a boat for those who like to stand out and want something truly special. Perhaps it could even be compared to an expensive and rare sports car. The sort of people who buy a boat like this are likely to be the same sort of people who buy such a car. After all, there is simply nothing to fault about it. Everything is not just good, but perfectly crafted – whether it’s the paintwork or the fittings, everything is of the very highest standard.

Technical Specifications

• Overall length: 14.7 m
• Width: 4.3 m
• Berths: 6
• Type: 5
• CE category: B/12 people
• Weight (excluding engine): 16,500 kg
• Engine: 2x Volvo Penta IPS 480 PS
• Engine capacity: 2 x 5.5 litres
• Price: on request
• Further information: www.zeelander.com

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