Wajer 55

The term ‘Grand Tourer’ is well established in automotive circles. It’s a car that can cover long-distance trips at speed, as well as in style and comfort. When it comes to the floating equivalent, few boats fit the bill quite like the Wajer 55.

Built by a family-owned yard in Heeg, the Netherlands, the new Wajer 55 is almost entirely redesigned from its 2016 predecessor to bring it in line to Wajer’s 77 and 44 models. At 16.8 metres, it sits in an interesting part of the market. It’s substantial enough for a Mediterranean crossing, but nimble enough for a hands-on owner who’d rather take the wheel themselves. Just like a Grand Tourer should be.

“My vision was to build something very beautiful, something you can drive yourself and stay over on the weekend with friends or family,” says CEO Dries Wajer.

And the numbers stack up accordingly. Triple Volvo Penta IPS600 engines, producing 440hp apiece, power the 55 to a top speed of 38 knots and a cruising range of 390 nautical miles. Below its stretched, low-slung hull, the deep-V design keeps it stable and composed in choppier conditions. On deck, a symmetrical layout with two retractable tables and a bespoke leather-and-metal steering-wheel frame a considered cockpit, complete with four supportive, custom-made seats.

It’s substantial enough for a Mediterranean crossing, but nimble enough for an owner who’d rather take the wheel themselves

Automatic fenders disappear flush into the hull, while an anchor arm retracts entirely out of sight. There are also integrated cleats, and an aft garage beneath the sunpad that’s large enough to swallow a Williams Turbo Jet tender. Pricing of the latest 55 is available on application.