Behind the scenes: Dries and Ronald about the design philosophy of the new Wajer 55
What started as a conversation about our latest model, the new Wajer 55, quickly turned into a deeper reflection on how we work. At Wajer, we don’t just build yachts — we shape our vision with a sculptor's eye, always pursuing clean, continuous lines. And it all begins with design.
We spent the day with Dries Wajer, Managing Director and driving force behind the Wajer vision, and Ronald van Hulst, Director of Design and Development with an eye for timeless lines and a knack for seamless integrations. Together, they’ve shaped not only the silhouette of the new Wajer 55, but the design philosophy that defines every yacht that leaves our yard.
Design leads the way
At Wajer, everything starts with design. Not just in the sense of how a yacht looks, but how it flows, how it feels, and how every line plays its part in the whole. Design is never an afterthought; it leads every decision we make.
“For us, function follows design, which is a different approach,” says Dries. “I’d rather sit on something beautiful than be on the most spacious boat in the world. That’s the philosophy with the 55, as with all the other boats we build these days.”
“That’s why we say it’s styling over functionality,” Ronald adds. “Fluid lines are key. We aim for a minimalist look — where you don’t immediately see how much is going on under the surface.”
Much of the design effort is about restraint. Technology is hidden, transitions are seamless, and clutter is engineered out of view. “We call it less is more,” Ronald says. “Which, to be honest, is quite complex to build. But that’s what it takes to get to a boat with such beautiful lines.”
And precisely this way of thinking and working can be found in the new Wajer 55.
It all started with a facelift
What began as a facelift of the original Wajer 55 gradually turned into a complete redesign. “We ended up designing a nearly completely new boat. I think approximately 90% of the boat is new,” says Dries.
The aim was to refine what was already there — to enhance, not reinvent. But as the design process unfolded, one change led to another. New insights, evolving technologies, and an evolved family design reshaped almost every element of the yacht.
Ronald adds: “She’s existed now for seven years, and as a highly innovative brand, that means we have to come up with new ideas after a while. She deserves a real update. So we started.”
The making of
“When people step onboard the new Wajer 55 for the first time, I think they’ll be impressed by the level of detail throughout the boat.”
Dries Wajer
Details you don’t notice, until you do
That attention to detail reveals itself in every corner — from the redesigned dashboard to the carbon fiber frame of the windshield. The cockpit features a fresh layout, characterized by clean lines and high-end materials.
“We’ve integrated a lot of carbon fiber, especially in the helm area,” Dries explains. “And we’ve upgraded the upholstery — that’s something you feel immediately when you step on board.”
The teak decking has been completely reimagined, featuring a new pattern and refined drainage solutions, all carefully hidden from view. The retractable cockpit table glides up and down seamlessly, reinforcing the balance between clever engineering and understated luxury. “All the recesses and technical elements are tucked away,” says Ronald. “That clean look is only possible when you obsess over every millimetre.”
The result is a yacht that feels remarkably refined — not because it shows off, but because everything is considered. As Dries puts it: “We could talk for hours about what’s new, but this is something you have to experience yourself. If you care about details and design, the Wajer 55 is your boat.”
Shaped by vision
The Wajer 55 is more than a product of design. It reflects our broader vision. Where design is not just about form, but about intention. Where every curve is considered, every transition deliberate. Driven by a philosophy where innovation doesn’t shout, but whispers through seamless integration and thoughtful detail. Where every decision, from materials to mechanics, serves a clear purpose: to create an effortless, elevated experience on the water. It’s this long-term perspective that drives us, not chasing trends, but building timeless yachts that set the tone.