If you're scanning the used boat market, you've probably come across the compromis 720 and wondered if it's actually worth the hype. It is one of those boats that seems to be everywhere in Dutch and German marinas, and honestly, for a design that's been around for decades, it holds up surprisingly well. It's not a racing machine by any stretch, but it offers a level of comfort and security that's hard to find in other seven-meter boats.
A bit of background on this Dutch classic
The compromis 720 was born out of the Zaadnoordijk Yachtbuilders yard in the Netherlands, a place known for building boats like tanks. They didn't really go for flashy, sleek lines that would look dated in five years; instead, they focused on making something solid. It's a Frans Maas design, and if you know anything about his work, you know he prioritized seaworthiness and practical layouts.
Most of these were built during the 1970s and 80s, which was really the golden era for sturdy fiberglass construction. Back then, they weren't quite as stingy with the resin as they are now, so the hulls on these things are thick. If you bump a dock a bit too hard, the dock is usually the one that's going to suffer, not the boat.
What is it like to actually step inside?
The first thing people usually notice when they hop on a compromis 720 is the headroom. Okay, look, if you're six-foot-four, you aren't going to be standing straight up, but for a 24-foot boat, it feels massive. Most boats this size feel like you're crawling into a cave, but the 720 has a clever "pop-top" or just a high coachroof design that makes it feel much airier.
The layout is pretty standard but functional. You've got a V-berth in the bow, which is actually big enough for two adults who don't mind being close. Then there is the main salon with two benches that can double as extra berths. The small galley usually has a two-burner stove and a tiny sink—just enough to make a decent coffee or boil some pasta after a day on the water. It's simple, but it works. There's no wasted space, and they've tucked storage cubbies into every imaginable corner.
How does the compromis 720 handle on the water?
If you're looking to win trophies and beat your neighbors in a regatta, the compromis 720 is probably not your first choice. It's a bit "tubby" and carries a fair amount of weight for its length. However, that weight is exactly what makes it such a great family cruiser. It's incredibly stable and predictable.
It handles a stiff breeze much better than some of the lighter, modern entry-level yachts. When the wind picks up and other 24-footers are leaning over and making everyone on board nervous, the compromis 720 just digs in and keeps going. It has a high freeboard, which means you stay relatively dry even when the water gets a bit choppy. It's a "forgiving" boat, which makes it a fantastic choice for people who are just getting into sailing or for couples who want a stress-free weekend on the lake.
Most of these boats come with a fixed keel, but there are versions with a shallower draft that are perfect for exploring the Frisian lakes or coastal shallows. It's not going to point as high into the wind as a performance boat, but you'll get where you're going in comfort.
The engine situation
One thing to keep an eye on when looking at a compromis 720 is the engine. Many of them were originally fitted with small inboard diesel engines, like the Bukh 10 or a Yanmar. These engines are absolute workhorses and can run forever if they've been looked after, but they are getting old.
If you find one that's been repowered recently, you're in luck. If it's still got the original 1978 engine, you'll want to check the service records. Some owners eventually gave up on the inboards and moved to an outboard on a transom bracket. While that makes maintenance a lot easier (and gives you way more storage space inside), the boat handles much better under power with an inboard, especially when you're trying to maneuver in a tight marina with a crosswind.
Maintenance and things to look out for
Because these boats are getting on in years, you have to be a bit realistic about what you're buying. The compromis 720 is generally very well-built, but it isn't immortal.
Osmosis is the big word that scares every boat buyer. While these hulls are thick, they aren't completely immune to blistering. It's always worth getting a survey or at least having a good look at the hull when it's out of the water. Small blisters aren't necessarily a dealbreaker on a boat of this age and price point, but it's something to know about so you can negotiate the price.
Another thing to check is the window seals. The aluminum frames on these older boats can start to leak over time, and there's nothing more annoying than a soggy cushion after a rainstorm. Replacing the seals is a bit of a weekend project, but it's a common task for any vintage yacht owner.
Then there is the deck. Walk around and feel for any "spongy" spots. The compromis 720 usually has a solid deck, but if water has managed to get into the core through a poorly bedded cleat or stanchion, it can cause issues. Luckily, these boats are relatively simple to fix if you're even a little bit handy with some tools and epoxy.
Why people love them
There is a certain charm to the compromis 720 that's hard to put into words. It feels like a "real" ship rather than a plastic toy. When you're down below with the teak wood around you and the sound of the water against the hull, it feels cozy and safe.
It's also an incredibly affordable way to get into boat ownership. You can pick one up for the price of a used car, and the running costs are quite low. Mooring fees for a seven-meter boat are usually the cheapest tier in most marinas, and because the boat is so simple, you can do most of the maintenance yourself.
Final thoughts on the compromis 720
At the end of the day, the compromis 720 is a sensible boat for sensible people. It's for the sailor who wants to spend their weekends exploring quiet inlets, teaching their kids how to steer, or just enjoying a cold drink in the cockpit while the sun goes down.
It doesn't try to be something it isn't. It's not a luxury yacht, and it's not a racing dinghy. It's just a solid, honest, Dutch-built cruiser that has stood the test of time. If you find one that's been well-loved, don't be surprised if it lasts you another thirty years. It's a classic for a reason, and in a world where everything seems to be made of thin plastic and designed to be replaced in five years, there is something really refreshing about a boat as sturdy as this one.