Dutch Vintage Yacht Disguised as a Bargain Finally Finds New Owner

Still, Afaet had plenty of patience; as a vessel that's been around for more than three decades, this pedigree Dutch beauty is familiar with the inevitable tide changes throughout the years. As for the new owner, they could certainly consider themselves lucky for having grabbed a vintage gem for less than $2 million.

Some luxury yachts are lucky enough to be sold in record time, sometimes after just a couple of months on the market. That was not the case for Afaet, a 100-footer (30.47 meters) built in the Netherlands 33 years ago. It entered the market with its current brokerage company right at the end of 2022 and ended up changing hands this month, just in time for the summer season.

Sailing yachts, in general, target a smaller niche compared to motor yachts, even when they are equally luxurious and well-equipped. It takes a dedicated connoisseur to understand the value and uniqueness of a sailing boat of any kind, even more so if we're talking about a vintage model.

However, Afaet has been disguising itself as a bargain during its time on the market. Not only did it come from one of the most prestigious sailing yacht experts in the Netherlands, but it had also completed a comprehensive refit in 2019, guaranteeing it hit the market in excellent shape as a rebuilt vintage yacht. Even so, its value had dropped significantly by the time it finally found a new owner. Back in December 2022, it was asking for €3.25 million (nearly $3.5 million today), and one year and a half later, it sold for €1,85 million (just under $2 million).

As a successful charter yacht, Afaet meets the comfort and entertainment standards of typical contemporary pleasure craft. With a great volume for its size (118 GT), it can comfortably accommodate up to nine guests. The flexible configuration includes two doubles and two twins, one of which has a Pullman berth.

Its revamped amenities include a modern-style main salon for both dining and entertainment, a spacious aft helm wet bar with great panoramic views, a sun lounging area, and an easy-accessible swim platform. Performance-wise, a single Mercedes engine ensures smooth cruising at 10 knots (11.5 mph).

In terms of style, Afaet is truly striking. The vibrant, deep blue hull contrasts the freshly added teak decks with bright orange accents. Despite its age, this Dutch yacht looks fresh, contemporary, and ready for action. It came to life in 1991, at a time when the Jongert shipyard was thriving.

By that point, the Dutch yard had established itself as one of the most reputable builders of award-winning luxury yachts. The small company that Jan Jongert had opened back in 1953 with the money he had won as a professional speed skater became a world-famous sailing yacht builder. Currently, Jongert's global fleet has reached more than 300 launches.

The 1991 Afaet may not be one of the most famous Jongert yachts still in operation, but it's certainly a beautiful rebuild, a welcoming charter yacht, and a fine example of modern-classic Dutch craftsmanship, whose overall value goes beyond its most recent sale price.