What’s On The New Wajer 55?
The Guide: Differences Between The Old & New Wajer 55
If your heart rate spiked slightly when the new Wajer 55 was announced, you’re one of the good ones. I took to the promotional materials to see what we had in store, hunting for whatever it was that defined this new era of Wajer’s true flagship. After scanning available resources though, I didn’t see much. Surely I was missing something; this day boat behemoth wouldn’t spend the time to completely relaunch its 55 without changing it enough to justify all the hoopla. So I dug deeper to give myself the clarity I needed in order to speak about it properly with you.
Key Differences at a Glance
If you need the quick download, here are the major differences you’ll get when you put in your new Wajer 55 order:
A real swim platform - Earlier versions had nothing but steps leading to the cockpit, now we’ve got a full swim platform like the 55S.
Levered extending swim platform - the swim platform also extends aft in a unique up/down motion I haven’t seen anywhere else
U-shaped cockpit benches - the old 55 had one large U-shaped seat, which transforms into two separate booth-style couches; arguably a more social environment.
Dual pop-up cockpit tables - whatever you think your favorite feature is, these will end up your favorite in the long run.
Horizontal mooring cleats - a new way to look at tying your lines. I’m not sure about it yet, but there’s one thing for sure. Its unique.
New helm chairs - All the Dutch builders (VQ, Stratos, Wajer) are defining themselves by their “in-house” helm chairs. Wajer doesn’t disappoint here.
Flush helm screens - beautifully integrated into an upgraded dashboard, with the hardware layout remains the same.
Overall design improvements - Usually this is an afterthought. With Wajer though, it has a true value.
Windshield frame - thicker and slightly reshaped
Engine vents - now following the freeboard’s natural waterfall into the swim platform
Interiors in wood vs. paint - this can vary based on build direction, but the promotions push light woods and warm tones.
Any Major Changes?
Dries Wajer is quoted saying the project started “as a face lift” and yet, they “ended up building a whole new boat”. Generally speaking, it feels like an intense facelift rather than a new boat, even though you’ll see after reading this story, it is, in fact, a brand new boat devoid of a major structural change. We are offered the same engine power (3 x D6-650 IPS engines, general cockpit layout, hull length, interior layout, hideaway fender system, and many features that have resided with the Wajer 55 for years. The major change here is quality. Although the project seems to be the same, Wajer has integrated all its new production styles into the 55 which had not be reworked for quite some time.
The new Wajer 55 utilizes the same new hull shape and style as Wajer’s most recent launches, the 44 and 77 (pictured above).
What You Might Miss: Quality Improvement & New Hull
Even without major structural changes, the Wajer 55 has taken a major step forward. Finishing quality looks to now match the 44 and 77, with a new teak design, upholstery styling, flush helm, improved helm seats, hidden hinges throughout the boat and a new windshield, to name a few. The biggest change is the hull itself. The new engine vents, hull shape and black fixtures have now been translated from the newer models into the 55, and it was a long time coming. It may not be straightforward to visually ID the differences, but if you put old 55 and new 55 alongside each other, they are most certainly there.
Technology Gap: A Big Leap
The new 55 includes the technological system seen first on the new Wajer 44. Everything is integrated into a unified digital platform that can be controlled via a smartphone app. Owners can monitor engine parameters, adjust climate control, and even operate lighting systems remotely. The boat essentially becomes an extension of your digital lifestyle rather than an escape from it.
Wireless charging stations are integrated throughout the new boat, streaming services are built into the entertainment system, and the climate control actually learns user preferences over time.
The Inflatable Fenders…
I hate to be the bearer of stale news, but those inflatable fenders they're promoting as part of the "new" Wajer 55 experience have been part of Wajer's DNA for almost a decade. I’m sure its fit with a more reliable air provisioning system, upgraded pumps, sensors, and the like. I just didn’t want you going to their website and thinking this was something only available on the 2026 Wajer 55.
The all-new Wajer 55 (c. 2025).
The past Wajer 55 (c. 2016-2024).
Comparing Cockpit Layouts
I’ll let you do most of the investigative work here, but I’ll tell you some of the smaller things I noticed:
The entry steps reduced from 4 to 3 (same transom design as the Wajer 55S)
We retain the same port+starboard bar layout
Helm stays on the starboard side
The helm chairs appear to be mounted separately and each have foot steps
The new extension to the swim platform is a major piece of engineering.
Horizontal pop out cleats could be a thing of the future.
Even though its the same layout as the predecessor, the wood, trim, design curves and updated fixtures make the interior feel brand new.
The Wajer 55S is the T-Top option of the 55 series, which includes a centermounted T-Top and walkaround bow.
What I Thought We Might See: A New T-Top Design
Although the changes warrant the model’s new launch, part of me thought Wajer would option a fixed T-Top with outboard mounts so we could have this layout with a fixed roof. I know that’s not technically what the Wajer 55 is (the 55 is an open concept with a closed bow), but the Wajer 55S (T-top version) mounts from the centerline requiring a different cockpit layout that does not match the centralization you see in the layouts above. Why is this a big deal? If you like the layout style above, but want a fixed T-top, you’re stuck with a walkaround (smaller cabin) and a cockpit with a table instead of all the comfortable seating you see above.
The Verdict: Much Needed, Much Appreciated
While we didn’t have a major WOW moment, the new Wajer 55 is objectively impressive. Wajer remains to be the pinnacle of build quality, and the new 55 meets the expectation. Changes in hull shape, transom design, new technology (swim platform, electronics), pop-up cockpit tables and things like hiding all hinges are quality improvements that real yachtsmen and luxury connoisseurs will salivate over.
The real question: Would you benefit more from buying a pre-owned Wajer 55 or building brand new? That depends on your style, budget, and whether you value all these subtle changes Wajer has integrated into the new 55.
To dive into those answer, and more, from an unbiased third party, shoot me an email at Reed@RNMarine.com.
About the Author
Reed Nicol is a licensed yacht broker with experience in all corners of the marine industry. He’s worked as an executive and sales director in yacht manufacturing and distribution, has structured commercial charter operations, and designed and executed notable refits. Read more about Reed’s marine journey, his love of helping 1st time boaters and his entrepreneurial spirit here.
Reed Nicol [Licensed FL Yacht Broker #11926]
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