Vripack Doggersbank 20

Yona is a Dutch design by the over 50-year old renown design company Vripack - Dick Boon, one of the most reputed firm of naval architects in Holland with thousand of projects and constructions in his portfolio. Built in strong steel in Holland by the masters of the steel construction, Yona is a cute, nice little ship, that can sail for thousand of miles with a small amount of fuel, thanks to its very fuel-wise John Deere engine and its generous fuel tank. Mahogany interior decoration, for ship shape enthusiasts.

Mixing a vintage vessel with modern technologies, the refitted YONA (2011/2017) is the pride of her present owner and captain. They took their time over five years to transform the rather dilapidated Vripack into a comfortable, practical yacht with a personality and look all its own. And a John Deere PowerTech 13.5L engine powers this "white dove" (yona is Hebrew for dove) on her voyages around the Mediterranean and beyond.

An eye for potential

The search for YONA began when the present Owner  decided to switch from a fiberglass boat to a steel vessel and a hull that offered more space, speed and fuel efficiency. His captain, came across YONA in Genoa, Italy. "It was in poor condition, but we could see the potential."

Built in 1981 for leisure cruising, the 23-meter-long (75.5-foot-long) YONA was upgraded, retouched, and refitted over five years, which enabled the Owner  to make careful decisions on what to change. To keep YONAs original look and feel, they retained the flybridge, heavy glass windows and teak strips. "Other than that, we replaced or upgraded almost everything," comments the Captain.

When less is more

the original 134-kW (180-hp) engines have been replaced with a single John Deere PowerTech* 6135AFM85 Tier 3/Stage III A engine. The engine drives the propeller with a gear ratio of 4:1, as well as the PTO, power steering, hydraulic winch, lateral thrusters, and stabilizers.

The switch to a single engine with a single inverter, coupled with a single 1200-millimeter (47-inch) diameter propeller, has resulted in more comfort in the engine room. "There is more room, less oil fumes, and a much lower temperature" says Captain. *We are very pleased with the John Deere engine. The simplicity of design makes maintenance simple. When cruising, there is less noise, no noise when changing gears, and minimal exhaust fumes with a stern wind." - Captain, YONA 

Ready for new adventures

The comfort not only of guests but also the crew remains a priority for both owner and captain. YONA can comfortably accommodate 25 people for day trips or 10 people for overnight voyages. The main bridge offers a comfortable lounge, galley. and steering station, with an outside dining table that lets passengers enjoy every moment.

Below deck, the master bedroom is fitted with a bathroom in Brazilian blue marble and a large walk-in closet. The original, cramped crew quarters were replaced by a larger and more comfortable one. A table with teak benches can be

converted into a large sundeck.

"YONA feels like my own vessel," relates the Captain. "Having restored her from top to bottom, I know every nook and corner."

 "When you sail, you have to respect the sea; it can be calm one moment and volatile the next," concludes the Captain "But with the John Deere engine, l'm confident that we can handle weather and water safely and enjoyably."