LELIEVLET 725

The Lelievlet 725 Pneumatix is a distinctive steel vlet, constructed in 2008 by S.W. Grave and designed by Beenakker. This model is the first of its kind to be equipped for sailing, featuring the practical aspects of a flat-bottomed boat. The hull is made from 4 mm blasted steel and has a chined shape, enhancing stability and maneuverability on various waters. The dimensions of the vlet are 7.25 meters in length, 2.46 meters in width, and a draft of 40 cm. The clearance height is 8.15 meters, making the boat suitable for a variety of waters, including inland waters, lakes, ponds, and rivers.

The Pneumatix is equipped with a centerboard weighing 250 kg, giving the boat the characteristics of a keelboat. The sliding plates on either side are made of plastic, and the centerboard can be raised via a winch integrated into the mast base. This system facilitates drying out and makes transport easier than with a fixed keel. Steering is done via a tiller located outside.

The equipment includes:

• Fenders
• Mooring lines
• Bungee cords
• Boat hook
• Bucket
• Stock anchor
• Flagpole with a flag and pennant

The hull is coated with a two-layer primer system and finished with Sigma paint, as used in commercial shipping. No antifouling is applied, as the boat is always taken out of the water after use.

The rigging of the Pneumatix is designed and executed in-house in collaboration with sailmaker Heineke from Loosdrecht. The sails consist of:

• Mainsail (18.7 m²)
• Jib (7.5 m²)
• Genoa (3.7 m²)

These sails are made from Supercruise 5.4 oz Contender sailcloth in cream color. Running backstays are present, as is common with flat-bottomed boats.

The mast, boom, gaff, and bowsprit are made by Brasker Mastenbouw from The Hague. The dimensions of these components are as follows:

• Mast: 7.80 meters
• Boom: 3.70 meters
• Gaff: 3.10 meters
• Bowsprit/Genoa boom: 2.25 meters

These parts are made from FSC-certified Oregon pine. The electrical cable for the top light runs through the mast, with a R.O.S. white top light from De Haan.

The mast can be manually lowered using the bowsprit, which is stayed to both sides and firmly attached at the mast base on the foredeck. For added convenience, the bowsprit can be folded back, which is practical during transport and in harbors.

The interior of the vlet is designed with functionality in mind. The floor, hatches, and air boxes are made of aluminum tread plate. The aft section has space for an outboard motor (long shaft), which can be placed in a motor well and covered with an aluminum plate. A partition ensures that the fuel supply does not have to run over the aft deck.

There is ample storage space available in both the fore and aft sections. The air boxes, originally designed like those on the Lelievlet 560, have been adapted to provide extra buoyancy in case of water ingress.

The Pneumatix is designed for versatile use, including day trips, pleasure cruising, sporty sailing, vacations, and weekend trips. The boat offers a stable and controlled sailing experience, even in strong winds. Thanks to the thoughtful rigging and positioning of the sheets, it is quite possible to sail the vlet solo. The sheets run to the aft deck, and there are enough cleats to secure everything safely. The halyards lead to the workbench with two cleats on either side of the mast base.

The Pneumatix was last out of the water for maintenance in 2025. The bilge pump may need replacement. The Epifanes varnish contributes to the durability of the woodwork.

This Lelievlet 725 offers a combination of robustness, maneuverability, and sailing pleasure. Due to the smart construction, centerboard, and adjustable rigging, the boat is suitable for various conditions and types of sailors. With ample storage options and stable sailing properties, the Pneumatix is an interesting choice for enthusiasts of traditional ships with modern adaptations.

This special Lelievlet is not only suitable for private users but also very suitable for scouting groups looking for an alternative boat for their waterwork scouting group for senior members or staff. For these sea scouts, it is a familiar concept but with an extra dimension and challenge.