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• Boats for Sale
• Bluewater Yachts

New and used Bluewater Yachts for sale

• United Kingdom
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• Bluewater Yachts 41
• Bluewater Yachts 54 Sportfishing Coastal Cruiser
• Bluewater Yachts 56
• Bluewater Yachts 5800 Millennium
• Bluewater Yachts 60

Find your dream Bluewater Yachts on TheYachtMarket today. We have Bluewater Yachts brokers and sellers from around the world at great prices.

History of Bluewater Yachts

Bluewater Yachts was established in 1958, making it one of the most longstanding cruising yacht manufacturers in the United States. The company was founded by brothers Bill and Richard Valdes, who were both extraordinarily passionate about boating. Starting from humble beginnings in a run-down storage facility in Bellingham, Washington, the manufacturer rapidly grew a reputation for building luxurious, reliable and highly seaworthy vessels. Today, these first-class vessels are near-legends in the seafaring community, symbolic of the American dream and spirit.In 1989, the family-owned business was sold to Randy Cowley, an entrepreneurial boat aficionado. Under his stewardship, Bluewater Yachts experienced considerable growth and began locating its manufacturing operations in Fort Pierce, Florida. This marked a major transformation in the company's history, and the unique construction parameters and features of their boats began receiving international recognition. Moreover, the company expanded its range to craft larger vessels, winning them a broader market share in the motor yacht industry. Fast forward to the present day, Bluewater Yachts continues to be a leader in the boating industry and is headquartered in Mora, Minnesota. The company remains committed to its enduring vision, and the standards of craftsmanship and quality control are as high as they were half a century ago. With a reputation for groundbreaking design and superior customer service, Bluewater Yachts continues to deliver state-of-the-art vessels that set the bar for cruising yachts worldwide.

Which models do Bluewater Yachts produce?

Bluewater Yachts produce a range of boats including the Bluewater Yachts 56 and Bluewater Yachts 60 . For the full list of Bluewater Yachts models currently listed on TheYachtMarket.com, see the model list in the search options on this page.

What types of boats do Bluewater Yachts build?

Bluewater Yachts manufactures a range of different types of boats. The ones listed on TheYachtMarket include Cruiser , Centre cockpit , Aft cabin , Exploration vessel and Sloop .

How much does a boat from Bluewater Yachts cost?

Used boats from Bluewater Yachts on TheYachtMarket.com range in price from £99,500 GBP to £1,250,000 GBP with an average price of £578,000 GBP . A wide range of factors can affect the price of used boats from Bluewater Yachts, for example the model, age and condition.

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ZAO | 2017 Discovery Bluewater 50

Newport, nsw, au.

ZAO | Discovery Bluewater 50 50ft

Us $1,119,690.

DISCOVERY BLUEWATER 50

Discovery Bluewater 50 ZAO was launched in 2017 and is Hull number 3 from the Discovery factory. Now for sale exclusively with DBY Boat Sales.

A recognised multi award winning, multihull design has set new benchmarks for luxury blue water sailing.

Zao was commissioned for the founder of Bluewater Yachts and Sunsail, John Charnley and his wife Caroline.

She has been highly specified and optimised for around the world extended, short handed cruising.

She has now arrived into Sydney and is fully imported and tax paid.

This Bluewater 50 is the 3 cabin owners version with the starboard hull including a large owner stateroom with private bathroom, generous storage and office as well as all laundry facilities.

The guest hull also has a king size Island double bed aft plus forward queen cabin for the kids. With once again substantial storage.

The beautiful lounge and dining area will amaze you, her navigation station is right out of Star Wars. Amazing!

The galley has enormous bench space. It is appointed as well as any executive apartment with vast storage, refrigeration options and all the appliances needed to cater to family and guests.

Numerous windows and ports coupled with light timbers and coverings gives a bright, light and airy feel. Excellent cross ventilation along with central heating and air-conditioning makes this floating apartment super comfortable in all conditions.

This production design and build is of only the best materials with strength and easy performance in mind.

200 mile days were the target with no compromise on luxury.

Importantly she is set up for short handing in mind. This includes a self-tacking headsail and in mast furling mainsail all controlled by electric winches. Fantastic visibility to all corners from the helm station. In adverse weather you can choose to steer electronically from below or from outside..

This boat has been built for all types of weather you may encounter. She is a fast and comfortable platform for those who like being level as you sail over the horizon.

For those wanting the ultimate in blue water travel and the most beautiful multihull in the bay Zao is ready to meet you.

SPECIFICATIONS:

Designer : Bill Dixon Builder : Discovery Yachts Water (Potable) Capacity (l) : 750 Hull Construction Material : GRP Hull Type : Catamaran Deck Construction Material : GRP + some teak Country Origin : England Length (feet) : 50 feet Length (m) : 15.22 m Beam/Width (feet) : 25 feet Beam/Width (m) : 7.8 m Draft (m) : 1.4 m Draft (feet) : 4.6 feet Dry Weight (kgs) : 18000 kgs Number of Helms : 1 Displacement : 18000

Engine Notes : Engined serviced 2024 Number Of Engines : 2 Engine Standard : Yanmar Engine Hours : 700 PORT 1450 STARBORD Horse Power (hp) : 80 upgraded from57hp Drive Type : Saildrive Generator : Paguro 6000 900HRS Number of Batteries : 2 x 24v + 3 x 12v. Fuel Type : Diesel Number of Fuel Tanks : 3 Fuel Tank Capacity (L) : 1540 Propeller : 2 x Flex-O-fold (folding, 3 blades) Steering System : Jefa

Accommodation Notes : 3 cabin version. All timber in light ok Upholstery for lounge area and 2 Arm chairs in cream colour. Washing Machine and Dryer with tons of storage in all areas Number of Berths : 2 x Double + 1 x Twin Number of Showers : 3 Shower Type : hot and cold pressure Number of Toilets : 3 Toilet Type : Tecma electric, fresh or salt water. Air Conditioning : Full reverse cycle airconditioning, Erberspacher diesel heating throughout Number of TVs : 1 Holding Tank (L) : 2 tanks Galley Notes : Fully equipped galley Stove : 4 burner Refrigeration : 2 Deep Freezers keel cooled Extra Large Fridge Number of Freezers : 2 Number of Sinks : 1.5

Entertainment and Appliances Notes : Sony TV and DVD player with masthead TV antenna. Fusion system + 4 speakers in saloon and cockpit Anchor / Winch : Spade anchor. Lewmar Windlass. With controls at front and at helm Bilge Pump : 6 x electric, 2 x manual. Mast/Rigging : Selden hydraulic in mast Main. Sail Inventory : All Sails are as new (2023) HydraNet by Elvstrom. Vertical battened Main, Genoa, self tacking Jib Hydranet as new, Code 3 Asymmetric by Elvstrom in sock. Electrics : 24v Mastervolt with Lithium ion batteries. 2xMastervolt charger /Inverter 8x 100W solar panels with Mastervolt controller Mastervolt Touch 5 Monitor for electrical systems. Electronics Navigation : 2 x 9 inch Raymarine Axium Plotters 2x P70 autopilot controllers one at helm one at nav desk. Raymarine Quantum radar Dinghy : Caribe lt 10 + Yamaha 15hp 4 stroke. Second dinghy + 3.5hp outboard. Covers : Cockpit table Safety Gear : Liferaft, epirb x2, Osculati MOB system Ground Tackle : Spade 45kg + 75m x 10mm chain. Fortress Light Anchor Watermaker / De-Sal : Dessalator 60L/ hour. GPS : Raymarine RMK-10 remote for Axiom plotter at helm Garmin standalone. Raystar 125 Has Navigation Lights : Yes Radio : Raymarine VHF with AIS send and receive, Iridium Go Wifi range extender Number of Life Jackets : 6+

Remarks : Copper coat antifouling in Sept 2017. Extensive list of spare parts (incl. spare autopilot) + hand & electric tools. Includes - Inflatable double kayak, Hookah diving system, Sun protection mesh to cover the front seating area.

Vessel Name : ZAO

Specifications

• Length: 50ft
• Builder: Discovery Yachts
• Beam: 25' 0"
• Hull: Fiberglass
• Status: Active

View More Specs

• Designer: Bill Dixon

MEASUREMENTS

• Length Overall: 50 ft
• Beam Measure: 25' 0"

Accommodations

• Number of heads: 3

Disclaimer The Company offers the details of this vessel in good faith but cannot guarantee or warrant the accuracy of this information nor warrant the condition of the vessel. A buyer should instruct his agents, or his surveyors, to investigate such details as the buyer desires validated. This vessel is offered subject to prior sale, price change, or withdrawal without notice.

The Multihull Company is pleased to assist you in the purchase of this vessel though the vessel may be listed with another brokerage company.

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• Boats for Sale
• Bluewater Yachts

Bluewater Yachts for Sale

A Bluewater Yachts is designed to be self-sufficient in rough seas and long passages. These boats are built sturdy and are designed for long-term cruising, in all weathers. learn more about Bluewater Yachts

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214 New and Used Bluewater Yachts

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Bluewater Boat 56

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Our single purpose at BLUEWATER YACHTS is to buiuld great offshore yachts for people who want to experience adventurein a well thought out and well built yacht ...

* Price displayed is based on today's currency conversion rate of the listed sales price.

ABOUT BLUEWATER YACHTS

A Bluewater Yachts is designed to be self-sufficient in rough seas and long passages. These boats are built sturdy and are designed for long-term cruising, in all weathers.

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28′ Gaff Cutter

• Designer: Traditional
• Builder: Chris Rees
• Location: Devon
• Length on deck: 28'
• Draft: 4'6"

Enquire about 28′ Gaff Cutter

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Full specification

Wooden Ships Comments on this 28′ Gaff Cutter

Built by well known Plymouth boatbuilder Chris Rees in 1992 to his own design, an exceptionally robust construction for blue water sailing.

Rees built Pete Goss’ boat Spirit of Mystery which he sailed to Australia. The owner has a newspaper article in which Goss states meeting Chris Reece “was a match made in heaven”.

Rees sailed this boat down to NW Africa via the Azores and later across the Atlantic, up to Nova Scotia and Greenland before returning to UK .The owner has photos of her dated 1997 in Greenland against a background of rocky mountains and icebergs.

Bought by the present owner in 2006 having retired from a life of rebuilding and tuning pianos for Steinway.  With only one owner between him and the builder, and after several years living on board the owner started on a prolonged refit but now time and health have caught up with him and it is time to pass her on to new energy and enthusiasm.

Now close to completion, a new owner will have the benefit of a proven, blue water yacht which with even amateur knowledge and some investment of time and money will be an exceptional cruising yacht at a very sensible budget.

All structural hull work appears to be completed. The greater amount of work left to complete is the rig and she needs a suit of sails.

This is not a yacht in the classic manner of elegant counters, scrubbed teak decks and acres of perfect varnish but an excellent example of a practical, functional and very capable yacht without being excessively large.  At this price Sarah Louise is a good buy to a new owner with ambitions for blue water sailing on a budget.

Length on Deck 28’

Beam                                    8’

Draft                                      4’6”

Construction

• Every aspect in the construction of this yacht is designed for strength without excessive weight.
• 12mm marine ply with double chine and a thick grp sheathing for additional strength as part of the original construction makes for an immensely robust hull.
• Varnished pine rubbing band round the deck edge.
• Long keel with an external iron ballast keel and generous freeboard, all designed to give a stiff, dry boat.
• The ballast keel is formed by a 10mm thick steel box filled with concrete, through bolted in pairs to the hull.
• Internally, the hull is further strengthened by bulkheads at aft and forward ends of the saloon cabin, bonded to the hull and with galvanised steel strap floors in way.
• 3’’ x 2’’ laminated frames at 18’’ centres with 2’’ ply floors across the centre-line, double stringers round the chines, long gusset ply bracing supporting the frames across the chines built in to the joinery and double ply gussets joining the frames to the deck beams.
• Sheathed ply deck and varnish ply coamings to the coach-roof all new in current refit.
• Coach-roof extends from the cock-pit up to the mast with varnished ply coamings set with 2 fixed oval chrome bezel port lights each side, a butterfly sky-light and full length grab rails.
• A 9’’ varnished pine toe-rail all round set 1’’ off the deck to allow any water immediate escape.  Clear side decks allow safe movement around the deck.
• The cock-pit well is completely sealed to be self-draining through vents each side above WL. with open cave lockers under the side decks.
• Small triangular hatch right aft under the tiller to a sealed watertight compartment, potentially to take a gas bottle within regulations.
• Varnished mahogany hatch on the clear fore deck.
• Substantial twin bitts carry the heel of the bowsprit which passes through the galvanised stemhead gammon iron fitted with twin chain rollers.
• Massive rudder stock with relatively small blade hung on heavy galvanised steel gudgeons and pintles. Tiller steering.
• Gaff cutter rig on solid varnished pole mast stepped through the deck onto the keel.
• The Greenland photographs show a tall, well balanced rig with topsail on a yard reaching high above the masthead for light airs sailing, cutter-headed and a relatively short and therefore more manageable boom. Properly set up this will be a comfortable rig for a single hander.
• Single stainless steel shroud each side to external s/s chain plates as per original plan.
• S/s chain plates further aft to take the running back-stays, originally on block and tackles.
• Inner fore stay to the stem-head gammon iron.
• Masthead fore stay to the end of the bowsprit.
• Fixed length bob-stay to stainless steel stem plate.
• Slab reefing boom with twin straps round the mast.
• Low level pin rail each side of the mast takes the halyards etc.
• Varnished pine pole mast, boom with fittings, gaff and bowsprit.
• The rig is still work in progress with further standing and running rigging to be fitted.
• 2 cylinder Beta 14hp diesel engine sited under the companionway steps, flexibly mounted on heavy oak beds to centre-line 3 blade prop.
• This engine was formerly installed in a yacht in the yard, with very low hours. Starts and runs smoothly with no smoke.
• Excellent access to the engine with the steps removed, all perfectly clean.
• Throttle and gear Bowden cables in situ await control lever.
• Vêtus plastic fuel tank.
• Battery under entrance steps.

Accommodation

• 4 berths.  5’7”head-room  under the beams in the saloon.
• Full width V berth under the fore deck, end access by a wide opening in the bulkhead.
• Saloon cabin with port and starboard settee berths.
• Recently made upholstery on 4” foam cushions to all berths.
• After port corner with tiled cooker recess. Cooker fuel type yet to be chosen and installed. This recess will readily accept the ubiquitous 2 burner grill and oven gas cooker or any of the liquid fuel cookers.
• Round stainless steel sink set in varnished mahogany joinery unit giving a trotter box over the end of the berth.  Manual, vertical action fresh water pump.  No water tank yet fitted, planned as flexible tanks under the settees.  Hand pump to sink evacuation.
• 4 deep lockers over under the side deck.
• Stbd side chart desk takes half size Admiralty chart.
• Very practical, deep bins outboard of both settee berths.
• Deep recess/cupboards aft each side of the entrance steps for stowage and hanging.
• Varnished pine sole boards, varnished mahogany trim to the joinery.
• Plough anchor and chain in a galvanised steel box under the forward berth with galvanised hawse pipe to deck.
• Box of rig fittings etc.
• Spars and rigging

Wooden Ships classic yachts brokers have an extensive database of boats for sale. With a wide range of sailboats , classic yachts , motor yachts and small classic boats , Wooden Ships has one of the largest selections of traditional wooden boats and yachts for sale in the UK.

Disclaimer:

These particulars have been prepared in good faith from information provided by the Vendors and are intended as a guide, Wooden Ships cannot guarantee or warrant the accuracy of this information nor warrant the condition of the vessel. The Purchaser should instruct his agent or surveyor to validate all details as necessary and satisfy himself with the condition of the vessel and its equipment.

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How to Sell a Yacht

September 5th 2022

How to sell a classic yacht – 10 things to expect from your broker.   Selling a classic yacht can be daunting, but working with a broker can simp…

• Yachting World
• Digital Edition

43 of the best bluewater sailboat designs of all time

• January 5, 2022

How do you choose the right yacht for you? We highlight the very best bluewater sailboat designs for every type of cruising

Which yacht is the best for bluewater boating? This question generates even more debate among sailors than questions about what’s the coolest yacht , or the best for racing. Whereas racing designs are measured against each other, cruising sailors get very limited opportunities to experience different yachts in real oceangoing conditions, so what is the best bluewater sailboat?

Here, we bring you our top choices from decades of designs and launches. Over the years, the Yachting World team has sailed these boats, tested them or judged them for European Yacht of the Year awards, and we have sifted through the many to curate a selection that we believe should be on your wishlist.

Making the right choice may come down to how you foresee your yacht being used after it has crossed an ocean or completed a passage: will you be living at anchor or cruising along the coast? If so, your guiding requirements will be space, cabin size, ease of launching a tender and anchoring closer to shore, and whether it can comfortably accommodate non-expert-sailor guests.

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All of these considerations have generated the inexorable rise of the bluewater catamaran – monohulls can’t easily compete on these points. We have a full separate feature on the best bluewater multihulls of all time and here we mostly focus on monohulls. The only exceptions to that rule are two multihulls which made it into our best bluewater sailboats of 2022 list.

As so much of making the right choice is selecting the right boat for the venture in mind, we have separated out our edit into categories: best for comfort; for families; for performance; and for expedition or high latitudes sailing .

Best bluewater sailboats of 2022

The new flagship Allures 51.9, for example, is a no-nonsense adventure cruising design built and finished to a high standard. It retains Allures’ niche of using aluminium hulls with glassfibre decks and superstructures, which, the yard maintains, gives the optimum combination of least maintenance and less weight higher up. Priorities for this design were a full beam aft cabin and a spacious, long cockpit. Both are excellent, with the latter, at 6m long, offering formidable social, sailing and aft deck zones.

It likes some breeze to come to life on the wheel, but I appreciate that it’s designed to take up to five tonnes payload. And I like the ease with which you can change gears using the furling headsails and the positioning of the powerful Andersen winches inboard. The arch is standard and comes with a textile sprayhood or hard bimini.

Below decks you’ll find abundant headroom and natural light, a deep U-shape galley and cavernous stowage. For those who like the layout of the Amel 50 but would prefer aluminium or shoal draught, look no further.

Allures 51.9 price: €766,000

The Ovni 370 is another cunning new aluminum centreboard offering, a true deck saloon cruiser for two. The designers say the biggest challenge was to create a Category A ocean going yacht at this size with a lifting keel, hence the hull had to be very stable.

Enjoyable to helm, it has a practical, deep cockpit behind a large sprayhood, which can link to the bimini on the arch. Many of its most appealing features lie in the bright, light, contemporary, clever, voluminous interior, which has good stowage and tankage allocation. There’s also a practical navstation, a large workroom and a vast separate shower. I particularly like the convertible saloom, which can double as a large secure daybed or pilot berth.

Potentially the least expensive Category A lift keel boat available, the Ovni will get you dreaming of remote places again.

Ovni 370 price: €282,080

There’s no shortage of spirit in the Windelo 50. We gave this a sustainability award after it’s founders spent two years researching environmentally-friendly composite materials, developing an eco-composite of basalt fibre and recycled PET foam so it could build boats that halve the environmental impact of standard glassfibre yachts.

The Windelo 50 is an intriguing package – from the styling, modular interior and novel layout to the solar field on the roof and the standard electric propulsion, it is completely fresh.

Windelo 50 price: €795,000

Best bluewater sailboat of 2022 – Outremer 55

I would argue that this is the most successful new production yacht on the market. Well over 50 have already sold (an equipped model typically costs €1.6m) – and I can understand why. After all, were money no object, I had this design earmarked as the new yacht I would most likely choose for a world trip.

Indeed 55 number one Sanya, was fully equipped for a family’s world cruise, and left during our stay for the Grand Large Odyssey tour. Whereas we sailed Magic Kili, which was tricked up with performance options, including foam-cored deckheads and supports, carbon crossbeam and bulkheads, and synthetic rigging.

At rest, these are enticing space ships. Taking one out to sea is another matter though. These are speed machines with the size, scale and loads to be rightly weary of. Last month Nikki Henderson wrote a feature for us about how to manage a new breed of performance cruising cats just like this and how she coaches new owners. I could not think of wiser money spent for those who do not have ample multihull sailing experience.

Under sail, the most fun was obviously reserved for the reaching leg under asymmetric, where we clocked between 11-16 knots in 15-16 knots wind. But it was the stability and of those sustained low teen speeds which really hit home  – passagemaking where you really cover miles.

Key features include the swing helms, which give you views from outboard, over the coachroof or from a protected position in the cockpit through the coachroof windows, and the vast island in the galley, which is key to an open plan main living area. It helps provide cavernous stowage and acts as the heart of the entertaining space as it would in a modern home. As Danish judge Morten Brandt-Rasmussen comments: “Apart from being the TGV of ocean passages the boat offers the most spacious, open and best integration of the cockpit and salon areas in the market.”

Outremer has done a top job in packing in the creature comforts, stowage space and payload capacity, while keeping it light enough to eat miles. Although a lot to absorb and handle, the 55 offers a formidable blend of speed and luxury cruising.

Outremer 55 price: €1.35m

Best bluewater sailboats for comfort

This is the successor to the legendary Super Maramu, a ketch design that for several decades defined easy downwind handling and fostered a cult following for the French yard. Nearly a decade old, the Amel 55 is the bridge between those world-girdling stalwarts and Amel’s more recent and totally re-imagined sloop designs, the Amel 50 and 60.

The 55 boasts all the serious features Amel aficionados loved and valued: a skeg-hung rudder, solidly built hull, watertight bulkheads, solid guardrails and rampart bulwarks. And, most noticeable, the solid doghouse in which the helmsman sits in perfect shelter at the wheel.

This is a design to live on comfortably for long periods and the list of standard features just goes on and on: passarelle; proper sea berths with lee cloths; electric furling main and genoa; and a multitude of practical items that go right down to a dishwasher and crockery.

There’s no getting around the fact these designs do look rather dated now, and through the development of easier sail handling systems the ketch rig has fallen out of fashion, but the Amel is nothing short of a phenomenon, and if you’ve never even peeked on board one, you really have missed a treat.

Photo: Sander van der Borch

Contest 50CS

A centre cockpit cruiser with true longevity, the Contest 50CS was launched by Conyplex back in 2003 and is still being built by the family-owned Dutch company, now in updated and restyled form.

With a fully balanced rudder, large wheel and modern underwater sections, the Contest 50CS is a surprisingly good performer for a boat that has a dry weight of 17.5 tonnes. Many were fitted with in-mast furling, which clearly curtails that performance, but even without, this boat is set up for a small crew.

Electric winches and mainsheet traveller are all easy to reach from the helm. On our test of the Contest 50CS, we saw for ourselves how two people can gybe downwind under spinnaker without undue drama. Upwind, a 105% genoa is so easy to tack it flatters even the weediest crewmember.

Down below, the finish level of the joinery work is up there among the best and the interior is full of clever touches, again updated and modernised since the early models. Never the cheapest bluewater sailing yacht around, the Contest 50CS has remained in demand as a brokerage buy. She is a reassuringly sure-footed, easily handled, very well built yacht that for all those reasons has stood the test of time.

This is a yacht that would be well capable of helping you extend your cruising grounds, almost without realising it.

Read more about the Contest 50CS and the new Contest 49CS

Photo: Rick Tomlinson

Hallberg-Rassy 48 Mk II

For many, the Swedish Hallberg-Rassy yard makes the quintessential bluewater cruiser for couples. With their distinctive blue cove line, these designs are famous for their seakindly behaviour, solid-as-a-rock build and beautifully finished, traditional interiors.

To some eyes, Hallberg-Rassys aren’t quite cool enough, but it’s been company owner Magnus Rassy’s confidence in the formula and belief in incremental ‘step-by-step’ evolution that has been such an exceptional guarantor of reliable quality, reputation and resale value.

The centre cockpit Hallberg-Rassy 48 epitomises the concept of comfort at sea and, like all the Frers-designed Hallberg-Rassys since the 1990s, is surprisingly fleet upwind as well as steady downwind. The 48 is perfectly able to be handled by a couple (as we found a few years back in the Pacific), and could with no great effort crack out 200-mile days.

The Hallberg-Rassy 48 was launched nearly a decade ago, but the Mk II from 2014 is our pick, updated with a more modern profile, larger windows and hull portlights that flood the saloon and aft cabin with light. With a large chart table, secure linear galley, heaps of stowage and space for bluewater extras such as machinery and gear, this yacht pretty much ticks all the boxes.

Discovery 55

First launched in 2000, the Discovery 55 has stood the test of time. Designed by Ron Holland, it hit a sweet spot in size that appealed to couples and families with world girdling plans.

Elegantly styled and well balanced, the 55 is also a practical design, with a deep and secure cockpit, comfortable seating, a self-tacking jib, dedicated stowage for the liferaft , a decent sugar scoop transom that’s useful for swimming or dinghy access, and very comfortable accommodation below. In short, it is a design that has been well thought out by those who’ve been there, got the bruises, stubbed their toes and vowed to change things in the future if they ever got the chance.

Throughout the accommodation there are plenty of examples of good detailing, from the proliferation of handholds and grabrails, to deep sinks in the galley offering immediate stowage when under way and the stand up/sit down showers. Stowage is good, too, with plenty of sensibly sized lockers in easily accessible positions.

The Discovery 55 has practical ideas and nifty details aplenty. She’s not, and never was, a breakthrough in modern luxury cruising but she is pretty, comfortable to sail and live on, and well mannered.

Photo: Latitudes Picture Library

You can’t get much more Cornish than a Rustler. The hulls of this Stephen Jones design are hand-moulded and fitted out in Falmouth – and few are more ruggedly built than this traditional, up-for-anything offshore cruiser.

She boasts an encapsulated lead keel, eliminating keel bolts and creating a sump for generous fuel and water tankage, while a chunky skeg protects the rudder. She is designed for good directional stability and load carrying ability. These are all features that lend this yacht confidence as it shoulders aside the rough stuff.

Most of those built have had a cutter rig, a flexible arrangement that makes sense for long passages in all sea and weather conditions. Down below, the galley and saloon berths are comfortable and sensible for living in port and at sea, with joinery that Rustler’s builders are rightly proud of.

As modern yachts have got wider, higher and fatter, the Rustler 42 is an exception. This is an exceptionally well-mannered seagoing yacht in the traditional vein, with elegant lines and pleasing overhangs, yet also surprisingly powerful. And although now over 20 years old, timeless looks and qualities mean this design makes her look ever more like a perennial, a modern classic.

The definitive crossover size, the point at which a yacht can be handled by a couple but is just large enough to have a professional skipper and be chartered, sits at around the 60ft mark. At 58ft 8in, the Oyster 575 fitted perfectly into this growing market when launched in 2010. It went on to be one of the most popular models from the yard, and is only now being superseded by the newer Rob Humphreys-designed Oyster 565 (just launched this spring).

Built in various configurations with either a deep keel, shoal draught keel or centreboard with twin rudders, owners could trade off better performance against easy access to shallower coves and anchorages. The deep-bodied hull, also by Rob Humphreys, is known for its easy motion at sea.

Some of the Oyster 575’s best features include its hallmark coachroof windows style and centre cockpit – almost everyone will know at first glance this is an Oyster – and superb interior finish. If she has a flaw, it is arguably the high cockpit, but the flip side is the galley headroom and passageway berth to the large aft stateroom.

This design also has a host of practical features for long-distance cruising, such as high guardrails, dedicated liferaft stowage, a vast lazarette for swallowing sails, tender, fenders etc, and a penthouse engine room.

Privilege Serie 5

A true luxury catamaran which, fully fitted out, will top €1m, this deserves to be seen alongside the likes of the Oyster 575, Gunfleet 58 and Hallberg-Rassy 55. It boasts a large cockpit and living area, and a light and spacious saloon with an emphasis on indoor-outdoor living, masses of refrigeration and a big galley.

Standout features are finish quality and solid build in a yacht designed to take a high payload, a secure walkaround deck and all-round views from the helm station. The new Privilege 510 that will replace this launches in February 2020.

Gunfleet 43

It was with this Tony Castro design that Richard Matthews, founder of Oyster Yachts, launched a brand new rival brand in 2012, the smallest of a range stretching to the flagship Gunfleet 74. The combination of short overhangs and centre cockpit at this size do make the Gunfleet 43 look modern if a little boxy, but time and subsequent design trends have been kind to her lines, and the build quality is excellent. The saloon, galley and aft cabin space is exceptional on a yacht of this size.

Photo: David Harding

Conceived as a belt-and-braces cruiser, the Kraken 50 launched last year. Its unique points lie underwater in the guise of a full skeg-hung rudder and so-called ‘Zero Keel’, an encapsulated long keel with lead ballast.

Kraken Yachts is the brainchild of British businessman and highly experienced cruiser Dick Beaumont, who is adamant that safety should be foremost in cruising yacht design and build. “There is no such thing as ‘one yacht for all purposes’… You cannot have the best of all worlds, whatever the salesman tells you,” he says.

Read our full review of the Kraken 50 .

Wauquiez Centurion 57

Few yachts can claim to be both an exciting Med-style design and a serious and practical northern European offshore cruiser, but the Wauquiez Centurion 57 tries to blend both. She slightly misses if you judge solely by either criterion, but is pretty and practical enough to suit her purpose.

A very pleasant, well-considered yacht, she is impressively built and finished with a warm and comfortable interior. More versatile than radical, she could be used for sailing across the Atlantic in comfort and raced with equal enjoyment at Antigua Sailing Week .

A modern classic if ever there was one. A medium to heavy displacement yacht, stiff and easily capable of standing up to her canvas. Pretty, traditional lines and layout below.

Photo: Voyage of Swell

Well-proven US legacy design dating back to the mid-1960s that once conquered the Transpac Race . Still admired as pretty, with slight spoon bow and overhanging transom.

Capable medium displacement cruiser, ideal size and good accommodation for couples or family cruising, and much less costly than similar luxury brands.

Photo: Peter Szamer

Swedish-built aft cockpit cruiser, smaller than many here, but a well-built and finished, super-durable pocket ocean cruiser.

Tartan 3700

Designed as a performance cruiser there are nimbler alternatives now, but this is still an extremely pretty yacht.

Broker ’ s choice

Discovery 55 Brizo

This yacht has already circumnavigated the globe and is ‘prepared for her next adventure,’ says broker Berthon. Price: £535,000 + VAT

Oyster 575 Ayesha

‘Stunning, and perfectly equipped for bluewater cruising,’ says broker Ancasta International. Price: £845,000 (tax not paid)

Oyster 575 Pearls of Nautilus

Nearly new and with a high spec, this Oyster Brokerage yacht features American white oak joinery and white leather upholstery and has a shoal draught keel. Price: $1.49m

Best bluewater yachts for performance

The Frers-designed Swan 54 may not be the newest hull shape but heralded Swan’s latest generation of displacement bluewater cruisers when launched four years ago. With raked stem, deep V hull form, lower freeboard and slight curve to the topsides she has a more timeless aesthetic than many modern slab-sided high volume yachts, and with that a seakindly motion in waves. If you plan to cover many miles to weather, this is probably the yacht you want to be on.

Photo: Carlo Borlenghi

Besides Swan’s superlative build quality, the 54 brings many true bluewater features, including a dedicated sail locker. There’s also a cockpit locker that functions as a utility cabin, with potential to hold your generator and washing machine, or be a workshop space.

The sloping transom opens out to reveal a 2.5m bathing platform, and although the cabins are not huge there is copious stowage space. Down below the top-notch oak joinery is well thought through with deep fiddles, and there is a substantial nav station. But the Swan 54 wins for handling above all, with well laid-out sail controls that can be easily managed between a couple, while offering real sailing enjoyment to the helmsman.

Photo: Graham Snook

The Performance Cruiser winner at the 2019 European Yacht of the Year awards, the Arcona 435 is all about the sailing experience. She has genuine potential as a cruiser-racer, but her strengths are as an enjoyable cruiser rather than a full-blown liveaboard bluewater boat.

Build quality is excellent, there is the option of a carbon hull and deck, and elegant lines and a plumb bow give the Arcona 435 good looks as well as excellent performance in light airs. Besides slick sail handling systems, there are well thought-out features for cruising, such as ample built-in rope bins and an optional semi-closed stern with stowage and swim platform.

Outremer 51

If you want the space and stability of a cat but still prioritise sailing performance, Outremer has built a reputation on building catamarans with true bluewater characteristics that have cruised the planet for the past 30 years.

Lighter and slimmer-hulled than most cruising cats, the Outremer 51 is all about sailing at faster speeds, more easily. The lower volume hulls and higher bridgedeck make for a better motion in waves, while owners report that being able to maintain a decent pace even under reduced canvas makes for stress-free passages. Deep daggerboards also give good upwind performance.

With bucket seats and tiller steering options, the Outremer 51 rewards sailors who want to spend time steering, while they’re famously well set up for handling with one person on deck. The compromise comes with the interior space – even with a relatively minimalist style, there is less cabin space and stowage volume than on the bulkier cats, but the Outremer 51 still packs in plenty of practical features.

The Xc45 was the first cruising yacht X-Yachts ever built, and designed to give the same X-Yachts sailing experience for sailors who’d spent years racing 30/40-footer X- and IMX designs, but in a cruising package.

Launched over 10 years ago, the Xc45 has been revisited a few times to increase the stowage and modernise some of the styling, but the key features remain the same, including substantial tanks set low for a low centre of gravity, and X-Yachts’ trademark steel keel grid structure. She has fairly traditional styling and layout, matched with solid build quality.

A soft bilge and V-shaped hull gives a kindly motion in waves, and the cockpit is secure, if narrow by modern standards.

A three or four cabin catamaran that’s fleet of foot with high bridgedeck clearance for comfortable motion at sea. With tall daggerboards and carbon construction in some high load areas, Catana cats are light and quick to accelerate.

Sweden Yachts 45

An established bluewater design that also features in plenty of offshore races. Some examples are specced with carbon rig and retractable bowsprits. All have a self-tacking jib for ease. Expect sweeping areas of teak above decks and a traditionally wooded interior with hanging wet locker.

A vintage performer, first launched in 1981, the 51 was the first Frers-designed Swan and marked a new era of iconic cruiser-racers. Some 36 of the Swan 51 were built, many still actively racing and cruising nearly 40 years on. Classic lines and a split cockpit make this a boat for helming, not sunbathing.

Photo: Julien Girardot / EYOTY

The JPK 45 comes from a French racing stable, combining race-winning design heritage with cruising amenities. What you see is what you get – there are no superfluous headliners or floorboards, but there are plenty of ocean sailing details, like inboard winches for safe trimming. The JPK 45 also has a brilliantly designed cockpit with an optional doghouse creating all-weather shelter, twin wheels and superb clutch and rope bin arrangement.

Photo: Andreas Lindlahr

For sailors who don’t mind exchanging a few creature comforts for downwind planing performance, the Pogo 50 offers double-digit surfing speeds for exhilarating tradewind sailing. There’s an open transom, tiller steering and no backstay or runners. The Pogo 50 also has a swing keel, to nose into shallow anchorages.

Seawind 1600

Seawinds are relatively unknown in Europe, but these bluewater cats are very popular in Australia. As would be expected from a Reichel-Pugh design, this 52-footer combines striking good looks and high performance, with fine entry bows and comparatively low freeboard. Rudders are foam cored lifting designs in cassettes, which offer straightforward access in case of repairs, while daggerboards are housed under the deck.

Best bluewater sailboats for families

It’s unsurprising that, for many families, it’s a catamaran that meets their requirements best of increased space – both living space and separate cabins for privacy-seeking teenagers, additional crew or visiting family – as well as stable and predictable handling.

Photo: Nicholas Claris

Undoubtedly one of the biggest success stories has been the Lagoon 450, which, together with boats like the Fountaine Pajot 44, helped drive up the popularity of catamaran cruising by making it affordable and accessible. They have sold in huge numbers – over 1,000 Lagoon 450s have been built since its launch in 2010.

The VPLP-designed 450 was originally launched with a flybridge with a near central helming position and upper level lounging areas (450F). The later ‘sport top’ option (450S) offered a starboard helm station and lower boom (and hence lower centre of gravity for reduced pitching). The 450S also gained a hull chine to create additional volume above the waterline. The Lagoon features forward lounging and aft cockpit areas for additional outdoor living space.

Besides being a big hit among charter operators, Lagoons have proven themselves over thousands of bluewater miles – there were seven Lagoon 450s in last year’s ARC alone. In what remains a competitive sector of the market, Lagoon has recently launched a new 46, with a larger self-tacking jib and mast moved aft, and more lounging areas.

Photo: Gilles Martin-Raget

Fountaine Pajot Helia 44

The FP Helia 44 is lighter, lower volume, and has a lower freeboard than the Lagoon, weighing in at 10.8 tonnes unloaded (compared to 15 for the 450). The helm station is on a mezzanine level two steps up from the bridgedeck, with a bench seat behind. A later ‘Evolution’ version was designed for liveaboard cruisers, featuring beefed up dinghy davits and an improved saloon space.

Available in three or four cabin layouts, the Helia 44 was also popular with charter owners as well as families. The new 45 promises additional volume, and an optional hydraulically lowered ‘beach club’ swim platform.

Photo: Arnaud De Buyzer / graphikup.com

The French RM 1370 might be less well known than the big brand names, but offers something a little bit different for anyone who wants a relatively voluminous cruising yacht. Designed by Marc Lombard, and beautifully built from plywood/epoxy, the RM is stiff and responsive, and sails superbly.

The RM yachts have a more individual look – in part down to the painted finish, which encourages many owners to personalise their yachts, but also thanks to their distinctive lines with reverse sheer and dreadnought bow. The cockpit is well laid out with the primary winches inboard for a secure trimming position. The interior is light, airy and modern, although the open transom won’t appeal to everyone.

For those wanting a monohull, the Hanse 575 hits a similar sweet spot to the popular multis, maximising accommodation for a realistic price, yet with responsive performance.

The Hanse offers a vast amount of living space thanks to the ‘loft design’ concept of having all the living areas on a single level, which gives a real feeling of spaciousness with no raised saloon or steps to accommodation. The trade-off for such lofty head height is a substantial freeboard – it towers above the pontoon, while, below, a stepladder is provided to reach some hatches.

Galley options include drawer fridge-freezers, microwave and coffee machine, and the full size nav station can double up as an office or study space.

But while the Hanse 575 is a seriously large boat, its popularity is also down to the fact that it is genuinely able to be handled by a couple. It was innovative in its deck layout: with a self-tacking jib and mainsheet winches immediately to hand next to the helm, one person could both steer and trim.

Direct steering gives a feeling of control and some tangible sailing fun, while the waterline length makes for rapid passage times. In 2016 the German yard launched the newer Hanse 588 model, having already sold 175 of the 575s in just four years.

Photo: Bertel Kolthof

Jeanneau 54

Jeanneau leads the way among production builders for versatile all-rounder yachts that balance sail performance and handling, ergonomics, liveaboard functionality and good looks. The Jeanneau 54 , part of the range designed by Philippe Briand with interior by Andrew Winch, melds the best of the larger and smaller models and is available in a vast array of layout options from two cabins/two heads right up to five cabins and three heads.

We’ve tested the Jeanneau 54 in a gale and very light winds, and it acquitted itself handsomely in both extremes. The primary and mainsheet winches are to hand next to the wheel, and the cockpit is spacious, protected and child-friendly. An electric folding swim and sun deck makes for quick fun in the water.

Nautitech Open 46

This was the first Nautitech catamaran to be built under the ownership of Bavaria, designed with an open-plan bridgedeck and cockpit for free-flowing living space. But with good pace for eating up bluewater miles, and aft twin helms rather than a flybridge, the Nautitech Open 46 also appeals to monohull sailors who prefer a more direct sailing experience.

Made by Robertson and Caine, who produce catamarans under a dual identity as both Leopard and the Sunsail/Moorings charter cats, the Leopard 45 is set to be another big seller. Reflecting its charter DNA, the Leopard 45 is voluminous, with stepped hulls for reduced waterline, and a separate forward cockpit.

Built in South Africa, they are robustly tested off the Cape and constructed ruggedly enough to handle heavy weather sailing as well as the demands of chartering.

Photo: Olivier Blanchet

If space is king then three hulls might be even better than two. The Neel 51 is rare as a cruising trimaran with enough space for proper liveaboard sailing. The galley and saloon are in the large central hull, together with an owner’s cabin on one level for a unique sensation of living above the water. Guest or family cabins lie in the outer hulls for privacy and there is a cavernous full height engine room under the cabin sole.

Performance is notably higher than an equivalent cruising cat, particularly in light winds, with a single rudder giving a truly direct feel in the helm, although manoeuvring a 50ft trimaran may daunt many sailors.

Beneteau Oceanis 46.1

A brilliant new model from Beneteau, this Finot Conq design has a modern stepped hull, which offers exhilarating and confidence-inspiring handling in big breezes, and slippery performance in lighter winds.

The Beneteau Oceanis 46.1 was the standout performer at this year’s European Yacht of the Year awards, and, in replacing the popular Oceanis 45, looks set to be another bestseller. Interior space is well used with a double island berth in the forepeak. An additional inboard unit creates a secure galley area, but tank capacity is moderate for long periods aboard.

Beneteau Oceanis 473

A popular model that offers beam and height in a functional layout, although, as with many boats of this age (she was launched in 2002), the mainsheet is not within reach of the helmsman.

Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 49

The Philippe Briand-designed Sun Odyssey range has a solid reputation as family production cruisers. Like the 473, the Sun Odyssey 49 was popular for charter so there are plenty of four-cabin models on the market.

Nautitech 441

The hull design dates back to 1995, but was relaunched in 2012. Though the saloon interior has dated, the 441 has solid practical features, such as a rainwater run-off collection gutter around the coachroof.

Atlantic 42

Chris White-designed cats feature a pilothouse and forward waist-high working cockpit with helm position, as well as an inside wheel at the nav station. The Atlantic 42 offers limited accommodation by modern cat standards but a very different sailing experience.

Best bluewater sailing yachts for expeditions

Bestevaer 56.

All of the yachts in our ‘expedition’ category are aluminium-hulled designs suitable for high latitude sailing, and all are exceptional yachts. But the Bestevaer 56 is a spectacular amount of boat to take on a true adventure. Each Bestevaer is a near-custom build with plenty of bespoke options for owners to customise the layout and where they fall on the scale of rugged off-grid adventurer to 4×4-style luxury fit out.

The Bestevaer range began when renowned naval architect Gerard Dijkstra chose to design his own personal yacht for liveaboard adventure cruising, a 53-footer. The concept drew plenty of interest from bluewater sailors wanting to make longer expeditions and Bestevaers are now available in a range of sizes, with the 56-footer proving a popular mid-range length.

The well-known Bestevaer 56 Tranquilo  (pictured above) has a deep, secure cockpit, voluminous tanks (700lt water and over 1,100lt fuel) and a lifting keel plus water ballast, with classically styled teak clad decks and pilot house. Other owners have opted for functional bare aluminium hull and deck, some choose a doghouse and others a pilothouse.

Photo: Jean-Marie Liot

The Boreal 52 also offers Land Rover-esque practicality, with utilitarian bare aluminium hulls and a distinctive double-level doghouse/coachroof arrangement for added protection in all weathers. The cockpit is clean and uncluttered, thanks to the mainsheet position on top of the doghouse, although for visibility in close manoeuvring the helmsman will want to step up onto the aft deck.

Twin daggerboards, a lifting centreboard and long skeg on which she can settle make this a true go-anywhere expedition yacht. The metres of chain required for adventurous anchoring is stowed in a special locker by the mast to keep the weight central. Down below has been thought through with equally practical touches, including plenty of bracing points and lighting that switches on to red light first to protect your night vision.

Photo: Morris Adant / Garcia Yachts

Garcia Exploration 45

The Garcia Exploration 45 comes with real experience behind her – she was created in association with Jimmy Cornell, based on his many hundreds of thousands of miles of bluewater cruising, to go anywhere from high latitudes to the tropics.

Arguably less of a looker than the Bestevaer, the Garcia Exploration 45 features a rounded aluminium hull, centreboard with deep skeg and twin daggerboards. The considerable anchor chain weight has again been brought aft, this time via a special conduit to a watertight locker in front of the centreboard.

This is a yacht designed to be lived on for extended periods with ample storage, and panoramic portlights to give a near 360° view of whichever extraordinary landscape you are exploring. Safety features include a watertight companionway door to keep extreme weather out and through-hull fittings placed above the waterline. When former Vendée Globe skipper Pete Goss went cruising , this was the boat he chose to do it in.

Photo: svnaima.com

A truly well-proven expedition design, some 1,500 Ovnis have been built and many sailed to some of the most far-flung corners of the world. (Jimmy Cornell sailed his Aventura some 30,000 miles, including two Drake Passage crossings, one in 50 knots of wind).

Futuna Exploration 54

Another aluminium design with a swinging centreboard and a solid enclosed pilothouse with protected cockpit area. There’s a chunky bowsprit and substantial transom arch to house all manner of electronics and power generation.

Previous boats have been spec’d for North West Passage crossings with additional heating and engine power, although there’s a carbon rig option for those that want a touch of the black stuff. The tanks are capacious, with 1,000lt capability for both fresh water and fuel.

If you enjoyed this….

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BLUEWATER SAILING YACHTS QUALITY CRUISING SAILBOATS FROM THE WORLD’S TOP BUILDERS.

BLUEWATER CRUISING SAILBOATS FOR SALE

2015 Hylas 56

Stellina may be the best couple’s cruising yacht available on the brokerage market today. She features a custom, two-cabin layout making her ideal for long distance cruising. Maintained to the highest standards, Stellina shows as a much younger yacht.

2009 Outbound 46

Callisto is wonderful example of the Outbound 46, which has been described as the perfect cruising boat. Not only is she built with serious sailing in mind, she is also easy to handle for a short-handed crew. A fun boat to sail whether it is around the bay or around the world. Callisto is a single owner boat has spent the last 14 winters in the Caribbean lying in Grenada at the conclusion of season. The owners have had quite the adventures and cherished memories during their ownership, and are ready to pass on Callisto so she can continue to provide these experiences for the next owner!  Callisto is currently lying in Edgewater, MD and available for immediate showings. 

2017 Passport 545 CC

Passport Yachts have long been recognized as “the standard of excellence” for bluewater cruising sailboats. Continued refinements under the direction of Thom Wagner, state-of-the-art hull layup, selection of some of the best marine hardware and systems available, and listening to their buyers, have all contributed to the Passport Vista Series’ tremendous success. The Passport 545 CC was awarded Cruising World’s prestigious “Boat of the Year” award in 2012. “ASA”, a 2017 Passport 545 CC is a prime example of why the Vista Series has remained so popular over the years. The ease of sailing her with the solent rig and in-mast furling has made her the “go-to choice” for sailing couples. With her large and roomy interior, there is adequate room for family or friends. You will be challenged to find the quality of the interior woodwork and finishes (found aboard the Passport 545) in much more expensive yachts.

2019 Outbound 56

Specifying and building Outbound 56 BAREFOOT was a labour of love for her owners. They wanted to build the best quality and most practical cruising yacht that they could sail easily, as a couple, and that would carry them and their young children in safety and comfort, even to remote areas. The yacht is a very highly specified and much improved version of the well-known Hylas 56. Even after delivery the owner continued to improve and upgrade the yacht – including changing out the main engine. No cost has been spared to produce this wonderful yacht. With her hydraulic in-mast furling main, hydraulic furler to both of the headstays, electric furling gennaker, electric sheet winches - all controlled at the cockpit – she may be sailed single-handed (and has been). The interior provides a delightful aft “stateroom”, a double cabin forward and a versatile third cabin that may be used as a single or double and serves as a stowage area and workbench.

1988 Sparkman & Stephens Custom 50

The Stephen Custom 50 was conceived by the renowned yacht designers Sparkman & Stephens who have designed and built some of the worlds leading cruising and racing sailboats. They did not miss the mark with this 1988 classy cruiser. This stable yacht is designed and optimized for long term cruising and is a true blue-water sailboat. A solid glass hull and full skeg make Brizo a smooth ride even in rough seaways and give assurance. Built at the Queen Long yard in Taiwan, a precursor to the fabled Hylas yachts, her build quality is unquestioned. The quality craftsmanship and fine joinery is apparent throughout the interior of this well-conceived design. A deck saloon and a three-cabin layout make this yacht perfect for cruising couples or families. If you are seeking a boat that can carry you far and wide with speed, safety, and comfort, Brizo is a must see.

All Bluewater Cruising Sailboats For Sale

• Little Harbor
• Robert Perry
• Sparkman & Stephens

2020 Outbound 56

2009 Outbound 44

1999 Passport Royal Passport 43

1993 Robert Perry Custom 63

1989 Little Harbor 54

Featured bluewater sailboat brands.

HYLAS COLLECTION

The premier collection of pre-owned Hylas bluewater sailing yachts that are currently available on the market. Collection Yacht brokers have sold more Hylas sailboats in the last decade than all other yacht brokerages combined.

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OYSTER COLLECTION

Oyster is one of the world’s top bluewater cruising sailboat brands. Built in the UK, Oysters are finely crafted seaworthy yachts that capable of ocean passages and circumnavigation, with their most popular models being in the 50-70ft range. The Oyster Collection features current Oyster yachts for sale as well as videos, reviews, and guides.

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PASSPORT COLLECTION

Built to meet the style and taste of the American sailing market, Passport yachts are admired worldwide for their hand-crafted quality, proven passage making abilities, and well-thought out designs. While the award winning Passport 545 is perhaps the most popular model, the entire line is built to the same standards and respected for its sailing performance, fine interior woodwork, and beautiful detailing inside and out.

View Passport Collection

Bluewater Cruising Sailboat Reviews, Guides, & News

Passport 545 Aft Cockpit Walkthrough Video

Passport yachts gives us a closer look at the interior and exterior of the Passport 545 Aft Cockpit sailboat.

Promo Video of the All New Oyster 565

A great promo video that Oyster has released highlighting features of the all new Oyster 565.

Oyster 725 Review

The 725 was built, as many Oysters are, to sail anywhere her owners wish to go. She is the first boat in the range to have exceptional and dedicated crew quarters.

Oyster 625 Review

The Oyster 625 is a powerful sailboat that can be handled by an experienced couple but also has ample space for a captain and crew if that is the desired cruising mode.

OYSTER YACHT SALES EXPERTS

Collection Yachts, based in the yachting capital of the world, Fort Lauderdale, is proud to represent buyers and sellers of Oyster Yachts. Traveling with clients across the globe to find the best Oyster Yacht has resulted in long lasting relationships and many sales. Like Oyster, Collection Yachts provides top quality service for as long as a client owns their Oyster.

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The perfect bluewater sailboat

By Elaine Bunting

What makes the ideal yacht for ocean adventures and long distance voyaging elaine bunting investigates..

If your dream is to sail across oceans or even around the world, what is the right yacht? What type and size should you look for? And what equipment is going to add most to your safety and enjoyment of life on board?

The answers to these questions will define your experience and are going to vary depending on your budget, how long you intend to be away, and with whom you’ll be sailing. There are however some common denominators you’ll need to think about to sail safely and comfortably.

First, the fundamentals of a true bluewater yacht: its design and sea-keeping attributes. A good bluewater sailboat is capable of making long passages in comfort and will look after you in whatever conditions you encounter.

Oyster Yachts are renowned for their adventuring credentials; the yachts are well-found, luxurious and solidly built. About 95 have already circumnavigated the world and with another 25 participating in the Oyster World Rally 2022-23 soon Oysters will have logged over 100 successful circumnavigations. Starting with the fundamentals, they have hulls with integrated keels, are certified for strength and safety, and have keel-stepped masts. They are designed with self-sufficiency in mind and have generous accommodation and tankage for long ranges. Equipment is over-specified, from rig and steering gear to winches and windlasses, and there is easy access to systems and machinery.

Discover the perfect yacht for ocean adventures, highlighting key design features and insights from experienced sailors. Learn how to embark on an incredible long-distance voyage.

• Learn about the essential features and characteristics of a bluewater cruiser.
• Explore the design elements that contribute to comfort and safety during extended passages.
• Find out why Oyster Yachts are renowned for their adventuring credentials.
• Understand the significance of size when choosing a yacht for long-term cruising.
• Get insights into the equipment, systems, and communication tools crucial for a successful voyage.
• Learn about the importance of after-sales support and preparation for long-distance cruising.
• Uncover the wisdom and encouragement from experienced bluewater sailors to embrace the adventure of a lifetime.

QUICK LINKS

More information

The evolution of every design in the last 24 years is linked by a common thread: Humphreys Yacht Design. Renowned yacht designer Rob Humphreys is at the helm, working closely for the last 15 years with son Tom, a Fellow of the Royal Institute of Naval Architects.

The primary job of a bluewater yacht, says Humphreys, is to be capable of being sailed by a shorthanded crew. It has to be easily handled, comfortable at sea on long passages yet capable of a reliable turn of speed that will make the miles slip by without great effort.

“The motion of the boat is important. Performance is important, too, but less so – comfort is more telling,” Humphreys explains. He favours a hull shape with “shallower rocker forward and a deeper mid-section to distribute the volume, which creates that softer ride.”

Moderate displacement yachts such as Oysters are born passagemakers.  The hull form is not only capable of producing reliable daily mileages on passage in comfort, without stressing crew or yacht, but can accommodate generous fuel and water tanks and bluewater critical items such as generator, large battery bank, washing machine and air conditioning. It also provides excellent internal stowage for stores and spares and ample locker space externally in sail locker and lazarettes.

“Control and manageability and the steering qualities are also important so there is less burden on autopilot systems. And the other side of it is that a yacht should have good load carrying abilities for stores and spares.”

The latest generation hull shapes, with plumb stems and beam carried right aft, not only look purposeful, they create a larger interior and can sail faster and more efficiently. A long waterline and greater hull volume means more accommodation in the bow area, but most particularly aft. That wider shape also benefits a yacht in pure sailing terms.

“Increased power aft helps with free stability,” Humphreys explains. “Stability is generated through hull form and is not so much dependent on the mechanical stability of the lead [on the keel]. So, in that respect, these boats are a little bit more powerful, a benefit all round, but particularly when sailing upwind and close reaching.”

Wide hull shapes are also suited to twin rudders, which in turn, says Humphreys, “gives fingertip control and makes a boat easy to steer.”

These evolutions can be traced back to race yacht design, as can the plumb bow. “That is another aspect of hull form that has translated well,” says Humphreys. “More vertical bows give you more waterline length, and that is always working for you. It gives you a better chance of sustained daily mileages, of reliable speed rather than exceptional speed.”

These latest designs also have increased freeboard, which means it is possible for yachts to have a flush foredeck for aesthetic and practical reasons, yet also really good headroom below. For Oyster Yachts it has allowed large vertical ‘seascape’ windows that let in light and connect cabins with the world and the views outside.

Other features that distinguish the true bluewater cruiser are a safe, protected and well-sheltered cockpit and helm stations, with sail controls led back; a good galley that is easy to use and secure at sea; a practical and comfortable navigation area; and clear and uncluttered sidedecks and foredeck.

The centre cockpit design that is a hallmark of Oyster Yachts is comfortable for long-distance cruise and “provides protection while sailing and entertaining in port, and is great in terms of overall visibility,” affirms owner Stephen Gratton. Stephen and his wife, Debbie, sailed around the world in their Oyster 53, Amelie, then returned through the Panama Canal to Canada and Alaska, sailed back across the Pacific to French Polynesia and are currently in Seattle.

“We have been in some extreme conditions, but even when things go wrong we know that Amelie can look after us. The comfort is great. Even in a gale, when you go below it all goes quiet. You feel like you are on a well-made boat and we like the solidity of design and thoughtfulness.”

Other attributes that mark out a capable, go-anywhere bluewater boat include a galley that is safe, secure and easy to work in. The linear galley that is a feature of Oyster yachts is designed to be a seamanlike and usable space at sea, with abundant fridge and freezer capacity, and plentiful space for food stowage.

Similarly, a secure navigation area and chart table that is comfortable, safe and inviting to use at sea is also essential, as is a powerful, reliable propulsion system, large battery banks and multiple means of power generation. 

Shade and ventilation are very important for sailing in the Tropics. Oyster Yachts is the only builder to offer front saloon windows that open out to allow cooling air to circulate through the boat, and one of the few builders that still fits dorade vents for forced ventilation.

Every element is solidly built and made to last for hundreds of thousands of miles of sailing in all conditions. Above all, it the solidity of the design and strength of build that owners point to when describing what they most cherish about their yachts. 

“One of the things that is very important is to be able to trust your boat under all circumstances and be well prepared for bad weather,” comments Leo Nagtegaal, another round-the-world skipper, and owner of Oyster 625 Bubbles. “Your boat is actually one of the safest places to be.

What size yacht is best?

While small yachts can, and do, cross oceans, a moderate displacement, higher volume yacht has all the advantages for long-term cruising. A sweet spot for ocean cruisers lies between 45ft and 65ft. Yachts in this range can accommodate the comforts, stores and spares a crew of family and friends needs whilst also making quick passage times.

Larger yachts, fitted with hydraulic furling and electric winches, can still be sailed by a short-handed family crew, though beyond 65ft loads increase with size, maintenance demands grow too and it may require the help of professional crew.

When Leo Nagtegaal sold his business, he and his wife, Karin, bought an Oyster 56, Duchess. In 2013 they set off to realise Leo’s lifelong dream of sailing around the world.

The Nagtegaals loved the sailing life and people so much that, in 2014, they traded up to an Oyster 625. “We thought that as we’d be pretty much living aboard nine months of the year for the next five, six or seven years, we’d like just a little more space,” says Leo.

In his opinion, 45ft is the minimum size for long-term ocean voyaging: “Size is very personal,” he admits. “I have friends who went around Cape Horn in a 33ft wooden boat and did well, so they will disagree when I say that a bluewater yacht should be at least 45ft. It really depends on how the boat is equipped.”

Paul and Trish Ducker also sailed on the Oyster World Rally 2013-14 as far as New Zealand. They have ordered a new Oyster 565 and hope to take part in the 2024-25 rally. Their cruising is mainly done double-handed. “We don’t want anyone else living on board; we like the privacy and freedom,” Paul explains.

“For us, at the time about 54ft is as large as we wanted to go. Up to 60ft would be fine, but as you get older you are not so fit and strong and it tends to affect things like taking down sails and jumping around the boat coming into a marina.” On their new Oyster, they will have a bow and stern thruster to make close quarters manoeuvring easier, and headsails they can pole out for stress-free downwind passages.

Stephen and Debbie Gratton have owned six different yachts. Before buying their Oyster 53 Amelie in 2008, they owned a Contessa 32, which Stephen raced across the Atlantic in the single-handed OSTAR race. To enjoy cruising as a way of life, however, they knew they needed to change from their pretty but cramped design to a much bigger, more solidly built, heavier displacement yacht.

“Originally we thought anything over 40ft was OK for ocean passages and we thought about having a boat built for sailing round the world,” says Stephen. “But it was not going to be able to provide many creature comforts for my wife and me and we started realising that you get more comfort when a boat is over 50ft,” says Stephen.

Gratton emphasises the benefits of a bigger yacht size beyond merely space inside. “You have better ability to take the waves — the hull shape and distance between waves can all make a difference. Hull design is so important.”

Stephen Haines took delivery of his new Oyster 565, Panthalassa, in 2019. He has been planning a circumnavigation “for many, many years”. Unusually, Panthalassa represents a downsizing for Haines. He previously owned a 40m Huisman which he sailed with his young family all over the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, Bahamas and US east coast. On the Huisman, Haines had had professional crew, but for his round the world voyage he wants to skipper and run the boat himself. “Having crew on board changes the dynamics and it is not the same,” he says. “When you are employing people it takes quite a long time to make your boat a home as there a lot of people around. It can be hard work.”

Haines says the 565 is “the perfect size for me” and says: “I wouldn’t swap with a bigger boat. In terms of build quality an Oyster is right up there, strong with a good reputation. My Huisman was a one-off, but the more 565s they build, the happier I am. It is easier to get spares and it adds to the residual value.

“I bought the boat to go across oceans and for me it is about the motion of the boat. Panthalassa sits on the water like a much, much bigger boat and in a big sea I have been impressed with her seakeeping.”

what equipment do you need?

From sails to power management and electronics, a multitude of choices shape the ideal bluewater cruiser. The sail inventory, for example, is part of personalising your boat and will depend on how many crew you have and how you like to sail.

The majority of ocean crossings on a tradewinds circumnavigation are on reaching and running angles. A suitable downwind set up can be as simple as the mainsail and a poled-out genoa, or it could be twin headsails set to run day after day. Or you might want to add more power and speed with an asymmetric spinnaker on a furler, or a specialised spinnaker such as the Parasailor.

Ideally, you would have multiple off-wind sail options (including for regattas if you plan to race) and upwind sails that can easily be reefed. In-mast furling, automated systems and electric winches take all the hard work out of reducing sail.

The latest Oysters and other modern cruising designs feature bowsprits that allow an additional light wind Code Sail to be set on a furler so you can keep sailing instead of turning on the engine. But whatever you add to the inventory, the important thing is to have sails that you want to use and don’t find daunting.

High on the list of essentials is a robust windlass that can handle as large an anchor as possible, ground tackle of up to 100 or 120m for anchoring in deep bays, and a second kedge anchor. The CQR type is ever popular, though many Oyster owners opt for a Rocna or upgrade to the stainless steel Ultra anchor, says Durham.

Power management is one the biggest and most critical issues boat owners face. “Questions about power come up all the time. Power management is key, and trying to use as little as possible,” says Mark Durham. Most Oyster owners opt for a generator, but are increasingly looking at diversifying power sources with solar and hydro power also charging high capacity lithium ion batteries.

“It is about trying to use as many different methods of power generation as you can, for example wind generators, hydrogenerators or solar panels,” says Durham. Alternative energy sources not only reduce emissions and the consumption of fossil fuels, they also allow longer periods of silent running and extend generator service intervals.

“We are doing a fantastic project at the moment on Oyster 725 hull number 1, putting solar panels on the hard top so [the owner] will not have to use his generator as often,” says Mark Durham. “He has got 12 lithium-ion batteries giving 2400Ah. Previously he was using his generator in the morning and evening to charge batteries and make water, now all systems can be run off batteries that are charged by the solar panels, and the generator is run rarely.

Now, with 24v watermakers we can run them off the batteries, which can be charged by solar power.”

“This is a really interesting part of the planning and many owners are enjoying the process of using less diesel.”

Power upgrades are always a worthwhile element of a refit. Stephen Gratton says that fitting a new 5kW inverter and 400 A/h of lithium ion batteries to his Oyster 53 is “the biggest change we have made in the 13 years we have had our boat. I would say that the ability to have big gaps between charging and the silence when cooking is one of the best things.”

Leo Nagtegaal also upgraded the inverter on his Oyster 625, Bubbles, to a 5kW unit and has solar panels on his hard-top bimini. “That provides two-thirds of my power needs. I can run more equipment, for example the washing machine and other appliances, so that was a big improvement,” he says.

A watermaker is a prized item on bluewater cruisers of all sizes, giving crews independence from shore. A reliable, well-specc'ed autopilot that has a fast speed of response downwind, with back-up spares, is essential. Bow thrusters and even stern thrusters are increasingly popular, especially for couples who sail two-up frequently.

Communications is critical for almost all long-term cruisers. Satellite comms and on board Wi-Fi networks not only make it simple to keep in touch with home, friends and work but to get detailed real-time weather data and forecasts, and even repair advice and downloads. SSB radio, dated technology though it undoubtedly is, also remains popular with crews who live aboard for lengthy periods – this is still a good way to connect with the cruising community and the camaraderie and help it offers.

“We use Iridium for weather data and emergencies, but for us SSB is something we enjoy using,” says Stephen Gratton. “We came up from French Polynesia to the Pacific North West this year and were part of a [radio] net and we had our last discussion the night before we arrived in the Juan De Fuca Strait, 4,000 miles away. It really felt like people there were thinking about you.”

For getting ashore, and as a transport workhorse when at anchor, everyone needs a sturdy tender and reliable outboard that can easily be brought aboard and stowed away. Solid floor inflatables or small RIBs are the best choice, stored securely on davits, or mounted on the foredeck.

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Making your yacht a home from home

On an extended voyage, your yacht is your home, a place to entertain guests and enjoy visits from friends and family. Comforts are important and, unsurprisingly, all the cruisers we spoke to advised having as many of them as possible.

Paul and Trish Ducker have lived aboard their Oyster 54, Babe, almost full-time since she was launched in 2011. For their new boat, an Oyster 565 currently in build, they are going for “all the mod cons”.

While accepting that high equipment levels may bring increased demands in terms of maintenance, Paul says: “It is our home, so we want everything, from air-con to a water maker to a washing machine."

“I would say,” he adds, “everything generally on Oysters is useful even if is not essential.” At the top of the Duckers’ priority list are a large capacity fridge and freezer; sufficient power to run a washing machine; air conditioning from time to time; an electric cooker; and entertainment equipment.

Stephen and Debbie Gratton also mention an electric hob and cooker. "It really works for us. Food is a very important part of our enjoyment at sea and entertainment with friends. The change to lithium batteries was a game changer for us as we can use any of these appliances with just the inverter.”

Andy Armshaw is one of Oyster Yacht’s most experienced project managers, helping owners make the right choices for comfortable cruising. “Good galley set-ups are important,” he agrees. “Most people now go for a Quooker boiling water tap so there is no need to put a kettle on or a pan on the stove. More people are definitely looking at fitting an induction hob and there is a move away from gas, not only from the safety point of view but getting a refill in different places.”

Owners want “really well-appointed heads, and generally want what they have at home, such as fixed head rain showers. They also expect their boat to be comfortable, and we offer a choice of soft furnishings, fabrics and timbers. Also sprung mattresses, because one of the most valuable things on board is rest.”

Good lee cloths are needed for sea berths and are worth fitting in the saloon as well as in cabins. “Sometimes people in forward cabins will migrate aft at sea,” observes Armshaw.

A bimini that can be kept up on passage will keep crew shaded from the sun. A canvas sunshade for covering the cockpit and perhaps also the foredeck will extend your outdoor living area in the Tropics. The biminis and sprayhoods fitted to Oyster yachts are also extremely solid and to be kept up permanently while sailing.

When he was spec’ing his new Oyster 565 Panthalassa, Stephen Haines thought: “If I am going to be living on it and sailing round the world, quite honestly give me everything. I want the icemaker, nice mattresses, a washing machine, a tumble dryer. I got almost everything you can get. It’s nice to have everything – why not?

Like everyone we spoke to, Haines admits that maintenance comes with the territory. What makes the biggest difference to an owner is having excellent after sales support and advice at the end of a phone line.

“I have learned more about that in the last two years than in the rest of my life and now I’m living on the boat it has become daily life. But you only have to get Oyster Yachts on the phone, and they can talk me through it. I reckon it took nearly a full season to really get to this stage and really know my boat inside out and back to front.

“Now, I am very comfortable. I know my boat can cope with any conditions. If she could speak, I think Panthalassa would say ‘There’s nothing to worry about’.”

Get ready to go

How long does it take to prepare to cast the lines off and go cruising? Typically, owners getting ready to go off for an Atlantic crossing or further, take a season or two to prepare, though I have met many people who have successfully done it much quicker. A longer runway, however, allows you to spec your boat, trial it thoroughly, and get your life organised for leaving.

Some owners advocate a year of home waters cruising before going further afield. For example, Leo Nagtegaal had his Oyster 56 Duchess shipped to Singapore, where he was working, and sailed from there for several years until taking full retirement and joining the Oyster World Rally 2013-14. A period of shorter-range cruising allows the whole crew to gain the knowledge, training and skills needed, including essential maintenance know-how and medical and sea survival training – and to understand your boat inside out.

But however, you plan to break free, what really helps is a deadline: a date that you are going to set off, with a scene you can visualise to keep you motivated as you work through the preparations and demands of shore life. Most preparations are really just logistics, and you’re probably already pretty good at that. The bigger obstacle is often mustering the courage to leave.

Preparing a bluewater yacht and all that is needed to set free and go is a complex project, but you’ll have plenty of good help and advice along the way. I have yet to talk to anyone who has regretted it. When I ask bluewater sailors for their best advice, it usually boils down to a simple prescription: just go. Life is too short to put off your dreams.

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Winner of European Yacht of the Year 2023. She is a new breed of luxury 50 foot yacht, offering effortless shorthanded sailing capability.

A magnificent, award-winning sub 60 foot sailing yacht, offering luxurious living space and outstanding shorthanded sailing capability.

A beautifully proportioned 60 foot, luxury liveaboard bluewater cruiser, offering effortless shorthanded sailing capability.

A superb sub 70 foot ocean sailboat offering versatile luxury living space and impeccable sailing performance.

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• Boats for sale

---REDUCED---

AURORA - £44,950 (Was £49,950).

56ft Cruiser Stern Narrowboat.

Hull by Liverpool Boats, fit out by Mr Andy Picket in 2004. 10:6:6:4 Steel spec.

Isuzu 4-cylinder diesel engine.

12v & 240v electrical system.

Galvanic Isolator. Mastervolt 2k Inverter.

Approx 320 litre water tank with 300 litre diesel tank.

Grant diesel combi boiler providing hot water.

Recent replacement of all batteries 4 leisure + 1 starter.

Solid fuel stove.

Composting toilet.

Layout from Stern to Bow:

Generous cruiser deck with steps leading down into galley style kitchen.

Galley with attractive tongue and groove style cream cupboards with oak effect worktops. Mosaic tiled splash-backs. Good range of base units with ample storage.

4 burner gas hob. Microwave and 12v free standing fridge freezer. Stainless steel sink with mixer tap.

Generous Saloon area with free standing sofa bed. Side hatch. Wall mounted TV. Modern solid fuel stove in attractive corner, tiled surround.

Bedroom with fixed double bed with storage under. Wardrobe with full length hanging.

Bathroom to bow with full size shower cubicle, wash basin in vanity unit and composting toilet.

Boat Safety Certificate to May 2025.

Nicely presented, would make great first boat.

Viewing advised!

Currently stored out of the water, ready for inspection.

Please see Apollo Duck ref 771423 for more pictures.  

Boat details are believed to be accurate but cannot be guaranteed. They are compiled from information supplied by the owner and, possibly, an 'in water' inspection. They are not intended and do not form part of any current or future contract. Prospective purchasers are advised to have an independent survey to satisfy themselves as to the condition of the vessel and the information contained in these details. Prospective purchasers are also advised to check on ownership of the vessel and on any outstanding finance.

-UNDER OFFER-

DRAGONFLY - £65,000

55ft x 10ft Cruiser Stern Widebeam Narrowboat.

Built by Knottingley Fabrications in 2003.

Isuzu 55 diesel engine.

12v & 240v Electrical Systems.

Sterling 1800W Inverter/Charger.

Galvanic Isolator.

Multi fuel stove in saloon with back boiler, heating 4 radiators.

Stainless steel water tank.

Pump out toilet.

Layout from stern to bow:

Rear deck with pram hood. 

Bedroom with free standing double bed, wardrobe, drawers and ottoman.

Bathroom with full size corner bath, shower over. Pump out toilet toilet and wash basin.

Generous galley with modern white, gloss units.  Good range of storage cupboards and drawers. Samsung, eye level double oven. Four burner gas hob. Microwave, Free standing fridge freezer, washing machine, dishwasher.

Breakfast bar with two stools.

Open plan Saloon with solid fuel stove in tiled corner surround and TV point. 

Boat Safety Certificate to April 2028.

Last blacked September 2022.

Viewing highly recommended.

Available with existing garden mooring, if required.

For more pictures please see Apollo Duck ref 775654.

MARRMITE - £79,995 (Was £87,500)

55ft Narrowbeam Dutch Barge.

Built by Le Skerne Boatbuilders Ltd in 2008.

Beta 43hp diesel engine (2300 hours).

Vetus hydraulic Bowthruster.

380 litre Fuel tank.

Stainless steel water tank (700 litres).

12v &    240v electrical systems.

Victron Multiplus Inverter.

LED lighting throughout.

Alde (gas) Central heating.

Multi fuel stove.

Large, collapsible oak wheelhouse (doors at both port &    starboard sides). Large movable storage/seating unit. C/H radiator. Vetus hydraulic steering and control gear (including VHF radio).

Bedroom to stern with twin beds with storage space underneath. Free standing storage drawers.

Steps down from the wheelhouse leading to main living area.

Generous Bathroom with full size shower, wash basin in vanity unit and Jabsco deluxe flush pump out toilet. Radiator and extractor fan.

Side hatch.

Galley with Spinflo gas oven and separate 4 burner hob. 12v shoreline fridge. Microwave. Fitered water tap. Good range of units and stainless steel sink and drainer. Space and plumbing for 240v washing machine/dryer.

Large open plan Saloon with multi-fuel stove in tiled surround. Fitted Tv unit with aerial socket. Free standing oak sideboard. Modern L-shape bed settee providing additional double berth.

Last blacked (two-pack) March 2023.

Boat Safety Certificate to September 2024.

Viewing highly recommended – this is a really well appointed boat with a lovely homely feel.

  Please see Apollo Duck ref 757470 for more pictures.  

PARAGON - £89,950 (Was £99,950)

Now available to view at Blue Water Marina.

Bankside mooring available by separate negotiation.

40ft x 12ft Cruiser Stern Widebeam Narrowboat.

Built by Bluewater Boats Ltd  in 2009.

Barrus Shire 65hp diesel engine.

Vetus Bow &  Stern thrusters.

12v &  240v Electrical Systems.

Victron Combi 3kw Inverter/Charger.

3 x 300w Solar Panels.

7 Batteries (4 domestic, 1 engine, 2 bow thruster).

Solid fuel stove in saloon.

Double Glazing.

Diesel c/heating and air blown heating.

Rear deck with fixed seating/lockable storage.

Fully enclosed wheelhouse. Cockpit with steering wheel to port side and further seating to starboard side.

Steps down into galley with U-shaped galley to port side. 2 seater dinette to starboard side (converting to single berth).  Generous storage cupboards and drawers. Full size Oven, grill and four burner hob. Microwave, 12v fridge. Full size sink and drainer. Hide and Slide chest freezer in dinette.

Open plan Saloon with solid fuel stove in tiled corner surround and TV point. Storage cupboards under gunwhales. C/H Radiator.

Bathroom with full size bath, shower over with glass shower door. Cassette toilet and wash basin in vanity unit.

Forward cabin with fixed double berth and bedside cabinets to either side. 

Storage drawers to both port and starboard sides. Port storage houses washing machine.

Boat Safety Certificate to 2025.

Hull survey completed July 2023 (copy to view in marina office).

Please see Apollo Duck ref 746176 for more pictures.  

HARRIETT - £50,000

Moored elsewhere. Viewing by appointment only.

50ft Traditional Stern Narrowboat.

Built by Dave Clarke Boats in 1995.

Lister Petter Marine 36hp diesel engine.

Calorifier.

Alde central heating.

240v &    12v electrical systems.

New Inverter.

200 litre stainless steel water tank.

100 litre diesel tank.

Full external re-paint, new stainless steel portholes, Houdini hatch and mushrooms approx 7 years ago.

Really nice and light throughout.

Layout from bow to stern to bow:

Front cratch area with lockers/seating to both port and starboard sides.

Generous saloon area with two leather recliner chairs. Corner storage cupboards.

Large L-shaped fixed seating/dinette, can be converted to double berth.

Wall mounted Flat screen TV. Houdini hatch. Side hatch.

Fully tiled bathroom with ceramic toilet and sink, shower cubicle with curtain. Power shower. 

Double wardrobe/storage cupboard with Louvre doors.

Bedroom with fixed double bed, storage under. Overhead storage with lighting.

Single hanging wardrobe.

Galley with two double base units with large storage cupboards and drawers. Further eye level storage cupboard. Full size stainless steel sink and drainer. Single oven and separate grill. 4 burner gas hob.

Engine room to stern.

Last blacked and anodes fitted, February 2023.

Extremely well presented, viewing highly recommended!

Please see Apollo Duck Ref - 738780 for more pictures.

MASSIVELY REDUCED FOR A QUICK SALE!!

LOLLIPOP - Now £129,950 or very near offer

(Was £160,000)

57ft x 12ft Cruiser Stern Widebeam Narrowboat.

Built by Bluewater Boats Ltd in 2013.

Owner fit out to high standard.

10:6:5:6 Steel Spec.

Vetus 65hp 4 cylinder keel cooled engine.

Vetus 95 kgf electric bow thrusters.

Vetus 8 Kva generator.

900 litre stainless steel water tank.

1200 litre diesel tank.

Battened and Spray-foam insulated.

Harworth Bubble Burner diesel heating

LED Lighting throughout.

Large sociable, square  rounded stern with seating (storage under). Hydraulic steering at the rear port side. Removable tiller also fitted.

Steps leading to double glazed doors into galley. 

Beautiful, fully fitted galley with modern shaker style units and marble effect  granite worktops with matching upstands and splashback. Extra wide worktop makes for a roomy breakfast bar with two stools.  Huge range of storage units and drawers. Both base units and eye level units featuring frosted glass doors.

Full size oven and grill, 5 burner gas hob. 12v integrated freezer, separate free standing fridge. Integrated, full size dishwasher, washer and tumble dryer.

Open plan Saloon with solid oak flooring. Large focal point stove in granite surround with attractive TV unit and further storage unit with glass shelving to either side. 

6 x 4 Dog box aperature flooding the saloon with natural light.

Second bedroom with fixed double bed, storage under. Full length hanging wardrobe, Bedside cabinet and desk/dressing table with drawers.

Large fully fitted bathroom with large, tiled quadrant shower, modern wash basin in vanity unit and pump out toilet with fitted furniture to either side. Lots of storage.

Heated towel rail.

Main bedroom with fixed ottoman style double bed. Two full length hanging wardrobes to either side of glazed front doors. Cupboards and drawers to both port and starboard sides. Overhead storage units. Bedside lighting in headboard.

Boat Safety Certificate to May 2027.

Viewing highly recommended to appreciate the high spec finish throughout.

Please see Apollo Duck reference 716033 for more photo's.

-----SOLD-----

ALISS – £49,950

55ft Cruiser Stern Narrowboat.

Built by Burton Narrow Boats in 2000.

Fit out by Canal Side Joinery.

Thorneycroft diesel engine with calorifier.

PRM gearbox.

545 litre stainless steel water tank.

Galvanic isolator.

Sterling battery charger.

Solar panel.

Layout from bow to stern:

Front cratch with storage lockers/seating. Steps down into saloon.

Open plan saloon with solid fuel stove in corner surround. Corner storage unit with TV point.

2 Seater dinette with storage under seating.

Galley style kitchen with a generous range of base units and storage. Eye level oven and separate grill. Vanette 4 burner gas hob. Stainless steel sink and drainer with mixer tap and filter tap for water. 12v Shorline fridge with freezer compartment.

Single full length hanging wardrobe/storage cupboard.

Bathroom with Thetford cassette toilet. Good size shower unit with mixer shower. Wash basin in vanity unit.

Bedroom with two fixed single bunks with storage under. Overhead storage cupboard. Further wardrobe space.

Boat Safety Certificate to April 2026.

For more pictures please see Apollo Duck ref 736556.

 --SOLD--

COZ WE CAN - £74,950

57ft Cruiser Stern Narrowboat.

Built by Cain Narrowboats in April 2014.

Engine Canaline 42, PRM 150.

Sterling Pure wave 2500 watt inverter.

Oversized Surcal calorifier central heating via back boiler, Alde gas or engine hook-up.

Stainless steel fresh water tank.

300w 3 panel solar sytem with MPPT controller.

Merlin smart gauge battery monitor.

Alde Central Heating System.

Oversized stainless steel water tank with LED water gauge.

Solid fuel/wood burning stove with back boiler

14 gallon Hot water heated via both engine and immersion.

Fit out in American white oak

Brass light fittings and electrical sockets throughout.

Cratch cover &     match Pram hood in blue.

View Plus free view tv ariel.

Reverse Layout.

16' 6"(approx) Saloon, TV unit with upper and lower cupboards. Multi fuel cast iron stove with back boiler in attractive surround. Television point. Lounge leading onto the rear deck

9' 6"(approx) Galley. Fully fitted kitchen, full size hob, eye level oven, 12v fridge with seperate freezer, sink and drainer. Rolled edge worktops, ceramic tiled floor. Double radiator. Washing machine. Alde central heating system.

6' 6"(approx) walk through Bathroom. Full size glass quadrant shower, free standing contemporary basin with tall mono-chrome tap. Towels cabinet, Thetford cassette auto toilet. Sliding door to bedroom, hinged door to lounge. Double Radiator.

9' 2"(approx)Bedroom. Permanent double bed, with 4 under-drawers and large storage cupboard, over head cupboard, double wardrobe, Floor to ceiling cupboard with 3 draws. Stairs case leading to the front deck. Television point. Double Radiator.

All the lighting through out the boat is independently controlled, allowing both battery conservation and mood lighting to be set. All lighting is fully LED compatible.

Boat Safety Certificate to February 2026.

Immaculately presented! 

Viewing highly recommended!

Please see Apollo Duck ref 733779

 for more pictures.  

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The Blue Heron Cruiser Stern

Description

Step aboard The Blue Heron, a charming 57ft cruiser stern narrowboat with a timeless appeal. Built around 1990, this vessel offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of classic canal history. Though it lacks historical documentation, this boat is a blank canvas, waiting for its next owner to restore and reimagine it into a personalized retreat on the water. Offered for sale on behalf of the Admiralty Marshal of the High Court, The Blue Heron is sold strictly as is, where is, inviting the discerning buyer to embrace the adventure of transforming this vessel into a unique floating sanctuary.

The galley on The Blue Heron is a functional and welcoming space, designed to meet your everyday needs while you journey along the waterways. It features a 4-burner gas hob, perfect for preparing meals on board, a fridge to keep your provisions fresh, and ample worktops for meal preparation. Multiple kitchen units offer generous storage, ensuring that your cooking essentials are always within easy reach.

In the master bedroom, you'll find a cleverly designed fixed small double bed that can be converted into a full cross-over bed, providing flexible sleeping arrangements to suit your needs. The room also includes a wardrobe, offering ample storage space for clothing and personal items, making it easy to keep your living space tidy and organized.

The dinette area is a cosy nook ideal for dining or relaxing with a good book. The seating not only provides a comfortable space to unwind but also offers practical storage beneath, making efficient use of the available space. Whether you're enjoying a meal, planning your day, or simply taking in the tranquil surroundings, the dinette is a versatile and essential part of this narrowboat's layout.

The bathroom aboard The Blue Heron is equipped with all the necessary facilities to ensure your comfort during your travels. It features a shower cubicle for refreshing yourself after a day on the water, a basin with a vanity unit for your grooming needs, and a pump-out toilet, providing convenience and functionality.

The Blue Heron is more than just a boat; it's an opportunity to create a unique lifestyle on the water. With its classic design and potential for customisation, this narrowboat is perfect for those who appreciate the charm of traditional canal living and are ready to embark on a new adventure.

Key features

• Length/ Boat Style:  57’ Cruiser Stern
• Year:  Circa 1990’s
• Number of bathrooms:  one
• Hull By/ Fit out by:  Triton Boat Fitters / Liverpool Boat Builders
• Layout stern to bow:  Bedroom /Bathroom /Dinette / Kitchen / Saloon
• Engine and gearbox:  FOCS 37HP
• P/out or Cassette:  Pump Out
• Insulation:  Polystyrene
• Side Hatches and location:  Galley Starboard side
• Batteries:  1 x Starter 2 x leisure
• Electric Supply:  Shoreline hook up, 12v lighting throughout, 230v sockets, Sterling 2800w power inverter, Sterling charger
• Hot Water Supply:  Engine, Calorifier, Morco gas boiler
• Cabin Heating:  Multi fuel stove with back boiler
• Gas Cylinders No+ type:  2 x 13 kg Propane

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Whilst every care has been taken in the preparation of these specifications, no guarantee is given or implied as to their accuracy. These particulars are intended only as a guide and they do not constitute a term of any contract. Lakeland Leisure Estates Ltd advises prospective purchasers to obtain an independent survey from a qualified Marine Surveyor to satisfy themselves as to the condition of the craft.

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