1983 Classic East Coast Gaff Schooner

CONSTRUCTION: Mahogany on laminated oak frames (1983)

DIMENSIONS: LOA 52′ 0″ (15.8m), Beam 10′ 1″ (3.1m), Draft 4′ 10″ (1.5m)

KEEL TYPE: Long keel

ENGINE: Status 42 hp diesel (uses 3 litres/hour at cruising speed/6 knots)

RIG TYPE: Gaff Schooner

MAST & SPARS: Douglas fir (replaced 1995)

SAILS: Main, foresail, jib, gollywobbler, balloon jib, inner staysail (old) and storm trysail (new sails were new 1995)

DESCRIPTION: The boat has a good-sized cockpit, with companionway leading down into the main saloon. There is a full-length quarter berth to either side and forward of this, to port, is the vessel’s chart table and heads (with shower). Opposite this is the galley, which provides a Plastimo cooker (2 burners, grill and oven), fridge, sink-unit (with manually pumped cold water), worktop and cupboards/drawers. There is also a Blakes stainless steel kerosene cooker, though this is not installed. Going forward again there is a settee berth to either side and a fixed drop-leaf table, and in the bow there is a double berth. Headroom at 6′ is good, and the boat, with its décor in varnished mahogany and white paint, opening port lights and glazed hatch in the deckhead, looks bright and airy. Navigation equipment includes: 2 compasses, Autohelm and navigation lights. The boat carries 110 litres diesel and 700 litres water. She has 2 12v 200 a/hr batteries (brand new). The boat is fitted with stainless steel stanchions and guardlines and has teak-laid decks. Her standing rigging is in stainless steel and was all replaced in 1995, and it is understood there is also a Pro-Furl head stay available, though this is not currently in use. Deck equipment includes a Loftus electric anchor windlass, sail covers, awnings and a yacht cover (all new 1996/7). She carries a 70 lb CQR anchor plus 200 metres 12mm chain.

REMARKS: Understood to have won a trophy for Best Restored yacht in Barcelona, 1995, this boat appears to be in outstanding condition. In addition to the equipment above, there is also a Kerosene space heater (not installed), and some lifejackets, flares and 2 fire-extinguishers. Though not personally inspected, this looks to be a really lovely traditionally styled vessel.