Yacht Brokerage Sail&Power 30 to 60'

Fall is in the air! Tartan 4000 arrival....

2011-09-23T13:21:00.000-07:00

We unloaded a new Tartan 4000 this afternoon in the rain, a new arrival from the factory in Cleveland. She will have her spars stepped Monday and begin preparation for the Tartan display at the United States Boatshow. This boat is lucky hull #7 of the Tartan 4000 and will be rigged with carbon fibre mast and boom as standard equipment. Good looking yacht!

Survey in New England

2011-09-21T09:24:00.001-07:00

I helped client Bob Danehower gain a contract on a very nice Bristol 41.1 that is located in Fairhaven, Mass. Bob elected to fly surveyor Fred Wise (Galena, Md) up to inspect the boat. With a Ted Hood design there is always the question as to how you verify the condition of the centerboard/pendent/nico-press, et.al, Pictured is Fred inspecting the board that was replaced only five years ago, so no problems there!

Freedom 40 Sea-trial.....Courageous US-26 continues to look good!

2011-06-20T14:13:00.000-07:00

I had a great sail on Narraganset Bay this past week with my clients Jake&Kay Mast of Virginia. This was to sea-trial the Freedom 40 hull #17. It was a real pleasure to sail with "like new" Quantum sails and helmsman Jake Mast who quickly found the boats groove. This boat is a Pedrick design and plenty slippery!

It's always fun to see what is on the historic waterfront along Naraganset Bay; pictured is the remarkable US-12 "Courageous" that has such a remarkable history. I built sails for the boat going into the 1983 Defenders Trials when after all those years she ably served as trial horse to Defender. Great to see the great boat shining still!

Sabre 38 Hull#77

2011-05-18T11:49:00.000-07:00

This spring I have had the pleasure of working with Don Kollmorgen and Louise Woerner on the purchase of a new 38' Sabre (sedan) powered by the Volvo IPS system. Although our sea trial was temporarily interrupted by an inspection from a youthful home-land security crew, we continued up the Severn River to prove the ability of the "Pod" drive system.
Both Don and Louise appear to be quick studies and were able to walk the boat sideways with a 12 knot breeze directly on the beam of the boat. This is exciting new technology to us that we expect to be particulary helpful at low speeds/docking maneuvers. At speed the boat carves a turn that feels like a well tuned ski! There is a noticeable lack of vibration, cavitation, smoke,soot and noise.

Sabre Yachts built high quality sailing yachts for years and is now applying that know-how and aesthetic to build really pleasing power boats for sailor's. This 38 is handsome in the tradition of Maine built boats and combines a "Hunt-style" deep-vee entry with a low center of gravity.

I have really enjoyed the process of working through numerous options with Don&Louise, and wish them all the best in the enjoyment of their new boat!

MJM34 Discovery on Eastern Shore of Maryland

2011-04-21T08:16:00.000-07:00

The dogwoods are blooming on the Shore and we got away for a couple days of bike-riding. We discovered a lovely mint condition 2006 MJM 34, which is a downeaster designed by Doug Zurn and built by Mark Lindsey.
Although borrowing in some regard from the tradition of Jarvis Newman and his peers on the Maine Coast, this offering is extremely hi-tech as to design and construction. As a result she offers speeds and economy that a traditional full keel round bilge yacht will not approach.

If you or a friend want to explore the world of MJM's lets get over to the "Shore"!

Selene 53 2009 4-Sale in "Like New" condition!

2011-03-15T10:03:00.000-07:00

M/V "Moonbeam" is Hull#93 of the Selene 53's built by Jet-Tern Marine. She is a superb design and build and this boat was gently broken in, her only usage to date having been the inland "Loop". A recent price reduction makes "Moonbeam" a very attractive offering of a turn-key boat in top condition.

* Twin "Q-series" Cummins Electronic Diesels
* Hydraulic Active Fin Stabilizers
* 16 KW Northern Lights Diesel Generator
* 24 Volt power
* Hydraulic Dingy hoist mechanism
* RIB on hard-top
* Superb Satin-finish Teak Interior
* Owners Stateroom is Amid-Ships (Guest Stateroom Forward)

Much more lightly used gear; Call Scott Taylor for additional information and to make an apointment: 410 991 9798

Pilothouse Helm

Kady-Krogen 39 Pilothouse Trawler

2011-02-22T12:37:00.000-08:00

Repeat client Neil Jordaan recently settled on a 39' stabilized Kadey-Krogen.The original owners/sellers were also repeat clients and were living aboard the boat in Virginia. Surveys and sea trials were on the Elizabeth River Norfolk and Portsmouth which was busy even in the dead of winter...

The Krogen is a full displacement Trawler with full design sections to offer nice interior accommodations while at the same time having nice wide side decks. The Pilothouse rivals that of much larger vessels and is the nerve center of the boat.

Power is a four cylinder turbo-charged John Deere with well under a thousand hours. We at Crusader wish Neil all the best with his new yacht!

Selene 53 Survey/Happy New Year!

2011-01-11T15:14:00.000-08:00

I started the New Year off by traveling to South Florida for inspection, surveys, and sea trials of a 53 Selene Trawler built in mainland China by Jet-Tern Marine. My clients have hull #26 under contract as a likely "next boat".

If cruising under power is in the cards for your future, I highly recommend a very close look at this full-on displacement yacht. It is a smooth/steady runner and economical, in this case with a single Cummins Q-series diesel. The boat is steadied out by means of Wesmar Stabalizers and has a "get-home" wing engine.

This link will allow you to tag along for a bit of the sea trial!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AtEQQ_G7YzI

2010 December Brokeage Activity and Merry Christmas!

2010-12-21T09:55:00.000-08:00

CYS Staff bundled up for the cold weather!!

I am aware of three nice Trawlers that have gone under contract in December including a Krogen, Selene, and a 55 Fleming. Good activity considering such a cold month!

With two boat deals on the Potomac River this month I have been surprised by two inches of ice! We typically don't expect that until after the new year!

I am looking forward in the New Year to listing an Abeking/Rasmussen double-ender that was designed by William Atkins. Stay tuned for details on a remarkable double teak planked yacht!

Sabre 452, offshore equipped, New FAll Listing

2010-11-19T12:56:00.000-08:00

I am really pleased to have listed for sale, "Freedom" a 2000 model year Sabre 452. This offering is unique in that it has been exhaustively prepared for offshore sailing, both cruising and racing. She will winter here on jack-stands at Port Annapolis only a thirty minute sail to the start of the 2011 Annapolis/Newport race in which she will hopefully compete under new ownership. Full specs are available at yachtworld.com. Some highlights:

2009 Quantum Sails using laminate fabrics
2009 Canvass
Removeable Inner-Fore Stay for #4 hank-on jib (85%)
8kw Diesel Gen-Set and Air-Con
Feathering prop
Nice teak interior
Shoal draft via Jim Taylor keel
Fully ISAF compliant for Category I events (all the hard prep work is complete!)

Concordia 39 wooden planking on oak frames

2010-11-09T12:22:00.000-08:00

Recently hauled for routine maintenance this 39 Concordia continues to give great service to her owners...Remarkably, almost all of the sisterships (built in Germany in the 1950's and 60's) are still accounted for and most are actively sailing...

Fall in Annapolis!! Cool boats

2010-10-22T09:09:00.000-07:00

On my way to work this morning I was reminded of what a rich tapestry of boats/yachts we see here in Annapolis this time of year. The S&S 60 was just hauled to allow for a hull survey on behalf of a consortium of British Classic Yacht enthusiasts. Should she sell she will likely be sailing next in the UK.

Next is a recently painted Sabre 362. And a Lord Nelson 37 Pilothouse Trawler, currently available in brokerage.

Back to Back Boat Shows in Annapolis

2010-10-19T12:00:00.000-07:00

We had a great turnout at the Tartan C&C display at this years Annapolis Sailboat Show; attendance was up dramatically and a deposit taken to initiate a new model; the existing Tartan 4400 will be stretched to a 47 footer while retaining the raised salon effect.

Following the Sailboat Show we displayed the good looking and smooth running Bruckmann Yachts 34e Downeast at the Powerboat Show. She will remain in the water to facilitate sea trials over while the water remains warm!

Crusader Yachts Tartan C&C Factory Tour

2010-09-15T08:03:00.000-07:00

Here is the CYS staff visiting the boat building facility @ Tartan C&C; we are located in the laminating facility (think sausage making!) which is in contrast to a second facility four miles away where the boats are assembled and painted in a hi-tech paint booth.

Pictured 4th from right is the new owner Steve Malbasa with CYS President Nancy Cann

Tartan C&C Yachts Factory Visit

2010-09-10T07:09:00.000-07:00

I am just back from a meeting with the new ownership of Tartan C&C Yachts in Painesville, Ohio. We had a very in depth tour of the manufacturing process and met with key players there in the design and build process. Most importantly we were able to hear first hand the plans to move the company forward in it's 50th year.
The C&C 115 (Azurra Blue) will be shown next week at the Newport Boat Show and then shipped to Italy to it's new owner.

We look forward to displaying four new boats here in Annapolis in October!

Tartan C&C Yachts (excitement)

2010-09-01T10:29:00.000-07:00

We recently met with Tim Jackett and Steve Malbasa, (new owners of Tartan) and have been appointed to serve as their Mid-Atlantic Dealer. To the North of us will be East Coast Yacht Sales headquartered in Maine. Steve spoke with eloquence about his vision for the company and that he will promote the "client first" culture to insure that owning a Tartan is rewarding to the sailor. I am excited about this new opportunity and being associated with Tartan's fifty year legacy, especially having sailed on the boats back into the 1970's and also having designed sails for the boats in the 1980's. We will start with a factory tour next week just east of Cleveland. Prospective buyers are welcome at the factory and also an adjacent showroom facility where the boats will be displayed w/ climate control to allow for winter visits!

Lyman-Morse 38 "Lyra" Downeast "Real Deal"

2010-08-30T11:36:00.000-07:00

Last week I traveled East of New York City to visit a boat that I sold about five years ago. This boat built in Maine by Cabot Lyman on a 38' Young Brothers Hull has always been a favorite. It was a pleasure to catch up with the owners who are offering her for sale this Fall after having completed the "Loop" with the boat.

We took a nice ride out of Shinicock Inlet (stay away in rough weather!) and I had the chance to drive the boat in a swell on the Atlantic and then shoot into the inlet on a following sea. "Lyra" is a remarkable yacht!

Sale of "Helena" Beneteau 50

2010-08-23T10:07:00.000-07:00

I recently completed the sale of a nice cruising boat to repeat clients John and Debra Barrows of Annapolis. After giving consideration to Trawlers as a "next boat", they settled on the "Owners Version" of a lovely 50' Beneteau Model Year 2000. We have known this boat since it was sold new here in Annapolis and the past owners have enjoyed use of the boat from New England to the British Virgins.

After some new canvass and tweaking of the boats systems, the Barrows plan to head South in November, as they did last year in their previous boat which we sold for them this spring. They look forward to being aboard full time for several months and having the benefit of a Furling Mainsail, Diesel Generator, Heat/Air, and a bow thruster, to name a few!

Helena, now named "Mandalay", was on the hard in Galesville during the survey and sea trial process. Many thanks are due to Charlie Duvall at West River Yacht Harbor for getting after a punch list that included reconditioning of the feathering Max-Prop, a replacement prop-shaft, and a serious compounding, buff, and wax job that restored the boats dark blue gel-coat.

Here's hoping that the Barrows enjoy smooth sailing with their new yacht!

Bristol Channel Cutter is sold to longtime clients

2010-07-22T12:34:00.000-07:00

"Longsparrow" 3 sail reaching in 12 knots of breeze

I recently completed the sale of an extremely really nice Bristol Channel Cutter to long time clients David and Ellen Dawson of Haverford,Pa. I was also working on behalf of the sellers, Bob and Lois Plank who like the Dawson's have owned a series of cruising sailboats over the years. I owe thanks to both parties for their confidence and long term support (totaling eight transactions)

"Longsparrow" was surveyed by Kelsey/Turner Associates of Annapolis, and was proven very sound, and sold at her contract price. I am encouraged to see that the Buyers were able to bring a "lender" to the table for such a unique boat built in 1984. Hopefully this points to a thawing out in the credit world!

On sea trials we pushed the new Yanmardiesel harder than the seller was accustomed as is usually the case in ascertaining if the cooling system is up to snuff. No problems even with 83 degree water! We were however limited to sailing in about five knots of breeze. Fortunately the sailing characteristics of these Cutters are well documented over the years by their owners who have sailed them offshore extensively.

The Dawson's are starting ownership with a three week shakedown cruise, with plans to voyage further afield now that there children are grown. I wish the Dawson's Fair Winds and look forward to working with the Planks towards the purchase of their next Cutter!

M. Scott Taylor-CPYB

"Niche" Lyman-Morse 40' Sloop for Offshore and Thin Water!

2010-06-14T07:08:00.000-07:00

I am excited to see one of my favorite sailing yachts come back on the market. Her hull and deck were built on a custom basis by Cabot Lyman in Thomasten, Me. and them completed by David Crane at the Todd Boatworks in Oxford, Maryland to a Craig Walters design. Craig pulled on a design philosophy melding offshore performance with significant shoal draft by means of a centerboard and retractable rudder.

Part of my recall of Niche is that of sailing upwind in 18 to 20 knots with the owner/builder sailing the boat using only a trim-tab on the trailing edge of the rudder.

Niche is a remarkable boat and can be seen on jack stands in a covered building on the Maine Coast.

Sandbaggers @ the City Dock

2010-05-24T15:19:00.000-07:00

Susan Taylor has been working in conjunction with the National Sailing Hall of Fame to offer waterfront community sailing aboard a pair of wooden/gaff rigged Sandbagger replicas. I have signed on to operate a support boat and yesterday trimmed the sizable mainsail! We don't cleat the sheets on this rig!

Lyman-Morse Lobster Yacht

2010-05-17T11:20:00.000-07:00

I am very excited to learn that one of my favorite DownEast boats of all time will be available for sale later this summer or in the Fall quarter; the owners plan some light use of the boat this summer.
"Lyra" is a 38 footer built by Cabot Lyman in 1994 for a sailor who had previously owned a 44' Seguinn also built by Lyman-Morse. Therefore,she is a custom built yacht, built by a world class boat builder for an experienced sailor. The outcome is really special! She is a true-deal downeaster that has enjoyed good ownership by each of her three owners. While in Annapolis (under previous ownership) she was always shed-kept. More recently she has had good care (including new awlgrip paint) by the same firm that built the Shelter Island boats. The current owners employed the boat to navigate the "Loop" and will be passing the boat to new owners in very fine condition!

Hood 40/Gulfstar

2010-04-28T14:52:00.000-07:00

Back in the late 1970's there was a collaboration of Ted Hood and the Florida production boatbuilder Gulfstar. The seventeen boats that were built were clearly to another standard, relative to the stock Gulfstar. The outcome was a very nice (and expensive in her day) keel-centerboarder of moderate to heavy displacement. I sailed on a sistership here on the Chesapeake that served two families over a twenty five year stretch of time, equally well as a cruising boat and point to point race boat. I ran across this boat offered for sale in South Florida by a friend of mine. What a great boat for the Keys and Bahamas!

Bruckmann 34 Sea Trial

2010-04-17T13:48:00.000-07:00

We had the pleasure of running the 34 Bruckmann this past week with Captain Pat Teeling at the helm. The 440 Yanmar offers great performance through a wide range up to and including 25/26 knots with four people and a half load of fuel. The B34E is not a light boat. To me she feels more like an Eastbay under way than many lighter weight counterparts.With her deep-vee entry and wide chines she is quick to plane and cut through a nasty chop with ease and no hint of pounding.....Mark Ellis got this hull form just right!
We will be double checking our data from the sea trial with Jeff Leitch of Bay Shore Marine to be sure that the Yanmar and associated drive train are just right for the new owner. Look for the B34e at the "un-boatshow" May 1 @ Chesapeake Harbor in Annapolis,Md.

Hinckley Bermuda 40 Sale

2010-04-17T13:22:00.000-07:00

I had the pleasure this month to work with Dick Zimmerman of Hartge Yacht Sales on the sale of a lovely Bermuda 40. "DickZ" is one of the true gentleman in the industry and takes great care of his clients. At this point in his lengthy career he has likely forgotten more about boats, sailing, and design than the average broker will ever absorb!
The new owners will base "Ondine" to be renamed "Sometime", at Hartges alongside of hull#1

Freedom 35 "Suzee"

2010-04-10T15:04:00.000-07:00

There is an accepted offer on "Suzee", the Gowards 35' 1994 Freedom. She is pictured here sailing on Maryland's Eastern Shore. The boat is on our display deck about one boat width from where they purchased the boat six years ago! There is little doubt that displaying a good boat on the "deck" is an effective means of finding a new owner...purchase is subject to sea trials and marine survey.

Bernuda40 MKIII

2010-03-19T11:39:00.000-07:00

I was recently reconnected with a client who years ago purchased a Hinckley Pilot that had been equipped with a carbon fiber spar. We surveyed and sailed that boat on the Severn River before it was shipped to Nova Scotia. Here is Peter's new boat, a Bermuda40 MKIII, with guess what, a custom two spreader carbon fibre mast! We hope to see Peter here on the Chesapeake with his new boat!

Early Season Sea Trial

2010-03-15T12:54:00.000-07:00

After weeks of snow on the ground it felt great to get out on the water this weekend with Carlo De Notaristefani, buyer of "Escape Plan". The laminate cruising sails proved to be in excellent condition and the Universal Diesel turned up as desired. Carlo will be relocating the boat to Liberty Marina on the Hudson river which offers a view (and water taxi service) right into lower Manhattan.

40' Webbers Cove Flybridge Sedan

2010-03-01T08:20:00.000-08:00

Over the weekend I ran across one of my favorite boats on the Chesapeake Bay. For the last three years I have been following a thoughtful restoration of a boat that was built in Blue Hill, Me. in 1978. The hull was laminated in tooling belonging to Webbers Cove and then delivered to the close by facility of Brooklin Boatyard for completion. Joel White's signature appears on the builders certificate confirming that "Leeway" is the "real deal" Downeaster.
She was built for David Hollingsworth of Wilmington, De. and now under second ownership by a gentleman who comes from a significant sailboat background.
"Leeway" is currently stored in a building, available for sale, and an early spring launch!

35 Southern Cross Cutter, Nice Cruising Boat!

2010-02-24T11:44:00.000-08:00

Good boats and boats under good ownership tend to return to us for resale. A case in point is "Prudence" the 35' Southern Cross that is currently headed to Annapolis to facilitate a spring sale. The last time that "Prudence" was on our display deck she was the interest of two overlapping offers after about fourteen days.

The design by Tom Gillmer is just right to serve as a dependable and economical couple's cruiser, as she has for her past three owners. Please call me if this boat is a point of interest!

John Deere Marine Diesels

2010-02-16T10:50:00.000-08:00

On visiting our local Yanmar Rep, Bay Shore Marine, I had a look see at their boat show display; a six cylinder 6.8L marine engine from John Deere. I have seen their four cylinder engines in boats such as a Krogen 39 displacement trawler, and they are quickly gaining a great reputation for boating in this decade.
Relative to competing products this engine turns slower (between 2300 to 2800 rpm)and is considered an excellent choice for work boats, trawlers, recreational boats, and patrol craft. The slower turning engine will appeal to boaters who value dependability and speed over top end performance. North American headquarters are in Indiana and there are numerous worldwide locations. for more detail stop by Bay Shore or go to www.JohnDeere,com/marine

32' Downeaster Opportunity Knocks!

2010-02-09T06:11:00.000-08:00

Occaisionally, and most often in the dead of winter, we see an exceptional deal become available. Not usually with this genre of boat however. It's the SeaRays and Carvers more often going to foreclosure....something about the culture of those boats?
This is a Spencer Lincoln designed hull (1999) which places it squarely in the category of a no-nonsense Downeast workboat hull. The 440 Yanmar (w about 400 hours) is reported to offer an eighteen knot cruise. the boat was finished off on the Cape in Massachsetts with a comfortable fit and finish. Not to the highest standards but estetically pleasing.
If you have been looking for the proverbial deal on a Lobster Yacht, please call a.s.a.p!

Inside Storage

2010-02-08T12:35:00.000-08:00

I feel really fortunate to be storing a boat in a building this winter. As you can see this is turning out to be a tough year for boats stored out in the elements. A friend of mine has built numerous large buildings for this purpose and the cost is not much more than storing a boat here in Annapolis w/ shrinkwrap. Plus you have access to your boat for winter projects. April is usually a tough month to make headway (out of doors) so the inside storage can also facilitate a timely lauch with the boat ready to go!

Florida Yacht and Ship Brokers License

2010-02-05T11:28:00.000-08:00

In 2009 I stood for my Professional Yacht Brokers Exam to gain the CPYB accreditation.
I am happy to report that in 2010 the State of Florida has issued me a Yacht and Ship broker License to practice yacht brokerage in the state of Florida.
This will enable me to assist Buyer's and Seller's with the purchase and sale of boats located within the Florida jurisdiction. This represents a territory that is historically rich in the inventory of brokerage boats and will be a great compliment to my business and I hope will allow me to offer even better service to my client base. Let's plan a trip in February to inspect boats in Florida!

Hans Christian 45 PH

2010-02-04T06:52:00.000-08:00

I had the pleasure of meeting with a repeat client yesterday to inspect a Hans 45 Pilothouse Trawler.
This is a single engine passagemaker with very comfortable accommodations. This is a boat that is often considered by sailor's looking to cruise with more tankage, payload, and the ability to invite guests. Nice yacht!

Pat Teeling aboard Bruckmann 34

2010-01-22T10:27:00.000-08:00

Pat stopped by today to eyeball the Brucmann 34 and discuss some commissioning and tweaking plans for the boat. Pat has a yacht service company in Annapolis and brings to bear a lifetime of experience around boats from traditional wood construction, to commercial tugs/barges/tow boats, to the 30 flush deck racing sailboat that he campaigns with his spouse (helmsperson) Amy.

Bruckmann 34 E Hardtop Cruiser

2010-01-20T12:00:00.000-08:00

The Bruckmann 34 is one of those boats that looks better and better as you begin to appreciated the attention to detail that went into the design and build process. The joinery is a combination of varnished teak and varnished mahogany that is eye-popping!
The lighting fixtures are from Denmark and are very attractive....
Then, raise the helm deck and jump down into the engine compartment. Lot's of room and neat plumbing and wiring.

Some astute Buyer is going to take delivery of a very special yacht this spring!

New Bruckmann 34!

2010-01-13T10:06:00.000-08:00

A nice boat is just arrived from New England. The 34 Bruckmann is a 2007 unsold model available for sale with warranties. The hull form was originally designed by Mark Ellis for Freedom Yachts and marketed as the Legacy 34 in two or three different configurations.
This is a beautifully finished single screw 34 that will be in display with us this winter/spring! Highly recommended!

HInckley Bermuda 40 Covered

2009-12-27T11:47:00.000-08:00

Mother nature sent us a strong message this past week which encouraged us to get the winter cover on "Ondine". It's a nicely fitted cover that can be used while on jackstands as pictured or in the water using sandbag weights. Thanks to Captain Pat Teeling for getting the cover installed while most in the boat business were at home!

December Blizzard in Annapolis

2009-12-21T13:23:00.000-08:00

A low pressure system filled the marina with snow before Christmas! Very unusual........nevertheless we are here attending to business!

Express Trawler

2009-12-17T13:07:00.000-08:00

My friend and repeat client Peter Edwards of North Conway, NH is purchasing a 36 Albin Express Trawler to complement his 37' Pacific Seacraft. The Trawler will be based between Florida and Maryland with plans to visit the Bahamas. Peter's sailboat is based out of Boothbay Harbor,Me.

This Trawler has a semi-displacement hull, the previous owner having operated the boat typically in the 8/9 knot range by means of a single screw Caterpillar 3126 diesel and complemented by an 8KW Northern Lights Gen-Set. For docking there are both bow and stern thrusters.

There are some flatter sections aft that allows the boat to plane when turned up to 2500 rpm. Peter like his predecessor plans to operate the boat at the more economical side of the fuel burn spectrum, about five gph...

Peter's cruising will start in April with a passage from the Florida Gulf, across the Okeechobee Canal and then Northwards.

Wooden Tug

2009-12-15T13:54:00.000-08:00

While on a survey in the Tampa area I came across this jewell of a Tug; named after her builder (38 years ago in Mahogany)the current owner was just completing a yacht finish paint job. The proverbial labor of love!

Robbins 40

2009-12-10T14:43:00.000-08:00

Late in the season I often see the most interesting boats. On my way in off the Severn River a couple of days ago I noticed this "Bay Boat" fueling up at the mouth of the creek. It turns out to be a custom boat built by Matthews Brothers, using the Robbins 40 hull which enjoys a greaet reputation from decades of service to watermen. Matthews gained the use of this tooling when Cecil Robbins retired from his business in Cambridge,Md.

This boat has a much higher level of fit and finish than a commercial boat and is powered with a sizeable Yanmar diesel that is suprisingly economical and yet will put the boat up on a plane with ease. I can only imagine this boat with a colored hull, say ice blue?

Thanksgiving Sail....visit to Sceptre 41 PH

2009-12-03T13:46:00.000-08:00

This morning I picked up an Annapolitan and drove to the Sassafras river to have a look at "Sea Bright" the 41' Scepre built in Vancouver,B.C. Each time I visit this boat I become even more impressed. She is a very well thought out cruising boat and this one is loaded with valuable spare gear, bow thruster, and nice sails....

December is blessing us with a nice bump in business at Crusader Yachts. I have a client who just gained an accepted offer on a boat in Florida. Colleagues are selling Tayana's in the 52 and 55' range and a lovely Nordhavn Trawler. This gives us optimism that the brokerage market is in recovery from the economic downturn!

Hereshoff Replica

2009-11-23T09:57:00.000-08:00

Burt Winchester of Annapolis has recently completed the restoration of a Gaff-rigger that I think may be the pretiest boat on the Chesapeake Bay! I caught her sailing to Galesville in 15 to 18 knots with a following sea. I especially appreciate the fact that he has "no fear" in letting the big mainsail "breath downwind"!

Eatbay 47 "Triple Play"

2009-11-23T09:52:00.000-08:00

November on the Chesapeake Bay is without a doubt "prime time". I was on the Severn River yesterday and found Paul Borssuck headed to the Eastern Shore with his 2005 Eastbay "Triple Play". This will be the fourth winter running that he has used indoor storage to protect the boat.

"Triple Play" is a Ray Hunt design that offers the ultimate handling in rough water!

Thanksgiving Boat Sales

2009-11-21T08:05:00.000-08:00

Two boats selling this Holiday week @ CYS are the 29 BackCove "Sweet Eld" and the Passport 40 "Thalia". The BackCove will remain in Annapolis on the Severn River while "Thalia" is headed to deeper latitudes.

Both sets of sellers have been remarkably patient, selling their boats in a tough market. "Sweet Eld" was first offered for sale in April and "Thalia" in September. Both boats were in great condition and required only the most minimal attention to post survey punch lists.

Thanks to Bill Watson, Suzanne Welch, Kirk Nelson, and Lisa Ruff for their business and best wishes for a great Thanksgiving Weekend!

Hinckley Bermuda 40 Arrival

2009-11-11T14:07:00.000-08:00

"Ondine" sailed in over the weekend and was hauled to the Crusader Yachts display deck. She is a MKIII Bermuda 40 built in the heyday of Hinckley Yachts in Southwest Harbor Maine. "Ondine" is a fine example and has been kept in Bristol condition by her owners of ten years. Twice in that time frame the boat has been back to the builder for refitting and yacht quality restoration.

Sailing "Ondine" is made easy by means of an electric roller furling mainsail, electric primary winches, and a centerboard that can be raised and lowered (again with electrial power) from the helm station. I look forward to finding this fine yacht a new caretaker!

Sabre 42 Downeast 2004 model

2009-11-05T10:39:00.000-08:00

Port Annapolis Marina is doing some nice paint jobs these days. Pictured is a 42 footer that is just leaving the paint shed with 3 coats of Awlgripp with a clear coat over. The overall effect is stunning compared to the chaulky gel-coat that went into the shed!

2009 Leukemia Cup on S&S 58' "Windlier"

2009-10-25T12:18:00.001-07:00

The crew of Windalier raced the old girl from Baltimore Light to Ft. McHenry on October 24th,for the second time participating in a worthy fundraiser. We had twenty five knots sustained at the start from the SSW and rollers up the Bay with a flood tide. A large part of the fleet was having control problems but owner Thad Bench kept Windalier nicely on her feet with a big A-Sail flown from the headstay. Thad was assisted on mainsail trim by John Shannahan of Oxford Yacht agency. John is fresh from a two year Shields One-Desigh program and brought us some new insight as to sailing an Olin Stephens design from 1962!

The photos attached were taken from the transom of Windalier just prior to the finish line. The monster "A"-sail belongs to "Escape Plan" the 38 Ericson (currently listed with Crusader) belonging to Ted& Carla Reshetlioff of Annapolis. They sailed beautifully in the big breeze!

Also attached is a picture of the very comfortable and "like new" Eastbay 43 that served as Windalier's tender for the weekend.

Bruckman Yachts 50' Motorsailor

2009-10-19T07:42:00.000-07:00

Nancy Cann, principle of Crusader has arrived at an agreement with custom yacht builder Mark Bruckman to represent his line of custom yachts! We will be concentrating on a 50 footer (there is currently one under build) that was designed by Mark Ellis.

This is a boat that sails well, has good visiblitiy from both helms, and has remarkable cruising range when factoring in the John Deere 150hp auxillary diesel.

Nancy and husband Craig visited the Bruckman 50 at the Newport Boat Show and were "wowed" by the design, fit, and finnish. Craig spent some time in the engine "hole" and was plesantly surprised by the acsess to vital systems...

Current owners of these boats come from the ranks of sailor's experienced in sailing boats like the J46 and Mason44; crusing boats that sail well! The BRuckman 50 is a great boat to consider for the couple looking for more creature comforts without crossing over to the "dark side"!

Annapolis Sailboat Show 2009

2009-10-13T06:09:00.000-07:00

Great weather and a more upbeat vibe was prevelant at the Annapolis Sailboat Show this Fall. In contrast to 12 months ago when the Dow was in a free fall with no bottom in sight, there were lot's of sailor's visiting our brokerage booth in tent "C" to discuss future plans and to enjoy a slide show of our current offerings.
Thanks to all who stopped by!

Fall Price Reductions

2009-09-26T20:52:00.001-07:00

We have seller's who are serious about moving their boats this Fall;

28 Bristol Channel Cutter to $135,000

29 Back Cover '07 to $162,500

32' Judge to $99,000

Bristol Channel Cutter

2009-09-22T13:56:00.000-07:00

"Jolie Brise", the 1984 Bristol Channel Cutter is getting some TLC on our display deck in anticipation of the Annapolis Boat Show. The owners are fortunate to have connected with my friend GlenRoy who has developed a sterling reputation in Annapolis for his skills with the varnish brush. His clients include the owners of Masons, Flemmings, Eastbays, and Grand Banks Yachts. Great boat and a great worker!

Steel Boat Project

2009-09-22T08:45:00.000-07:00

Living and working around boats you see some amazing "happenings". I peeked under a tent at Bert Jabins Marina earlier this summer to see the early stages of a steel boat refit by Southbound Cruising Services,LLC. a local rigging company. In this time frame it was a scary movie with sandblasting being the primary focus of the restoration team. This is hard brutal work that was ongoing under a tent with 90 degree temps outside of the tent. It was as though they were "baking" a new boat!

Brian Duff is the project manager with numerous refits under his belt and the know-how that goes along with being a rigger who has come up through the ranks...

When I stopped by this morning I could not believe my eyes. This would most typically have been a multi year project with the likely scenario of never achieveing a launch but rather passing it along to the next sailor with a dream. Not this project; this baby is going in the water and to deeper latitudes pronto!

Amazing effort on the part of Southbound Cruising Services. If you are looking for help with your boat, drop me an email and I will connect you to Brian.

Bristol Channel Cutter (on deck!)

2009-09-16T11:47:00.000-07:00

The newest addition to our brokerage display deck is a head-turner named "Jolie Brise". Built as a labor of love by Sam Morse in California in 1984, she recently sailed into Annapolis by owners who are offering the boat for sale. She is one stout boat inspired by the Pilot Boats of the eighteenth century. Lovely yacht!

Tugboats

2009-09-08T13:23:00.000-07:00

There is nothing like a Tug....over the Holiday Weekend, my family was invited to help deliver a tugboat back to it's slip at the head of the Severn River. I have never seen so many smiles and waves directed at a "character boat". Even to the point of a passenger in a Whaler shouting out "I want your boat!".

Our friends Alice and Andy Mutsch have enjoyed this boat for several seasons following ownership of a Dickerson 37 Cutter.

Hinckley Bermuda 40's

2009-09-02T12:16:00.000-07:00

I had a spectacular sail this morning from the Rhode River to the National Sailing Hall of Fame Docks as guest aboard "Bramare", Al Boersma's 1964 Yawl. We had about fourteen to sixteen knots of breeze out of the NE and smooth water. This good old boat can flat out sail upwind in part due to a nice fresh suit of North Sails....The B40's are celebrating their fiftieth birthday with a Chesapeake Cruise and are happy to have the first and most recently built boats in attendance.

The Hinckley name carries so much cache in the world of boats that preceptions develop about the owners of these classic yachts. No doubt there is a minority that may be motivated to own a Hinckley simply for bragging rights? I have developed a completely different viewpoint, that there are a number of owners who are still sailing their beloved boats actively and even hard, including a Chesapeake couple who are completing a circumnavigation....

Great day on a great boat!

Cooler Weather Sailing

2009-08-25T14:10:00.000-07:00

After sailing on the Chesapeake in August this activity in Vermont looks pretty good! Friends from Middlebury enjoying a sail on a Force Five and a board.....

New Listings of Classic Yachts!

2009-08-24T12:11:00.000-07:00

As we turn the corner into the Fall brokerage season I have listed for sale two extrordinary yachts:

"Windalier", the 58' Sparkman&Stephens Yawl, built by Abeking&Rasmussen in Lemwerder,Germany in 1962. I am charged with finding a new "caretaker" of this lovely, living, and breathing yacht!

"Jolie Brise", the 28' Bristol Channel Cutter, a masterpiece built by Sam L. Morse and inspired by the working pilot boats of the Eighteenth Century.

Two remarkable boats that I feel privleged to be associated with!

35 Freedom "Suzee"

2009-08-11T13:53:00.000-07:00

Top-Knot yacht service was aboard Suzee today and made great strides in preparing the boat for a new owner. The hull sides waxed/buffed up remakably well suggesting that this boat will not require a hull paint job for years to come unless a new owner just "has to have" a colored hull. The white gelcoat is in great condition!
In spite of the heat the mechanic really applied himself and also did a great job with a dustless sander on the boats bottom. No sign of any blistering and in the morning she will have fresh ablative anti-fouling paint.
"Suzee" is approaching turn-key status for the Fall boating season on the Chesapeake!

2009 Oxford Race

2009-08-08T06:10:00.000-07:00

The Summer Race to Oxford is a classic Chesapeake event and I sailed yesterday on a fully restored Tripp 41 owned by Jim Hayes of Annapolis. The boat was built on Naraganset Bay by Barret Holby in 1996. Since Jim's point of purchase about four years back he has morphed the boat from an IMS purpose built racer to add some cruising comforts. The outcome is a high performance cruising boat that can go racing if enough of Jims friends are available....
This was the first outing and it was special due to the cast of characters assembled from Jim's sailing buddies over the years. Charlie Scott (J-24 World Champion and overall SORC winner) came out of semi-retirement to skipper the boat. Anyone who has sailed with Charlie knows that he has a remarkable imbedded talent for helming a race boat. Former North Sail Designer John Danley trimmed the mainsail and ducked below occaisionally to check the plotter for skinny water. Richard Robinson from Wye Mills ably ran the pit.Rob Pennington (North Sails Chesapeake) trimmed headsails and kites and the builder Barret Holby ran the front of the boat. Three of these guys are veterans of the S&S 60 "Running Tide" so we are talking lots of experience! I would say that the cumulative racing experience of our crew would be in the range of 300 years! To balance our maturity we had Barrets lovely girlfriend Raquel, Charlie Stewart a recent grad of Colorado College and somewhere in the middle of the mix my spouse Susan Dierdorff Taylor and myself.

The race was a typical light air event in which we placed second in Class A-0. We were pleased to find that the boat offered a good turn of speed both up and downwind. We now have a punch list to tune the rig, install some new battens in the mainsail, repack a winch and so forth. On the otherhand the boat could comfortably sail to the Coast of Maine tomorrow in cruising mode with a Dacron Full-Batten Main on a Dutchman system.The boat now has a comfortable and handsome interior with fore and aft private cabins.

Picture of Tripp 41 @ Tred Avon Yacht Club last Fall

2009 Governors Cup/Windalier

2009-08-04T19:26:00.000-07:00

I sailed a fairly uneventful light air Gov Cup Race on "Windalier" the 58'Abeking&Rasmussen built yawl. We had a nice reach down the Bay and celebrated Mike Keeen's birthday with a cake on deck with candles @ sunset......later in the evening the wind dropped out leaving us to nurse the 50,000 lbs of lovely mahagony and cedar into the St. Mary's River in light air. One wonders why this race can't be finished in the Potomac River. Who would complain about motoring up the St. Mary's River?? The deal with Windalier is that we don't like to have to "restart" her. Therefore lot's of effort is concentrated towards "keeping her moving" in the light stuff.

The delivery to the start of the race and from St. Mary's back to Rock Hall is a very different story than the race! Lot's of wind/waves and a learning experience for the crew as we continue to learn what the boat likes in various conditions. Thankfully, one of our crew with Log Canoe experience under his belt had seen this movie before. The clouds over Sandy Point were dark and rotating. The next hint was the appearance of "dust devils" on the beach. This gave us the cue to pull down/roll up anything resembling a sail! We ran downwind (prior to the start) under bare poles with short steep waves making up due to the fetch down the Magothy River....the boat is making over six knots (cog), so what to do when the Eastern Shore is looming large to leeward. Well, try a tad of stay sail? It's blowing the dogs of chains and I am concerned that a bit of stay sail will give us leeward helm but wow! The small bit of stay sail allows for about twenty degrees higher heading and some breathing room on the lee shore. I recall that we also applied some of the after centerboard (small appendage usually reserved for downwind control)to gain some more weather helm.
Later that evening I pull up some floorboards to find the bilges bone dry! I love double planked wooden boats!
Captain Thad Bench of Worton, Md. puts an eclectic and skilled crew together including sailors from Kent, Talbot, and Anne Arundel Counties. So when off watch we have the opportunity to compare what's going on in these distinctly different cultures!
Once at anchor in the St. Mary's River the crew enjoyed a soothing swim in eighty degree water, decorated ship, and went ashore for the festivities. Thanks to Thad for a memorable weekend on Windalier!

Freedom 35 "Suzee"

2009-07-30T13:31:00.000-07:00

I enjoyed sailing with Sam/Sue Goward this week bringing their 1994 Freedom 35 into Port Annapolis Marina. "Suzee" is now available for inspection on our display deck. This will represent a sixth transaction with the Gowards over a sixteen year period. Good news for a new owner is that the Gowards always leave their boats in better condition and better equipped than their point of purchase!

The Pedrick design is really nice to sail even in the lower wind ranges. We saw five knots boat speed in ten knots of breeze. She is a balanced boat that loves to sail beofore the wind, wing and wing, and can overcome her hull speed when the waves are up! Highly recommended boat!

Windalier Summer Shakedown

2009-07-20T06:29:00.000-07:00

The 57' S&S yawl "Windalier" enjoyed an extensive spring overhaul at Haven Harbor Marina and was just splashed. My daughter Chandlee Taylor and I were invited to join owners Thad&Renee Bench and regular crew members for a day sail (Rock Hall to Annapolis) to check out the new running rigging, prop,prop shaft, and hull sides paint job. We left Rock Hall in a gentle West North-Westerly which built to about 16 knots true by the time we were sailing under the Bay Bridge. This gave us a power reach with four sails drawing and another wonderful sail on "Windalier" with great company. We slipped the boat at the National Sailing Hall of Fame Docks and the crew spent a remarkably comfortable evening aboard (this is July in Annapolis!)
Pictured at the helm is Chandlee Taylor w/ Renee to windward and Thad to leeward.

2007 Back Cove

2009-07-16T11:11:00.000-07:00

The owners of "Sweet Eld" have made it clear in no uncertain terms that they would like to see an offer on their nice 29 Back Cove. With the recent price reduction of 10k she is priced to move.

Attached are a couple of recent pictures of the boat (July) at Port Annapolis Marina. Turn Key for the 2nd (better) half of the season.

Judge 32 Price Reduction

2009-07-16T11:05:00.001-07:00

These boats are built on a semi-custom basis on Marylands Eastern Shore. This 2001 model has just had a summer haircut to the asking price, down 10k to $119,000 asking.
The boat was configured for a retired sailing couple to do race-committee work and fish with grand children. The boat is very clean and has low hours on the Cummins Diesel. Highly Recommended!

Hylas 44 "Exuberant"

2009-07-10T08:15:00.000-07:00

It was a pleasure to have coffee this morning at the City Dock with Burt&Pru Preston, new owners of the 44 Hylas "Exuberant". The Prestons had a tight reach up the Bay yesterday from Solomons,Md. in about fourteen knots of breeze. It was almost sweater weather on the mooring ball in the Annapolis Harbor last night. We can't believe this is July!

The Preston's worked hard preparing the boat for their maiden voyage of about 1000 nautical miles to Lake Erie. So from here they are headed inland via the Hudson River. The boat looks great and has already benefitted from new enthusiasm and a few "boat units"! New alternators, regulators, and AGM batteries were on the short list as the boat had been sitting out of use for eighteen months.

The Preston's are clearly on a fast learning curve (they have already bled air out of the Yanmars fuel lines)and have sorted out the use of the hydraulic furling systems, and repacked the big primary (electric) winches.

We at Crusader wish them a safe trip and look forward to seeing them on the flip side when they head to the Islands!

AMI Kids Yacht Donations

2009-07-09T13:50:00.000-07:00

We were visited by Dudley Savage of AMI KIDS, a longstanding 501C3 organization that operates programs nationwaide for teenage kids at risk.

AMI has been a great partner for some of our clients who are in a position to benefit from a tax shelter when the time comes to sell their boat. We have also assisted boat buyers in chartering boats owned by AMI.
Call your Crusader Broker for more detail!

Pacific Seacraft 44 new arrival to brokerage

2009-07-09T11:49:00.000-07:00

The lift crew exercised their skills this afternoon, adroitly situating a new Crusader Yachts listing adjacent to our display deck. A Crealock design in 44' with a sixty foot rig is a sight to behold! She is relatively narrow for a forty four footer (by todays standards) and has a lovely sheer-line to complement the canoe stern. This boat will no doubt often be the prettiest boat in the harbor!

"Ocean Child" was awlgripped both hull-sides and super structure such that maintainance is now polishing rather than compounding... boat has a bright white awlgripped hull and updated stainless steel rigging, hunter green canvass to match the boot top and shear stripe, and updated electronics!

The interior is spacious, full of light, and just plain feels good!

"Summertime" price reduction

2009-07-07T09:05:00.000-07:00

The 32 Island Gypsy "Summertime" is avilable for inspection at Port Annapolis Marina and now priced to sell @ $72,500 (Seventy Two Thosand Five Hundred Dollars) This is a very nice cruising platform for a couple powered by a single economical Ford-Lehman Diesel.

Inspections and close offers are encouraged by her owners who are ready to pass their vessel on to new owners for the second half of the 09 season.

Racing w/ Kyle Commerford

2009-07-06T08:24:00.001-07:00

On Sunday the 5th of July I had the pleasure of crewing for Kyle Commerford (estimated age 13?) aboard "Big Al&Miss Betsy's" J40 "Lark". Kyle is the son of industry pros Ken&Jen Commerford and a veteran of the Optimist Class. Kyle has sharpened his skills sailing aboard the family boat as well as by crewing in the Penguins with Jonathan Bartlett. Not a bad training ground!

The format for Sundays race was a junior skipper at the helm of club members boats.

Sailing with an up and coming junior is really rewarding. Kyle is already a very skillful sailor and most notably took care that his crew was comfortable and happy! That really made an impression on me as that ultimately is what keeps a crew together. Kyle also has that spark of a natural leader and a charismatic personality.
Kyle won the start at the pin end in spite of a larger yacht barging in from above the close hauled layline (in Kyles vernacular he owned the layline)! There was an adverse current at the start and light air which made being up to speed and on time quite impressive. I think Kyle might have "tapped out" the weather boat had not Big Al voiced some well placed concern!
What followed was hard work nursing the J40 upwind from puff to puff in a dying North Easterly. Susan Taylor offered guidance on climbing the ladder and stuffing the boat to windward whenever possible as is her practice. Miss Betsy did a yeomans job on genoa trim and easing to Kyle in the puffs and talking him up to the new course. Big Al, Chandlee, and Peter were on puff watch and weather prediction...Kyle was all concentration as we put a "horizon job" on the fleet including another Jboat that we owed time!

I hope to sail with Kyle again and can't help but compare this experience to crewing for Terry Hutchinson as a fourteen year old skipper. This is how it all starts!

Pictured prior to the start is Ron Peterson (Race Committee) aboard his Grand Banks 42. Thank you for coming out on a Holiday weekend Ron!

Rare Fourth of July

2009-07-06T08:07:00.000-07:00

Wife Susan Taylor and children Chandlee and Peter set sail Saturday morning the 4th in Harness Creek as guests of Al&Betsy Schreitmueller aboard their J40 "Lark". Al is not one to waste time hoisting sails so the main was up inside the creek! I followed the crew into the South River with the 29 Back Cove "Sweet Eld" and to my surprise we were greeted with a West-North Westerly of 12 to 15 knots....cool Canadian breeze on the Fourth? On the Chesapeake? I had to pinch myself.

Al made the conservative choice of a small kevlar blade which proved to be just right for the sail to Galesville. Everyone took turns steering and "Lark" romped down the bay easily making 7.5 knots with the pressure on the starboard beam.

After dropping the hook we all paddled and rowed in for the Sailing Club of the Chesapeake's "Big Kids/Little Kids" party where the decendents of Bill Heinz graciously hosted us for food and games. Hard to say which generation gets the most out of this event. Lot's of attendance of three generation sailing families.

Pictured are Peter Taylor& Susan Taylor sharing the the helm of Lark. Thank you Al& Betsy for a fabulous weekend!

Living by the Bay

2009-07-03T13:48:00.001-07:00

Sunrise about ten days after the summer solstice. What a great place to live!

Maine Builtdown Hull

2009-07-03T13:30:00.001-07:00

One genre of a Maine Built Lobster boat is the "Built-Down" hull. As explained to me this spring by Jarvis Newman, one of the primary advantages is that in this hull form there is room to recess the engine well down into the bottom of the boat allowing for a lower center of gravity. This contributes towards the sweet ride offered by these boats. I recall my first sea trial in a boat designed by Royal Lowell (a boat known as the Sisu 30). We were operating in a strong northerly breeze on a shallow estuary against an opposing current. Plain and simple ugly conditions. After running down wind for thirty five minutes we throttled back and turned the corner for the uphill climb against the wind an headed into the short/steep chop. The Sisu sliced through without any hint of slapping or pounding. Just as well behaved as you could imagine. From that day forward I have been convinced that these boats make great cruising platforms! Note the splash rails sloping upward as they approach the bow. Jarvis has no use for these but I have been convinced that they can actually increase the performance of a Down East Lobster Yacht....If you are a sailor giving consideration to a power boat give me a call!

29 Back Cove Sweet Eld....Summer Price Reduction

2009-07-03T06:16:00.000-07:00

New offering price of 169,900 puts "Sweet Eld" a lovely 29' Back Cove 29 about ten thousand dollars under her sisterships. The sellers have considered that this offset would more than compensate a Buyer from New England for the cost of deliver to the New England Coast.
Or a Buyer on the Chesapeake could apply the savings to pay the use tax plus the usual startup costs.

Sailor's will discover that this good looking Back Cove will "shrink the Bay" for them. From Annapolis St. Michaels becomes a day trip, Solomons and overnight, and Carter Creek Va. (Tides Inn?) a long weekend. You just plain see so much more!

"Sweet Eld" has been operated in fresh water out of Rochester, N.Y. until it was launched in brackish water this spring. The Yanmar is just recently serviced by Bay Shore Marine and is running like a top. The boat is clean throughout and tweaked from stem to stern by a life long sailor. The bow and stern thrusters will allow you in and out of the small undiscovered marinas that are part of the treasure that is the Chesapeake. "Sweet Eld" is highly recommended by this broker!

1985 Passport 40 "Thalias"

2009-07-02T13:33:00.001-07:00

"Thalias", a 1985 Passport 40 is now a new Central Listing of Crusader Yacht Sales. We look forward to assisting the owners in finding new "caretakers"!

Freedom 45 Sin'e

2009-06-30T09:20:00.000-07:00

I met with longtime friends and clients this morning in the Annpapolis Harbor aboard their 1988 Freedom 45 named Sin'e. Jake and Kay Mast have sailed the Chesapeake for years and purchased this boat in 2003 to facilitate coastal cruising which they have enjoyed since.
Today they signed a purchase agreement to sell their "baby" and headed off for one last cruise to New England. Plans call for surveys and sailing trials late July in their home port of Deltaville,Virginia. The broker will be pleased if this deal goes forward as the boat will have been on the market for eight months. Even so, at eight months we will be beating the average time on the market for a 45' cruising sailboat!

Here's wishing Jake and Kay a pleasant and safe cruise to the Vinyard!

Mystery Boat in Annapolis

2009-06-29T12:00:00.000-07:00

I just came across a fine looking boat at anchor here in Annapolis. The quality of build got my attention plus the fact that it has that look of a cruising boat that will sail upwind when called upon. This boat was built for a couple to cruise in comfort even if in colder climates.

It appears to have an inside steering station. I was initially unable to identify the boat but tracked it down back in my office. If you are interested in a boat of this genre, drop me an email and I will send you a link with the background/history of the design/build.

Passport 40 1985 Cutter

2009-06-29T10:16:00.000-07:00

Over the past weeks I have met with the owners of this very nice 1985 Passport 40 that they will be offering for sale in Annapolis this Fall after a final cruise to the Maine Coast. The Passport is a fine design/build that has served literally hundreds of crusing couples since the first boats were imported in the early eighties. They have a moderate draft, sail very effectively in a wide range of conditions and tremendous payload capacity to increse the vessels range.
This particular boat has the "Pullman to Port" layout and a well preserved yacht interior. There is a plethora of light grey canvass that looks "as new" and complements the new GRP light grey decks.
Inquiries are welcome!

C.E. Ryder Sea Sprite

2009-06-24T08:14:00.000-07:00

"Artful Dodger" is a lovely 30' Sea Sprite designed by Bill Luders (designer of the Twelve MeterAmerican Eagle) and built by Clark Ryder of Rhode Island in the 1980's. She has a fine spoon bow and full keel with a cut-away forefoot. Sloop rigged with Hall spars and a warm teak interior. These boats are known to be sea-kindly and capable of coastal cruising and more. Available for inspection on jack stands (the bottom looks good!) at Port Annapolis Marina.

Downeast Lobsteryachts and Eastbay 43

2009-06-23T12:32:00.000-07:00

Crusader Yacht Sales had the pleasure of hosting two very fine Downeast yachts at our Spring Open House. The green forty footer with a Flybridge was built in Brooklin,Me. under the guidance of Joel White. Recently she has undergone extensive restoration to put her in the category of a stylish and comfortable cruising boat. She has volume that alot of Downeast boats lack, offering tons of storage for cruising. Next to her is a Jarvis Newman 32 and Jarvis speaking at our Spring Open House. The 43 footer is a mint condition Eastbay with a custom designed interior. This Eastbay features an enclosed helm deck to provide for cruising in comfort even in hot/cold weather. All three boats are available for inspection this summer in the Annapolis/Oxford area.

Classic Yacht for Sale in Annapolis

2009-06-23T11:52:00.000-07:00

Built on the Chesapeake Bay to a design by then young Naval Architect, Olin Stephens in 1936 for Mr. James Lowe of Grand Rapids, Michigan, a member of the Chicago Yacht Club and the New York Yacht Club. The designer was charged with drawing the lines of a swift yacht capable of winning the Chicago to Mackinaw Race. She proved sucsessful and went on to be sailed by numerous prominent yachtsmen, including John F. Kennedy.
Pictured at the Annapolis Boat Show in October of 2008. Currently available for a new caretaker!

Back Cove 29 2007 "Sweet Eld" Freshwater Boat

2009-06-23T08:25:00.000-07:00

Due to the downturn in the economy, we have some very nice offerings at Crusader Yacht Sales that normally would be "long sold".

One is a "sailor's" boat built by Back Cove and affiliate of Sabre Yachts. "Sweet Eld" has been a freshwater boat from its point of launch until delivered to Annapolis this spring in the interest of facilitating a sale. Owned by a sailor and tinkerer "Sweet Eld" has been kept in top flight condition and with numerous upgrades and improvements to create a comfy cruising platform.

With her bow and stern thrusters she is highly maneuverable and offers reasonable fuel economy at an eighteen to 21 knot cruise. This is a highly recommended offering! Come take a trest ride at Port Annapolis Marina (slip is avaiable with boat) and make the sellers an offer to purchase! Photo is of "Sweet Eld" running on the Severn River this spring.

Hylas 44

2009-06-22T14:21:00.000-07:00

My most recent yacht sale took me to Oriental,N.C. on behalf of buyers Burt and Prudence Preston of Mansfield, Ohio. I met the Prestons in the time frame of the Annapolis Boat Show of 2008 when they were initiating their search for a "six months of the year" boat. Prior to making an offer on the Hylas we inspected numerous boats such as an Oyster 43, Cambria 44/46, and the Taswell 43 from Newport,R.I. to North Carolina. The Preston's were careful and rigorous inspectors of boats and by the time we found the Hylas they had developed a very efficient system organised to look through a prospective boat! The upside of this type of preliminary inspection is fewer surprises on survey day.....

Queen Long Marine is the builder of record, the majority of the 44's having been built for the Caribbean Charter Trades. We were fortunate to track down a boat that was for sale by her original owner and never chartered. The Preston's liked the fact that the hull was hand laid without the use of core materials. Decks are reported to be foam rather than wood cored. The accessibility to the boats systems is excellent, the over all fit and finish is pleasing given a production boat, and the moderate displacement is in contrast with the full-keel cruising boats. Sure enough a sea trial on the Neuse River in 17 knots true indicated that this boat sails extremely well given the genre of a center-cockpit cruising platform. The lines were drawn by Argentinian German Frers and to my eye could easily have come from the S&S offices on Madison Avenue...

I am confident that the Prestons have made a good choice and wish them all the best in their delivery of the boat to Lake Erie, its home for the time being.