Sparkman & Stephens 55 Custom ketch 1973

Introducing the 1973 Sparkman & Stephens 55 Custom Ketch, SOUTHERLY – a classic aluminum centerboard ketch that combines a storied heritage with modern upgrades and exceptional shallow-draft adaptability. Originally commissioned for a prominent member of the New York Yacht Club, her half-model proudly displayed in the renowned Model Room speaks to her unique pedigree. Currently owned by a former Commodore of the Royal Ocean Racing Club, she now sails under the Royal Irish Yacht Club ensign. With her elegant lines, ketch rig, and innovative lifting keel, SOUTHERLY stands as a quintessential modern classic. Crafted by Paul E. Luke to a Sparkman & Stephens design, she showcases a perfect blend of heritage, offshore capabilities, and cruising comfort. The lifting keel enhances her versatility, granting access to close-to-shore anchorages, inlets, and beaches that many comparable yachts cannot reach. Today, she is a well-maintained and capable cruising yacht, featuring notable recent upgrades including a new Yanmar engine installed in 2017, updated electronics and sails in 2021, new standing rigging in 2022/23, significant brightwork maintenance in 2024, and epoxy-sealed hardwood deck trim in 2026. Her design's success has been highlighted by Gary Jobson in his book, 'An American Sailing Story' (2011), where he praised her balanced lines and performance after sailing her with his family. SOUTHERLY remains a swift and capable passage maker, exuding the warmth, craftsmanship, and style expected of a classic gentleman's yacht. With extensive cruising in Europe and the Caribbean over the past two decades, she consistently garners admiration both under sail and at the dock. Ideal for bluewater cruising and transoceanic voyages, she effortlessly island-hops the Caribbean, with the added advantage of shoal anchorage access due to her lifting keel. Key features include an aluminum hull, a Sparkman & Stephens design, USA-built with no tariff implications, a versatile ketch rig, and recent electronic upgrades.

We offer the details and availability of listings in good faith, however, Boatzon is not liable for the quality, description, or pricing of this listing. This vessel is offered subject to prior sale, price change, or withdrawal without notice. If you have concerns about the information, images, or accuracy contained in this listing, you can report this listing by emailing us at Support@Boatzon.com