2014 Custom Aluminum Expedition
$650,000
Boat in Deltaville, VA 23043 US
Aluminum Expedition
1 Engine (Volvo)
53 feet
Diesel
Aluminum
Malabar is the most meticulously thought out design on the market today with safety as the top priority for every step of the build. Some build features include all welds below the waterline dye tested, watertight bulkheads, an aluminum double bottom, a sea chest, full hardtop and dodger, an oversized NACA foil lifting keel, and numerous other special custom features. Jimmy Cornell has traveled 200,000 miles on aluminum lifting keelers because he considers the formula to be the safest for voyaging with the risk of broaching being virtually eliminated. At the same time, Malabar's sailing performance is far superior to ordinary cruising boats with a special emphasis on the close-windedness provided by her oversized lifting keel, the large (560-square foot) Solent working jib which is self-tacking via a traveler mounted on a radiused bridge allowing a very tight 11 degrees sheeting angle, and which can be flown to 35 knots without shortening sail.
Malabar's design is meant to be simple, sustainable and safe. With nearly 1,000 gal water capacity the need for a complex water maker is eliminated. The astonishing 2,354 amp hour battery banks with all new AGM batteries and inverter-chargers are charged by a massive solar array. The diesel-fired hot water central heating will keep the whole boat warm including the cockpit. The aft deck provides shelter from a following sea and a good working area. All the lifelines are 40 inches high and the Treadmaster deck covering and the many handholds provide unmatched safe transit on deck.
The cabin below has a traditional Herreshoff finish with Brazilian Jatoba cherry trim throughout and 3/4 inch solid Brazilian Cumaru teak soles. All windows and deck hatches have custom joinery with the Jatoba screens on the hatches being hinged. The raised dinette has panoramic views through the thick lexan windows. The galley is well thought out and secure with massive keel cooled and overly insulated refrigeration and freezer. The entire boat has sprayed-on closed cell polyurethane foam insulation to provide remarkable acoustic isolation from the sound of wind and waves as well as additional floatation. Insulation for the refrigeration is up to a foot thick to ensure minimal energy consumption. Even the shower has a mixer valve which redirects to a water tank the incoming water before it reaches the desired temperature and then prevents the possibility of scalding by the 165 degree water being supplied from the engine's heat exchanger.
There is a workshop forward with workbench and drill press; an aft technical lazarette providing easy access to several systems including the washer/dryer; and much more...
There is a a photo gallery of over 300 photos is available upon request outlining all the systems, safety features and additional information. Attempting to build a similar boat today would take nearly a decade as did Malabar, cost between $2M and $3M USD and finding a yard willing to dye test all welds below the waterline, and execute the numerous custom features which Malabar incorporates would be almost impossible even within budget.
The owner had Malabar built to go voyaging with his wife. Her illness and eventual death after 58 years of marriage brought the owner's voyaging plans to a permanent end. The vessel has been routinely maintained, systems tested and has been fully commissioned and tested and put back to rest in 2022. The Volvo engine has just only 75 hours. The owner's care giving for his wife and her eventual loss is the reason Malabar is being offered for the next owner to splash, customize and set sail for any destination in the world.
- --pin hole-proof shaft log enclosure (no leaks from a very tricky area to weld)
- --stainless-steel shaft collar (preventsshaftloss; warns of impeding PSS shaft seal failure)
- --transducer cofferdam (protects againstflooding caused bytransducer failure, esp. protruding sonar sensor)--double bottom system (virtually eliminates possibility ofbreaching; addssubstantialfloatation)
- --raised after-deck (addsextensiveusablevolumesaft; adds stability; protects cockpit)
- --hingeless sliding pocket door (unbreachable)
- --raised aluminum hatch coamings (reduces possibility of leaks below with green water on deck)
- --14 dorades with tapping blocks (great ventilation; no mildew; no leaks)
- --Treadmaster deck covering (the surest, most durablefooting)
- --all 340 lineal feet below WL dye tested for pin holes;(detectedall pinholes; enabledproper repair)
- --40" high triple lifeline system (sharply reduces risk offallingoverboard)
- --centerline third rudder (restores steerageway at anchor or at the dockunder power)
- --permanentaluminum hard windshield (highly prized by experienced cruisers)--aluminum hardtop (enablesrugged, full cockpit enclosurewith multiple hand-holds; supports five large solar panels)
- --885-gallonswater (eliminates dependency on high-maintenance watermaker;enableswater ballast system)--water ballast system (up to 8 degree reduction in heel; greater comfort; carrying more sail longer equals higher speeds)
- --470-gallon fuel tankage(up to 2,800 mile range)--day tank system (eliminatesairlocks andpossibility of dirty fuel reaching engine filter)
- --2,364AH at 12 volts battery bankstwelve Trojan SAGM 6 v. 394 AH AGM batts new in 2021: 12 v bank w/788 amphours; two 24 v banks w/788 amp hours(speaks for itself...)
- --312 gallons per minute bilge pumpingsystem (overkill but available if ever needed)--Jatoba and Cumarru solid hardwoods (gorgeous...)
- --7'-5" headroom (great feeling of spaciousnesswhich is priceless)
- --refrigeration insulation thickness ranging to 9 and 12 inches (speaks for itself...)
- --keel tank with internalrefrigerationheat exchangers (no water pumps; novulnerableexternal heat exchanger shoes)
- --library settee with bookshelves (adds warmth and gravitas)
- --10'-3" long passageway galley (the preferred sea-going galley location)
- --forepeak workshop accessed through watertight door (a workshop is indispensable)
- --technical lazarette with watertight door (modeststanding room access toextensivestowage and important systems)--very largehigh aspect11'-3" draftkeeldownlifting keel(dramaticperformanceupgrade for an already weatherly boat)--a real ship's enclosed engine room with standing headroomand two walk-in doors(priceless..
- --emergency tiller fitted below decks: control lines led to protected helm (safelymanagingpossible rudder failure)
- -55---telescopingstern anchor channel and roller (gives stern anchor wide clearance fromhull)--built-in provision for emergency power via OB and its bracket (no scrambling for solution in an emergency)--33-degree companionway ladder with bannister-like 1'-1/4" O.D, stainless-steel handrail (secure transit)--transit between skirt and deck via staircase-like stepswithbannister-likestainless-steel handrail(safest transit possible)--ballastenclosurespressure tested
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.
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 2/21/26 | Initial price | $650,000 |
Overview from around the web 2014 Custom Aluminum Expedition
Customers praise the 2014 Custom Aluminum Expedition for its exceptional durability and robust construction, making it ideal for challenging environments
Many highlight its spacious and well-designed layout, which offers ample room for gear and comfortable living quarters during extended trips. The boat’s fuel efficiency and powerful performance receive positive remarks, ensuring reliable travel over long distances. Users also appreciate the custom features tailored to expedition needs, such as enhanced storage solutions and advanced navigation systems. Overall, owners commend the vessel for its reliability, versatility, and ability to handle demanding expedition conditions with ease.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 2014 Custom Aluminum Expedition offers a range of advantages and some considerations to keep in mind:
Pros
Durability: Built with heavy-duty aluminum, this expedition boat is highly resistant to corrosion and damage, making it ideal for rugged conditions.
Customizable Design: Being a custom build, it can be tailored to specific expedition needs, including layout, storage, and equipment.
Stability and Performance: The hull design provides excellent stability and handling in various water conditions, ensuring a smooth and safe ride.
Low Maintenance: Aluminum construction requires less upkeep compared to traditional materials like wood or fiberglass.
Lightweight: The aluminum frame contributes to a lighter overall weight, improving fuel efficiency and ease of transport.
Cons
Noise Levels: Aluminum boats can be noisier on the water compared to fiberglass, which may be a consideration for some users.
Cost: Custom builds often come at a higher price point due to the specialized design and materials.
Comfort: Depending on the customization, aluminum boats may offer less insulation against temperature and noise, which could affect comfort during extended trips.
Resale Value: Custom boats may have a narrower market, potentially impacting resale opportunities.
Made For
The 2014 Custom Aluminum Expedition is designed for adventurous boaters seeking a durable, high-performance vessel built to handle challenging conditions. Ideal for explorers, fishermen, and outdoor enthusiasts, this boat offers exceptional strength and versatility for extended trips in rugged environments. Its custom aluminum construction ensures reliability and longevity, making it perfect for those who demand both functionality and resilience on the water.
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Address
Boat Location
Contact Calm Seas Yachting
290 174th St, Unit 1910, Sunny Isles, FL, 33160







































































