1939 Trumpy Trumpy Fantail Houseboat
$1,695,000
Boat in Jacksonville, FL 32202 US
Built in 1939
Trumpy Fantail Houseboat
2 Engines (2x Detroit Diesel)
91 feet
Diesel
Wooden
INNISFAIL, Contract #242, is one of the few remaining Mathis-Trumpy fantail yachts built. Commissioned by Joseph M. Cudahy of Illinois for US East Coast cruising, she was the second Mathis Trumpy he had commissioned. Built as INNISFAIL, she was later named YP-354 in 1942 by the US Navy as she was commandeered for service during World War II. During her time with the Navy, she had two 20mm cannons mounted on her decks and a depth charge rack on her stern. She served her country in this manner for 5 years before being refit in 1947 by the US Government. She continued to serve the US Government and was utilized by US Presidents, foreign dignitaries, and heads of state until 1965, at which point she returned to private ownership. A comprehensive 2007 refit restored her original name. She has been well cared for inside and out and holds a current USCG Inspected Vessel Certificate for 65 Passengers.
Key Features
- Classic American fantail motor yacht
- World War II Veteran and used by numerous U.S. Presidents
- Large aft deck and enormous salon
- 3 Owner and guest ensuite staterooms
- Large crew accommodations with 3 cabins
- USCG-Inspected for 65 passengers
- Beautiful condition throughout
INNISFAIL features John Trumpy’s highly desirable “galley-up” arrangement. The wheelhouse is forward, followed by a full-beam galley with pass-through access to the portside deck, a spacious salon, and a beautiful aft fantail deck that can be open to the breeze or enclosed in inclement weather.
Forward on the lower level is crew accommodations for five, followed by the engine room, a full-beam master stateroom, a midship guest twin, and an aft VIP twin located beneath the fantail. All guest staterooms are ensuite.
- Formica countertops
- GE 5-Burner stainless glass-top range
- Overhead extraction fan
- Whirlpool stainless convection microwave (2022)
- Stainless refrigerator (2022)
- Coffee maker
- Toaster
- Large double stainless sink with pull-out spray faucet
- Parquet sole
- Overhead lighting
- 2 x 15” Round ports
- Large windows allowing generous natural light
- Half Dutch door/pass-through to portside deck
- Excellent storage for foodstuffs, plates, glasses, etc.
- Access to the wheelhouse via companionway forward
- Access to the salon via swing door
- Access to the starboard deck via companionway door
- Samsung 40” TV (2024)
- Carpeted sole
- 12 x Windows with shades
- Painted headliner with varnished solid-wood beam laths
- 2 x Custom barrel chairs
- 2 x Aluminum portlight side tables
- Table lamp
- Extra-long sofa to port
- Large corner settee with cocktail table forward
- Buffet chest with generous storage
- A/C controls
- Companionway to owner and guest staterooms
INNISFAIL features a full-beam owner’s stateroom located amidships. A previous owner modified the original arrangement of separate twin berths to a more contemporary offset queen berth layout, while maintaining the vessel’s traditional character. The passageway just outside the master stateroom contains a linen locker, fire hydrant station, and 120V remote electrical panels.
- Offset queen berth
- Bureau with eight drawers
- Bureau with four drawers
- Full-length mirror on entryway door
- Cedar-lined hanging locker
- Large storage area beneath stairwell providing generous space for larger items
- A/C control and air vent
- 2 x Opening portlights with curtains
- Painted overhead
- Painted bulkheads
- Carpeted sole
- LED overhead lighting
- Samsung TV mounted on aft bulkhead (2024)
- Smoke and carbon monoxide detector
- Marble-tiled stall shower
- Porcelain pedestal wash basin
- Tecma electric head
- Corner cabinet
- Opening portlight
- Painted overhead
- Painted bulkheads
- Marble- tiled sole
- Towel racks
- Exhaust fan
INNISFAIL features a generous full-beam aft VIP guest stateroom, maintained in its original configuration, offering two large fore-and-aft berths to port and starboard, each with drawer storage below. A centerline chest of drawers and two large hanging lockers complete the stateroom.
- 2 x Twin oversized lower berths with 4 storage drawers beneath
- Centerline chest of drawers
- 2 x Cedar-lined hanging lockers
- 2 x Reading lamps
- 4 x Opening portlights with curtains
- Smoke and carbon monoxide detector
- Wall-to-wall carpet
- Air conditioning controls
- Painted overhead
- Painted bulkheads
- Large marble-tiled shower
- Porcelain wash basin
- Marble-tiled flooring
- Tecma electric head
- Large mirror
- Towel rack
- Exhaust fan
- Opening portlight with curtains
- Direct access to hallway or adjacent cabin
- Painted overhead
- Painted bulkhead
3-Door Locker with generous outboard storage
- 2 x Fore-and-aft twin berths with large storage drawers beneath
- Cedar-lined hanging locker
- A/C control and air vent
- 2 x 4-Drawer bureaus
- Carpeted sole
- Painted overhead
- Painted bulkheads
- Opening portlight with curtain
- Marble-tiled shower
- Marble-tiled sole
- Exhaust fan
- Mirror
- Tecma electric head
- Porcelain wash basin
- Opening portlight with curtain
- Painted overhead
- Painted bulkheads
Located forward and accessed via a companionway ladder from the pilothouse, this area includes a forward captain’s cabin with a centerline full berth, a nicely sized settee with laundry area, and two over-under twin crew cabins to port and starboard, along with direct access to the engine room. The space is finished with white paneling with teak trim.
- Centerline full berth with drawer storage beneath
- Desk/office area
- Bookshelves
- 2 x Reading lamps
- Overhead lighting
- Hanging locker
- 6 x Opening portlights
- Painted overhead
- Painted bulkheads
- Mirror
- Carpeted sole
- Epson printer/copier/fax
- Garmin repeater – (Not currently connected to GPS antenna)
- Upper and lower single berths
- Opening portlight
- Hanging locker with mirror on inside of door
- Multiple shelves
- Teak-and-holly sole
- Generous drawer storage beneath berths
- 2 x Reading lamps
- Upper and lower single berths
- Opening portlight
- Toiletry cabinet
- Hanging locker with mirror on inside of door
- Teak-and-holly sole
- 2 x Reading lamps
- Tecma electric head
- Stainless wash basin
- Stall shower
- Towel bars
- Overhead light and fan assembly
- Teak-and-holly sole
- Teak-and-holly sole
- LG washer and dryer
- Varnished dinette table with seating for five (5)
- Bookshelf
- Stairs to pilothouse
- GE chiller/refrigerator
- 2 x Opening portlights
- Flat-screen TV
- Sony stereo system
- Overhead locker storage
- 4-Person Winslow valise life raft (Repacked 2/2026, valid for 3 years)
- ACR EPIRB in ditch bag
- Vacuum
- Locker for cleaning supplies
- Iron and ironing board
- 2” Mahogany plank-on-oak frame hull, screw-fastened
- 3x Steel bulkheads (anchor locker, forward engine room, aft engine room)
- Varnished teak-covered side decks, bow, and fantail
- Assorted fenders and dock lines
- Assorted life jackets and all USCG-required safety gear, placards, and lighting
- 3 x throwable ring buoys
- Full-beam transom upholstered bench seat
- Teak dining table
- 6 x Teak dining chairs with cushions
- 2 x Teak aft deck dry bars
- Aft deck KitchenAid refrigerator and freezer drawers
- Aft deck wine chiller
- Aft deck Scotsman ice maker
- Full aft deck Isinglass enclosure with zippered openings
- Port and starboard aft deck wing doors
- Teak rails running the full length of the vessel with double intermediate lifelines
- Folding signal mast with steaming and anchor lights
- 4 x Hand-crank tender davits
- 10’ Wooden dinghy with oars
- 12’ Wooden dinghy with oars and 6hp Mercury outboard
- 2 x Cowl vents
- Deck box
- Coolers
- Marquipt boarding stairs (8 steps)
- Side boarding ladder
- Burgee staff socket
- Anchor davit
- 2 x Danforth-type anchors, approximately 70lbs and 60lbs
- Ideal windlass with foot switch
- Ventilation hatch to crew quarters
- Forward upholstered bench seat
- 2 x Deck boxes for cleaning supplies
- Bow shade
- Freshwater wash spigot, portside amidships
- Starboard-side stairs to flybridge and tender deck
- Air draft:
- 30’ - Mast up
- 27’ - Mast down, antennas up
- 21’ - Mast down, antennas down, top of radar
- 2 x Detroit Diesel 228hp 8V71N engines (Approximately 10,050hrs 5/2026)
- 2 x Allison MH30 2.97:1 transmissions
- 1996 Northern Lights 30kW 1800 RPM generator (8,322hrs 5/2026)
- 1992 Northern Lights 27kW 1800 RPM generator (13,806hrs 5/2026)
- 2 x 8D Engine starting batteries
- 2 x 8D Generator starting and house batteries
- 2 x ProMariner ProNautic 12-50P chargers (one for house bank, one for starting bank)
- Oil change pump for main engines and transmissions
- Dual Racor fuel filters for both generators
- Dual Racor fuel filters for both main engines
- 2 x Dometic 48,000 BTU chillers with various air handlers throughout the yacht
- 2 x 20-Gal water heaters
- Metabo HPT 135 PSI air compressor
- Marathon freshwater pump with accumulator tank
- Manual Hynautic hydraulic steering
- 2 x New main engine through hulls (2026)
- New port generator through hull (2026)
- 50-Amp shore power service inlets, port and starboard
- Binnacle compass
- Air whistle
- Air horn
- Searchlight
- 2 x Double-lever controls
- 2 x Engine gauge clusters
- American Bow Thruster control
- Raytheon ST60+ rudder angle indicator
- Raymarine ST40 digital depth sounder
- 2 x ICOM IC-M510 VHF radios with CommandMic units (2025)
- Simrad AP28 autopilot
- Simrad QS80 autopilot dodge lever
- Simrad EVO12 radar/chartplotter
- 2 x Engine room cameras tied into Simrad system
- Aft deck camera tied into Simrad system
- ACR AIS Transceiver
- 8-Spoke ship’s wheel with stainless rim
- 12-Volt panel
- 120-Volt panel
- Fusion stereo
- Overhead lighting
- Engine shutdown control box
- Framed Certificates of Inspection on aft bulkhead
- Chelsea clock and barometer set
- AC controls
- Upholstered bench seat with two chart drawers beneath
- Bilge pump control panel
- Wipers and controls
- Teak parquet sole
INNISFAIL is unquestionably one of the most significant and recognizable classic American yachts presently offered for sale and represents an exceptionally rare opportunity to acquire a true piece of yachting history. A highly desirable, larger pre-war Trumpy, she is beautifully maintained, thoughtfully updated, and well-equipped for both private enjoyment and respectful commercial use. Her timeless lines, graceful proportions, and expansive crew accommodations provide a level of comfort and practicality seldom found in yachts of her era.
Commissioned in 1939, INNISFAIL has enjoyed a remarkable and storied history, having hosted numerous United States Presidents (Roosevelt, Truman, Eisenhower, Kennedy, Nixon, Ford, Reagan, and Clinton), foreign dignitaries, and heads of state throughout her lifetime. During World War II, she proudly served the United States Navy as patrol vessel YP-345, outfitted with twin 20mm cannons on deck and depth charge racks mounted aft. Her survival through wartime service and the many chapters of her distinguished career only further solidify her standing as one of the truly iconic surviving American motor yachts.
The current owners have proven to be exceptional stewards, cruising her extensively from the Florida Keys to Nantucket while maintaining her to a very high standard. Although operated solely as a private yacht, the owners have elected to preserve her USCG Inspected Passenger Vessel certification for up to 65 passengers, a designation requiring rigorous annual and biennial inspections and surveys.
INNISFAIL presents exceptionally well throughout, and discerning buyers who step aboard will immediately appreciate the pedigree, craftsmanship, and extraordinary level of care she represents. Few yachts afloat today can offer such a compelling combination of provenance, capability, and enduring elegance.
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 |
|---|---|---|
| 5/30/26 | Initial price | $1,695,000 |
Videos from Worth Avenue Yachts - Newport RI on this 1939 Trumpy Trumpy Fantail Houseboat
1939 Trumpy Trumpy Fantail Houseboat Video Tours
Overview from around the web 1939 Trumpy Trumpy Fantail Houseboat
Customers rave about the charm and elegance of the 1939 Trumpy Trumpy Fantail Houseboat
Many appreciate its classic design, noting the beautiful craftsmanship and the nostalgic feel it brings to their boating experience. The spacious deck area is frequently highlighted, offering plenty of room for relaxation and entertaining friends and family. Users also praise the comfort of the interior with its vintage decor that evokes a sense of nostalgia, while still providing modern amenities that ensure a pleasant stay on the water. The well-appointed kitchen and cozy living spaces make it easy for families to enjoy extended trips, while the unique shape and style of the Fantail design draw admiration and compliments wherever it docks. Additionally, customers remark on the allure of cruising in such a storied vessel, often recalling the history and significance of the Trumpy brand in the world of yachts. The overall experience of owning or renting this iconic houseboat is frequently described as both luxurious and unforgettable, making it a standout choice for those seeking a unique boating adventure.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
Pros
Classic Design: The Trumpy Fantail Houseboat boasts an elegant and timeless design that reflects craftsmanship from the late 1930s. With its distinctive fantail shape, it is a standout vessel on the water.
Spacious Interior: Known for its generous living spaces, this houseboat offers comfortable accommodations. The well-thought-out layout provides an inviting environment for relaxation and entertainment.
Quality Craftsmanship: Built by the renowned Trumpy Yachts, the houseboat is constructed with high-quality wood and materials, ensuring durability and longevity. The attention to detail in the woodworking is exemplary.
Heritage and Collectibility: Owning a piece of maritime history, this houseboat is not just a vessel; it's also a collectible. Its rarity and heritage appeal to enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Great for Entertaining: The spacious decks provide ample outdoor space for entertaining guests, enjoying sunsets, or simply soaking in the beauty of the waters.
Unique Experience: Living on or cruising with a Trumpy Fantail offers a unique lifestyle experience, blending adventure with comfort and style.
Cons
Maintenance Requirements: As a vintage vessel, the Trumpy Fantail requires regular maintenance to preserve its condition. Older boats may involve higher upkeep costs compared to newer models.
Limited Modern Amenities: While charming, the houseboat may lack some modern conveniences and technology found in contemporary vessels, which can affect comfort and ease of use.
Fuel Efficiency: Depending on its engines and upkeep, this model may not be as fuel-efficient as more modern boats, which can lead to increased operating costs over time.
Not Ideal for Speed: Designed for elegance and comfort rather than speed, the Trumpy Fantail may not be suitable for those looking for a fast-paced boating experience.
Storage Constraints: While spacious, the interior and deck space may not provide the extensive storage options that some boaters require, especially for long-term living.
Made For
The 1939 Trumpy Trumpy Fantail Houseboat is ideal for enthusiasts of classic maritime craftsmanship and those who appreciate the charm of vintage vessels. Perfect for collectors, it caters to individuals who admire the timeless design and luxurious features that define this historic houseboat. Whether you seek a unique weekend getaway on the water, a stylish entertaining space, or simply a floating retreat to enjoy nature, this elegant houseboat offers the ideal blend of nostalgia and lavish comfort. It appeals to families looking for memorable experiences, couples seeking romance on the water, and adventurers ready to explore hidden coves and serene lakesides. With its striking aesthetic and spacious layout, the Trumpy Fantail is designed for those who value the art of leisure afloat.
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Contact Worth Avenue Yachts - Newport RI about 1939 Trumpy Trumpy Fantail Houseboat
55 America's Cup Avenue, Newport, RI, 02840
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