1963 Rhodes 50 Cutter Boat in Port Townsend, WA 98368 US
Built in 1963
50 Cutter
1 Engine (Westerbeke)
50 feet
Diesel
Wooden
Rowena is a true classic sailing yacht designed by renowned American naval architect Philip L. Rhodes. A sister ship to the celebrated Thunderhead, Rowena combines timeless beauty with the sure-footed, sea-kindly sailing qualities for which Rhodes designs are known. Built by the esteemed Lester Stone Yard of Alameda, California, Rowena is constructed of solid mahogany planking; bronze fastened throughout and reflects the highest standards of traditional American yacht building. Her comfortable, open interior plan is well suited to extended cruising, while her proven offshore pedigree inspires confidence in both heavy weather and light airs.
With well over 100,000 ocean miles beneath her keel, Rowena has demonstrated herself to be a fast, safe, and remarkably comfortable cruising yacht. Her deep cockpit, protected by a substantial hard dodger, is thoughtfully arranged for shorthanded sailing. Large primary winches, lazy jacks for the mainsail, and a Profurl roller-furling genoa make sail handling straightforward and efficient. Her clipper bow, cutter rig, and graceful sheer continue to turn heads under sail and at the dock alike.
Over six decades, Rowena has benefited from a succession of dedicated owners who sailed her extensively and maintained her with exceptional care. Her distinguished history includes the Transpac races of 1965, 1969, 1971, and 1973; a second-place finish in the 1991 San Diego to Maui Race; and third place in the Ocean I Division of the 1992 Master Mariners Regatta.
In recent years, Rowena has continued to fulfill her purpose as a serious cruising yacht, exploring the waters of British Columbia, Southeast Alaska, Haida Gwaii, and the rugged outer coast of Vancouver Island. She is not a museum piece, but a proven cruising vessel that remains active, capable, and ready for her next adventure. This is a rare opportunity to acquire a classic yacht of exceptional pedigree, enduring beauty, and demonstrated capability. Rowena is ready to carry her next steward on a voyage of their own.
"Come spend the day in beautiful Port Townsend and see stunning Rowena in Point Hudson Marina"
Refit and Maintenance Highlights
2026 Hull & Structure
- Removed and replaced silicone bronze fasteners in middle 1/3 of hull. (Upsized to #18), (2/3 + of hull refastened)
- New Bottom paint 2+ coats Sea Hawk Cukote
- Topsides prepped and 2 coats EZ Poxy paint
- Varnish brightwork
- Cabin top and interior of doghouse repainted
2025 Sails & Rig
- New mainsail - Leitch & McBride
- New Tides Track System
- New Genoa - Leitch & McBride
- New staysail - Leitch & McBride
2024 Hull & Systems
- Removed and replaced silicone bronze fasteners in bottom 1/3 hull. (Upsized to #18)
- Lazy Jacks installed
- Victron Charging system upgrade
- Balmar 100-amp alternator with regulator
- Upgraded wiring throughout
Interior Arrangement
With her beam of 13 ft 0 in / 3.96 m, Rowena offers a unique and highly functional interior layout with two companionway entrances, providing exceptional access, ventilation, and ease of movement aboard.
The primary companionway descends from the cockpit beneath the protection of the hard dodger into a spacious main saloon. A large U-shaped settee provides comfortable seating for entertaining and converts to generous sleeping accommodations, with additional quarter berths outboard. The saloon is bright, welcoming, and ideal for relaxing at anchor or underway.
Aft of the saloon, convenient access is provided to the Westerbeke auxiliary engine and associated systems, making routine inspection and maintenance straightforward.
A second companionway, located to starboard amidships, descends via a distinctive spiral staircase directly into the galley. The galley is arranged for practical use at sea, while opposite to port is a dedicated navigation station featuring a large chart table, pilot seat, and navigation electronics.
Moving forward from the saloon, the head is located to port. Moving forward a Dickinson diesel heater keeps the interior warm and comfortable. Beyond lies the owner's stateroom, featuring a comfortable Pullman-style double berth to port with overhead skylight, abundant storage, shelving, and excellent natural light. To starboard are a large hanging locker and a comfortable settee, creating a private retreat for reading, relaxing, or dressing.
Forward, a large doorway provides access to the forepeak, which serves as sail and rode storage and is accessible both from below and through a large deck hatch.
Throughout the vessel, painted white bulkheads and cabinetry create a bright and open atmosphere, complemented by varnished teak and mahogany trim and traditional teak-and-holly sole boards. The result is a warm, inviting interior equally suited to extended cruising by a couple or comfortable voyaging with family and friends.
Main Cabin and Galley
- Gimbaled Heritage 3 propane burner and oven
- Pressure water and saltwater manual foot pump
- Stainless steel fridge and freezer - Isotherm (Indel Webasto)
- Stainless steel sink and pressure mixer tap
- Lots of storage
Master Cabin
- Double Pullman berth over locker and drawer stowage to port
- Large locker to stbd
- Port lights to sides and fwd and electric lights
- Shelving forward
- Skylight over head
Navigation and Electronics
- IC-M424 VHF radio with digital selective calling and remote full function mike/speaker programmed VHF with MMSI
- Simrad FC40 Fluxgate compass
- Simrad NSS7 Row 6.4-inch Touch screen MFD
- Simrad 4G broadband radar
- Simrad B744-VL Echo sounder
- Vesper Cortex AIS receiver and transmitter
- Simrad NSS12 Row 12.1-inch Touch screen MFD
- Simrad IS20 wind system
- Simrad Auto Pilot with Simrad AP44 autopilot controller and NAC3 brain integrated to NMEA2000
- Signet depth sounder and speed log
- PROWatt SW 2000 Inverter
Deck and Hull Layout
A length overall of 48 ft 9 in / 14.86 m and waterline 37 ft 0 in / 11.28 m, she is constructed of Carvel mahogany on oak frames and bronze fasteners and teak decks. Beginning aft, a radar mast is mounted on the starboard quarter, keeping the cockpit clear while providing an ideal platform for radar, antennas, and additional equipment. The deep cockpit is centered around a traditional destroyer-style helm wheel mounted on a substantial binnacle equipped with a steering compass, navigation repeaters, and excellent sightlines forward.
Seating is provided on both port and starboard cockpit lazarettes, with a folding cockpit table positioned forward of the helm. Large chromed Barient primary and secondary winches mounted on outboard pedestals provide powerful and efficient sail handling. A handsome bronze access plate in the cockpit sole allows direct access to the engine, transmission, and shaft coupling for inspection and maintenance.
A defining feature of Rowena is her substantial hard dodger, which provides outstanding protection from wind, rain, and spray. Beneath the dodger, crew enjoys a comfortable sheltered seating area with excellent visibility through large windows. Just aft of the companionway, this protected space creates a natural gathering place while underway or at anchor.
Wide teak side decks and substantial handholds make movement forward secure and confidence-inspiring in all conditions. The mainsheet traveler is mounted atop the hard dodger, keeping the cockpit clear while providing efficient mainsail control.
At the mast, chromed Barient winches handle the mainsail and headsail halyards. Lazy jacks simplify mainsail handling, while three-point jiffy reefing allows quick sail reduction when conditions require. Forward of the mast a beautifully crafted teak propane locker is mounted on the coach roof.
At the bow a Profurl roller-furling genoa can be controlled from the cockpit, making Rowena particularly well suited for short-handed cruising. Her cutter rig includes a hanked-on staysail set on an inner forestay secured with a robust pelican hook.
Rigging and Sails
Masthead cutter rig (c 62 ft above WL)
- Varnished Sitka spruce keel stepped mast and spars
- Stainless steel 1/19 standing rigging, swaged terminals and turnbuckles new in 2013
- Manual backstay adjuster
- Running back stays
- Adjustable topping lift
- Roller furling 120 percent high cut Genoa by Leitch & McBride 2025
- Mainsail by Leitch & McBride fully battened with fast track hoisting system 2025
- Staysail by Leitch & McBride 2025
- High cut Yankee (fair - good condition).
- Storm Staysail
- Tri-sail
Mechanical and Electrical Systems
- Westerbeke 58 HP 4 cyl fresh water-cooled diesel engine
- Dual Racor water separators
- 12 V electrical system
- Main circuit breaker panel and master selector switch
- Sterling 120 battery charger
- Galvanic isolator
- 120-volt Shore power
- Balmar 100 Amp alternator
- Balmar ARS-5-H regulator
- SunPower & Sealeaf solar installations with two MPPT controller 420 watts (total)
- Victron charge controllers
- Victron BMV-712 battery monitor
- Three Rolls AGM S12-230AGM-RE house batteries
- Victron Orion Smart DC/DC charger for house and start battery
- GFCI Protected breakers
- Installed Starlink
- Ideal electric windlass with wireless windlass controller
- 365 feet of 3/8 chain rode on a 100lb spade primary anchor
- Wheel steering with Edson cable and quadrant
Safety and Miscellaneous
- Spreader lights
- Achilles dinghy (9'6")
- Torqeedo electric motor
- Life Raft Revere Regatta 6 person, Serviced 6-2026
- IridiumGo
- First aid kit
- Swim ladder
- Binnacle cover
- Lee cloths for bunks
- USCG requires safety equipment
- Fire suppression Portable type extinguisher in each cabin
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 |
|---|---|---|
| 9/15/26 | Initial price | $175,000 |
Overview from around the web 1963 Rhodes 50 Cutter
Customers rave about the 1963 Rhodes 50 Cutter for its exceptional craftsmanship and timeless design
Many appreciate its sturdy construction, which has proven reliable for long voyages. The cutter rig offers excellent sail performance, making it a favorite among sailing enthusiasts looking for both speed and stability. Owners frequently highlight the spacious interior, featuring a well-appointed galley, comfortable living quarters, and ample storage, which is perfect for extended cruises. The classic lines of the hull not only provide a visually striking profile but also contribute to its excellent handling in various sea conditions. Additionally, the attention to detail in the trim and fittings, combined with the rich woodwork, creates a warm and inviting atmosphere onboard. Many sailors express their admiration for the Rhodes 50's blend of traditional charm and modern functionality, ensuring that this iconic vessel remains beloved across generations. Whether for leisurely weekends or serious ocean passages, the 1963 Rhodes 50 Cutter continues to gain accolades for its performance and enduring appeal.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The Rhodes 50 Cutter, launched in 1963, is a classic cruising yacht known for its robust construction and timeless design. Below are some pros and cons associated with this vessel:
Pros
Sturdy Construction: Built with solid materials and traditional craftsmanship, the Rhodes 50 is known for its durability and seaworthiness, making her suitable for long voyages and ocean passages.
Spacious Interior: With a generous beam and well-thought-out layout, the interior offers ample living space that is both comfortable and functional. Many owners appreciate the classic wood finishes and traditional styling.
Strong Performance: The cutter rig provides versatility in sail plan and can handle a range of wind conditions effectively. This means she can sail efficiently in various environments, making her an excellent choice for various cruising needs.
Classic Design: The elegant lines and classic aesthetic of the Rhodes 50 Cutter appeal to those who appreciate traditional yacht design. Her timeless look is often a standout in any harbor.
Good Storage: The design often includes ample storage options, allowing for extended cruising without feeling cramped and providing enough space for gear, provisions, and personal items.
Cons
Maintenance Requirements: As a yacht from 1963, owners may encounter more maintenance and upkeep than newer vessels. Regular maintenance of the hull and systems is necessary to keep her in prime condition.
Limited Modern Amenities: Compared to contemporary yachts, the Rhodes 50 may lack some modern conveniences and technological advancements, which could be a drawback for those accustomed to the latest features.
Weight and Speed: While her weight contributes to stability, it can also mean slower performance, especially in lighter winds. This might not meet the expectations of sailors looking for speed.
Cost of Refurbishment: Depending on the condition of the specific vessel, refurbishment costs for upgrades may be significant, especially when addressing older systems or outdated materials.
Availability of Parts: Finding parts for a classic yacht can be challenging. Although many components can be custom-made or sourced, it may take time and effort compared to more modern designs.
Made For
The 1963 Rhodes 50 Cutter is designed for the adventurous sailor seeking a blend of classic craftsmanship and modern performance. It’s perfect for cruising enthusiasts who appreciate the timeless design and robust build quality, making it well-suited for long voyages and offshore passages. Whether you are a seasoned mariner or a passionate newcomer to sailing, this vessel caters to those who value comfort and functionality on the water. Families and groups of friends will enjoy its spacious layout and amenities, enabling memorable experiences at sea. The Rhodes 50 Cutter is ideal for individuals or couples looking to embark on extended journeys, as well as those who wish to explore coastal waters and harbors in style. With its strong sailing capabilities, extensive storage, and inviting living spaces, the Rhodes 50 Cutter is a perfect choice for those who aspire to navigate the open waters with ease and elegance.
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 1963 Rhodes 50 Cutter | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $175,000 | $159,000 | $149,500 | $149,000 | $119,950 | $74,500 |
| Location | Port Townsend | Seattle | Anacortes | Anacortes | Seattle | Tacoma |
| Nominal Length | 50' | 35' | 47' | 38' | 51' | 31' |
| Beam | 13' | - | - | - | - | - |
| Draft | 8' | - | - | - | - | - |
| Engine Make | Westerbeke | Yanmar | Yanmar | Yanmar | Perkins | Beta Marine |
| Total Engine Power | 58 hp | 40 hp | 62 hp | 28 hp | 85 hp | 30 hp |
| Days on Market | 98 | 40 | 157 | 44 | 511 | 60 |
| Get in touch |
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Boat Location
Contact Swiftsure Yachts about 1963 Rhodes 50 Cutter
2540 Westlake Ave N., Suite A, Seattle, WA, 98109
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