1985 Herreshoff Nereia Yachts 38 Boat in Beaufort, NC 28516 US
Built in 1985
Nereia Yachts 38
1 Engine (Perkins)
38 feet
--
Fiberglass/Reinforced
1985 Herreshoff Nereia 38 Ketch
A Rare American Classic - Lovingly Sailed by Current Owner for 20 Years.
This exceptional 1985 Herreshoff Nereia 38 is a beautifully crafted cruising ketch with a remarkable combination of classic design, offshore capability, and traditional craftsmanship. She is my personal boat, and I have had the privilege of sailing and caring for her for the past 20 years.
Built in Wilmington, North Carolina by Alan Cothren, NEREIA is based on the legendary L. Francis Herreshoff Design No. 87, Nereia, a design widely admired for its graceful New England lines, seaworthy characteristics, and practical cruising layout.
Nereia Yachts combined the timeless appearance and proportions of a Herreshoff classic with durable modern fiberglass construction. The result is a yacht with the beauty of a traditional New England cruiser and the strength and practicality expected of a serious offshore passagemaker.
From her sweeping sheerline, graceful overhangs, and mahogany bowsprit to her bronze hardware and warm teak interior, this is a yacht built with an uncommon level of attention to detail. She is equally suited to coastal cruising, extended offshore passages, or simply enjoying the experience of owning a distinctive piece of American yacht-building history.
Construction
- One-of-a-kind 1985 Herreshoff Nereia 38
- Built in Wilmington, North Carolina
- Based on L. Francis Herreshoff Design No. 87, Nereia
- Fiberglass hull with 5/8" Airex core and bidirectional fiberglass laminate
- Fiberglass deck with closed-cell foam core construction
- Molded-in bulwarks
- Tan molded non-skid deck
- Hull and deck mechanically fastened and bonded with 3M 5200
- Internal cast ballast securely bonded inside hull
- Large forepeak sail locker with deck hatch
- Oversized cockpit drains
- Dedicated, vented propane locker
Exterior & Deck Hardware
The deck hardware reflects the traditional character of the design, with extensive use of teak, mahogany, and bronze.
- Mahogany bowsprit and Samson post
- Teak cap rails
- Teak handrails
- Teak cockpit coaming rails
- Fiberglass rudder with stainless-steel backbone and bronze gudgeons
- Ten oval bronze opening ports
- Six bronze hawse pipes
- Bronze anchor deck pipe
- Bronze lifeline stanchions
- Dual bronze anchor rollers
Rig & Sail Plan
The classic cruising ketch rig provides a versatile and easily managed sail plan well suited to offshore cruising.
- Heavy-wall 6061-T6 aluminum keel-stepped mast
- Awlgrip-painted mast
- Internal halyards
- 5/16" stainless-steel standing rigging - 2018
- Harken furler - 2018
- Mainsail with reef points
- Mizzen with reef points
- Mule
- Staysail
- Yankee
- Genoa
- Spinnaker
Engine & Mechanical
- Perkins 4-108 diesel
- 50 HP
- Freshwater cooling with heat exchanger
- Raw-water strainer
- Water-lift muffler
- Three-blade feathering Max Prop
- 1-1/8" stainless-steel propeller shaft
- 50-gallon fiberglass fuel tank
Electrical
- 30-amp shore-power system
- Shore-power receptacles and breakers
- 12-volt electrical distribution panel
- Battery selector switch
- Two deep-cycle marine batteries, approximately 100 Ah each
- Navigation lights
- Anchor light
- Ten interior cabin lights
Plumbing
- 25-gallon freshwater tank
- Bronze through-hulls with seacocks below the waterline
- Automatic electric bilge pump
- Manual cockpit bilge pump
- Manual marine toilet with fiberglass holding tank
- Shower with sump and drain pump
Interior
Inside, the Herreshoff character continues with a warm, traditional cruising interior featuring extensive teak and practical storage throughout.
- Traditional Herreshoff interior
- Teak cabin-side liners
- Decorative teak hull battens
- Spacious cruising accommodations
- Approximately 6 cu. ft. insulated icebox
- 4" closed-cell insulation
- Three-burner gimbaled propane stove with oven
- Abundant storage throughout
A Rare Opportunity
Nereia 38s do not come to market often, and this boat has an especially compelling story. After 20 years of personal ownership and sailing, I am offering her to someone who will appreciate what makes this design so special.
The Nereia 38 is not simply a classic-looking yacht. She was conceived as a capable cruising vessel, combining L. Francis Herreshoff's elegant proportions with a practical offshore-oriented design and substantial construction.
Her combination of classic lines, fiberglass construction, bronze hardware, traditional teak interior, ketch rig, and proven Perkins diesel power makes her a distinctive choice for the sailor looking for something far beyond the ordinary production cruiser.
Whether your plans call for coastal cruising, extended passages, living aboard, or simply owning and sailing a genuine American classic, this Herreshoff Nereia 38 deserves serious consideration.
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 |
|---|---|---|
| 8/18/26 | Initial price | $75,000 |
Videos from Beaufort Yacht Sales on this 1985 Herreshoff Nereia Yachts 38
Overview from around the web 1985 Herreshoff Nereia Yachts 38
Customers rave about the 1985 Herreshoff Nereia Yachts 38, praising its elegant design and exceptional craftsmanship
Many appreciate its classic lines and timeless aesthetic, which embody the spirit of Herreshoff's iconic yacht-building legacy. Owners highlight the vessel's impressive sailing performance, noting its responsiveness and stability in a variety of conditions. The well-balanced hull design allows for smooth handling, making it a favorite among both seasoned sailors and those new to the boating world. The spacious and thoughtfully laid-out interior receives frequent accolades, with many enjoying the comfortable living space that blends functionality with charm. The use of high-quality materials throughout the cabin adds to its warm and inviting atmosphere, making it ideal for extended cruising. Overall, the 1985 Herreshoff Nereia Yachts 38 is celebrated for its blend of grace, performance, and comfort, ensuring it remains a cherished choice for boat enthusiasts. Whether sailing the open seas or enjoying a sunset at anchor, owners feel a deep appreciation for the craftsmanship that defines this timeless yacht.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 1985 Herreshoff Nereia Yachts 38 is a classic sailing yacht known for its elegant design and strong performance. Here are some pros and cons to consider:
Pros
Classic Design: The Nereia 38 boasts beautiful lines and a timeless aesthetic, making it a standout on the water.
Strong Build Quality: Constructed with high-quality materials, these yachts are known for their durability and seaworthiness.
Sailing Performance: The boat offers good sailing performance with responsive handling, making it suitable for both cruising and competitive sailing.
Comfortable Interior: The cabin layout provides a cozy and inviting space, often featuring solid wood finishes and well-thought-out amenities for onboard living.
Herreshoff Legacy: As part of the Herreshoff lineage, this yacht carries a reputation for excellence and innovation in yacht design.
Versatile Use: The Nereia 38 is versatile, functioning well for both long-distance cruising and short weekend getaways.
Cons
Maintenance: Older yachts often require more upkeep, and some owners may find maintenance on a 1985 model to be more demanding.
Availability of Parts: Specific parts for older models may be harder to source, which can lead to challenges in repairs or upgrades.
Sailing Technology: Compared to modern vessels, the technology and equipment on a 1985 model may not be as advanced, potentially affecting performance and comfort.
Space Limitations: While the interior is designed for comfort, the space can be limited compared to newer models, especially for larger crews.
Weight: Depending on the model configuration, the boat may be heavier than some modern designs, which could impact speed and agility.
Made For
The 1985 Herreshoff Nereia Yachts 38 is an ideal choice for discerning sailors who appreciate classic craftsmanship and timeless design. This vessel caters to those who value both performance and elegance, making it perfect for avid cruisers and racing enthusiasts alike. Whether you're a seasoned sailor looking for a reliable and stylish yacht or a new owner eager to embrace the sailing lifestyle, the Nereia Yachts 38 delivers an exceptional blend of comfort and capability on the water. With its thoughtful layout and spacious accommodations, this yacht is well-suited for families and those seeking to entertain guests during weekend getaways or longer voyages. Its strong build ensures safety and durability, while the classic lines and attention to detail captivate both sailors and admirers. Ideal for those who appreciate nautical heritage, the Herreshoff Nereia Yachts 38 invites you to experience sailing as it was meant to be—elegant, exhilarating, and deeply satisfying.
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 1985 Herreshoff Nereia Yachts 38 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $75,000 | $62,900 | $59,900 | $119,000 | $29,000 | $29,000 |
| Location | Beaufort | Beaufort | New Bern | Oriental | Washington | Wrightsville Beach |
| Nominal Length | 38' | 38' | 50' | 40' | 37' | 34' |
| Beam | 11' | - | - | - | - | - |
| Draft | 5' | - | - | - | - | - |
| Engine Make | Perkins | Yanmar | Yanmar | Westerbeke | Beta Marine | Yanmar |
| Total Engine Power | 50 hp | 27 hp | 105 hp | - | 38 hp | 20 hp |
| Days on Market | 21 | 76 | 64 | 5 | 402 | 74 |
| Get in touch |
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Contact Beaufort Yacht Sales about 1985 Herreshoff Nereia Yachts 38
300 Front St, Beaufort, NC, 28516
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