1990 Able 42 Boat in Southwest Harbor, ME 04679 US
Built in 1990
42
1 Engine (Yanmar)
42 feet
Diesel
Fiberglass/Composite
Nickleby is a beautiful example of the Able 42. Built by Able Yachts and designed by Chuck Paine, the 42 features a raised salon deck design providing an open, light interior with views looking out onto the water with a two cabin, two head layout. She has been well cared for and extensively upgraded by her current and prior owners. She is equally capable of daysailing with friends and family or crossing oceans in safety and comfort.
Her current owners purchased her in 2021 and have lived and cruised on her making continuous improvements. Prior to that she spent her summers in Maine and stored inside winters at some of the best yards in Maine. She is back in Maine in at the Hinckley yard in Southwest Harbor and ready for her next owners to sail away. An extensive list of improvements and maintenance is available.
Some of the more significant upgrades and maintenance include:
- Navigation, B&G Zeus S Glass 9" and 12" plotters, Halo 20+, NMEA 2000, instrument cluster H5000 (2022)
- Solar Panel on Bimini, flexible panels on dodger
- Eclectic D400 wind generator
- Vetus Electric Bow thruster added
- Victron 3000W 12v inverter
- New AIS class B transceiver
- GPS / Compass
- 12 new seacocks Groco bronze, all new hoses clamps etc 2025
- 2025 recoated brightwork
- all new hoses on engine and serviced/painted 2021
- all new fuel lines, fuel pump, Racor fuel filter, pick up tubes, fuel polished
- New 120' G4 chain, and 220' ⅝" nylon 8-strand line Remote Anchor control
- Cockpit cushions 2025
- Transmission rebuilt by Mastry Yanmar in Florida (2023)
- Drive shaft completely rebuilt from transmission to pillow block, new bearings, new universal, all new hardware, rudder dropped and inspected and bronze rudder boot rebedded (2023)
- New Hull Shield ultrasonic antifouling system installed 2024
Construction:
The hull and deck are constructed with fiberglass with balsa core. Solid fiberglass at thru hulls. White gelcoat deck with grey nonskid areas.
Hull:
- Paine keel and skeg-protected, balanced rudder
- Underwater Body soda blasted, filled, faired and coated with 5 coats of Barrier coat then 2 fresh ablative anti-fouling coatings ~ 2011
- Micron 66 bottom paint
- Maxprop reconditioned ~ 2022
- Bronze Groco through hulls replaced with new hoses and
- Groco bronze seacocks (all replaced 2025)
Deck:
- Stainless steel tubular pulpit
- Stainless steel stanchions
- Upper and lower braided wire safety lines
- Port, starboard and aft boarding gates
- Stainless steel tubular push pit
- Stainless steel tubular folding swim ladder with teak treads in aft gate
- Bright teak toe rails mounted on the molded bulwarks
- All deck hardware removed, disassembled, cleaned and lubed ~ 2016
- All Barient winches disassembled, cleaned and greased in 2026
- Exterior teak stripped and re-varnished 2025, recoated 2026
- Edson outboard engine lift ~ 2013
- Stainless steel bow fitting with double chain channel and anchor rollers
- Rocna primary anchor
- Anchor locker made watertight ~ 2013
- 85' 3/8 G4 chain spliced to 250' 5/8" 8 Yale 8 plaits ~ 2024
- Maxwell HRC windlass ~ 2016 - rebuilt 2022, new chain gypsy 2024
- Auto Anchor 710 wireless windlass control with chain counter ~ 2016
- Fortress anchor in custom bag ~ 2016
- Wichard padeye on foredeck to secure dinghy when offshore ~ 2016
- Chocks for bowlines port and starboard
- Stainless steel bow cleats port and starboard
- Inner genoa tracks with adjustable cars
- Stainless steel midships cleats port and starboard
- Midships chocks port and starboard
- Bright teak brow wrapping around sides and forward edge of coach roof
- Stainless steel framed overhead hatches provide natural light and ventilation (hatch lenses replaced 2026)
- Double bright teak handrails port and starboard
- Bright teak dorado boxes port and starboard with stainless steel cowling port and starboard
- Stainless steel tubular guards over dorade boxes port and starboard
- Stainless steel fireplace vent
- Raised deck salon with (9) custom laminated glass, fixed windows
- Life raft cradle for Switlik 6 person life raft (out of inspection)
- Boat hook with custom deck fittings
- Main sail traveler over companionway sea hood
- (3) Wichard padeyes in cockpit for better routing of jacklines ~ 2016
- Teak footrest at helm ~ 2013
- Shower faucet replaced ~ 2024
- Edson manual bilge pump overhauled ~ 2020
- Espar heating duct for cockpit added ~ 2020
- Cockpit cushions (2025)
Interior Accommodations:
The interior cabinetry and trim are in North Carolina cherry with a satin varnish finish, the bulkheads are white laminate, and the sole is varnished teak and holly. The upholstery is in royal blue Ultrasuede.
- LED lighting ~ 2011
- Refinish complete teak and holly cabin sole with (8) coats of Epifanes satin varnish ~ 2019
- (9) Lexan windows, restored ~ 2013
- Screens for all port lights ~ 2022
Companionway
- Custom latches for weather boards that allow locking from inside and out ~ 2013
- Tread master inserts in companionway steps ~ 2016
- Companionway ladder stripped and revarnished 2026
Forward Cabin:
Forward is the master stateroom with large V berth (with filler), with stowage beneath, cabinets and shelves outboard with a bureau and a louvered hanging locker to starboard. Ambient light and ventilation is achieved via a large overhead hatch and two opening ports.
- Overhead opening deck hatch
- Overhead dome lighting
- 12-Volt Hella fan
- Opening port lights port and starboard
- Reading light to port
- Cubby and locker storage above and outboard of bunk
- Built in burrow outboard to starboard with drawers below top and locker above
- Hanging locker aft of the burrow to starboard
- Forward cabin cushions replaced ~ 2018
- Infill boards and cushion
Forward Head:
The spacious en suite head and shower compartment is abaft the V berth and to port and features a dedicated shower, vanity and cabinet. The head has an overhead hatch and opening port.
- Overhead opening deck hatch
- Overhead dome lighting
- Dorade vent overhead
- Opening port light
- 12-Volt Hella fan
- Shower curtain
- Built in hooks
- Bulk headed mounted fitting for shower wand
- Shower wand on flexible hose
- Storage lockers outboard
- Plumbing for head but currently used for dedicated shower
- LED lighting built into mirror ~ 2016
- Single basin sink
- Storage locker below sink
- Varnished teak grate over shower sump
- All hoses in head replaced 2025
Main Salon:
Walking aft one enters the main saloon which features large, fixed ports in a raised house, that allow a panoramic view. A large overhead hatch adds to the ample light and airy aspect. To starboard and forward in the main saloon is a brass Luke stove with ceramic tiles featuring an Able 42 underway and a lighthouse scene. There is a fixed solid cherry centerline table with settees to port and starboard. Above and outboard of the port settee are louvered cabinets and shelving, above the starboard settee is a pilot berth.
- Overhead opening hatches
- Overhead dome lighting
- (3) Forward facing fixed deck saloon lights
- Opening port lights port and starboard
- Fixed portlights port and starboard with shades
- Kerosene light on aft edge of mast above table
- Imtra Piel LED reading light for port settee ~ 2016
- Additional light on forward bulkhead above settee
- Luke fireplace - disassembled and polished ~ 2016
- Hand painted tiles on fireplace reset in grout ~ 2016
- Double leaf salon table with top loading storage
- Locker and shelf storage outboard to port above settee
- Pilots berth above and outboard of settee to starboard
- Reading light for pilots berth
- 12v Smart Google TV mounted in locker (2025)
Nav Station:
Abaft the starboard settee is the navigation station that has a large desk and fixed forward facing bench, navigation instruments and circuit board are outboard.
- Fixed port light with shades
- Overhead dome lighting
- Weems and Plath ships clock with bell ~ 2013
- Weems and Plath barometer
- Shelf storage behind and above chart table seat
- Imtra Piel LED reading light for port settee ~ 2016
- Chart table light on flexible arm
- Suite of electronics (See Electronics)
- Electrical panel (See Electrical System)
- Tank tender tank monitor
- La Crosse Technology clock and indoor/outdoor temperature display
- Forward facing top loading chart table
- Drawer storage below table top
Aft Cabin:
The aft guest cabin is to starboard abaft the nav station and features a louvered hanging locker, drawers, and a large double berth.
- Overhead dome lighting
- Overhead deck hatch with fan
- Fixed portlight outboard with shape
- Opening port lights outboard and into cockpit
- 12 Volt Hella fan
- Reading light
- Burrow with drawer storage bellow top and locker storage above and outboard
- Hanging locker forward and outboard
Aft Head:
The aft head is conveniently located at the base of the companionway just aft of the galley
- Overhead opening deck hatch
- Overhead dome lighting
- Fixed port light with shade
- 12 Volt Hella fan
- Built in hooks
- Bulkhead fitting for shower wand
- Fresh water shower with wand on flexible hose
- Storage aft of head with soft fabric enclosure and heat vent
- Drop down seat above head
- Electric freshwater head ~ 2011 - plumbed via valve to either fresh or salt water
- Sanitation hoses replaced ~ 2011
- Locker storage above and outboard sink
- Single basin sink
- Locker storage below sink
- Varnished teak grate above sump
Galley:
To port is a well-conceived and efficiently designed U-shaped galley. White laminate counter tops. Storage for provisions outboard and in cupboards and cabinets. Headroom below ranges for 6'3" in the galley and forward cabin to 6'9" in the main saloon.
- Overhead dome lighting
- Fixed portlight with shade
- 12-Volt Hela fan
- Built in spice rack on aft bulkhead
- Locker storage outboard
- Gimballed Force 10 3-burner propane stove with oven and broiler ~ 2018
- Nova Kool 12v refrigeration system (2023)
- Deep stainless-steel sink with Grohe faucet (replaced 2023)
- Seagull water filter at galley sink (2023)
Electrical System:
120 Volt AC System
- Bass 120-volt electrical distribution panel with amp and voltage meter
- 30 Amp shore power inlet
- 30 Amp shore power cable
12 Volt DC System:
- Bass 12-volt electrical distribution panel with amp and voltage meter
- AGM LIFELINE starter battery
- Balmar [165 amp] Alternator with Smart 5 stage Regulator and Temperature Sensor ~ 2016
- (2) Kilo vault 150amp lithium batteries with built-in BMS ~ 2021
- Victron 30amp AC charger with smartphone monitoring ~ 2021
- Victron 18A DC-DC charger with smartphone monitoring ~ 2024
- Victron solar controller with smartphone monitoring ~ 2023
- 440 watt rigid solar panel over bimini (2023)
- (2) 78 watt flexible solar panels on dodger (2022)
- Victron Pheonix 12/3000 inverter (2022)
- D-400 wind generator (new 2022)
- Xantrex link Lite battery condition monitor
- Galvanic isolator
- Jabsco fan installed to cool high-capacity alternator ~ 2016
- USB plugs in fwd and aft cabins ~ 2016
Electronics:
- B&G Zeus 3S 12" chartplotter/radar display (2022)
- B&G Zeus 3s 9" chartplotter/radar display (2022)
- B&G H5000 Hydra with GCD (2022)
- B&G H5000 Color Graphic Displays located port and starboard of AWA (2022)
- B&G H5000 Analogue AWA 360 (2022)
- B&G Halo20+ digital radome (2022)
- Icom M424G VHF at Nav station (2023)
- Icom Command mic in cockpit with new wiring (2023)
- Icom handheld M94D VHF (2023)
- Icom M700 SSB radio
- Simrad AP25 autopilot
- Simrad AP27 corded autopilot remote
- B&G V3100 Class B AIS transponder integrated into B&G system (2024)
- New Airmar speed, depth and temperature transducer 2025
Mechanical:
- Yanmar 4JH3E 56 hp diesel engine with 5,835 hours as of August 2026
- Engine overhauled in 2021 - coolers cleaned, new front engine mounts, new hoses, belts, thermostat, gaskets, painted.
- New cutlass bearing and PSS drippless shaft seal 2021
- Transmission rebuilt 2023
- Shaft removed and trued 2023
- Rudder removed and stuffing box cleaned and repacked 2023
- Max Prop three bladed bronze feathering prop (reconditioned 2022)
- Engine mounts ~ 2011
- Vetus gooseneck in exhaust system to prevent seawater entering exhaust system when offshore ~ 2013
- Espar heater with ducts to aft head & main saloon ~ 2011, serviced 2025
- Jabsco electric 12 volt DC fresh water pump
- Jabsco electric 12v HD salt water washdown pump (2023)
- Isotemp Slim 25 25 6.5 gal water heater ~ 2016
- SPECTRA 150 water maker ~ 2013 Rebuilt 2024 with new membranes
- Fuel: 62 Gallons total capacity in (2) aluminum tanks - polished 2024
- New fuel pickups 2024
- Water: 112 Gallon total capacity in (2) stainless tanks
- Holding tank: 27 Gallons in fiberglass tank
- 2nd vent line on black water tank to eliminate odor ~ 2013
- New macerator pump ~ 2019
- All seacocks replaced with Groco Bronze valves and fittings with new hoses and hose clamps (2025)
- Hull Shield antifouling ultrasonic hull transducer system installed 2024
- Propane system replaced 2023 - new regulator, solenoid, fume sensor and control panel. New pigtails 2026
- Storage for three 10lb propane tanks (tanks new 2022)
- Vetus electric bow thruster installed 2022
Spars & Rigging:
Cutter rig with removable inner forestay. Aluminum mast with double spreaders stepped on keel. Awlgripped mast and boom. Cockpit layout and lines are designed for a couple to sail her with ease especially with the addition of her electric main sail halyard winch. Main halyard, vang and reefing lines lead aft.
- Stainless steel Navtec rod rigging ~ complete overhaul in 2015 by Maloney Rigging including reheading rod and some new sections and hardware as needed. Rig inspected 2025
- (2) Hydraulic back stay adjusters with Navtec adjuster in cockpit (Navtec panel rebuilt 2024 with new high pressure hoses, and oil, cylinders rebuilt 2023)
- Forespar Combination Steaming & Deck light ~ 2012/2013
- Forespar guard to protect mast deck light ~ 2016
- LED Lights in Mast Head Tri-color ~ 2025
- (8) Custom sheaves for reefing system in boom with new harken blocks ~ 2016
- Harken shuttle blocks for reefing system in boom ~ 2016
- Hall Quick vang (line led aft)
- Harken traveler
- Awlgripped spinnaker pole mounted on forward edge of mast
- Harken spinnaker pole car
- Harken sheave for main halyard at top of mast ~ 2016
- Detachable inner forestay with Hyfield lever
- Harken headsail furling system
- Running back stays
- Carbauer clutches
Winches
(8) winches all overhauled ~ 2016
- Harken Unipower winch for mainsail on coach roof ~ 2019
- (2) Barient 32 (2) speed self-tailing primary winches on cockpit coaming
- (3) Barient 28 (2) speed self-tailing halyard winched on coach roof
- (2) Barient 28 (2) speed self-tailing halyard winched on mast
Sails
- Carbon Sport mainsail by Z Sails ~ 2016
- Carbon Sport 135 Jib by Z Sails ~ 2016
- Yankee 105 Sail by Hallett Sails ~ 2011
- Storm staysail by Z Sails ~ 2005
- Gennaker by Z Sails
- Spinnaker
Safety and additional gear:
- Blaze Cut fire suppression tubes installed over Lithium batteries and Espar heater
- Fire extinguishers (new 2024)
- Lifesling, throwing rope and Horseshoe ring new 2022
- Docklines
- Fenders with fleece covers
- RescueMe EPIRB
- Sun awning - covers from mast to cockpit
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 | $285,000 |
Overview from around the web 1990 Able 42
The Able 42, built in 1990, has garnered a loyal following among boating enthusiasts for its exceptional craftsmanship and performance
Customers frequently praise its sturdy construction, often highlighting the solid fiberglass hull that ensures durability and a smooth ride even in challenging conditions. Owners appreciate the spacious and well-designed interior layout, which features ample storage, comfortable living space, and a well-equipped galley, making long journeys enjoyable and accommodating. The boat's excellent sailing capabilities, characterized by its responsive handling and steady performance, often receive high marks from users who enjoy both cruising and racing. Many feedback comments emphasize the versatility of the Able 42, as it seamlessly transitions from relaxed family outings to more spirited sailing adventures. The boat's attention to detail, classic lines, and timeless elegance are also frequently acknowledged, making it not just a functional vessel but a beautiful one as well. Overall, the 1990 Able 42 is celebrated for combining quality construction, comfort, and sailing prowess, making it a cherished choice among its owners.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The Able 42, launched in 1990, is a distinguished cruising sailboat that has garnered attention for its robust design and exceptional performance. Here’s a comprehensive look at the pros and cons of this classic vessel:
Pros
Sturdy Construction: The Able 42 is built with high-quality materials and craftsmanship, providing a durable and seaworthy vessel that can withstand various conditions.
Performance: Known for its excellent sailing characteristics, the Able 42 delivers great handling and speed, making it ideal for both leisurely cruising and competitive sailing.
Space and Comfort: With a spacious interior layout, the Able 42 offers ample living space for extended voyages, including comfortable sleeping arrangements and well-equipped galley.
Versatile Design: The design offers a balanced combination of power and agility, suitable for a wide range of sailing experiences, from coastal adventures to bluewater passages.
Legacy and Community: As part of the Able fleet, owners benefit from a strong community of enthusiasts who share knowledge, resources, and support for maintenance and upgrades.
Cons
Age-Related Wear: Being a vessel from 1990, potential buyers should be aware of age-related wear and tear, which may necessitate updates or repairs to systems and components.
Fuel Consumption: While sailing performance is strong, the engine efficiency could be less favorable compared to newer models, which may lead to higher fuel costs over time.
Maintenance: Older boats, including the Able 42, may require more frequent maintenance or specific repairs that can challenge less experienced boat owners.
Market Availability: Depending on the region, finding a well-maintained Able 42 might be challenging, as classic models can be less common compared to newer alternatives.
Limited Modern Features: While the Able 42 is equipped for cruising, it may lack some of the modern amenities and technology found in newer vessels, possibly requiring retrofitting for a contemporary feel.
Made For
The 1990 Able 42 is perfect for sailing enthusiasts who value performance and comfort in their boating experience. Designed for both seasoned sailors and those new to the sport, this vessel caters to a diverse range of individuals. Whether you are an adventurer looking to explore coastal waters or a family seeking weekend getaways, the Able 42 offers ample space and stability. Its classic lines and thoughtful design appeal to those who appreciate timeless aesthetics, while its robust construction ensures durability and safety. Cruisers looking for an economical and efficient boat for extended voyages will find the Able 42 to be an excellent choice, thanks to its well-appointed interior and impressive sailing capabilities. With room for guests and storage for gear, this model is ideal for social outings and overnight adventures alike. In summary, the 1990 Able 42 is for anyone who desires a reliable, versatile, and stylish sailing vessel that can cater to a variety of maritime passions.
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 1990 Able 42 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $285,000 | $248,000 | $325,000 | $215,000 | $205,000 | $180,000 |
| Location | Southwest Harbor | Falmouth | Georgetown | Camden | Camden | Harpswell |
| Nominal Length | 42' | 39' | 44' | 46' | 46' | 40' |
| Beam | 13' | - | - | - | - | - |
| Draft | 5' | - | - | - | - | - |
| Engine Make | Yanmar | Volvo | Westerbeke | Yanmar | Beta Marine | Yanmar |
| Total Engine Power | 56 hp | 40 hp | 63 hp | 75 hp | 60 hp | 55 hp |
| Days on Market | 17 | 28 | 66 | 56 | 15 | 49 |
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