1986 Covey Island Boat Works Spencer Lincoln Pilot House Yawl
$49,500
Boat in Eliot, ME 03903 US
Spencer Lincoln Pilot House Yawl
1 Engine (Perkins)
38 feet
Diesel
Wooden
This custom, one-off pilot house yawl was built in 1986 by Covey Island Boatworks, a Nova Scotia yard that specializes in building composite (2 part) construction yachts. Aura III was designed by Spenser Lincoln, a well-known Maine lobster boat designer. Her rugged build and well-thought-out accommodations make her the perfect coastal cruiser, bluewater adventurer and a comfortable liveaboard. AURA III is powered by an 85 hp Perkins 4.236-M w 3,300 hours at the time of the rebuild in 2016/17, with an additional 500 +/- hours since. Her sail power includes a North Sails fully-battened Mainsail (w cover & lazy jacks), a North Sails fully-battened Mizzen (w/cover & lazy jacks), a Rolly Tasker roller-furling Headsail, a self-tacking Staysail, and a cruising Spinnaker with snuffer sock. She is truly rigged for performance. AURA III is equipped with Wagner steering compasses at the Cockpit and Pilot House steering stations, a Wagner S-50 autopilot, an ICOM VHF radio, a Standard Horizon depthsounder, a Furuno Navigator GPS chart plotter, a Raymarine RL-70 chart plotter/radar, and 2 solar panels. The Cockpit layout is spacious with seating all around, a center steering station, and plenty of storage. It has a framed canvas and Isenglass bimini, making your more tumultuous adventures nearly weathertight. AURA III's Herreshoff-styled interior with teak and holly cabin soles throughout, traditional bronze hardware, mahogany window trim, plenty of natural light, create a warm and inviting ambiance from stem to stern. The Pilot House has a classic helm, a bench seat, and 2 settees, port and starboard, that convert to berths. With her 12' beam and plenty of headroom, below decks is open/spacious and features a U-shaped Galley starboard with a deep stainless steel sink, a Princess 3 burner gimballed stove/oven, a top-loading insulated icebox w/a Seafrost system, and plenty of storage. The Main Salon has a convertible dinette, teak table w leaves, a full-size berth, and a "Dickenson Newport" wood stove - a cozy layout, perfect for entertaining. There is a double V-berth forward with a hanging locker, and lots of drawer space under, and a composting head with custom porcelain vanity and sink, and separate shower.
AURA III is a beautiful example of a well-loved, meticulously maintained one-of-a-kind gem. Under her current ownership, since 2005, she has been indoors during the off-seasons, and has benefitted greatly by her current owner's open-wallet approach to annual maintenance and thoughtful upgrades. See Work History/Upgrades for details.
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 11/14/25 | Price decreased | $49,500(-17.5%) |
| 10/2/24 | Initial price | $60,000 |
Overview from around the web 1986 Covey Island Boat Works Spencer Lincoln Pilot House Yawl
Customers have praised the 1986 Covey Island Boat Works Spencer Lincoln Pilot House Yawl for its exceptional craftsmanship and timeless design
Many highlight the sturdy construction and attention to detail that Covey Island Boat Works is known for, noting that it offers both durability and aesthetic appeal. Owners appreciate the spacious pilot house, which provides excellent visibility and comfort while sailing. The layout is often described as functional and user-friendly, making it easy to navigate both short trips and longer voyages. The yawl's performance under sail has garnered positive feedback as well, with many users noting its stability and ability to handle various weather conditions with ease. The combination of tradition and modern amenities makes it a favorite among both seasoned sailors and newcomers alike. Additionally, customers have mentioned the ample storage space and well-designed interiors, which enhance the overall experience on board. The 1986 Spencer Lincoln Pilot House Yawl is often regarded as a reliable and enjoyable vessel that embodies a true love for sailing.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
1986 Covey Island Boat Works Spencer Lincoln Pilot House Yawl: Pros and Cons
Pros
Timeless Design: The Spencer Lincoln Pilot House Yawl boasts a classic aesthetic, combining traditional yacht styling with functionality, making it visually appealing for enthusiasts of vintage boats. 2. Sturdy Construction: Built by Covey Island Boat Works, known for their craftsmanship, this yawl features a solid fiberglass hull that offers durability and strength, ensuring it can withstand various marine conditions. 3. Pilot House Configuration: The enclosed pilot house provides excellent visibility and protects the helmsman from the elements, making it ideal for extended cruising in diverse weather conditions. 4. Versatile Sailing Options: As a yawl, this vessel provides multiple sail configurations, allowing for flexibility in sailing performance. It is well-suited for both leisurely sailing and more spirited adventures. 5. Spacious Interior: The design typically offers a comfortable interior layout with ample living space, including sleeping quarters and a galley, making it a great choice for extended voyages. 6. Strong Community: Owning a vintage yacht like this often means joining a community of enthusiasts who appreciate craftsmanship and heritage, providing opportunities for socializing and sharing experiences.
Cons
Maintenance Requirements: Older boats often require more upkeep and maintenance, which can be time-consuming and costly. Potential buyers should be prepared for this commitment. 2. Technology Limitations: While classic, the technology and equipment on board may not match modern standards, potentially requiring upgrades for navigation and safety. 3. Performance Limitations: While the yawl configuration has its advantages, it may not perform as well as more modern designs in terms of speed and maneuverability, particularly in competitive sailing scenarios. 4. Size and Handling: Depending on the specific model, the size and weight of the vessel may present challenges in handling, especially for less experienced sailors or during docking maneuvers. 5. Availability of Parts: Finding replacement parts or accessories specific to older models can sometimes be challenging, which may lead to delays in repairs or modifications. 6. Resale Value: While classic boats can hold their value, niche markets exist, and resale may be more challenging compared to newer, more popular designs.
Made For
The 1986 Covey Island Boat Works Spencer Lincoln Pilot House Yawl is designed for the discerning sailor who values both craftsmanship and performance. Ideal for cruising enthusiasts and long-distance voyagers, this vessel combines classic elegance with modern functionality. Its spacious pilot house offers excellent visibility and comfort, making it perfect for those who enjoy sailing in varying weather conditions. This yawl is particularly well-suited for experienced sailors who appreciate the nuances of traditional sailing while also seeking the reliability and safety of a well-built boat. Families and groups will find ample space for socializing and relaxing, while the thoughtful layout ensures that everyone can enjoy the journey. Whether you're planning weekend getaways or extended voyages, this yawl caters to those who seek adventure on the water with style and confidence.
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Family-owned and operated for 68 years, Merri-Mar Yacht Basin is a full-service, year-round marina, located on the Merrimack River in historic Newburyport MA. We offer seasonal and transient moorings & dockage, free WIFI & parking, storage, a Service Department, a Parts Department, a Ship's Store, and a Yacht Brokerage for pre-owned power & sail vessels.
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364 Merrimac Street, Newburyport, MA, 01950



























