1976 Palmer Johnson 42
$56,000
Boat in Kewaunee, WI 54216 US
Built in 1976
42
1 Engine (VOLVO PENTA)
42 feet
Diesel
Aluminum
Classic 1976 Palmer Johnson 42' "Divertimento" - $56,000
Location: Kewaunee, Wisconsin
Step aboard "Divertimento"-a beautifully maintained 1976 Palmer Johnson 42-footer, masterfully crafted for cruising the Great Lakes. Built with integrity by one of the world's finest boat builders, this vessel blends timeless style, modern upgrades, and proven performance. She's fast, fun, safe, and ready for her next adventure!
Impeccable Condition & Recent Upgrades
- Welded aluminum hull & deck with high-gloss Awlgrip finish (2008)-still in excellent condition
- Engine: Original 23hp Volvo diesel, completely rebuilt by a professional mechanic in 2025 (receipts available)
- Hydraulic drive system fully rebuilt in 2025; new hydraulic lines protected from chafing
- Fin keel (8,000 lbs. lead, 8' draft), carbon fiber rudder, and tiller steering
- Deck: New Treadmaster non-skid (2007), flush deck, Lexan hatches, high-grade hardware
- Sail inventory: Loaded with sails for every wind and weather condition (see below)
- Sail-handling: 11 Harken, Barient & Barbarosa winches, Harken mainsheet/traveler, Forespar solid boom vang, Harken roller furling (rebuilt 2008)
- Rigging: All standing rigging checked by specialist in 2008; new headstay (2008)
- Safety: Six new automatic inflatable PFDs, horseshoe buoy, Avon 3-person life raft, and multiple fire extinguishers
Premium Ray Marine Electronics
- E-120 Chart Plotter (Great Lakes charts)
- Radar, GPS, Depth Sounder, Sumlog, Wind System
- Type 2 Wireless Auto Pilot, AIS, VHF radio, and more
- New Blue Sea electric panel, 2 brand new 8D AGM batteries (2024), solar panel, 2000-watt inverter/charger
Exceptional Equipment & Comforts
- Anchoring: Maxwell windlass (VWC2200), Bruce 30kg anchor, two Danforth anchors, 300' hi-test chain, anchor roller & davit
- Galley: Spacious, with Force 10 gimbaled gas stove/oven, Scandvik stainless sink, Isotherm refrigerator/freezer, separate freezer, microwave, ample stowage, and full utensils
- Water: Two 50-gallon stainless tanks, IsoTemp water heater, Jabsco pump, pressure tank, all hoses to ABYC standards
- Head: Jabsco electric flush, 35-gallon poly holding tank
- Comfort: Sleeps 7 in salon, forward, and aft staterooms; Naugahyde settee cushions; Samsung 26" LCD TV
- Dinghy: Inflatable Avon with new Mercury 5hp outboard (Edson bracket)
- Custom cradle included-can be pulled behind a car
Sails (Appraised & Upgraded)
- Main (9/10 oz., fair), Genoa #1 (Kevlar, good), Genoa #2 & #3 (Dacron, excellent, new 2011), additional genoas and spinnaker
- Sails ) + $7,040 in new sails (2011)
- Blue canvas sail cover
Additional Features
- Three automatic bilge pumps
- Stainless steel pulpit, stanchions, and lifelines
- All wiring and hoses comply with ABYC standards
- Shore power, heavy-duty cord, polarity indicator, high-output alternator
- Ample fenders, lines, and safety gear
Notes
PFDs Owner has on board six new automatic inflatable life vests which qualify under
USCG regulations as Type V with Type III performance. There is also a horseshoe buoy
as a Type IV throwing device. Regulations require one Type I, II, III or V per person, plus
one Type IV throwable device.
DINGHY/OUTBOARD/AUXILIARY TO DIESEL Avon 3-person in good condition.
Mercury 5hp shortshaft outboard motor w/Edson mounting bracket - new in 2013.
TACKLE
Type Condition
Anchor Bruce 30KG(66#); two Danforth Type 1 30# w/
150' of 9x16" nylon line; one 15# Excellent
Windlass Maxwell windlass VWC2200 w/chain stop Excellent
Anchor davit Anchor roller on bow Excellent
Chain ACCO/g-4 Hi-test chain, 300' Excellent
Rodes Yes Adequate
Winches Three #26 Barient; two #55.2 ST Barbarosa; two #48 ST
Harken (11 total) Excellent
Chain plates Heavy-gauge welded to hull Excellent
SAILBOAT RIGGING*
Type Condition
Mast Aluminum, steps on keel Serviceable
Standing rigging 1x19 stainless steel wire rope, no cracks noted Serviceable
Stays 1x19 stainless steel wire rope, no cracks noted Serviceable
Running rigging NavTech hydraulic backstay & baby stay Serviceable
adjuster Fore spar mechanical boom vang
Type of rig Sloop
Jib sheet winches see above
Main sheet winch see above
Halyard winches see above
Mizzen winch none
Headstay new in 2008 Excellent
Roller furling by Harken (system rebuilt 2008) Serviceable
*Owner reports all rigging checked by rigging specialist in 2008 prior to launch.
TANKS & FUEL LINES
Type Condition
Fuel type Diesel, stainless steel, new in 2003 Excellent
Capacity 35-gallons
Location At stern
6Condition
TANKS & FUEL LINES, cont.
Filler hose Rubber fuel hose
Water separators Yes
Tanks vented Yes
Fuel lines Comply with ABYC standards
Ventilation/blowers Not applicable for diesel fuel
Shut-off valves Yes
Spare fuel storage No
LP tanks Trident Marine LP gas system Excellent
Safety concerns None, installed per ABYC standards
Outboard motor Mercury 5hp with Edson bracket New
Lines/hoses Comply with ABYC standards Serviceable
FENDERS Assorted, adequate in size and number for this size vessel.
HEAD & BLACK WATER Condition
Head is a Jabsco electric flush head Excellent
Holding tank is a 35-gallon poly tank w/deck access Excellent
WATER
Type Condition
Tanks: capacity Two 50-gallon in two stainless steel tanks Excellent
- Location Under port and starboard settees
- Secured Yes
- Inspected Yes
- Material Stainless steel
Lines/hoses Comply with ABYC standards Serviceable
Water heater IsoTemp Slimline 25 30.75"x12"
115v/800w stainless steel Excellent
Water pump Jabsco Sensor Max 14 3.7gpm 12v. Excellent
Water pressure tank Yes Excellent
Galley sink mixer faucet Scandvik #10438 Excellent
TACKLE
Type Condition
Anchor Bruce 30KG(66#); two Danforth Type 1 30# w/
150' of 9x16" nylon line; one 15# Excellent
Windlass Maxwell windlass VWC2200 w/chain stop Excellent
Anchor davit Anchor roller on bow Excellent
Chain ACCO/g-4 Hi-test chain, 300' Excellent
Rodes Yes Adequate
Chain plates Heavy-gauge welded to hull Excellen
SAILBOAT RIGGING*
adjuster Forespar mechanical boom vang
Type of rig Sloop
Jib sheet winches see above
Main sheet winch see above
Halyard winches see above
Mizzen winch none
Headstay new in 2008 Excellent
Roller furling by Harken (system rebuilt 2008) Serviceable
Divertimento is a rare opportunity to own a classic, performance-oriented Palmer Johnson that's been lovingly maintained and thoughtfully upgraded. She's turn-key and ready for her next owner to enjoy unforgettable adventures on the water
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 3/29/26 | Price decreased | $56,000(-4.2%) |
| 1/15/25 | Initial price | $64,400 |
Overview from around the web 1976 Palmer Johnson 42
Customers praise the 1976 Palmer Johnson 42 for its classic design and solid craftsmanship
Many highlight its spacious and comfortable interior, making it ideal for extended cruising. Owners appreciate the boat's reliable performance and sturdy build quality, which have stood the test of time. The timeless styling and attention to detail continue to attract enthusiasts who value both aesthetics and functionality in a vintage yacht. Overall, feedback reflects satisfaction with the Palmer Johnson 42 as a well-rounded vessel that combines elegance with seaworthy capabilities.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 1976 Palmer Johnson 42 is a classic yacht known for its timeless design and solid craftsmanship. Here are some of the pros and cons associated with this model:
Pros
Classic Styling: The Palmer Johnson 42 boasts elegant, traditional lines that appeal to enthusiasts of vintage yachts.
Solid Construction: Built with quality materials and attention to detail, it offers durability and a sturdy feel on the water.
Spacious Layout: For its size, the 42 provides comfortable accommodations and ample deck space, making it suitable for extended cruising.
Good Sailing Performance: With a well-balanced hull design, it handles well under sail, offering a rewarding experience for sailors.
Timeless Appeal: Owning a Palmer Johnson 42 is often seen as owning a piece of nautical history, which can be a point of pride for collectors and sailors alike.
Cons
Maintenance Requirements: Being a vintage vessel, it may require more upkeep and periodic refurbishments compared to modern yachts.
Older Systems: Electrical, plumbing, and mechanical systems may be outdated and in need of upgrades to meet current standards.
Limited Modern Amenities: It may lack some of the conveniences and technological features found in contemporary boats.
Potential for Higher Operating Costs: Due to age and maintenance needs, operating costs could be higher than newer models.
Resale Market: The market for classic yachts can be niche, potentially making resale more challenging.
Made For
The 1976 Palmer Johnson 42 is ideal for sailing enthusiasts who appreciate classic craftsmanship combined with reliable performance. Designed for those seeking a timeless yacht with a sturdy build, this vessel is perfect for experienced sailors looking for a dependable boat for coastal cruising or weekend adventures. Its elegant design and practical layout make it suitable for individuals or small families who value both style and functionality on the water.
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Compare with similar boats and find the perfect one for you.
 1976 Palmer Johnson 42 | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $56,000 | $58,900 | $49,500 | $49,000 | $36,000 | $20,000 |
| Kewaunee | Bayfield | Sturgeon Bay | Bayfield | Superior | Kenosha |
| - | 36' | 37' | 37' | - | 34' |
| 13' | - | - | - | - | - |
| 7' | - | - | - | - | - |
| VOLVO PENTA | Yanmar | Yanmar | Yanmar | Perkins | Universal |
| 23 hp | 27 hp | 27 hp | 36 hp | 50 hp | 30 hp |
| 500 | 317 | 99 | 286 | 495 | 116 |
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