1978 Bertram 42 Convertible

$49,900

Used

Boat in Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235 US

builtBuilt in 1978
Year the boat was built
model

42 Convertible

Boat model
engine

2 Engines (2x Mercruiser)

Engine type and count
length

42 feet

Overall boat length
fuel

Gas

Fuel type
material

Fiberglass/Reinforced

Hull material
Nominal Length
42ft
Length Overall
42.5ft
Beam
14.83ft
Max Draft
4ft
Dry Weight
39400lb
Fresh Water Tanks
150gal
Fuel Tanks
488gal
Hull Material
fiberglass
Hull Shape
deep-vee
Engine 1
Engine Make
Mercruiser
Engine Model
7.4L
Total Power
330hp
Engine Hours
9340
Engine Type
inboard
Fuel Type
gasoline
Engine Year
1978
Drive Type
direct
Engine 2
Engine Make
Mercruiser
Engine Model
7.4L
Total Power
330hp
Engine Hours
6251
Engine Type
inboard
Fuel Type
gasoline
Engine Year
1978
Drive Type
direct
Hull & Deck
  • White Fiberglass Deck & Hull
  • Electric Anchor Windlass with Delta Anchor
  • Anchor Chocks on Foredeck
  • Full Length S.S. Bow Rail
  • Large Cockpit (108 sq.ft.)
  • Fiberglass Swim Platform 
  • Forward Flybridge Seating
Accommodations
  • V-Berth Forward
  • Rope Locker in Forepeak
  • Overhead Hatch w/Screen
  • (2) Opening Ports
  • Directional Lighting
  • 110V Outlet
  • Vanity w/Sink
  • Large Hanging Locker
  • Dual Entry Head to Port
  • VacuFlush Head
  • Stall Shower
  • Full Sized Refrigerator/Freezer
  • Shower Sump
  • Water Pressure Pump
  • Water Heater
  • Guest Stateroom to Port w/Upper Bunk & Hanging Locker
  • Overhead and Directional Lighting
  • Galley Down to Starboard
  • Princess 3-Burner Stove w/Oven
  • Large Pantry
  • S.S. Sink
  • Microwave
  • Lockable Double Sliding Entry Doors from Cockpit
  • Sofa to Starboard, Lounge Chair to Port
  • Lower Station
Electrical & Electronics
  • Dual 30Amp Shorepower w/Cords
  • 2500 Watt Heart Inverter/Charger w/Remote Monitor & Control
  • Onan 6.5KW Generator
  • Automatic Bilge Pumps (3)
  • Dual Trumpet Horns
  • Electronics pictured on vessel will be included but not guaranteed to be working.
Disclaimer

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.

Exclusions
  • Installed downriggers to be included but not guaranteed to be working
  • Removable rod holders not included
  • Owners rods, reels, coolers and other personal fishing equipment not included
  • The name Metalfish is associated with other business entities and not to be included with the sale of the vessel

Price History

DateEventPrice
8/18/25Initial price$49,900

Overview from around the web 1978 Bertram 42 Convertible

Customers consistently praise the 1978 Bertram 42 Convertible for its classic design and robust construction

Many highlight its spacious cockpit and comfortable interior, making it ideal for both fishing adventures and family outings. Owners appreciate the boat’s solid performance in various sea conditions, noting its stability and reliable handling. The timeless style combined with practical features continues to make the Bertram 42 Convertible a sought-after model among boating enthusiasts.

The Biggest Pros and Cons

The 1978 Bertram 42 Convertible is a classic sportfishing yacht known for its robust construction and timeless design. Here are some of the key pros and cons of this iconic boat:

Pros

Solid Construction: Built with a strong fiberglass hull and heavy-duty framing, the Bertram 42 is renowned for its durability and ability to handle rough seas.

Classic Design: The iconic deep-V hull provides excellent stability and a smooth ride, making it a favorite among offshore anglers and cruisers alike.

Spacious Layout: The convertible design offers ample cockpit space for fishing activities, along with comfortable accommodations below deck for extended trips.

Reliable Performance: Equipped with powerful engines, the Bertram 42 delivers good speed and range, suitable for both sportfishing and cruising.

Resale Value: Due to its reputation and build quality, the Bertram 42 tends to hold its value well in the used boat market.

Cons

Maintenance: As a vintage boat, the 1978 model may require ongoing maintenance and updates to systems, wiring, and equipment to keep it in optimal condition.

Fuel Consumption: The powerful engines, while offering strong performance, can be less fuel-efficient compared to more modern designs.

Outdated Electronics: Original electronics and amenities may be outdated, necessitating upgrades to meet current navigation and communication standards.

Weight: The solid construction adds weight, which can affect fuel economy and speed compared to lighter, newer boats.

Limited Modern Comforts: While spacious, the interior styling and amenities reflect the era in which it was built and may lack some modern conveniences found in newer yachts.

Made For

The 1978 Bertram 42 Convertible is ideal for avid anglers and boating enthusiasts seeking a classic, versatile sportfishing yacht. Its design caters to those who appreciate a sturdy, reliable vessel capable of offshore fishing adventures while offering comfortable accommodations for extended trips. Whether you're a seasoned fisherman looking for a proven convertible or someone who enjoys cruising with family and friends, this boat delivers performance, durability, and timeless style.

Finance your dream boat!

Use our boat payment calculator to estimate monthly payments for 1978 Bertram 42 Convertible. Enter your down payment, choose a loan term, and adjust the interest rate to see an instant payment estimate — ideal if you're calculating boat payments before you enquire. Wondering how much does a Convertible cost in today's market, or how much does a Bertram cost for similar models? This boat financing calculator helps you compare scenarios in seconds, whether you're considering used boat financing or a new purchase.
Monthly payment
$566.35/mo
$
$
Loan amount$ 49,900
OR
%

Finance your dream boat!

Use our boat payment calculator to estimate monthly payments for 1978 Bertram 42 Convertible. Enter your down payment, choose a loan term, and adjust the interest rate to see an instant payment estimate — ideal if you're calculating boat payments before you enquire. Wondering how much does a Convertible cost in today's market, or how much does a Bertram cost for similar models? This boat financing calculator helps you compare scenarios in seconds, whether you're considering used boat financing or a new purchase.
Monthly payment
$566.35/mo
$
$
Loan amount$ 49,900
OR
%

Contact Bay Marine

155 E Redwood St, Door County, Sturgeon Bay, WI, 54235

Be the first to know when similar boats hit the market

Get notified when new boats become available

Meet the Broker

Address

155 E Redwood St
Door County
Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235

Boat Location

Be the First to Know

Get notified when new boats become available.