1985 Bertram Custom
$199,000
Boat in Wanchese, NC 27981 US
Built in 1985
Custom
2 Engines (2x Cummins)
38 feet
Diesel
Fiberglass/Reinforced
The current owners of COST OF LIVING have put a lot of time and effort into transforming a classic older 38 Bertram into a clean, simple and efficient fishing machine. They have painted her, updated the cockpit layout for more practicality to suit the needs of their fishing program, added a SeaKeeper, electronics, new curtains as well as replaced windows and beefed up areas in and around the cabin to provide durability and simplicity for use and maintenance moving forward. If you look at the Overview, you will realize the tremendous scope of the work they have done.
She is powered by a set of dependable 465hp Cummins engines as well as a 8KW Onan genset. She has a full head and shower, crew bunk room and a V berth forward. She is set up for easy fishing and would make a good rig for anyone looking for affordability, easy maintenance and simplicity in a mid sized convertible. Give us a call!
COST OF LIVING SPECS / RECENT MAINTENANCE AND REFIT
Twin 2002 Cummins 6CTA 8.3L 480CE 465hp
~2600hrs original
Cruise at 2,200rpm around 68-70% load / 27-30GPH / 23 kt
WOT at ~2,700rpm 99% load / 52-54GPH /~29 kt
Onan 8.0 MDKD Genset /~4800hrs
Fireboy Fire Protection System
100 Gallon freshwater tank
400 Single fuel tank
2022 PROJECTS
2 - Standard Horizon Quantum AIS GX6000 VHF radios
2 - Shakespeare 5225 antennas
2 - Garmin 8610 units at helm
Garmin Gt51m-Thp Ss DownvÜ/SidevÜ Transducer
Fusion stereo
JL Audio speakers on bridge and cockpit
New Isotherm freezer
Black Oak LED curved light bar
Black Oak LED cockpit spreader lights
New helm switch panel
6- Lee’s extra heavy rod holders
New Lee’s custom built 31’ double spreader outriggers w/ heavy back bars and braces to support dredges
SeaKeeper SK6 installed
Release teak fighting chair installed
New bridge soft Bimini top
New Led Nav lights
All coolers serviced, fluids changed, props pulled and checked/balanced, and zincs serviced.
Bottom painted
2023 PROJECTS
Starboard transmission rebuilt. Turbo had to be removed to access transmission / turbo sent out and serviced as an overall condition check.
All coolers serviced, fluids changed, props pulled and checked/balanced, and zincs serviced.
2024 REFIT
Interior
-Replaced salon floor with composite material
-Replaced salon walls
-Added new aluminum bracing to floor
-Painted engine room
-Converted engine room to LED lights
-Added engine ventilation system
-New A/C through hull fittings
-New genset through hull fitting
-A/C units Descaled
-New salon thermostat
-Engine valve lash checked/adjusted
-All engine, genset, and gear coolers pressure checked, serviced, painted
-All interior lighting converted to LED
-Vacuflush freshwater head rebuilt
-Macerator pump serviced
-Forward bilge float switch replaced
-All engine room bilge pumps replaced
-High water alarm added
-New battery main distribution switches
-Fireboy system serviced, and new pull cable installed
-New fresh water pump installed
-New shower head
Exterior
-Salon windows replaced with frameless glass
-Windshield removed/replaced with composite material and fiberglass
-Salon back wall replaced with composite and new windows installed
-Porthole windows removed and glassed over
-Bow rail and anchor pulpit removed
-New transom fish box built
-New mezzanine bench cooler/fishbox with cuplolders
-New baitprep station with storage
-New Lumitec LED RBW cockpit lighting
-Rod holders relocated with new composite cover board
-Cockpit fiberglassed
-Shore power receptacles replaced and reloacated
-Full bottom job including blast, blister repair, epoxy primed and painted.
-Props pulled and checked/tuned
-Prop One applied to all underwater running gear
-Full Alexseal Prime and Paint, Matterhorn White.
-New raw water pump and strainer
-New fresh and raw water spigots in cockpit.
-New ColorReels Teaser reels on bridge
-Helm chair new powder coating
-New Acrylic front curtain with Strataglass sides on bridge. Single zip window in front for clear view.
-EVA Foam added to cover boards and bridge deck
Large L shaped couch to port with storage and custom bean bag seating along starboard side
Carpeted sole with easy ER access hatch on centerline
Fully carpeted forward dash with large rollback storage cabinets to port and microwave to starboard
Electrical panel with separated DC and AC breaker panels
Custom tackle center to starboard at salon entrance
Soft stretched headliner with teak grab rail and inlaid lighting
Teak salon door and upper trim throughout salon
Down companionway steps to full head to starboard. teak sole, Vacu-flush marine toilet system, mirrored vanity with sink and storage cabinet below, full shower
Carpeted sole, wallpaper and teak trim throughout living spaces
Stacked crew bunk room to port with drawer storage below, cubby shelving storage as well as cedar lined hanging locker
Forward V berth with dual bunk layout, lots of drawer storage in the face, cedar lined hanging locker with shelf storage and open storage for foul weather gear, etc.
Rope locker forward
Recently Customized cockpit layout
Release teak ladder back fighting chair
Large tuna door
Hawse pipes
Sea Deck style material on cover boards
Inlaid under cover board gaff and brush storage
6 Lee Rod holders in cover boards
Transom fish box
Huge custom Ice / Drink / Fish Storage box to port forward bulkhead with seating and drink holders
Bait prep station and huge storage compartment to starboard forward bulkhead below ladder to flybridge
(2) 30A service
Fireboy manual discharge handle in cockpit
Overhead lighting and JL Audio speakers
Quick connect water tank fill
F/W and R/W washdowns with SS 1/4 turn valves
Ladder to flybridge with extra handrails
Lazz access hatches
Access hatch to Sea Keeper SK6 in cockpit
Lee double spreader outriggers with heavy back bars, triple hal-lock halyard system
Access hatch to fuel tank valves
Black Oak cockpit spreader lights
Stidd helm chair with mounting pad base for additional chair
Morse dual controls
(2) 10" Garmin flat screen multi-function displays
Garmin GPSMap 7607 XSV
Garmin GPSMap 840 XS
VDO manual engine gauges / tachs / coolant / voltage / oil pressure / gear pressure
(2) Standard Horizon Quantum VHF radios
Engine starts / stops
Engine control panel w / Sync / Cruise / Low Idle / RPM up-down switches
Accessory panel w/ rocker switches for lights, bilge pumps and accesories
SeaKeeper display panel
Bennett trim tab switches
Fusion radio w/ Bluetooth and Sirius capabilities and JL Audio speakers
Sea Deck style material diamond tread sole
New 5 panel bridge enclosure by Life on the Horizon
Overhead Lighting
Reel Colors pancake style teaser reels
Fully enclosed belly rail with ladder to bridge, side rails and 5 rod holders
High water alarm display
Forward bench seating with padded coaming around perimeter
Forward brow storage compartment
Bimini top
Ritchie compass
Light bar and radar on top
8KW Onan generator
ZF280-1A 1.769:1 transmissions
Fireboy Fire Suppression system up to date
(2) AC units
Bilge pumps and High water alarm
Water Heater
Racor filtration systems with pressure gauges
House/ Starting battery banks and dedicated Genset battery
Manual gauges in ER
Dripless shaft seals
ER Blowers
Pro-Nautic 12-40P battery charger
New salon deck supports and sound dampening insulation ceiling panels throughout
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 5/26/26 | Price decreased | $199,000(-17.0%) |
| 2/18/25 | Initial price | $239,900 |
Overview from around the web 1985 Bertram Custom
Customers who have experienced the 1985 Bertram Custom often rave about its exceptional craftsmanship and timeless design
Many appreciate the robust construction that Bertram is known for, with several owners highlighting the boat's impressive seaworthiness and stability in various conditions. Feedback frequently notes the spacious interior layout, allowing for ample comfort during long trips. The quality of the materials used and the attention to detail in the finish are recurrent themes, with many admiring the blend of classic style and modern functionality. Performance is another point of praise, as users have reported smooth sailing and impressive handling, making it a reliable choice for both leisurely cruising and serious fishing pursuits. Overall, the 1985 Bertram Custom is celebrated for its reliability, elegant aesthetics, and the intangible charm that comes with a well-loved classic.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
1985 Bertram Custom Overview The 1985 Bertram Custom is a classic express cruiser known for its durable construction, strong performance, and timeless design. Below are the pros and cons to consider if you're contemplating this impressive vessel.
Pros
Robust Construction: The Bertram brand is renowned for its solid build quality. The 1985 Custom features a fiberglass hull that offers both durability and a reliable ride in various sea conditions.
Performance: Equipped with powerful engines, the Bertram Custom delivers impressive speed and stability, making it ideal for both fishing and cruising. Its deep-V hull design provides excellent handling and performance offshore.
Spacious Layout: The interior layout of the Bertram Custom is designed with comfort in mind. With ample seating, a well-equipped galley, and generous sleeping quarters, it’s perfect for extended outings.
Versatility: This vessel is well-suited for a range of activities, from recreational cruising to serious sport fishing, offering a great platform for various types of maritime adventures.
Classic Aesthetic: The 1985 model showcases a timeless design that appeals to both traditionalists and those looking for a characterful boat.
Renowned Brand: Bertram has a longstanding reputation in the boating community. Owning one is a mark of quality that often resonates with fellow boating enthusiasts.
Cons
Age: Being a 1985 model, some components may be outdated. Depending on maintenance and upgrades, potential buyers should be prepared for occasional repairs or modernization.
Fuel Efficiency: Older models like the Bertram Custom may not be as fuel-efficient as newer vessels equipped with advanced technology, which could lead to higher operational costs.
Space Utilization: While spacious, some users may find the layout less accommodating compared to more modern designs that maximize space and efficiency.
Limited Technology: Depending on the upgrades and condition of the specific vessel, it may lack contemporary technology features typically found in newer models, such as advanced navigation systems or smart boat features.
Maintenance Requirements: As with any older vessel, the 1985 Bertram Custom could require ongoing maintenance efforts. It's important for potential owners to factor in these responsibilities and costs.
Made For
The 1985 Bertram Custom is designed for avid boaters and fishing enthusiasts who appreciate timeless craftsmanship and robust performance. This classic vessel is perfect for those seeking an exceptional experience on the water, whether for leisurely cruising or serious deep-sea fishing. Its blend of rugged construction, spacious layout, and sophisticated design caters to both seasoned mariners and newcomers alike. Ideal for families, friends, or solo adventurers, the Bertram Custom offers a comfortable and versatile platform for creating unforgettable memories. With ample space for gear and amenities, it's perfect for extended excursions or day trips. Moreover, the boat's legendary stability and seaworthiness make it a reliable choice for navigating a variety of marine environments. In short, the 1985 Bertram Custom is for anyone who values quality, performance, and a strong boating legacy.
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 1985 Bertram Custom | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $199,000 | $119,000 | $107,700 | $299,000 | $79,900 | $419,000 |
| Wanchese | Oriental | Southport | Nags Head | Southport | Morehead City |
| - | - | 39' | - | - | 60' |
| Cummins | Detroit Diesel | Caterpillar | Caterpillar | Detroit | Caterpillar |
| 465 hp | 450 hp | 460 hp | 1050 hp | 375 hp | 1300 hp |
| 463 | 185 | 177 | 463 | 293 | 209 |
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Meet the Broker
Address
Boat Location
Contact Tournament Yacht Sales about 1985 Bertram Custom
1080 east Indiantown Road, Suite 101, Jupiter, 33477
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