1976 Bristol 34Sold
$8,500
Boat in Albany, NY 12207 US
Built in 1976
34
1 Engine (Universal)
34 feet
Diesel
Fiberglass/Reinforced
The Bristol 34 was designed by Halsey Herreshoff. It was based on an earlier model, the Bristol 33. 70 Bristol 34's were built from 1970 until 1978. LADYBUG is a centerboard model with a draft with board up of only 4'. She's roomy below and nicely finished.
LADYBUG's owner has owned her for 4 years. He writes the following:
"I've been restoring her for the past few years and I was about to finish up and put her back in the water when I had to stop. She's on the hard with the mast unstepped and the bottom partially sanded. The mast has been fitted with new hardware and lighting. Among other things, I fixed the cracked sidedecks, repaired and painted the deck, installed new seacocks, and head vents. To get her back in the water, the new owner will need to step the mast, install lifelines and paint the bottom. There is a ton of restoration material on board, along with hardware to be installed after the mast is stepped. So, she doesn't look great, but there's been a lot of work done."
As the first 10 owner-provided photos depict, the boat is currently in a project state. Tools and materials are currently scattered everywhere. The remaining photos show the boat as she appeared when the current owner purchased her in 2021.
Sleeps six. Forward cabin features V berth with shelves port and starboard and storage underneath. Athwartships head next aft with Raritan marine toilet, vanity and cold shower. Drawers to port, hanging locker and drawers to starboard. Main cabin features settees port and starboard. Port settee extends to form double berth. Mast-mounted teak table with drop leaves. Nav station and quarterberth aft to port, galley opposite to starboard.
Galley features HilleRange stainless steel, three-burner, propane stove with oven, stainless steel sink with cold pressurized water, hand pump, and ice box. Note: Boat was once equipped with a hot and cold pressurized water system, but the hot water tank was removed.
12 volt DC and 110 volt AC dockside systems with combined Blue Sea Systems breaker panel (2009) with voltmeter and ammeter for 12 volts and voltmeter for 110 volts.12 volt system includes three 12 volt batteries, battery selector switch. 110 volt system includes Truecharge 40 amp battery charger/converter (2009) and 30 amp 50' shore power cord. Boat was re-wired in 2009.
Uniden MC 535 VHF radio transceiver, Raymarine ST40 knotmeter and depthsounder, Ritchie pedestal-mounted compass.
Modified full keel with skeg-hung rudder. Blue Awlgripped topsides, white deck. Bow anchor roller. Single lifelines with starboard boarding gate. Two overhead hatches, one opening port in head. Two clamshell vents over head, starboard vent is solar-powered. Edson pedestal wheel steering. Rail mounted, polyethylene outboard motor bracket. Centerboard pennant replaced in 2009. Thru hulls replaced in 2009.
Keel-mounted aluminum mast. Quantum Thurston fully-battened mainsail (2009) and 120% roller-furling genoa (2009) in good condition. Harken roller-furling system (2010) for headsails. Lewmar winch inventory includes mast-mounted main halyard winch (wire halyard), #8 mast-mounted genoa halyard winch, #8 centerboard winch, and two #40 genoa sheet winches. Mainsheet traveler just forward of steering pedestal.
Burgundy dodger, bimini (tore in recent gale, usable now as a template for a new one), and mainsail cover. Sea Choice 22 Danforth-type anchor with 100' chain and nylon rode. Spare Danforth-type anchor. Road Gear AM/FM/CD stereo with two speakers in main cabin. Electric and manual bilge pumps. Air horn. Flares. Fire extinguisher. Four docklines. 4 PFD's. Lifesling.
New Universal M25 fresh-water-cooled, three-cylinder, diesel engine was installed in 2007 along with a new PYI dripless shaft seal, new shift and throttle cables, and fuel tank.
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 |
|---|---|---|
| 1/29/26 | Initial price | $8,500 |
1976 Bristol 34 Video Tours
Overview from around the web 1976 Bristol 34
Customers praise the 1976 Bristol 34 for its classic design, solid construction, and excellent sailing performance
Many highlight its spacious interior for a boat of its size, making it comfortable for extended cruising. Owners often appreciate the boat's stability and ease of handling, noting that it performs well both in coastal waters and offshore conditions. The timeless aesthetic and quality craftsmanship continue to make the Bristol 34 a favorite among sailing enthusiasts who value durability and traditional style.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 1976 Bristol 34 is a classic cruiser known for its solid construction and traditional design. Here are some pros and cons to consider:
Pros
Sturdy Build: The Bristol 34 features a robust fiberglass hull with a heavy displacement, making it very stable and seaworthy in various conditions.
Classic Aesthetics: Its timeless design appeals to sailors who appreciate traditional lines and craftsmanship.
Comfortable Interior: The layout offers ample space for a 34-foot boat, with practical accommodations suitable for extended cruising.
Good Sailing Performance: While not a racing boat, the Bristol 34 handles well and offers a balanced sail plan that performs reliably in moderate winds.
Quality Joinery: The interior woodwork is typically well-crafted, adding to the boat’s charm and durability.
Cons
Heavier Displacement: The boat’s weight can limit speed and responsiveness, especially in light wind conditions.
Older Systems: Being a 1976 model, some onboard systems and equipment may be outdated and require upgrades or maintenance.
Limited Modern Amenities: Compared to newer designs, the Bristol 34 may lack some contemporary conveniences and innovations.
Draft Considerations: Depending on the keel version, the draft may restrict access to shallower waters.
Maintenance: Classic boats often need more upkeep to preserve their condition, which can be time-consuming and costly.
Made For
The 1976 Bristol 34 is ideal for sailors seeking a classic, well-crafted cruiser that balances comfort and performance. Perfect for weekend getaways or extended coastal cruising, this boat appeals to those who appreciate traditional design, solid construction, and reliable handling. Whether you're an experienced sailor looking for a sturdy, proven vessel or a couple wanting a spacious and comfortable boat for leisurely adventures, the Bristol 34 offers a timeless sailing experience.
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Meet the Broker
Address
Boat Location
Contact Lawson Yachts LLC about 1976 Bristol 34
190 Lincoln St, Hingham, MA, 02043
Contact Lawson Yachts LLC
190 Lincoln St, Hingham, MA, 02043
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