1972 Bristol 40
$39,500
Boat in Morrill, ME 04952 US
40
1 Engine (Westerbeke)
40 feet
Diesel
Fiberglass/Reinforced
GREAT VALUE
Lovely example of this Ted Hood Classic. Kate has been pampered in New England for the last 20+ years. She has been stored indoors nearly every winter, always professionally maintained and updated by a top New England yard. She has been gently used by an owner who likes a clean, simple boat in good order. Kate is a head-turner in any harbor and a joy to sail. The owners have decided it is time to downsize and are ready for Kate to fulfill someone else's sailing adventures. She is a proper yacht and we encourage you to come see for yourself. Includes new inflatable dinghy and motor.
Kate has been donated to a Maine Non-Profit and is available for sale through a charter-to-term arrangement. Additional details are available upon request.
The timeless elegance of a varnished teak and mahogany interior on a classic yacht is hard to resist, especially in one as well kept as Kate. The fine Bristol craftsmanship and the layout has an equal measure of sea-going function and comfort. All lighting has been replaced with LED Danish Frigast Cabin Lights. All ports have been rebedded and lenses replaced as needed. The large overhead hatch was custom built to replace the original fiberglass hatch. All cushions have been re-upholstered and renewed with Tempur-Pedic foam.
Going forward from the companionway is a classic main cabin layout with a dinette to port (converts to double), and a large settee/sea-berth to starboard with outboard storage lockers, as well as a fantastic chart drawer beneath. Main cabin equipment includes a Dickerson diesel-fired cabin heater, a nicely varnished dining table, a stereo system, and a 12v fan. The cabin sole is varnished teak and holly (solid wood, not veneer).
Continuing forward to starboard is a stack of drawers and a double hanging locker. Opposite is a large, enclosed head accessible from either the main cabin or the forward cabin. The head contains a sink, pull-out shower, and manual toilet (rebuilt in 2021) with a Y-valve for overboard discharge. A new macerator pump is installed as well as a new holding tank and all new plumbing. There is a new dedicated shower sump in the bilge, and several storage drawers and lockers.
The V-berth has a seat between the two berths as well as an insert to convert the berth into a double. There are ample drawers and lockers in this area, as well as a full-length shelf on both sides. Forward of the V-berth is access to the rode/chain locker.
The galley is aft to port of the companionway steps and the Nav Station/ice box is across to starboard.
Galley located to port of the companionway steps, with ice box and counter space to starboard
- 3-burner LPG stove & oven
- H/C pressure water
- New 11-gallon H/W heater
- New water tanks and all associated plumbing, 2021
- Large stainless steel sink with H/C faucet and foot pump
- Engine-driven Sea-Frost refrigeration in large ice box to starboard
- Raymarine Depth sounder
- Standard Horizon VHF radio, 2021
- Simrad below decks autopilot
- Ritchie Binnacle Compass
- Well-maintained Westerbeke 40 inboard diesel rebuilt in 2004, showing 2705 hours on the meter
- New transmission, 2023
- engine mounts and hoses 2023
- New oil pan, rear seal, exhaust elbow, 2023
- New shaft tube, 2023
- New Cutlass Bearing, 2023
- Engine-driven sea-frost refrigeration
- 3-blade fixed prop
- NEW steering cable
- manual bilge pump in cockpit
- All sea-cocks checked and lubed, 2023
Hull
- Solid fiberglass hull awlgripped in midnight blue
- Centerboard full keel with encapsulated lead ballast.
- Centerboard cable and pin replaced in 2022
- Steering cable replaced 2023
Deck
- Decks painted with an off-white non-skid
- Bow roller forward housing a Stainless Steel plow anchor with Stainless chain rode
- Forward hatch replaced with custom made, Hinckley-style hatch
- three polished stainless steel dorade vents
- Side-mount swim ladder
- Large cockpit with full lazarette storage both port and starboard.
- LPG locker on aft deck
- Uncluttered binnacle with recent Ritchie compass and and classic wood wheel
- (2) Polished stainless steel cowl vents on aft deck.
- Teak cockpit table and drink holder
- NEW custom teak grate over the cockpit sole, 2023
- Cockpit cushions
- Dodger & Bmini
- Custom shade awning by Downs Sails
- All exterior brightwork in excellent condition
Rig
- Keel-stepped, masthead sloop rig
- Tides Marine Strong track for the Main, 2022
- jib furler
- (2) Lewmar 48 S/T primary winches recently lubed
- Jib track was removed and refastened with new bolts, 2022
- All mast wiring replaced 2022
Sails
- New mainsail, 2023
- 135 Genoa, 2005
- Adequate dock lines and fenders
- 2020 Achilles Inflatable
- 2021 Honda 2.5hp outboard
- (3) Group 27 batteries
- 30 amp shore power system
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 | $39,500 |
1972 Bristol 40 Video Tours
Overview from around the web 1972 Bristol 40
Customers consistently praise the 1972 Bristol 40 for its classic design, solid construction, and exceptional sailing performance
Owners appreciate its timeless aesthetic combined with a spacious and well-laid-out interior, making it comfortable for extended cruising. Many highlight the boat’s sturdy build quality and reliable handling in various sea conditions, noting it as a vessel that inspires confidence. Additionally, sailors often mention the Bristol 40’s balance between traditional craftsmanship and practical features, making it a beloved choice among classic yacht enthusiasts.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 1972 Bristol 40 is a classic cruising sailboat known for its solid construction and timeless design. Here are some of the key pros and cons of this model:
Pros
Sturdy Build: The Bristol 40 is renowned for its robust fiberglass construction and quality craftsmanship, offering durability and longevity.
Classic Aesthetics: With its traditional lines and elegant styling, it appeals to sailors who appreciate classic yacht design.
Comfortable Interior: The layout provides ample space below deck, featuring a well-designed salon, galley, and sleeping quarters suitable for extended cruising.
Good Performance: While not a racing boat, the Bristol 40 sails well and handles comfortably in a variety of conditions, making it reliable for coastal and offshore cruising.
Solid Reputation: It has a strong following and proven track record, with many boats still actively sailed and maintained decades after their launch.
Cons
Older Design: As a 1972 model, some aspects of the design and equipment may feel dated compared to modern sailboats, potentially requiring upgrades.
Weight: The Bristol 40 is relatively heavy, which can result in slower acceleration and less responsiveness under sail.
Maintenance: Given its age, owners may face ongoing maintenance issues typical of older vessels, such as wear on original fittings or systems.
Limited Modern Amenities: Modern conveniences and technology are not standard, so retrofitting may be necessary to meet contemporary cruising expectations.
Cost of Upkeep: High-quality original materials mean repairs and replacements can be costly, especially if aiming to preserve the boat's classic character.
Made For
The 1972 Bristol 40 is ideal for sailors seeking a classic, well-crafted cruiser that combines traditional design with reliable performance. Perfect for those who appreciate solid construction and timeless style, this boat suits coastal cruisers and small families or couples looking for comfortable accommodations and seaworthy handling on extended weekend trips or longer voyages. Its spacious interior and robust build make it a great choice for sailors who value both comfort and durability on the water.
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Address
Boat Location
Contact Sailboats Northeast about 1972 Bristol 40
6 Cliff St, P. O. Box 924, Marblehead, MA, 01945
Contact Sailboats Northeast
6 Cliff St, P. O. Box 924, Marblehead, MA, 01945














































