1981 Bristol Yawl
$55,900
Boat in Deltaville, VA 23043 US
Built in 1981
Yawl
1 Engine (Westerbeke)
40 feet
Diesel
Fiberglass/Reinforced
The 1981 Bristol 40, designed by Ted Hood is a racer-cruiser known for its classic traditional design, sturdy construction, and a true sailing experience.
S/V Nancy Dawson is a clean and well-maintained 1981 Bristol Yawl 40. She has just been relaunched after having the standing rigging replaced. She offers a combination of traditional charm and seaworthiness for anyone seeking a great cruiser for a great price!
Highlights include:
- NEW standing rigging (2025)
- Cabin-top mainsail traveler (most located in the cockpit)
- Lewmar two-speed self-tailing wenches
- Furlex 300 Rp;;er-reefing for foresails
- Fully Battened Mizzen
- Fully Battened Mainsail
- 150 Genoa with UV cover
- Lazy Jacks
- Cockpit Cushions
- Daforth 30 w/50'chain 250'rode
- Safety Equipment
- Lowrance Mapping GPS
- Furuno Radar
- VHS
- 40HP Westerbeke
- Forward V-berth
- Aft Quarter Berth
This boat has lots to offer and is an excellent choice for anyone seeking sailing traditions and a great cruising option! Call Lynn at 804-384-3723 to schedule your appointment!
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 |
|---|---|---|
| 8/13/25 | Initial price | $55,900 |
Overview from around the web 1981 Bristol Yawl
Customers praise the 1981 Bristol Yawl for its classic design and sturdy construction, highlighting its excellent craftsmanship and timeless appeal
Many appreciate the boat's responsive handling and seaworthiness, making it ideal for both leisurely coastal cruising and more adventurous sailing. Owners often note the spacious cockpit and comfortable layout, which enhance the overall sailing experience. Additionally, the Bristol Yawl's vintage charm combined with reliable performance continues to attract sailing enthusiasts who value tradition and quality on the water.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 1981 Bristol Yawl is a classic daysailer and pocket cruiser known for its elegant design and solid craftsmanship. Here are some pros and cons of this vintage sailboat:
Pros
Timeless Design: The Bristol Yawl features a graceful, traditional appearance with classic lines that appeal to enthusiasts of vintage sailboats.
Quality Construction: Built with solid fiberglass hulls and fine wood trim, the 1981 model offers durability and a sturdy feel on the water.
Good Sailing Performance: With a balanced sail plan and keel design, the Bristol Yawl handles well in a variety of conditions, providing responsive and enjoyable sailing.
Manageable Size: At around 23 feet, it’s easy to trailer, launch, and sail single-handed or with a small crew.
Comfortable Cockpit: The cockpit layout is roomy for a boat of its size, making it a pleasant platform for day sailing or short cruises.
Classic Charm: The combination of traditional aesthetics and solid sailing characteristics makes it a favorite among classic boat lovers.
Cons
Limited Interior Space: Due to its daysailer and pocket cruiser design, the cabin accommodations are minimal and better suited for short-term use rather than extended cruising.
Maintenance of Wood Trim: While beautiful, the wood elements require regular upkeep to maintain appearance and prevent deterioration.
Older Equipment: Being a 1981 model, some hardware and rigging may be outdated or require replacement to meet modern safety and performance standards.
Less Modern Amenities: Compared to contemporary sailboats, the Bristol Yawl lacks many modern conveniences and may not appeal to sailors seeking high-tech features.
Weight: Its solid construction adds weight, which can affect trailering ease and light-wind performance.
Made For
The 1981 Bristol Yawl is ideal for sailing enthusiasts who appreciate classic design combined with reliable performance. It suits sailors looking for a versatile cruiser capable of handling coastal voyages with ease, as well as those who enjoy day sailing in comfort and style. Its manageable size and sturdy construction make it a great choice for both novice and experienced sailors seeking a dependable and elegant boat.
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Contact Norton’s Yacht Sales
97 Marina Drive, Deltaville, VA, 23043
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