2011 Bruce Roberts 50' Custom Ketch Boat in Fort Myers, FL 33905 US
Built in 2011
50' Custom Ketch
1 Engine (Yanmar)
50 feet
Diesel
Wooden
ANOTHER HUGE PRICE DROP!
**One-of-a-Kind Custom Ketch - Driftwood**
**Driftwood** is a truly unique 2011 Bruce Roberts 50 Custom Ketch, hand-built by the legendary Earl Rentmeester - the original owner and builder. This is a one-of-a-kind bluewater cruiser that perfectly blends classic ketch elegance with modern cold-molded wood construction fully encapsulated in fiberglass.
Her hull is constructed on laminated Douglas Fir framing with 5-ply birch plywood planking laid diagonally, fastened, and completely encapsulated in West System 105/205 epoxy, then sheathed in fiberglass cloth. The result is an exceptionally strong, quiet, and low-maintenance hull that offers the warmth and beauty of wood with the durability and peace of mind of fiberglass. The rounded-bilge canoe-body design, attached fin keel, and skeg-mounted rudder with integrated "lobster/crab trap" guard make her stable, responsive, and well-protected whether coastal cruising or heading offshore.
Step below deck and you'll be greeted by a bright, spacious, and genuinely livable interior. **Even a 6' person can stand tall and flat-palm the ceiling** - the outstanding headroom throughout the salon, galley, and cabins means everyone aboard enjoys complete comfort and freedom of movement. The custom layout features generous storage, beautiful woodwork, and an open, easy-flowing design that feels far more expansive than most 50-footers.
Power is provided by a reliable Yanmar 4JH4-TE 88 hp diesel engine that starts instantly and runs efficiently, giving you confidence for long passages or peaceful days at anchor. Last surveyed in June 2023, *Driftwood* is a vessel ready for her next chapter.
Whether you dream of family coastal adventures, comfortable liveaboard life, or extended bluewater voyages, this custom Bruce Roberts-Goodson design delivers timeless beauty, proven strength, and exceptional livability in one very special package. Located in Fort Myers, Florida - easy to see and easy to take delivery.
A rare find built with care and expertise by her original builder - *Driftwood* is ready to create new memories with her next proud owner.
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 |
|---|---|---|
| 5/23/26 | Price decreased | $349,000(-12.5%) |
| 4/25/26 | Price decreased | $399,000(-33.4%) |
| 4/9/26 | Initial price | $599,000 |
Overview from around the web 2011 Bruce Roberts 50' Custom Ketch
Customers praise the 2011 Bruce Roberts 50' Custom Ketch for its exceptional craftsmanship and robust build quality, highlighting the sturdy construction typical of Bruce Roberts designs
Many appreciate the spacious and well-thought-out layout, which offers comfortable living accommodations ideal for extended voyages. The ketch rig is noted for its versatility and ease of handling, making it suitable for both experienced sailors and those seeking a manageable sail plan. Owners also commend the vessel’s seaworthiness and stability in various conditions, emphasizing its reliability for long-distance cruising. Overall, feedback reflects strong satisfaction with the boat’s performance, comfort, and classic aesthetic appeal.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 2011 Bruce Roberts 50' Custom Ketch offers a range of advantages and some considerations to keep in mind:
Pros
Classic Design: Built with Bruce Roberts’ signature craftsmanship, combining traditional aesthetics with modern functionality.
Spacious Layout: Generous deck and interior space ideal for comfortable long-distance cruising or liveaboard lifestyle.
Sturdy Construction: Solid build quality using durable materials, ensuring reliability and seaworthiness.
Ketch Rig: Versatile sail plan that provides balanced handling and easier sail management, especially for shorthanded crews.
Customization: As a custom build, it often includes tailored features that enhance comfort and performance based on owner preferences.
Good Storage: Ample storage capacity for extended voyages, supporting self-sufficiency at sea.
Cons
Maintenance: As a custom and traditionally built vessel, it may require more regular upkeep compared to newer production boats with modern materials.
Weight: The robust construction can result in a heavier displacement, potentially affecting speed and agility.
Complex Rigging: The ketch rig, while versatile, involves more sails and rigging components, which can increase handling complexity for beginners.
Interior Style: Traditional interior design might not appeal to those seeking a more contemporary or minimalist aesthetic.
Availability of Parts: Custom boats sometimes face challenges sourcing specific replacement parts unique to the build.
Made For
The 2011 Bruce Roberts 50' Custom Ketch is ideal for experienced sailors and adventurers seeking a robust, ocean-capable vessel. Designed for those who value classic craftsmanship combined with modern performance, this ketch is perfect for long-distance cruising, liveaboard lifestyles, and exploring remote destinations in comfort and style. Its spacious layout and durable construction make it suitable for families, couples, or solo sailors who prioritize safety, reliability, and versatility on extended voyages.
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No image available 2011 Bruce Roberts 50' Custom Ketch | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $349,000 | $379,000 | $395,000 | $395,000 | $255,000 | $138,000 |
| Fort Myers | West Palm Beach | Fernandina Beach | Palm City | Bradenton | Saint Petersburg |
| 50' | 62' | 60' | - | 65' | 47' |
| 14' | - | - | - | - | - |
| Yanmar | Perkins | - | Yanmar | John Deere | Perkins |
| 88 hp | 135 hp | - | 110 hp | 275 hp | 135 hp |
| 63 | 1030 | 184 | 1133 | 268 | 275 |
Meet the Broker
Address
Boat Location
Contact Yachts360 about 2011 Bruce Roberts 50' Custom Ketch
1515 SE 17th Street, Suite 125, Fort Lauderdale, FL, 33316
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