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2011 Bruce Roberts 50' Custom Ketch Sold Boat in Fort Myers, FL 33905 US
Built in 2011
50' Custom Ketch
1 Engine (Yanmar)
50 feet
Diesel
Wooden
PRICED TO SELL - ALL OFFERS WELCOME
2011 Bruce Roberts 50 Custom Ketch - Driftwood
Asking Price: $342,000 Location: Fort Myers, Florida
Overview
Driftwood is a custom bluewater cruiser designed by Bruce Roberts and built by master builder Earl Rentmeester. This ocean-ready ketch offers an extraordinary balance of classic lines, extreme structural strength, low-maintenance composite hull engineering, and exceptional indoor head clearance.
Key Selling Points
- Cold-Molded Epoxy Hull Engineering: Constructed using laminated Douglas Fir framing with 5-ply birch plywood planking laid diagonally. Fully encapsulated in West System 105/205 epoxy and sheathed in heavy fiberglass cloth. Offers superior strength, thermal/acoustic insulation, and zero rot or osmosis issues compared to traditional fiberglass hulls.
- Protected Underwater Profile: Designed with a rounded-bilge canoe body, an attached fin keel, and a skeg-mounted rudder equipped with an integrated lobster and crab trap guard for worry-free passage-making.
- Unmatched Headroom & Space: Generous vertical clearance throughout the salon, galley, and sleeping quarters-even a 6-foot sailor can stand flat-footed and place their hands flat against the ceiling.
- Low-Hour Yanmar Diesel Power: Powered by an 88 horsepower Yanmar 4JH4-TE 4-cylinder turbo diesel engine showing only 450+ engine hours. Fast-starting, economical, and smooth running.
- Advanced Electrical & Systems: Includes a Freedom SW 3000 Inverter and Charger setup, Xantrex system monitor, dedicated mechanical access cabinets, dual propane storage, and full AC and DC distribution panels.
- Turnkey Proven: Accompanied by complete construction photo albums and maintenance logbooks. Fully surveyed in June 2023.
Quick Specifications
- Year: 2011
- Length: 50 feet
- Class: Custom Ketch / Pilothouse Cruiser
- Engine: Yanmar 4JH4-TE 88 HP Turbo Diesel
- Engine Hours: 450+ hours
- Hull Type: Composite Cold-Molded Wood, Epoxy, and Fiberglass
- Location: Fort Myers, FL
Location & Viewing
Currently docked in Fort Myers, Florida. Easy to view, simple to inspect, and ready for immediate sea trials and delivery. The seller is ready to review all reasonable offers.
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 |
|---|---|---|
| 8/18/26 | Price increased | $342,000(+5.2%) |
| 6/17/26 | Price decreased | $325,000(-6.9%) |
| 5/23/26 | Price decreased | $349,000(-12.5%) |
| 4/25/26 | Price decreased | $399,000(-33.4%) |
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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Address
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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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