1979 Cheoy Lee 46 LRC Boat in Hilton Head Island, SC 29928 US
Built in 1979
46 LRC
2 Engines (2x Ford Lehman)
46 feet
Diesel
Fiberglass/Reinforced
Motivated Seller!
1979 Cheoy Lee 46 Long Range Cruiser - Built Beyond the Standard. Engineered for a Lifetime.NOW $189,500 | Hilton Head, South Carolina
Motivated Seller
Listed by Captain Daniel Spires | Lux Yachts
⚓ Some Boats Were Built to Meet a Price Point. This One Was Built to Meet a Standard.
Lux Yachts proudly presents this exceptional 1979 Cheoy Lee 46 Long Range Cruiser (LRC)-a yacht that represents an era when quality, strength, and seaworthiness came before production quotas and cost-cutting.
Constructed by the legendary Cheoy Lee Shipyard, one of the world's oldest and most respected yacht builders, this 46 LRC was engineered around Lloyd's Register construction standards using a philosophy rooted in commercial shipbuilding. Unlike many production yachts of its era, the Cheoy Lee features a solid hand-laid fiberglass hull, sandwich-cored decks and superstructure, and structural scantlings that exceeded Lloyd's published requirements. That commitment to engineering is one of the primary reasons these yachts continue to enjoy an outstanding reputation nearly five decades later.
This isn't simply another classic trawler-it's a true offshore cruising yacht built for owners who value craftsmanship, durability, and confidence underway.
Built for the Long Way Home
The Cheoy Lee 46 LRC has earned a loyal following among serious cruisers for good reason. Designed as a genuine long-range cruiser, she offers an exceptional combination of comfort, efficiency, and structural integrity.
With her three-stateroom layout, full-beam master suite, stand-up engine room, and centerline fiberglass fuel tanks, this yacht was designed to travel safely and comfortably for extended periods. The centerline fiberglass fuel tanks not only improve stability but eliminate one of the biggest concerns found on many classic trawlers-aging steel or iron fuel tanks.
Whether you're planning America's Great Loop, coastal cruising, or living aboard full-time, this Cheoy Lee is equipped to take you there with confidence.
Vessel Overview
- Year: 1979
- Make/Model: Cheoy Lee 46 Long Range Cruiser
- Length Overall: 46'
- Beam: 14'8"
- Hull: Solid Hand-Laid Fiberglass
- Fuel: Diesel
- Location: Hilton Head, South Carolina
⚙️ Power & MechanicalTwin Ford Lehman 120 HP Diesels
Among experienced cruisers, few engines have earned the reputation of the Ford Lehman 120. Known for their simplicity, fuel efficiency, and remarkable longevity, these naturally aspirated diesels continue to power cruising yachts around the world.
- Twin Ford Lehman 120 HP Diesels
- Approximately 4,430 Hours
- Borg Warner Transmissions
- Naiad Stabilizers (recently serviced)
- Reverso Oil Change System
- Onan 15kW Generator (Approx. 1,480 Hours)
- Four CruiseAir Reverse-Cycle HVAC Units
- Hydraulic Steering
- Extensive Spare Parts Inventory
Recent Improvements
This Cheoy Lee has benefited from extensive recent maintenance and upgrades, including:
✔ Professional Bottom Peel & Barrier Finish (March 2025)
✔ Bottom Blisters Properly Repaired Prior to Paint
✔ Cutlass Bearings Inspected
✔ New Shaft Zincs
✔ New Bimini Top (2025)
✔ Reupholstered Flybridge Seating
✔ Updated Flybridge Table
✔ New Teak Swim Platform
✔ New Salon Upholstery
✔ New Hisense Smart TV
✔ Granite Galley Countertops
✔ Deep Farm Sink & Updated Faucets
✔ Granite & Marble Head Upgrades
✔ New Washer & Dryer
Interior & Accommodations
One of the defining features of the Cheoy Lee 46 LRC is its incredible use of space.
Interior Highlights
- Rare Three-Stateroom Layout
- Full-Beam Aft Master Suite
- Private Ensuite with Separate Shower
- Spacious Full-Beam VIP Cabin
- Forward Guest Cabin
- Two Heads
- Large Salon with Rich Teak Joinery
- Updated Upholstery
- Beautiful Granite Galley
- Fully Equipped Kitchen
Few 46-foot trawlers offer this level of comfort and livability.
Navigation & Electronics
- Garmin Chartplotters (Pilothouse & Flybridge)
- Furuno 24-Mile Radar
- Wood Freeman Autopilot
- Starlink Internet
- Dual VHF Radios
- Dual Depth Sounders
- Six-Station Intercom System
- Dual Compasses
Deck & Exterior
Designed for serious cruising and easy handling:
- Electric Windlass
- 66 lb Bruce Anchor with 275' Chain (2024)
- Danforth Secondary Anchor
- Electric Dinghy Davits
- Fresh & Saltwater Washdowns
- Boarding Ramp
- Search Lights
- Spreader Lights
- Wide Side Decks
- Folding Mast
Great Loop Ready
With the mast folded, the air draft is reduced to approximately 17'6", making this yacht an excellent Great Loop candidate.
⭐ Why You'll Love This Cheoy Lee
✔ Built by the legendary Cheoy Lee Shipyard
✔ Engineered to Lloyd's Register construction standards
✔ Solid hand-laid fiberglass hull
✔ Commercial-grade construction philosophy
✔ Rare three-stateroom layout
✔ Full-beam stand-up engine room
✔ Centerline fiberglass fuel tanks-no iron tanks
✔ Legendary Ford Lehman diesel engines
✔ Naiad stabilizers
✔ Professional bottom peel completed
✔ Great Loop capable
✔ One of the most respected long-range cruising trawlers ever built
Now Offered at $189,500
This is an exceptional opportunity to own a true offshore-capable cruising yacht from one of the world's most respected shipyards. With her Lloyd's-inspired construction, proven Ford Lehman power, recent bottom work, and timeless Cheoy Lee craftsmanship, this 46 LRC offers a level of quality that is increasingly difficult to find.
The seller is motivated and welcomes serious offers.
Contact Captain Daniel Spires | Lux Yachts
Private showings are available by appointment in Hilton Head, South Carolina.
⚖️ Legal Disclaimer
The information provided herein is believed to be accurate but is not guaranteed and should not be relied upon without independent verification. Specifications, equipment, hours, condition, and included accessories are subject to change without notice. No warranties, expressed or implied, including merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose, are made. Vessel is offered subject to prior sale, price change, or withdrawal without notice. Vessel is sold AS IS, WHERE IS, and all inspections, surveys, and sea trials are the responsibility of the buyer.
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 |
|---|---|---|
| 7/2/26 | Price decreased | $189,500(-5.0%) |
| 5/19/26 | Price decreased | $199,500(-7.2%) |
| 4/29/26 | Price decreased | $214,900(-0.0%) |
| 4/28/26 | Price decreased | $215,000(-6.3%) |
1979 Cheoy Lee 46 LRC Video Tours
Overview from around the web 1979 Cheoy Lee 46 LRC
Customers praise the 1979 Cheoy Lee 46 LRC for its classic design and robust construction, highlighting its sturdy build and seaworthy performance
Many appreciate the spacious interior layout, which offers comfortable accommodations for extended cruising. Owners often mention the vessel's reliable long-range capabilities, making it ideal for bluewater passages. The traditional styling combined with practical features appeals to those seeking a dependable and timeless cruising yacht. Overall, feedback emphasizes durability, comfort, and the boat’s ability to handle a variety of sea conditions with confidence.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 1979 Cheoy Lee 46 LRC (Long Range Cruiser) is a classic bluewater cruiser known for its sturdy construction and traditional design. Here are some of the pros and cons of this model:
Pros
Solid Construction: Built with a strong fiberglass hull and a heavy-duty keel, the Cheoy Lee 46 LRC is designed to handle offshore conditions with confidence.
Long Range Capability: With ample fuel and water tankage, this yacht is well-suited for extended cruising and passagemaking.
Classic Aesthetic: The traditional lines and full keel design appeal to sailors who appreciate timeless styling and seaworthiness.
Spacious Interior: The layout typically includes comfortable accommodations for extended voyages, including a large saloon and multiple cabins.
Reliable Systems: Simplicity and robustness in onboard systems make maintenance more straightforward compared to modern, high-tech vessels.
Cons
Older Design: Being a 1979 model, some design elements and onboard systems may feel dated compared to contemporary yachts.
Heavier and Slower: The full keel and heavy displacement contribute to a slower sailing performance compared to more modern, lighter cruisers.
Maintenance Requirements: As with many older boats, upkeep can be time-consuming and potentially costly, especially if original equipment has not been updated.
Limited Modern Amenities: The yacht may lack some of the conveniences and advanced technology found on newer models, such as modern navigation electronics or energy-efficient systems.
Interior Layout: While spacious, the interior design may not optimize space usage as efficiently as newer designs, possibly feeling more closed or compartmentalized.
Made For
The 1979 Cheoy Lee 46 LRC is ideal for sailors and cruisers who seek a sturdy, classic long-range cruising yacht. Its design and build quality make it perfect for those interested in extended offshore passages, offering comfort, reliability, and ample living space. Whether you're an experienced sailor looking for a capable bluewater vessel or someone passionate about traditional craftsmanship with modern functionality, the Cheoy Lee 46 LRC caters to adventurers ready to explore the open seas with confidence.
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 1979 Cheoy Lee 46 LRC | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $189,500 | $179,900 | $179,900 | $159,950 | $139,000 | $130,000 |
| Location | Hilton Head Island | North Myrtle Beach | Myrtle Beach | Hilton Head Island | Mount Pleasant | Port Royal |
| Nominal Length | 46' | 34' | 34' | 36' | 49' | 28' |
| Engine Make | Ford Lehman | Yanmar | Yanmar | Cummins | Ford Lehman | Cutwater |
| Total Engine Power | 120 hp | 370 hp | 370 hp | 210 hp | 120 hp | 260 hp |
| Days on Market | 228 | 26 | 199 | 626 | 109 | 1 |
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Contact Lux Yachts about 1979 Cheoy Lee 46 LRC
106 Gordon B Hinckley Ave, Rincon, GA, 31326
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