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1973 Columbia 45Sold

$10,000

Used
We will let you know when another 1973 Columbia 45 is available in Freeport, TX

Boat in Freeport, TX 77541 US

builtBuilt in 1973
Year the boat was built
model

45

Boat model
engine

--

Engine type and count
length

45 feet

Overall boat length
fuel

--

Fuel type
material

Fiberglass/Reinforced

Hull material
Stock # 177113
Columbia 45 - EV-Ready Cruiser - $10,000 OBO

Hull Type: Fiberglass Monohull

Designer: William H. Tripp Jr.

LOA: 45' 3"

Beam: 12' 4"

Draft: 7' 4"

Displacement: Approx. 26,500 lbs

Ballast: 10,500 lbs (Iron)

Keel: Fin keel

Rig Type: Masthead Sloop

Engine: None installed (See below)



There is a recent valuation and condition survey. Estimated As-Is valuation is $26,800.

Two minor issues flagged: one float switch and one ½" seacock need replacing.



EV Ready: The engine compartment is clean and prepped for easy installation of an EV propulsion system. Mounting brackets, reduction gears, and emergency power shutoff is included. Add a battery bank, a motor, controller, a throttle, and you're ready to go. This boat was used as a test platform for five different EV systems, so I got really good at installing/uninstalling/testing different systems on on her. Fantail is large enough to support more than 1kw of solar panels (not included). Regenerate power by sailing. If you prefer a genset the 140-gallon diesel tank is cleaned and prepped for use and there is a LOT of space in the engine compartment for a brand-new battery bank with a 40-mile range. Cost for the batteries would be about $3,000.



We once did an bluewater crossing with a 15kwh battery bank and a 12kw motor. Motored the first 20 miles to get out of the slip and into open water. Sailed the next 60 miles regenerating power. When the winds died down, motored for the next 20 miles until the winds picked up. Sailed the next 50 miles regenerating power. Motored the last 10 miles to our destination up a river. Battery bank was never below 50 percent at any point in the trip. When we reach our new slip we needed less than $1 in electricity to top off the bank. Zero fuel onboard, no generator, no solar panels.



Please reach out to me about any and all questions.



-Description

This Columbia 45 is a solid, well-built offshore cruiser designed by Bill Tripp, ideal for someone seeking a liveaboard or long-range sailing project. With classic lines and a spacious interior, this vessel combines old-school fiberglass toughness with major modern upgrades to electrical and climate systems. The boat is clean and structurally sound, with a freshly painted and empty engine compartment, making it a blank slate for propulsion installation. Over the past 18 years it has been hauled out multiple times for maintenance.



-Recent Upgrades

Complete electrical overhaul (all wiring replaced)

New outlets and LED lighting fixtures throughout

Two new Dometic air conditioners (12k BTU and 16k BTU)

Large installed refrigerator/freezer can run off 120VAC or 12VDC

Custom marine-grade aluminum cockpit frame

Mast steps installed for easy ascending

Clean, freshly painted engine bay ready for engine install



-Interior Features

Large salon with excellent headroom

Comfortable layout for liveaboard use

All-new electric and lighting installed to ABYC standards

Dedicated shower stall (needs plumbing reconnection)

Ample ventilation and A/C coverage



-Included electronics

Furuno NavNet 3D Ultra High Definition (UHD) Digital Radar

Furuno NavNet 3D MFD8 Multi-Function Display

Furuno GPS/WAAS Sensor (NMEA 2000)

Maretron SSC200 Solid State Compass (NMEA 2000)

Furuno Navnet Network Sounder, DDF1

Furuno 600W Bronze Thru-hull Transducer, 46/10 degree angle beam

Furuno Sirius Satellite Weather Receiver w/Antenna

Furuno Furuno Navnet 3D Hub 101 (Ethernet)

Furuno NAVPILOT 511 Auto Pilot

Furuno Wind Package Depth/Speed/Wind with DST-800PSF, FI5001, FI501, FI503

Lofrans Tigres Anodized Horizontal Electric Anchor Windlass, Rope / 3/8 BBB Chain, 12v



-Included sails

Large 180 genoa (good condition)

Jib (great condition, needs minor repair)

Main (great condition)

Spare Mail (good condition, needs minor repair)

Spare Jib (good condition)



-Needs Attention

Fore stay replacement. I have the wire rope but need two connectors.

Topside paint and cosmetic refinish

Shower re-piping to complete plumbing

Canvas cover for cockpit frame (pattern included)

Automatic float switch replacement for one of the two bilge pumps

One ½" thru-hull seacock needs replacing



-Why This Columbia 45?

The Columbia 45 is well-regarded for her offshore capabilities, roomy interior, and solid fiberglass construction. This particular vessel is a great candidate for someone with the skills or resources to complete the engine and rigging work. Whether you're looking for a capable cruiser or a liveaboard platform, this Columbia offers tremendous potential at a project-friendly price.
Nominal Length
45ft
Length Overall
45ft
Beam
11ft
Max Draft
7ft
Hull Material
fiberglass

Price History

DateEventPrice
9/30/25Price decreased$10,000(-71.4%)
8/29/25Price increased$35,000(+100.0%)
7/9/25Initial price$17,500

1973 Columbia 45 Video Tours

Overview from around the web 1973 Columbia 45

Customers praise the 1973 Columbia 45 for its classic design, spacious interior, and solid construction

Many highlight its comfortable accommodations, making it ideal for extended cruising. Owners appreciate the boat's balanced sailing performance and the quality craftsmanship typical of Columbia yachts from that era. The combination of traditional styling with reliable handling continues to appeal to sailors who value both aesthetics and functionality. Overall, the 1973 Columbia 45 is regarded as a timeless cruiser that offers a rewarding sailing experience.

The Biggest Pros and Cons

The 1973 Columbia 45 is a classic cruising sailboat known for its solid construction and spacious interior. Here are some of the pros and cons of this model:

Pros

Sturdy Build: The Columbia 45 features a robust fiberglass hull that provides durability and stability in various sea conditions.

Spacious Interior: Designed with comfort in mind, it offers ample living space, including multiple cabins and a roomy salon, making it ideal for extended cruising.

Good Sailing Performance: With a well-balanced sail plan and moderate displacement, the boat delivers reliable and comfortable sailing characteristics.

Classic Design: Its timeless styling appeals to enthusiasts of traditional yachts and adds to its charm and resale value.

Solid Reputation: The Columbia 45 has a history of being a dependable cruiser, supported by a strong community of owners and enthusiasts.

Cons

Older Design: Being a boat from the early 1970s, some design aspects may feel dated compared to modern cruisers, such as less efficient use of space or outdated hardware.

Maintenance Requirements: As with many vintage boats, ongoing maintenance and potential upgrades may be necessary to keep systems and fittings in good working order.

Weight and Speed: The moderate displacement means it’s not the fastest boat in its class and may be slower in light wind conditions.

Limited Modern Amenities: Standard equipment and onboard systems might lack the conveniences found on newer vessels, requiring retrofitting for modern comforts.

Made For

The 1973 Columbia 45 is designed for sailing enthusiasts who seek a spacious and comfortable cruiser with strong performance capabilities. Ideal for families, couples, or small groups looking to enjoy extended coastal cruising or offshore passages, this yacht offers ample living space, reliable handling, and classic styling. Its robust construction and thoughtful layout make it well-suited for sailors who value both comfort and seaworthiness on longer voyages.

Finance your dream boat!

Use our boat payment calculator to estimate monthly payments for 1973 Columbia 45. Enter your down payment, choose a loan term, and adjust the interest rate to see an instant payment estimate — ideal if you're calculating boat payments before you enquire. Wondering how much does a Sail Cruiser cost in today's market, or how much does a Columbia cost for similar models? This boat financing calculator helps you compare scenarios in seconds, whether you're considering used boat financing or a new purchase.
Monthly payment
$113.50/mo
$
$
Loan amount$ 10,000
OR
%

Finance your dream boat!

Use our boat payment calculator to estimate monthly payments for 1973 Columbia 45. Enter your down payment, choose a loan term, and adjust the interest rate to see an instant payment estimate — ideal if you're calculating boat payments before you enquire. Wondering how much does a Sail Cruiser cost in today's market, or how much does a Columbia cost for similar models? This boat financing calculator helps you compare scenarios in seconds, whether you're considering used boat financing or a new purchase.
Monthly payment
$113.50/mo
$
$
Loan amount$ 10,000
OR
%

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12110 Port Grace Blvd, La Vista, NE, 68128

By checking this box, I consent to receive recurring marketing text messages, phone calls, and emails from National Vehicle LLC at the number and email provided, including messages sent using an autodialer or prerecorded voice. Message frequency varies. Message and data rates may apply. Reply STOP to opt out or HELP for assistance. Consent is not a condition of purchase. We'll also send helpful email updates about your boat search. You can unsubscribe whenever you like. See Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

Contact National Vehicle LLC

12110 Port Grace Blvd, La Vista, NE, 68128

By checking this box, I consent to receive recurring marketing text messages, phone calls, and emails from National Vehicle LLC at the number and email provided, including messages sent using an autodialer or prerecorded voice. Message frequency varies. Message and data rates may apply. Reply STOP to opt out or HELP for assistance. Consent is not a condition of purchase. We'll also send helpful email updates about your boat search. You can unsubscribe whenever you like. See Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

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