1996 Colvin Gazelle Boat in Tracys Landing, MD 20779 US
Built in 1996
Gazelle
1 Engine (Sabb)
42 feet
Diesel
Steel
Key Highlights
• Thomas Colvin Gazelle design, custom built in Cor-Ten steel by Dolphin Marine (1996); only two owners - the builder and the current owner
• 2022 survey with ultrasonic hull-thickness gauging showing no loss of plate
• Freestanding, keel-stepped aluminum masts with interchangeable sails and all control lines led to the cockpit
• Proven offshore: roughly 10,000 miles with the current owner, including Bermuda and Florida-Cape Cod passages
• Awlgrip hull (2022), topsides (2026), and bottom blasted, barrier-coated and repainted (2025)
• Sabb lifeboat diesel with variable-pitch prop and keel cooling; 6 knots on ½-¾ gal/hr, 82 gal. fuel
• ~450 Ah lithium bank with cell-level monitoring (2024), 135A Balmar alternator, 380W tilting solar (2018)
• Garmin NMEA 2000 navigation suite with HD radar and AIS; Raymarine linear-drive autopilot plus Sailomat 600 wind vane
• Always stored ashore when unattended for more than two months
Vessel Overview
AKA is a Gazelle, designed by noted naval architect Thomas Colvin and custom built by Dolphin Marine of Jupiter, Florida, who launched her in 1996. Her hull and deck are Cor-Ten steel, with 3/4" epoxy-impregnated cabin tops and hard dodger, and she is insulated with sprayed foam above the waterline. Two tapered aluminum freestanding masts, keel-stepped at the bow and amidships, carry interchangeable sails, and every sail control line is led to the cockpit for safe short-handed sailing.
The current owner bought AKA from her builder in 2014 at Green Turtle Cay in the Bahamas, making him only her second owner. Since then she has made numerous trips between Florida, the Keys and the Bahamas, run from Florida to Cape Cod largely offshore, and sailed from Hampton, Virginia to Bermuda, where she spent a year. She is now based on the Chesapeake Bay and is hauled ashore whenever she is left for more than two months.
In the owner's words, across some 10,000 miles she has kept him safe through some genuinely demanding conditions. A 2022 survey with ultrasonic thickness gauging found no degradation of her steel, and recent work includes professional Awlgrip on the hull (2022), a fully renewed bottom (2025), and a lithium house bank with cell-level monitoring (2024).
Design & pedigree
Thomas Colvin Gazelle
Hull number / production run
Custom one-off build; no hull number
Ownership history
Two owners: the builder (1996-2014) and the current owner (since 2014)
How she has been used
Extended coastal and offshore cruising
Cruising grounds & water
Bahamas, Florida & Keys, US East Coast to Cape Cod, Bermuda (one year); now Chesapeake Bay
Storage & care
Always stored on land when left for longer than two months
Reason for sale
Change in the owner's plans
Principal Specifications
Identification & Construction
Builder / Model / Year
Dolphin Marine / Colvin Gazelle / 1996
Designer
Thomas E. Colvin
Hull material
Cor-Ten steel; sprayed-foam insulation above the waterline
Deck material
Cor-Ten steel deck; 3/4" epoxy-impregnated cabin tops and hard dodger
Hull color
Awlgrip Boston Whaler Blue (H5462)
Boot stripe
Awlgrip Teal (H5328)
Bottom
Pettit Trinidad Pro, red then black
Keel type
Long shoal keel incorporating 48 gal. steel fuel tank
Rudder type
Keel-hung on pintles
Rig type
Twin Masted Cat Ketch with freestanding masts and interchangeable sails
Masts
Tapered aluminum, keel-stepped at the bow and amidships
Dimensions & Performance
LOA
47' 0"
LOD
42'2"
LWL
33' 0"
Beam
11' 4" (11.33 ft)
Draft
4' 6"
Air draft / bridge clearance
48 ft above waterline
Displacement
22,000 lb (ballast ratio approx. 34%)
Ballast
7,500 lb
Cruising speed / fuel burn
6 knots at ½-¾ gal/hr; approx. 650-980 nm motoring range on 82 gal. (calculated)
Accommodation Summary
Cabins / berths
Aft cabin with queen berth; two 7 ft salon settees serve as guest berths
Heads / showers
1 head with shower
Layout
Forepeak workshop/storage; salon with galley; center cockpit; aft cabin with chart table and engine room access
Recent Upgrades & Maintenance History
DateItem / work performed
2026
Topsides refinished in Awlgrip - Owner
2025
Bottom blasted to existing barrier coat; new barrier coats; two coats Pettit Trinidad Pro (red, then black) - Annapolis Gelcoat & Restoration, Herrington Harbour North. Contrasting coats act as wear indicator
New zincs on prop and keel cooler
2024
Lithium house bank (~450 Ah) with BMS and cell-level monitoring
Electric Vehicle Enterprises; BMS by Sea Tek Marine; monitoring by Elite Power Solutions
2022
Hull refinished in Awlgrip - Edward R. Gray, Dandy Haven Marina, Hampton VA
Survey with ultrasonic thickness gauging - no degradation found - J. L. Olson Marine Services Report available
2018
380W tilting solar panel with Victron controller -Sea Tek Marine Systems Specialists, Marathon FL
2015-17
Garmin navigation suite with HD radar and AIS, all on NMEA 2000
1995
Sabb 2JHVP diesel installed (original) - Builder
Accommodations & Interior
Forepeak
Dedicated storage and workshop with workbench and vise, line storage, deck prism for natural light
Main salon
Two 7 ft settees (guest berths); extensive storage for galley and boat supplies; two cabin-top hatches
Aft cabin
Spacious queen berth; storage; chart table; entry via aft companionway and engine room; immediate access to helm with view of chart plotter
Head & shower
Lavac head; shower with sump pump (see Plumbing)
Joinery & finish
Matched-grain Florida pine sole throughout; eighteen coats of varnish on all interior woodwork; other exposed surfaces white Formica
Upholstery & cushions
Salon cushions (Sunbrella covers)
Companionways, hatches & ports
Two companionways (fore and aft of cockpit); two salon hatches; 24 opening ports bow to stern
Lighting
LED lighting
Entertainment
Alpine stereo with speakers in salon, cockpit and aft cabin; 12V TV
Galley
Stove / oven
Force 10 two-burner propane stove with oven
Refrigeration
Adler Barbour refrigerator/freezer - Controller Failed, Needs Replacement
Sink & water
Galley sink with hot and cold fresh water, salt water, and filtered drinking water via Seagull IV X-1F purifier
Storage
Extensive salon storage for galley supplies
Propane system
Three 20 lb aluminum tanks in vented lockers serving galley and grill; stove fed via two solenoid-controlled tanks
Safety
CO/smoke detector, operating
Engine & Propulsion
Engine make / model
Sabb 2JHVP lifeboat diesel, serial 174AB
Horsepower
30 HP
Fuel type / cooling
Diesel; freshwater keel cooler
Year installed / hours
1995; approx. 2,758 hours (5 October 2026)
Propeller
Variable-pitch propeller
Shaft coupling
Evolution flexible shaft coupling
Fuel filtration
Dual pre-filter fuel polishing system
Alternators
135A Balmar (house) and separate 85A (start battery)
Lubrication
Consolidated lubrication panel for steering and propulsion
Engine room
Walk-through from aft cabin; deck prisms port and starboard flood it with natural light
Zincs
New on propeller and keel cooler
Service history
Owner-maintained to the manufacturer's service schedule
Generator
None
Tankage
Fresh water 4 x 25 gal. Nylon Salon, forward and amidships Manifold-valved for isolation and trim
Fuel 48 gal plus 34 gal in two day tanks
Holding 8 gal.
Totals
Fuel 82 gal.; water 100 gal.; holding 8 gal.
Tank monitoring
Gauges on wing (day) tanks; keel tank by dipstick
Plumbing & Water Systems
Pressure water
FloJet 2100 pumps (2.3 gpm), common to fresh water, salt water and shower sump; 1 liter accumulator tank
Hot water
Atlantic Marine T4 stainless water heater, 6 gal.
Watermaker
Katadyn Power Survivor 35, 12V or manual, approx. 1.5 gal/hr
Drinking water
Seagull IV X-1F purification system at galley
Head
Lavac with fresh- or seawater flush; valved for overboard discharge or 8 gal. holding tank
Bilge pumps
Electric bilge pumps in salon and aft cabin (aft float switch requires attention); Whale manual bilge pump
Seawater intake
Single seawater pick-up to brass sea chest with manifold to all uses
Through-hulls
Delrin through-hulls, valved, with stopper bungs at every location
Electrical Systems
AC system
Shore power
120V and 240V capability; shore power cords and adapters included
Inverter / charger
Heart Interface Freedom 20 (2,000W) with Link 2000R remote
DC system & charging
House bank
Approx. 450 Ah lithium in vented box (2024), from Electric Vehicle Enterprises
BMS & monitoring
BMS installed by Sea Tek Marine; digital monitoring of individual cells and the whole pack by Elite Power Solutions
Engine start battery
Separate battery in its own box, charged by dedicated 85A alternator
Charging
135A Balmar alternator; 380W (78V) tilting solar panel with Victron controller (2018)
Spare
Spare 135A Balmar alternator
Heating, Cooling & Ventilation
Air conditioning / heat
Ocean Marine reverse-cycle air conditioning/heat with digital thermostat
Insulation
Sprayed foam above the waterline
Ventilation
24 opening ports; two salon hatches; Dorade vents; deck prisms
Electronics & Navigation
Chartplotter
Garmin chartplotter with full suite of Garmin navigation displays (2015-17)
Radar
Garmin HD radar
AIS
AIS transceiver (send/receive) with separate antenna
Instruments
Garmin wind and navigation instruments
Network
NMEA 2000 linking all components
Autopilot
Raymarine S1G course computer with linear drive and ST6002 control head, with remote
Wind-vane self-steering
Sailomat 600
Compass
Ritchie at helm
Other
Radar reflector
VHF radio
Standard Horizon
Entertainment
Alpine stereo; 12V TV
Sails
Mainsail (fore mast) Posey Sailmakers, Palm Beach FL 1996 - Intact and functional; nearing replacement
Mainsail (aft mast) Posey Sailmakers, Palm Beach FL 1996 Intact and functional; nearing replacement
Sail handling Interchangeable sails; all control lines led to cockpit
Sail covers Sunbrella, Persian Green
Spars & Rigging
Masts - Two tapered aluminum freestanding masts, keel-stepped at the bow and amidships; 48 ft above waterline
Halyards -Twin halyards on each mast
Standing rigging - None - freestanding rig
Mast lighting -Masthead anchor light needs rewiring (wire included)
Winches Lewmar
Deck, Cockpit & Hull
Deck & Cockpit
Deck finish Awlgrip topsides (2026)
Cockpit Center cockpit with Bimini and screen enclosure for sun, wind and rain; hard dodger; cockpit cushions
Lifelines 42 in. safety lines all around
Aft deck Clear for recreation and dinghy stowage, with cranes port and starboard
Grill Magma grill
Hull & Underbody
Hull finish Awlgrip Boston Whaler Blue with Teal boot stripe (2022)
Bottom Blasted to existing barrier coat (2025), new barrier coats, two coats Pettit Trinidad Pro
Hull thickness Ultrasonic gauging (2022 survey) showed no degradation; earlier sounding reports also available
Zincs New, propeller and keel cooler
Canvas & Covers
Color All Sunbrella, Persian Green
Bimini Covers full cockpit - needs repair
Shade covers Two bow-to-stern shade covers
Other covers Sail covers, spray skirts, windlass, diesel containers, hatches, winches, Dorades, grill, radar, salon and cockpit cushions
Extra fabric Spare Sunbrella fabric included
Condition Most canvas functional; some needs stitching repair or replacement
Ground Tackle & Mooring
Primary anchor & rode 65 lb Bruce with 200 ft BBB chain
Windlass Tigress, controlled at the bow
Secondary anchors Two Danforths on rail mounts (bow and stern), each with 100 ft of 3/4 in rope rode
Docking Dock lines and fenders
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 10/7/26 | Initial price | $89,950 |
Videos from Integrity Yacht Sales on this 1996 Colvin Gazelle
1996 Colvin Gazelle Video Tours
Overview from around the web 1996 Colvin Gazelle
The 1996 Colvin Gazelle has received positive reviews from boat enthusiasts and owners alike, highlighting its unique combination of craftsmanship and performance
Customers often praise the boat's sturdy construction and reliable handling, making it a favorite for both coastal cruising and longer voyages. Owners appreciate the spaciousness and thoughtful layout of the interior, which offers comfortable accommodations and ample storage. The classic design, featuring beautiful woodwork and elegant lines, is frequently mentioned as a standout quality that turns heads on the water. Additionally, the sailing capabilities of the Gazelle are frequently lauded, with many noting its responsive keel design and impressive stability even in varied conditions. This makes it not only an enjoyable vessel for experienced sailors but also a reliable choice for those new to sailing. Overall, the 1996 Colvin Gazelle is regarded as a well-built, beautiful boat that delivers on both aesthetics and performance, creating lasting satisfaction for its owners.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 1996 Colvin Gazelle is a beloved design among sailing enthusiasts for its unique blend of classic aesthetics and modern performance capabilities. Below are some of the pros and cons associated with this vessel:
Pros
Sturdy Construction: The Colvin Gazelle is known for its robust build quality, often featuring durable materials that enhance longevity and seaworthiness.
Elegant Design: With its traditional lines and graceful profile, the Gazelle boasts a timeless beauty that appeals to many sailing purists.
Good Performance: This model is designed for effective sailing, offering good speed and handling characteristics in various wind conditions.
Ample Living Space: The interior layout provides comfortable accommodations, making it suitable for extended cruising or liveaboard situations.
Customization Options: Many owners appreciate the level of customization available, allowing for modifications to suit personal tastes and sailing preferences.
Strong Community: The Colvin brand has a loyal following, and owners often benefit from a supportive community sharing tips, modifications, and experiences.
Cons
Maintenance Requirements: Like many older vessels, the Gazelle may require regular upkeep to maintain its performance and appearance, which can be labor-intensive.
Older Technology: Being a 1996 model, some features may lack the modern advancements found in newer boats, impacting efficiency and comfort.
Limited Availability of Parts: Depending on the specific modifications made to individual boats, sourcing parts and replacements may occasionally present challenges.
Weather Sensitivity: While sturdy, the design may not be suited for extreme weather conditions without additional reinforcement or upgrades.
Less Familiarity for New Sailors: Those unfamiliar with traditional sailing vessels may find the handling and systems onboard a bit daunting compared to more modern designs.
Made For
The 1996 Colvin Gazelle is an ideal choice for sailing enthusiasts who appreciate the charm of classic craftsmanship combined with modern performance. This boat is perfect for both seasoned sailors seeking a reliable vessel for coastal cruising and newcomers eager to explore the joys of sailing. Its sturdy construction and elegant lines make it an attractive option for those who value aesthetic appeal as much as functionality. Families will find the Gazelle's spacious interior and comfortable seating arrangements convenient for weekend getaways or day trips on the water. Additionally, its balanced sail plan provides an excellent opportunity for learning and improving sailing skills, making it suitable for sailing schools or clubs. Whether you’re looking for adventure on the open water or a tranquil escape, the 1996 Colvin Gazelle offers the versatility to meet the needs of various sailing lifestyles. Its combination of timeless design and practical features ensures that it will serve as a trusted companion for many memorable journeys ahead.
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 1996 Colvin Gazelle | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $89,950 | $69,900 | $69,500 | $69,500 | $59,000 | $54,950 |
| Location | Tracys Landing | Annapolis | Annapolis | Arnold | Baltimore | Tracys Landing |
| Nominal Length | 42' | 46' | 40' | 35' | 42' | 35' |
| Beam | 11' | - | - | - | - | - |
| Draft | 5' | - | - | - | - | - |
| Engine Make | Sabb | Westerbeke | Volvo Penta | Yanmar | Yanmar | Yanmar |
| Total Engine Power | 30 hp | 55 hp | 50 hp | 27 hp | 54 hp | 30 hp |
| Days on Market | 1 | 942 | 63 | 168 | 167 | 37 |
| Get in touch |
Meet the Broker
Address
Other Information about Integrity Yacht Sales
Integrity Yacht Sales is a premier yacht brokerage on the US East Coast, headquartered in Deale, MD. Customer centric, attentive, and experienced, we specialize in helping clients achieve their dreams: sailboats, trawlers, powerboats, and more.
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Boat Location
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PO Box 479, Deale, MD, 20751
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