• Slide: The Image of Sailboat docked in marina, Custom BILL LEE 40, 1973 model, with visible deck and rigging. - 5The Image of Sailboat docked in marina, Custom BILL LEE 40, 1973 model, with visible deck and rigging. - 5
    Slide: The Image of Sailboat deck view of 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40, docked at marina. - 6The Image of Sailboat deck view of 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40, docked at marina. - 6
    Slide: The Image of Deck of 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 sailboat with winch and rigging details. - 7The Image of Deck of 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 sailboat with winch and rigging details. - 7
    Slide: The Image of Deck of 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 sailboat with rigging and fittings visible. - 8The Image of Deck of 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 sailboat with rigging and fittings visible. - 8
    Slide: The Image of Winch on deck of 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 sailboat, with marina background. - 9The Image of Winch on deck of 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 sailboat, with marina background. - 9
    Slide: The Image of Winch on 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 sailboat deck, with rope and railing visible. - 10The Image of Winch on 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 sailboat deck, with rope and railing visible. - 10
    Slide: The Image of Open hatch on 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 sailboat deck, revealing internal components. - 11The Image of Open hatch on 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 sailboat deck, revealing internal components. - 11
    Slide: The Image of Covered grill on a 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 sailboat docked by the water. - 12The Image of Covered grill on a 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 sailboat docked by the water. - 12
  • Slide: The Image of Marina with sailboats and yachts under clear blue sky, featuring a 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40. - 13The Image of Marina with sailboats and yachts under clear blue sky, featuring a 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40. - 13
    Slide: The Image of Cockpit of 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 sailboat docked at marina. - 14The Image of Cockpit of 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 sailboat docked at marina. - 14
    Slide: The Image of B&G Network Pilot device on a 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 yacht. - 15The Image of B&G Network Pilot device on a 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 yacht. - 15
    Slide: The Image of Cockpit instruments on a 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 sailboat, featuring wind and sea data displays. - 16The Image of Cockpit instruments on a 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 sailboat, featuring wind and sea data displays. - 16
    Slide: The Image of Control panel of 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 sailboat with navigation instruments. - 17The Image of Control panel of 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 sailboat with navigation instruments. - 17
    Slide: The Image of Furuno NAVnet marine navigation system on 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 sailboat. - 18The Image of Furuno NAVnet marine navigation system on 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 sailboat. - 18
    Slide: The Image of Fishfinder device mounted inside a 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 boat cabin. - 19The Image of Fishfinder device mounted inside a 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 boat cabin. - 19
    Slide: The Image of Interior of 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 sailboat with cozy seating and wooden flooring. - 20The Image of Interior of 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 sailboat with cozy seating and wooden flooring. - 20
  • Slide: The Image of Interior of a 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 sailboat with cozy sleeping area and wooden accents. - 21The Image of Interior of a 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 sailboat with cozy sleeping area and wooden accents. - 21
    Slide: The Image of Cozy cabin interior of 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 sailboat with bedding and wooden paneling. - 22The Image of Cozy cabin interior of 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 sailboat with bedding and wooden paneling. - 22
    Slide: The Image of Interior of 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 yacht with TV and striped seating. - 23The Image of Interior of 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 yacht with TV and striped seating. - 23
    Slide: The Image of Compact marine heater inside a 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 sailboat, featuring a Dickinson model. - 24The Image of Compact marine heater inside a 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 sailboat, featuring a Dickinson model. - 24
    Slide: The Image of Interior of a 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 yacht with modern TV and audio equipment. - 25The Image of Interior of a 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 yacht with modern TV and audio equipment. - 25
    Slide: The Image of Interior of a 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 yacht featuring a compact bathroom with a stainless steel toilet. - 26The Image of Interior of a 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 yacht featuring a compact bathroom with a stainless steel toilet. - 26
    Slide: The Image of Stainless steel sink in 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 yacht bathroom with soap dispenser. - 27The Image of Stainless steel sink in 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 yacht bathroom with soap dispenser. - 27
    Slide: The Image of Interior of a 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 yacht, featuring a compact kitchen area. - 28The Image of Interior of a 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 yacht, featuring a compact kitchen area. - 28
  • Slide: The Image of Interior of a 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 yacht with kitchen and wooden stairs. - 29The Image of Interior of a 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 yacht with kitchen and wooden stairs. - 29
    Slide: The Image of Vintage 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 yacht stove with red towels in cozy cabin setting. - 30The Image of Vintage 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 yacht stove with red towels in cozy cabin setting. - 30
    Slide: The Image of Kitchen area of a 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 yacht with a built-in oven. - 31The Image of Kitchen area of a 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 yacht with a built-in oven. - 31
    Slide: The Image of Interior of a 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 yacht with wooden cabinetry and navigation equipment. - 32The Image of Interior of a 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 yacht with wooden cabinetry and navigation equipment. - 32
    Slide: The Image of Interior of a 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 sailboat with navigation equipment and map. - 33The Image of Interior of a 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 sailboat with navigation equipment and map. - 33
    Slide: The Image of Navigation station of a 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 sailboat with charts and instruments. - 34The Image of Navigation station of a 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 sailboat with charts and instruments. - 34
    Slide: The Image of Electrical control panel on a 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 sailboat. - 35The Image of Electrical control panel on a 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 sailboat. - 35
    Slide: The Image of Control panel of a 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 sailboat with radio and navigation equipment. - 36The Image of Control panel of a 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 sailboat with radio and navigation equipment. - 36
  • Slide: The Image of Control panel of a 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 sailboat with wiring and switches. - 37The Image of Control panel of a 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 sailboat with wiring and switches. - 37
    Slide: The Image of Control panel inside a 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 yacht, featuring switches and storage compartments. - 38The Image of Control panel inside a 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 yacht, featuring switches and storage compartments. - 38
    Slide: The Image of Engine compartment of a 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 sailboat, featuring bolts and ventilation. - 39The Image of Engine compartment of a 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 sailboat, featuring bolts and ventilation. - 39
    Slide: The Image of Interior of a 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 yacht with Engel cooler and storage items. - 40The Image of Interior of a 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 yacht with Engel cooler and storage items. - 40
    Slide: The Image of Control panel of a 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 boat by Buxton Boat Works. - 41The Image of Control panel of a 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 boat by Buxton Boat Works. - 41
    Slide: The Image of Marina with sailboats under cloudy sky, featuring a 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40. - 42The Image of Marina with sailboats under cloudy sky, featuring a 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40. - 42
    Slide: The Image of Storage compartment on 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 sailboat with red Honda generator. - 43The Image of Storage compartment on 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 sailboat with red Honda generator. - 43
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1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 Boat in Long Beach, CA 90802 US

$49,900

Used
builtBuilt in 1973
Year the boat was built
model

BILL LEE 40

Boat model
engine

1 Engine (YANMAR)

Engine type and count
length

40 feet

Overall boat length
fuel

Diesel

Fuel type
material

Fiberglass/Reinforced

Hull material

Panache - 1973 Bill Lee Custom 40

Designer/Builder: William "Bill" Lee
Year launched: 1973
Length: 40 feet
Type: Custom offshore racing sloop
Design philosophy: Ultra-light displacement / high-performance sailing yacht
Original owner: Roderic "Rod" Park
Home port: San Francisco Bay area

Bill Lee's Panache was one of the first major custom boats from Lee's early Santa Cruz/Soquel boatbuilding operation. The Sailing Museum identifies Panache as a 40-footer and one of the important early boats through which Lee developed his famous philosophy of "light is fast - fast is fun."

A significant Transpac boat

This is where Panache gets particularly interesting.

Panache competed in the 1973 Transpacific Yacht Race, sailing from Los Angeles to Honolulu. Bill Lee himself sailed aboard her with Rod Park. A later account by the Cruising Club of America specifically recalls Lee sailing on Panache in 1973.

She subsequently proved herself as a serious offshore racer:


RaceResult1973 Transpac2nd in Class B1975 Transpac2nd in Class B1977 Transpac5th in her class1978 TranspacRaced again1980 Singlehanded TranspacRaced by Rod ParkWhat makes her historically important

Panache was essentially one of the foundation boats of the Bill Lee ULDB movement.

Lee was experimenting with a radically different concept for offshore racing: instead of building a conventional heavy 40-footer, he focused on reducing displacement and maximizing speed. The idea was to create a boat capable of accelerating onto a plane and surfing downwind in ocean conditions.

That philosophy eventually produced some of the most famous lightweight racing boats in America-including Chutzpah and, later, the legendary Merlin.

Nominal Length
40ft
Length Overall
39.5ft
Beam
13ft
Max Draft
7ft
Dry Weight
10000lb
Cruising Speed
6kn
Max Speed
8kn
Hull Material
fiberglass
Hull Shape
planing
Engine 1
Engine Make
YANMAR
Engine Model
3MG
Total Power
30hp
Engine Type
inboard
Fuel Type
diesel
Engine Year
2004
Propeller Type
2-blade
SAILING EQUIPMENT

ROLLER FURLING

MAIN/ KEVLAR/DACRON (QUANTUM)

155% REACHER

ASYMMETRICAL SPINN (QUANTUM)

SYMMETRICAL SPINN (SMYTH)

2 SPINNAKER POLES

HARD VANG

COCKPIT TRAVLER

TILLER

2 ST PRIMARY WINCHES

2 ST SPINNAKER POLES

6 CABIN TOP ROPE CLUTCHES

2 CABIN TOP HALYARD WINCHES

2 MAST HALYARD WINCHES

NAVTEC HYDDRAULIC BACKSTAY ADJUSTER

REEFING SYSTEM

GALLEY

FORCE 2 BRUNER PROPANE STOVE/OVEN W/SHUTOFF

SS SINK

PRESSURE HOT/COLD WATER

 NOVACOOL DUEL 12/110 REFER/REFRIGERATOR

ADDITIONAL 12 VOLT  ICE BOX

COFFEE MAKER

GREAT STORAGE

NEW WAVE 110 VAC CONVECTION OVEN


ADDITIONAL EQUIPMENT

LEWMAR ELECTRIC WINDLASS

DELTA 16  ANCHOR W/CHAIN  70' AND RODE 250'

12LB DANFORTH  ANCHOR 25' CHAIN/100' RODE

SS BOW AND STERN PULPITS

DOUBLE LIFELINES

2000 WATT HONDA GAS GENERATOR HOOKED INTO BOAT SYSTEM

TRACVISION

CABIN HEATER

BBQ

LIFESLING

AFT DECK LIGHT

2 BULKHEAD COMPASSES

MIAMI SHADE CANOPY W/3 POINT SHADE CURTAINS

CUSTOM TEAK AND HOLLEY COCKPIT TABLE

FRESH WATER WASH DOWN 

OUTSIDE BOSE SPEAKERS 

NEW INTERIOR UPHOLSTERY 

NEW MAIN SAIL COVER


ELECTRONICS

ICOM VHF W/COCKPIT REMOTE

STEREO

FURUNO GPS PLOTTER

FURUNO 24 MILE COLOR RADAR

B & G AUTOPILOT

COM NAV WINDPOINT/SPEED/DATA CENTER

2 COLOR FLAT SCREEN MONITORS (MAIN SALON/AFT CABIN W/REMOTES

ALL NEW CG APPROVED WIRING AND PANELS

ACCOMODATIONS

THERE IS A FORWARD DOUBLE BERTH PORT SIDE W/A SINGLE ON STARBOARD

AFT OF THAT IS A PORT HEAD AND TO STARBOARD A SINK

MIDSHIPS IS A CENTERLINE TABLE W/SETTEES PORT AND STARBOARD W/PILOT BERTH ON PORT

AFT BEHIND THE GALLEY AND NAV STATION IS A LARGE STARBORD DOUBLE UNDER THE COCKPIT WITH A SINGLE TO PORT


THE INTERIOR WAS CUSTOM BY BUXTON BOATWORKS 

Disclaimer

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

DateEventPrice
9/9/26Initial price$49,900

Contact The Shoreline Yacht Group

Cabrillo Marina, 210 Whaler's Walk, Suite 123, San Pedro, CA, 90731

By checking this box, I consent to receive recurring marketing text messages, phone calls, and emails from The Shoreline Yacht Group 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.

Overview from around the web 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40

The 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 has garnered positive feedback from customers who appreciate its unique design and exceptional performance on the water

Owners often highlight the boat's robust construction, emphasizing its ability to withstand challenging conditions while maintaining stability and speed. One of the most praised features is the spacious cockpit, which provides ample room for socializing and enjoying time with friends and family. This makes it an ideal choice for both leisurely cruising and more active sailing adventures. Customers also admire the boat's classic aesthetic, reflecting the craftsmanship that goes into each vessel. Many users report a smooth sailing experience, attributing this to the well-balanced hull and rigging, which contribute to easy handling and responsiveness. The interior layout is often described as comfortable, making long voyages enjoyable. Overall, feedback suggests that the 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 offers a blend of performance, comfort, and timeless style that resonates well with both seasoned sailors and newcomers alike.

The Biggest Pros and Cons

Pros

Exceptional Performance: The BILL LEE 40 is known for its outstanding sailing performance, thanks to its well-designed hull and balanced rigging. It delivers both speed and stability on the water.

Custom Build Quality: As a custom-built yacht, the BILL LEE 40 often features high-quality materials and craftsmanship, tailored to the owner's specifications.

Cruising Comfort: The spacious interior layout provides ample room for relaxation and living aboard, making it suitable for long voyages or weekend getaways.

Strong Sailing Community: The BILL LEE 40 has a dedicated following among sailing enthusiasts, which can provide support, advice, and camaraderie for owners.

Durability: Built to withstand the harsh marine environment, these yachts often boast a robust construction that can last for decades with proper care.

Cons

Maintenance: As with any older vessel, the 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 may require regular maintenance and upgrades, which can be time-consuming and costly.

Age-Related Limitations: Being a vintage model, some systems (like electronics) may be outdated and could need modern replacements or refurbishments.

Limited Availability of Parts: Finding specific parts for older models might be challenging, especially for custom-built components.

Resale Value: Older custom boats may not always retain their value in the same way newer models do, affecting resale opportunities.

Specialized Knowledge Required: The unique design features of the BILL LEE 40 might require knowledge or experience with specialized handling and maintenance practices, which could deter less experienced sailors.

Made For

The 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40 is designed for passionate sailors and performance enthusiasts who seek an exhilarating experience on the water. Ideal for experienced sailors, this boat offers a perfect balance of classic aesthetics and modern sailing technology. With its sleek lines and robust construction, the BILL LEE 40 appeals to those who value craftsmanship and durability. This vessel is perfect for cruising enthusiasts looking for a comfortable long-range sailboat, as well as competitive racers eager for a high-performance yacht that can dominate the racecourse. Families or groups that enjoy recreational sailing will also appreciate the spacious layout and amenities designed for comfort on extended trips. Whether you're planning to circumnavigate the globe, dive into weekend racing, or simply enjoy leisurely days on the water, the Custom BILL LEE 40 is a versatile choice that meets the needs of diverse sailing lifestyles.

Finance your dream boat!

Use our boat payment calculator to estimate monthly payments for 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40. 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 Racer/Cruiser cost in today's market, or how much does a Custom 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.
$
$
510152025
%
Principal Loan Amount$ 42,415
Total Payment$75,836.44
Monthly payment
$315.99/mo

Finance your dream boat!

Use our boat payment calculator to estimate monthly payments for 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40. 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 Racer/Cruiser cost in today's market, or how much does a Custom 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.
$
$
510152025
%
Principal Loan Amount$ 42,415
Total Payment$75,836.44
Monthly payment
$315.99/mo

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LocationLong BeachMarina Del ReyLong BeachSan DiegoSan DiegoMoss Landing
Nominal Length40'32'43'38'41'50'
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Meet the Broker

Address

Cabrillo Marina
210 Whaler's Walk, Suite 123
San Pedro, CA 90731

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Contact The Shoreline Yacht Group about 1973 Custom BILL LEE 40

Cabrillo Marina, 210 Whaler's Walk, Suite 123, San Pedro, CA, 90731

By checking this box, I consent to receive recurring marketing text messages, phone calls, and emails from The Shoreline Yacht Group 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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