1985 Custom Steel 53 Ketch Sold Boat in San Diego, CA US
53 Ketch
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53 feet
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Steel
Extremely well built Steel Cruiser. Over built for utility and strength. This is a sleek looking long distance adventure cruiser. Even at 55,000# this boat is fast and does 7-9 knots in our So Cal winds.
Full complement of sails include: Spinnaker, Drifter, Stay Sail, Head Sail, Main Sail, Storm Sail and others.
Current Coast Guard Certificate of Inspection (COI) for 27 Passengers for Bay Cruises and Whale Watching, Trips to Catalina.
This beautiful 3 double cabin, one large head, yacht is designed to take you around the world in safety and comfort.
Large flat wide decks, safe cockpit with cushions, large aft deck with storage and seat cushions. High safe, hard rails make you feel like you are going to sea on a much larger boat.
Equipped with all required gear and much more.
Please call for a tour and a full understanding of the usefulness and capabilities of this fine yacht.
Extremely well built Steel Cruiser. Over built for utility and strength. This is a sleek looking long distance adventure cruiser. Even at 55,000# this boat is fast and does 7-9 knots in our So Cal winds.
Full complement of sails include: Spinnaker, Drifter, Stay Sail, Head Sail, Main Sail, Storm Sail and others.
Current Coast Guard Certificate of Inspection (COI) for 27 Passengers for Bay Cruises and Whale Watching, Trips to Catalina.
This beautiful 3 double cabin, one large head, yacht is designed to take you around the world in safety and comfort.
Large flat wide decks, safe cockpit with cushions, large aft deck with storage and seat cushions. High safe, hard rails make you feel like you are going to sea on a much larger boat.
Equipped with all required gear and much more.
Please call for a tour and a full understanding of the usefulness and capabilities of this fine yacht.
Overview from around the web 1985 Custom Steel 53 Ketch
Customers praise the 1985 Custom Steel 53 Ketch for its robust construction and timeless design
Many highlight the vessel’s exceptional durability, noting that the steel hull provides excellent strength and safety, making it ideal for long voyages and challenging sea conditions. Owners appreciate the ketch rig for its versatility and ease of handling, especially during extended cruising. The spacious interior layout receives positive remarks for comfort and practicality, with ample storage and well-thought-out living spaces that accommodate both family and crew. Several customers commend the boat’s solid performance and seaworthiness, emphasizing its stability and reliable handling. Overall, feedback reflects a strong satisfaction with the 1985 Custom Steel 53 Ketch as a dependable and well-crafted sailing yacht that combines classic aesthetics with functional design.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 1985 Custom Steel 53 Ketch offers a unique blend of durability, classic design, and offshore capability, making it a standout choice for serious sailors. Here are some pros and cons to consider:
Pros
Durable Construction: Built with steel, this yacht boasts exceptional strength and resilience, providing excellent protection against harsh marine conditions and reducing maintenance concerns compared to fiberglass boats.
Spacious Interior: The 53-foot length allows for ample living space below deck, offering comfortable accommodations for extended cruising or liveaboard situations.
Ketch Rig Advantages: The ketch rig configuration provides versatile sail options, making it easier to balance the sail plan and handle in varying wind conditions, especially for shorthanded crews.
Offshore Capability: Designed for long-distance voyaging, the sturdy build and sea-kindly hull shape contribute to confident and safe offshore passages.
Classic Aesthetic: The timeless design appeals to those who appreciate traditional styling combined with functional performance.
Cons
Weight and Speed: The steel construction adds significant weight, which can result in slower speeds compared to lighter materials like aluminum or fiberglass.
Maintenance Requirements: While steel is durable, it requires regular inspection and upkeep to prevent rust and corrosion, especially in saltwater environments.
Fuel Efficiency: The heavier displacement means higher fuel consumption when motoring, which could impact operational costs on long trips.
Initial Cost: Custom-built steel yachts can have a higher upfront cost due to materials and craftsmanship involved.
Maneuverability: Larger size and heavier weight might make docking and close-quarters maneuvering more challenging, often necessitating experienced handling or additional equipment like bow thrusters.
Made For
The 1985 Custom Steel 53 Ketch is ideal for experienced sailors or adventurers seeking a robust, seaworthy vessel built for long-distance cruising. Its durable steel construction and ketch rig make it perfect for those looking to explore challenging offshore waters with confidence and comfort. This boat is well-suited for individuals or couples who value reliability, ample living space, and classic design in their sailing journeys.
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San Diego, CA

















