1978 Grand Banks 42
$99,900
Boat in Savannah, GA 31406 US
Built in 1978
42
2 Engines (Lehman, Lehman)
42 feet
Diesel
Fiberglass/Reinforced
A Great Loop veteran, La Principessa ("The Princess") is a classic 1978 Grand Banks 42 Classic that has been extensively upgraded and shows like a much newer vessel. Known for her timeless lines, efficient twin Ford Lehman diesels, and warm teak interior, she combines traditional craftsmanship with modern cruising systems-making her a perfect choice for extended cruising or full-time liveaboard life.
Lovingly maintained by experienced owners, La Principessa has recently completed the Great Loop, performing flawlessly throughout her journey while averaging under 3,000 gallons of diesel for the entire trip. Major recent updates include new teak decks, aluminum fuel tanks, poly water tanks, lithium battery bank with Xantrex inverter, and a 2010 Onan 6kW generator. With her proven reliability, thoughtful upgrades, and extensive service records (including ship's log and oil samples), she's truly turnkey and ready for her next adventure.
Highlights:
- Aluminum fuel tanks and new poly water tanks
- Both Salon Doors re-constructed from solid teak in 2022
- 2010 Onan 6kW generator (approx. 2,500 hours)
- 400AH lithium house battery bank with 3000W Xantrex inverter
- $30,000 teak deck replacement (main & side decks)
- 2 new ACs 2024
- Bottom paint, compound, buff & wax - March 2024
- Starboard transmission rebuilt (2019)
- Staysail included
- 9' Dyer Dhow tender with Sailing rig and Honda outboard included
- History of oil samples and ship's log available
Located in Savannah, Georgia, La Principessa presents in good condition and represents an outstanding opportunity for anyone looking for a proven, well-equipped trawler capable of coastal cruising, the Great Loop, or comfortable liveaboard life.
- 2022 Dyer Dhow Row
Entering through either of the two salon side doors, the main salon is bright and inviting, featuring a warm teak interior with custom blinds, new headliner, and LED lighting on dimmers. To port, the galley includes a Force10 cooktop, Norcold refrigerator, U-Line wine cooler, Origo microwave, and stainless sink with ample storage. To starboard, the lower helm provides excellent visibility and access to both side decks, with a classic Grand Banks teak wheel. Aft of the helm is a bar cabinet and small writing desk, while the L-shaped settee to starboard surrounds the original leaf table—perfect for dining or entertaining.
Below, the guest stateroom forward features twin V-berths, storage lockers, and an en suite head with electric toilet, sink, and shower. The owner’s stateroom aft includes a double berth to starboard, single to port, generous drawer and hanging storage, an en suite head with separate shower, and direct access to the aft deck.
Topside, the flybridge offers excellent visibility with comfortable seating, updated cushions, and full controls for easy handling. A hinged mast allows reduced clearance (12’ Bimini down / 16’ Bimini up / 23’ with mast up) for Loop-friendly cruising.
La Principessa is equipped with all the right upgrades for safe, efficient, and enjoyable cruising—truly one of the nicest examples of this iconic model on the market today.
La Principessa offers the timeless Grand Banks layout that made these yachts famous for liveaboard comfort and efficient cruising. The warm, handcrafted teak interior, abundant natural light, and thoughtful storage make this vessel both functional and inviting.
- Two-stateroom, two-head layout — perfect for extended cruising or liveaboard
- Aft master stateroom: full berth to starboard, single berth to port, built-in desk and drawers, ample hanging and drawer storage
- Forward guest cabin: V-berth layout with under-berth storage and adjacent head with electric toilet, sink, and shower
- Two full heads with electric toilets, basins, and enclosed showers
- Bright main salon with large windows, two entry doors, and teak joinery throughout
- Headliner updated and LED lighting on dimmers in the salon
- Custom blinds throughout for privacy and temperature control
- Recessed lighting upgrades and tasteful upholstery updates for a modern yet classic feel
- Port side galley and starboard lower helm for easy communication between cook and captain
- L-shaped settee aft to starboard with original Grand Banks teak leaf table
- Bar cabinet and writing desk aft of the lower helm (Ice maker - Cools but doesnt make ice- Inoperable)
- New headliner with recessed dimmable LED lighting
- New blinds and updated upholstery throughout
- Stereo system with four speakers in salon
- Ample storage for cruising gear and provisions
- Easy access to both side decks via teak doors port and starboard
- Classic Grand Banks details: solid teak joinery, teak parquet sole, and traditional hardware
- Force10 two-burner cooktop
- Norcold refrigerator
- U-Line wine cooler
- Origo microwave oven
- Stainless-steel sink with pressurized hot/cold water
- Ample teak cabinetry and drawers for storage
- Bright overhead lighting and opening windows for natural ventilation
- Close proximity to dinette and salon for easy meal service
- Twin Ford Lehman 2715E 120HP diesel engines (approx. 6,478 hours)
- Cruisair reverse-cycle air conditioning systems (2 compressors)
- Starboard transmission rebuilt (2019) with new couplings and dampers on both sides
- Exhaust systems updated on both engines
- Aluminum fuel tanks (twin 300-gallon capacity)
- New poly freshwater tanks (2) replace original steel
- Halon fire suppression system
- (2) manual and automatic bilge pumps
- Fuel shutoff valves and bilge blowers
- Holding tank system with electrical and manual discharge options
- History of oil samples and detailed ship’s log with service records available
- Bottom paint, compound, buff, and wax completed March 2024
- 400 Amp-Hour Lithium House Battery Bank
- 3000 Watt Xantrex Inverter
- 2010 Onan 6kW generator (~2,516 hours)
- Parametric 3-50 battery charger
- Raritan 12-gallon hot water heater
- Twin 30-amp SmartPlug shore power receptacles and breaker box
- LED lighting upgrades throughout salon and cabins
- 12V DC and 120V AC systems with updated breakers and wiring
- Reverse-cycle air conditioning systems (2 units) for comfort year-round
- Cetrek Pro Pilot 725 Autopilot
- Raymarine Pathfinder RL70C Radar/Chartplotter
- Raymarine VHF Radio
- Clarion stereo system with speakers in salon and bridge
- Compass and depth sounder
- Hailer and intercom
- TV and stereo system in main cabin
- Dual helm stations – upper and lower for complete redundancy
Her upper and lower helm stations, generous seating, and hinged mast make her ideal for the Great Loop or comfortable coastal cruising.
- New teak decks on main and side decks (2016 – $35,000 upgrade)
- Wide walk-around side decks with sturdy teak caprails
- Electric windlass with controls at both upper and lower helms
- 45 lb. plow anchor with 50’ chain / 300’ nylon rode
- Twin 30 amp SmartPlug receptacles with upgraded breaker box
- Custom bimini top (16’ bridge height up / 12’ down / 23’ with mast raised – hinged for Loop clearance)
- Aft deck boarding steps and stainless-steel rails for safe movement
- Updated bridge seating and upholstery
- Teak swim platform with folding swim ladder
- Cockpit cushions and teak cockpit sole
- Halon fire suppression system in the engine room
- (2) manual and automatic bilge pumps
- Bilge blower and fuel shut-off valves
- Dual helm stations for redundancy and safe operation in all conditions
- Searchlight and navigation lights
- Horn and hailer system
- Life jackets and throwable flotation devices
- Monthly diver inspections of hull and running gear
- 9’ Dyer Dhow tender with Honda 2.3 HP outboard
- Nick Jackson 700 lb. electric davit system for effortless launch and retrieval
- Three-seat layout with centerboard and two-piece spruce mast (for sailing)
- Lightweight (106 lbs) and easy to handle aboard
- Carries four people or 650 lbs as a tender; sails comfortably with one or two adults
- Beautifully balanced and efficient under oar, sail, or power
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 11/29/25 | Price decreased | $99,900(-9.1%) |
| 11/20/25 | Price decreased | $109,900(-8.3%) |
| 11/4/25 | Initial price | $119,900 |
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Overview from around the web 1978 Grand Banks 42
Customers appreciate the 1978 Grand Banks 42 for its classic craftsmanship and timeless design
Many highlight the spacious and comfortable interior, noting its well-appointed salon and ample sleeping accommodations, making it ideal for extended cruising. The solid construction and reliable twin diesel engines receive praise for providing a smooth and steady ride, even in challenging conditions. Owners often commend the boat's seaworthiness and stability, emphasizing its ability to handle offshore passages with confidence. Additionally, the traditional teak wood finishes and quality joinery are frequently mentioned as standout features that contribute to the vessel’s enduring appeal. Overall, the 1978 Grand Banks 42 is celebrated for combining elegance, durability, and practical cruising capabilities.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 1978 Grand Banks 42 is a classic trawler-style yacht known for its timeless design and solid construction. Here are some of the key pros and cons of this model:
Pros
Classic Styling: The Grand Banks 42 features elegant, traditional lines with a beautiful teak interior that appeals to enthusiasts of vintage yachts.
Solid Construction: Built with a robust fiberglass hull and quality craftsmanship, it offers durability and seaworthiness.
Spacious Layout: The interior layout provides ample living space, including comfortable cabins, a roomy salon, and a functional galley, making it suitable for extended cruising.
Stable Ride: Its full displacement hull design delivers a smooth, stable ride even in rough conditions.
Good Range: Equipped with efficient diesel engines, it offers respectable fuel economy and long-range cruising capability.
Strong Community Support: Being a popular classic yacht, there is a solid owner community and availability of parts and expertise.
Cons
Age-Related Maintenance: As a vessel from 1978, it may require ongoing maintenance and updates to mechanical systems, wiring, and fittings.
Slower Speeds: The full displacement hull prioritizes comfort and stability over speed, so it is not a fast boat compared to modern designs.
Fuel Consumption: While efficient for its size and era, its fuel consumption is higher than that of more modern, lightweight vessels.
Limited Modern Amenities: Some features and onboard systems may feel dated without refits or upgrades.
Weight: The heavy displacement can limit maneuverability in tight marinas and shallow waters.
Made For
The 1978 Grand Banks 42 is ideal for boating enthusiasts who appreciate classic craftsmanship combined with reliable performance. It is perfect for sailors seeking a spacious and comfortable cruiser for extended coastal voyages or liveaboard adventures. This vessel suits those who value traditional teak interiors, sturdy construction, and a timeless design that offers both elegance and practicality on the water. Whether you're an experienced mariner or a couple looking for a dependable and charming yacht to explore bays and harbors, the Grand Banks 42 provides a welcoming and well-appointed platform.
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Contact Great Loop Yacht Sales
1235 Boone Hill Road, Suite 3, Summerville, SC, 29483
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