1979 Hatteras Motor Yacht
$219,900
Boat in Virginia Beach, VA 23456 US
Motor Yacht
2 Engines (2x Detroit Diesel)
53 feet
Diesel
Fiberglass/Reinforced
1979 Hatteras 53 Motor Yacht - Miles Away
This beautifully maintained 1979 Hatteras 53 Motor Yacht, Miles Away, represents a rare opportunity to own one of the most iconic classic motor yachts ever built by Hatteras Yachts. Known for their legendary construction, seaworthiness, and timeless styling, the 53MY remains one of the most sought-after classic cruising yachts.
The salon provides a spacious and inviting area for entertaining or relaxing at anchor or dockside. Elegant parquet flooring, a custom credenza, and a thoughtfully designed TV cabinet with lift system add both style and functionality. All 13 salon and galley windows have been upgraded and replaced, enhancing both visibility and comfort. A lower helm station allows for protected navigation when weather conditions are less than ideal.
The galley is well equipped for extended cruising and liveaboard comfort, featuring a full-size double-door refrigerator, four-burner cooktop, full-size microwave/convection oven, coffee maker, and abundant cabinetry. Expansive Corian countertops provide generous preparation space, while a built-in dining area offers comfortable seating for meals onboard.
Accommodations include three staterooms, each with private ensuite heads featuring showers and ceramic tile finishes.
A washer and dryer for added convenience during extended stays aboard is in the V-berth.
The aft deck is open, bright, and ideal for entertaining, offering beautiful views and generous seating. Amenities include a refrigerator, wet bar with sink, and a hi-lo table, creating a perfect setting for relaxing with guests.
The flybridge provides excellent visibility and an enjoyable outdoor helm station equipped with electronics including Garmin navigation equipment, Fusion stereo system, and Furuno autopilot. Comfortable seating allows guests to join the captain and enjoy the ride. Bridge access is provided by a custom stainless-steel ladder with finely crafted wooden steps. A Bimini top installed in 2018 provides shade and protection.
Wide side decks with easy-to-navigate gunnels lead forward to the bow, complemented by beautifully finished wooden railings with custom snap-on covers to preserve their finish and appearance.
Mechanically, the yacht has received significant investment and care. Both engines were completely rebuilt in 2019, providing reliability and peace of mind. The entire vessel has been professionally painted with Awlgrip, giving her a striking, high-quality finish. The transom windows were sandblasted, powder-coated, and reinstalled during the refit.
Additionally, the vessel includes an extensive inventory of spare parts and tools, further enhancing her value and readiness for cruising.
Miles Away is an exceptional example of a classic Hatteras motor yacht, offering the perfect balance of heritage craftsmanship, modern upgrades, and cruising comfort.
- Rebuilt from ground up, cylinder kits, injectors and turbo chargers
- Power cord cable master
- Racor fuel filters
- Replaced CO2 system with 3 Fireboy extinguishers and automatic engine shut down system
- Block heaters
- Replaced A/C pump 2016
- Oil change system
- 32V Charger 2020
- Starboard engine new starter 2025
- Computank tank leveling system
- New Onan generator 2010
- New VDO gauges
- Heavy duty sending unit for knot meter 2024
- Bridge steering helm sent out and rebuilt 2024
- Steering cylinder sent out and rebuilt 2025
- Securefill vents (prevent overflow when filling)
- New afterdeck enclosure, cushions and bimini top to match new paint
- All 13 windows and frames replaced in salon and galley with fiberglass frames
- Painted all exterior ceilings and non-skid decks 2021
- Replaced windlass gearbox 2021
- New windlass motor 2023
- Replaced 100’ shore power cord 2021
- New curtains 2023
- Dock box on bow
- New furniture
- New carpet 2022
- Wing doors painted 2022
- New cushions on afterdeck furniture 2023
- Nova refrigerator
- Wet Bar
- Fresh bottom paint 2026
- Replace 8 hull ports and all trim rings
- Replaced cutlass bearings 2020
- Carpet replaced 2023
- New wallpaper forward head and hallway 2017
- New aft-deck curtains 2023
- New Bimini top 2018
- New mattresses forward stateroom 2026
Engine and generator hours are as of the date of the original listing and are a representation of what the listing broker is told by the owner and/or actual reading of the engine hour meters. The broker cannot guarantee the true hours. It is the responsibility of the purchaser and/or his agent to verify engine hours, warranties implied or otherwise and major overhauls as well as all other representations noted on the listing brochure.
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
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 3/19/26 | Initial price | $219,900 |
1979 Hatteras Motor Yacht Video Tours
Overview
The Hatteras 60 Moriart is a premium yacht designed by Moriart to excel in ocean conditions while delivering both performance and comfort. This vessel measures just over 60 feet in length and features a robust build intended for serious offshore use, making it suitable for owner-operators seeking a capable and manageable yacht.
Exterior Design and Deck Layout
The yacht's exterior is thoughtfully designed for ease of operation and safety. Access to the large swim platform is facilitated by two stairways located port and starboard through the transom, allowing quick and convenient boarding. The side decks provide a comfortable 18-inch passage between the cabin sides and the rail, with the cabin sides slightly curved inward to increase shoulder room. Rails stand 34 inches high, enhancing safety. Deck hardware includes two 12-inch cleats on each side, with convenient storage for lines and fenders. Forward on the foredeck, a Maxwell windlass with foot controls operates a stainless steel anchor roller. Two access hatches flank the windlass, providing entry to the anchor rode storage, although this compartment is not self-draining. The bow features four-inch toe rails and 28-inch handrails, with cleats and chocks aligned, requiring dock lines to bend at a 90-degree angle; chafing gear is installed for protection. Boarding is facilitated by a convenient port-side rail boarding area and a starboard-side watertight door with an additional boarding gate. Both sides also have mounts for a ladder stored in the lazarette, enabling tender boarding.
Flybridge and Helm Station
The flybridge is designed with operator comfort and functionality in mind. Molded-in steps provide secure access and protection in rough seas. Both the captain and observer seats are premium platinum series models featuring flip-up footrests, armrests, swivel, slide, height adjustment, and reclining capabilities. The helm layout is highly organized and predominantly digital, with CAT engine displays flanking a central ZF transmission display. Two 20-inch navigation displays flank the helm, accompanied by an icon marine radio and depth gauge centrally located. Engine controls, electrical switches, ZF emergency backup controls, bow thruster controls, joystick maneuvering system, digital engine controls, and autopilot are all within easy reach. The helm offers 360-degree visibility, interrupted only by hardtop supports, with limited direct stern sightlines; however, the joystick system and stepping to the starboard quarter hatch afford clear views aft for precise maneuvering.
Power and Performance
Powered by twin CAT C18 engines producing 1135 horsepower each, the Hatteras 60 Moriart delivers impressive performance. The yacht has an overall length of 60 feet 11 inches, a beam of 18 feet 2 inches, and a draft of 4 feet 6 inches, with an empty weight of 76,000 pounds. During testing, with a load of 81,240 pounds including fuel and four people, the boat reached a top speed of 31.5 knots at 2350 RPM, consuming 120 gallons per hour and providing a range of approximately 236 nautical miles. The most efficient cruise speed was 15.9 knots at 1500 RPM, burning 40 gallons per hour, allowing for a 23-hour endurance and a range of 358 nautical miles with a 10% fuel reserve. The vessel felt most comfortable operating at 1700 RPM (73% throttle), achieving 20.7 knots with a slight five-degree bow-high attitude. Maneuverability is exceptional, with a turning radius of about three boat lengths at cruise speed and a slight 1 to 2-degree lean outward in turns. The convex bow design effectively deflects water to the sides, providing smooth wave penetration without pounding. Close-quarters handling is remarkable due to large 50-inch propellers and differential thrust, enabling the yacht to pivot within its own length with the pivot point at the flybridge helm position. This responsiveness facilitates precise docking even in slips only marginally wider than the beam, a significant advantage for owner-operators. An independent joystick for the bow thruster further enhances low-speed control and confidence.
Conclusion
The Hatteras 60 Moriart stands out as a capable and comfortable yacht designed to handle ocean conditions with ease. Its thoughtful deck layout, advanced flybridge helm station, and powerful yet manageable propulsion system combine to offer a solid ride and exceptional maneuverability. These features make it particularly well-suited for owner-operators who desire both performance and ease of handling without the need for professional crew. Overall, the vessel delivers a compelling balance of offshore capability and user-friendly operation.
Overview from around the web 1979 Hatteras Motor Yacht
Customers praise the 1979 Hatteras Motor Yacht for its classic design and solid construction, highlighting its spacious interior and comfortable accommodations
Many appreciate the yacht’s reliable performance and smooth handling, making it ideal for both leisurely cruising and longer voyages. Owners often mention the quality craftsmanship typical of Hatteras vessels and the ample deck space perfect for entertaining. Overall, reviews emphasize the timeless appeal and enduring value of this well-maintained motor yacht.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 1979 Hatteras Motor Yacht is a classic vessel known for its solid construction and timeless design. Here are some of the pros and cons to consider:
Pros
Sturdy Build: Crafted with high-quality materials, the 1979 Hatteras offers durability and a robust structure that has stood the test of time.
Spacious Layout: The yacht features generous living and deck space, providing comfortable accommodations for extended cruising or entertaining guests.
Classic Styling: Its traditional design exudes a timeless appeal, making it a favorite among enthusiasts of vintage motor yachts.
Reliable Performance: Equipped with dependable engines, the boat delivers steady and smooth cruising capabilities.
Good Seaworthiness: Designed for offshore cruising, it handles well in various sea conditions, offering a stable ride.
Cons
Older Systems: Being a vintage model, some onboard systems and electronics may be outdated and could require upgrades or replacements.
Maintenance Intensive: Older yachts typically demand more regular upkeep, including engine servicing and hull maintenance, which can be time-consuming and costly.
Fuel Efficiency: Compared to modern motor yachts, the 1979 Hatteras may have higher fuel consumption.
Limited Modern Amenities: Lacking some of the contemporary conveniences found in newer vessels, such as advanced navigation systems or modern interior finishes.
Availability of Parts: Finding original replacement parts can sometimes be challenging due to the age of the yacht.
Made For
The 1979 Hatteras Motor Yacht is ideal for boating enthusiasts seeking a classic vessel that combines timeless style with solid performance. It’s perfect for those who appreciate spacious accommodations, sturdy construction, and a reliable motor yacht designed for comfortable cruising and entertaining on the water. Whether you're planning extended trips or leisurely weekend outings, this yacht suits families, seasoned sailors, and anyone looking to enjoy a blend of luxury and durability on the open sea.
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1979 Hatteras Motor Yacht | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $219,900 | $219,900 | $198,000 | $249,000 | $249,000 | $169,900 |
| Virginia Beach | Virginia Beach | Hampton | Hampton | Cape Charles | Urbanna |
| - | 53' | - | - | 48' | 39' |
| 4' | - | - | - | - | - |
| Detroit Diesel | Detroit Diesel | Cummins | Cummins | Cummins | Volvo |
| 435 hp | 435 hp | 370 hp | 540 hp | - | 370 hp |
| 61 | 64 | 34 | 613 | 613 | 556 |
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