1981 Irwin 40 Citation
$39,900
Boat in Oriental, NC 28571 US
Built in 1981
40 Citation
1 Engine (Yanmar)
40 feet
Diesel
Fiberglass/Reinforced
VAYU, "to be guided gently by the wind". The romance of sailing starts here.
A testament to classic design and modern craftsmanship, VAYU, a beautifully rebuilt 1981 Irwin 40 Citation shines as a true coastal cruiser. The refit has brought its handsome, Ted Irwin-designed lines back to life, with a pristine hull and a deck that gleams under the sun. Inside, the once-tired interior has been completely revitalized, blending the original vessel's rich teak and mahogany details with contemporary upgrades, such as new wiring and state-of-the-art navigation electronics. The heart of the boat, its engine, has been impeccably maintained, and crucial systems like the rigging and rudder have been overhauled, ensuring reliability for years of cruising. Fully equipped with solar panels, wind generators, and a water maker, VAYU is ready to go. Far more than a simple restoration, this labor of love respects the Citation's classic pedigree while transforming it into a capable and comfortable vessel, ready for new adventures.
The owner is a professional boat builder, marine engineer, and retired marine surveyor. His book, Fiberglass Boat Restoration: The Project Planning Guide is considered a definitive guide in the marine industry. An avid sailor and expert craftsman, he undertook the comprehensive refit of VAYU from 2006 to the present, documenting the extensive process in his book. After meticulously restoring the boat's hull, deck, and structural components, he put his handiwork to the test. He first sailed the rejuvenated Citation north, navigating the coastal waters of New England and visiting the historic sailing hub of Rhode Island. From there, he set a course for the remote and protected Dry Tortugas, proving the seaworthiness of his work on the open ocean and creating a testament to both his expertise and the durability of their restored vessel.
The owner has purchased a larger boat, and is ready to let another couple or family enjoy the efforts of his labor.
Detailed descriptions of the vessel are worthy of your time to read. Call today to schedule your private showing of VAYU.
Remodeled interior (2006-present) including:
- New salon cushions and covers (2023)
- Replaced cabin doors (2020)
- Replaced portlights with stainless steel (2020)
- Replaced upper interior cabin sides with Formica (2020)
- Rebuilt V-berth and added a new luxury mattress (2014)
- Replaced salon sub floor (2008)
- Revarnished interior (2008)
- Ultra suede overhead liner throughout (2008)
- Replaced interior lights (2008)
- Installed cedar lining to forward hanging locker (2008)
- Added upper cabinets in V-berth (2009)
- Replaced forward cabin floor (2007)
- Rebuilt head compartment with new cabinets (2021)
- Replaced head inboard bulkhead (2007)
- Added VacuFlush 12VDC head system(2007)
- Rebuilt galley cabinets (2021)
- Adler Barbour 12VDC cold machine 1 with holding plate, 1 with standard evaporator
- Three (3) burner LPG stove with 2 aluminum 10-lb propane tanks
- Countertops solid surface with large stainless steel galley sink
- Raymarine E127 Plotter with digital radar
- Raymarine E90 Plotter
- Raymarine ST60 Depth
- Raymarine ST60 Speed
- Standard Horizon WS150 Wind AWI (2020)
- Raymarine ASI receiver
- Raymarine S3G Autopilot with linear drive
- Raymarine ST5000 Wheel pilot (back up to under deck autopilot)
- Raymarine RD18 Radar
- Clarion CMD5 Stereo with Bose speakers inside, cockpit speakers on Arch with helm remote
- ICOM IC-M502 VHF with cockpit remote command Mic II
- ICOM 710 marine SSB with AT130 tuner
- Overhead TV in forward cabin
- 12VDC TV 21-inch in salon with Masthead antenna and amplifier
- LED lighting throughout
- Tricolor nav light at mast head
- Rule 3000 auto bilge pump (2025)
- Rule 3000 auto bilge pump as high water pump
- Whale manual bilge pump
- High water alarm with buzzer in cockpit
- Six (6) Solar panels, 700 watts total with Morningstar controller
- Two (2) Wind generators, 300 watts each
- Mermaid 120VAC 16,000 BTU reverse cycle heat and air conditioning (2019)
- Pur 80 12VDC water maker
- 12VDC diesel heater
- 1500 watt Heart Inverter charger
- 45 amp battery charger
- Four (4) Trojan 6 volt deep cycle lead acid batteries in two (2) 12 volt banks
- Two (2) Group 24 engine start batteries. (1) as backup
- Two (2) Blue seas voltage sensing relays for charging
- Balmar 100 amp engine driven alternator with Aqualine Plus 3 stage regulator (2011)
- 12 VDC water pump
- 11 Gallon 120 VAC Kuuma water heater with engine heat exchange
- 12VDC raw water pump
- Replaced electrical panel in Galley (2010)
- Replaced electrical panel in Nav Station (2009)
- Yanmar 3QM30, 27 hp, approximately 5000 hrs, Serial # 82146
- Kanzaki, Kokyukoki Mfg model KH18, 2.03, 2:1 RH, Serial # AR1672
- 3 blade bronze fixed propeller, 16RH12
- Painted engine (2023)
- Installed new sound foam in engine compartment (2023)
- Replaced injector pump seals (2023)
- Rudder removed and repaired (2020)
- Replaced propeller shaft (2020)
- New dripless seal (2020)
- Replaced lower rudder bearing (2012)
- Hull: Fin with rudder on skeg
- Hull is solid fiberglass
- Deck is solid plywood core built with 6 x 6 blocks of plywood
- Cockpit shower, hot and cold
- Cockpit canvas
- Transom swim platform with boarding ladder
- Shore water connection
- Magma propane grill
- Delta plow anchor
- Danforth type anchor
- Repaired rudder fiberglass (2020)
- Replaced rudder shaft packing (2020)
- Stripped bottom, 20 mil epoxy barrier coat and paint (2020)
- Painted the deck (2020)
- Resealed, glued and bolted port hull deck joint (2020)
- Repaired deck core where needed, especially around chain plates (2020)
- Lifelines replaced (2019)
- Added Hawser pipes in bow (2019)
- Simpson Lawrence 12VDC windlass (2019)
- Added princess seats to aft rail and arch (2019)
- Replaced soft core in cockpit floor (2018)
- Replaced bow rail (2018)
- Reseal, glue and bolt starboard hull deck joint (2017)
- Replaced wood handrails on cabin top with stainless steel (2017)
- Rebuilt and re-bedded deck hatches including new lenses (2010)
- Added radar arch (2010)
- Replaced breast plate at the forestay under deck (2009)
- Standing rigging replaced (2006)
- Running rigging replaced (2006)
- Mast replaced with Hood Stowaway from a Cape Dory 40 (2006)
- Hood stowaway mainsail roller furling
- Hood double spreader stowaway mast with climbing steps
- 2 Genoas in fair to good condition
- 1 Roller furling mainsail in good condition
- 1 Storm jib, never used, in good condition
- Harken jib roller furling
- 1 Fuel tank, aluminum, 40 gallons (replaced in 2023)
- 2 Water tanks, aluminum, 50 gallons each, under the port and starboard salon settees (Repaired starboard water tank in 2008)
- 1 Holding tank, plastic, 20 gallons (replaced in 2008)
- Standard USCG safety equipment
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1/29/26 | Initial price | $39,900 |
Overview from around the web 1981 Irwin 40 Citation
Customers praise the 1981 Irwin 40 Citation for its spacious and comfortable interior, making it ideal for extended cruising and liveaboard lifestyles
Many highlight its solid construction and reliable performance under sail, appreciating the boat's stability and ease of handling. The classic design combines traditional aesthetics with practical features, attracting sailors who value both form and function. Owners often note the ample storage and well-thought-out layout, which enhance onboard living. Overall, the Irwin 40 Citation is regarded as a sturdy, comfortable cruiser that delivers a rewarding sailing experience.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 1981 Irwin 40 Citation is a classic cruiser known for its spacious interior and solid construction. Here are some of the key pros and cons to consider:
Pros
Spacious Interior: The Irwin 40 Citation offers a roomy cabin layout with ample headroom and comfortable sleeping accommodations, making it ideal for extended cruising.
Solid Build: Known for its robust fiberglass hull and sturdy construction, this boat is designed to handle a variety of sea conditions with confidence.
Good Sailing Performance: With a moderate sail plan and a reliable keel design, the Irwin 40 Citation provides stable and manageable sailing characteristics, suitable for both cruising and club racing.
Generous Storage: The boat features plentiful storage compartments, which is a significant advantage for long voyages.
Comfortable Deck Layout: The cockpit is spacious and designed for ease of handling, enhancing the overall sailing experience.
Cons
Older Design: Being a model from 1981, some aspects of the design and onboard systems might feel dated compared to modern yachts, potentially requiring upgrades or refurbishments.
Weight: The boat is relatively heavy, which can affect light wind performance and maneuverability.
Maintenance: As with many older fiberglass boats, maintenance can be more demanding, especially concerning deck hardware and rigging.
Interior Styling: The interior woodwork and fittings reflect the era’s style and might not appeal to those seeking a more contemporary look without renovation.
Limited Downwind Performance: The sail plan and hull shape may not excel in downwind sailing compared to more modern designs.
Made For
The 1981 Irwin 40 Citation is ideal for sailors seeking a spacious and comfortable cruiser with solid performance. Designed for those who enjoy extended coastal cruising or offshore passages, it offers ample living space, sturdy construction, and reliable handling. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or a couple looking for a dependable and roomy yacht to explore the waters in style, the Irwin 40 Citation provides the perfect blend of comfort and capability.
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Meet the Broker
Address
Boat Location
Contact Triton Yacht Sales and Service, LLC. about 1981 Irwin 40 Citation
PO Box 238, Oriental, NC, 28571
Contact Triton Yacht Sales and Service, LLC.
PO Box 238, Oriental, NC, 28571
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