1988 Irwin 54
$60,000
Boat in Dighton, MA US
54
1 Engine (1988 Yanmar)
54 feet
Diesel
Fiberglass/Reinforced
Litha is a solid, safe, and comfortable 1988 Irwin 54 Center Cockpit ketch cruiser with impressive refit updates in recent years. Until 2024, Litha served her family with off-shore and Caribbean live-aboard adventures, and before they set sail, the family invested in substantial, high value updates and improvements detailed below. She has recent new rigging, new batteries/and solar, a new mainsail, solid electrical system, new external chain plates and more. Her living accommodations and conveniences are extensive and comfortable.
Litha's needs include repairs to her cockpit enclosure and rub rail, deck moisture remediation, a new headsail, and some other cosmetic improvements. However, Litha is structurally and mechanically sound with a Yanmar engine, electrical updates and recent Lithium battery replacement. Most of Litha's needs can be addressed over time, by a skilled owner and/or professional yard; she can be relocated from her current port with her Yanmar engine, mainsail and mizzen.
Bottom line: for a very reasonable price, you can make Litha the boat of your dreams with a manageable schedule for her improvements and updates.
In four cabins, there is comfortable private sleep space for up to 7 plus additional space in the salon and on deck for stargazing. There is a forward v-berth (sleeps 2), a single berth (sleeps 1 or 2 small people), a double berth (sleeps 2) and the master cabin (sleeps 2) with a comfortable queen bed. The salon/cabin has room for additional sofa sleepers. There is extensive storage throughout Litha.
The main salon is bright and spacious, with a comfy settee to port and a starboard U-shaped settee with expandable dining table. The salon is so generous it might double as a dance floor!
The galley is a step-down space to starboard, fully equipped with all conveniences for the cruising chef. In addition, there are two air conditioning units in forward staterooms and aft master stateroom. A/C runs on shore power or future generator.
ELECTRONICS/ENERGY
2023 - Added (4) Kilovaut HLT + 3600 300ah lithium batteries; 1200 amp hours total
2023 - Replaced all battery cables w/4a cable
2023 - Installed new Balmar XT series 250a alternator
2023 - Installed Balmar MC 618 controller for lithium batteries
2022 - Replaced Type 1 electric autopilot ram
2020 - Installed new B&G display in master cabin
2018 - Added 800 watts of solar
2018 - Installed Victron 3000/12/120 inverter/charger
2018 - Added 100/50 Victron smart solar
2018 - 712 Victron battery monitor added and color controller
2018 - Installed new Garmin wind instruments
2018 - 2018 - Installed new Garmin AIS transmitter/receiver
GALLEY
Princess Stove/Oven
2018 - Installed Cruse water maker 35g/hr
2018 - Installed new deep galley sink and faucet
2018 - Installed new microwave
2018 - Installed LG washer/dryer combo
2019 - Installed Raritan fresh water heater in master stateroom
2020 - Installed new foot pumps for both fresh and saltwater
2022 - Installed new 20-gallon hot water tank and expansion tank
2022 - Installed new 5-gallon accumulation tank
2022 - Installed new 18" dishwasher
2022 - Installed new trash compactor
2022 - Added 2 isotherm refrigerators
2022 - Installed new freezer
Additional Below Decks
- Air Conditioning (2)
- Electric Bilge Pump
- Manual Bilge Pump
- Electric Head
- Heating
SAILS & RIGGING
- 2018 - New running and standing rigging
- 2020 - Zoom furling Mainsail- Electric Winch
- 2 Spinnaker Poles
- Genoa-needs replacement -Mizzen in serviceable condition
ANCHOR AND TACKLE
Anchor- Rocna Vulcan 40Kg (88lbs)
2022 -Rebuilt windlass
2022 -Added 400" of anchor chain 3/8"
OTHER UPDATES
2018 - Re-bedded all port lights
2018 - Replaced 3" engine exhaust hoses
2020 - Replaced 5 of 9 hatches
2022 - Added new Type 1 offshore PFD (8) adult & (2) child
Equipment/Extras
- Cockpit Cushions
- Cockpit Shower
- Cockpit Table
- Davit(s)
- Outboard Engine Brackets
- Radar Reflector
- Solar Panels
- Swimming Ladder
- Bean bag deck seating
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
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 4/23/26 | No change | $70,000 |
| 4/12/26 | Price decreased | $60,000(-14.3%) |
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Overview from around the web 1988 Irwin 54
Customers praise the 1988 Irwin 54 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 balance of speed and stability. Owners also commend the well-designed deck layout, which facilitates easy handling and enhances safety. Overall, the Irwin 54 is valued for combining classic cruising comfort with practical sailing features, appealing to those seeking a dependable and roomy offshore cruiser.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 1988 Irwin 54 is a spacious and sturdy cruising sailboat known for its solid construction and comfortable accommodations. Here are some of the pros and cons of this model:
Pros
Spacious Interior: The Irwin 54 offers ample living space with multiple cabins, making it ideal for extended cruising or liveaboard use.
Solid Construction: Built with a robust fiberglass hull, the boat provides durability and a sense of security offshore.
Good Storage: Plenty of storage compartments and lockers are integrated throughout the vessel to accommodate long voyages.
Comfortable Amenities: Equipped with a well-appointed galley, roomy salon, and functional navigation station, it enhances onboard comfort.
Stable Sailing Performance: The design provides good stability and handling, suitable for bluewater cruising.
Cons
Heavy Displacement: The boat's weight can result in slower speeds compared to lighter performance cruisers.
Aging Systems: Being a 1988 model, some mechanical and electrical systems may require updates or maintenance.
Limited Maneuverability: The size and displacement can make docking and tight maneuvers more challenging, especially for less experienced sailors.
Outdated Design Elements: Some aspects of the interior and deck layout may feel dated compared to more modern yachts.
Made For
The 1988 Irwin 54 is designed for sailors and cruisers seeking a spacious, comfortable, and sturdy yacht ideal for long-distance offshore voyages and extended liveaboard experiences. Its ample living space, robust construction, and reliable sailing performance make it perfect for experienced sailors and families who want to explore coastal and bluewater cruising with confidence and style.
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Contact The Cruising Yacht Brokerage, LLC about 1988 Irwin 54
101 Narragansett Ave, Barrington, RI, 02806















































































