1998 J Boats J/120
$139,000
Boat in Seattle, WA 98117 US
Built in 1998
J/120
1 Engine (Beta)
40 feet
Diesel
Fiberglass/Reinforced
SHEARWATER has a long history of racing and local cruising around the Pacific Northwest. She has been consistently upgraded and maintained since purchased in 2020 by her current owners with much of the work completed by CSR Marine in Seattle. Improvements to SHEARWATER over the past four years have improved her performance in racing as well as comfort for cruising.
Improvements to SHEARWATER are extensive; most notably are a new BETA Marine diesel engine installed by Access Marine in 2023, full bottom job by CSR Marine in 2024, 3-blade Max Prop, rod rigging by Ballard Sails and Rigging 2024, running rigging, anchor windlass, and more. Further upgrades are noted in the specifications.
Under previous ownership, SHEARWATER has traveled across the United States for various races from winning the J/120 class at Key West Race Week and a double handed Pacific Cup in 2014. After being shipped back from Hawaii she has sailed in the PNW double handed or up to a full crew of eight with good results. She is easily sailed to her ORC and PHRF ratings and is ready for the 2025 season with current rating certificates.
Interior Accommodations
SHEARWATER was finished by J Composites in 1998 after being laid in Rhode Island. She has a covered overhead and more veneered bulkheads than her U.S. finished sister ships do. The two stateroom arrangement will sleep six with her v-berth, quarter cabin and salon settee berths. Storage space is well configured and above average for a vessel of her size and performance characteristics, with hanging lockers in each stateroom and numerous drawers, lockers and other storage areas.
Forward is the V-berth cabin and the head arrangement is on the port side just aft of the cabin. A hanging locker is opposite on the starboard side.
The salon is finished with veneered bulkheads and white vinyl overheads. Centerline is the removable- drop-leaf main salon table, perfect for dinners aboard and easy enough to remove for buoy racing on weekends. Linear settees flank both sides of the cabin with storage outboard
The L-shaped galley is aft on the port side and just at the base of the companionway. There is a 2 burner LPG stove/oven, refrigeration, double basin stainless sink, and storage is outboard. Just aft of the galley is the large storage area accessible through a small door or via the cockpit locker.
On the starboard side, opposite the galley, is the forward-facing navigation station with forward facing seat and table with storage below the hinged table top. There are three drawers and a locker below the forward end of the table.
Just aft is the enclosed quarter-berth stateroom. There is a long quarter-berth with a shelf that stretches the length of the cabin along the hull side. A hanging locker is located forward. Two ports and a small hatch provide ventilation.
Electronics and navigation
- NKE electronics & autopilot
- NKE gyro pilot graphic
- (2) NKE data displays
- NKE Regatta Compass
- NKE autopilot
- (2) NKE autopilot remote 2021
- All NKE electronics inspected and software updates by local NKE agent, 2021
- Uniden VHF w/DSC, 2019
- AIS Transponder & Receiver with WiFi hub, 2016
- Optimizer for sat phone, 2014
- Garmin GPS, 2012
- L&S hydraulic ram with energy save solenoid
Electrical
- Victron battery charger - 2020
- Starter battery, group 24 AGM 800 MCA - 2020
- Lifeline 4D AGM Deep Cycle Battery, 210 AH Marine Flag Terminals - 2021
- Xantrex 1000W Freedom XC Inverter Charger - 12V DC, 120VAC - 2021
- Balmar 120A alternator
- Balmar external regulator
- 2 SunPower 100W Flexible Solar Panels - 2018 (presently in owners storage)
- Victron charge controller- 2019
- LED bow navigation lights - 2020
- LED Tri-Color
- Alpenglow interior lights
- Additional 120v power outlets added
Mechanical and Plumbing
- Beta 38hp - BV1505 installation by Access Marine - 2023
- 3-Blade 17’ Max-Prop- 2023
- Prop shaft replaced, 2012, balanced and aligned with engine repower – 2023
- Engine mounts replaced- 2023
- Stuffing box replaced- 2023
- Most recent full engine service (50 hour) – Gallery Marine – December 2024
- Water heater- 2020
- Wallas diesel forced air heater
- Isotherm refrigeration
- Force 10 stove & oven (2021)
- Aluminum propane tank
- Propane line and fittings replaced with added shutoff switch
- Inline water filter added for galley faucet
- Shower sump pump and automatic switch
- Automatic bilge pump – 2024
- Composting head
- 27 gal fuel
- 75 gal water
Hull and Deck
- Balta Plate bottom paint by CSR – 2024
- Keel re-faired by CSR – 2024
- Deck stiffened around partners & chainplates – 2024
- Bottomed cleaned monthly by a professional diver
- Topsides painted with Alex Seal two-part LPU- 2019
- Maxwell 10 Electric Windlass, with remote - 2021
- Lewmar Claw 44lb. anchor – 100’ of chain & 200’ of rode
- Fortress 21 Race anchor – 25’ chain & 100’ of rode
- Removable anchor roller
- Emergency tiller
- Scanmar SOS emergency rudder
- Dodger with canvas, and window covers
Rigging
- Hall spars aluminum mast, replaced in 2007 (original was damaged during land transport), inspected and rig tuned by Ballard Sails- 2024
- All rod rigging replaced by Ballard Sails- 2024
- Carbon wheel- 2007 (original aluminum wheel was damaged during land transport)
- Main traveler updated- 2020
- Traveler blocks - 2021
- All six Harken winches rebuilt – Ballard Sails - 2021
- New #1 jib halyard – Ballard Sails - 2024
- New #1 spinnaker halyard – Ballard Sails - 2024
- Dyneema main halyard
- Mainsheet – Ballard Sails – 2021
- Genoa Sheets – Ballard Sails – 2021
- Spinnaker Sheets – Ballard Sails - 2021
- Dyneema backstay - 2019
- Check-Stays installed by Ballard Sails - 2021
- Tackline for spinnaker
- Second tackline eye and additional tackline – Ballard Sails - 2021
- Lifelines replaced - 2018
- Lifeline gates installed - 2021
- Garhauer rigid boom vang
Sails
- UK X-Drive main, 2018
- UK Titanium #1 genoa, 2020 – lightly used.
- UK X-Drive #2 genoa, 2018
- UK X-Drive #3 jib, 2018
- Heavy weather #4, dacron
- UK AirX A2 spinnaker, 2018
- Ballard Sails A3, 2021 – lightly used.
- Ballard Sails A4, 2014
- Trysail
- Cruising main
- Doyle Carbon #1 cruising genoa
- Cruising/practice spinnaker
Miscellaneous and Safety
- EPIRB 2024
- Interior cushions
- 2024 PHRF and ORC certificates
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 |
|---|---|---|
| 3/31/26 | Initial price | $139,000 |
1998 J Boats J/120 Video Tours
Overview from around the web 1998 J Boats J/120
The 1998 J Boats J/120 has garnered positive feedback from sailors and boat enthusiasts alike, highlighting several key attributes that make this cruising yacht a popular choice
Here’s what customers are saying: 1. Performance: Many owners praise the J/120 for its impressive sailing performance. With its responsive handling and speed, it’s suitable for both competitive racing and leisurely cruising. Sailors appreciate how well it performs in various wind conditions. 2. Design and Comfort: The thoughtful design of the J/120 provides a comfortable and spacious interior. Customers often mention the well-appointed cabin, which includes a practical galley, ample storage, and cozy sleeping quarters, making it ideal for extended trips. 3. Versatility: The J/120 is noted for its versatility, serving well both as a racer and a cruiser. Customers enjoy the ability to switch between different sailing styles, whether participating in regattas or enjoying a day out on the water with family and friends. 4. Build Quality: Owners consistently highlight the quality of craftsmanship that goes into the J/120. The sturdy construction and attention to detail are often mentioned, contributing to a sense of durability and longevity. 5. Community and Support: Many customers appreciate the strong community surrounding the J/120. The boat's popularity means that there are plenty of resources, forums, and knowledgeable owners willing to share tips and experiences. Overall, the 1998 J Boats J/120 is celebrated for its blend of performance, comfort, and quality, making it a well-regarded choice among sailing enthusiasts.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
Pros
Performance-Oriented Design: The J/120 is known for its excellent sailing performance. Its sleek lines and efficient hull shape make it capable of both cruising and competitive racing.
Spacious Interior: The interior layout is designed to maximize space, providing comfortable accommodations for cruising. With a good-sized galley, salon, and sleeping quarters, it’s ideal for longer trips.
Versatile Sailing: This model is well-suited for various wind conditions, allowing for enjoyable sailing whether in light breezes or heavier winds.
Build Quality: J Boats has a strong reputation for quality craftsmanship, and the J/120 is crafted with durable materials, ensuring longevity and reliability on the water.
Easy Handling: The design incorporates features that make it easier for a small crew to manage, including a balanced rig that provides good performance with less physical effort.
Good Resale Value: J Boats generally hold their value well, and the J/120 is no exception, making it a smart investment for both new and seasoned sailors.
Cons
Maintenance Requirements: Like any sailing vessel, the J/120 requires regular maintenance, and given its performance focus, keeping sail and rigging in top condition can demand time and resources.
Limited Space for Larger Crews: While the interior is spacious for a boat of its size, it may feel cramped for larger crews, particularly during races or when entertaining.
Price Point: Depending on the condition and upgrades, the cost of a used J/120 may be higher than other options in the cruising market, which could be a barrier for some buyers.
Performance Limitations in Heavy Winds: Although it performs well in various conditions, the J/120 may not be the best choice for extreme weather conditions compared to more purpose-built racing boats.
Less Storage: While designed for cruising, the storage may be limited for extensive gear, which can be a consideration for those planning longer voyages.
Made For
The 1998 J Boats J/120 is an ideal vessel for sailing enthusiasts seeking a blend of performance, comfort, and versatility. Designed for both competitive racers and cruising aficionados, this 39-foot sailboat offers the perfect balance of speed and stability. Whether you're a seasoned sailor looking to compete in regattas or a family wanting to enjoy weekend escapes on the water, the J/120 meets diverse needs. Its spacious cockpit and well-appointed interior make it comfortable for entertaining guests or relaxing after a day of racing. With its impressive speed capabilities and responsive handling, the J/120 is suitable for those who appreciate the thrill of performance sailing, while still offering the amenities needed for extended cruising. The combination of its modern design, quality craftsmanship, and excellent sailing attributes caters to both newcomers and experienced sailors alike, making it a fantastic choice for anyone looking to explore the open waters.
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Address
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Contact Swiftsure Yachts about 1998 J Boats J/120
2540 Westlake Ave N., Suite A, Seattle, WA, 98109
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