1980 Mao Ta Skye 51
$48,500
Boat in Santa Cruz, CA 95060 US
Skye 51
1 Engine (Perkins)
51 feet
Diesel
Fiberglass/Reinforced
51' Skye 51 '80 "Zykanthos"
A wonderful and capable vessel, this Skye 51 features good equipment and custom upgrades for comfortable cruising. Well-crafted teak interior offers two staterooms and two heads in an ideal layout for the cruising family or couple with occasional guests. ZYKANTHOS represents a truly outstanding performance cruiser and is a very special market opportunity. ZYKANTHOS is ready for some updating, including decks, standing rigging, and sails.
****1 Year Santa Cruz Slip Possible****
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.
ZYKANTHOS has a standard Skye 51 layout, with minor interior modifications: The forepeak contains pipe berths, a small sink and storage. It can be used as quarters for a professional captain, or for storage and children's sleeping quarters. The forepeak can be accessed either from a sliding foredeck hatch or via the forward stateroom.
Aft of the forepeak is a full width forward head with shower, and a double-berth forward stateroom following. This area has been modified to make for a more open feel and an attractive owner's cabin, with ample hanging locker and drawer storage.
The main salon offers a full dinette with seating for 6-8 people on starboard, with settee and small pilot berth opposite. All surfaces are faced with varnished teak, including teak and holly sole. The main salon provides substantial storage space. Note that the batteries have been placed in watertight boxes beneath the salon floorboards, for weight and storage considerations.
Aft of the main salon, the galley is located to port and an aft-facing navigation station is to starboard of the main companionway. A bridge deck aft of the companionway provides ample headroom in the aft cabin, which offers a double berth, hanging locker, small vanity and aft head with shower. Aft cabin is light and well ventilated, with a deck hatch above.
This layout provides good separation and privacy for two couples, or for children. Interior is in good condition throughout. Headroom is approximately 6'4".
Propane stove with broiler
Microwave oven
Pressure water system
Depth sounder
Autopilot
Compass
GPS
Radar
VHF radio
Hand-held VHF radio
SSB radio
Clock and barometer
Tank level indicator
12V DC and 110V AC
Battery monitor
Battery charger
Anchor with chain and rode
Electric windlass
Anchor and steaming lights
Deck light
Running lights
Bow pulpit and rails
Lifelines and stanchions
Dock lines and fenders
Swim ladder
Actual LOA 50’6”
Last bottom paint 12/25
To increase upwind performance, the first owner of the boat added 900 lbs of lead to the keel and increased the draft from 7 feet to 8 feet.
Manual boom vang
Wire standing rigging
Hydraulic backstay adjuster
Aluminum mast
Mainsheet traveler
Mast steps
Spinnaker pole
Roller furling on headsail
Winches:
Mainmast (1) Barient 24 2-speed self-tailing
(1) Barient 25 2-speed
(2) Lewmar 42 2-speed
(1) each Lewmar 42 2-speed self-tailing
Mainsheet (1) Lewmar 42 2-speed self-tailing
Primary (2) Lewmar 66 2-speed self-tailing electric
Secondary (2) Lewmar 55 2-speed self-tailing
Mizzen (2) Barient 21 2-speed
Sails:
Two complete sets, one 1980/90, one new 2000
(1) 1/2oz. spinnaker (very thin)
(1) 1 1/2oz. (good shape)
(1) 150% Genoa (like new!)
3-blade folding prop
Engine alarm
Fuel filter
Stove fuel shut-off valve
Manual and electric bilge pumps
Manual head with overboard discharge
Watermaker
Bell
Emergency tiller
EPIRB
Flares
All seller’s personal effects on board are excluded from the sale of this vessel.
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 4/7/26 | Price decreased | $48,500(-29.7%) |
| 3/10/26 | Initial price | $69,000 |
Overview from around the web 1980 Mao Ta Skye 51
Customers appreciate the 1980 Mao Ta Skye 51 for its classic design and solid craftsmanship
Many highlight its spacious interior and comfortable layout, making it ideal for extended cruising. The boat's robust build and reliable performance in various sea conditions receive positive remarks, as do its well-maintained features and timeless aesthetic. Overall, owners value the Skye 51 for blending traditional sailing elegance with practical functionality.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 1980 Mao Ta Skye 51 offers a blend of classic design and solid craftsmanship, making it a notable choice for sailing enthusiasts. Here are some pros and cons to consider:
Pros
Timeless Design: The Skye 51 features a classic aesthetic that appeals to sailors who appreciate traditional styling.
Sturdy Construction: Built in 1980, this model is known for its robust build quality, ensuring durability and reliability on the water.
Spacious Interior: The layout provides ample living space, making it comfortable for extended cruising or liveaboard situations.
Good Sailing Performance: The Skye 51 handles well under sail, offering a balanced and manageable experience for both seasoned sailors and those learning the ropes.
Solid Reputation: As a well-regarded model from its era, it has a loyal following and availability of parts and community support.
Cons
Older Systems: Being a 1980 model, some of the onboard systems and equipment may be outdated and could require upgrades or maintenance.
Heavier Weight: Compared to more modern designs, the Skye 51 may be heavier, which can affect speed and maneuverability in certain conditions.
Maintenance Needs: Classic boats often need more upkeep to maintain their condition, which could mean higher ongoing costs.
Limited Modern Amenities: The interior and onboard technology may lack some of the conveniences found in newer vessels.
Potential for Wear: Depending on how well it has been cared for, the boat might show signs of wear typical for its age, such as fading, corrosion, or woodwork needing attention.
Made For
The 1980 Mao Ta Skye 51 is ideal for experienced sailors and boating enthusiasts seeking a classic, well-crafted vessel with timeless design and reliable performance. Its spacious layout and sturdy construction make it perfect for extended cruising, family adventures, or those who appreciate a blend of traditional aesthetics with functional sailing capabilities. Whether you’re embarking on coastal explorations or longer offshore journeys, the Skye 51 offers comfort, durability, and a rewarding sailing experience.
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Contact Yachtfinders Windseakers about 1980 Mao Ta Skye 51
2330 Shelter Island Drive, Suite 207, San Diego, CA, 92106















































































