1959 Monk Express Cruiser

$39,500

Used

Boat in Seattle, WA US

builtBuilt in 1959
Year the boat was built
model

Express Cruiser

Boat model
engine

1 Engine (Monk)

Engine type and count
length

40 feet

Overall boat length
fuel

Diesel

Fuel type
material

Wooden

Hull material
Nominal Length
40ft
Length Overall
40ft
Beam
13.42ft
Max Draft
4.5ft
Displacement
18500lb
Cruising Speed
12kn
Max Speed
17kn
Cabins
1
Heads
1
Fresh Water Tanks
90gal
Fuel Tanks
140gal
Holding Tanks
17gal
Hull Material
wood
Engine 1
Engine Make
Monk
Engine Model
Express Cruiser
Total Power
286hp
Engine Hours
2794
Fuel Type
diesel
Additional Information
AccommodationsStarting in the forepeak you will find the chain locker immediately followed by the sleeping accommodations with two 6’5” bunks with custom mattresses. Drawers and hanging lockers provide room for your gear. Moving aft we enter the galley and dinette area. On the port is the U-shaped dinette which can seat 6 comfortably. The upholstery was recently renewed. To starboard is first a pantry followed by a 9’ galley counter. With four burner stove and oven double, double stainless sink, you still have plenty of room left over for food prep! Back to the port side you will find the large head and shower. Up the steps to the large wheelhouse with plenty of space for you and all your friends to stay out the cold. The aft deck is accessed through a large sliding glass door where you can relax on the full width transom seat. Large windows throughout let in plenty of light. Systems Anchoring:  Vertical Simpson Lawrence (up-only) windlass managing a Bruce 44lbs anchor with 100’ of 5/8 chain and 200’ of nylon 3-braid ¾” rode. Batteries:  House bank: 8-six volt wired in series to 12Volts. New in 2016. Cranking bank: 1-8D. New in 2019. Charging of all batteries is by the inverter or Balmar high output alternator. Electrical:  Trace inverter Model M2512 for charging and 120V. 5- 12Volt distribution panels, 1-120V distribution panel, Galvanic isolator, 30AMP shore power outlet and cord. Safety Equipment:  3 bilge pumps, 8 adult life jackets, 4 child life jackets, Fire extinguishers, flares (out of date). Electronics:  Furuno Radar/Uniden UM525 VHF/Standard Horizon Depth Sounder/ HP Laptop with Open CPN Navionic Charts Olympia to Desolation Sound Galley:  Propane 4 burner cooktop and oven/ two basin stainless sink and faucet/ Torrid MH10 10 Gallon Hot water tank/ New 120V undercounter refrigerator/ Galley counter is 9 feet long with plenty of storage below Heating:  Mikuni forced air furnace supplemented by a propane Force 10 external exhaust heater in the wheelhouse. Blackwater System:  Electric macerating toilet to a 17-gallon poly tank evacuated by either deck fitting or overboard pump in legal waters.   Tender: 1965 10’ Roberts Mini-Craft built in Seattle carried by twin davits. All period correct and functional. Generator - N/A Engine Model: 1986 Volvo TAMD70D Diesel, 286HP, 2794 hours Transmission: Twin Disc 1.5:1 with Mathers controls Engine Notes: precooler and intercooler. Dual Racor filters, Block heater, Mathers Controls, Balmar high output alternator Engine Compartment DescriptionOriginally built to hold two gas engines, this space now has a single diesel which leaves a huge amount of space.  Additionally, there is no separation between lazarette and the forward bulkhead increasing the space available. You can enter through a hatch in the back deck for simple maintenance checks or pull up the wheelhouse floor hatches for bigger annual maintenance tasks. The engine room also holds batteries, inverter, fuel tanks, compressor for air horn and floaty toys, diesel furnace, hot water tank and finally, shelves for spare parts and equipment. All this and it still feels spacious! Tankage Fuel: 140 gallons in two 70-gallon black iron tanks Water:  90 gallons in stainless steel tank Blackwater:  17 gallons in poly tank History and ConstructionDr. Sheldon Wilkins of Bellingham commissioned Ed Monk Sr. to design a comfortable cruiser for the NW and Thunderbird was the result. Claude Wiley the builder used Alaskan yellow cedar planks on oak frames and fastened with silicone bronze. Her wedge seam construction gives her a smooth hull frequently confused with fiberglass. Her cabin sides are solid Philippine mahogany, and her cabin tops are plywood covered in fiberglass. Her decks are bright finished teak planking. Thunderbird was originally launched with twin gas motors but in 1984 Dr. Wilkins undertook a massive project removing the gas motors and running gear and replacing it with the current single Volvo TAMD70 diesel engine. Why he elected to undertake such a massive project is lost to time, but we are grateful. The result is a highly efficient cruising experience. Time eventually caught up with Dr. Wilkins and in 1995 he sold the boat. The next 10 years saw light usage between two owners and in 2003 the current owners brought her home to a boathouse in Port Orchard where she resides today. Come step aboard, you will not be disappointed! ExclusionsAll personal gear; artwork; loose items; galley gear; CD's; clock & barometer sets; charts; fishing equipment; tools; spare parts; supplies & items not specifically listed on equipment list specifications sheet.
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

DateEventPrice
4/15/26Initial price$39,500

Overview from around the web 1959 Monk Express Cruiser

Customers praise the 1959 Monk Express Cruiser for its classic design and solid craftsmanship

Many highlight the spacious and comfortable interior, making it ideal for leisurely cruises and family outings. The boat’s robust build and reliable performance on the water are frequently mentioned, along with its timeless style that continues to attract boating enthusiasts. Users also appreciate the ease of handling and the smooth ride, making it a favored choice for both experienced boaters and newcomers alike. Overall, the 1959 Monk Express Cruiser is celebrated for combining vintage charm with practical functionality.

The Biggest Pros and Cons

The 1959 Monk Express Cruiser offers a classic boating experience with several notable advantages and some considerations to keep in mind:

Pros

Timeless Design: The 1959 model features a classic, elegant design that appeals to vintage boat enthusiasts and collectors.

Solid Construction: Built with quality materials typical of the era, providing durability and a sturdy feel on the water.

Spacious Layout: Despite its size, the cruiser offers a comfortable cabin space suitable for weekend trips or day cruising.

Smooth Ride: Known for its stable handling and smooth performance in various water conditions.

Nostalgic Appeal: Owning a 1959 Monk Express Cruiser is ideal for those who appreciate maritime history and craftsmanship.

Cons

Maintenance Needs: Being a vintage vessel, it may require more upkeep and restoration work compared to modern boats.

Limited Modern Amenities: Lacks some of the contemporary conveniences and technology found in newer cruisers.

Fuel Efficiency: Older engine designs may not be as fuel-efficient or environmentally friendly as modern counterparts.

Parts Availability: Replacement parts can be harder to find, potentially leading to longer repair times and higher costs.

Performance Limitations: While smooth, the speed and maneuverability may not match that of modern express cruisers.

Made For

The 1959 Monk Express Cruiser is perfect for boating enthusiasts who appreciate classic design combined with reliable performance. Ideal for those seeking a stylish and comfortable vessel for leisurely cruises, weekend getaways, or family outings on the water, this cruiser offers timeless appeal and practical features suited for both experienced boaters and those new to boating. Its spacious layout and sturdy construction make it well-suited for individuals or small groups looking to enjoy relaxed, enjoyable time on lakes, rivers, or coastal waters.

Finance your dream boat!

Use our boat payment calculator to estimate monthly payments for 1959 Monk Express Cruiser. Enter your down payment, choose a loan term, and adjust the interest rate to see an instant payment estimate — ideal if you're calculating boat payments before you enquire. Wondering how much does a Motor Yacht cost in today's market, or how much does a Monk cost for similar models? This boat financing calculator helps you compare scenarios in seconds, whether you're considering used boat financing or a new purchase.
Monthly payment
$448.31/mo
$
$
Loan amount$ 39,500
OR
%

Finance your dream boat!

Use our boat payment calculator to estimate monthly payments for 1959 Monk Express Cruiser. Enter your down payment, choose a loan term, and adjust the interest rate to see an instant payment estimate — ideal if you're calculating boat payments before you enquire. Wondering how much does a Motor Yacht cost in today's market, or how much does a Monk cost for similar models? This boat financing calculator helps you compare scenarios in seconds, whether you're considering used boat financing or a new purchase.
Monthly payment
$448.31/mo
$
$
Loan amount$ 39,500
OR
%

Contact Chuck Hovey Yachts

717 Lido Park Drive, Suite A, Newport Beach, CA, 92663

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Newport Beach, CA 92663

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