2008 Oyster 56 Deck Saloon
$699,000
Boat in San Diego, CA 92106 US
Built in 2008
56 Deck Saloon
1 Engine (Yanmar)
57.3 feet
Diesel
Fiberglass/Reinforced
WHERE TRUE QUALITY SPEAKS FOR ITSELF
Manitou, a 2008 Oyster 56 G5 Deck Saloon Cutter (Hull #61), is one of the most complete and well-invested examples of this model available on the West Coast. Currently located in San Diego, she has been exceptionally maintained by her current owner since 2021 - with over $145,000 in documented, receipted upgrades - and is ready for serious offshore passagemaking or comfortable coastal living on her new owner's terms.
Designed by Rob Humphreys and built by Windboats Marine Ltd to Lloyd's standards and EU Category A - Ocean certification, the Oyster 56 was engineered without compromise. Her high form stability hull, low center of gravity bulb keel, and skeg-hung rudder deliver a confident, predictable motion at sea. This is a boat that earns trust on long passages.
On Deck
The G5 deck saloon profile gives Manitou clean, modern lines with excellent visibility and a light-filled interior. Teak laid decks, stainless steel pulpit, pushpit and stanchions, and well-placed handholds make moving around the boat secure in any conditions. The topsides were professionally buffed and waxed in August 2024 and present beautifully.
The center cockpit is spacious and well-protected, with generous seating forward of the helm - equally suited to passagemaking watches or relaxed evenings at anchor. A teak and stainless cockpit table with insulated cooler, full Sunbrella canvas package in navy blue, cockpit cushions, and a passerelle gangplank round out a cockpit that is as comfortable in the marina as it is offshore.
Sail handling is push-button simple from the helm. Lewmar electric primary winches and controls for the Reckmann hydraulic furling headsail and hydraulic in-mast furling mainsail are all within reach of the helm. A Harken manual staysail furler completes the cutter setup, giving real versatility offshore. A Sleipner bow thruster with Sidepower pedestal controls, paired with a 160hp Yanmar diesel and Aquadrive isolation system, makes docking straightforward in any conditions.
Rig and Sails
Triple spreader cutter rig, aluminum mast, keel-stepped. In 2023, Pacific Offshore Rigging performed a comprehensive rig overhaul - the mast was pulled, the standing rigging was completely replaced with new Dyform 1x19 SS316 compact strand custom-cut for every stay, and the Reckmann headsail furler was shipped to Germany for a complete factory overhaul. New running rigging, new lifeline wire, and new LED navigation lights and masthead steaming light were installed as part of the same project. Total rigging investment: over $70,000.
North Sails delivered a new high-tech mainsail and staysail in December 2021. The sail inventory includes the furling yankee, staysail, mainsail, and asymmetrical spinnaker with pole.
Below Deck
The deck saloon interior is flooded with natural light through large windows, opening ports, and overhead hatches. American white oak joinery with Oyster's millennium styling - black inlay details, shadow-gap panel joints, custom hardware throughout - all in excellent condition. Checkerboard teak cabin sole. Alcantara upholstery in the saloon, leather berth surrounds in the forward and owner's cabins. The result is a space that feels refined without being precious - practical and durable at sea, genuinely comfortable at anchor.
The layout flows logically from bow to stern: a spacious forward double cabin with centerline berth, vanity and hanging lockers; a twin cabin to port with upper and lower berths; a shared forward head to starboard with Jabsco electric head, separate shower stall, and Hansgrohe fixtures. Up a step to the full-beam saloon - large semi-circular settee to port with oval dining table, settee and folding directors chairs to starboard, drinks locker with glass stowage, and a Bosch washer/dryer fitted beneath. The nav station sits aft of the saloon with a full-size chart table and electronics flush-mounted in Alcantara fascia.
The galley is positioned off the companionway passageway to port - Force 10 4-burner gimballed propane stove with oven, Frigomatic stainless refrigerator and separate top-loading freezer, Panasonic microwave, twin stainless sinks with Seafresh water filter, and generous stowage throughout.
The private owner's stateroom aft features an offset double berth with leather surrounds, curved settee, dressing table, large hanging locker, abundant drawer and locker storage, and an en-suite head with separate shower stall, Hansgrohe fixtures, and electric heated towel rack. Four cabins, two full heads, seven berths.
Systems
Manitou is fully equipped for extended offshore and liveaboard use:
- Propulsion: Yanmar 4HLA-HTP 160hp diesel with Aquadrive isolation system, engine cooling system rebuilt August 2022
- Generator: Westerbeke 10.4KW diesel
- Watermaker: Seafresh 204A 220V - rebuilt with new membrane, November 2025
- Battery bank: New lithium bank installed October 2025
- Inverters: Two Mastervolt sine wave inverters (2500W and 800W)
- Shore power: 50amp/220V with second 30amp connection for A/C loads
- Air conditioning: Two Cruiseair 220V reverse cycle units - 16,000 BTU each (saloon and owner's stateroom) - serviced 2022
- Thru-hulls: All bronze FullFlo ball valves replaced throughout, Closs Marine, August 2024
- Anchoring: 75lb stainless anchor with 300' chain, 40lb Delta kedge, Lewmar electric windlass
- Electronics: Raymarine i70 instruments, full RayNet network integration, complete masthead wiring - Shelter Island Marine Electronics, 2023. ICOM IC-M802 SSB radio. Iridium Sat-trans 9505A satellite phone. VHF with cockpit remote. Autopilot. (Chartplotter and radar model details to be confirmed.)
- Dinghy: Zodiac with 25hp Yamaha outboard, Simpson davits
- Safety: 8-person ISAF life raft in canister, ACR GlobalFix EPIRB, Seafire fixed fire suppression in engine compartment, Raymarine LifeTag MOB system, jackstays, MOM-8 retrieval system
- Fuel: 277 gallons | Fresh water: 251 gallons
Over $145,000 in Documented Owner Investment (2021-2025)
Since purchasing Manitou in 2021, the current owner has invested methodically and with purpose. Major items include a complete standing and running rigging replacement with Reckmann furler factory overhaul, new North Sails inventory, full Raymarine electronics overhaul and integration by Shelter Island Marine Electronics, new lithium battery bank, watermaker rebuild, engine cooling rebuild, A/C and winch service, all new thru-hull fittings, hull buff and wax, haulout, and a new Zodiac dinghy with 25hp Yamaha outboard. Receipts available upon request.
The Bottom Line
Manitou is not a project. She is a proven, heavily upgraded, turn-key bluewater cruiser at a price that reflects genuine value. From San Diego, Baja is days away, the South Pacific is weeks away, and everything in between is well within reach. The hard work has been done. She is ready when you are.
2021 survey available upon request. Co-brokerage welcome.
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 4/10/26 | Initial price | $699,000 |
2008 Oyster 56 Deck Saloon Video Tours
Overview from around the web 2008 Oyster 56 Deck Saloon
Customers often rave about the 2008 Oyster 56 Deck Saloon for its exceptional blend of performance and comfort
Many appreciate the spacious and well-designed interior, which offers ample living space and natural light, thanks to the expansive deck saloon windows. The layout is frequently highlighted for its clever use of space, making it ideal for both long voyages and entertaining guests. Sailing enthusiasts note the vessel's impressive sailing capabilities, including strong performance in various sea conditions. The robust build quality and craftsmanship typical of the Oyster brand receive consistent praise, with many owners expressing confidence in the boat's durability and seaworthiness. Overall, the 2008 Oyster 56 Deck Saloon is celebrated for its luxurious amenities, thoughtful design, and excellent sailing performance, making it a favorite among experienced sailors and those new to the boating world alike. Customers appreciate that it strikes a perfect balance between elegance and functionality, providing a remarkable experience on the water.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The Oyster 56 Deck Saloon is a prestigious cruising yacht known for its blend of elegance, comfort, and performance. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of this remarkable vessel:
Pros
Spacious Interior: The deck saloon design offers a bright and airy interior with large windows, providing excellent visibility and a warm, inviting ambiance. This layout also maximizes space, making it perfect for extended cruising.
Quality Craftsmanship: Oyster Yachts are renowned for their exceptional build quality. The 2008 model features high-quality materials and craftsmanship, ensuring durability and longevity.
Strong Performance: The Oyster 56 is designed for performance sailing. Its hull shape, sail plan, and rigging contribute to impressive speed and stability, making it suitable for both coastal cruising and offshore adventures.
Comfortable Accommodations: With spacious cabins and thoughtful design, the yacht comfortably accommodates families or groups of friends. The galley is well-equipped for meal preparation on long journeys.
Versatile Cockpit Design: The cockpit is designed for ease of use, providing excellent visibility while sailing and a comfortable space for socializing when at anchor.
Good Resale Value: Oyster yachts are highly regarded in the market, and the 56 Deck Saloon typically maintains its value well due to its reputation and quality.
Customization Options: Owners often enjoy the ability to customize various elements of the boat, ensuring it meets their specific cruising needs.
Cons
Cost: As a high-end cruising yacht, the initial purchase price can be significant. Additionally, maintenance and operational costs tend to be higher compared to less premium brands.
Draft Considerations: With a moderate draft, the Oyster 56 may limit access to certain shallow anchorages, which could be a consideration for some cruising itineraries.
Weight: The solid construction adds weight, which can impact speed in light winds compared to lighter, more race-oriented yachts.
Complex Systems: The advanced systems onboard, while enhancing comfort and performance, can be complex to manage and may require knowledgeable maintenance.
Limited Outdoor Space: While the focus on interior comfort is a significant advantage, some may find outdoor living space limited compared to similar yachts designed with more emphasis on open deck areas. ### Conclusion The 2008 Oyster 56 Deck Saloon is an exceptional choice for those looking for a luxurious, well-built cruising yacht. With its impressive performance capabilities and comfortable living spaces, it truly embodies the spirit of adventure while still providing the comforts of home. However, potential owners should carefully consider the associated costs and operational factors to ensure it aligns with their sailing lifestyle.
Made For
The 2008 Oyster 56 Deck Saloon is designed for discerning sailors and cruising enthusiasts who seek both style and performance in their maritime adventures. Ideal for couples or small families, this yacht offers the spaciousness and comfort needed for extended voyages as well as weekends on the water. With its elegant deck saloon, the 56 provides stunning 360-degree views while enhancing the onboard experience with abundant natural light. Adventure-seekers will appreciate the robust build quality and reliable sailing capabilities, making it suitable for long passages or coastal cruising. The well-appointed interior is fit for those who value luxury, with high-quality finishes and ample living spaces. It's perfect for those who want the elegance of a cruising yacht without compromising on performance or sea-faring capability. Whether you are an experienced sailor or someone looking to embark on your first cruising adventure, the 2008 Oyster 56 Deck Saloon offers a harmonious blend of comfort, luxury, and functionality.
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Seattle Yachts was formed by the merging of Northwest Yachts which was founded in 1992 and Seattle Yachts which was founded in 1983. We have a great opportunity to serve you better, with locations in Washington, California, Florida, Maryland, Canada, and the Philippines! We represent 15 lines of new boats for you to choose from, as well as a fleet of previously owned vessels.
Boat Location
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5060 N Harbor Drive, Suite 155, San Diego, CA, 92106
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