1979 Spencer 53

$129,000

Used

Boat in Bellingham, WA 98229 US

builtBuilt in 1979
Year the boat was built
model

53

Boat model
engine

1 Engine (Ford Lehman)

Engine type and count
length

53 feet

Overall boat length
fuel

Diesel

Fuel type
material

Fiberglass/Reinforced

Hull material
Length Overall
53ft
Beam
13.25ft
Dry Weight
30000lb
Ballast
13000lb
Cabins
4
Heads
2
Fresh Water Tanks
260gal
Fuel Tanks
360gal
Holding Tanks
40gal
Hull Material
fiberglass
Hull Shape
displacement
Engine 1
Engine Make
Ford Lehman
Engine Model
80
Total Power
80hp
Engine Hours
3500
Engine Type
inboard
Fuel Type
diesel
Engine Year
1979
Drive Type
direct
Summary
Strongly built and capable blue water cruiser. Reliable Ford Lehman diesel, flexible ketch rig and massive tankage make this a solid choice for around the sound, or around the world, crusing. 135k spent in major refit in 2023-2025 In very good condition with recent survey!
Highlights
  • Proven bluewater cruiser (trip to New Zeland by first owner) recently refitted for long range cruising
  • Flexible ketch rig
  • Massive tankage - 260 gals of water and 360 gals of fuel
  • 3 sleeping cabins
  • Reliable Ford-Lehman 80hp diesel 
  • 4.5 Kw generator
  • New electronics package - GPS / Radar
  • Rigging recently inspected (Norseman fittings)
  • New 10'5" Highfield dingy
  • Off-shore life raft - re-certified in 2025
  • Watermaker
  • Wind generator


Re-fit

Major refit in 2023-25 in preparation for offshore passage

  • New Garmin Electronics package,(helm and nav station)
  • New Furuno Radar Package
  • New Onan 4.4kw Generator
  • New Roller Furling 140% head sail
  • New Mast seal
  • New Mast Tri-color Nav and Steaming light
  • New Mast climbing steps
  • Masts and rigging tuned 
  • New Starter (10/01/25)
  • New wiring harness from helm to engine room
  • New water heater
  • New battery charger/wiring/system
  • New Start Battery
  • New Strong Track (main sail)
  • New Running Rigging
  • New Staysail Quick Disconnect
  • New Bottom Paint 
  • New Thru hulls (3) and valves
  • New Fresh Water Pump 
  • Water tanks cleaned and treated
  • Life raft recertification (06/25)
  • New EPIRB (Good to 2035)
  • Re-keyed locks
  • Fire extinguisher recert (06/25)


Accomodations
  • Forward stateroom with v-berth 
  • Forward head with shower
  • Midship pilot berth
  • Aft owners stateroom with ensuite head and direct access to the cockpit
  • Galley with SS sink, propane stove and oven, microwave and refrigeration
  • Additional freezer in the mechanical space
  • Salon with port and starboard settees and folding teak table
  • Nav station to starboard


Electrical / Electronics
  • Garmin GPSMap 62 MFD chartplotter
  • Furuno LS4100 radar
  • W-H autopilot
  • ACR EPIRB
  • Standard Horizon VHF
  • Kenwood SSB
  • Wind generator 
  • Onan 4.5Kw generator
  • 4 - Tojan 6 volt batteries for engine start
  • 4 - Trojan 6 volt batteries for house bank
  • 80 amp Xantrex battery charger
  • 3000 watt Xantrex inverter
  • Guest galvanic isolator
  • Solar panel


Deck / Rig
  • Ketch rig
  • New mainsail
  • Electric windlass
  • Plow anchor with 250' of 1/2' chain
  • Danforth stern anchor with rode
  • Releaseable forestay
  • Hard dodger with cockpit enclosure
  • Outboard motor bracket
  • New 10' 6" Highfield dingy
  • Barbeque mounted on stern rail
  • Hard dodger


Additional Information
  • Tynamara is a proven passagemaker having across the pacific and back with a previous owner. Current owner did a very professional re-fit in preparation for a circumnavigation. Unfortunately medical issues will prevent him from doing so and the boat has been put up for sale..


Generators
Generator 1
Make
Onan
Model
4.5
KW
4.5
RPM
0
Hours
0
Detail
Onan, 4.5, 4.5 KW

Price History

DateEventPrice
11/11/25Initial price$129,000

Overview from around the web 1979 Spencer 53

Customers praise the 1979 Spencer 53 for its classic design and robust construction

Many appreciate its spacious interior layout, which offers comfort for extended voyages. The boat's solid build quality and reliable performance in various sea conditions receive frequent commendations. Owners also highlight the timeless aesthetic appeal and the vessel's capability as both a cruiser and a liveaboard. Overall, feedback emphasizes the Spencer 53 as a well-crafted, dependable yacht with enduring charm.

The Biggest Pros and Cons

The 1979 Spencer 53 is a classic sailing yacht known for its robust construction and timeless design. Here are some pros and cons to consider:

Pros

Solid Build Quality: The Spencer 53 is renowned for its sturdy fiberglass hull and strong craftsmanship, making it durable for long-distance cruising.

Spacious Interior: With a generous beam and well-thought-out layout, it offers comfortable living spaces suitable for extended voyages.

Good Sailing Performance: Designed for bluewater sailing, it handles well in a variety of sea conditions, providing a stable and reliable ride.

Classic Aesthetic: Its traditional lines and elegant design appeal to enthusiasts of classic yachts.

Ample Storage: Plenty of storage space for provisions and gear, ideal for long-term cruising.

Cons

Age-Related Maintenance: Being a vessel from 1979, it may require ongoing maintenance and updates to systems and equipment to meet modern standards.

Older Systems: Electrical, plumbing, and navigation systems might be outdated and could need refurbishment or replacement.

Weight: The solid construction results in a heavier displacement, which can affect speed and maneuverability compared to lighter modern designs.

Limited Availability of Parts: Some original components may be harder to find due to the boat’s age and classic status.

Less Modern Amenities: Lacks some of the contemporary conveniences and technologies found in newer yachts.

Made For

The 1979 Spencer 53 is ideal for sailors and cruisers seeking a classic, sturdy, and spacious yacht designed for long-distance cruising. Its robust construction and timeless design make it perfect for those who appreciate traditional craftsmanship combined with reliable performance on extended voyages. Whether you're an experienced sailor looking for a capable bluewater cruiser or someone desiring a comfortable and elegant vessel for coastal exploration, the Spencer 53 offers a blend of durability, comfort, and classic style.

Finance your dream boat!

Use our boat payment calculator to estimate monthly payments for 1979 Spencer 53. 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 Ketch cost in today's market, or how much does a Spencer 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
$1,464.11/mo
$
$
Loan amount$ 129,000
OR
%

Finance your dream boat!

Use our boat payment calculator to estimate monthly payments for 1979 Spencer 53. 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 Ketch cost in today's market, or how much does a Spencer 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
$1,464.11/mo
$
$
Loan amount$ 129,000
OR
%

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1019 Q Ave, Suites A & B, Anacortes, WA, 98221

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