1981 Thackwray Motorsailor Boat in Tiburon, CA US

SUMMER WINE: Classic Elegance. Modern Technology. Unlimited Adventure.

A Timeless Bluewater Cruiser, Extensively Refit and Ready for Her Next Chapter.

For the discerning yachtsman who appreciates the timeless beauty of a classic sailing yacht but demands the reliability, performance, and comfort of modern technology, Summer Wine represents a truly exceptional opportunity.

This magnificent steel-hulled, full-keel ketch has undergone an extraordinary, comprehensive refit, transforming her into a beautifully restored world cruiser. From extensive structural restoration and new propulsion systems to modern navigation electronics, upgraded electrical systems, and a renewed sailing rig, virtually every major aspect of the yacht has received significant attention.

The result is a rare combination: the character, craftsmanship, and unmistakable presence of a traditional ocean-going yacht, complemented by the technology and systems expected aboard a modern luxury cruiser.

Designed for serious offshore passagemaking yet equally suited to leisurely coastal cruising, Summer Wine offers the strength, comfort, and versatility to explore the world's most remarkable cruising destinations.

An Extraordinary Refit

The scope of Summer Wine's restoration is truly impressive. Extensively documented in 2026, the refit included significant structural improvements, replacement hull plating and framing, renewed protective coatings, and substantial upgrades throughout the yacht's mechanical, electrical, and sailing systems.

At the heart of the transformation is a newly installed Volvo Penta D4 diesel engine, paired with a new ZF transmission, renewed driveline, Aquadrive thrust bearing, and five-blade Max-Prop. A Wesmar bow thruster provides additional maneuverability, while electronic engine controls at both the pilothouse and aft-deck helm stations make operating the yacht exceptionally convenient.

Above deck, her classic ketch rig has been extensively renewed with refinished aluminum masts, new stainless steel standing rigging, updated running rigging, and Leisure Furl in-boom furling systems. New UK Sails complement the upgraded rig, providing a combination of traditional sailing performance and modern sail-handling convenience.

Her sophisticated electrical upgrades include Victron lithium battery technology, advanced charging and inverter systems, and a newly installed Mase 7.5 kW generator, delivering the onboard power management capabilities essential for extended cruising.

These improvements represent an exceptional investment in the yacht's future and offer her next owner the opportunity to enjoy a classic yacht without taking on the extensive restoration project so often associated with vessels of this vintage.

Timeless Elegance Below Deck

Stepping aboard Summer Wine reveals the warmth, character, and craftsmanship that make classic yachts so special.

Her spacious pilothouse provides a commanding, protected helm station with comfortable settee seating and excellent visibility. Whether navigating offshore passages or enjoying a quiet morning at anchor, this inviting space serves as one of the yacht's most appealing features.

Below, the main saloon showcases beautifully finished high-gloss woodwork, rich blue leather upholstery, renewed carpeting, and elegant window treatments. The atmosphere is warm, sophisticated, and unmistakably nautical.

The generous interior layout provides multiple private accommodations, including an aft guest cabin with a double berth, an additional aft cabin with twin berths, a separate forward bunk room, and a spacious forepeak offering twin berths and a center double berth.

Three head compartments and two shower areas support extended cruising with family, friends, or additional crew.

A particularly valuable feature for long-distance voyaging is the dedicated forward crew galley and workshop area, complete with stainless steel work surfaces, sink, and convenient engine room access. This practical arrangement reflects the yacht's serious offshore cruising capabilities.

Designed for Life Aboard

Summer Wine has been thoughtfully equipped for comfortable extended stays aboard, with amenities that make cruising feel more like home.

Her well-appointed galley features stainless steel countertops, a five-burner LG induction cooktop, multiple ovens, a microwave, two refrigerators, and a separate freezer, providing ample flexibility for preparing meals during extended passages or entertaining guests at anchor.

An onboard washer/dryer, updated LED lighting, flat-screen televisions, and two newly installed on-demand electric water heaters further enhance the cruising experience.

With generous accommodations, abundant storage, and multiple living areas, Summer Wine offers the comfort and independence required for extended voyages.

Built for the Open Ocean

Beneath her graceful classic lines lies the strength and seaworthiness of a traditional steel cruising yacht.

Her full-keel hull, skeg-mounted rudder, and robust steel construction provide the reassuring foundation sought by experienced bluewater sailors.

The exterior restoration includes renewed hull coatings, handsome gray Awlgrip topsides accented by distinctive green and yellow boot stripes, refinished brightwork, varnished teak rail caps, and updated nonskid deck surfaces.

Her expansive aft cockpit offers comfortable seating and a second helm station, creating an inviting outdoor space for both sailing and entertaining. A protective pilothouse enclosure adds versatility when cruising in changing weather conditions.

Additional offshore equipment includes a substantial 105-pound CQR anchor, approximately 300 feet of anchor chain, a 24V Maxwell windlass, stainless steel lifelines, and a transom-mounted davit system.

Modern Navigation and Seamanship

While her appearance celebrates traditional yacht design, Summer Wine's navigation and operating systems are thoroughly contemporary.

Updated Simrad navigation equipment includes chartplotter, radar, depth instrumentation, and autopilot capabilities. Dual helm stations provide electronic engine controls and convenient steering options, while upgraded Icom VHF communications and renewed mast wiring support offshore operations.

Her modern sail-handling systems, bow thruster, upgraded propulsion equipment, and sophisticated electrical infrastructure combine to make a substantial cruising yacht more manageable and enjoyable.

A Rare Opportunity

There is something undeniably special about a classic yacht. The graceful lines, rich woodwork, substantial construction, and sense of history simply cannot be replicated in modern production yachts.

Yet owning a vintage vessel often requires significant time, investment, and ongoing restoration.

Summer Wine offers a compelling alternative.

With her extensive structural restoration, new propulsion equipment, renewed sailing systems, modern electronics, and comprehensive electrical upgrades, much of the heavy lifting associated with restoring a classic world cruiser has already been undertaken.

For the yachtsman dreaming of exploring the Pacific, cruising the Mediterranean, discovering remote anchorages, or simply enjoying the romance of traditional sailing, Summer Wine provides an extraordinary platform for the journey.

Classic in appearance. Modern in capability. Built for adventure.

Summer Wine is ready to begin her next chapter with an owner who appreciates the enduring beauty of a traditional yacht and the freedom of exploring the world under sail.