1983 Vagabond 42 Ketch Boat in New Orleans, LA 70124 US
Built in 1983
42 Ketch
1 Engine (Yanmar)
41.7 feet
Diesel
Fiberglass/Reinforced
PRICE IMPROVEMENT: The asking price has been reduced to $45,000!
PROJECT VESSEL - 3/25 Insurance Survey Recommendations Available Upon Request
The Vagabond 42 was built by Bluewater Yacht Builders in Taiwan. The George H Stadell III design was built from 1978 to 1990. The Vagabond 42 was also known as the Westwind 42. The Vagabond 42 has a full keel design, which provides excellent stability and tracking ability in various sea conditions. It has a displacement of around 30,000 pounds, making it a heavy and solid boat that can handle offshore passages with ease. The boat features a spacious and well-appointed interior layout, with a large salon, galley, and multiple cabins. The salon includes a dinette, a settee, and a navigation station. The galley is equipped with a stove, oven, sink, and ample storage space for provisions. The master cabin has a double berth and an en-suite bathroom, and the two guest cabins share a head. On deck, the Vagabond 42 has a spacious cockpit with comfortable seating and a steering wheel. The deck layout is designed for easy handling and features wide side decks for safe movement around the boat. Overall, the Vagabond 42 is known for its seaworthiness, durability, and comfortable living spaces. It is a popular choice for long-distance cruising and has a reputation for being a reliable and capable bluewater sailboat. Arcadia is moored in the New Orleans Municipal Yacht Harbor, which is only a short drive from the New Orleans International Airport (MSY).
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ACCOMMODATIONS
- Layout: Three Cabin / Two Head Layout
- Air Conditioning: Cruisair 16,000 BTUs, reverse cycle with digital controls
- Ports: (14) opening ports
- Hatches: (4) opening hatches, fwd cabin hatch has a minor leak
- Fans: 12v
- Cabin Sole: Teak & Holly
- Nav Station: To Starboard, wood in fair condition with swing nav seat
- Dinette Table: To Port, Oval table
- Settee(s): To Starboard
- Cushions: Green
- Master Cabin: Aft with EnSuite Head, mattress has a few stains
- Guest Cabin(s): Fwd with upper & lower single berths
- Guest Cabin: Stb side with a large single berth, port side aft of fwd cabin
- Headroom: 6’3”
- Head(s): Two marine heads (electric fwd and manual aft) with sinks & showers
GALLEY
- Walkthrough
- Stove/Oven: 3 Burner stove and oven, propane
- Refrigeration: Whynter stand-alone unit
- Icebox: Top and Front loading, minor leak from the opening port above the icebox
- Sink: Large stainless steel
- Water: Hot & cold
- Water Heater: Whale F600W 6-gallon
- Cabinets: Yes
- Counter Top: Yes
- Tank: (1) Propane
- Grill: Magama, stern-mounted with cover
ELECTRONICS
- Plotter: Garmin GPSmap 740, 2016
- Autopilot: Garmin Actuator Class B Model B2, 2016
- Radar: Garmin mounted on the mizzen mast, 2016
- Speed: Raymarine ST60
- Depth: Raymarine ST60, display showing dashes
- Depth/Fish Finder: Garmin 300C, 2016
- Wind: Raymarine ST60
- VHF: Yes
- Compass: Yes
- EPIRB: ACR, expired
- TV: Salon
- TV: Master Cabin
- TV Antenna: Mounted on mizzen mast
ELECTRICAL
- 12v system: Yes
- 110v system: Yes
- Generator: NexGen 3.5 with Soundshield, installed after 2008
- Battery Charger: Promariner ProNautic 30amp
- Batteries: (2) AGM 8D, no covers
- Battery Selector Switches: Yes, but need to be remounted
- Inverter: Krieger
- Shore Power: 30 AMP service, 30amp pig tails with 15AMP cord
- Interior Lights: A combination of LED, Incandescent and 110v lights
- Nav Lights: Yes, stern, anchor, steaming & deck lights inoperable
- GFCI: Yes, but indicating reverse polarity
- 12v Outlet(s): Yes
- Solar Panels: Mounted on dinghy davits
SAILS & RIGGING
- Main: Dacron, 2015
- Genoa: Dacron, 2017
- Mizzen Main: Dacron, 2019
- Mast: Aluminum Deck Stepped, Double Spreader, Painted (peeling)
- Boom: Aluminum, raised 18"
- Mizzen Mast: Aluminum Deck Stepped, Single Spreader, Painted (peeling)
- Sail Covers: Main Stack Pack, Dark Blue, Mizzen mainsail, black, Genoa UV, black
- Roller Furling: Harken Unit 2
- Inner Forestay: Yes, no boom or sail
- Rigging: Needs to be replaced, broken lower, stb side
- Cockpit Winches: Barlow 20, Barlow 23, (2) Barlow 25 self-tailing, Barlow 20 self-tailing
- Mast Winches: (2) Barlow 20, Barlow 23, Barient 10
- Mizzen Mast Winches: Barient 10
- Backstay: Yes
- Traveler: Yes
- Boom Crutch:
- Mast Height: 57’
DECK & HULL
- Hull Color: White with black boot stripe
- Deck Color: Teak, painted
- Draft: 5’6
- Canvas: Bimini, 2015
- Covers: Helm, some hatches & grill
- Anchor: Ronca 33 with 5/8 chain & 3/4 3 strand rode
- Spare Anchor: CQR 35 with 5/8 chain & 3/4 3 strand rode
- Spare Anchor: Fortress FX23
- Windlass: Simpson Lawerence 555 Manual
- Anchor Roller: Double
- Cockpit Table:
- Rubrail: Teak, varnish peeling
- Dockside Water: Yes
- Bobstay: bent & loose
- Boarding Ladder: No
- Caprail & Rubrail: Teak, varnish is peeling
- Propane locker: Lid stuck in place
- Chain locker: drains into bilge
- Emergency Tiller: Yes, but access is blocked by deck covering
- Dinghy Davits: Stainless steel
- Outboard Crane: Stainless steel
- Bottom: The bottom was painted in 2024, cleaned on 3/25
MECHANICAL
- Engine: Yanmar 4JH11X1, replaced after 2008, date unknown, reported hours 1020, hourmeter cannot be read
- Engine Service: 1000 hr Service, 3/24
- Engine Control Panel: Poor condition
- Air Conditioning: Cruisair reverse cycle 16,000 BTUs with digital controls
- Prop: 3-blade fixed
- Steering: Wheel, wire, about 3" of play
- Stuffing box/gland:
- Water Heater: 6-gallon
- Bilge Pump(s): (2) Rule 500, (2) manual, 12V with alligator clamps and high water bilge alarm
- Filter(s): Racor 1000 water separator, engine
- Filter: Water Seperator, genset
- Head: Guest, Electric Whale Gulper head with y valve
- Head: Master, manual Jabsco with y valve
- Holding Tanks: Aluminium
- Fuel: (2) Aluminium, replaced date unknown & size unknown
- Water: (2) Aluminium
- Holding: (2) Aluminum
- Carbon Monoxide Detectors: No
- Smoke Detector: (2), inoperable
- Safety Gear: No
- Waste Mgmt Placard: No
The 1983 Vagabond 42 is a classic bluewater cruiser — perfect if you’re looking for:
- A robust offshore passagemaker, post-repairs
- A boat with a spacious, traditional interior for extended cruising
- Sail balance and ease of handling for short-handed crews
- A vessel with timeless style and sturdy construction
#Vagabond42, #Ketch, #Centercockpit, #BluewaterYachts, #Heavydisplacement
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.
Step aboard Arcadia, a classic 1983 Vagabond 42 cruising sailboat, a model well known among bluewater sailors for its heavy-displacement construction, traditional lines, and long-range cruising capability. Designed during an era when offshore durability and craftsmanship were top priorities, the Vagabond 42 has earned a reputation as a capable passagemaker with the strength and design features serious cruisers value.
Boarding from the cockpit, you’ll immediately notice the traditional layout and solid feel that define the Vagabond 42. The deep cockpit provides a secure sailing position while underway and offers comfortable seating for crew and guests when relaxing at anchor. The center cockpit design also allows for excellent visibility and creates separation between the sailing area and the private aft cabin below.
Moving forward along the deck, wide side decks and substantial handrails make it easy to move about the vessel. The large foredeck provides ample working space for sail handling and anchoring duties, reflecting the boat’s design as a capable offshore cruiser.
Stepping below through the companionway, Arcadia reveals the warm teak interior that is characteristic of traditional bluewater cruising yachts. Solid wood cabinetry, generous storage spaces, and a practical layout provide the foundation for comfortable life aboard during extended voyages.
The main salon offers a welcoming living space with settees to port and starboard and a center dining table, creating a natural gathering place for meals, relaxation, or passage planning. The classic interior joinery reflects the craftsmanship typical of cruising sailboats from this era.
The galley is positioned near the companionway, providing convenient access to the cockpit while offering a functional space for meal preparation underway or at anchor. With ample cabinetry, counter space, and essential cooking equipment, the galley supports the needs of sailors planning extended time aboard.
Forward, the guest cabins feature bunks in the forward cabin, and aft of the forward cabin, there is a single berth along with storage for gear and provisions. The nearby head compartment includes a marine toilet, sink, and shower area, providing practical onboard comfort.
One of the defining features of the Vagabond 42 is the private aft owner’s stateroom, accessible from the center cockpit. This cabin offers a spacious double berth along with storage lockers and cabinetry, creating a private retreat separated from the main living areas.
Arcadia represents a classic offshore cruising platform with strong bones and the proven design that has made the Vagabond 42 respected among long-distance sailors. However, this vessel will require significant updates and restoration. For the right buyer—particularly someone seeking a project boat with bluewater pedigree—Arcadia presents an opportunity to acquire a capable cruising yacht at an attractive value.
For sailors searching for a Vagabond 42 for sale, a bluewater cruising sailboat project, or a classic offshore vessel ready to be restored and personalized, Arcadia offers a solid foundation and the potential to once again become a capable long-range cruising yacht.
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 4/11/26 | Price decreased | $45,000(-10.0%) |
| 2/27/26 | Initial price | $50,000 |
1983 Vagabond 42 Ketch Video Tours
Overview from around the web 1983 Vagabond 42 Ketch
Customers appreciate the 1983 Vagabond 42 Ketch for its classic design and sturdy construction
Many highlight its spacious interior layout, which offers comfortable living quarters for extended voyages. Owners often praise the ketch rig for its versatility and ease of handling, making it suitable for both experienced sailors and cruisers seeking manageable sail plans. The robust build quality and seaworthy performance have earned positive remarks, especially for long-distance cruising and offshore adventures. Overall, the Vagabond 42 Ketch is valued for combining traditional aesthetics with practical sailing features, providing a reliable and enjoyable sailing experience.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 1983 Vagabond 42 Ketch is a classic cruising sailboat known for its sturdy construction and versatility. Here are some pros and cons to consider:
Pros
Solid Build Quality: The Vagabond 42 Ketch is well-known for its robust fiberglass hull and reliable craftsmanship, making it durable for long-distance cruising.
Ketch Rig Advantage: The ketch rig offers flexible sail configurations, which can make handling easier, especially for short-handed crews.
Spacious Interior: This model provides ample living space below deck, including comfortable cabins and a functional galley, ideal for extended voyages.
Good Storage: Plenty of storage compartments make it convenient for carrying supplies and gear on long trips.
Classic Aesthetic: Its traditional design appeals to sailors who appreciate a timeless, classic look.
Cons
Older Design: Being a 1983 model, some design elements and onboard systems may feel dated compared to modern yachts, potentially requiring upgrades.
Maintenance Needs: Older boats often require ongoing maintenance and occasional repairs, which can add to ownership costs.
Performance: While seaworthy, the Vagabond 42 Ketch may not be as fast or agile as more contemporary designs, particularly in light winds.
Ketch Rig Complexity: The additional mast and rigging mean more lines and sails to manage, which can be challenging for beginners.
Weight: The solid construction contributes to a heavier displacement, which may affect maneuverability and fuel efficiency under power.
Made For
The 1983 Vagabond 42 Ketch is ideal for adventurous sailors and cruising enthusiasts seeking a sturdy, classic vessel built for extended voyages. Its spacious design and reliable ketch rig make it perfect for those who value comfort, versatility, and dependable performance on long-distance trips or liveaboard sailing. Whether you're planning coastal cruising or offshore passages, this boat offers a timeless blend of functionality and traditional charm.
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Meet the Broker
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Other Information about Murray Yacht Sales
Serving the gulf coast since 1974.
Boat Location
Contact Murray Yacht Sales about 1983 Vagabond 42 Ketch
6500 Spanish Fort Boulevard, New Orleans, Louisiana, 70124
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