1956 William Garden 45 YawlSold
$45,000
Boat in Wilmington, CA 90744 US
45 Yawl
1 Engine (Yanmar)
45 feet
Gas
Wooden
ANY and ALL offers will be put in front of our seller! Submit your offer today!
Rare, one of a kind William Garden Custom Yawl
***UPDATE DECEMBER 2024***
new toe rails installed, 4 coats of Cetol on toe rails, Sunbrella covers on hatchs, and freshening of Cetol on decks.
*** July 2024 Update***
The decks have been varnished with Cetol. The cabin has been painted, the hatches have been varnished and the Toe Rails are now being fitted.
***June 2024***
The Top 13 photos of the Gallery were taken in May 2024.
***May 2022 Update***
The 3 Cylinder Yanmar Engine has been installed. (See Photos at the end of the photo Gallery)
***April 2020 Update***
The engine is almost completely installed. The cockpit seats are being removed to install the fuel tanks and replace some cabin bulkheads.
***MARCH 2020***
The decks on the 45' yawl WHIRLWIND are now being refinished. Old caulk reefed out, loose screws replaced, missing bungs replaced, sanded, new caulking and the deck is completely oiled. It should be completely finished by the end of the first week of March 2020.
***UPDATE AUGUST 26, 2018***
New Photos of Whirlwind have been added to the gallery. A few at the top of the gallery and the rest at the bottom. The Masts are in place and the engine has been placed into the engine compartment. It's not set or operational yet. The Hatches have been refinished and reinstalled... See photos. Work will continue unless you're looking for a fantastic boat for you to experience putting the finishing touches on her.
*** UPDATE JULY 5, 2018***
Whirlwind was splashed on July 3rd. Photos are in the gallery. The Majority of the photos were taken July 3, 2018. The last 2 photos in the gallery are what she used to look like.
The masts will be stepped, and the engine installed around July 7th, 2018. Over the next few weeks, The hatches are being refinished, the brightwork will be refinished and we will update photos again
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"Whirlwind" 45' William Garden Custom. This yacht is an excellent example of the famous West Coast yacht designer's custom yawl. Ideal for off-shore, or coastal cruising. Built in the Chapman-Kalayjian yard of Costa Mesa in 1956. Originally commissioned as a one-design by Stu Babcock of Dana Point, California.
WHIRLWIND was cold-molded in western red cedar, two layers at 45-degree angle, using plastic staples. The chainplates have been replaced with new, the masts and booms have been refinished, and 40 ribs have been laminated in using quarter-inch marine ply. The work is excellent. There was rot in the deadwood at the prop shaft. That wood has been replaced.
*** UPDATE March 20, 2018***
The entire boat has been painted, with the Topsides being finished this week. Below the waterline has been painted and sealed and will be final coat bottom painted right before she goes back in the water.
The thru-hull for the prop shaft has been bored, and the engine, prop shaft, tube/packing glands/strut-cutlass bearing come next to finish her out of water work.
While we will always attempt to provide you with a TRUE representation of every vessel we market, during any purchase from Pop you will be encouraged to schedule an inspection from an independent, accredited surveyor and every purchase WILL ALWAYS BE subject to your satisfaction with the results from your independent survey and your own personal trial run.
We have several more Morgan, Gulfstar, Custom Built, and Hunter vessels for sale. If you're in the Los Angeles, Long Beach, Anaheim, or Santa Ana areas, please contact us to let us know what you're looking for and we'll get back with you today about any other yawl sailboat options we have locally that may meet your needs.
You have questions? We have answers. Call us at (941) 538-7803 to discuss this vessel today.
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 10/24/25 | Initial price | $45,000 |
Overview from around the web 1956 William Garden 45 Yawl
Customers praise the 1956 William Garden 45 Yawl for its timeless classic design and exceptional craftsmanship
Many highlight the boat’s sturdy construction and elegant lines, which reflect William Garden’s renowned naval architecture. Owners appreciate the spacious and well-thought-out interior layout, making it comfortable for extended cruising. The yawl rig is often noted for its versatility and ease of handling, especially in varying wind conditions. Additionally, users commend the boat’s excellent sailing performance and seaworthiness, making it a cherished vessel for both day sailing and long voyages. Overall, the 1956 William Garden 45 Yawl is celebrated for combining classic beauty with reliable, enjoyable sailing.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 1956 William Garden 45 Yawl is a classic sailing vessel known for its timeless design and solid craftsmanship. Here are some pros and cons to consider:
Pros
Classic Aesthetic: Designed by renowned naval architect William Garden, the yawl features elegant lines and traditional styling that appeal to classic yacht enthusiasts.
Solid Construction: Built in 1956, the boat typically features robust wooden craftsmanship, offering durability and a strong feel under sail.
Balanced Sail Plan: The yawl rig provides versatility and balance, making it easier to handle in various wind conditions and offering improved sail control.
Spacious Layout: At 45 feet, it provides comfortable accommodations for extended cruising or liveaboard use.
Timeless Appeal: The design has aged gracefully, often attracting collectors and sailors who appreciate vintage yachts with historical significance.
Cons
Maintenance Intensive: Being a wooden vessel from the 1950s, it requires regular and sometimes extensive maintenance to preserve its condition and seaworthiness.
Heavier Weight: Compared to modern fiberglass boats, the wooden construction results in a heavier hull, which can affect speed and handling.
Outdated Systems: Original mechanical and electrical systems may be outdated and in need of upgrading to meet modern standards for comfort and safety.
Limited Modern Amenities: The classic design may lack some of the conveniences and technologies found on contemporary yachts.
Availability of Parts: Finding replacement parts or skilled craftsmen familiar with vintage wooden yawls can be challenging and potentially costly.
Made For
The 1956 William Garden 45 Yawl is ideal for sailing enthusiasts who appreciate classic craftsmanship and timeless design. It is perfect for sailors seeking a sturdy, beautifully crafted vessel with traditional lines, suitable for both coastal cruising and extended voyages. This yawl appeals to those who value a combination of performance, elegance, and the rich heritage of a renowned naval architect.
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5717 Bessie Drive, Sarasota, FL, 34233
















































































































































