1973 Sparkman and Stephens Custom Ketch 55, 199 000 USD

Sparkman & Stephens 55 Custom Ketch 1973 – SOUTHERLY
Classic aluminum centerboard ketch with unique pedigree, recent major upgrades, and shallow-draft versatility

SOUTHERLY was originally commissioned for a leading member of the New York Yacht Club. A half-model now hangs in the famed Model Room. She is currently owned by a former Commodore of the Royal Ocean Racing Club and now sails under the ensign of the Royal Irish Yacht Cub.

With her classic lines, ketch rig, and lifting keel, she represents a true modern classic.

Built by Paul E. Luke to a Sparkman & Stephens design, SOUTHERLY blends heritage, offshore capability, and practical cruising comfort. Her lifting keel gives her unusual versatility, allowing access to close-shore anchorages, inlets, and beaches that many yachts of similar size cannot reach.

Today she is a comfortable and capable cruising yacht that has been well-maintained and upgraded. Recent improvements include a new Yanmar engine in 2017, electronics and sails in 2021, standing rigging in 2022/23, major brightwork maintenance in 2024, and epoxy-sealed hardwood deck trim in 2026.

SOUTHERLY's design success was noted by Gary Jobson, in his book, An American Sailing Story (2011), Gary sailed her regularly with his wife and daughters and commented on her balanced lines and performance. She remains a fast and capable passage maker with the warmth, joinery, and style expected of a classic gentleman's yacht. She has been cruised extensively in Europe and the Caribbean in the past two decades and she regularly attracts admiring comments under sail and at the quayside.

IDEAL USAGE
• Bluewater cruising and transoceanic passage making
• Caribbean island-hopping with access to shoal anchorages thanks to lifting keel

Key Features:
• Aluminum hull
• Sparkman & Stephens design
• USA Built – no tariff
• Versatile ketch rig
• Recent electronics

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