1981 Formosa 47, EUR 79,000

The Formosa 47 is considered one of the most renowned classic bluewater cruisers of her era. With her elegant lines, extensive use of solid teak, and numerous handcrafted details, she embodies the traditional yacht-building craftsmanship of the early 1980s. At the same time, she offers the comfort and seaworthiness that continue to make her a highly sought-after choice among long-distance sailors and enthusiasts of classic yachts.

This Formosa 47 was built in 1981 and comes with an extensively documented history. Over several decades, the yacht has been actively sailed, maintained, and technically cared for by dedicated owners. A comprehensive collection of documentation, invoices, and records of investments provides valuable insight into the vessel’s past. Throughout her cruising life, she has sailed around Italy, along the Croatian coast, in Montenegro, and most recently in Greece, proving herself to be a reliable cruising yacht.

Due to her age, the vessel is currently in overall fair condition. Future owners should plan for the renewal of the standing rigging as well as refurbishment work on the teak deck and hull. This presents an excellent opportunity to further develop and personalize a classic bluewater yacht according to individual preferences.

Upon stepping aboard, visitors are immediately welcomed by the yacht’s warm and inviting atmosphere. High-quality woodwork dominates the interior, while numerous handcrafted carvings and details on doors and cabinetry emphasize the unmistakable character of the Formosa. The level of craftsmanship gives the yacht a timeless elegance rarely found on modern production boats.

The spacious owner’s cabin is located aft and offers generous storage space, comfortable headroom, and direct access to a private head compartment.

Amidships, the large saloon forms the heart of the yacht. New upholstery provides a fresh and well-maintained appearance. The saloon offers ample seating for crew and guests while creating a cozy atmosphere through its warm wooden interior. Adjacent to the saloon on the port aft side is the practical galley, featuring generous work surfaces and a secure layout suitable for use underway.

Forward, the yacht offers two separate cabins with bunk berths, providing comfortable accommodation for additional crew members or guests. An additional head compartment is located in the bow area.

On deck, the Formosa 47 impresses with generous space and practical layout. Wide side decks, a secure cockpit, and excellent freedom of movement create ideal conditions for relaxed cruising. The classic ketch rig distributes sail area efficiently and allows for flexible sail handling in a wide range of wind conditions.

Under sail, the Formosa demonstrates her greatest strengths. Even in moderate winds, she accelerates willingly and delivers a balanced, comfortable sailing experience. Thanks to her heavy-displacement hull and traditional design, she moves confidently through waves with a smooth and reassuring motion. On longer passages, she rewards her crew with excellent directional stability, forgiving handling characteristics, and a high level of onboard comfort.

This Formosa 47 combines classic yacht-building craftsmanship, a well-documented history, and a practical interior layout into an attractive overall package. She represents a solid foundation for sailors who appreciate the qualities of a traditional bluewater cruising yacht and are prepared to continue the necessary maintenance work to preserve her long-term value. The yacht is currently located on Corfu, Greece, and is available for viewing by appointment.

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Sails & Rigging

• Original rig
• Fully battened mainsail, 31 m², incl. sail cover (1993)
• Roller furling genoa, 71 m² (1993)
• Mizzen sail, 14 m², incl. sail cover
• Self-tacking jib, 18 m²
• Lazy Jack system

Engine & Systems

• Ford Lehman Type G, Model 2712E
• 85 HP
• Engine built: 12/1969
• Engine hours unknown
• Diesel tank: 500 L
• Shaft drive
• 3-blade fixed propeller
• Bow thruster installed (electrical connection currently not connected)
• Hempel Hard Antifouling applied 03/2026

Deck Equipment

• Deck shower
• Sprayhood
• Davits
• Gangway
• 80 m stainless steel anchor chain
• Electric anchor windlass
• 8 life jackets
• “Cruiser 4” life raft
• Cockpit cushions
• 12V / 200A alternator

Accommodation

• 3 cabins
• 7 berths plus saloon
• Approx. 1.90 m headroom
• 2 heads
• Manual toilets
• Gas stove (2013)
• Gas oven
• 1 refrigerator

Navigation

• Hydraulic steering
• Electric autopilot
• Wind instrument
• Speed log
• Depth sounder
• DSC VHF radio
• Wema GPS speedometer

Electrical System

• Service batteries: 4 x 60 Ah gel batteries (1–4 years old)
• Starter battery: 1 x 55 Ah
• Bow thruster batteries: 2 x 190 Ah
• Portable solar panel
• Shore power connection

Water & Sanitation

• Freshwater tank: 800 L
• Holding tank installed (currently not connected)
• Electric freshwater pump
• Water heater (2025)