Engine
Westerbeke
Total Power
-
Engine Hours
2040
Class
Sail Cruiser
Length
42ft
Year
1981
Model
40
Capacity
-
Lux Yachts
Boat Details
Description
1981 Bristol 40 “Blue Heeler” – Classic Offshore Cruiser, Upgraded & Surveyed
Lux Yachts is proud to present the 1981 Bristol 40 “Blue Heeler”, a Ted Hood-designed bluewater cruiser renowned for its timeless lines and offshore capabilities. This vessel has been extensively upgraded in 2024 and recently surveyed with commendable results, offering a turnkey opportunity for discerning sailors.
Bristol Yachts Heritage
Founded in 1964 by Clinton Pearson, Bristol Yachts quickly established a reputation for producing high-quality fiberglass sailboats that combined traditional aesthetics with robust construction. Located in Bristol, Rhode Island, the company was instrumental in popularizing fiberglass hulls in the American sailing industry. Over its operational years, Bristol Yachts produced over 4,400 vessels, many of which remain cherished by sailors today.
Bristol 40 Design Excellence
The Bristol 40, introduced in 1970, was designed by renowned naval architect Ted Hood as a racer-cruiser. Built until 1986, with 149 units produced, the Bristol 40 is celebrated for its elegant overhangs, sweet sheer line, and seaworthy performance. Its modified long keel with a cutaway forefoot and keel-mounted rudder offers excellent tracking and stability, making it suitable for both coastal cruising and offshore passages.
2024 Upgrades & Survey Highlights
Engine & Mechanical:
Westerbeke 40HP diesel engine with 2,043 verified hours.
New alternator, water pump, impeller, coolant tank, hoses, starter, and fresh water pump.
New Jabsco manual head installed.
Sails & Rigging:
New Precision Sails partially battened mainsail and 130% Genoa.
All running rigging replaced.
Electronics:
Raymarine Axiom Pro 12" Chartplotter.
Raymarine i60 Instrument Displays.
Standard Horizon GX1410B VHF Radio.
Power Systems:
390W Renogy solar array.
Renogy 3000W Pure Sine Wave Inverter Charger.
Two Renogy LiFePO4 house batteries and a West Marine AGM starting battery.
Survey Findings:
Hull and deck are structurally sound with no soft spots or delamination.
Minor cosmetic gelcoat cracking typical for the vessel's age.
Overall rating: Average Condition.
Specifications
Length Overall (LOA): 40’2”
Beam: 10’10”
Draft: 5'8” (full keel)
Displacement: 17,580 lbs
Ballast: 6,500 lbs (lead)
Sail Area: 780 sq ft
Fuel Capacity:30 gallons
Water Capacity: 130 gallons
Interior Highlights
Traditional solid teak cabinetry and joinery in excellent condition.
Sleeping accommodations for six, including a forward V-berth, salon settees, and a quarter berth.
Upgraded Force 10 LPG galley stove and Sea Frost refrigeration.
Newly installed manual Jabsco head.
Dometic reverse cycle air conditioning.
The 1981 Bristol 40 “Blue Heeler” combines classic design, proven offshore capabilities, and modern upgrades, making it an exceptional choice for sailors seeking a vessel ready for immediate adventures.
Contact Information
Other Details
Disclaimer
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.
Propulsion
Engine Make:Westerbeke
Engine Hours:2040
Engine Type:Inboard
Fuel Type:Diesel
Specifications
Dimensions
Length Overall:40.17ft
Beam:10.83ft
Miscellaneous
Hull Material:Fiberglass
Tanks
Fresh Water Tank:
Fuel Tank:
Holding Tank: