1973 Sparkman & Stephens 55 Custom ketch Southerly

1973 Sparkman & Stephens 55

Southerly

ENQUIRE

$199,000

Simpson Bay

OVERVIEW

FULL SPECS

DIMENSIONS

YACHT NAME:

1973 Sparkman & Stephens 55 Custom ketch Southerly

MODEL:

55 Custom ketch

BUILDER:

Sparkman & Stephens

YEAR BUILT:

1973

LOCATION:

Simpson Bay

ASKING PRICE:

$199,000

DESIGNER:

Sparkman & Steohens

HULL:

Aluminum

CATEGORY:

Ketch

DESCRIPTION:

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.