is bluewater yachts still in business

• Search forums

Follow along with the video below to see how to install our site as a web app on your home screen.

Note: This feature may not be available in some browsers.

• Trawler Forum
• Welcome Mat

Opinions on Bluewater Yachts

• Thread starter roeloffs
• Start date Jan 28, 2015
• Jan 28, 2015

I have a nordhavn N46 and it is for sale. This decision came after realizing that our blue water days are over mainly due to age pure and simple. Now our boating days are not over and a few years on the great loop sound very appealing. I am looking at 51/52 foot Bluewater Yachts, diesel 1995 or newer. We would want more outdoor entertaining space than many double or triple cabins allow. Does anyone have opinions on the Bluewater yachts? Does anyone have a better suggestion with regard to a different brand ? Mainly I will need a max of 30 inch draft, 17 feet air draft reduceable to 15 feet. Thanks for any help on these issues. Kurt  

• Jan 29, 2015

pilothouse king

You might want to pay attention to their engine locations and fuel tanks. I would instead put my attention toward an all aluminum Lazy Days that were built in Buford Georgia. There's many sitting on Lake Lanier. They even built an ocean going version with a high bow. One actually finished the Miami -Nassau race in the 60s.. It came across the finish line with a party on the roof BBQing. I used to have a 8x10 photo, but gave it to the buyer of a sistership, which is now back up in Georgia. I also had factory photos of a Bluewater running back and forth across the Potato Patch in heavy seas. A partner of mine told me he was given a seatrial off Hatteras after a hurricane in a Bluewater. He was impressed with the ride. Many had Coast Guard certication for x amount of miles offshore. Also gave those to a buyer who uses her in river charters on the St. Johns in Jax. The construction issues of the Bluewaters came up later in their lives.  

Bluewater boats are rather common in the Upper Midwest. They are built in Mora MN, as I recall, is a northern suburb of Minneapolis. They are impressively styled but in my opinion are not more than a stylish houseboat. Some are styled to be very impressive to the not very astute consumer to look like a mega yacht but at the end of the day, end up being houseboats. most are gas engine powered, the owners not realizing the value of diesel, and not ever going to get to the usage level where a diesel(s) make sense. They are not a boat that typically holds its value 20 years after they are built. I am somewhat hesitant to post this as I don't want to offend blue water owners but my honest view of them is a boat for not very astute yacht wannabe's. When they are newish they are very impressive boats for the money but they don't age well.  

roeloffs said: I have a nordhavn N46 and it is for sale. This decision came after realizing that our blue water days are over mainly due to age pure and simple. Now our boating days are not over and a few years on the great loop sound very appealing. I am looking at 51/52 foot Bluewater Yachts, diesel 1995 or newer. We would want more outdoor entertaining space than many double or triple cabins allow. Does anyone have opinions on the Bluewater yachts? Does anyone have a better suggestion with regard to a different brand ? Mainly I will need a max of 30 inch draft, 17 feet air draft reduceable to 15 feet. Thanks for any help on these issues. Kurt Click to expand...

Greetings, Boat options aside...WELCOME ABOARD.  

Moderator Emeritus

Bayliner 4788  

Attachments

I do believe Bluewater did go out of business a few years ago. There's a short discussion on Hull Truth about it that I think I started. We used to live near Mora. Last I checked their website still existed but had frozen since about 2009. That said, there are a couple of them in our marina (South Dakota, Missouri River). One of them in particular called the Duchess is one of the nicest boats in the marina in my opinion (newer model). Yeah, I wouldn't cross the Atlantic in it, but it's much more capable and seaworthy than a typical houseboat box on the water. The newer models (2000's before they shut down) are a nicely designed hybrid between the comforts and space of a houseboat and a "real" boat you'd actually motor somewhere. Build quality looks pretty good to me. My wife loves the Duchess, if we weren't going to do the Loop someday or cross the Great Lakes, we would have seriously considered buying one.  

Following the houseboat theme Harbor Master made a few coastal models with elevated bows. May want to put that make into the Yachtworld search engine and see what you think. Some of them where diesel powered as some of the Bluewater brand are too. Good luck in your search.  

My experience has not been favorable The few I've worked on had serious deck delamination issues from the fly bridge back. They are not west coast capable coastal cruisers. Window leaks, deck delamination, wiring issues, dry rot. They do entertain a lot of people however. They are not even in the same league with a Bayliner 4788 which entertains as many and is coastal capable. My dockside neighbor owned a Blue water, there is no direct comparison between the two. If I was in the market for a house boat that is what I would get, a good quality aluminum houseboat.  

That could very well be true. The fresh water environment around here is pretty gentle on boats, relatively speaking. Our zincs and bottom jobs last for years, at the end of the season we can usually hose off a thin layer of hull slime and we're done. I'd agree with you on the 4788 too, not a close call in my mind, as nice as that Bluewater may be. The Bayliner is more boat than houseboat if we're talking about hybrids.  

If you visit the St Louis, Nashville or Louisville boat shows the houseboat of your dreams will show up. Some of them are amazing.  

You may want to take a look at Pluckebaum. They make some pretty substantial diesel powered house boats. Pluckebaum Coastal Yacht  

Senior Member

I had a rather lengthy discussion with a former Bluewater owner. I too was looking at them initially and was impressed with the comfortable layout. I mentioned that we were looking for something to live aboard full time, and travel to the Bahamas, T&C, and Eastern Caribbean. This lady mentioned that she and her husband owned one for about 6 years, and had plans for doing the Great Loop in it. They live here in Ft. Myers so we were both familiar with the waters around here. She mentioned to me that it was NOT a boat to take out in anything over 4' seas. She said it was a very rough ride - due to the extremely shallow draft, that it would really roll around. They ended up selling it - it took them nearly 3 years to sell it - and said that they got lucky as someone from China came over, wrote them a check and bought it (she laughed and said "yes, the check did clear the bank!"). She said that it was a nice comfortable floating condo, but that it really was a houseboat that looked like a yacht.  

Similar threads

• Mar 4, 2024
• General Discussion

• Mar 11, 2024
• Voyagers and other Boaters on the Go!
• Apr 22, 2024
• Power Systems
• Dec 23, 2023
• Sep 4, 2023

Latest posts

• Latest: Billywilly
• 11 minutes ago
• Latest: jgwinks
• 16 minutes ago

• Latest: proudsailor
• Today at 8:37 PM
• Latest: Jcslocum
• Today at 8:36 PM

• Latest: Comodave
• Today at 7:53 PM
• Latest: luna
• Today at 7:37 PM
• Latest: Genesis
• Today at 6:46 PM

• Latest: Pau Hana
• Today at 6:30 PM

• Latest: sailorskip
• Today at 6:23 PM

News & Blog

All the latest news and events from the world of yachting..

The Bluewater Difference

At Bluewater, our vision is to be the definitive leader in crafting exceptional boats that inspire lifelong passions for the water. Through our unwavering commitment to innovative design, superior craftsmanship, and cutting-edge technology, we aim to create an unparalleled boating experience that exceeds the expectations of our customers worldwide. Guided by our legacy of excellence and a deep appreciation for the sea, we envision a future where every journey aboard a Bluewater boat becomes an extraordinary adventure, forging unforgettable memories with family and friends, and fostering a profound connection with the wonders of the marine world.

To all of our great customers we thank you for your confidence and trust in allowing us to build your dream. For those of you considering the purchase of a new Bluewater we look forward to the opportunity. One thing will never change: Once you own a Bluewater, you’re a member of the family. Safe boating and good fishing! Paul Skilowitz - Founder

Our Commitment

When you choose Bluewater Sportfishing Boats, you're choosing a commitment to excellence in every aspect of your fishing journey: Quality Craftsmanship: Our boats are built with meticulous attention to detail using only the finest materials. Each vessel is a masterpiece of engineering and design, ensuring a safe and enjoyable fishing experience. Innovation: We stay at the forefront of boat design and technology. From advanced navigation systems to cutting-edge fishing amenities, our boats are equipped with features that enhance your fishing success and overall enjoyment. Customization: We understand that every angler has unique preferences. That's why we offer a range of customizable options, allowing you to tailor your boat to your specific needs and style. Durability: Our boats are built to last, even in the most challenging offshore conditions. We use industry-leading construction techniques and materials to ensure your investment stands the test of time.

Paul Skilowitz Founds Bluewater Sportsfishing Boats

The Bluewater 2550 Releases

The Bluewater 25T Releases

• CREATE AN ACCOUNT
• Boat Cover Finder
• Bimini Top Finder
• Boat Propeller Finder
• Engine Parts Finder
• Anchor & Dock
• Watersports
• Clothing and Footwear
• Engine Parts
• Cabin and Galley
• Covers and Biminis
• Electronics
• Paint and Maintenance
• Pumps and Plumbing
• Anchor Chains & Ropes
• Boat Fenders
• Boat Mooring
• Boat Protection
• Dock Storage & Protection
• Ladders, Steps, & Platforms
• Top Sellers

• Fishing Rods
• Fishing Reels
• Fishing Rod & Reel Combos
• Fishing Tools & Tackle Boxes
• Fishing Line
• Fly Fishing
• Fishing Bait & Fishing Lures
• Fishing Rod Holders & Storage Racks
• Fish Finders, Sounders & Sonar
• Trolling Motors
• Fishing Nets
• Fishing Downriggers & Acessories
• Fishing Outriggers & Acessories
• Fishing Kayaks
• Fish Cleaning Tables

• Inflatable Rafts
• Paddle Boarding
• Paddles & Oars
• Wakeboard, Wakesurf & Ski
• Wakeboard Towers
• Tow Ropes & Handles
• Life Jackets & PFDs
• Snow Sports
• Roof Racks, Carriers, Dollies

Men's Clothing

• Accessories

Men's Footwear

• Atheltic Shoes
• Water Shoes

Women's Clothing

• Dresses & Skirts

Women's Footwear

• Fuel Systems
• Sacrificial Anodes & Zincs
• Generator Parts
• Inflatable Boats
• Propeller Parts & Accessories
• Boat Manuals
• PWC Parts & Accessories

• Fishing Boat Seats
• Offshore Boat Seats
• Ski Boat Seats
• Pontoon Boat Seats & Furniture
• Boat Seat Pedestals & Hardware
• Boat Seats by Manufacturer
• Boat Tables & Hardware
• Boat Seat Covers
• Boat Seat Vinyl
• Floating Boat Cushions

• Barbeque Grills
• Boat Drink Holders
• Cabin Accessories & Hardware
• Boat Ventilation
• Interior & Cabin Lighting
• Marine Teak Products
• Carbon Monoxide & Smoke Detectors
• Binoculars & Telescopes

Boat Bimini Tops

• Bimini Top Accessories
• Pontoon Bimini Tops
• Other Biminis
• RV & Trailer Covers
• Boat Shrink Wrap & Accessories
• Boat Shelters

Boat Covers

• Boat Cover Accessories
• Boat Lift Canopy Covers
• Other Covers
• Boat Wiring & Cable
• Marine Batteries & Accessories
• Marine DC Power Plugs & Sockets
• Marine Electrical Meters
• Boat Lights
• Marine Electrical Panels & Circuit Breakers
• Power Packs & Jump Starters
• Marine Solar Power Accessories
• Marine Electrical Terminals
• Marine Fuse Blocks & Terminal Blocks
• Marine Switches
• Shore Power & AC Distribution

• Marine Audio & Video
• GPS Chartplotters & Accessories
• Electronic Navigation Charts & Software
• Digital Instruments
• Display Mounts
• VHF Radios & Communication
• Marine Radar
• Auto Pilot Systems
• Action Cameras

• Fiberglass & Epoxy Boat Repair
• Boat Paint & Varnish
• Marine Adhesives, Sealant, & Caulking
• Marine Engine Maintenance
• Boat Cleaners & Waxes
• Boat Cleaning Supplies

• Fresh Water Boat Systems
• Bilge Pumps
• Marine Plumbing Parts
• Wash Down Pumps
• Livewell Aerator Pumps & Live Bait Wells
• Toilet & Waste Pumps
• Marine Pump Replacement Parts

• Tires, Rims, & Hub Kits
• Boat Trailer Winches
• Boat Motor Supports & Transom Savers
• Boat Trailer Guides & Rollers
• Boat Trailer Fenders
• Boat Trailer Lights
• Boat Trailer Hardware
• Boat Trailer Jacks
• Boat Trailer Brakes & Axles
• Boat Trailer Tie Downs
• Couplers, Mounts, Hitches, & Locks

• Boat Deck Harware
• Marine Nuts, Bolts, & Screws
• Boat Handles, Pulls, & Rings
• Prop Nut Kits & Hardware
• Boat Cabin Hardware
• Marine Fasteners
• Boat Windshield Parts
• Boat Tubing & Rails
• Boat Mirrors
• Marine Tools & Tool Kits
• Boat Lettering

• Women's Clothing Deals
• Men's Clothing Deals
• Fishing Deals
• Anchor & Dock Deals
• Electrical Deals
• Electronics Deals
• Paint & Maintenance Deals
• Pumps & Plumbing Deals
• Boat Seats Deals
• Trailering Deals
• Camping & RV Deals
• Dealer Login

• Forums Login

• Search forums
• General Boating/Outdoors Activities
• Boat Topics and Questions (not engine topics)

How is the quality of Bluewater boats?

• Thread starter wink21
• Start date Sep 11, 2009
• Sep 11, 2009

So far, I've walked away from a couple of boats based on input from the forum and lost out on a couple of good ones that were snapped up quick. I just came across this one http://detroit.craigslist.org/mcb/boa/1369163351.html In all of my boat reading in past couple of months, I have not come across Bluewater. Does anyone know about these boats? It has one of the motors that has been highly recommended on the form - the 3L/130HP Mercruiser Any input or advice on this would be appreciated. I simply don't want to buy a boat with a bad trackrecord or that has a hard time with finding parts. Thanks Scott  

Supreme Mariner

Re: How is the quality of Bluewater boats? Haven't heard anything particular bad about them. I don't believe they are in business any longer. That one has a reliable powerplant which should be good power in that sized boat and the price is certainly right. Check carefully for rot in the deck and transom. Could be a real nice find.  

Chief Petty Officer

Re: How is the quality of Bluewater boats? My grandfather still to this day cruises his 1967 Blue Water all over the place, it is in great condition and has had no major problem with more that 3000 hours on it. They are like any other boat, if you take care of it it will last a lifetime.  

• Sep 12, 2009

Re: How is the quality of Bluewater boats? Blue Water is now owned by Kal Kustom boats, same folks that own Reinell. The two come off their plant in Oregon, and are still in business. The current boats usually share the same hulls at the Reinell boats, or use older molds. I see a number of Blue Water boats here in the NW. I'm not sure when they were bought by Kal Kustom.  

• Forum Listing
• Marketplace
• Advanced Search
• About The Boat
• Boat Review Forum
• SailNet is a forum community dedicated to Sailing enthusiasts. Come join the discussion about sailing, modifications, classifieds, troubleshooting, repairs, reviews, maintenance, and more!

Who still makes a Bluewater boat?

• Add to quote

Who would you put on your short list of Bluewater boats still being manufactured today? Here is some general criteria: protected rudder, lead keel, good tankage, two double berths (not counting settee), less than 50 feet. The manufacture should also have a decent dealer in the US. Now the catch. It doesn't have to be cheap, but it does have to be a good value. Luxury yachts need not apply!!! Above all "It needs to be a good family boat for a couple and two kids". Just to get things going I will throw out Passport, Cabo rico, Island Packet, tartan, Pacific seacraft???, gozzard. What do you think?  

Hallberg Rassy, Valiant and Nauticat come to mind. While these boats are a bit on the higher price side, I wouldn't call them luxury...not like the Moodys or Swans. Amel is also out there... but ugly IMHO.  

I would also say Caliber yachts would fit your bill. Not sure why you excluded Island Packet, Cabo Rico and Passport other than their tankage for which than I would agree. Not sure why boat manufactures would not figure out how to put more fuel on the boat. 500 miles motor-sailing is a must in my opinion if bluewater cruising. I cannot count that high on how many cruiser logs I have read where they run out of fuel due to wind dies or wind on the nose and are forced to motor-sail. It seems like 20-35% of bluewater cruising is motor-sailing. Carrying fuel Jerry cans on deck is not my thing. I like a clean deck. Now for the more exotic boat, I would drool over a Vagabound 47'. Great family boat. Plus it looks soo cool. Can one say "Argggg matie"! Here is there link! http://www.contemporaryyachts.com/default.htm  

Melrna said: I would also say Caliber yachts would fit your bill. Not sure why you excluded Island Packet, Cabo Rico and Passport other than their tankage for which than I would agree. QUOTE] Click to expand...

Does Oyster qualify? The ones at our marina sure look like they can easily cross oceans in both luxurious comfort and style.  

Yea they qualify.  

Oyster is just what I am not looking for. While they are very nice, I was looking for a family cruiser not a luxury yacht. Valient is a good out though.  

Unless I am mistaken contest is also more of a luxury yacht. I guess I should have put in a price range of 500k or less. Not a million.  

Contest is a yacht and reasonably well appointed. But if you look at older models they are pretty basic. What is considered luxurious? Which is an interesting question. Some might say roller furling is a luxury... or self tailing winches... or an electric windlass... or hot water. I consider those necessities for cruising and I could go on. jef sv shiva  

If you're looking at $500k, you'll have a hard time keeping Passport and Cabo Rico on the list. You can't forget about Tayana either. Melrna - why do you think there is a problem with tankage on Passports? I carry 115 gals of fuel and 125 gals of water. I'd say that's pretty decent for a 40 foot 50hp iron genny bluewater boat.  

My three would be Cabo Rico, Passport, and Tayana.  

For a 33 footer, I've always been impressed by the tankage on my boat - 160 gals of diesel, split in two tanks, providing 800 nm motoring range, and a 140 gal water tank. We have no intentions of making any ocean passages over 200 nm though - coastal cruising fills our needs just fine. It's just comforting knowing that structurally, it can take a licking.  

TrueBlue said: For a 33 footer, I've always been impressed by the tankage on my boat - 160 gals of diesel, split in two tanks, providing 800 nm motoring range, and a 140 gal water tank. Click to expand...

TrueBlue, That is impressive tankage. My Tayana has 120 gallons of fuel and 150 of water.  

Guess the reason why some here call her "a tub with sails" is for accommodating all the stuff she comes with. (g)  

Sorry about putting Passports on my fuel list. The Passport boats are #3 on my list of bluewater boats I would buy. I was having a senior moment.  

You are not allowed to have a senior moment, you are much to young. I'm 88 and therefore am permitted senior moments.  

You might check out this builder http://www.eastsail.com/index.html Sometimes I just go to his site and dream..  

Jom's... You don't have to be Danish to like najads...great boats but unfortunately quit pricey here in the states due to the Euro/Dollar theses days. I don't like that Nordborg at all from what i can see for cruising blue water but I do like the "alternative fuel" auxillary power on that last one! (g)  

camaraderie said: I don't like that Nordborg at all from what i can see for cruising blue water but I do like the "alternative fuel" auxillary power on that last one! (g) Click to expand...

Cam, How does Camaraderie behave in heavy weather, and what's her tankage?  

Oh...her tankage is 100 fuel and 200 water. As to heavy weather, she just lays over a bit and cuts through the waves with an easy motion and no pounding...I've never had a boat anything like her at sea which is why we felt so safe on her. It would really take tropical storm type winds for me to start to get nervous on her...and a lot more for that nervousness to be justified! She is good to windward and on all points of sail thanks to Mr. Perry, and her only real weakness is that she really needs a bit of wind to get going. If I weren't selling her I probably would have bought an Asymmetric for lighter conditions (or a mizzen stay sail if I wanted to be a bit saltier!)  

Are there any big problems with Hans Christians? I don't see them on the list here, but I would put them in as my vote--so far, that is what Mr. E and I are leaning towards when we get the "big boat" (in the far off future)...  

DJ...with several different build locations and variable quality at times, HC has not been the most stable builder around but HC's CAN be great bluewater boats and belong on the list but you have to be careful on survey and love to varnish!  

On the Tiawanese boats, watch the teak decks... typically fastened right through the top layer of glass. It's a monster headache, later. Tankange can be poor. The one I have had a stainless tank welded with ordinary welding rods... can you imagine a mistake of that stupidity??? I had to see it as a reality.... it was with mine. I've got one, a Union 36, and still like it, now 15 years on (30 years old). It really can cope with the big seas, and they are very pretty indeed. Beware of short-cuts they make though. Some of them are shocking.  

The Custom 46 is a good boat ... http://www.customyachtbuilder.com/index2.html Cabots are as well... http://www.yachtsmiths.com/cabot38ph.htm  

Can you find used Amels for around $500K? I was on a new one two years ago in Miami, and if I just HAD to spend a cool million on a new boat, I'd pick the Amel 54.  

• ?            
• 175.9K members

Top Contributors this Month

BLUEWATER 60

Designer: Chris Hood/Stephen P. McNally

LOA:               60’           18.29 m

LWL:               53’           16.15 m

Beam:             17’3”        5.28 m

Water:             400 g       1514 l

Fuel:                350 g      1325 l

Grey/Black Water:            

                    230 g           870.6 l

Sail Area:  

              934 sq ft      179.68 sq m

Auxilliary:           

                  140\HP          104.4kW

Mast Above Water:  

                           86’ 9”     26.44 m

DRAFT AND DISPLACEMENT OPTIONS

Draft:                     8’ 0”                  2.45 m    

Displacement:      76,125 lbs (light)      34,530kg

KEEL/CENTERBOARD

Draft (Board Up)      6’0”                   1.83 m

Draft (Board Down) 13’ 0”                 3.98 m

Displacement           83,555 lbs      37,900 kg

• Viking Yachts Celebrates 60 Years of Success

Jul 20, 2024 | Magazine , Viking Yachts | 0 comments

Generous amounts of ingenuity, determination, courtesy, and respect are deeply woven into the winning composition of the Healey family and Viking Yachts . These, and many other, qualities have enabled Viking to dominate the U.S. boat building industry over the last six decades. “Early on, my father Bill drove home the point that Viking was about building a better boat every day and Uncle Bob insisted that, we like the view from the top of the mountain and plan to stay there. Almost six decades later the Co-founders’ statements are stronger than ever,” explains Pat Healey, President and CEO of Viking Yachts.

Matching Philosophies

Waterfront Office Locations

• Baltimore 410.342.6600
• Annapolis 443.716.7965
• Ocean City 410.390.3043
• Hampton 757.723.0793
• Virginia Beach 757.937.2570

North Carolina

• Wanchese 252.216.2960
• Beaufort 252.728.2645
• Morehead City 252.728.2645
• Wilmington 910.256.6643
• South FL 561.845.0606