1981 Island Trader 46
$159,000
Boat in North East, MD 21901 US
46
1 Engine (Ford Lehman)
46 feet
Diesel
Fiberglass/Reinforced
Check out the 3D Immersive tour!
Classic styling of this Floyd Ayers' designed Masthead Ketch is the perfect transition from a sailboat to a trawler. This comfortable classic is ready for new adventures! The vessel's teak deck was removed and a new core deck installed and transom rebuilt during major refit in 2017. Current owners have cruised the Florida coast and the ICW comfortably on Whiskey River. Her heritage, style, spaciousness, and comfort are unsurpassed.
All exterior brightwork has been taken down to bare wood and refinished with a minimum of 12 coats of Epiphanes High Gloss Varnish. The bowsprit was completely rebuilt. Bottom cleaned and 2 coats of Interlux Micron CSC applied. Upgraded mechanical and electrical systems make her cruise ready. The master suite and extensive storage make Whiskey River the ideal liveaboard.
Highlights Include:
- Ford Lehman 120hp, 6-Cylinder with 4600 hours ~ overhaul @ 3250 hours in 2017
- 2 coats of Interlux Micron CSC - 2025
- Bronze 3-blade Prop, serviced in 2024
- Stuffing Box Serviced ~ 2024
- Beta Marine 10kW Genset with 157 hours ~ 2017
- Decks and Transom Rebuilt ~ 2017
- Standing Rigging & Chainplates ~ 2017
- Running Rigging ~ 2017
- Spartite Mast Wedging and Mast Boots ~ 2023
- Bowsprit Rebuilt ~ 2022
- Bow Thruster ~ 2017, Inspected in 2022
- Galley Maid Electric Windlass
- Brightwork - Maintained with Epifanes High Gloss ~ 2022
- Bottom of Hull - Down to FRP in 2017 with Barrier/Paint 2 coats Interlux Micron CSC ~ 2022
- Hydraulic Steering Cylinder Rebuilt ~ 2022
- AC wiring replaced ~ 2017
- Bonding Throughout the Hull ~ 2022
- ProNautic 40amp Charger ~ 2023
- Raymarine Axiom+ Chart Plotter ~ 2022
- Quantum 2 Doppler Radar ~ 2022
- Fuel, Water & Sanitary Tanks Replaced ~ 2017
- A/C-Heat Reverse Cycle Mermaid 12k btu (Qty:2) - 2017
- Watermaker (unused) ~ 2017
- Domestic Water Pump ~ 2022
- Furrion Gas 3-Burner Stove ~ 2022
- Norcold Refrigerator ~ 2017
- Washing Machine ~ 2017
- Custom Wood Deck Boxes ~ 2022
- Curtains & Cushion Covers ~ 2022
- Sunbrella Canvas - Excellent Condition
Marcy Lynn
630-670-2477
Marcy@suncruising.com
Sunshine Cruising Yachts
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.
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 2/20/26 | Initial price | $159,000 |
Overview from around the web 1981 Island Trader 46
The 1981 Island Trader 46 has garnered a reputation for its sturdiness and classic design among sailing enthusiasts
Many customers appreciate the vessel's solid construction, often praising its ability to handle rough seas with confidence. Owners frequently highlight the spacious interior layout, which offers ample living space and comfortable accommodations for extended cruising. The woodwork and traditional aesthetics are commonly admired, giving the boat a warm and inviting atmosphere. Sail performance is another point of praise, with sailors noting its good handling characteristics and responsiveness. The Island Trader 46 is recognized for its efficient sailing capabilities, making it suitable for both leisurely coastal cruising and longer passages. Overall, feedback from customers reflects a fondness for the blend of comfort, performance, and timeless style that the 1981 Island Trader 46 offers, making it a cherished choice among those looking for a classic cruising yacht.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 1981 Island Trader 46 is a classic cruising sailboat with a dedicated following among sailing enthusiasts. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of this vessel:
Pros
Sturdy Construction: Built with a solid fiberglass hull, the Island Trader 46 is known for its structural integrity and durability, making it suitable for long-distance cruising.
Spacious Interior: The layout features generous living space, including a large salon, well-equipped galley, and multiple cabins, providing comfort for family or guests.
Exceptional Storage: Ample storage options throughout the boat make it ideal for extended voyages, allowing sailors to bring along all the necessary provisions and gear.
Great Performance: The design is optimized for performance under sail, with a balanced rig that allows for good handling in a variety of wind conditions.
Classic Aesthetics: The traditional design elements and warm wood finishes create an inviting and classic look, appealing to sailors who appreciate timeless craftsmanship.
Proven Track Record: The Island Trader brand has a reputation for reliability and performance, which can provide confidence to potential buyers.
Cons
Age Considerations: Being from 1981, some components may require updating or refurbishing, which can involve additional costs and maintenance.
Limited Modern Amenities: Compared to newer models, the Island Trader 46 may lack some of the modern conveniences and technologies that newer vessels offer, which some sailors may find desirable.
Heavy Weight: While the weight provides stability, it can make the boat less responsive in lighter winds, potentially affecting performance for more competitive sailors.
Draft: With a deeper draft, the boat may not be suitable for shallow waters, limiting access to certain cruising grounds.
Maneuverability: The size and weight of the vessel can make maneuvering in tight spaces more challenging, especially for less experienced sailors.
Made For
The 1981 Island Trader 46 is designed for adventurous sailors and cruising enthusiasts who seek both comfort and performance on the open water. With its classic design and robust build, this vessel is perfect for seasoned mariners looking for a capable long-range cruiser, as well as those seeking a comfortable liveaboard option. Families and couples who enjoy extended voyages will appreciate the spacious interior, featuring multiple cabins and a well-equipped galley. The Island Trader 46 is also suited for those who love entertaining, offering ample deck space for relaxing and socializing while sailing. Additionally, the design is ideal for those who appreciate a blend of traditional craftsmanship and seaworthy characteristics, making it a great choice for exploration and discovery on both coastal and offshore passages. Whether you're planning weekend getaways or longer adventures, the Island Trader 46 is a versatile option for a wide range of sailing lifestyles.
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Contact Sunshine Cruising Yachts about 1981 Island Trader 46
983 Ervin Street, Saint Augustine, FL, 32084







































