1966 Vanguard Bermudian Sloop | 55ft

1966 Vanguard Bermudian Sloop – Rare STEEL Classic, Exquisitely Restored

Sometimes life changes course. The owner has invested deeply in this vessel—financially and personally—but is now unable to continue the journey. Their loss becomes an incredible opportunity for the next owner, offered at A FRACTION of the extensive investment that has been made in the vessel.

A truly exceptional offering, this 1966 Vanguard Bermudian Sloop, STEALAWAY, represents the pinnacle of mid-century yacht design—crafted in steel, restored to an elevated standard, and maintained with a curator’s eye for authenticity. Extremely few examples of these iconic steel sloops remain, and even fewer have been preserved and modernized to this degree. She is a 40-ton, ocean-capable masterpiece blending enduring strength, timeless elegance, and the quiet confidence of a yacht built to cross oceans.

A Vessel of Rarity & Refinement

Originally constructed to a standard that rivaled custom yards of the era, this Vanguard showcases the unmistakable hallmarks of a classic European cruiser: sweeping sheer line, purposeful overhangs, a deep and secure cockpit, and a hull form that inspires trust in any sea. The fully welded steel hull—a rarity even in the 1960s—provides an unmatched sense of security, stability, and long-term structural integrity that few fiberglass vessels can replicate.

Construction & Design:

• Builder: Vanguard (UK/Europe, limited production)

• Year: 1966

• Type: Bermudian Sloop

• Hull Material: Fully welded marine-grade steel

• Displacement: ~40 tons (approx.)

• Rudder & Keel: Full-keel, long-tracking, extremely stable in all conditions

• Design Characteristics:

  • Long overhangs and graceful sheer

  • Deep forefoot for excellent tracking in heavy seas

  • Heavy-duty rig foundation and deck structure typical of mid-century ocean cruisers

Her steel hull provides unmatched strength and longevity compared to fiberglass or wood vessels of the same era. This boat was built for offshore passages—ready to cross oceans and withstand conditions that would challenge lighter modern yachts.

Restoration & Condition:

This Vanguard has undergone a comprehensive restoration, bringing her to a condition worthy of a top-tier listing. Work completed includes :

• Full hull inspection and refinishing

• Fresh coatings system (interior & exterior steel protection)

• Refurbished or replaced standing and running rigging

• Updated electrical systems and panels

• Modernized plumbing

• Interior refresh with preserved classic teak joinery

• Recent bottom job with anti-fouling applied

• Ford Lehman diesel engine installed in 2014 only used once from the Bahamas to Florida.

• Deck hardware restored or upgraded to marine-grade stainless

The restoration retains the classic character of the yacht while improving safety, reliability, and ease of maintenance.

Interior:

Below deck, the vessel exudes the charm of a classic European ocean cruiser:

• Warm solid wood joinery, hand-finished

• Generous saloon with settees and dining table

• Forward stateroom with ample storage

• Galley with updated appliances and secure storage 

• Stove: Force 10 three burner electric 

• Refrigeration: Top loading Adler Barbour cold plate

• Microwave 

• Washing Machine: Splendid 2000S

• Double basin SS sink 

• Watermaker

• Navigation station

• Head compartments restored with new fixtures

• Multiple opening ports and hatches for ventilation

Her interior layout is comfortable for passage-making and large enough for extended living aboard.

Electronics:

• Uniden VHF
• Danforth & Ritchie compass 
• Garmin Auto pilot 
• Raymarine ST 40 speed indicator
• Garmin GPS

Rig & Sail Plan:

• Bermudian sloop rig—simple, strong, and easy to handle offshore

• Heavy-duty mast and boom

• Roller-furling headsail 

This sail plan is efficient and reliable, especially for long passages where balance and stability matter.

Mechanical:

• Ford Lehman Diesel engine installed 2014 and used only from the Bahamas to Florida

• Clean, well-maintained engine room

• Updated fuel lines, filters, and electrical

• Strong charging system for extended anchoring

Exterior & Deck:

• Solid steel decks with modern coatings

• Stainless stanchions, rails, and lifelines

• Large cockpit with secure seating

• Offshore-ready windlass anchor system

• Storage lockers and lazarette space

Overall

This 1966 Vanguard Bermudian Sloop is not just a sailboat—it’s a piece of maritime history, preserved and modernized for today’s sailor. With her rare steel construction, heavy-displacement hull, and thorough restoration, she stands apart from typical production cruisers and offers the safety, romance, and capability of a true Bluewater classic.

STEALAWAY is ready for her next owner—whether that means circumnavigation, coastal cruising, or simply enjoying a unique and beautifully restored classic yacht. 

Trailer in photo and everything inside is included in the sale. Sails, mattresses, cushions and more are all in storage.