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1969 Grand Banks Classic 42
CAD139,000
1969 Grand Banks Classic 42 boat for sale
Huck Finn
A 1969 Grand Banks 42 Classic, not just a boat, but one of the most respected and enduring trawler designs ever built. The Grand Banks 42 earned its reputation the hard way. By going places, by doing it safely, and by doing it consistently for decades. It is a design that has stood the test of time without needing to be reinvented.
HUCK FINN represents that legacy exactly as it should.
Boathouse kept for the majority of its life and exceptionally well cared for by its current owners, this is a rare example of a wood hull Grand Banks that presents with confidence, not compromise. This is not a project, but a vessel that reflects long term ownership, thoughtful upgrades, and a clear understanding of what it takes to properly maintain a classic cruising yacht.
Designed by Kenneth Smith and built by American Marine, the Grand Banks 42 is widely regarded as a benchmark in trawler yacht design. A semi displacement hull with a full keel delivers stability and predictable handling, while wide walkable decks and excellent visibility make it a true cruising platform. It is a boat built to be used.
HUCK FINN comes from the original era of Grand Banks construction, with carvel planked Honduras mahogany, Yacal framing, and hand finished teak throughout. Properly maintained examples like this are becoming increasingly rare. Detailed maintenance logs show over $2 million CAD invested into the vessel over its lifetime, reflecting a level of care and commitment seldom seen.
The name fits. Like Huckleberry Finn, this is a boat built for freedom and exploration. Honest, capable, and ready to go cruising.
Specifications
propulsion
Engine #1
Engine #2
Major Upgrades & Investment
- Documented lifetime maintenance and upgrades exceed $2M CAD
- Fuel system completely replaced (2011)
- Sanitation system upgraded (2011)
- Exhaust system replaced (2011)
- All thru-hulls replaced with Marelon (2014)
- Autopilot system installed (2014)
- Windlass rebuilt (2015)
- Engine mounts replaced (2016)
- Modern Garmin electronics (2021)
- Bottom stripped, recaulked, and repainted (2023)
Vessel Layout
Forward Stateroom
- V-berth with overhead hatch
- Hanging locker
Forward Head
- Enclosed with shower
- VacuFlush toilet
Salon
- Bright and open with classic teak interior
- Lower helm to starboard
- L-shaped settee with table
- Additional seating to port
- Direct access to side deck
Galley
- Forward port
- Force 10 propane stove
- Microwave, refrigeration, dishwasher
Aft Cabin
- Two berths
- Excellent storage
- Ensuite head with tub/shower and VacuFlush toilet
Aft Deck
- Covered and protected
- Easy access to side decks
Flybridge
- Teak ladder access
- Clean layout with excellent visibility
Hull & Construction
- Honduras mahogany planking
- Yacal wood frames
- Teak decks over plywood
- Bronze rudders and hardware
- Silicone bronze fastenings
Survey findings: No bad wood detected during sounding. Structure presents in very good condition and shows excellent cosmetic care.
Mechanical & Propulsion
- Twin Ford Lehman 2703E diesel engines
- 120 HP each
- 2841 Hours each
- Borg Warner Velvet Drive transmissions
- Northern Lights Lugger 6kW – Approx. 1,150 hours
- Automatic Fire Suppression System
Key highlights:
- Clean, well-maintained engine room
- No oil leaks observed
- Heat exchanger replaced (2022)
- Dripless shaft seals (2014)
- Engine mounts replaced and aligned (2016)
Electrical Systems
AC
- 120V system
- SmartPlug upgrade (2022)
- Updated breaker panel
- Xantrex Freedom inverter/charger
DC
- Dual battery banks
- Properly maintained and secured
Navigation & Electronics
- Garmin Echomap Ultra 12″ (2021)
- Standard Horizon VHF with AIS & GPS
- ComNav autopilot (2014)
- Furuno radar
- Depth sounder with flybridge repeater
Domestic & Comfort Systems
- Espar diesel heating system
- Force 10 propane stove
- Microwave
- Refrigeration
- Dishwasher
- Hot water system
- Watermaker
Comfortable for extended cruising or full-time use.
Ground Tackle
- 25kg Rocna anchor
- 300+ ft chain rode
- Electric windlass (rebuilt)
- Secondary Fortress anchor
Tender & Equipment
- AB 10’6” RIB
- Honda 20HP outboard
- 8’ Alder Bay-built wooden pram
