1979 Island Trader 37
$42,500
Boat in North Hero, VT 05474 US
37
1 Engine (Yanmar)
37 feet
Diesel
Fiberglass/Reinforced
Island Trader 37 Ketch
- Full keel heavy displacement cruiser by William Garden
- Teak Island Trader interior
- TRUE STORY received a major refit beginning in '99/00
- New Aluminum Main and Mizzen masts
- New SS Standing rigging.
- New Cabin and cockpit cushions
- Updated B & G Navigation suite
Please call ahead to see
V berth in private forward cabin sleeps 2. Mid cabin sleeps 3, 2 on the convertible dinette, and one on starboard settee.
- 6'6" Headroom
- stereo
Galley
- Force 10 3 burner stove with oven
- sink
- icebox with seafrost cold plate
- Adler Barber cold machine
- hot and cold pressure water system
Head
- vanity and sink
- hot and cold pressure water system
- privacy door
- manual head with deck pump out system
- 12v DC system
- (1) 12v DC engine start battery
- (2) 6v DC Interstate L-16L 380 amp hour batteries
- Battery parallel switch
- Heart Freedom 1500w - 75a battery charger
- 110v AC system
- (1) 30 amp 50' shore power cord
- hand held searchlight
- (4) LED spreader lights
- Singlemate LED Tricolor, Nav / Anchor light with photo diode
- 210w solar panel (2021)
- Wheel steering 32" Lewmar wheel
- Emergency tiller
- (3) fire extinguishers
- Fuel filter
- Manual bilge pump
- (2) automatic bilge pumps
- Autopilot w/B & G Triton 2 controller, T2 Ploto Ram, and Simrad Nav3 core pack
- Raytheon ST 60 depth
- Ritchie binnacle mount compass
- Raytheon ST 60 knotmeter
- Standard Horizon GX21 VHF radio w/AIS and power mic at helm
- Nautical hand held VHF radio
- B & G Zeus 9" GPS multi-function touchscreen
- B & G HALO20 radar
- Windex
- CQR 45# with 160' chain
- Fortress FX23 with 100' chain and 100' rode
- Electric windlass with foot controls
- (6) Fenders
- (6) Docklines
- (4) Lifejackets
- Life ring with 100' throw line
- Swim ladder
- Dodger
- Bimini Top
- (11) Brass ports, (10) with rain covers, (5) opening
- Butterfly hatch, V Berth hatch w/screens and covers
Aluminum Main and Mizzen masts, both step on deck, Both replaced '99/20, New standing rigging (replaced '99/20)
- Quantum Mainsail
- Quantum Mizzen
- 120% Genoa
- Main and Mizzen both full battens with Doyle stack pack system and lazy jacks
- Schaefer 2100 roller furling
- SS10 Boom vang
Winches
- (2) Anderson 40ST 2 speed primaries
- Barlow 23 2 speed (Main)
- Lewmar 6 (Mizzen)
- Lewmar 6 (Roller furling)
- (2) SS 16
- Deck; glued teak decks, renovated ('99/20) original decks removed, decks glassed as necessary and new teak decks installed
- Aluminum masts and booms, are painted with Imron finish
- Non-skid, tan
- Bottom Paint, Micron CSC
- New bronze thru hulls
- Hull topsides, repainted (2012)
- Custom propane locker w/(2) 10lb tanks and solenoid
- All new sail slugs/head/clews, jib sheets and mizzen halyard (2020)
- All new B & G Electronics suite ('20/21)
Engine hours are as of the date of the original listing and are a representation of what the listing broker is told by the owner and/or actual reading of the engine hour meters. The broker cannot guarantee the true hours. It is the responsibility of the purchaser and/or his agent to verify engine hours, warranties implied or otherwise and major overhauls as well as all other representations noted on the listing brochure.
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 |
|---|---|---|
| 9/3/25 | Price decreased | $42,500(-13.3%) |
| 5/30/25 | Initial price | $49,000 |
Overview from around the web 1979 Island Trader 37
Customers praise the 1979 Island Trader 37 for its sturdy construction and spacious interior, making it an excellent choice for comfortable cruising and liveaboard life
Many highlight its traditional design combined with practical features, noting that it handles well in various sea conditions. Owners appreciate the ample storage and well-thought-out layout, which enhances long-term voyaging. Overall, the Island Trader 37 is celebrated for its reliability, classic charm, and solid performance on the water.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 1979 Island Trader 37 is a classic cruising sailboat known for its sturdy construction and comfortable accommodations. Here are some of the pros and cons associated with this model:
Pros
Solid Build Quality: The Island Trader 37 features a robust fiberglass hull and a heavy displacement, contributing to its reputation for durability and seaworthiness.
Spacious Interior: Designed for cruising, it offers ample living space below deck, including comfortable sleeping quarters, a functional galley, and a roomy salon.
Good Offshore Capability: Its design and weight make it capable of handling offshore conditions, appealing to sailors interested in extended voyages.
Traditional Aesthetics: Classic lines and a traditional sail plan give it a timeless appeal that many sailors appreciate.
Easy to Handle: The sail plan and rigging are straightforward, making it manageable for short-handed crews or families.
Cons
Heavier Displacement: While contributing to stability, the heavier weight can make the boat slower compared to lighter, more modern designs.
Older Systems: Being a 1979 model, some of the onboard systems, including electrical and plumbing, may require updates or maintenance.
Limited Performance: The hull design favors comfort and safety over speed, so it's not ideal for racing or high-performance sailing.
Maintenance Needs: Older boats like the Island Trader 37 often demand more upkeep, especially regarding wood trim and rigging.
Interior Layout: While spacious, the interior design may feel dated compared to contemporary yachts, and customization might be needed to suit modern tastes.
Made For
The 1979 Island Trader 37 is ideal for sailors and cruisers seeking a sturdy and spacious vessel designed for comfortable extended voyages. Its robust construction and ample living space make it well-suited for families, couples, or adventurous individuals looking to explore coastal waters or embark on offshore passages with confidence.
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Other Information about Bruce Hill Yacht Sales
We are a Vermont based yacht brokerage located at Shelburne Shipyard established in 1973 and corporate members of YBAA. Now in our 46th year of business we represent a wide range of both sail and power boats. Let our knowledge and expertise assist you in buying or selling your sail or power boat.
Contact Bruce Hill Yacht Sales
4520 Harbor Rd., Shelburne, VT, 05482














































