NORTHWIND Yacht for Sale

Length: 130' (39.62m)
Builder: Manitowoc Shipbilding Corp
Build: 1930/1985

Guests: 10
Cabins: 5
Crew: 5
Asking Price: Request

1930/1985 Manitowoc Shipbilding Corp 130ft

Step aboard NORTHWIND, a legendary 130’ (39.62m) motor yacht built in 1930 by the esteemed Manitowoc Shipbuilding Co. With a rich history spanning nearly a century, NORTHWIND is a masterpiece of classic yacht design, initially envisioned by Cox & Stevens, one of the most respected naval architecture firms of its time. This steel-hulled, full-displacement yacht offers a stunning blend of vintage craftsmanship and modern luxury, meticulously maintained and refitted between 2017 and 2022 to meet today’s yachting standards. She has a gross tonnage of 195 GT and is constructed to Lloyd’s Register technical standards, ensuring durability and seaworthiness for extended cruising.

NORTHWIND is not just a vessel but a floating piece of history. Initially launched in 1930, she hosted notable figures of her era, was owned by His Majesty’s Government during World War II, and was officially restored to the U.S. Registry on October 16, 1988, by a Special Act of the United States. This rich heritage makes her an extraordinary find for collectors and enthusiasts of classic yachts.

Her most recent refits and upgrades between 2017 and 2022 include modernized systems while preserving her classic appeal, upgraded navigation, electrical and mechanical systems, and enhanced luxury amenities for a seamless onboard experience.

Powered by twin Paxman 12-cylinder diesel engines producing 360 HP each, NORTHWIND reaches a top speed of 12 knots and cruises comfortably at 10 knots. With an impressive 5,812-gallon fuel capacity, she boasts a transatlantic range of 3,000 nautical miles, making her ideal for long-distance voyages and global exploration.

NORTHWIND boasts five elegantly appointed staterooms, accommodating up to 10 guests in refined comfort. She also carries a dedicated crew of ten, ensuring seamless service and an authentic luxury experience. The interior exudes classic nautical charm with warm wood paneling, timeless furnishings, and an inviting ambiance that transports you to the golden age of yachting.

NORTHWIND is U.S.-flagged and available for discerning buyers seeking a vessel with unparalleled character, timeless design, and proven oceangoing capability. This is a rare opportunity to acquire one of the finest classic yachts of the 20th century, perfect for long voyages, private retreats, or as an investment in nautical heritage.

Highlights

American flagged
95-year-old pedigree history ownership
Hosted famous names of the era
Restored on October 16, 1988, US Registry by Special Act of United States
His Majesty's Government gained ownership during World War II
Recent refits and reconditioning from 2017 to 2022
Ideal for nostalgic collector of marine nautical history

In The News

Specifications

Builder	Manitowoc Shipbilding Corp
Model	Custom
Length (LOA)	130' (39.62m)
Year	1930
Year Refit	1985
Gross Tonn.	195
Draft	8' 7" (2.59m)
Beam	22' 2" (6.74m)
Location	San Diego, United States

Accommodations

Staterooms	5
Sleeps	10

Crew Sleeps	5

Dimensions & Capacity

LOA	130' (39.62m)
LWL	113' (34.53m)
Min Draft	8' (2.44m)
Max Draft	8' 7" (2.59m)
Fuel Tank	4,800 g (22,000 L)
Fresh Water	4,000 g (16,000 L)
Gross Tonn.	195

Construction

Hull Material	Steel
Hull Config	Displacement
Ext. Designer	Cox & Stevens
Max Speed	12 Knots
Cruising Speed	10 Knots

Central Agent

Rolf Smith

View Profile +1 954 600 6647

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Full Details

About Northwind

Built in 1930 by the Manitowoc Shipbuilding Corporation, the 130ft (39.6m) NORTHWIND is an antique and classic Fantail Pilothouse motor yacht with a unique and prestigious heritage. Designed by Cox & Stevens, this steel-hulled vessel has had an extraordinary life.

Requisitioned for use during World War II, NORTHWIND patrolled the River Thames in London, protecting the Houses of Parliament. She has hosted Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II onboard and Sir Winston Churchill, and in 1946 she commenced a five year-round-the-world cruise that was part of an intelligence gathering mission led by MI6. It was aboard NORTHWIND in 1961 that former First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy first met Aristotle Onassis. In later years, NORTHWIND was the lead vessel in efforts to clean up the Exxon Valdez oil spill and, most recently, played a starring role in the 2024 Netflix series ‘Griselda’.

This one-of-a-kind, custom-built yacht is a wonderful platform for entertaining family and friends. The large top deck has served many a soiree, and her admirable lines are arguably echoed in the famous CHRISTINA O. Her classic aesthetic is a visual enhancement to any port or harbor.

NORTHWIND has undergone various restorative works between 2017 and 2024. Her pretty canoe stern was retained and she’s in ready-to-sail condition. NORTHWIND’s original interior remains intact, and the yacht has enormous refit potential – indeed, she could be brought back to full former glory with an interior sympathetic to her antique nature. At present, the traditional interior style features wood paneling and original wood flooring. NORTHWIND is an exceptional vessel with the finest turnings, fittings, and styles. Exquisite in every detail throughout.

There’s accommodation aboard NORTHWIND for 10 guests in five cabins. All cabins are located on the lower deck and further accommodation is provided for a crew of 10.

NORTHWIND achieves a 12-knot top speed and cruises at 10 knots with a trans-Atlantic range of 3000nm.