1988 Kelsall Manannan 78 Custom

A 78-foot custom bluewater catamaran designed by Derek Kelsall and built in 1988 on the Isle of Man using foam-core composite construction. Twin 330-horsepower Sabre Ford diesel engines drive MaxProp feathering propellers, delivering a cruising speed of 11 knots and maximum speed of 16 knots. The catamaran's wide 35-foot beam and proven offshore performance include an impressive finish at the 1990 Atlantic Rally for Cruisers, completing the transatlantic passage nearly two days ahead of competitors.

The boat accommodates five cabins with five ensuite heads and showers. Layout is galley-down, ideal for both private cruising and charter operations. Massive tankage supports extended ocean voyages: 1,600 gallons of diesel fuel, 800 gallons of fresh water, and 200 gallons of blackwater capacity. Dual Northern Lights generators (8kW and 30kW) provide redundant power. A chilled-water air conditioning system with two compressors and 12 air handlers delivers multi-zone climate control throughout.

Recent refits from 2023 through 2026 include new Alexseal hull paint in Matterhorn White, CopperCoat bottom paint, and completely renewed standing rigging and staysail stays. New hydraulic furling systems, updated electrical and NMEA 2000 networks, modern Raymarine and Furuno navigation electronics, and 460-amp-hour 12V and four 230-amp-hour 24V LiFePO4 battery banks support extended cruising. New Stamoid helm enclosure with Strataglass windows, freshwater pressure pump, water maker membranes, and rebuilt engine turbocharger complete recent mechanical updates. Daggerboard service is recommended.

The catamaran includes a 14-foot Zodiac Pro Bayrunner 420 RIB with 50-horsepower Tohatsu outboard, paddleboards, kayaks, extensive spares, and manuals. Comprehensive safety gear includes a Switlik six-person life raft, EPIRB, fire extinguishers, and electronic flares.