1989 Bluewater Yachts Custom Cruiser 55

This 55-foot Bluewater Yachts Custom Cruiser was built in 1989 and has spent its operational life in fresh water, first on Lake Minnetonka and since 2017 on Lakes Monona and Mendota. The boat is powered by twin Detroit 8.2L V-8 diesel engines producing 340 horsepower each; the port engine was replaced, while the starboard remains original. At 1,900 RPM the yacht cruises at 6 knots while consuming approximately 2 gallons per hour.

The main deck layout centers on entertaining and catering, with a wet bar featuring an ice well and speed rails, a commercial pizza oven, three True commercial refrigerators, and a spacious serving area with bench seating and tables. Two enclosed heads with Raritan electric flush toilets serve the forward area, and a steering station is positioned on the main deck. The upper deck provides open seating beneath a bimini top with side curtains and includes a second helm station.

In 2024, a Victron Energy battery and inverter system was installed to supply 120-volt AC power throughout the yacht for appliances, lighting, and the pizza oven; a typical three-hour cruise consumes about 10 percent of battery capacity. Digital gauges were also added at the upper helm that year. The boat carries a Galley Maid windlass that was recently rebuilt, along with anchor and rode. Electronics include a Jensen stereo with custom PA and iPad playback capability, Uniden VHF radio, and Datamarine depth sounder.

Safety equipment includes approximately 45 adult and 10 child personal flotation devices, portable fire extinguishers, and automatic Fireboy systems in each engine room and the battery compartment. The boat has a pressure water system, grey water tank, and holding tank. Included are shore power cable, keel blocking, jack stands, fenders, winter cover framework, lines, catering equipment, and related spare parts.