Presented by
Gulf Coast Team
1996 Roberts 53' (16.15 m) Custom Pilothouse
Richmond, British Columbia, Canada
Viking Mistress
This 1996 53’ Custom Bruce Roberts Pilothouse Cutter is a rare find in the offshore cruising world. Built with lightweight, corrosion-resistant aluminum, this yacht offers exceptional performance and durability, making it a standout choice for long-range cruisers. Constructed in Pender Harbor under
Flag of Registry: Canada
Port of Registry: can
- Pilothouse
- Sail
- Used
- Diesel
- Aluminum Hull
- HIN/IMO: rob34567n696
Description
53 Custom Roberts 53-1996
'One of a Kind'
Pilothouse Cruiser
This 1996 53’ Custom Bruce Roberts Pilothouse Cutter is a rare find in the offshore cruising world. Built with lightweight, corrosion-resistant aluminum, this yacht offers exceptional performance and durability, making it a standout choice for long-range cruisers. Constructed in Pender Harbor under the supervision of the current owner — a marine industry professional — she’s designed for bluewater exploration and built to last.
Having completed successful voyages to Alaska and Hawaii, this yacht is a proven bluewater performer. After a $150,000 refit in 2020, she’s in top condition and ready to take on her next adventure.
Major Upgrades & Features:
- $150,000 refit completed in 2020, including:
- Topside LP paint by FilCan Yachts
- Bottom stripped to bare aluminum, sealed with 7 layers of epoxy barrier coat, and new bottom paint
- Engine rebuilt by KNW Marine – approx. 515 hours since
- New electronics (2024)
- Furuno Chartplotter TZT16F-2024
- Furuno Radar DRS4DNXT-2024
- New shaft seal (2021)
- New running rigging (2020)
- Max-Prop feathering propeller (2008 upgrade)
- Hydronic diesel heating system – quiet and efficient heat for cold-weather cruising
- Washer/dryer combo unit – ideal for liveaboard or long-range use
- 75 lb CQR anchor with 400 feet of 3/8” high-test chain – reliable for secure anchoring
- Watermaker – fresh water production for extended cruising
- 1,650L fuel capacity – impressive range for long-distance passages
- 300-gallon water capacity – ample fresh water for extended cruising and liveaboard use
- 9kW genset – reliable power for off-grid living and cruising
- Main engine heat exchanger serviced in 2025 – ensuring optimal engine performance
⛵ Sailing & Construction:
- Cutter rig with roller furling on both headsails – perfect for offshore versatility
- Roller furling main
- Cruising spinnaker
- Rare aluminum hull – corrosion-resistant, lightweight, and perfect for long-distance cruising- Foam insulated
- Pilothouse helm station with 360° visibility and weather protection
- Spacious, custom interior designed for comfort on long passages
- Built with expert craftsmanship under the supervision of a marine industry professional
Performance & Range:
- 7 knots cruising speed at 1,100–1,200 rpm, offering a 1,500 nautical mile range
- 8 knots cruising speed at 1,400 rpm, offering a 1,000 nautical mile range
This yacht combines bluewater capability, self-sufficiency, and comfort in a way few vessels can. With 1,650L fuel capacity, 300 gallons of water, a 9kW genset, and a well-maintained engine, she is ready for long-range passages, extended cruising, or full-time liveaboard life.
Contact Listing Agents at Pacific Coast Yacht Sales
Philip Cragg 604 708 1980
Christie Bocking 604 317 3847
Murray Yacht Sales is pleased to assist you in the purchase of this vessel. This boat is centrally listed by Allied/Pacific Coast Yachts Group. It is offered as a convenience by this broker/dealer to its clients and is not intended to convey direct representation of a particular vessel
Specifications
HIN/IMO: rob34567n696
In Stock: Yes
LOA: 53' (16.15 Meters)
Type: Sail- Used
Year: 1996
Fuel Type: Diesel
Hull Material: Aluminum
Builder: Belavance Aluminum Co.
Photos click to view all
Full Details
GENERAL CONSTUCTION
This vessel was crafted by one of the most respected aluminum boat builders on the coast (Belavance Aluminum Co). Originally intended for his personal use, the builder sold it to the current owner before the hull was completed. As a result, the construction clearly reflects the highest standards of craftsmanship.
She is an all-welded aluminum auxiliary cutter-rigged motorsailer, featuring a single mast, boom, and jib. The hull design includes a raked bow and a double hard-chined structure, transitioning to a rounded, forward-raked stern with integrated two-step transom access.
The vessel features a raised cockpit amidships with a central steering pedestal, flanked by bench seats that double as storage lockers. Forward access through a hatch leads into the raised pilothouse. From the forward section of the pilothouse, stairs descend into a spacious galley and mess area. Forward of this is a head with a shower and a roomy cabin in the forepeak. A companionway to starboard, just aft of the galley, leads to the master stateroom and an additional head.
The hull is robustly built with 3/8" cut frames and 1/4" plating of 5086 marine-grade aluminum. Both the hull and the undersides of the decks are insulated with urethane spray foam for superior thermal and acoustic protection.
The engine compartment is enclosed with watertight bulkheads fore and aft, and a sealed door provides access from the master cabin. A hinged hatch in the pilothouse floor allows for convenient access to the engine room.
The mast is stepped onto a 3/4" aluminum plate, welded securely to a 6" x 2" x 1/2" thick channel frame.
Exterior decks and the trunk cabin are finished with teak overlay planking, while the pilothouse deck is treated with non-skid Awlgrip paint. Side deck rail caps are crafted from 3" x 3/4" teak. The exterior hull is coated with durable Awlgrip epoxy paint.
All windows and hatches are framed in aluminum for strength and durability.
The interior showcases a refined finish of hard-coated veneer and solid Honduras mahogany, with teak and holly strip plank flooring secured to yellow cedar frames, which are bolted to the aluminum structure. The overheads are lined with smooth white hardboard, accented with mahogany battens for a classic maritime touch.
DECKHOUSE AND ACCOMODATIONS
The raised pilothouse is constructed from aluminum plate, with access provided through a stainless steel-framed 29" x 22" hatch. This hatch features a stainless steel-framed top slider, covered with Lexan, and an aluminum-framed Lexan door that drops down to become flush with the floor when opened.
The cabin is equipped with three large aluminum-framed windows on each side, one of which is a sliding window. Additionally, there are three large forward-facing windows that provide ample natural light. On the starboard side, there is a chart table and a day bunk, with an impressive electrical distribution panel housed behind double glass doors underneath. On the port side, a full settee with an adjustable table can be lowered to convert the area into a double berth. The pilot’s position is located on the port side, offering convenient access to navigation equipment and clear visibility of the engine and condition instrumentation. Both the pilot’s seat and the accompanying seat to starboard are Zwaardvis pedestal-mounted armchairs with padding for comfort. The cabin deckhead also features three hinged and dogged Lexan hatches, each measuring 25.5" x 25.5".
At the centerline, a hatchway with steps leads below to a spacious galley on the port side and a large, wraparound upholstered settee with a table and entertainment area on the starboard side. Natural light is supplied by three 12.5" x 5" opening ports on each trunk side, along with four 17" x 17" hinged and dogged Lexan hatches in the deckhead.
A companionway leads aft, alongside the engine room, to the master stateroom in the stern. Along the outboard side of this companionway, there is a work area with storage, as well as a 'Kariba' combination washer/dryer mounted at the aft end. The inboard side contains doors and control switches for the battery banks stored behind.
The master cabin is exceptionally spacious, featuring a queen-sized berth with ample storage and closet space. There are two 9" x 4" opening ports on each side, as well as two more in the transom. The deckhead also includes two 20" x 15" hinged and dogged Lexan hatches. The washroom, located forward on the port side, includes a custom fiberglass shower/bathtub with a high-quality finish.
Forward of the master cabin is a doorway leading into the forward accommodations. To the starboard side is a head, and on the port side, a shower, both with custom fiberglass finishes. Continuing forward, there is a large 'V' berth cabin, with bunks running up under the foredeck. Similar to the other areas, the shower and head are equipped with opening ports, with additional ports on either side of the forward cabin. There is also one 18" x 14" hinged and dogged Lexan hatch over the forward companionway and a 20" x 20" hinged and dogged Lexan hatch above the 'V' berth.
The vessel's joinery and finishes are of exceptional quality, with high-end fittings and equipment that have been meticulously maintained. Throughout the entire ship, there is an excellent use of natural light, enhancing the sense of space and comfort.
DECK HATCHES AND VENTS
The vessel is equipped with a total of 12 Lewmar aluminum-framed deck hatches, each with smoked Lexan covers, all hinged and dogged for secure operation. These include:
- 2 hatches measuring 15" x 20" on the aft deck
- 3 hatches measuring 25.5" x 25.5" on the cabin top
- 4 hatches measuring 17" x 17" on the forward trunk cabin
- 1 hatch measuring 18.5" x 13" on the forward trunk
- 1 hatch measuring 25" x 25" on the bow over the chain locker
- 1 hatch measuring 20" x 20" on the foredeck, behind the chain locker
Additionally, there are 2 solar vents on the pilothouse deck, and a single clam-shell vent is positioned on the port side of the transom. The vessel also features 4 flush, hinged storage hatches: two located behind the cockpit on either side, and two on the first step of the transom. There is also a hatch on the second step that can be used as a livewell tank.
MACHINERY
Propulsion Engine(s):
- Make & Model: Isuzu DA 120
- Power Output: 128 hp
Transmission(s):
- Model: Twin Disc 506
- Rotation: Right-Hand (RH)
- Gear Ratio: 1.97:1
Operating Hours:
- Engine(s): 515 since rebuild as reported
Auxiliary Engine(s):
- Make & Model: Kohler Diesel
- Power Output: 9 kW
Cooling System:
- Raw water-cooled with heat exchanger
- Dual 2" Perko sea strainers
Engine Controls & Instrumentation:
- Morse dual lever, push/pull cable
- Full engine instrumentation
- "Tank Tender" tank level monitoring system for fuel and water tanks
Pumps:
- 1 x 1.5" Groco pump, driven via an electric clutch off the main engine for fire or bilge pumping
- 2 x Rule 1500 GPM 12V submersible pumps, mounted in the bilges
Tail Shaft:
- 1.75" stainless steel
- Equipped with a dripless stuffing box
Tail Shaft Brake:
- Kobelt 10" air-activated disc brake
Propeller(s):
- Bronze, 3-blade, self-feathering
- 22" diameter
Steering Gear:
- Octopus hydraulic pumps connected to a Wagner hydraulic cylinder
- Manual Wagner steering system as a backup
Rudder:
- Foil-type rudder, mounted on a 4-bolt coupling
- Supported by a pintle bearing for added stability
Rudder Stock:
- 1.5" stainless steel
Skeg or Shoe (Leg):
- Constructed from aluminum strut
- Equipped with a Cutlass bearing
FUEL SYSTEMS
Number of Fuel Tanks:
- 3 diesel tanks
- Constructed from welded ¼" aluminum
- Total capacity: 1,730 liters (380 gallons)
Fuel Tank Filling:
- Filled through 1.5" flush deck fittings
Fuel Tank Venting:
- Vented via scallop vents on the cabin sides
Fuel Lines:
- Stainless steel pipes and fittings
- Neoprene fuel hose for flexibility
Shut-off Valves:
- Ball valves located at the tanks and primary filters
Fuel Filters:
- 1 x Racor 400 primary fuel filter for the main engine
- 1 x Racor 400 for the Auxiliary
Engine manufacture secondary filter on main engine
DECK EQUIPMENT
Anchors:
- 1 x Bruce hinged anchor-80 #
- 1 x CQR 75 #
- Weight: 80 lbs
- Chain: 400 feet of 3/8" galvanized chain
Anchor Winch:
- Muir vertical wildcat with warping head
- Voltage: 24V
- Bow Roller: Built into the bow sprit for secure anchoring
Deck Cleats:
- 8 x 12" stainless steel deck cleats
- 2 aft
- 4 midship
- 2 forward
Railings & Handholds:
- Railing stanchions made from 1 ¼" stainless steel tubing
- Height: 34"
- Reinforced at the base for added strength
- 1/8" coated stainless steel wire intermediate rails running along the top of the stanchions and midway to the deck
Radar Arch:
- 1 ½" stainless steel tubing radar arch located over the stern
- Holds the radar dome and 2 VHF aerials
Mast & Rigging:
- Mast: Single aluminum main mast and boom with self-furling system, built by 'Z Spar'
- Spinnaker Gear: Pole and boom vang by 'Z Spar'
- Stay & Rigging:
- 3/8" and 7/16" 1x19 stainless steel stays
- Stainless steel shackles and turnbuckles
- Running Rigging:
- ½" and 5/8" braided Dacron
- Furling Systems:
- Two additional Harken MK II roller furlers for the genoa and staysail
- Tracks:
- Stainless steel genoa track, staysail track, and mainsheet traveler
- Backstays: Adjustable backstays for improved sail control
- Deck Floods: 4 deck floods mounted on the mast spreader
- Radar Arch: 1 ½" stainless steel tubing radar arch mounted on the stern
Winches:
- Halyard Winches:
- 3 x Meissner 28 ST halyard winches, 3 ½" drums
- 1 mounted on the cabin top
- 2 mounted on the mast
- Primary Winches:
- 2 x Meissner 300 ST primaries, 7" drums, 70A
- Mounted on each side of the cockpit
- Self-Tailing Winches:
- 2 x Meissner 34 ST self-tailing winches, 5" drums
- Mounted on each side of the cockpit
Sails:
- Spinnaker: Cruising spinnaker
- Genoa: 110% genoa
- Stay Sail: One staysail
- Main Sail: One main sail
- Drifter: 90% drifter sail
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS
Wiring:
- Marine-grade, tinned wire throughout
- All systems are fused and properly secured
- All 110-volt outlets are individually fused
Lighting:
- All lighting has been converted to energy-efficient LED
Alarms and Sensors:
- SEA Watch 600 for monitoring the main engine and systems
- FireBoy/Xintex Dual Channel propane/CNG monitor
Batteries:
- 8 x 6-volt deep cycle golf cart batteries
- 2 x 4D 12-volt starting batteries
- 4 x 6-volt deep cycle golf cart batteries located forward to operate the 24-volt windlass
Alternators & Chargers:
- 1 x Leese Neville 24-volt, 55-amp alternator on the main engine
- 1 x Professional Mariner Promatic 110V to 12V, 55-amp charger
- 1 x Professional Mariner Promatic 110V to 24V, 20-amp charger
Inverter:
- Trace 12-volt to 110-volt, 1500-watt inverter
Shore Power:
- 2 x 30-amp shore power services, supplied through a 30-amp Acme Transformer
ADDITIONAL SYSTEMS
Disclaimer
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.
Pacific Coast Yacht Sales does not guarantee or warranty the presence of or the validity of the safety equipment on the boats that we sell.
Listing MLS by Yachtr.com
Contact Us
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Gulf Coast Team
Gulf Coast
USA
Office: 800-826-2807
Toll Free: 1-800-826-2807
Email: info@MurrayYachtSales.com