1981 Formosa 51

1981 Formosa 51 Ketch – Proven Ocean Cruiser with Recent Investment This 1981 Formosa 51 is a substantial, ocean-capable ketch built for serious bluewater cruising. Designed with the traditional strength and character that Formosa yachts are known for, she offers a solid cruising platform with the reassuring motion and stability expected of a long-keel yacht. Her teak decks were renewed in 2021, and a comprehensive osmosis treatment was completed in 2024, providing long-term hull protection. The long cast iron keel and keel-hung rudder give directional stability offshore and a forgiving motion at sea. Power is provided by a Ford Lehman 120hp diesel engine, recently serviced, supported by an 8.5kW Northern Lights generator. A bow thruster (installed 2016) assists with close-quarters manoeuvring. The ketch rig features a 65ft main mast (2019) and a 45ft mizzen mast (2024), along with a full wardrobe of North sails, offering flexibility and balance for passagemaking. Below deck, KUAN YIN presents a traditional teak interior with accommodation for six across three cabins. The aft master cabin is generous, while the forward cabins provide practical space for guests or crew. The saloon features classic joinery and a wood/coal stove, creating a warm atmosphere in cooler conditions. The linear galley is equipped for extended cruising with a full-size electric oven, gas hobs, and ample refrigeration. As with many yachts of this era, she offers a strong structural foundation alongside systems that may benefit from ongoing refinement and personalisation to suit a new owner’s cruising plans. For buyers seeking a capable, traditionally built offshore yacht with recent investment in key structural areas, this Formosa 51 represents an opportunity to acquire a serious bluewater platform. Available through Williams & Smithells International. Construction Owners version White GRP hull with blue bootstrap Osmosis treatment completed in 2024 Teak laid on GRP decks New teak laid in 2021 White GRP Centre cockpit superstructure Long cast iron keel Keel hung rudder Wheel steering Ford Lehman 120hp, 6-cyl diesel engine Borg Warner gearbox Shaft drive to three-blade prop 8.5kW Northern Lights generator Machinery recently serviced in 2024 Bowthruster (2016) 12v and 220v onboard voltage 220v rewired 2020 3 x 200amp/h Engine and service batteries 200amp/h Generator start battery Victron Energy 200amp battery charger Fast cranking facility to main engine 75A alternator on the main engine Manual regulator for auto charging 800 liters Fuel capacity in GFK tank 700 liters Water capacity in GFK tank 2 x Holding tanks Accommodation for six in three cabins. Forward V-berth with twin bunk berths to starboard Forward heads to port opposite twin cabin Forward heads with shower and wash basin Saloon with L-shaped seating to starboard Additional seating to port, with TV unit behind. Wood/coal free-standing, stainless steel stove with flue to deck. Central companionway from co