Freedom - BURGER BOAT COMPANY FOR SALE

With the timeless poise of American craftsmanship, the 1979 Burger 86' Raised Pilothouse stands as a celebrated classic among luxury motor yachts and a benchmark among aluminum yachts, uniting pedigree and presence in an unmistakably elegant silhouette. Built in aluminum by Burger, this semi-displacement yacht stretches a confident 86 feet overall and carries a broad 20-foot beam, gifting her with generous interior volume and wonderfully wide side decks. The raised pilothouse profile offers commanding sightlines and that coveted separation between navigation and lounging, while the strength and lightness of an all‑aluminum hull and deck underscore Burger’s reputation for enduring quality. Lying in the United States, she invites inspection from connoisseurs who appreciate traditional grace refined by purposeful design.

Underway, twin MTU inboard diesel engines deliver poised performance, settling into an easy 13‑knot cruising cadence and rising to 17 knots when the itinerary calls. The semi‑displacement form glides with reassuring composure, coupling efficiency with the confident feel that seasoned yachtsmen prize. A substantial fuel capacity of 5,000 gallons and 900 gallons of fresh water extend her autonomy between shores, encouraging unhurried coastal passages and weekend escapes alike. Whether slipping out for a sunset harbor tour or stretching her legs on a longer voyage, this Burger answers with quiet authority and a satisfying turn of speed.

On board, the ambiance is gracious and inviting, with sunlight warming an expansive salon crafted for conversation, dining, and relaxed evenings at anchor. Thoughtful accommodations provide welcoming privacy for owners and guests, complemented by five heads to ensure comfort throughout extended stays. Broad aluminum decks lend confidence underfoot and flow naturally to alfresco spaces ideal for morning coffee or cocktail hour. As a vintage raised pilothouse motor yacht from one of America’s storied builders, this 86‑footer balances heritage and capability with rare finesse—an enduring platform for those who value authenticity, seaworthy construction, and the enduring allure of life on the water.

Main description

The 1979 Burger 86' Raised Pilothouse Freedom is a handsome, classic Burger yacht that exemplifies the builder’s most sought-after features, including four watertight bulkheads, a double bottom, and a full keel that protects her props. She delivers excellent range and fuel economy at displacement speeds, yet confidently reaches 20 knots in moderate seas at full power. Every upgrade has been executed in harmony with her original lines and concept, preserving the rich Burger trademark quality and grace that resonate throughout. Meticulously maintained and steadily refined with thoughtful improvements over the years, Freedom presents and performs like a much newer yacht. Under her current ownership she has been beautifully updated with new marble countertops throughout, textured wallcoverings, new flooring, and a host of enhancements that infuse a distinctive Carolina Chic while honoring the timeless sophistication of classic Burger style. Notably, the top of the flybridge windshield measures 17'08" from the waterline, making her Great Loop capable.

Vessel walkthrough

A raised pilothouse layout sets the tone for effortless cruising, with a full-beam main salon that invites relaxation and entertaining. Multiple entries from port and starboard side doors, the aft deck, or either side of the pilothouse make circulation seamless. The salon flows forward to a wet bar area, while an on‑deck powder room sits just ahead. Continuing forward on the main deck, the galley and formal dining room are thoughtfully positioned, with stairs leading down to the crew quarters and the air‑conditioned engine room; the crew area offers two staterooms. A comfortable, curved stairway from the main salon serves the owner and guests, revealing three aft staterooms, each with a private head and shower; the full‑beam master lies all the way aft and features a king bed. Above, the flybridge excels as a gathering space with covered seating for a crowd under the new Bimini top, complemented by open seating further aft and ample room for a tender and jet skis with a powered davit. A comprehensive update and decorating program in 2019/2020—and continuously since—has refreshed the yacht inside and out with a beach‑cottage flair and a touch of Carolina Chic, all while preserving the unmistakable Burger taste and ambiance. Freedom is beautiful.

The professional galley delivers serious capability with vast amounts of storage and many new appliances from 2016–2024, including a Wolf cooktop new in 2017, Sub‑Zero refrigerator and freezers in both the galley and bar area, and an Eskimo 500 lb per day ice maker with custom bin, joined by a new smaller ice maker added in 2024. For extended cruising, a new freezer is positioned on the aft deck. Laundry is handled by a Bosch washer and dryer from 2017, while two new Kalamera wine chillers were added to the main salon in 2019. Entertaining moves naturally outdoors with a wet bar and grills on the aft deck with storage, also new in 2019.

Below, machinery is specified for reliability and comfort. The main engines show 8,200 total hours, with approximately 3,300 since in‑frame overhaul. Climate control is assured by Cruisair chilled‑water air conditioning, two six‑ton units with reverse‑cycle heat, updated in 2017 with new compressors and computer boards, supplemented by electric auxiliary heaters in the accommodations. Handling and ride are enhanced by an American Bow Thruster hydraulic system and Naiad stabilizers with a Datum control system and updated fin heads. The helm is equipped with Pannish controls and a Glendinning engine synchronizer. Practicality is evident in a work bench with sink and integrated toolbox, a Sealand Vacuflush toilet system, a Quincy air compressor, and a Matrix 1000 gpd water maker (pickled). Safety and service systems include an automatic Halon fire system, automatic DC bilge pump and AC crash pump, dual Racor 1000 FG fuel filters with electric primer pumps for the main engines, Racor 500 MA fuel filters for the generators, and electric and manual fuel transfer pumps with a Fill‑Rite transfer gauge. Spares include two spare props and spare stub shafts.

Navigation and communications are modern and comprehensive. A Starlink satellite system was added new in 2024, complementing a newer Simrad electronic suite from 2013 that includes a 6 kW HD radar, a 4G Broadband radar, an AP12 Autopilot with Accusteer, an AIS system, Sirius Weather, two NSO processors, six IS40 Multidata displays, four 15‑inch daylight LED monitors, and five OP40 control heads with a satellite compass. Shipwide connectivity and communication are supported by a Panasonic two‑line phone system with intercom, a Telular and Netcom 4G data modem, and a Sea 332 SSB radio. Visibility and awareness benefit from a Carlisle Finch searchlight, three Icom VHF radios—two on the flybridge with remote speakers and one in the pilothouse—engine room, masthead, and afterdeck cameras with PTZ, a Fusion stereo system on the flybridge, a Maretron windspeed, barometer, temp and windspeed sensor, and an NVTI night vision camera.

On deck, ground tackle begins with a 70 kg Bruce anchor on 300 feet of chain, supported by two spare Danforth type anchors in the lazarette, an IDEAL electric windlass, and an aft capstan. The teak decks have been replaced over the years and are in excellent condition. Tenders and toys are handled with confidence by a Nautical Structures 1500 tender lift with power luff, slew, and linear winch, while a swim platform with custom stair to the aft deck makes water access effortless. Comfort and control on the bridge are assured by a Bimini top, a Stidd helm chair, and all new white exterior cushions added in 2024.

Exclusions

As customary, the seller’s personal belongings and any onboard tools are expressly excluded from the sale.

Mechanical disclaimer

Engine hours are stated as of the date of the original listing and reflect information provided to the listing broker by the owner and/or readings taken from the engine hour meters. The broker cannot guarantee the accuracy of the hours. It is the responsibility of the purchaser and/or his agent to verify engine hours, warranties implied or otherwise, and major overhauls, as well as all other representations contained in the listing brochure.

Disclaimer

All particulars of this vessel are presented in good faith; however, accuracy cannot be guaranteed and no warranty is made regarding the vessel’s condition. Prospective buyers should instruct their agents or surveyors to verify any details they wish to have validated. This vessel is offered subject to prior sale, price change, or withdrawal without notice.

Broker's comments

Freedom is presented in excellent condition throughout, a standout offering and arguably the best value in a motor yacht of her size available anywhere in the world today. This is a rare opportunity, and a change in the owner’s circumstances makes her an exceptional purchase for a prompt sale.