THIS OLD HATT - Hatteras FOR SALE

THIS OLD HATT was reborn from the keel up by legendary builder and refit maestro Tom Slane with a complete 1991 transformation, then thoughtfully modernized through 2026, culminating in a fresh Alexseal Off White finish from the rub rail up—an elegant sheen befitting a bluewater convertible sportfish.

Slane—the son of the Hatteras founder—was entrusted to return this iconic 53C Hatteras Convertible to as‑new stature. His team gutted the interior to the stringers and rebuilt in light oak, crafting three staterooms, two heads, a contemporary galley, and a refined salon. No compromises were taken: every plumbing run and the entire electrical system were replaced, delivering later-model motor-yacht reliability while preserving timeless Carolina lines.

Both mains were rebuilt, lifting output roughly 35 percent above the standard 650 hp rating. Since the major overhaul, the port engine shows about 80 hours, while the starboard indicates approximately 475 hours.

The flybridge has been wholly re-envisioned around a custom helm console, and with the addition of a tower and outriggers, THIS OLD HATT is tournament-ready and eager to hunt offshore pelagics.

In the cockpit, anglers enjoy a bespoke tackle center, bait freezer, live baitwell, teak cockpit sole, teak covering boards, and a fighting chair—an offshore battle station.

THIS OLD HATT is a truly one of a kind sportfishing yacht for aficionados who admire the enduring profile of the 53C Convertible yet demand updated systems, equipment, and finish that rival many newer boats on the water.

Vessel walkthrough

Boarding “THIS OLD HATT” across the teak covering boards, a sculpted teak step box guides you into the spacious teak‑soled cockpit, appointed for serious anglers with a fighting chair and a custom tackle center.

One teak step up, a hinged door opens to the interior accommodations, where a welcoming salon has been refreshed to mirror modern sisterships. To starboard, a generous L‑shaped leather sofa invites relaxation, balanced to port by a leather sofa and table. Opposite the dinette, the galley presents undercounter refrigeration beneath a U‑shaped counter configuration, with a cooktop and convection oven forward.

Proceeding forward and down several steps, the master stateroom carries a queen berth to starboard and a private en‑suite head. To port, the guest stateroom provides upper and lower bunks and a shared guest head, followed by the forward cabin, which also features upper and lower bunks.

Accessed via a teak‑treaded ladder, the flybridge showcases a thoughtfully redone helm station with updated electronics, a full tuna tower, and Rupp triple‑spreader outriggers.

Salon

A single teak step and a hinged door set slightly to port lead into a salon that immediately impresses with a modern aesthetic, its light oak finishes and green accents creating a refined, welcoming ambiance. To starboard, a four-cushion leather sofa with full storage beneath pairs effortlessly with a coffee table, while within easy reach sits the vessel’s main power distribution center. Moving forward, a three-drawer end table precedes a leather five-cushion sofa arranged for seating for four at the mounted dual pedestal dining table, all beneath a soffit illuminated by three overhead lights.

Further forward, a custom flat screen TV cabinet rises to reveal the vessel’s AV suite, featuring a Visio 39" HDTV, a Yamaha stereo receiver, a Sony Blu-ray player, an Intellian Satellite TV controller, and a DIRECTV receiver, with two oak tambor doors positioned below. The space is complemented by Silhouette style blinds, two stereo speakers, and a carpeted sole, with illumination enhanced by two DC overhead lights. Practical touches include a Whynter Ice Maker new 2026 and a two-door storage cabinet under the galley countertop facing aft.

Galley

The U-shaped galley is positioned forward of the salon on the port side, where a white Corian countertop with a molded Corian sink provides abundant workspace. Beneath the counter sit two under-counter U-Line refrigerators, new in 2026, while the remaining space is dedicated to cookware and storage, comprising seven drawers, seven cabinet doors, and four sliding cabinet doors. Completing the suite of appliances are a four-burner Thermador electric stove and a Sharp Carousel convection/microwave oven. The galley sole is finished in teak and holly, a soffit above the countertop houses a fluorescent light fixture, and Silhouette blinds with upholstered valances grace both the port and starboard sides.

Companionway

From the galley area centerline, four wooden steps, each with storage below, lead to the accommodations. The centerline companionway is carpeted, guiding you to starboard where the master cabin awaits with a queen-size berth set outboard and a private head forward. To port, an upper-and-lower cabin provides two berths with private access to the guest head, while just ahead a door opens directly to this guest head, allowing it to function as a convenient day head. Furthest forward, the third cabin features twin upper and lower berths, a hanging locker, and private access to the guest head, and it also houses the laundry center.

Master cabin

Entered from the forward end to starboard, the master cabin presents a queen-size berth set against the outboard bulkhead, with four drawers discreetly integrated beneath. A curved upholstered headboard with twin reading lights is positioned aft, while inboard a two-drawer nightstand adds convenient stowage. At the foot of the berth, a cedar-lined hanging locker expands wardrobe capacity, and centered is the access door to the private head. Outboard, a corner cabinet incorporates three drawers and, below, a cabinet with counter space above, while a 20" LED TV mounted above faces the berth. Overhead, an opening deck hatch welcomes natural light and fresh air. The cabin is finished with dedicated A/C controls, two stereo speakers, and a volume control for personalized comfort.

Master head

Just forward of the master cabin lies a private head that blends thoughtful design with refined finishes, its entry door lined with mirrored panels for a sense of depth and light. A two-door Formica vanity anchors the space, crowned by a cultured marble top with a molded sink, while above, a mirrored medicine cabinet and a linen locker keep essentials neatly stowed. The sole is teak and holly, complemented by a Vacuflush toilet set on a small matching teak and holly riser. Inboard, the stall shower features an obscure glass door, dedicated lighting, and a handheld or wall-mounted fixture. The space is bright and well-ventilated, with ample lighting and an exhaust fan ensuring comfort and freshness.

Portside guest cabin

To port, over-under berths are set outboard, each with its own reading light, while above the upper berth an upholstered valence conceals warm rope lighting to create a gentle glow. Inboard, a two-drawer nightstand offers practical storage, and forward a cedar-lined hanging locker keeps garments fresh. Overhead, a deck hatch invites natural ventilation, complemented by two stereo speakers and a convenient volume control. Just ahead lies the guest head.

Guest head

Thoughtfully designed with three doors, the guest head serves each guest cabin and the center companionway as a convenient day head, maximizing privacy and effortless flow. A refined vanity features one cabinet below crowned by a cultured marble top with a molded sink, while above, a mirrored medicine cabinet and a storage locker keep essentials neatly organized. The sole is classic teak and holly, and the Vacuflush flush toilet is elevated on a matching teak and holly riser for a cohesive presentation. The dedicated stall shower is enclosed by an obscure glass hinged door and includes a light and a handheld fixture that also mounts to the wall. Ample illumination and an exhaust fan ensure a fresh, comfortable environment, while mirrored panels on the inside of the head door enhance the sense of space and brightness.

Forward cabin

Positioned all the way forward, this spacious cabin features upper and lower twin berths along the starboard hull side, each bunk served by its own reading light. Practical storage abounds, with four drawers neatly arranged beneath the lower berth, while at the extreme forward end the anchor locker is conveniently accessed. To port, the hull side is fitted with two upper cabinets, complemented below by four additional drawers and a cabinet topped with a countertop to create a tidy work surface. Aft to port, a cedar lined hanging locker offers generous wardrobe space, and across the beam a dedicated locker houses a Whirlpool Thin twin washer/dryer.

Foredeck

Forward, the Hatteras FRP pulpit presents a robust working platform served by a Galley Maid windlass with rode, chain, and capstan, complemented by convenient windlass stomp switches. An anchor roller assembly carries a 55-pound Fortress anchor backed by 150 feet of rode, while two cleats to port and starboard provide secure tie-off points. Safety and confidence underway are enhanced by an aluminum bow rail and a modified aluminum handrail along the house side, with non-skid fiberglass decks painted in a very light tan ensuring sure footing. Offshore readiness is affirmed by a Switlik six-man life raft and international navigation lights.

Cockpit

The cockpit is finished in rich teak across the deck and covering boards, setting a refined stage for serious angling. Purpose-built features include four flush-mount rod holders complemented by four additional rod holders on the tower legs, and a full-size fighting chair crowned with a four-place rocket launcher. Practicality meets craftsmanship with a step-box capped by a teak lid and convenient storage below the step to the salon. Fish and bait management are effortless thanks to an under-deck live well to port, two under-deck hatches, and a lift-out fish box with macerater aft, while a stainless steel freezer sits under a hinged top to port side. A walkthrough transom door and gate provide easy access, and a seven step teak treaded ladder to the flybridge is mounted off the deck for clear deck space. Deck hardware is robust and refined, featuring two under gunnel stainless steel cleats with transom fairleads. Deck maintenance and fish cleanup are simplified with both fresh water and raw water washdown systems, and an Armstrong type swim ladder stands ready for effortless water entry. Tackle and rigging are neatly organized within eight tackle drawers concealed behind two hinged cabinet doors, supported by an electric reel outlet, bait prep under a hinged top at center, and a dedicated bait thawing locker to starboard.

Flybridge

The flybridge features two custom varnished ladder-back helm and companion chairs, a forward bench seat with storage below, and a custom venturi windscreen with a grab rail, complemented by a 24V to 12V electronic step-down transformer to support onboard systems. Six rod holders line the aft rail, while additional storage is finished with teak-accented doors, and a new Stamoid top crowns the tower over the flybridge. Rupp triple spreader outriggers stand ready for serious angling, ladder access to the tuna tower is provided by twelve well-spaced steps, and the contrasting non-skid fiberglass deck ensures secure footing in all conditions.

Flybridge helm

A custom helm console framed by a new Palm Beach enclosure commands an advanced navigation suite anchored by two 12” Simrad NSS12 EVO3S multifunction displays with C-map charts, Insight charts, GPS, sounder, and Wi-Fi, installed 2023. Precision control comes from the Simrad 2004 Auto Pilot Pack, installed 2023, including the A2004 control, AC70 Computer, RF300 Rudder Reference, and Precision 9 compass, while long-range awareness is delivered by the Simrad Halo 4 Pulse 4’ open array compression radar, installed 2023. Depth and fish-finding performance are enhanced by the S5100 sounder 2/3kw chirp transducer with standard frequencies, installed 2023, paired to an R5O9C-LH chirp transducer operating from 38kHz to 210 kHz. For monitoring and entertainment, two engine room cameras installed 2023 and an Intellian SAT TV antenna installed 2023 are complemented by two iCom M604 VHF radios installed 2023, an ACR Point Pad Searchlight control, and a Ritchie magnetic compass.

Engine and vessel management are intuitively handled via trolling valves, a Glendinning engine synchronizer switch, Morse split throttle and clutch controls, emergency engine stops, trim tab control, and a Hatteras systems monitor. Critical status is clearly displayed through four bilge pump switches with indicator lights, full VDO engine gauges, and two voltmeters for electronics, while onboard ambiance and power distribution are provided by a Kenwood stereo and twelve electronic breakers. Practical finishing touches include ignition switches, engine start/stop buttons, and anchor light/nav light control, all positioned for effortless command at the helm.

Tuna tower

A twelve-step full tower, new in 1991, rises above the cockpit, crowned by a buggy top and completed with a seat on the tower. Command from aloft is managed through a control box with Morse split throttle and engine controls, while a center rigger extends the spread and a dual-trumpet air horn signals with authority. After dark, two quartz lights provide crisp illumination.

Engine room

Powering this immaculate compartment are twin Detroit Diesel 12V71 TIs tuned to 870 horsepower, turning through Twin Disc Gear transmissions with a two-to-one ratio. The port motor has approximately 80 hours since a major overhaul, with receipt available, while the starboard shows approximately 475 hours since its overhaul. Fuel delivery is meticulously managed by two Racor 75/1000 MA fuel/water separators with vacuum gauges for each engine, complemented by a Racor 500 MA serving the genset, a four‑valve fuel manifold, and direct‑reading gauges for water temperature and oil pressure on both engines. Clean, efficient breathing is ensured by the Airsep crankcase ventilation system, while two CRS 3000 coolant recovery systems stabilize engine temperatures. Newer exhaust risers, sea strainers, and a high water alarm system add further confidence and protection.

Daily operation is effortless thanks to a Glendinning engine synchronizer, two Stuart Warner fuel priming pumps, an AC raw water pump, and four Cruise Air AC units. A Reverso three‑point oil change system simplifies service, supported by a Goulds 110V freshwater pump and a DC freshwater pump. Freshwater comfort is assured by a water heater, and onboard production is handled by a Sea Recovery water maker rated at 800 GPD with 1492 hours, paired with a Sea Recovery prefilter. The Eskimo E600 ice machine keeps the day well supplied, while two toilet vacuum pumps maintain dependable sanitation. Steering and control are crisp and reliable via the Hynautic hydraulic steering system and Bennett trim tab system.

The space is thoughtfully appointed with a five‑drawer toolbox topped in wood that serves as a sturdy step into the engine room, two CCTV cameras for monitoring, bilge blowers, four bilge pumps distributed throughout the vessel, three incandescent DC engine room lights, and six fluorescent overhead light fixtures. Three fuel tanks hold 1,100 gallons, feeding two and one‑half inch stainless steel prop shafts through flax stuffing boxes, with an aft fuel tank electric fuel gauge for at‑a‑glance status. Safety and style extend below the waterline with two Ocean LED Pro Xtreme 16 series underwater lights, while a Fireboy fire suppression system stands ready, underscoring the engine room’s commitment to performance, reliability, and complete peace of mind.

Electrical

The yacht’s electrical architecture is engineered for dependable, shipwide power management, anchored by an Onan 21.5KW generator with 1311 hours that was replaced in 1991. Dual-voltage 110/220V AC and 12/24V DC systems provide versatile power delivery throughout. DC ships service number one offers sixteen breaker-protected circuits in the salon, while DC ships service number two adds twelve breaker-protected circuits in the engine room. AC distribution is equally robust, with a panel featuring ten breaker-protected circuits in the engine room and a companion panel supplying sixteen breaker-protected circuits in the salon. A Hatteras switch gear panel integrates two volt meters, four amp meters, and a selector switch for shore and 110/200, complemented by a generator start/stop switch and frequency meter in the salon for immediate oversight. Shore power arrives via two 50-amp 220V shore cord inlets, and onboard charging is handled by a Sentry 24V 40-amp battery charger and a Sentry 12V 40-amp battery charger. Energy storage is provided by four 8D batteries secured in dedicated battery boxes, protected by three battery cutoff switches and unified by a comprehensive electrical bonding system.

Remarks

Included with the sale, though not currently aboard, are a 9-inch Simrad NSS9 EVO3S with Insight charts, GPS, sounder, and Wi‑Fi, new in box, and two Miya Epoch 900dx electric teaser reels. “THIS OLD HATT,” with her extensive refit and many upgrades, will go toe to toe with much newer vessels. Hatteras devotees no longer need to choose between the classic lines of the 53 Convertible and a modern boat with today’s popular accommodations, as “THIS OLD HATT” presents both in a true turnkey package. Hatteras fans will immediately spot the meticulous attention to detail that has refreshed this battle wagon, while savvy boaters will see an exceptional opportunity to fish a legend built to last a lifetime.

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 are advised to instruct their agents or surveyors to investigate any details they wish to have validated. This vessel is offered subject to prior sale, price change, or withdrawal without notice.

Overview

“THIS OLD HATT” has been rebuilt from the keel up by renowned boat builder and renovation expert Tom Slane for a complete refit in 1991, with continued upgrades through 2026 including a fresh coat of Alexseal Off White paint from the rub rail up. Slane, the son of the founder of Hatteras, was commissioned to restore this classic 53c Hatteras to like-new condition, and he and his team stripped the interior down to the stringers before rebuilding in light oak to showcase three staterooms, two heads, a modern galley, and a welcoming salon. There were no shortcuts in refreshing “THIS OLD HATT,” as the entire plumbing and wiring systems have been renewed.

The engines were also rebuilt, increasing horsepower by 35 percent over the standard 650hp. Since major overhaul, the port motor has approximately 80 hours while the starboard has approximately 475 hours. The flybridge has been completely reimagined and now features a custom helm console, and with the addition of a tower and outriggers “THIS OLD HATT” is ready to reel them in.

Anglers in the cockpit are treated to a custom tackle center, bait freezer, live baitwell, teak cockpit sole, teak covering boards, and a fighting chair. “THIS OLD HATT” is a one-of-a-kind vessel for those who cherish the timeless lines of the 53c yet desire the updated systems and equipment of a much newer boat.