SYLPHIDE - METALCRAFT MARINE FOR SALE

Motor Yacht SYLPHIDE is a 44-foot, all-aluminum cruiser offered for sale, a rare private build from the renowned fire, patrol, and military ship specialist MetalCraft Marine. Reimagined for yachting, this compact passagemaker/trawler yacht accommodates up to four guests in two staterooms and boasts a refined air draft of about 11 feet for confident bridge clearance. Powered by a single Perkins, she cruises at 7 knots while sipping roughly 1 GPH of diesel for remarkably efficient coastal exploration.

Her exceptionally low profile—approximately 11–13 ft—unlocks effortless access along the ICW, canals, and inland waterways. The robust 5083 marine-grade aluminum hull is constructed to commercial standards for outstanding durability, corrosion resistance, and long-term structural integrity. Enduring range is a hallmark: the efficient single-diesel setup returns about 1 GPH at 7 knots, yielding an approximate 1,500 NM cruising capability. A comprehensive interior refit in 1995 thoughtfully optimized liveaboard comfort with a practical two-stateroom, two-head layout that blends utility with understated elegance. As one of the very few private yachts to emerge from MetalCraft Marine, SYLPHIDE marries workboat pedigree with refined presence, presenting a distinctive aluminum motor yacht and pocket explorer for adventurous cruising—economical, quiet running, and purpose-built for serene passagemaking.

Overview

Boarding SYLPHIDE is effortless through port or starboard gates that open onto wide, full walkaround decks, where updated 3M nonskid decking ensures secure footing. A blend of aluminum and stainless-steel stanchions with vinyl-wrapped lifelines guides you safely forward to the bow, while the foredeck’s sturdy aluminum pulpit and well-specified ground tackle underscore the yacht’s purposeful, seagoing design.

Aft, the raised cockpit is both functional and inviting, protected by a newer Bimini top and thoughtfully appointed with removable seating, a teak table, and built-in propane storage integrated beneath the bench seating. From the transom, a boarding ladder leads to a teak swim platform, and a simple block-and-tackle davit system streamlines tender handling. The AB Inflatable tender is currently kept on its own lift at the dock and is shown separately in the photos.

Step in from the aft deck and descend a few steps into a warm, practical interior finished with a teak and ash sole throughout. The main salon offers a comfortable living space with a settee, built-in storage, and a high-low table that adjusts seamlessly for dining or casual use, all illuminated by large windows that deliver abundant natural light and excellent visibility.

To port, the galley is arranged in an efficient L-shaped configuration with ample counter space, drawers, and lockers suited to extended cruising. Opposite to starboard, additional storage and systems access are laid out with clear, functional intent.

Forward of the salon, guest accommodations are designed for privacy and comfort. The forward stateroom features a V-berth with storage, opening portlights, and an overhead hatch. Just aft, a separate stall shower lies to port and an enclosed head to starboard, each with proper ventilation and practical finishes. Additional storage, a hanging locker, and a small desk/navigation area further enhance the usability of this forward section.

The master stateroom aft, accessed via a separate companionway, presents a centerline queen berth, generous drawer storage, hanging lockers, and built-in bedside cabinetry. Multiple opening portlights and an overhead hatch provide excellent natural light and ventilation, while the ensuite head includes a vanity, sink, and additional storage to complete this private owner’s retreat.

Climate control is delivered by two-zone reverse-cycle heat and air conditioning, supplemented by a separate furnace heat system, making SYLPHIDE exceptionally well-suited to a wide range of cruising environments.

Saloon

A teak and ash sole sets a warm, refined tone, while the settee, recovered in 2022, invites relaxed gatherings around the attached table, and built-in lockers and storage keep the space beautifully organized.

Galley

The L-shaped galley up is thoughtfully appointed for effortless cooking under way, featuring a durable tile countertop and a large stainless-steel sink with a separate drinking faucet. Culinary capability centers on a two-burner Force 10 propane stove with oven, safeguarded by a Shadow II LPG monitor/control, while a countertop pellet ice maker stands ready to keep refreshments perfectly chilled. Provisions stay fresh in the RecPrar AC/DC refrigerator, and swift meal prep is aided by a Black & Decker microwave and a dedicated coffee maker. An adjustable drop-leaf table transitions smoothly from additional prep area to an inviting dining surface, and alfresco moments are elevated by a Cuisinart rail-mounted grill.

Entertainment equipment

A Vizio flat-screen TV provides immersive onboard viewing, while a Weems & Plath brass barometer and thermometer deliver timeless nautical instrumentation, blending entertainment and precision in a refined presentation.

Accommodations

In the private aft stateroom, a centerline queen-sized berth anchors the space, complemented by an ensuite head. Built-in bedside tables with lockers and teak louvered hanging lockers provide thoughtful stowage, joined by a dresser with five drawers, six white cabinets, and a teak vanity. Natural light and airflow are assured by four opening portlights and one opening overhead hatch.

Forward, the stateroom features a versatile V-berth with storage and a filler cushion, with a teak louvered anchor locker and net shelves close at hand. Ventilation comes via two opening portlights and one overhead hatch.

Along the forward companionway, a hanging locker and a convenient desk sit beneath one overhead hatch, while a full-size stall shower with an opening portlight to port is balanced by a head to starboard with a vanity and an opening portlight. Practicality continues with dedicated engine room access.

Helm

The lower helm, set forward to starboard, places the captain in command with a Garmin GPSmap XSV multifunction display partnered with Garmin Radar, a Wagner SE-Autopilot Gen2, and a Wagner gimbaled compass for precise navigation. Communications are assured by a Standard Horizon Spectrum+ VHF marine radio and a Standard Horizon hx150, while a B&G Network Quad delivers speed, depth, temperature, and timer data at a glance. Engine gauges and AIS keep critical metrics front and center, and a Marinco Spotlight with D-pad and remote, new in 2026, extends visibility with pinpoint control. The upper helm, positioned aft to port, offers effortless authority through hydraulic steering and Ultraflex gear/throttle controls, complemented by oil pressure, engine temp, and a tachometer, with a removable Pompanette helm chair to perfect the commanding view.

Deck equipment

On deck, thoughtful equipment ensures effortless handling and relaxed days at anchor. At the bow, a Rocna anchor on 3/16 chain is managed by a Muir electric windlass with foot-control retrieval, led over an aluminum pulpit with anchor roller. For redundancy, a Danforth auxiliary anchor is neatly stowed. Safety and security are enhanced by stainless steel stanchions with vinyl-wrapped guide wire, aluminum safety rails aft, and port and starboard boarding gates. The aluminum decks are finished with 3M EVA nonslip foam flooring (2024) for comfort and grip. A transom gate with a stainless steel ladder leads to the teak swim platform, complemented by a collapsing swim ladder for easy water access. Shaded lounging comes courtesy of the green bimini, while snap-on hatch screens invite cooling breezes. The helm benefits from a two-panel windshield with opening vents and two electric windshield wipers, paired with a Springfield captain’s chair for confident command. Practicalities include raw water washdown, fenders and lines, an exterior table and chairs for alfresco moments, and dedicated storage with a propane locker aft and an LPG locker bench seat. A folding mast provides versatile air clearance (24 ft up, 11 ft down), and safety at sea is further supported by a Life-Sling.

Mechanical equipment

Powering this yacht is an 85 hp Perkins 4.236M direct-drive diesel motor showing 2,729 hours as of April 07, 2026, paired with a Borg-Warner Velvet Drive transmission for smooth, dependable thrust. Command comes easy via Ultraflex cable gear and throttle and precise hydraulic steering, while a Lasdrop dripless shaft seal, a one and three-quarter inch stainless steel shaft with shaft saver, Thorden bearings, and a three-blade 24 x 11 bronze propeller complete a robust and efficient running gear. Climate comfort is assured by two Dometic reverse-cycle heat and air-conditioning units complemented by furnace heat. The fuel system inspires confidence with fuel pump and injectors updated in 2025, a Racor 500FG fuel filter, and an Algae-X fuel polisher. Safety and serviceability are enhanced by portable fire suppression throughout and two bilge pumps with well pump separator. Onboard amenities include a Vacuflush head system, a Nautilus MKII Desalinator watermaker, assorted spare parts, and Ameron Amercoat 235, while underwater exhaust and a 19.9-gallon hot water heater underscore a quiet, capable, and thoroughly outfitted mechanical suite.

Electrical equipment

The vessel is powered by a 120VAC / 12VDC 60 Hz ship’s power system anchored by a Yanmar 2GM2OF paired with an LSA41 alternator generator, showing 299 hours as of April 07, 2026. Shore connectivity is via a 50A service with a 50ft cord, conditioned through an Acme Electric Isolation transformer for clean, protected input. Energy storage is provided by a bank of six ProEnergy BB AGM 6V house batteries complemented by an AGM engine start battery, while a Freedom Marine Freedom25 2500W inverter/charger installed in 2023 delivers efficient AC conversion and charging, all monitored through a Heart Interface Link-2000-R. The alternator was rebuilt in 2026 to ensure dependable output across the system.

Build description

Crafted in marine‑grade 5083 aluminum, the hull is formed from robust 1/4‑inch plate, while the deck, house, bottom stringers, topside frames, and futtocks are precisely fabricated in 3/16‑inch plate of the same alloy. Deck beams and frames are likewise executed in 1/4‑inch aluminum for unwavering rigidity and structural integrity. The protective coating system is meticulously sequenced with Interprotect hull primer, followed by an Amercoat 235 epoxy midcoat and capped with antifouling hull paint, while surfaces above the waterline—including the hull, decks, and deckhouse—are finished in PSX 700 epoxy for enduring gloss and resilience.

Tender

A 2018 AB Inflatables Defender 10ft 6in tender (HIN: XMO51015A818) is powered by a 2019 6hp Yamaha Four Stroke outboard for dependable performance, complemented by a block and tackle at the stern for effortless handling, and is conveyed with a Virginia Title.

Broker comments

SYLPHIDE stands as a compelling alternative to traditional production trawlers, pairing commercial-grade construction with exceptional efficiency and the rare ability to reach waterways that many vessels simply cannot access. Her unique pedigree, united with a thoughtful refit, yields a capable, low-cost cruising platform rich in character—perfect for the experienced boater intent on cruising differently rather than conventionally. It is uncommon to find a vessel offering this level of build quality, range, and versatility entering the market at this price point.