LADY J - PALMER JOHNSON FOR SALE

LADY J is a magnificent luxury motor yacht presented in immaculate condition, boasting comprehensive upgrades and bespoke appointments, with exquisite Cuban mahogany raised panels throughout. Her timeless interior and exterior lines pair with state-of-the-art entertainment systems. Outfitted with a remarkable suite of tenders and water toys, LADY J delivers unforgettable blue-water adventures. Embrace the elegance and comfort that set LADY J apart!

Overview

LADY J is an exceptional yacht that showcases the very best of Wisconsin craftsmanship, her Palmer Johnson pedigree paired with the signature lines of Tom Fexas Yacht Design delivering unmistakable style and superb seakeeping.

Her interior, conceived by Terence Disdale, achieves a timeless equilibrium of materials and mood, with exquisite Cuban Mahogany raised paneling and thoughtfully curated furnishings creating a warm, inviting ambiance. A tri-deck, five-stateroom layout—with the master on the main deck—ensures generous, well-balanced public and private spaces throughout, while the combined vision of Fexas and Disdale captures a truly enduring nautical aesthetic inside and out.

Recent and notable features underscore her turnkey appeal, including new Caterpillar engines and ZF transmissions installed in 2021; her Palmer Johnson pedigree with ABS classification and MCA certification; Quantum Zero-Speed Stabilizers; a massive inventory of water sports equipment and toys; a shallow draft for easy cruising in the Bahamas; and re-manufactured generators with zero hours as of 12/1/2023. Consistently maintained and upgraded over the years, and regarded as one of the best charter yachts in her class with a large book of business ongoing for future revenue, LADY J stands ready to impress.

Accommodations

Step aboard Lady J from the spacious aft deck through double doors into the generous main saloon, where a welcoming seating area graces the starboard side and a beautifully crafted custom built-in credenza lines the port side. Advancing forward to port within the saloon, a large L-shaped settee is arranged around end tables, a central ottoman, and an armchair, while to starboard a second custom credenza conceals a pop-up TV for effortless entertainment. Forward of the saloon, a refined dining room showcases a custom Cuban mahogany table with seating for ten. From here, a passage to port leads into a private serving pantry with direct access to the galley and onward to the crew entrance to port. Continuing from the dining area, a forward route provides access up to the sky lounge and down to the guest accommodations. To starboard lies the formal foyer with the vessel’s main entry, a day head, a hanging locker, and the approach to the master office and full-beam master cabin, where a king berth is complemented by large closets and a spacious bathroom featuring both tub and shower.

From the formal foyer, a stairwell descends to the guest foyer serving four guest staterooms, each appointed with an en-suite, full entertainment, ample closets, and comfortable berths. Lady J offers a remarkably versatile suite of berth arrangements ideal for family cruising or charter. Option A provides one king, two queens, four singles, and two trundles. Option B offers two kings, two queens, two singles, and two trundles. Option C presents three kings, two queens, and two trundles.

Returning to the formal foyer and ascending, the sky lounge deck foyer leads forward into a well-equipped pilothouse fitted with two Stidd chairs and a comfortable settee for optimal viewing, with the captain’s cabin set off to port. Moving aft, a day head serves the area en route to the sky lounge. Entering the sky lounge reveals a spacious retreat featuring a full bar centered to port, a settee with additional seating to starboard, and a four-chair card table aft to port. Double doors flanked by glass panels open to the bridge deck aft, where a large teak dining table for twelve is joined by built-in settees aft on either side, each with a central cockpit table. From this deck, a stairway descends to the aft deck, while to port and forward a stairway rises to the sundeck, where four loungers, a jacuzzi with bar seating, and a walk-up service bar invite relaxed outdoor living.

Back on the main deck aft, a round teak table seats ten for alfresco dining, and a graceful stairway leads down to the expansive swim platform, perfectly arranged for tender boarding to shore or for launching into water sports adventures.

Main characteristics

Crafted by Palmer Johnson and delivered in 1997 with a comprehensive refit in 2021, this yacht presents an LOA of 43.3 m (142 ft 1 in), a beam of 7.6 m (24 ft 11 in), and a draft of 2 m (6 ft 7 in). Designed by Tom Fexas with naval architecture by Tom Fexas in collaboration with Palmer Johnson and interiors by Terence Disdale, she is built to ABS and MCA compliant standards, carries a gross tonnage of 389 tons and a net tonnage of 116 tons, and displays a timeless white hull. Underway she cruises comfortably at approximately 11.5 to 12 knots and reaches a maximum speed of approximately 17.2 knots, delivering a range of approximately 3,000 nm at 10 knots (1,450 rpm) with 10% fuel remaining at 38.75 gph. Autonomy is supported by a fuel capacity of 49,205 Liters (12,998 US Gallons) and a water capacity of 7,570 Liters (1,999 US Gallons), with fuel consumption recorded at 70 gph at 12.5 knots, 110 gph at 14.5 knots, and 160 gph at 17.2 knots.

Main machinery

Power comes from two Caterpillar C32 ACERT D-rated engines, each delivering 1,625 HP and installed new in 2021, driving propeller and shaft propulsion through ZF 3050 transmissions with a 2.952:1 ratio, also new in 2021. Running on diesel, the yacht is directed from the pilothouse and both wing stations and is kept composed by Quantum Zero Speed Stabilizers. As of May 2026, engine hours stand at Port 2,225 and Starboard 2,225, with an option to extend warranty coverage through 2031.

Electrical power is supplied by two Northern Lights generator sets rated at 66 KW, 60 HZ, 1,800 RPM, and 120/208 Volt, capable of single- or three-phase output and enclosed in sound shields. A remanufactured engine was completed in 2023, new electrical ends were fitted in 2018, and generator hours show Port 4,000 and Starboard 4,000 as of May 2026.

The ship’s electrical system is AC 120/208 Volt, 60 cycle, with Atlas 73 KVA shore power and batteries fitted.

Climate control comes via Flow Marine compressors replaced in 2018, with air handlers serving each section of the vessel.

A 20-inch bow thruster of approximately 80 HP provides proportional control at the console and wing station, while freshwater autonomy is assured by two 1,800 GPD FCI Aqua Miser + watermakers.

Domestic equipment

Designed for effortless entertaining and serious culinary ambitions, the yacht’s galley and service areas are comprehensively appointed with two Kitchenaid ovens new in 2018, a Samsung microwave, and a Wolf induction cooktop new in 2020. Cleanup is swift and professional thanks to a Jet Tech industrial dishwasher paired with a Miele dishwasher. Cold storage is abundant with two Sub Zero refrigerators and two Sub Zero freezers, complemented by two chest freezers—3.5 cubic feet in the galley and 4.5 cubic feet in the lazarette. Coffee service and refreshments are always at hand with two espresso machines and six small bar fridges thoughtfully positioned throughout the guest areas, including the master, sundeck, bridge deck, guest foyer, and lazarette. Laundry needs are managed with two Miele washing machines and two Miele dryers. Dessert and preparation capabilities extend to a Paco Jet ice cream maker, a Thermomix, and a vacuum sealing machine, while ice production is ensured by two smaller ice machines in guest areas and one commercial ice machine. Rounding out the toolkit are various small appliances, including a Vitamix, an air fryer, and a deep fryer, delivering a professional-grade platform for hosting at every level.

Communication equipment

Seamless connectivity on board is assured by two Starlink communication and internet systems, complemented by a Sailor 900 VSAT, new in August 2019, with Wi‑Fi, and robust long‑range capability via Fleet 55 and Sailor SAT C. Voice and shipwide communications are managed through a Toshiba Strata telephone system, a Furuno DSC VHF radio, a Sailor VHF radio, and a Sailor SSB radio, new in 2018, while two GPS units support navigation equipment and phones. Safety and situational awareness are enhanced by a Pains Wessex EPIRB and a new digital video surveillance system with five cameras and a hard drive. Entertainment and information arrive via a satellite TV system with two networked Intellian TVRO antennas, and onboard administration is streamlined with an HP fax/printer/scanner.

Navigation equipment

At the helm, the yacht is equipped with a JRC JMA 5300MK2 radar with two X-band units, a Furuno FM 8900s VHF, a B&G H3000 controller for wind and meteorological data, a Simrad AP70 MK2 autopilot paired with a Simrad FU80 FU control, a Furuno FA170 AIS, dual GPS through a Furuno P3007 and a Furuno GP 32, and a Montavue 8 channel 4k H265 CCTV system. At the captain’s desk, the suite continues with a Furuno NX-700 NAVTEX, a Sailor 6006 message terminal for SAT-C, a Furuno FM 8900s VHF, a Sailor 6301 MF/HF controller, dedicated navigation computers running Transas Navi sailor 4000 software version 3.00.340 and Nobletec Time zero – Software version 4.1.0.51.

Entertainment equipment

An extensive DVD and CD library anchors a comprehensive onboard media experience that includes DSS Satellite TV with coverage across Europe, the USA, the Bahamas, and the Caribbean, while Wii and XBOX 360 consoles with a huge assortment of games ensure endless family-friendly entertainment. In the Main Salon, a Runco 50" retractable plasma television pairs with a NAD amp receiver with DVD/CD player, Sony 4 sets of speakers, an iPod docking station, and AppleTV to create a true cinematic hub. The Skylounge echoes this premium setup with a 50" retractable LG plasma television, a Viso 5 receiver amp/ DVD/CD player, a Sony HiFi VCR, Sony 4 sets of speakers, an iPod docking station, and AppleTV for relaxed movie nights and sporting events. The Master Stateroom features a 32" Samsung flat screen television, a NAD amp receiver with DVD/CD player, a Sony HiFi VCR, Sony 4 sets of speakers, and an iPod docking station for private indulgence. Guest Staterooms are appointed with a 20" Sharp flat screen television and Smart TV capability with Netflix/Peacock for effortless streaming. For the crew, the quarters include a 32" Smart TV, while the Captain's cabin is equipped with a 27" Smart TV, ensuring comfort and connectivity throughout.

Deck equipment

The foredeck carries two 330-pound Pool N anchors and two Maxwell hydraulic windlasses, complemented by two lengths of 450 feet of 5/8-inch galvanized chain to ensure dependable holding and smooth operation. A bow-mounted crane accommodates two wave runners and provides additional storage. Boarding and shore access are refined by a 4-meter Sanguinetti passerelle and two Marquipt sea stairs with teak treads. On the aft deck, two Maxwell VWC3500 hydraulic units are installed.

Safety, firefighting, and security equipment

Prepared for every passage, the yacht carries twenty-seven adult and four child-size USCG- and SOLAS-approved life jackets, complemented by twelve Type II inshore life jackets and thirty-one ASE emergency escape hoods. Four 30-inch life rings stand ready for rapid deployment, while ACR searchlights and a Carlisle and Finch searchlight provide powerful illumination for night operations. Safety systems are equally comprehensive, with smoke detectors in all guest cabins, carbon monoxide and heat detectors safeguarding the engine room and lazarette, and a network of audible and visual indicators tied to an integrated detection system for fire, water ingress, smoke, bilge water level, and fuel overfill. Fire protection is engineered with a CO2 pull-pin/shutoff system for the engine room, a dedicated galley fire pull pin featuring an Ansul R-102 wet-chemical fire suppression system, an EEBD in the engine room, and two firefighting suits. Offshore readiness is underscored by two twenty-person Switlik SOLAS A life rafts in canisters with offshore survival packages, and onboard care is supported by a Class B full medical emergency kit and a telemedicine subscription with MSOS.

Tender and watersport equipment

Outfitted for limitless adventure, the yacht carries a fourteen-foot Aquascan tender powered by a Yamaha engine, complemented by two Yamaha VXR Cruiser wave runners from 2019. Guests can explore at their own pace with four kayaks and two stand-up paddleboards, while an array of water toys keeps the fun going for all ages. Anglers will appreciate an array of fishing equipment, and wellness enthusiasts will find dedicated exercise equipment onboard. For underwater exploration, the yacht features eight-person scuba dive gear along with a Bauer dive tank compressor and spares.

Refit history

In 2025, the yacht benefitted from new fabrication and replacement of the main engine exhaust over the last six feet, an upgraded and more automated steering transfer system enabling seamless transitions from FU to backup to emergency, and two new FCI Aqua Miser+ watermakers, each rated at 1,800 GPD.

The 2024 works included a complete rebuild of the stabilizer fin actuators, the ABS drydocking survey in process, sandblasting and recoating of the black and grey tanks, installation of a new Alpha Laval fuel polisher, and newly fabricated sea chests built to ABS standard.

In 2023, re-manufactured generator engines were installed, a four thousand hour service was completed on the stabilizers, a partial repaint refreshed the profile, and two Starlink internet antennas were added.

In 2022, a new Gyro Sphere was installed.

The 2021 program replaced the main engines and transmissions with a full factory warranty extendable to 2031, completed the five-year ABS Special Survey, renewed all running gear bearings and seals, issued a new Stability Book, delivered a major service to the Quantum stabilizers, and added an AB Model 310 Jet Tender—2019 model—to the inventory.

In 2020, teak was replaced on the main deck, swim platform, and steps.

In 2018, teak was renewed on the bridge deck, Portuguese Bridge, and steps to the fore deck; the topsides were repainted at Luu Marine; generator electrical ends were replaced; the galley was remodeled with all new appliances; and new Flow Marine A/C chillers were installed.

Comments

LADY J is a well-appointed, well-constructed, US-built yacht showcasing the world-renowned craftsmanship of Palmer Johnson in Wisconsin. Benefiting from a distinguished lineage of ownership that has meticulously preserved her excellent condition, she has also received numerous substantial upgrades over the years, including the installation of brand-new Caterpillar C32 main engines paired with ZF transmissions. Ready to cruise or charter at a moment’s notice, LADY J represents a compelling opportunity for both the first-time buyer and the seasoned yachtsman.

Exclusions

Excluded from the sale are the thirty-foot Intrepid towed tender, the owner’s personal items including two sets of slalom skis and ski rope, and all crew personal items.