INNISFAIL - N/A FOR SALE

INNISFAIL is a remarkable Mathis–Trumpy fantail luxury motor yacht featuring sought-after galley-up configuration and an illustrious American lineage. Launched in 1939 for Joseph Cudahy of Illinois, she subsequently served with the U.S. Navy during World War II, then returned to private hands, where her decks welcomed multiple United States Presidents throughout her storied past.

Her thoughtful layout provides a forward pilothouse, a full-beam galley, a generous salon, a full-beam owner’s suite with an offset queen berth, two ensuite guest cabins, and a spacious fantail aft deck enjoyed open or enclosed. Fastidiously maintained over the years, INNISFAIL presents in superb condition and stands as a model of exemplary stewardship.

Overview

INNISFAIL, Contract No. 242, is one of the few remaining Mathis–Trumpy fantail yachts built. Commissioned by Joseph M. Cudahy of Illinois for U.S. East Coast cruising—the second Mathis Trumpy he commissioned—she was launched as INNISFAIL and later designated YP-354 in 1942 when commandeered by the U.S. Navy for World War II service. During her naval tenure she carried two 20mm cannons on her decks and a depth charge rack on her stern, serving her country in this capacity for five years before being refit in 1947 by the U.S. Government. She continued in government service, utilized by U.S. Presidents, foreign dignitaries, and heads of state until 1965, when she returned to private ownership. A comprehensive 2007 refit restored her original name, and she has since been meticulously cared for inside and out; she holds a current USCG-Inspected Vessel Certificate for sixty-five passengers.

A classic American fantail motor yacht and an unmistakable World War II veteran used by numerous U.S. Presidents, she offers a large aft deck and an enormous salon, three owner and guest ensuite staterooms, and generous crew accommodations with three cabins. Presented in beautiful condition throughout, she is USCG-inspected for sixty-five passengers.

Accommodations

INNISFAIL showcases John Trumpy’s highly desirable “galley-up” arrangement, with the wheelhouse forward flowing into a full-beam galley offering pass-through access to the portside deck, then an exceptionally large salon, and a beautiful aft fantail deck that can be opened to the breeze or enclosed during inclement weather. Forward on the lower level, crew accommodations for five are followed by the engine room, a full-beam master stateroom, a midship guest twin, and an aft VIP twin set beneath the fantail. All guest staterooms are ensuite.

Galley

Thoughtfully designed for both serious cooking and effortless entertaining, the galley features durable Formica countertops surrounding a GE five-burner stainless glass-top range, serviced by an overhead extraction fan for clean, comfortable ventilation. A Whirlpool stainless convection microwave from 2022 partners with a stainless refrigerator also new in 2022, while everyday convenience is assured with a coffee maker and toaster at the ready. The large double stainless sink with a pull-out spray faucet makes prep and cleanup easy, all set over a classic parquet sole and illuminated by overhead lighting. Two fifteen-inch round ports and expansive windows bathe the space in generous natural light, and abundant storage neatly organizes foodstuffs, plates, glasses, and more. Seamless flow is ensured with a half Dutch door and pass-through to the portside deck, a forward companionway providing access to the wheelhouse, a swing door leading to the salon, and a companionway door opening to the starboard deck.

Salon

The salon is appointed with a Samsung forty-inch TV installed in 2024, set above a carpeted sole and beneath a painted headliner accented by varnished solid-wood beam laths. Natural light pours through twelve windows with shades, illuminating an inviting seating plan that includes two custom barrel chairs, an extra-long sofa to port, and, forward, a large corner settee paired with a cocktail table. Two aluminum portlight side tables and a table lamp provide convenient surfaces and warm ambiance, while a buffet chest with generous storage keeps the space orderly. Climate is easily managed via A/C controls, and a companionway leads to the owner and guest staterooms.

Owner's stateroom

INNISFAIL features a full-beam owner’s stateroom amidships. A previous owner thoughtfully transformed the original separate twin berths into a more contemporary offset queen berth arrangement that preserves the yacht’s traditional character. Just outside, the passageway incorporates a linen locker, a fire hydrant station, and 120V remote electrical panels.

Within the suite, the offset queen berth is complemented by a bureau with eight drawers and another with four drawers, a full-length mirror on the entryway door, and a cedar-lined hanging locker. A large storage area beneath the stairwell accommodates larger items with ease. Comfort and climate are managed by an A/C control and air vent, while natural light and fresh air are welcomed through two opening portlights dressed with curtains. The painted overhead and bulkheads pair with a carpeted sole to create a bright, quiet ambiance, enhanced by LED overhead lighting. Entertainment is provided by a Samsung TV mounted on the aft bulkhead in 2024, and safety is elevated with a smoke and carbon monoxide detector.

Ensuite owner's head

The ensuite owner's head is appointed with a marble-tiled stall shower and a porcelain pedestal wash basin, complemented by a Tecma electric head. Storage is neatly provided by a corner cabinet, while an opening portlight invites fresh sea air, supported by an efficient exhaust fan for optimal ventilation. The space is beautifully finished with a painted overhead and painted bulkheads above a matching marble-tiled sole, and practical towel racks keep linens close at hand.

Aft VIP-guest stateroom

INNISFAIL features a generous full-beam aft VIP-guest stateroom, maintained in its original configuration, presenting two large fore-and-aft twin oversized lower berths to port and starboard with drawer storage below, comprising four storage drawers beneath. A centerline chest of drawers anchors the space, complemented by two large cedar-lined hanging lockers. Illumination is provided by two reading lamps, while four opening portlights with curtains invite natural light and fresh air. Comfort and safety are elevated by air conditioning controls and a smoke and carbon monoxide detector, and the ambiance is refined by wall-to-wall carpet, a painted overhead, and painted bulkheads.

Ensuite aft guest head/day head

Designed for both privacy and day use, this ensuite aft guest head is appointed with a large marble-tiled shower and matching marble-tiled flooring, complemented by a porcelain wash basin and a Tecma electric head. A large mirror enhances the sense of space, while an opening portlight with curtains invites natural light and fresh air, aided by an exhaust fan for optimal ventilation. Practical details include a towel rack, a painted overhead and painted bulkhead for a crisp finish, and a three-door locker with generous outboard storage. Convenient direct access to the hallway or the adjacent cabin ensures effortless circulation throughout the yacht.

Midship guest stateroom

Beautifully appointed at midships, the guest stateroom provides two fore-and-aft twin berths with large storage drawers beneath for effortless organization. A cedar-lined hanging locker safeguards wardrobe essentials, while a dedicated A/C control and air vent allow personalized climate comfort. Further storage is elegantly addressed by two four-drawer bureaus, complemented by a soft carpeted sole and the crisp refinement of a painted overhead and painted bulkheads. An opening portlight with curtain introduces natural light and fresh air, completing this serene and practical retreat.

Ensuite midship guest head

This refined ensuite midship guest head is appointed with a marble-tiled shower and a matching marble-tiled sole, complemented by a porcelain wash basin and mirror, and equipped with a Tecma electric head. Ventilation and natural light are provided by an exhaust fan and an opening portlight with curtain, while the painted overhead and painted bulkheads lend a crisp, bright finish.

Crew accommodations

Situated forward and reached via a companionway ladder from the pilothouse, this dedicated crew zone encompasses a forward captain’s cabin with a centerline full berth, a well-proportioned settee with an adjoining laundry area, and two over-under twin crew cabins to port and starboard, along with direct access to the engine room for efficient service. The space is finished in crisp white paneling accented with teak trim, creating a bright, functional, and seamanlike environment.

Captain's cabin

The captain’s cabin centers on a full berth with drawer storage beneath, complemented by a dedicated desk and office area and practical bookshelves. Lighting is both focused and ambient, with two reading lamps and overhead illumination, while a hanging locker provides orderly stowage. Six opening portlights invite natural light and fresh air, and the finish is crisp with a painted overhead and painted bulkheads, refined by a mirror and a comfortable carpeted sole. For onboard administration, an Epson printer/copier/fax stands ready, and navigation data is supported by a Garmin repeater, not currently connected to the GPS antenna.

Port crew cabin

Thoughtfully appointed, the port crew cabin features upper and lower single berths, complemented by an opening portlight that invites fresh air and natural light. A hanging locker with a mirror on the inside of the door pairs with multiple shelves to keep essentials neatly organized, while generous drawer storage beneath the berths maximizes space. The classic teak-and-holly sole adds warmth and durability, and two reading lamps provide focused illumination for personal comfort.

Starboard crew cabin

The starboard crew cabin provides upper and lower single berths, thoughtfully illuminated by two reading lamps, with fresh air and natural light courtesy of an opening portlight. Personal essentials are neatly organized in a dedicated toiletry cabinet, while a hanging locker with a mirror on the inside of the door enhances convenience and readiness. Underfoot, a classic teak-and-holly sole showcases timeless maritime craftsmanship.

Crew head

The crew head is thoughtfully appointed with a Tecma electric head and a stainless wash basin, complemented by a full stall shower and convenient towel bars. Illumination and ventilation are ensured by an overhead light and fan assembly, while the teak-and-holly sole lends a warm, classic maritime finish.

Crew social area

Set on a warm teak-and-holly sole, the crew social area blends relaxed comfort with practical purpose. A varnished dinette table with seating for five invites unhurried meals and conversation, while a flat-screen TV and a Sony stereo system enhance downtime. Daily routines are made effortless with an LG washer and dryer and a GE chiller/refrigerator, complemented by a bookshelf for reference and leisure reading. Thoughtful stowage abounds, including overhead locker storage, a dedicated locker for cleaning supplies, and an iron with ironing board, with a vacuum at the ready to keep everything shipshape. Natural light and fresh air pour through two opening portlights, and convenient stairs lead directly to the pilothouse. Safety is prioritized with a four-person Winslow valise life raft, repacked in February 2026 and valid for three years, alongside an ACR EPIRB secured in the ditch bag.

Hull and deck equipment

Crafted for enduring elegance and strength, the yacht features a 2" mahogany plank-on-oak frame hull, screw-fastened and fortified by three steel bulkheads serving the anchor locker, forward engine room, and aft engine room. Varnished teak graces the side decks, bow, and fantail, while teak rails run the full length of the vessel with double intermediate lifelines. Safety is comprehensively addressed with assorted fenders and dock lines, assorted life jackets and all USCG-required safety gear, placards, and lighting, complemented by three throwable ring buoys. A folding signal mast carries steaming and anchor lights, two cowl vents enhance airflow, and a ventilation hatch services the crew quarters.

The aft deck invites effortless entertaining with a full-beam transom upholstered bench seat, a teak dining table, and six teak dining chairs with cushions, flanked by two teak dry bars. For refined refreshment service, the aft deck is equipped with KitchenAid refrigerator and freezer drawers, a dedicated wine chiller, and a Scotsman ice maker. Comfort and protection are ensured by a full Isinglass enclosure with zippered openings, while port and starboard wing doors add convenience. Forward, an upholstered bench seat and a bow shade create serene lounging, and day-to-day practicality is met with a freshwater wash spigot portside amidships, starboard-side stairs to the flybridge and tender deck, a deck box and coolers, plus two additional deck boxes for cleaning supplies.

Launch and boarding operations are handled with precision by four hand-crank tender davits, Marquipt boarding stairs with eight steps, and a side boarding ladder, with a burgee staff socket ready at the bow. The tender suite includes a 10' wooden dinghy with oars and a 12' wooden dinghy with oars and a 6hp Mercury outboard. Ground tackle is equally robust, featuring an anchor davit, two Danforth-type anchors of approximately 70lbs and 60lbs, and an Ideal windlass with a foot switch.

Air draft is 30' with the mast up, 27' with the mast down and antennas up, and 21' with the mast down and antennas down to the top of the radar.

Machinery and electrical

Propulsion is delivered by two Detroit Diesel 228 hp 8V71N engines showing approximately 10,050 hours as of May 2026, mated to two Allison MH30 2.97:1 transmissions for confident, efficient performance. Ship’s power is assured by a 1996 Northern Lights 30 kW 1800 RPM generator with 8,322 hours as of May 2026 alongside a 1992 Northern Lights 27 kW 1800 RPM generator with 13,806 hours as of May 2026. The electrical system is supported by two 8D engine starting batteries and two 8D generator starting and house batteries, maintained by two ProMariner ProNautic 12-50P chargers—one dedicated to the house bank and one to the starting bank. Serviceability and protection are thoughtfully addressed with an oil change pump for the main engines and transmissions, dual Racor fuel filters for both generators, and dual Racor fuel filters for both main engines. Comfort on board is managed by two Dometic 48,000 BTU chillers feeding air handlers distributed throughout the yacht, while hot water is provided by two twenty-gallon water heaters. Additional systems include a Metabo HPT 135 PSI air compressor, a Marathon freshwater pump with accumulator tank, and manual Hynautic hydraulic steering for precise control. Reliability is further enhanced with two new main engine through-hulls installed in 2026 and a new port generator through-hull in 2026, while dockside convenience comes via 50-amp shore power service inlets to port and starboard.

Wheelhouse and electronics

Commanding the wheelhouse is an eight-spoke ship’s wheel with a stainless rim set before a helm array that blends traditional touchstones with modern navigation. Direction is sure and immediate via a binnacle compass, two double-lever controls, two engine gauge clusters, and the American Bow Thruster control. Precision feedback arrives from a Raytheon ST60+ rudder angle indicator and a Raymarine ST40 digital depth sounder, while a Simrad EVO12 radar/chartplotter pairs seamlessly with a Simrad AP28 autopilot and the Simrad QS80 autopilot dodge lever for confident course keeping. Situational awareness is further heightened by two engine room cameras and an aft deck camera tied into the Simrad system, complemented by an ACR AIS Transceiver and two ICOM IC-M510 VHF radios with CommandMic units (2025). Audible and visual signaling is ready with an air whistle, an air horn, and a powerful searchlight, supported by wipers and controls for clear views in all conditions. Electrical management is straightforward with a 12-volt panel and a 120-volt panel, alongside an engine shutdown control box and a dedicated bilge pump control panel, while AC controls and overhead lighting fine-tune comfort and illumination. The space is refined by a Fusion stereo, a Chelsea clock and barometer set, and framed Certificates of Inspection on the aft bulkhead, with an upholstered bench seat providing two chart drawers beneath and a handsome teak parquet sole completing the wheelhouse.

Broker remarks

INNISFAIL stands among the most significant and recognizable classic American yachts currently available, offering an exceptionally rare opportunity to acquire a true piece of yachting history. A highly desirable, larger pre-war Trumpy, she has been beautifully maintained, thoughtfully updated, and comprehensively equipped for both private enjoyment and respectful commercial use. Her timeless lines, graceful proportions, and expansive crew accommodations deliver a level of comfort and practicality seldom found in yachts of her era.

Commissioned in 1939, INNISFAIL boasts a remarkable and storied pedigree, having hosted numerous United States Presidents—Roosevelt, Truman, Eisenhower, Kennedy, Nixon, Ford, Reagan, and Clinton—together with foreign dignitaries and heads of state. During World War II she served the United States Navy as patrol vessel YP-345, outfitted with twin 20 mm cannons on deck and depth charge racks mounted aft. Her survival through wartime service, followed by many distinguished chapters in private hands, further cements her status as one of the truly iconic surviving American motor yachts.

The current owners have been exemplary stewards, cruising her extensively from the Florida Keys to Nantucket while maintaining her to a very high standard. Although operated solely as a private yacht, they have preserved her USCG Inspected Passenger Vessel certification for up to 65 passengers, a designation that demands rigorous annual and biennial inspections and surveys. INNISFAIL presents superbly throughout, and discerning buyers stepping aboard will immediately recognize the pedigree, craftsmanship, and extraordinary level of care she embodies. Few yachts afloat today offer such a compelling fusion of provenance, capability, and enduring elegance.