FIRST LIGHT - WINTER CUSTOM YACHTS FOR SALE

“Preliminary” — full specifications to follow. FIRST LIGHT, the 2018 Winter Custom 65' Express Sportfish, is a rare blend of relentless bluewater capability and truly high-end yacht craftsmanship. Built without compromise and finished to standards typically reserved for larger custom sportfishing yachts and motor yachts, she offers tournament-grade fishability while preserving the poise, comfort, and flawless fit-and-finish of a luxury cruising sport yacht.

Introduction

FIRST LIGHT, the 2018 Winter Custom 65’ Express, is a rare convergence of uncompromising offshore performance and true high-end yacht craftsmanship. Built without shortcuts and finished to standards typically reserved for much larger custom yachts, she delivers elite tournament-level fishability while maintaining the refinement, comfort, and fit-and-finish of a luxury cruising platform. Designed by anglers for anglers, the layout is purpose-built to hunt: a massive cockpit, intelligent deck flow, excellent visibility from the helm, and the speed and seakeeping Winter Custom Yachts is known for. Whether backing down on a blue marlin or running hard to the next canyon, this boat performs with authority and confidence. Below deck, the story continues with bespoke woodwork, premium materials, and a level of detail that immediately separates her from production builds; every surface, system, and finish reflects thoughtful design and execution, resulting in a yacht that is as impressive at the dock as it is offshore. This is not just a fishing boat with nice finishes; it’s a true custom express that fishes hard, travels fast, and lives comfortably. For the buyer seeking a no-compromise 65’ express with pedigree, performance, and presence, this Winter stands second to none. FIRST LIGHT is a must see now, as she won’t last long.

Cockpit

The cockpit is purpose-built for serious offshore fishing. Generous in scale and cleanly laid out, it offers exceptional working space for multiple anglers and crew during tournament days or long-range canyon runs. Thoughtfully integrated, air-conditioned mezzanine seating delivers welcome comfort without sacrificing deck efficiency and provides excellent sightlines into the cockpit. Custom tackle storage, optimized livewell placement, and excellent fishbox capacity are executed with the hallmark attention to detail of Winter builds; every hatch, lid, and hinge is robust, overbuilt, and finished to the same standard found throughout the vessel. Adding to its readiness, a built-in ice chipper keeps the boxes cold, tuna tubes to port and starboard stand prepared for live bait, and an air-conditioned bench ensures cool respite between bites.

Helm

Moving forward, the raised helm delivers outstanding visibility and confident command underway or when maneuvering on a fish. The helm layout is intuitive and uncluttered, with electronics positioned for effortless operation. Custom helm seating offers excellent support on long runs while maintaining real comfort for both captain and guests. This express configuration keeps the captain connected to the cockpit at all times, reinforcing the boat’s fish-first design while maintaining protection from the elements. Throughout the helm area, from the dash work to the upholstery and hardware, the fit and finish reflect true custom-yacht standards rather than production shortcuts.

Bridge

At the heart of command, the bridge electronics suite is comprehensive and competition-ready, featuring three 26-inch Garmin displays with integrated radar, depth, and camera controls; Humphree trim tab control; Garmin autopilot control; a Furuno color scanning sonar; Seakeeper‑16 control; Maretron tank monitoring; FLIR thermal imaging; and a Fusion stereo. Seamless communication and situational awareness are further ensured by two Icom IC‑M506 VHF radios, hydraulic outrigger controls for rapid spread adjustments, and dedicated helm A/C controls for a cool, focused wheelhouse.

Mezzanine

The mezzanine is a social and functional hub, with seating for eight and a smart coffee table that flips up, expands, and converts for dining, transitioning seamlessly from chase to celebration. A dedicated tackle center keeps gear organized and ready, while two deep refrigerator/freezer units handle provisions and the day’s catch. Separate A/C controls allow guests to fine-tune comfort independent of conditions in the cockpit.

Salon

Stepping into the salon, the transition from hardcore sportfishing machine to refined cruising yacht is immediate. Rich custom woodwork, premium soft goods, and a warm, inviting layout create a space equally suited for entertaining or unwinding after a long day offshore. Well-placed lighting keeps the salon bright and airy, while the arrangement remains practical and secure underway. Every detail, from cabinetry joinery to hardware selection, underscores the quality of a fully custom build, delivering comfort without excess and elegance without sacrificing function. Entertainment and practicality are anchored by a 48-inch Samsung TV with sound bar, a full-down Pullman bunk discreetly integrated for additional berthing, and generous storage beneath the salon seating.

Guest head

The guest head is full-size and thoughtfully appointed, featuring a spacious shower and finishes that mirror the yacht’s overall custom quality, ensuring guests enjoy comfort and privacy at sea.

Galley

The galley is compact yet gourmet-ready, appointed with a Miele microwave/convection unit and a Kenyon two-burner cooktop for versatile preparation, built-in glassware holders to secure stemware under way, and a De’Longhi espresso machine alongside a Cuisinart toaster oven for effortless daily rituals. Cold storage is abundant with four Sub‑Zero refrigerated drawers, while a built-in liquor cabinet keeps spirits organized and at hand.

Master stateroom and head

The master stateroom is thoughtfully designed to maximize comfort and privacy, offering a level of space and serenity rarely found on express-style sportfishers. The berth is well-proportioned, with generous storage, custom cabinetry, and refined finishes throughout, and a separate full-size private head enhances exclusivity. Attention to sound insulation and ventilation ensures quiet, comfortable rest even after extended runs, while craftsmanship mirrors that of much larger custom yachts. Highlights include a 42-inch Samsung TV and his-and-hers reading lights, underscoring a cabin crafted for owners who value both performance and livability.

Guest foyer

Practicality meets convenience in the guest foyer, where a full-size GE washer and dryer make extended cruising and tournament weeks effortless to provision and manage.

Guest stateroom / port

The port guest stateroom features twin-size over/under beds, providing comfortable accommodations for crew or family without compromising storage or circulation.

Guest stateroom / starboard

Mirroring its counterpart, the starboard guest stateroom offers twin-size over/under beds, delivering flexible berthing in a quiet, well-finished space.

Engine room

Access to the engine room is excellent, reinforcing the boat’s serious offshore pedigree. Systems are cleanly laid out, clearly labeled, and designed for serviceability—exactly what knowledgeable owners and captains expect from a Winter build. The machinery space reflects meticulous planning and execution, with ample room around major components and an organization level that speaks to reliability and longevity. This is an engine room designed to be run hard, maintained easily, and trusted offshore.

Exclusions

“FIRST LIGHT” is a registered name and does not convey. Exclusions are to include, but are not limited to, all owner’s personal items. A detailed list of exclusions will be provided at the time of sale upon written request.