
Licensed Yacht BrokersSales and service of yachts and shipsThe 61 ConvertiblefromBUDDY DAVISblends tournament-ready capability with comfortable cruising, presenting itself as a versatilemotor yachtand purpose-builtsport fishermanwith a robustfiberglass hull. Work directly with broker Andrey Shestakov at Shestakov Yacht Sales to evaluate inventory, options, and availability for this distinguished model.
Selecting a 61 Convertible
Choosing the 61 Convertibleis about balancing offshore ambition with onboard comfort. Anglers seeking a capablesport fishermanwill value the fuel capacity for range and the stable Semi Vee running surface, while owners planning family cruising will appreciate the generous accommodations and practical deck solutions typical ofBUDDY DAVIS. Shestakov Yacht Sales and Andrey Shestakov can guide you through specifications, surveys, and timing to ensure the yacht aligns with your plans.
Features of the Model
- Twin inboard Detroit Diesel power delivers dependable propulsion and straightforward serviceability — a proven choice for extended outings.
- Semi Vee hull configuration for confident running and predictable handling, complemented by a durable fiberglass and plastic yachtsbuild and fiberglass decks.
- Substantial fuel capacity (1,550 gal) supports long fishing days or coastal passages; 250 gal of fresh water enhances liveability during multi-day trips.
- Accommodations for up to 6 with sleeping for 4 allow owners to host crew or family comfortably.
- Beam and layout support cockpit workability for serious anglers while maintaining salon and cabin comfort.
Technical Specifications
- Builder: BUDDY DAVIS
- Model: 61 Convertible
- Type: motor yacht
- Class: sport fisherman
- Hull material: fiberglass and plastic yachts
- Deck material: Fiberglass
- Hull configuration: Semi Vee
- LOA: 17 ft (5.21 m)
- Beam: 17 ft (5.21 m)
- Max draft: 18.591 ft (5.6666 m)
- Engines: 2 x Detroit Diesel
- Engine type: Inboard
- Fuel type: Diesel
- Fuel capacity: 1,550 gal
- Water capacity: 250 gal
- Accommodations: 6
- Sleeps: 4
Pricing and Ordering
For current pricing, availability, and purchase options for the 61 Convertible, contact Andrey Shestakov at Shestakov Yacht Sales. Our team will coordinate specifications, offers, surveys, sea trials, and delivery logistics to streamline your acquisition.
Questions and Answers
Q: What type of yacht is the 61 Convertible? A: It’s a versatilemotor yachtconfigured as a high-performancesport fishermanwith a durablefiberglass hull. This combination targets bothoffshore capabilityandcomfort.
Q: What engines power the yacht? A: The model is equipped with 2Detroit Diesel engines withinboardinstallation, running ondieselfor reliable range and service support.
Q: How suitable is it for longer trips? A: With a fuel capacityof 1,550 gallons andfresh watercapacity of 250 gallons, the61 Convertiblesupports extended time on the water without frequent resupply.
Q: How many people can stay aboard? A: The yacht provides accommodationsfor up to 6 andsleepingfor 4, offering flexibility for crew and family.
Q: How do I buy or list this model with Shestakov Yacht Sales? A: Reach out to Andrey Shestakov at Shestakov Yacht Sales for pricing,inspection, andclosingsupport on the61 Convertible; we manage the process end-to-end, from viewing to delivery.
Owner Experience Review
Owners and captains use the 61 ConvertiblefromBUDDY DAVISboth as a tournament-level sportfisher and as a capable cruiser. The model’s big cockpit with teak covering boards and tournament layouts suits competitive fishing, while 3–4 stateroom, 2–3 head arrangements, a comfortable salon/galley, and generous storage make extended island-hopping or even liveaboard stints realistic. Families also note the roomy accommodations and foredeck space for casual casting or lounging.
On the water, the ride reputation is a recurring theme: the "legendary Carolina ride" with soft, dry re-entry and strong bow flare that copes well with head seas, plus nimble handling for a 61-footer and 360° cockpit sightlines favored by crews working the deck. As one reviewer put it, "I love the Davis 61 and think it is just about the most perfect used fishing boat you can buy," and a frequently cited design note sums it up: "Everything starts with the bottom hull shape...and it’s pretty damn effective."
Real-world performance depends on power: many boats with Detroit 12V92s report roughly 22–25-knot cruise and 26–30-knot wide-open speeds, while Cat or MTU repowers commonly post higher cruise in the mid-20s and tops in the low-30s. Inside, high-quality joinery and the signature bubble helm draw praise, but typical ownership involves diligent upkeep: owners highlight easy engine-room access with slick finishes and oversized wiring, yet older systems often see refit work—generator swaps, hull paint and teak renewals, salon window rebedding, cutlass bearing replacement, AC and plumbing service, bottom jobs—and many aging two-stroke Detroits face overhaul risks that lead owners to repower rather than rebuild.
Pros and Cons
- Renowned Carolina ride with soft, dry re-entry and strong head-sea capability.
- Tournament-ready cockpit and 360° sightlines that make deck work efficient.
- Excellent engine-room access with slick finishes and oversized wiring that simplify routine service.
- Aging Detroit 12V92s often face overhaul risks and parts challenges, prompting many repowers.
- Expect significant refit costs on older examples, from generator replacements and hull paint to teak renewals and window/AC/plumbing work.
- Performance varies with engine packages, so buyers must weigh original Detroit setups against Cat/MTU repowers.
Comparison with Other Models
| Model | LOA | Beam | Draft | Speed (Cruising/Max) | Gross Tonnage |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 58 Sportfisherman | 58' 0" (17.68 m) | 17' 0" (5.41 m) | 18' 10" (5.75 m) | 31 kn / 37 kn | - |
| Carolina Custom | 46' 0" (14.02 m) | 15' 0" (4.57 m) | - | - | - |
| CC | 28' 0" (8.53 m) | 9' 0" (2.87 m) | 16' 11" (5.17 m) | - | - |
| 61 Convertible | 17' 0" (5.21 m) | 17' 0" (5.21 m) | 18' 7" (5.67 m) | - | - |
| 34 CC | 34' 0" (10.36 m) | 10' 0" (3.20 m) | 9' 7" (2.92 m) | - | - |
| 52 Sport Express Fish | 52' 0" (15.85 m) | 15' 0" (4.57 m) | 14' 9" (4.50 m) | 30 kn / 40 kn | - |
| N/A | 48' 0" (14.63 m) | 16' 0" (4.88 m) | 14' 3" (4.33 m) | 30 kn | - |

Learn more on the “BUDDY DAVIS - 61 Convertible”
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