For Sale: 1981 Ericson 38 "Mel's Angel" - Selling for "best offer"

[MelSnyder]

Selling my 1981 Ericson 38 on a "best offer" basis. It has a few cosmetic issues, but has a yard-maintained 32HP diesel that runs perfectly, a transmission with 5 hours on it (replaced transmission, propeller shaft, bearings and engine mounts in 2015, just before her final haul). But the reverse transom, after 38 years, needs to be Awlgripped, and there are some stains on the interior trunk cabin, a Benmar autopilot that needs service, and custom cotton velour upholstery that should be replaced (still have all the like-new extra fabric needed to replace it, if you don't have little kids).

But she has a fabulous Force 10 propane stove with 2 recertified/re-valved 10lb tanks, Datamarine Corinthian instruments with spares, an Adler-Barbour "Cold Machine" that tested to 13F, totally replaced fresh water and bilge pumps, big Motorola alternator, insulated backstay for ham radio, completely Aerex-foamcore replaced balsa in deck around mast and anchor well cover, and more. In 1998, replaced the problematic first-generation fuel and holding tanks; custom aluminum diesel tank with no tip near the bilge (part of first 50-boat design) and new rotationally molded polyethylene holding tank (early tanks had poor seams). Replaced Raritan heat-exchanged/shorepower hot water heater 2009. Even has the rare cockpit cushions! The boat is located in New Bedford, MA.

More interior photos at https://www.flickr.com/gp/melsnyder/745n9n

I'd planned to launch her in 2016, which then became 2017 as I played a bigger and bigger role in supporting my severely ill sister and her 24/7 aides. She passed away on Easter, and I've just lost any interest, and need to unload my beloved "Mel's Angel."

This is a strong boat - made the outside run to "The Ditch" and then to Miami and the Keys in November, 1984. USCG documented. I raised 2 kids from 6 months through college on her. You could do the same, if you submit the winning bid (will need to provide your bank details for validation, if you are high bid).

[geoleo]

What is the draft?

[MelSnyder]

Hello, Geoleo...

It's the 5' sheel (?) keel version.

[MelSnyder]

Interested? You can contact me at melsnyder at gmail, or at Eight-Six-Zero, Five-Seven-Five, Two Four Eight Eight.

[tuscan16]

How long has she been on the hard?

[MelSnyder]

Originally Posted by tuscan16

How long has she been on the hard?

3 years. Was diverted with care for a dying sister, then my partner’s getting a titanium hip. She has been shrink wrapped the whole time, until I stripped it off last week for cleaning. Engine starts beautifully, only damage is the wind speed cups on the masthead - apparent wind works fine.

Search for it on eBay - just listed it at midnight, opening bid $8000, buy it now $14,000. Lots more pix and info there. A guy on the Chesapeake contacted me about buying it and moving it in October and I said yes. So if you are seriously interested you have 6 days to act.