The Contessa 26, designed by Jeremy Rogers and based on the famous folkboat design is an undisputed classic. For more general information about the class just Google Contessa 26 and you will find all you could ever want. This particular example is very neglected and is in need of a full refit and refurbishment. It has been abandoned in our boatyard and is being sold to recover berthing debts owed to us. The boat will be sold free from all such berthing debts.We cannot answer detailed questions about the history of the boat as we are no longer in contact with the previous owner. The boat arrived here at Preston Marina in around 2006 and seemed to be in good condition at the time. It was then sold to the most recent owner who allowed the boat to fall into the neglected state she is in now. It is truly mystifying as to why some people would fail to look after their boats and let them get into this state - but that is what has happened here.I don't have time to attempt to give an overview of everything that would be required to restore her back to good condition - and I would strongly encourage arranging to view the boat prior to bidding, but here are some basic points;She had been afloat here for around 10 years - we lifted her from the water in December 2016. At the time there was a significant amount of water inside the boat - up to just under the floorboards. We have not taken the time to study where this water had got in.
The engine is not running - but turns over by hand. I think it is a Yanmar 2GM20 diesel inboard engine on a shaft drive.
There are some very good quality and relatively young fittings on the boat including some very nice Lewmar self-tailing winches and Furlex headsail furling equipment.
The timber gunwales have become damaged in places and will probably need replacing.
We don't know the condition of the sails - but I honestly don't think they have even been raised in the last 10 years, and they were OK when the boat arrived.
The cradle shown in the photos is not included with the boat.
The stated build year of 1969 is a guess - eBay requires a year to be stated.After purchase a 6 month period of HALF PRICE berthing (either afloat or ashore) here at Preston Marina is available to the buyer (this works out at £68.64 per month including VAT, with a minimum of a 6 month contract) - and we will also include a FREE launch into the water here at Preston Marina. All Preston Marina berth-holders get a discount from purchases from our chandlery, which may be helpful for the refit.If the boat is not to be berthed at Preston Marina after purchased it must be removed in its entirety from Preston Marina within 7 days of the completion of the sale.Cost of lifting the boat to HGV road transport (organised by buyer) including un-stepping the mast = £289 inc. VAT. We estimate the weight of the boat to be around 2.5 to 3 tons. Third party lifting is not permitted.The boat is sold as seen with no guarantees or warranties implied or offered. It is what it is. All bids are binding and you are bidding to buy the boat - so please view the boat before bidding. The sale must be completed in full within 5 days of the end of the auction.Viewing is available by prior arrangement 7 days per week from 10am - 4pm. Access is via a tall ladder. No under 16's may go aboard. Care must be taken and good non-slip footwear must be worn.
Please contact the Preston Marina office on 01772 733595.
I have found a YouTube video of the boat when she was in good condition, sailing on the Mersey filmed in 2006 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gCKe7wbfmc4&t=6s Berthing at Preston Marina is subject to Terms & Conditions - http://www.prestonmarina.co.uk/downloads/Preston%20Marina%20Terms%20&%20Conditions%20April%202014.pdf