Philip Rhodes 40 Centreboard Ketch INCREDIBLE HISTORY CLASSIC KETCH

With an incredible history and stunning looks, "Saona" is one of a kind! A centreboard ketch designed by Phillip Rhodes and built by Charles Lucas in Battery Point, Tasmania in 1936 for the manager of the new Cadbury chocolate factory in Claremont, TAS. With many stories of Soana's exploits, this vessel presents a true slice of maritime history. Rhodes' designs are famed for their ocean-going performance and Soana is no exception with a proven record under race conditions and presented for sale as an Australian Registered Ship.

Below decks, Soana presents a large open saloon area that features a functional galley immediately to port with a stainless-steel sink and a 2-burner gas stove. Forward is a large bench settee, as is mirrored on the starboard side, providing plenty of seating for at least 8, or two single berths. Midships features a beautiful centreboard case with brass fittings and a fold-up dinette on each side to service the settees. Twin single quarter berths flank each side, also providing simple access to the steering gear and tanks. The forward saloon houses a single berth to port and a large chart table to starboard. The forepeak is utilised as sail storage, the chain locker and a head to service the vessel, with a marine toilet on the aft bulkhead and a fold-down stainless steel basin to starboard.

Engine access is excellent, with the ability to remove all engine cover panels. Power comes from a 50hp Nanni, providing easy and economical cruising at 6 knots. Deck space above is excellent with wide uncluttered walkways and a protected cockpit. The aft cockpit features a modified windscreen and hard top, fitted by the second owner in 1942 which drew inspiration from the cab of a Chevrolet truck. This addition provides excellent protection from wind and rain while at the helm. With a broad range of navigation electronics, including a NEW B&G multifunction display, the helm is well equipped for extended cruising and passages with the added benefit of all sheets being controllable from the cockpit. With impressive, refurbished timber spars, sleek varnished cabin tops and original brass fittings and fixtures, the exterior of Saona is very impressive and presents in good order. A wide range of sails and NEW (2024) sail bags with lazy jacks make for a simple vessel to operate, although it may be somewhat deceiving with her presence on the water, easily handled short-handed with only a couple on board.

With an exceptional story to tell and its fascinating history, Saona is a very special vessel; from assisting in charting Tasmania's West Coast to winning her class in an Australian Three Peaks Yacht Race. Presenting in good condition with thoughtful modifications and upgrades, this vessel provides a great opportunity to own a piece of history.

To read about some of Saona's history, access the file in the specifications below.

Contact our professional sales team for more information or to schedule an inspection. Call Jack Allison on Call Seller or Jo Breen on Call Seller .

Derwent Boat Sales offers the information on this vessel including condition, in good faith as provided by the Owner/Vendor. While confident about the accuracy we cannot Guarantee or Warrant it but will assist any prospective purchaser verify this as part of the purchase process.