1985 MetalCraft 44'

Price

$99,000

~ $739.mo

Explore Financing

Overall Length

44 ft

Location

Chesapeake Virginia United States

Category

Power

Year

1985

Name

SYLPHIDE

Fuel Tank Capacity

475 Gallons

Beam

12' 6"

LOA

44'

Cabin Count

2

Head Count

2

Fresh Water Capacity

158 Gallons

Engine

1985 Perkins Diesel 4.236M Inboard 85Hp 63Kw 2,729Hrs

Hull Material

Aluminum

Bridge Clearance

13' "

Description

Originally launched in 1985 as a bare platform, SYLPHIDE is a distinctive late-era build born from the collaboration between Kingston Aluminum Yachts and MetalCraft—just before the two unified under the MetalCraft Marine name. Designed by Avard Fuller as a private cruising vessel, she stands out as a rare offering from a builder renowned for uncompromising quality in high-demand environments. MetalCraft’s legacy is grounded in crafting high-performance patrol boats, fireboats, and military vessels engineered for extreme conditions. SYLPHIDE benefits directly from this pedigree, built to the same exacting standards of strength, durability, and seaworthiness that define the brand.

Her aluminum hull offers an ideal balance of efficiency and resilience, making her a dependable and economical choice for long-range cruising. In 1995, SYLPHIDE underwent a complete interior refit, transforming her into a highly functional and comfortable platform perfectly suited for extended journeys along the ICW, through locks and canals, and across inland waterways. She accommodates up to four guests in two private staterooms, each with its own head, while her low air draft—under 13 feet—allows for easy bridge clearance, a major advantage for serious cruisers.

Key Features:

Exceptionally Low Air Draft (~11–13 ft) – Effortlessly clears bridges, opening up unrestricted cruising along the ICW, canals, and inland waterways
All-Aluminum Hull Construction – Built from 5083 marine-grade aluminum to commercial standards for unmatched durability, corrosion resistance, and long-term structural integrity.
Proven Long-Range Efficiency – Single Perkins diesel cruises at 7 knots while burning approximately 1 GPH, delivering an impressive 1,500 NM range.
Complete Interior Refit (1995) – Thoughtfully redesigned for practical liveaboard and cruising comfort with a functional two-stateroom, two-head layout.
Rare Pedigree from MetalCraft Marine – One of very few private yachts built by a renowned commercial and military builder, combining rugged capability with distinctive presence.

United Yacht Sales is pleased to assist you in the purchase of this vessel. This boat is centrally listed by Worth Avenue Yachts. It is offered as a convenience by this broker/dealer to its clients and is not intended to convey direct representation of a particular vessel

Originally launched in 1985 as a bare platform, SYLPHIDE is a distinctive late-era build born from the collaboration between Kingston Aluminum Yachts and MetalCraft—just before the two unified under the MetalCraft Marine name. Designed by Avard Fuller as a private cruising vessel, she stands out as a rare offering from a builder renowned for uncompromising quality in high-demand environments. MetalCraft’s legacy is grounded in crafting high-performance patrol boats, fireboats, and military vessels engineered for extreme conditions. SYLPHIDE benefits directly from this pedigree, built to the same exacting standards of strength, durability, and seaworthiness that define the brand.

Her aluminum hull offers an ideal balance of efficiency and resilience, making her a dependable and economical choice for long-range cruising. In 1995, SYLPHIDE underwent a complete interior refit, transforming her into a highly functional and comfortable platform perfectly suited for extended journeys along the ICW, through locks and canals, and across inland waterways. She accommodates up to four guests in two private staterooms, each with its own head, while her low air draft—under 13 feet—allows for easy bridge clearance, a major advantage for serious cruisers.

Key Features

Exceptionally Low Air Draft (~11–13 ft) – Effortlessly clears bridges, opening up unrestricted cruising along the ICW, canals, and inland waterways
All-Aluminum Hull Construction – Built from 5083 marine-grade aluminum to commercial standards for unmatched durability, corrosion resistance, and long-term structural integrity.
Proven Long-Range Efficiency – Single Perkins diesel cruises at 7 knots while burning approximately 1 GPH, delivering an impressive 1,500 NM range.
Complete Interior Refit (1995) – Thoughtfully redesigned for practical liveaboard and cruising comfort with a functional two-stateroom, two-head layout.
Rare Pedigree from MetalCraft Marine – One of very few private yachts built by a renowned commercial and military builder, combining rugged capability with distinctive presence.

Boarding SYLPHIDE is easily accomplished via port or starboard gates, leading to wide, full walkaround decks. Underfoot, updated 3M nonskid decking provides secure footing, while a combination of aluminum and stainless-steel stanchions with vinyl-wrapped lifelines guide you safely forward to the bow. The foredeck is equipped with a sturdy aluminum pulpit and ground tackle, reinforcing the vessel’s purposeful, seagoing design.

Aft, the raised cockpit is both functional and inviting—protected by a newer Bimini top and thoughtfully arranged with removable seating, a teak table, and built-in propane storage integrated beneath bench seating. The transom leads to a teak swim platform via a boarding ladder, and a simple block-and-tackle davit system facilitates tender handling. The AB Inflatable tender is currently kept on its own lift at the dock and is shown separately in the photos.

Entering the cabin from the aft deck, you descend a few steps into a warm and practical interior finished with teak and ash sole throughout. The main salon offers a comfortable living space with a settee, built-in storage, and a high-low table that can be adjusted for dining or casual use. Large windows provide natural light and excellent visibility.

The galley is located to port in an efficient L-shaped configuration, featuring ample counter space, drawers, and lockers for extended cruising. Opposite to starboard is additional storage and systems access, arranged with functionality in mind.

Forward of the salon, the guest accommodations are well laid out for privacy and comfort. A forward stateroom offers a V-berth with storage, opening portlights, and an overhead hatch. Just aft of the stateroom, a separate stall shower is located to port, with an enclosed head to starboard—both featuring proper ventilation and practical finishes. Additional storage, a hanging locker, and a small desk/navigation area enhance the usability of this forward section.

The master stateroom aft is accessed via a separate companionway and features a centerline queen berth, generous drawer storage, hanging lockers, and built-in bedside cabinetry. Multiple opening portlights and an overhead hatch provide excellent natural light and ventilation. The ensuite head includes a vanity, sink, and additional storage, completing a comfortable and private owner’s space.

Climate control is provided via two zone reverse-cycle heat and air conditioning supplemented by a separate furnace heat system- making SYLPHIDE well-suited for a variety of cruising environments.