PRICE $35,000 USD
The 1979 Ericson Independence 31 was designed by the renowned Bruce King, this cruiser-racer was built by Ericson Yachts from 1977 to 1981 and has earned a well-deserved reputation for its seaworthiness. Engineered for comfort and stability, the Independence 31 features a transom-hung rudder and a modified full keel with a cutaway forefoot. This innovative design not only enhances its tracking capabilities but also minimizes the need for constant helm adjustments, ensuring a smoother sailing experience, especially on extended passages. Sailors will appreciate how this vessel performs in various conditions, from heavy weather to light winds.
The layout is traditional with the use of warm teak throughout the cabin, combined with bronze-opening-port lights and large hatches for extra ventilation. Unlike many of its performance-oriented vessels, the Independence 31 prioritizes storage for long-term provisioning, offering deep lockers and shelving behind the settees. The galley is to port and is equipped with a 2-burner stove with oven, an isotherm refrigerator/freezer (new compressor and cooling plate) and all new plumbing with new foot pumps and faucets for both fresh and salt water as well as a 12v pressure pump. Located on the starboard is the navigation station meticulously organized and fully equipped with all you need. The salon features two settees with the starboard converting to a double berth for extra guests. Going forward to starboard is the ensuite head with a rebuilt manual Baby Blakes toilet, with rebuilt black water tank & macerator pump with spares. The plumbing and seacocks are new, and the headliner in the head was redone. A privacy door separates the forward cabin from the salon, leading to a cozy double berth with a spacious hanging locker and ample storage throughout. For enhanced energy efficiency, the interior lighting has been upgraded to LED fixtures.
Powering this vessel is a well-maintained Beta Marine 25hp diesel engine, which was replaced in 2019 and is complemented by a new 75A/h alternator. The sail inventory includes a fully battened mainsail in good condition, a headsail with roller furling also in good condition, and a hank-on staysail that is in acceptable condition. Notably, all standing rigging was replaced in 2019, while the running rigging was updated just 1.5 years ago. The Bob stays on the bowsprit were recently replaced in 2024.
S/V Penumbra has been meticulously cared for and recently outfitted with numerous unique features and enhancements, ensuring it is ready for cruising. Some of these upgrades include:
- Pro Mariner 15A/h shore power charger
- 400 watts solar and a 220ah lithium battery system
- Renogy Bluetooth MPPT/DC-DC charger (30A/h)
- All seacocks replaced with bronze Groco, including backing blocks and hoses
- Refit deckheads with 20mm closed-cell insulation
- Updated calorifier for hot water from engine (6 gallons) with shower attachment accessible from the cockpit
- Swages replaced on steering terminations on emergency tiller
- Bilge system complete rebuild, 3 pumps total, high water alarm (whale gusher hand pump & 2 rule pumps, seaflo switches for manual or auto.
- Bowsprit mounting bolts replaced - through deck
The current owner has produced several informative walk-through videos available on YouTube, showcasing the layout and systems onboard. The S/V Penumbra is well equipped, turn key and ready to go now!
