1976 Formosa 51 – A True Bluewater Classic

Vintage Elegance. Built to Cross Oceans.

For those drawn to the romance of traditional sailing and the confidence of full-keel ocean cruisers, this Formosa 51 delivers both style and substance. Designed by the legendary William Garden and built by the Formosa Boat Building Co. in Taiwan, this vessel is part of a distinguished lineage — only about 100 Formosa 51s were constructed between 1972 and 1982, making this a rare and sought-after classic.

With her sweeping sheerline, bold bowsprit, and teak decks, the Formosa 51 is unmistakably a yacht built for adventure. Her heavy-displacement hull provides unmatched comfort at sea, and her ketch rig ensures versatile, balanced sailing in a wide range of conditions.

This 1976 model features:

    •    Robust Construction: Solid fiberglass hull, full keel, and a heavy displacement ideal for offshore voyaging

    •    Spacious Layout: Generous aft cabin, classic saloon with hand-crafted teak joinery, ample headroom throughout

    •    Seaworthy Rig: Traditional ketch rig with newer sails (details available), strong deck hardware, and wide side decks

    •    Proven Pedigree: Formosa 51s have circumnavigated the globe – a trusted platform for serious sailors

    •    Upgrades: (Insert any key updates – engine, rigging, solar, electronics, batteries, etc.)

Whether you’re planning your next ocean passage or seeking a charming liveaboard, this Formosa 51 represents a timeless blend of capability and character.

She’s ready for her next chapter. Are you?

FOR SALE – Legendary 1976 Formosa 51 Bluewater Cruiser

Timeless Beauty. Ocean-Proven Performance.

Step aboard this iconic Formosa 51, a rare opportunity to own a true classic among world-cruising yachts. Designed by naval architect William Garden and built by the Formosa Boat Building Co. in Taiwan, the Formosa 51 is a full-keeled, heavy-displacement ketch known for her rugged construction, traditional lines, and offshore capability.

Only approximately 100 Formosa 51s were ever built during a limited production run from 1972 to 1982, making this vessel not only a capable passage maker but also a collector's piece for those drawn to timeless craftsmanship and legendary design.

This 1976 model has stood the test of time, boasting the hallmark clipper bow, sweeping sheer line, and a stately teak interior that speaks to an era when yachts were built with soul. She features a spacious center cockpit layout, ample headroom, and generous accommodations – perfect for liveaboard cruising or extended ocean passages.

Highlights:

    •    Designer: William Garden

    •    LOA: 51 ft | LWL: 39 ft | Beam: 14.6 ft | Draft: 6.0 ft

    •    Displacement: Approx. 38,000 lbs

    •    Engine: 

    •    Rig: Ketch, with classic lines and steady offshore performance

    •    Interior: Rich teak joinery, multiple cabins, workshop/nav station, full galley

    •    Upgrades: 

Whether you’re dreaming of crossing oceans, living aboard in comfort, or simply owning a piece of nautical history, this Formosa 51 offers the rare combination of heritage, seaworthiness, and classic beauty.

Motivated seller. Bring offers.

More pictures coming soon. . .

Dimensions & Weight

Nominal Length:

51 ft

LOA:

51 ft

Beam:

14.58 ft

Draft - max:

6 ft

Engine

Make:

Ford Lehman

Model:

2715E at 120 HP

Engine(s):

1

Horsepower:

120

Tank Capacities

Fuel Tank:

320 gallon - 1 tank(s)

Fresh Water Tank:

300 gallon - 1 tank(s)

Accommodations