1980 Dickerson Center Cockpit Ketch
$49,000
Boat in Oriental, NC 28571 US
Built in 1980
Center Cockpit Ketch
1 Engine (Yanmar)
41 feet
Diesel
Fiberglass/Reinforced
Compass Rose is a classic Dickerson 41 Center Cockpit Ketch, a respected bluewater cruising sailboat known for its solid construction, comfortable offshore motion, and handcrafted interior finish. Dickerson yachts have long been admired by experienced sailors for their robust build quality and seaworthy designs, making them a favorite among those planning coastal cruising, extended passagemaking, or liveaboard sailing.
Compass Rose comes ready to cruise with a Highfield UL290 (9'6") RIB dinghy purchased in 2021, paired with a Tohatsu 9.8 HP 2-stroke outboard (purchased new in 2020) and a 5-gallon fuel tank-a reliable and capable tender package that makes anchoring out and exploring shorelines simple.
What makes this vessel particularly notable is that only 19 Dickerson 41 Center Cockpit Ketches were ever built, making this a rare and distinctive cruising yacht. For sailors who appreciate traditional craftsmanship and proven offshore designs, Compass Rose represents an opportunity to own a vessel that stands apart from more commonly produced production boats. Limited production numbers often reflect the boutique nature of builders like Dickerson-yards that focused on quality, custom details, and durable construction rather than mass production. For many buyers, this rarity adds to the appeal, offering a yacht with character, pedigree, and a reputation among serious cruisers.
Below decks, Compass Rose features a warm and inviting interior finished in classic teak cabinetry with a teak and holly sole, complemented by painted bulkheads in the traditional Herreshoff style, which keeps the cabin bright while maintaining the feel of a finely crafted yacht. The layout includes approximately 6'6" headroom in the main salon, a forward guest stateroom, convertible dinette with sea berths, a navigation station, and a practical U-shaped sea galley with generous storage and counter space.
A key feature of the design is the center cockpit with private aft owner's cabin, providing both comfort and privacy for extended cruising. The protected cockpit with enclosure offers excellent visibility and shelter underway or at anchor.
Rigged as a ketch with deck-stepped aluminum spars, Compass Rose carries a versatile sail plan that is well balanced and manageable for short-handed sailing while offering the flexibility and sail combinations that many offshore sailors appreciate.
Highlighted Equipment & Features
Electronics & Navigation
Garmin GPSMAP chartplotter with AIS target display
Raymarine Evolution autopilot (installed 2022)
Raymarine wind, depth, and speed instruments
Standard Horizon VHF with AIS receiver
Icom M802 SSB radio system
Island Time onboard WiFi system
EPIRB mounted near companionway
Electrical & Power
- NEW starter battery
Three adjustable solar panels with MPPT controller
Balmar high-output alternator with programmable regulator
House battery bank with dedicated start battery
Shore power with battery charger
Galley
Waeco ColdMachine refrigeration (new 2022)
Shipmate 3-burner gimbaled stove with oven
Double stainless steel sinks with water filtration system
Deck & Ground Tackle
Rocna 33 (75 lb) primary anchor with chain
Delta secondary anchor
Lewmar electric windlass with helm and foredeck controls
Cockpit enclosure (new 2022)
Custom cockpit table and cushions
Martek dinghy davits
Rail-mounted grill
Rigging & Sail Inventory
Ketch rig with deck-stepped aluminum spars
Standing rigging and chainplates replaced in 2009
Harken headsail furler
Lewmar self-tailing primary winches
Fully battened mainsail, genoa, high-cut jib, mizzen, and mizzen staysail
Mechanical & Systems
Spectra Ventura modular watermaker system
Dripless PSS shaft seal
Racor fuel filtration system
Dual Raritan marine heads
Automatic fire suppression system in engine room
Tender Package
Highfield UL290 RIB dinghy (2021)
Tohatsu 9.8 HP 2-stroke outboard (2020)
5-gallon fuel tank
Compass Rose represents a well-equipped offshore-capable cruising ketch with the build quality and thoughtful design that have made Dickerson yachts highly respected among experienced sailors. With only a small number of these vessels ever built, she offers the opportunity to own a distinctive and capable cruising yacht with a reputation for durability and traditional craftsmanship. Showings are by appointment im Oriental, NC. Call today to make this rare and beautiful sailboat part of your next cruising dream.
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As an added bonus this boat has an extensive inventory of valuable items available to it's next owner upon request at no additional charge. Among this inventory are included spare parts, various hardware, safety equipment, navigational charts & software. Please inquire about specifics if interested.
The Company offers the details of this vessel in good faith but cannot guarantee or warrant the accuracy of this information nor warrant the condition of the vessel. A buyer should instruct his agents, or his surveyors, to investigate such details as the buyer desires validated. This vessel is offered subject to prior sale, price change, or withdrawal without notice.
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 3/19/26 | Initial price | $49,000 |
Overview from around the web 1980 Dickerson Center Cockpit Ketch
Customers praise the 1980 Dickerson Center Cockpit Ketch for its sturdy construction and classic design, highlighting its spacious cockpit and comfortable accommodations
Many appreciate the vessel's solid sailing performance and easy handling, making it ideal for both coastal cruising and extended voyages. Owners often note the quality craftsmanship typical of Dickerson yachts, as well as the ample storage and well-thought-out layout that enhances onboard living. Overall, feedback reflects a strong satisfaction with the boat's durability, seaworthiness, and timeless appeal.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 1980 Dickerson Center Cockpit Ketch is a classic cruising sailboat known for its solid construction and traditional design. Here are some pros and cons to consider:
Pros
Sturdy Build: Dickerson Yachts are renowned for their robust fiberglass construction, offering durability and longevity.
Center Cockpit Design: Provides excellent visibility and a secure, comfortable helm position, enhancing safety especially in rough seas.
Ketch Rig: Offers versatile sail plan options, making it easier to balance the boat and handle sails in varying wind conditions.
Spacious Interior: Typically features a well-laid-out cabin with ample headroom and comfortable living space for extended cruising.
Good Storage: Designed with plenty of storage compartments, ideal for long voyages.
Seaworthy: Known for solid handling and stability, making it suitable for offshore passages.
Cons
Older Design: Being a 1980 model, some design elements may feel dated compared to modern sailboats.
Maintenance Required: As with any vessel of this age, ongoing maintenance and potential upgrades to systems and equipment may be necessary.
Weight: Heavier displacement can result in slower speeds compared to lighter, more performance-oriented sailboats.
Limited Performance: The ketch rig and traditional hull shape prioritize comfort and safety over speed and agility.
Space Efficiency: While spacious, the center cockpit layout can sometimes reduce available interior space compared to aft cockpit designs.
Made For
The 1980 Dickerson Center Cockpit Ketch is ideal for sailors seeking a sturdy, classic cruising sailboat with ample space and versatility. It is perfect for those who appreciate traditional design paired with reliable performance, making it well-suited for extended coastal cruising, liveaboard lifestyles, or adventurous voyages. With its spacious cockpit and comfortable interior layout, this ketch appeals to families, couples, or seasoned sailors looking for a dependable vessel that combines functionality and timeless style.
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Meet the Broker
Address
Boat Location
Contact McCotters Marina about 1980 Dickerson Center Cockpit Ketch
179 McCotter's Marina Rd, Washington, NC, 27889
Contact McCotters Marina
179 McCotter's Marina Rd, Washington, NC, 27889
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