1970 Bristol 42 Offshore Trawler

Step aboard and you feel right away that this is a true small ship, not just a pleasure boat. The raised pilothouse gives you a commanding view forward, while the deep, secure cockpit aft is ideal for crabbing, setting prawn traps, or just relaxing out of the wind. Inside, the separation between the forward and aft cabins offers real privacy for two cruising couples, and the generous windows keep the saloon bright even on gray days. Storage is abundant in every direction—lockers, drawers, and deep bilges—making extended cruising realistic, not just aspirational. Her substantial rub rail and sturdy handholds all around invite you to move with confidence in a seaway.

A Bristol 42 Offshore Trawler shines in this region’s changeable conditions and tight cruising nooks. The full, protective hull form and high bow are reassuring when afternoon chop stacks up, yet her moderate draft and compact length let you slip into smaller coves and marinas others pass by. Dual helms are a real advantage when fog rolls in or showers send you inside, while the flybridge remains the best seat in the house for calm, sunny stretches. Generous tankage and efficient diesels match the longer runs between fuel docks common here, and the wide side decks simplify docking in strong crosswinds or currents.