BOAT OF THE MONTH: APRIL 2010

FOR SALE $185,000

One of the most sought-after cruisers of the Halvorsen fleet is the 36ft cruiser, which gained great popularity after its inception in 1948. With her elegant straight sheer hull and varnished cabin sides, the styling was a very successful evolution of Harold Halvorsen’s usual sleek lines. Twenty-seven were built, however, the last two were special 37-footers, the icing on the cake of this model.

The Salamander featured hereabouts, was launched on August 17, 1962, for a private buyer who was rather particular with many specific options. Unlike the standard layout of the 36, Salamander has a more graceful design with a private forward cabin, spacious head and shower, lower galley featuring sliding windows and a generous overhead hatch, all allowing for a more luxurious saloon than the hire-cruiser model.

Originally launched with twin Chrysler Ace petrol motors, a twin-diesel installation now provides safety and reliability expected by modern mariners.

The saloon has slightly higher headroom than normal, but the original cocktail bar and a dinette that seats six. Opposite, a pair of occasional chairs encourages elegant entertaining in the teak and Queensland-maple panelled interior. The portside helm station has a sliding side-door for convenient access to the laid teak decks when anchoring or mooring. The aft saloon doors are a clever bi-fold arrangement opening half the aft bulkhead on the starboard side, allowing flow-through from the covered cockpit. Canvas awnings enclose this cockpit area for all-weather use and there is a freezer cabinet under the bunk cushion.

VIEW THE WORLD
Entertaining is a big feature on Halvorsen cruisers, and the large picture windows and covered cockpit offer superb opportunities to sit back and watch the world peacefully slide by. A plump cushion, a cool drink and perhaps a fishing line will nestle the occupants into the peaceful river life that these cruisers have become famous for. Walkaround decks with secure handrails are perfect for safety and convenience. A swimming platform, varnished steps and a wide aft deck with handrail make boarding a pleasure.

The styling differs on Salamander from usual models, with the teak-framed cabin windows that admit more light and far better ventilation to the forward cabins. The galley is well equipped with eutectic refrigeration, gas stove and oven, and spacious bench areas for an ambitious chef.

The head and shower facilities have been recently refurbished with electric toilet, new basin and vanity, and fresh paintwork. The current owner has attended to all manner of upgrades to engineering, electrics, varnish and paintwork. The underwater sections of the hull are in remarkable condition for a 47-year-old ? enviable, in fact.

TWO OF A KIND
Salamander was never on the Halvorsen hire-fleet and, consequently, the interior joinery is mercifully free from damage. The originality of this boat and maintenance from several dedicated owners has seen her win many Halvorsen Club Concourse de Elegance awards.

Only two 37s were built and her sister ship was sold several months ago for in excess of $200,000, indicating the unfaltering demand from collectors for these stylish, practical and elegant cruisers.

HOW MUCH?
Salamander is for sale at $185,000 and available for inspection from the Cottage Point Boatshed, 1 Notting Lane, Cottage Point, NSW.

Specifications -
Halvorsen 37 Special Salamander

For Sale: $185,000
Build date: 1962
Type: Semi-displacement carvel planked Oregon hull
Length: 11.28 m
Waterline length: 10.7m
Beam: 3.35m
Draft: 0.9 m
Displacement: Approx 12 tons
Engines: 2 x Chrysler Nissan diesels
Rated HP: 135 (each)
Cruise speed: 8kts
Top speed: Approx 11kts
Details: Cottage Point Boatshed, 1 Notting Lane, Cottage Point, NSW. Phone (02) 9456 3563; 0407 61 4161 or visit www.cpboats.com.au

CREW’S VIEW
Halvorsens pretty much sell themselves, but Salamander is unique in that she is one of only two 37-footers built by the company. Beautifully maintained by several dedicated owners (including all manner of upgrades to engineering, electrics, varnish and paintwork from her current one), Salamander is a multi-award winner and a perfect entertainer with large picture windows and covered open cockpit. This 37 has managed to avoid the Halvorsen hire-fleet so, consequently, the interior joinery is free from damage. The sister ship sold for $200,000 recently and Salamander represents value at the For Sale price of $185,000.