The Nelson 40 Vagabond is a fine example of the classic Nelson design — a solid, semi-displacement cruiser renowned for its exceptional sea-keeping abilities and timeless lines.
Built in 1972 with GRP construction, Vagabond combines strength and practicality with the unmistakable elegance of John Askham’s design.
Measuring 39.37ft (12m) in length with a beam of 11.97ft (3.65m) and a shallow 1m draft, Vagabond offers both stability and versatility, equally at home exploring sheltered rivers or venturing into coastal waters. Her displacement of 12,000kg ensures a comfortable and confident ride in all conditions.
Powered by twin Cummins V-504-M diesel engines, each producing 180hp, Vagabond delivers reliable performance and reassuring handling. She’s fitted with a 12V ship system and 240V shore power, supported by professional and modern Victron equipment.
Fuel and water capacities are generous — 1800L of fuel and 400L of fresh water, providing excellent endurance for longer cruising.
Whilst Vagabond is conventionally a commercial work boat, and comes from the Trinity House fleet of pilot boats, below deck, she offers accommodation for four with four single berths, a practical galley complete with gas oven, sink, and fridge, and a manual sea toilet in the heads. The Autoterm diesel heating system keeps the interior warm and comfortable in all seasons.
Navigation and electronics include Raytheon RL70 Pathfinder Radar, Garmin Fish Finder, Garmin Chartplotter, and ICOM IC M503 VHF, ensuring you’re well equipped for safe and confident cruising.
On deck, she comes well prepared with fenders, warps, boathook, anchor, and chain, while manual and electric bilge pumps and fire extinguishers provide essential safety.
Beautifully maintained and ready for her next adventure, Vagabond represents a wonderful opportunity to acquire a true classic with proven pedigree and character.
For more information or to arrange a viewing, please contact Dean & Holland on 01702 599018 or marcus@deanandholland.com.
| Make | Nelson |
|---|---|
| Model | 40 |
| Vessel Name | Vagabond |
| Length (LOA) | 39.37 ft/12M |
| Beam | 11.97 ft/3.65M |
| Draft | 3 ft |
| Construction Material | GRP |
| Displacement | 12000KG |
| Vessel Type | Power |
| Year Built | 1972 |
| Engine Make & Model | Cummins V-504-M |
| Number of engines | 2 |
| Current location | Rochford, Essex |
| Country | United Kingdom |
Construction – GRP
Underwater Profile – Semi Displacement
LOA – 39.37 ft/12M
Beam – 11.97 ft/3.65M
Draft – 1M
Displacement – 12,000 KG
Year of Construction – 1972
Twin Inboard Engines
Cummins V-504-M
180HP Per Side
Diesel
12 V Ships system
240V Shore Power System
Victron Energy Orion – TR 24 12-20
Victron Energy Blue Smart Charger
Fuel – 1800L
Water – 400L
4 Single berths
Galley: Gas Oven, Sink, Fridge.
Heads: Manual Sea Toilet
Autoterm Diesel Heating
Fenders
Warps
Boathook
Anchor & Chain
Electric bilge pumps
Manual bilge pumps
Fire extinguishers
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.
