1957 RYBOVICH CONVERTIBLE

The 1957 Rybovich Convertible is a classic 44-foot sport fishing yacht built by Rybovich, a builder known for its traditional craftsmanship and custom-built fishing boats. This example combines a vintage mahogany hull with a later diesel propulsion system and a range of equipment designed for offshore sport fishing.

Despite its age, the yacht has received significant upgrades during its ownership history. The hull sides were stripped and reinforced with fiberglass and epoxy in 1996, while the teak cockpit, mechanical systems, electrical equipment, and interior have also been updated over time. This makes the boat particularly interesting to buyers looking for a classic Rybovich with modernized systems.

Is the 1957 Rybovich Convertible for Sale?

Yes. A 1957 Rybovich Convertible is currently listed for sale in Freeport, New York, with an asking price of US$150,000. The listing identifies it as a 44-foot sport fishing yacht with a wood hull and twin Cummins diesel engines.

The boat has reportedly been owned by the same owner for 45 years, which can be valuable when accompanied by comprehensive maintenance and upgrade records. Prospective buyers should nevertheless verify the ownership history, structural work, mechanical condition, and current survey findings rather than relying solely on the vessel's age or restoration history.

1957 Rybovich Convertible Price

The current asking price for this 1957 Rybovich Convertible is US$150,000. Its relatively accessible asking price compared with many larger modern sport fishing yachts reflects its age, classic wood construction, and vintage status, while the extensive upgrades may add practical value for a buyer seeking a ready-to-use classic fishing boat.

However, the purchase price should not be treated as the complete acquisition budget. A buyer should allow for a detailed marine survey, haul-out, potential wood-hull repairs, engine servicing, insurance, dockage, and ongoing maintenance. For a nearly 70-year-old wooden boat, future structural and cosmetic work can have a greater impact on ownership cost than the initial purchase price.

Performance and Propulsion

The yacht is powered by twin Cummins VT-555-M turbocharged V8 diesel engines, rated at 320 hp each, for a combined 640 hp. The listing reports approximately 750 original engine hours and a fuel consumption of about 22 gallons per hour at 23 knots and 2,550 rpm.

The propulsion system uses Twin Disc 506 transmissions with a 2.00:1 reduction ratio, Aquamet 22 stainless-steel shafts, and bronze struts. The yacht also has a 360-gallon fuel capacity, giving it the capability for offshore fishing and cruising, although actual range will depend on speed, sea conditions, load, and engine condition.

Exterior Design and Construction

The 1957 Rybovich Convertible retains the classic proportions associated with traditional sport fishing boats, including a dedicated cockpit, flybridge, fighting chair, tuna door, live bait wells, rod holders, and outriggers. The cockpit has a teak sole and covering boards, while the bridge uses varnished teak and includes a center control console and surrounding seating.

Its construction is particularly important to the boat's character and maintenance requirements. The hull is carvel-planked using Philippine mahogany over oak frames, with Monel fasteners and a double-planked bottom. In 1996, the hull sides were reinforced with fiberglass cloth and epoxy, while the bottom had previously received fiberglass protection.

Interior and Accommodation

The interior combines traditional varnished mahogany with practical cruising and fishing accommodations. The salon includes an L-shaped sofa, custom mahogany tables and cabinetry, air conditioning, entertainment equipment, and storage, while the galley is equipped with a refrigerator/freezer, microwave, sink, and cabinetry.

The yacht provides two guest cabins and one head. The master stateroom has upper and lower crossover berths and mahogany storage, while the forward stateroom provides V-berths. The head includes a separate shower stall, and the boat also has a 4-gallon water heater and pressurized hot and cold water system.

What to Check Before Buying a 1957 Rybovich Convertible

The most important consideration is the condition of the wooden hull and its structural components. A specialist wooden-boat surveyor should inspect the planking, frames, keel, chines, stringers, fasteners, stem, transom, deck structure, moisture levels, previous fiberglass or epoxy work, and areas around through-hulls. A haul-out and, where appropriate, targeted removal of coatings should be considered to identify hidden deterioration.

The twin Cummins engines should also be inspected individually, including compression or diagnostic testing where appropriate, cooling systems, exhaust, transmissions, shafts, struts, propellers, fuel systems, and maintenance records. Buyers should additionally test the generator, electrical system, bilge pumps, steering, navigation equipment, air conditioning, live bait systems, outriggers, fighting chair, and safety equipment before completing the purchase.