1958 RYBOVICH

The 1958 Rybovich is a classic American sportfishing yacht built by Rybovich, a legendary Palm Beach builder known for its handcrafted wooden boats. The 54-foot Yachtfish “RHINO” is particularly rare, with only five Rybovich Yachtfish models reportedly built. Originally launched in 1958, this example has undergone an extensive modern restoration while retaining its historic character.

The yacht combines traditional craftsmanship with modern propulsion, navigation, and onboard systems. With a classic sportfishing cockpit, three-stateroom accommodation, varnished mahogany joinery, and modernized mechanical systems, the 1958 Rybovich is aimed at buyers who value collectability, craftsmanship, offshore fishing capability, and classic-yacht character rather than simply owning the newest technology.

Is the 1958 Rybovich for Sale?

Yes. The 1958 Rybovich 54 Yachtfish “RHINO” is currently listed for sale in Kent Island Estates, Maryland, with an asking price of US$1,599,000. The yacht is marketed as a restored classic and remains available through the brokerage market at the time of writing.

There is also another 1958 Rybovich Sportfisherman, the 42-foot “BLUE FIN IV,” currently listed at US$299,000. This illustrates how significantly prices can vary among surviving Rybovich yachts according to size, model, restoration quality, equipment, and provenance.

1958 Rybovich Price

The 54-foot Yachtfish “RHINO” is currently asking US$1.599 million. Its price reflects more than its age or basic specifications: the yacht is one of only five Yachtfish models built and has received a major two-year, stem-to-stern restoration by Michael Rybovich. The current listing describes it as a rare example combining historic pedigree with modern systems and performance.

Buyers should therefore evaluate a 1958 Rybovich as a classic yacht and collectible asset rather than comparing it directly with contemporary 54-foot sportfishing boats. Restoration quality, original craftsmanship, documentation, maintenance history, structural condition, and the reputation of the restoration yard can have a major influence on value.

Performance and Propulsion

The 1958 Rybovich 54 Yachtfish is powered by twin Cummins QSM11-715 HO diesel engines, each producing 715 hp. The engines were installed in 2013, and the current listing reports approximately 1,940 hours on the engines. The propulsion system uses direct drive, providing a total rated output of 1,430 hp.

According to the current specifications, the yacht has a cruising speed of approximately 25 knots and a maximum speed of about 30 knots. This is notable for a classic wooden sportfisherman and demonstrates how the modernized propulsion system complements the original hull design. Actual performance should still be verified during a sea trial because loading, sea conditions, propeller condition, and engine performance can affect real-world results.

Exterior Design and Construction

The 1958 Rybovich 54 retains the distinctive proportions and handcrafted appearance associated with classic Rybovich sportfishing yachts. The exterior features a traditional sportfishing cockpit, varnished mahogany details, teak decking, and a bridge deck with a centerline helm. The cockpit is equipped for serious offshore fishing, including bait freezers, a livewell, tackle center, and Eskimo ice maker.

The hull construction reflects traditional wooden boatbuilding, with double-planked mahogany over fir or cedar, bronze fastenings, and white-oak framing. The current “RHINO” underwent a major restoration intended to preserve the original craftsmanship while improving reliability and watertight integrity. For a yacht of this age, the quality and documentation of previous structural work are particularly important.

Interior and Accommodation

The interior of the 1958 Rybovich 54 combines classic yacht styling with updated modern equipment. The three-stateroom arrangement includes a full-beam aft master cabin with a private head and direct cockpit access, while additional guest accommodation is positioned amidships and crew quarters are located forward.

The salon features traditional mahogany joinery, an L-shaped settee, and a custom hi-low table, while the galley and dinette retain the classic Rybovich aesthetic alongside modern appliances. The air-conditioned bridge deck combines a varnished mahogany helm with classic gauges and modern Garmin navigation equipment, creating a balance between heritage and contemporary usability.

What to Check Before Buying a 1958 Rybovich

A professional marine survey is particularly important when buying a wooden yacht of this age. The inspection should focus on the hull structure, frames, planking, fasteners, keel, stringers, transom, deck, moisture levels, previous repairs, and areas where wood may have experienced rot or water intrusion. Buyers should also request complete documentation for the recent restoration and identify exactly which structural and mechanical components were replaced or rebuilt.

The mechanical systems should be inspected separately, including both Cummins engines, transmissions, shafts, propellers, generator, electrical systems, fuel tanks, plumbing, air conditioning, steering, and navigation equipment. A professional sea trial should verify engine performance, vibration, steering response, cruising speed, and onboard systems. For a collectible Rybovich, buyers should also review restoration records, provenance, ownership history, and evidence that replacement work has preserved rather than compromised the yacht's original character.