This 1970 Hatteras 45 Sportfish is a classic project boat waiting for a new owner to complete her refit. With strong 2002 Detroit 6V92 550hp engines and a solid fiberglass hull, she offers a rare opportunity to own a legendary sportfisherman at a fraction of the finished value. Currently located in Saint Pete Beach, Florida, this vessel is priced to sell quickly.
This Hatteras is perfect for a buyer who enjoys DIY projects and has knowledge of boat electrical systems. The layout suits anglers looking for a serious sportfishing platform without the premium price. Families can also use her for weekend cruises once the interior is refreshed.
Is the 1970 Hatteras 45 Sportfish for Sale?
Yes, this 1970 Hatteras 45 Sportfish is currently offered for sale through its listing broker. The boat is located in Saint Pete Beach, Florida, and is being marketed as a project boat for a buyer who wants to complete a refit. Because classic Hatteras 45 Sportfish models retain a loyal following, well-priced project examples tend to attract attention quickly, and this vessel is priced to sell.
For buyers, availability is less important than the condition of the specific boat. Engine hours, the 2002 Detroit 6V92 installation, generator condition, hull condition, electrical systems, and the extent of remaining work should all be reviewed. A boat that needs cosmetic and minor electrical repairs will require careful inspection, and the seller has already started the project, so verifying what is included and what needs to be finished is essential.
1970 Hatteras 45 Sportfish Price
The asking price for this 1970 Hatteras 45 Sportfish is $42,992, which represents a low entry cost into large sportfisherman ownership. This price reflects the boat's project status and leaves room for the buyer's investment in completing the refit. Asking prices are subject to change and should not be treated as confirmed transaction values.
The purchase price is only part of the budget for a 55-year-old diesel sportfisherman that needs work. Buyers should also account for a professional survey, haul-out, bottom paint, insurance, dockage, fuel, engine servicing, generator maintenance, and the cost of cosmetic and electrical repairs. The 6V92 engines are known for durability but require regular maintenance, and fuel burn at cruising speed is significant, typical for vessels of this size. Historically, well-maintained Hatteras hold value, and completing the refit can yield a strong return on investment.
Performance and Propulsion
This Hatteras 45 Sportfish is powered by 2002 Detroit 6V92 550hp two-stroke turbo engines that provide reliable power for offshore fishing trips. The 6V92 is a well-known diesel engine with a long history in sportfishing applications, known for durability but requiring regular maintenance to stay in top condition.
The 2002 engines are newer than the hull, which is a significant advantage for a project boat of this age. Actual speed and fuel consumption depend on load, sea conditions, propeller condition, and hull maintenance, so a sea trial should be used to verify the performance of the individual boat. Fuel burn at cruising speed is significant, typical for vessels of this size, so a realistic operating budget is essential.
Exterior Design and Construction
This 1970 Hatteras 45 Sportfish features a solid fiberglass hull and a spacious salon and large cockpit area that offer comfortable accommodations for fishing and cruising. The hull is described as sound, and with the bottom paint needed, there is room to negotiate effectively. Transducer upgrades and Shane marine air vents improve performance and comfort.
Buyers should inspect the hull and deck, stringers, bulkheads, running gear, shafts, propellers, rudders, through-hulls, fuel tanks, steering system, and any signs of water intrusion or previous structural repairs. The cockpit's rod holders, bait systems, tackle storage, fighting chair, outriggers, and other fishing equipment should also be tested, along with deck hardware, railings, and the bottom condition. A survey should focus on the structural integrity of the hull.
Interior and Accommodation
This 1970 Hatteras 45 Sportfish offers a spacious salon, plenty of closet space throughout the boat for extended stays, and a layout that suits anglers looking for a serious sportfishing platform without the premium price. Families can also use her for weekend cruises once the interior is refreshed. Cosmetic and minor electrical repairs are needed, making this an ideal project for a handy buyer.
Individual boats may have different upholstery, appliances, flooring, and interior finishes depending on subsequent refits. Buyers should inspect the galley equipment, refrigeration, air-conditioning, plumbing, bilge systems, and all accommodation spaces for condition and evidence of regular maintenance. The generous closet space and spacious salon are practical advantages for extended trips once the refit is complete.
What to Check Before Buying a 1970 Hatteras 45 Sportfish
Before making an offer, inspect the vessel in person and get a survey focusing on the structural integrity and engine condition. The survey should cover the hull and deck, stringers, bulkheads, running gear, shafts, propellers, rudders, through-hulls, fuel tanks, steering system, electrical equipment, generator, air-conditioning, plumbing, and bilge systems. The Mastec genset, approximately the same year as the engines, should be tested to confirm it fires up on demand. The cockpit's rod holders, bait systems, tackle storage, fighting chair, outriggers, and other fishing equipment should also be tested.
The 2002 Detroit 6V92 550hp engines should be inspected individually, including engine hours, service records, diagnostic reports, cooling systems, turbochargers, exhaust components, transmissions, shafts, and propellers. Buyers should also test navigation electronics, VHF radio, pumps, air-conditioning, and other onboard systems. The seller has started the project, so verify what is included and what needs to be finished, contact the broker for a showing, and request the full inventory of parts. This is a solid starter project for the right buyer.