1997 BERTRAM 60 Convertible

The 1997 Bertram 60 Convertible is a 60-foot fiberglass sportfishing yacht built for offshore fishing, cruising and extended stays aboard. The model combines a large cockpit, flybridge and tuna tower with a spacious interior, making it suitable for owners who want serious fishing capability without giving up the accommodation expected from a 60-foot motor yacht. One currently listed 1997 example measures 60 feet in length, has a 16.92-foot beam and weighs approximately 93,500 pounds dry.

The 1997 Bertram 60 Convertible was typically equipped with twin diesel inboard engines, with current listings showing Caterpillar 3412-series powerplants. The model's substantial hull, deep-V configuration and large fuel capacity support offshore operation, while the four-stateroom configuration found on one current example provides considerable overnight accommodation. Actual equipment and mechanical condition vary significantly between individual boats, especially after nearly three decades of use.

Is the 1997 Bertram 60 Convertible for Sale?

Yes. There are currently 1997 Bertram 60 Convertible examples advertised on the used-yacht market. One listing in Avalon, New Jersey is offered at $150,000, while another 1997 Bertram Convertible in Fort Lauderdale is listed at $399,000. The difference between these asking prices is substantial and reflects the very different mechanical conditions and equipment levels of the individual boats.

The $150,000 example is being sold in as-is condition and is described as a project boat because its port Caterpillar 3412C engine needs to be rebuilt. By comparison, the $399,000 example has had both engines rebuilt according to the listing and has received numerous additional upgrades and services. Buyers should therefore compare the condition and maintenance history of each individual 1997 Bertram rather than relying on the model year alone.

1997 Bertram 60 Convertible Price

Current asking prices provide a broad indication of the market for a 1997 Bertram 60 Convertible. The publicly listed examples currently range from approximately $150,000 to $399,000, with the lower-priced boat requiring significant mechanical work and the higher-priced example benefiting from engine rebuilds and extensive maintenance. These are asking prices rather than verified transaction prices.

When evaluating the price of a 1997 Bertram 60 Convertible, buyers should account for the cost of major systems that may require attention on a nearly 30-year-old yacht. Engine condition is particularly important, but generators, air-conditioning, electrical systems, fuel tanks, shafts, transmissions, electronics and the fiberglass structure can also materially affect the real ownership cost. A lower purchase price may therefore require a significantly larger refit budget.

Performance and Propulsion

The 1997 Bertram 60 Convertible was designed around twin diesel inboard propulsion. The current Avalon example is powered by two Caterpillar 3412C engines rated at 1,250 hp each, giving a combined rated output of approximately 2,500 hp. The listing reports around 6,000 engine hours, while the seller states that the port engine requires rebuilding.

The boat's large hull and substantial displacement are intended for offshore operation rather than lightweight, high-speed performance. The deep-V hull form is one of the important characteristics to evaluate during a sea trial, particularly for ride comfort, handling, vibration and tracking in different sea conditions. Buyers should verify actual engine output, cruising speed, fuel consumption and range on the specific boat because these figures depend heavily on engine condition, loading, propellers and hull condition.

Exterior Design and Construction

The 1997 Bertram 60 Convertible uses a fiberglass hull and a large offshore-oriented layout. The exterior centers around a spacious cockpit equipped for serious fishing, with features such as a large cockpit fish box, live well, bait preparation area, rod holders, tackle storage, transom door and saltwater and freshwater washdown systems. The current listings also show tuna towers, outriggers and additional fishing equipment.

The flybridge provides the primary elevated helm and includes helm seating and additional passenger seating, while the tuna tower provides a second control position for offshore fishing. Equipment varies between individual boats, but one current example includes Rupp outriggers, a fiberglass hardtop, tower controls, spreader lights and Costa Clear enclosure panels. Buyers should inspect the tower structure, attachment points, hardtop, rails, cockpit sole and deck for corrosion, water intrusion, cracks or previous repairs.

Interior and Accommodation

The interior of the 1997 Bertram 60 Convertible is designed to support both fishing trips and longer stays aboard. A current example has a salon with an L-shaped sofa, dinette, entertainment system and air conditioning, while the galley includes a sink, microwave, electric stove, refrigerator drawers and freezer storage. Teak-and-holly flooring and wood cabinetry give the interior a traditional motor-yacht appearance.

Accommodation varies somewhat between individual boats, but the current listings demonstrate layouts with multiple guest staterooms and heads. The Fort Lauderdale example is advertised with four staterooms and three heads, including a master with a large berth, a forward VIP and additional bunk rooms. The Avalon boat is listed with three guest staterooms, including a port-side master, forward bunk accommodation and a starboard bunk room.

What to Check Before Buying a 1997 Bertram 60 Convertible

Before purchasing a 1997 Bertram 60 Convertible, a professional marine survey and full mechanical inspection are essential. The twin Caterpillar engines should be inspected individually, including compression or other appropriate mechanical testing, service history, engine hours, cooling systems, exhaust components, turbochargers, fuel systems and transmissions. Generator condition, shaft seals, propellers, batteries, chargers, air-conditioning and hydraulic systems should also be checked because repairs on a 60-foot sportfisher can become expensive.

The hull and deck should be inspected for moisture intrusion, delamination, structural repairs and evidence of previous damage. The cockpit, tuna tower, outriggers, flybridge, fuel system and underwater gear deserve particular attention because they are heavily exposed to offshore use. On the $150,000 example currently listed, the seller explicitly identifies the port engine as requiring a rebuild, demonstrating why the mechanical inspection should be completed before determining whether the asking price represents a realistic acquisition cost.