Overview
About this vessel
Gavia Arctica is a vessel with a storied past and a legacy of adventure. Designed by Kelly Patterson and built by Formosa Yachts, its plans were famously modified, leading to the creation of the Formosa 46. Purchased as a live-aboard in Seattle in 1998, it underwent extensive renovations, including deck repairs, rigging replacement, and mast reinforcement. Further upgrades in Ecuador, New Zealand, and Malaysia ensured its seaworthiness.
With over 50 years of ocean sailing experience, the owner praises its speed, safety, and comfort, ideal for single-handed navigation. The yacht features a mast with 2 spreaders, internal reinforcement at the winches, and is equipped with a trysail track and running backstays. The stern tube has been replaced with fiberglass, original being stainless steel which was a problem in these models. The rigging was replaced in New Zealand with sturdy 10mm 1/19 stainless steel rigging.
The Ford Lehman 4 cylinder engine received a fresh water cooled rebuild in 2014–2016, with water lift silencer and shut off valves on the exhaust and water injection point. The vessel is now offered for sale due to aging owners, awaiting its next chapter ready to inspire new adventures on the open seas.
