1976 Formosa 45 Ketch

Standard features

Arthur Resnick the song writer of the classic Under the Boardwalk. She has had 3 owners. She was built in Formosa for the Island Trader Boat Company. He named her Bel Canto, I thought because he was a song writer, but actually it was because in a stiff breeze with all sails trimmed properly he rigging hums. She still does it today. I hope the new owner keeps the name.

Bel Canto is in sail away condition with a fully equipped galley, spare parts and safety equipment. She sports a clipper bow and a wineglass transom, a full keel, heavy displacement and enough storage to carry a years provisions. It has a large focsle with a bunk on one side and workbench on the other. Compartments for all the tools needed for long ocean voyages. It also is currently used as a computer room and has a full size hanging locker and storage area for the portable Cockpit table.

Aft of it, separated by a sliding door on the starboard side is the master cabin with a large pull out double bunk and opposing vanity table with mirror. There is significant storage under and above the bunk, with a long book rack and recessed area over the bunk for reading material, clock, etc.. There is also a full size hanging locker. In the port side is the head which can be entered from the master cabin or the main cabin area. It has a separate stand-up shower area and an updated attractive head facilities area with sink, storage cabinet, towel storage and medicine cabinet and a concealed safe. Throughout the interior there are overhead waterproof day/night solar/ battery powered fan assist vents.

Equipment: The master Cabin is separated from the main cabin by beautifully carved Teak doors. The entire inside of the vessel is appointed with teak trim, painted bulkhead and deck beam teak ceilings. It has a warm comforting feel.

She has excellent interior sound proofing. There are no engine/ diesel or bilge odors common with many boats. All of the tanks water, sewage, and diesel are new. Unheard of with modern boats, all fittings, tanks, plumbing and wiring are easily accessible. The main Cabin has a open airy feeling enhanced by excellent cross ventilation from the round ports, overhead clamshell hatch and unique Hershoff designed large opening spray / rain proof port windows all with screens.

Physically the vessel has no leaks above or below decks.. a miracle in itself for a boat of this age. All chainplates, shrouds and rigging including the masts an booms have been replaced with aluminum . All mast steps and Deck through holes are sealed. The cockpit teak was replaced 3 years ago. All areas of caulking are refreshed. There are three bilge pumps each with a separate water activated of float switch . The bilge is clean . The VHF radio is 4 years old with two remotes and MMSI capable. It has a old but still functional SSB radio. It has an excellent Zantrax 3 bank charger and 3000W Inverter. The battery banks can be switched to any service location as needed should one bank fail (house 1 and 2,Bow thruster bank and starter bank). Between the mizzen mast wind generator and the davit mounted solar panels, all electrical capacity needs are met while at sea.

Below Decks She hosts a very innovative water jet bow thruster. It is controlled from the steering pedestal. It produces over 200 Ft Pounds of thrust and is capable of spinning the boat 360 degrees in place. For a heavy full keel boat it makes maneuvering a dream. It is powered by a 24V motor with its own charger and battery bank. As it uses venturi ports there is no drag or fowling compliment as would be the case with propeller type thrusters.