2001 Beneteau 473 WINDNSEA: A Well-Equipped Cruiser Ready for Adventure

Comfort and Upgrades Define This Popular Beneteau 473 Model

The 2001 Beneteau 473 WINDNSEA stands out as a meticulously maintained and upgraded sailing yacht, perfectly suited for those seeking a safe and comfortable vessel to explore distant shores. This two-cabin, two-head version of the popular Beneteau 473 has been cared for by knowledgeable owners with extensive cruising experience along the East Coast and the Bahamas, ensuring that it is ready for any adventure on the open water.

WINDNSEA features a range of recent upgrades that enhance both safety and comfort. Notable improvements include a reverse cycle heat and air conditioning system with soft start, completely overhauled in 2025, and the addition of a macerator pump for overboard waste disposal where permitted. The vessel has seen replacement of several thru-hulls, a new high-output Balmar alternator, dripless shaft seal, and cutlass bearing, as well as servicing of the heat exchanger. Electronics have been modernized with new B&G systems, including a radar with send and receive AIS functionality, and a cockpit handheld radio. The rigging was inspected and serviced in 2024, complemented by a new Profurl furling headsail system installed in 2023.

The yacht’s accommodations reflect thoughtful design and comfort. The main salon boasts a U-shaped settee with a convertible table and bench seating, alongside a large straight settee, all upholstered with removable and washable cushions. The traditional cherry wood interior offers ample storage and easy access to mechanical systems. Forward and aft cabins provide generous headroom and comfortable berths, with custom memory foam mattresses and plenty of storage. Both cabins feature 12V fans and multiple hatches and portlights for ventilation and natural light. The galley is well-equipped with a large double sink, a Force 10 propane three-burner stove and oven, and a Frigoboat keel-cooled refrigerator/freezer system installed in 2021.

The hull and deck construction combine solid fiberglass with an internal grid liner and balsa sandwich deck for stiffness and insulation. The shoal draft cast iron keel allows for a 5’7″ draft, making the boat ICW friendly with a 60-foot air draft. Deck equipment includes a large anchor locker, Simpson Lawrence electric windlass with 300 feet of chain, and a 25-kg Rocna primary anchor. Safety and convenience features such as stainless steel stanchions with double lifelines, teak toe rails refinished in 2024, and Seablaze underwater lights installed in 2022 enhance the vessel’s appeal. A custom stainless steel arch supports a 720-watt solar array and dinghy davits, with a 10’6″ AB inflatable dinghy and Honda 15HP outboard included. The cockpit is spacious with twin helms, teak inlays, varnished teak table, and Sunbrella canvas bimini and dodger, complemented by new cushions and covers from 2022.

Sail handling is optimized for ease and safety, with all lines led aft to the cockpit for solo sailing. The standing rigging features Harkin blocks and hardware, inspected and tuned in 2024. The sail inventory includes a Neil Pryde in-mast furling mainsail and furling 130% genoa, both in excellent condition, along with a spinnaker and additional spare sails. Electric Lewmar winches provide efficient sail control at the helm and companionway.

Powering WINDNSEA is a Westerbeke 63C four-cylinder diesel engine with approximately 2,520 hours, complemented by a ZF transmission and a 62-gallon diesel tank under the aft berth. The propulsion system benefits from recent maintenance including a new tachometer, dripless shaft seal, cutlass bearing, and a three-blade Max Prop feathering propeller installed in 2022. Electrical systems are robust, featuring a 3500W Predator gasoline portable generator/inverter, AGM house batteries, and a Victron energy system with solar charging capabilities. A Spectra Ventura 150 watermaker installed in 2020 supports extended cruising autonomy.

This 2001 Beneteau 473 WINDNSEA offers a compelling package for sailors seeking a well-maintained, upgraded cruiser with proven bluewater capabilities. The combination of thoughtful upgrades, comfortable accommodations, and reliable systems makes it a standout choice for those ready to embark on new sailing adventures. Interested buyers are encouraged to explore the full details and contact the broker to learn more about this exceptional vessel.

This article has been sourced from press releases and cross-referenced with multiple websites. Facts originally seen at Source.