1963 Chantier De L’Esterel 104 – 32m Classic Motor Yacht for Sale in France

1963 Chantier De L’Esterel 104 – 32m Classic Mahogany Motor Yacht for Sale in Nice, France

Classic French Motor Yacht Overview: This exquisite 32m Chantier De L’Esterel motor yacht, launched in 1963 by a renowned French shipyard, is a true showcase of traditional mahogany craftsmanship and classic semi-displacement hull design. With her elegant profile, warm wooden finishes, and beautifully balanced lines by André Mauric, she offers timeless appeal for connoisseurs of mid-20th-century yachting. Built in France and currently lying in Nice, this 104ft classic stands out as a rare opportunity to acquire an authentic heritage yacht that combines oceangoing capability, character, and comfort.

Construction, Dimensions & Hull Design: The yacht measures 104ft (32m) in overall length, with a beam of 18ft (5.63m) and a minimum draft of 6ft (1.8m), providing excellent stability and generous interior volume. With a gross tonnage of 123 GT and a displacement of around 104 tons, she delivers substantial presence on the water while remaining manageable for private ownership. Both hull and superstructure are expertly crafted in mahogany, with careful joinery and robust framing that underline the yard’s reputation for durability and fine woodworking. Her semi-displacement hull delivers an ideal balance between efficiency at cruising speeds and confident handling in a range of sea states, while broad side decks, a generous foredeck, and a practical aft platform ensure safe and comfortable movement around the yacht.

Performance, Machinery & Range: Power is supplied by twin MTU diesel engines, each rated at 1,450 hp, giving this classic yacht serious performance for her era and size. She offers a comfortable cruising speed of around 12 knots and a reported top speed of up to 28 knots, allowing both economical long-range passages and faster coastal transits when desired. A fuel capacity of approximately 12,000 litres (3,170 US gallons) supports a range in the region of 1,000 nautical miles at cruising speed, making her suitable for extended coastal cruising and regional passage-making. Freshwater capacity of about 2,000 litres (528 US gallons) and holding capacity of around 1,400 litres (370 US gallons) provide good autonomy for longer stays aboard. Her mechanical layout has been designed for reliability and ease of operation, with carefully routed fuel and freshwater systems and engine room access that supports ongoing maintenance and inspection.

Accommodation, Layout & Interior Comfort: Onboard accommodation is configured to balance guest comfort with practical crew operation. The yacht offers guest quarters for up to eight guests in four well-arranged staterooms, complemented by five guest heads to ensure privacy and convenience during longer cruises. Crew accommodation comprises five cabins, providing berths for up to five crew members, allowing for professional management without compromising guest areas. The interior styling, attributed to André Mauric, combines classic wood paneling with functional layouts, creating an inviting main salon ideal for relaxation, conversation, and entertainment. A dedicated dining area provides a comfortable setting for formal meals, while the fully equipped galley supports both private family cruising and professional chef-level catering. Climate control, ambient lighting, and entertainment systems contribute to a welcoming atmosphere suitable for year-round use.

Deck Spaces, Exterior Living & Tender Handling: Exterior decks are configured for both practicality and enjoyment. Wide side decks and a generous foredeck create excellent circulation and viewing areas, while the aft deck and swim platform are optimized for easy access to the water and tender operations. Expansive open spaces allow for sunbathing, al fresco dining, and relaxed lounging at anchor or underway. Storage for tenders, water toys, and deck equipment has been thoughtfully integrated, giving the yacht flexibility for family cruising, watersports, or occasional charter use. The classic mahogany superstructure and brightwork, combined with her traditional deck layout, create a distinctive presence in any marina or anchorage.

Heritage, Registration & Use Profile: Built and registered in France, this Chantier De L’Esterel motor yacht offers strong provenance and an appealing heritage profile for buyers who value authenticity and classic naval architecture. Her sea-kindly semi-displacement hull, proven MTU machinery, and generous range make her suitable for coastal exploration throughout the Mediterranean or further afield, depending on owner preference and classification. She is an attractive candidate both as a private family cruiser and, subject to regulatory compliance, as a boutique classic-yacht charter platform for discerning guests.

Survey, Documentation & Purchase Process: Prospective buyers are encouraged to undertake full due diligence, including a review of vessel documentation, registration papers, classification history, and maintenance records. A professional pre-purchase survey and sea trial are recommended to verify hull condition, structural integrity of the mahogany construction, mechanical performance, and the status of navigation and safety systems. Inspection should include detailed assessment of structural timbers, fastenings, underwater surfaces, and any refit or upgrade works completed in recent years. Ownership transfer typically follows a structured process involving Letter of Intent, deposit into escrow, survey and sea trial, conditional acceptance, and final closing with clear title transfer and agreed inventory.

Arrange a Viewing & Next Steps: For discerning buyers seeking a beautifully maintained, classically styled French motor yacht with traditional mahogany construction and genuine mid-century charm, this 1963 Chantier De L’Esterel 104 presents a compelling opportunity. Lying in Nice and ready for inspection, she is ideal for an owner who values heritage, craftsmanship, and long-range cruising capability. To discuss full specifications, request documentation, or arrange a private viewing and sea trial, please contact our team today and take the first step towards owning this distinguished classic motor yacht.