1985 Holman 55 “La Dolce Vita” – Classic Offshore Sailing Yacht
Overview
La Dolce Vita is a rare and beautifully maintained Holman 55, custom-built by Sail Fast Industries of San Diego and designed by the legendary Kim Holman. Hull No. 4 in her series, she was purpose-built for performance sailing and offshore capability. With her robust fiberglass construction, fin keel, and elegant racing lines, she combines timeless design with reliable cruising features — an ideal yacht for bluewater passages or coastal adventures.
Her Perkins 120 HP diesel engine was completely overhauled in September 2017 and has logged only 158 hours since. The hull was fully repainted in August 2024, and she’s registered in Panama as a recreational vessel (valid through December 2025). This yacht reflects decades of expert care, recent upgrades, and consistent attention to detail.
Specifications
Builder: Sail Fast Industries (San Diego)Designer: Kim HolmanModel: Holman 55Year Launched: 1985Length Overall: 55 ftBeam: 14 ftDraft: 6.4 ftDisplacement: 148 (LWL)Hull Material: FRP (Fiberglass)Deck Material: Fiberglass / Wood sandwich coreKeel Type: Fin Keel (bolted)Steering: Wheel – single helm stationRegistry: Panama #9124 (Recreational, valid through Dec 2025)Last Antifouled: August 2024Hull Repaint: August 2024
Machinery & Performance
Engine: Perkins 120 HP Model 3778665B (S.A.C. 28 YY)Engine Hours: 158 (after complete overhaul in 2017)Cruising Speed: 8 knotsMaximum Speed: 9 knotsCruise Fuel Burn: ~0.75 GPHDrive Type: Shaft DrivePropeller: Two-blade (prop balanced and trimmed in 2018)Fuel Type: DieselThrusters: NoneSteering System: WheelHot Water Off Engine: Sea Water
Tanks
Fuel Capacity: 122.5 galWater Capacity: 157.5 gal
Electrical & Power Systems

House Battery: 1 × 12 V
Engine Batteries: 2 × 12 V (replaced June 2024)
Windlass Battery: 1 × 12 V
Battery Type: Marine Lead
Battery Charger: Yes
System Voltage: 12 V (220 V shore power)
Solar Panels: 3 × 100 W each
Generator: N/A
Wind Generator: No
Inverter: No
Air Conditioning: No
Heater: No

Electrical Upgrades:Rewiring and system replacement completed February 2020.
Navigation & Electronics

Depth Transducer: Yes
Autopilot: Yes (needs adjustment)
Wind Instruments: No
Radar: No
Chart Plotter: No
GPS: No
Stereo: Sony
VHF Radio: SeaRanger 3000
AIS & EPIRB: Yes (registry requires update)
TV: No
Sat Phone: No

Accommodations & Interior
The detailed cabin configuration was not specified in the inventory, but the Holman 55 typically features a spacious owner’s stateroom aft, a generous saloon amidships, and additional forward berths suitable for guests or crew.
Interior Highlights (as per class):

Open saloon with ample seating and headroom
Galley to port with double sink and refrigeration
Large chart table and navigation station
Multiple hatches for light and ventilation

(Further interior details pending update.)
Galley

Galley Location: Amidships Port
Stove / Oven: Installed
Sink: Yes
Refrigeration: Yes (12 V system)
Freezer: Yes (12 V system)
Microwave: N/A
Gas Alarm / Auto Shutoff: N/A

Rig & Sails
Mast / Boom Construction: Aluminum (expected for class)Rig Type: Sloop / Cutter configuration (Kim Holman design)Standing Rigging: Details TBDRunning Rigging: Operational condition goodSpinnaker Pole: YesMainsail: YesHeadsails: YesWinches: Manual (standard)Main Sail Reefing: Standard slab reefing
Safety & Ground Tackle

Life Raft: Yes
Life Jackets: Yes
Flares, EPIRB, First Aid: On board (requires date check)
Bilge Pumps: Manual & Electric
Fire Extinguishers: Yes
Anchors: Primary & Spare on board
Windlass: Installed

Deck & Accessories

Tender: Yes (details TBD)
Davits: Yes
Swim Ladder: Yes
Deck Wash: Salt / Fresh water
Deck Shower: Yes (cold)
Cockpit Cushions: Yes
Bimini: Yes
Mooring Lines & Fenders: Yes
Fishing Gear / BBQ / Water Toys: Included

Recent Maintenance & Upgrades

Hull Repaint: August 2024
Antifoul: August 2024
Electrical Rewire: February 2020
Battery Replacement: June 2024
Engine Overhaul: September 2017 (158 hours since)
Propeller Balanced & Trimmed: 2018

Remarks
La Dolce Vita embodies the blend of classic Holman craftsmanship and modern reliability. Recently refitted and freshly repainted, she stands ready for her next chapter — whether for serious offshore cruising or elegant coastal sailing. Her timeless lines, strong pedigree, and solid maintenance history make her an excellent opportunity for discerning yachtsmen seeking a capable and characterful 55-footer.