Vanguard AK3 two-masted with character Anyone looking for a steel sailing yacht with presence will find a striking appearance in this 1979 Vanguard AK3. She was built by D. Klein and belongs to a rare series: of the six examples built, only a few are believed to still be sailing. You can tell in every detail. The boat has a distinctive look, with her robust stainless-steel guardrails, a prominent figurehead and a silhouette that immediately draws attention on the water. It’s no coincidence that during SAIL Amsterdam she was regarded by visitors as a sight to see. This two-masted yacht is therefore not only a pleasant companion for weekend trips and holidays, but also a vessel that starts conversations in every harbour. With a length of 11.00 metres, a beam of 3.00 metres and a draft of 1.80 metres, she is made for inland waters, lakes and rivers—exactly the waters on which she has been used. Inside, she offers a headroom of approximately 1.85 metres, making time on board comfortable, even for longer stays. Vanguard AK3 now in the online auction. Everyone can bid up to and including 22 June 2026. What makes this Vanguard AK3 so special? Her character lies in the combination of classic lines, a tough steel hull with a V-bottom, and a layout that invites you to be on board with several people. She is described as a stable sailor with smooth-sailing characteristics—fitting for a vessel that can handle both relaxed cruising and enjoyable days with friends. The “pirate ship” vibe doesn’t come out of nowhere: especially the unique aft cabin at the transom gives her a distinctive ambience, with a cosy interior and two berths. It’s an easy place to retreat to, while the rest of the crew sits in the saloon. How is comfort on board arranged? She has fixed berths for four people and additional berths up to a total of seven, divided between the aft cabin, the forepeak and the convertible seating area. In the saloon you’ll find a foldable dining table that can also serve as a berth, with settees on both sides and an extra bench on the starboard side. In the forepeak there is a double bed. There is also an enclosed manual toilet amidships on the starboard side. The water tank holds approximately 80 litres, which is practical for weekend trips and short holidays. For cooler days she is equipped with diesel hot-air heating, extending the season. The atmosphere on board is enhanced by details such as brass gauges, a clockwork, hygrometer and barometer—elements that suit her classic appearance. How does she run under engine and what is known about the technical side? The Vanguard AK3 has a Vetus M4.14 inboard diesel engine of 33 hp from 2006, electrically started and fitted with instruments such as an oil pressure gauge, temperature gauge and fuel tank gauge. The diesel tank is approximately 100 litres. The engine is stated to be operational and has recently been serviced, including filters, oil and coolant. On board are three batteries with a total capacity of approximately 230 Ah, divided between a service battery and starter batteries. She has shore power, a battery charger, alternator, inverter, voltmeter and solar panels, making her suitable for comfortable stays on board even when you’re not connected to marina power every day. What about navigation and equipment for longer trips? At the chart table you have access to an extensive set of navigation equipment. Think AIS, GPS, chartplotter, depth sounder, wind meter, compass and VHF radio. There is also NAVTEX and a professional-looking setup with an electrical switch panel. On deck there is an additional marine compass and extra wind meter. For those searching terms like “sailing yacht with AIS and chartplotter” or “steel sailing yacht with VHF”, this is an interesting combination, especially in this length class. Outside, she is set up for relaxed cockpit living with a cockpit table, outdoor cushions, swim ladder, fenders and lines. The ground tackle consists of an anchor with chain and a manual anchor windlass. Two bilge pumps are installed, at least one of which is electric. What should you know about the sails and rigging? She is a two-masted yacht with aluminium masts and a sail plan consisting of mainsail, jib, genoa and mizzen. Furling systems are present, including roller reefing for the genoa and a furling system for the mizzen, plus an in-mast furling mainsail. The sails are stated to be in good condition, washed and impregnated. One point of attention is noted regarding the stainless-steel furling system for the genoa: it was made by the owner and works, but could run more smoothly. After extended sailing, wear may occur on the forestay. This is useful information for buyers who want to know exactly what to expect during a viewing and sea trial. Which work has been carried out recently? She was out of the water in 2025 and also received an antifouling treatment in 2025. In addition, a lot of preservation and paintwork has been done. The underwater hull was sanded and built up with multiple layers, including anti-rust coating, primer and antifouling. Layers were also applied above the waterline and on deck. The base plate of the mast step was replaced and reinforced with steel plate. Furthermore, lines and various stays were replaced, a second roller jib was fitted with a storm jib, the hatch and cabin doors were restored, and the interior was painted. Electrical components and various instruments were renewed, and the deck was repainted, including a comfortable chair by the steering wheel. Included in the sale are, among other things, cushions and upholstery, a cover tarp, extra lines, spare parts such as a spare propeller and V-belt, extra fluids and oil, jerrycans, and a plotter with charts for all of Europe. This makes her attractive for anyone searching for a “Vanguard AK3 for sale” or simply a steel 11-metre sailing yacht with many extras and a distinctive appearance. This Vanguard AK3 is a boat for enthusiasts who don’t just want to sail, but also want to make an entrance. She invites long evenings in the cockpit, quiet cruises on inland waters, and the pleasure of owning a vessel you won’t see on every pontoon.

Outdoor cushions, Cockpit table, Fenders and lines, Sea rails, Swimming ladder/n

Cooker

Mizzen,Jib,Genoa,Main sail