Bertram boats
Bertram boats are classic offshore sportfishing yachts built primarily from the 1960s through the 1990s, with 136 registered hulls in the US fleet. These are substantial vessels with a median length of 37 feet, almost entirely diesel powered (98 of 136 hulls), designed for serious bluewater work. Best suited for experienced owners prepared for the maintenance costs and complexity of aging offshore platforms.
Bertram used prices from our data
Show the numbers by model year
| Model year | Boats | Middle half of asks | Median ask |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 2 | too few to show | - |
| 2023 | 2 | too few to show | - |
| 2005 | 1 | too few to show | - |
| 2000 | 1 | too few to show | - |
| 1994 | 1 | too few to show | - |
| 1992 | 1 | too few to show | - |
| 1990 | 1 | too few to show | - |
| 1989 | 1 | too few to show | - |
| 1988 | 1 | too few to show | - |
| 1987 | 2 | too few to show | - |
| 1986 | 2 | too few to show | - |
| 1985 | 4 | $18,000 to $101,000 | $54,000 |
| 1984 | 3 | $22,500 to $62,000 | $39,000 |
| 1983 | 2 | too few to show | - |
| 1982 | 3 | $21,000 to $87,500 | $40,000 |
| 1981 | 2 | too few to show | - |
| 1980 | 3 | $26,000 to $52,000 | $44,000 |
| 1979 | 3 | $24,000 to $29,000 | $25,000 |
| 1978 | 6 | $36,000 to $135,000 | $80,000 |
| 1977 | 1 | too few to show | - |
| 1976 | 4 | $12,000 to $29,500 | $18,500 |
| 1975 | 3 | $16,500 to $50,000 | $27,500 |
| 1974 | 3 | $9,500 to $42,500 | $10,000 |
| 1973 | 3 | $18,500 to $42,500 | $35,000 |
| 1972 | 2 | too few to show | - |
| 1971 | 2 | too few to show | - |
| 1970 | 2 | too few to show | - |
| 1969 | 1 | too few to show | - |
| 1968 | 2 | too few to show | - |
| 1967 | 1 | too few to show | - |
69 distinct Bertram boats, listed now or since taken down, newest seen 2026-11-14. Asking prices, not sale prices. Value change per year of age is fitted on 41 boats with a known length, holding length constant. Bertram values by model year.
Bertram recalls and USCG accident records
Of 182Bertram boats in USCG accident records: fire or explosion 15%, flooding or swamping 3%, capsizing 1%, total loss 8%, at least one death 1%. Accident records reflect how and how much boats are used, not only how they are built. Only accidents above the USCG reporting threshold are recorded. Personal watercraft are left out.
Are Bertram boats reliable?
With zero USCG recalls on record and a reputation for robust construction, the Bertram name reflects quality engineering. However, the typical boat in this fleet dates to the mid 1980s, meaning buyers face age based issues common to 40 year old fiberglass: fuel tank corrosion, outdated electronics, and potential hull or stringer degradation requiring costly repairs.
Common problems to inspect on a used Bertram
- Hull and deck joint separation and coring moisture in older models
- Fuel tank corrosion and contamination requiring replacement
- Stringer delamination or engine bed deterioration from water intrusion
- Outdated electrical systems and corroded wiring harnesses
Registry footprint
Sample = US state open-data vessel registries (currently Texas + New York, ~875k vessels). Treat as a representative slice of recreational US inventory.
Recalls (1)
- ⚠ Recall
26MF01824/16/2026
USCG MIC entries (2)
Frequently asked questions
Are Bertram boats good quality?
Bertram boats were built to high standards for offshore use, with zero federal safety recalls on record. However, most surviving hulls are over 40 years old, so quality now depends heavily on prior owner maintenance and whether major systems like fuel tanks and stringers have been updated.
Do Bertram boats hold their value?
Well maintained Bertrams hold value within a narrow buyer pool looking specifically for classic offshore yachts. The 37 foot median size and diesel power (72% of the fleet) mean these are expensive boats to operate, limiting the resale market to buyers who can afford ongoing maintenance costs.
What is the most common problem with Bertram boats?
Fuel tank corrosion is the most widespread issue on older Bertrams, often requiring complete tank replacement at significant cost. Buyers should also inspect stringers and the hull and deck joint carefully, as water intrusion over decades can cause structural degradation.
How much does it cost to maintain a Bertram boat?
Expect annual maintenance of 10 to 15% of the boat's value for a diesel powered 37 footer, covering engine service, bottom paint, systems upkeep, and the inevitable repairs on aging components. Major projects like fuel tanks, stringers, or engine rebuilds can easily reach five figures.
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