WILDERNESS Beaver 23
"Jester"
3 Berth
Built by ourselves to a bespoke layout and to detailed high-quality spec, this 1987 Beaver 23 SDL has had only 3 owners from new.
Originally fitted out as a luxury 2-berth, the current owners have converted it to a 3-berth layout (forward saloon, 2 singles or optional double, and single berth in the rear cabin.
It has been maintained to a good standard by all 3 owners and has been regularly upgraded with the addition of new equipment, including a 98L, under-counter electric fridge and new batteries supported by a 100w roof top solar panel.
The well-equipped galley is situated amidships and contains, the addition to the Shoreline fridge, a 3 burner brown vitreous enamel cooker hob by the Swedish manufacturer Optimus set into a hard- wearing genuine Formica-faced worktop. There is a recently fitted Thetford Midi-prima oven, grill (with separate door) and pan storage at floor level built in below the hob. The
grill and oven have electronic ignition.
The aft end of the full-headroomed cabin is effectively a separate cabin in itself accommodating the single berth opposite a curtained combined toilet/shower compartment; the curtain divider could easily be replaced with a fixed panel and hinged door. On the starboard side between galley and shower is a generous wardrobe containing hanging space and clothes storage
drawers. This also accommodates the gas-fired Alde heating boiler which provides hot water to sink and shower and heat to low-profile radiators tucked away around the edges of the cabin space. This space heating is thermostatically controlled.
The other side of the galley accommodates a brown resin-moulded double sink and drainer, again, set into a matching Formica worktop. It has a chrome mixer tap and a removable hardwood chopping board. There is also an independent filtered drinking water supply beside the sink.
The forward saloon area with its usual Wilderness panoramic windows, has ample comfortable, upholstered seating with a choice of 3 versatile table sizes. The flexible water storage tank is situated under the semi-circular bow seat moulding, holds 150L and is filled from an external fitting in the port forward quarter deck.
Internal headroom throughout the boat is 6’ 1” (1.85m) and the insulated roof is lined with a cord carpet trim.
Externally, the boat is in good order for its age and is fitted with a well-designed dodger around the exterior of the stern safety rails. There is also a bimini-style cover which, when opened, extends over the whole of the rear deck, providing shelter/shade from rain or sun.
Also at the stern is a demountable steel twin-pronged cycle rack mounted outside of the dodger to the rear of the helmsman and is capable of carrying 2 adult cycles.
The twin-axle trailer has been galvanised and all running gear was replaced and upgraded in 2010: it comes with load security straps, a lighting board and a spare wheel and is fitted with side outline marker lights. All tyres are heavy duty rated and in good condition. The all up tow-weight is of the order of 2,300 kgs. and the trailer is specified at 2,600 kgs.
Tech Specs:
Electrically, the boat is very well equipped, having modern LED lighting (some directional), ample 12V power sockets and USB chargers, a TV/DVD player and Freesat satellite decoder (c/w remotes and satellite dish). There is also a 600 watt a/c inverter. There is also a 240v a/c electrical input to the boat (with safety R.C.D.) for use of mains appliances when at marina moorings. The recently fitted 100w solar panel is capable of charging both of the boat’s 120 a/h leisure batteries either singly or both at once.
The boat’s 4-stroke, electric-start 10hp Yamaha engine, new in 2004, has been professionally modified by the addition of an automotive 30 a/h alternator neatly built into the side of the motor hood which provides very good battery charging when cruising. The engine is tiller-steered and has optional-length brass extension handles to helmsman’s choice.
In short, this a well-equipped, warm, and comfortable boat with a good engine, a sound trailer
and is a good example of a Wilderness trailboat package. The boat itself would also be well suited for use as a compact live-a-board.
The Boat Safety Certificate is valid to May 2026 .
The craft is currently afloat on its mooring on the Kennet and Avon Canal in Wiltshire with the
trailer stored nearby. The hull below waterline was last re-antifouled in 2011.
The Vendors are seeking offers closely approaching £24,500 for the whole package.
Delivery, anywhere in the UK, could be arranged if required.
For further information and arrangements to view contact Ian Graham on either 07973 815 920 or 01380 870 141 including evenings and weekends.