1972 Classic Century 19' Arabian Boat for sale
Description
If you are familiar with the early Century fiberglass boat line, then you'll no doubt know that the Arabian was the premier runabout offered during this period, and this one is absolutely THE BEST example of that CLASSIC available for sale today anywhere.This boat has been in my family since it was purchased new in 1972. It got plenty of use in the early days but was always well cared for; fresh water only, always stored inside. As time passed and family grew older, the boat saw less and less regular use, and eventually ended up sitting somewhat neglected. So, being the oldest kid, it was only logical that I inherited this baby when everybody else lost interest; and my journey began.
My plan starting out was to just bring the boat back to something close to it's original condition, but the deeper that I got into the project, the more things I discovered needed "fixing"; so I tore it down completely, replaced the stringers (would you believe that the original wood wasn't even "treated"?), and started from scratch. All new interior wood; new upholstery and carpet; gauges checked and repaired if needed; all new wiring (done by an electrical engineer to perfection); re-chromeing where needed; AM/FM/CD stereo added; heater added; new gas tank; custom teak swim step, and halon fire suppression system.
Then came the motor. The stock Chrysler 440 engine is absolutely bulletproof, but I updated it and made it better. My instructions to the engine builder were simple: I want to boost the performance, but I want it to run and hold up better than a stock motor. The list of work done is extensive, but the bottom line is that it now runs just fine on unleaded pump gas (due to the hardened drivetrain components), and best of all, it's not the least bit finicky like many "built/modified" motors tend to be. You can idle all day cruising the lake, or run WOT until it runs out of fuel, this motor simply doesn't care. It's got an Edelbrock intake manifold, Holly Marine carburetor, cooled custom exhaust headers, block drains, etc., etc. This motor delivered 330 HP in it's stock configuration, but with the new cam, balancing, and all the new/upgraded components, I'd estimate that it delivers something on the order of 375 HP today.
Comes with a beautiful black matching Trail-Rite tandem trailer, extra prop, extra rudder, original 1972 Century Owner's Manual, original Chrysler Marine Engine Manual, many receipts and misc. parts. Also includes a Marine Survey from 1992 (during restoration) which estimates the replacement value, with trailer, at nearly $30,000.
You can show up at the marina with your new $100K+ custom ski boat and watch people yawn...or you can drop this classic in the water, start it up, and expect to spend an hour or so talking to people about it...they've even stopped me in the middle of the lake to ask what it is...you gotta love it.
This boat has it all...the classic style and appeal of many mid-century wood boats, but without the wood boat hassles. And, it's got the durability and strength of fiberglass. I'd venture to say that unlike that fancy new ski boat, this beauty will never lose any value; it'll only increase as they become more rare and sought after.
I will consider delivery within 1500 miles or so for an extra fee, and of course I'll help facilitate shipping, even internationally, in any way that I can.
I've been asked about possible partial trades and here's where I stand on this...not out of the question, but I'm not interested in any boats, those days are done; however something interesting just might get my attention.
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1972 century Arabian
Year: 1972
Make: Century
Model: 1972
Location: Spirit Lake, Iowa, United States
1979 Century Arabian
Year: 1979
Make: Century
Model: 1979
Location: Marcellus, Michigan, United States