Yachts for sale / Grand Banks 49 Eastbay SX

2001 Grand Banks 49 Eastbay SX

Warwick, RI, US 49.9 ft · 16.08 ft' beam 2 cabins 30 kn kn top
Asking
$435,000
Our Thoughts

Contessa is a 2001 Grand Banks 49 Eastbay SX, a proven long-range cruising motor yacht built for serious offshore passage-making and extended coastal exploration. Located in Warwick, Rhode Island, this 49.92-foot vessel represents the classic Grand Banks pedigree—a design and construction philosophy that has earned respect among experienced cruising couples and professional mariners for decades.

Power and Performance

Twin Caterpillar 3196 diesel engines deliver 660 total horsepower, coupled to Twin Disc transmissions and 34-inch bronze propellers. The current owner reports approximately 2,500 hours on the engines, with the 2,000-hour service already completed. Performance is respectable for a vessel of this size and displacement: a comfortable 25- to 26-knot cruise speed and 30 knots wide-open throttle. Fuel capacity of 775 gallons supports extended cruising range, while the 176-gallon water capacity serves the two heads, two staterooms, and galley systems.

Electronics and Navigation

The helm station is comprehensively equipped for confident offshore navigation and coastal cruising. Twin Garmin 7212 12-inch multifunction displays with 2K NMEA GPS form the core of the navigation suite, supported by a Garmin 4-foot open array digital radar (GMR XHD 6KW), Garmin GSD 24 sounder, and Garmin GXM 51 satellite XM weather receiver with audio integration. Garmin AIS 600 transponder (TX/RX) provides vessel traffic awareness, while dual Garmin GMI 10 data displays and a Garmin GWS wind sensor with air temperature and barometric pressure monitoring round out the system. Dual Icom M504 VHF radios with 25-watt DSC capability and hailer function, Maretron solid-state compass, and integrated WiFi amplification (Wave WiFi Rogue, 800 mW to 7 miles) complete the communication and situational awareness package.

Accommodations and Interior

The layout follows the proven Grand Banks two-stateroom, two-head configuration. The master stateroom forward features a queen island bed with Zeno mattress, teak hanging lockers and cabinetry, and an ensuite head with walk-in shower enclosure, lavatory, teak vanity cabinetry, and vacuum head. The guest stateroom on the port side offers twin single berths with Zeno mattresses, teak hanging locker, and access to a separate guest/day head with shower enclosure, lavatory, and vanity cabinetry.

The salon spans the midships area with a newly upholstered starboard settee, custom teak table, teak cabinetry, and Emteko deck sole. The galley is well-appointed with a Princess 3-burner electric induction glass-top stove, two Sub-Zero cabinet refrigerators, Sharp carousel microwave, Raritan water heater, Corian countertops, Bosch washer and dryer, and Raritan water heater. The air-conditioned helm deck features an L-shaped port settee for guest seating, starboard helm station with comfortable captain's chair, and 360-degree glass windows providing natural light and unobstructed sightlines. Climate control is maintained by two Dometic 16,000 BTU Emerald Titanium A/C units with Tur

Provided listing description Click to read the original broker text

Contessa is a classic Grand Banks East Bay . Currently owned by a very experienced boating couple. Brought to market with a long list of recent upgrades. Contessa is ready to take her new owners and guest to new places and memorable  adventures. Call for more information and to arrange a private showing. Preliminary photos more photos to follow. 

2001 Grand Banks 49 Eastbay SX: A Thoroughly Equipped Cruising Yacht Ready for Extended Coastal and Offshore Adventure
Overview
The 2001 Grand Banks 49 Eastbay SX *Contessa* represents the classic appeal of the Grand Banks brand—a serious, seaworthy cruising platform built for extended voyages and comfortable entertaining. At nearly 50 feet with a 16-foot beam and 4-foot draft, this motor yacht combines traditional trawler -yacht design with modern electronics and recent mechanical upgrades that position it as a capable vessel for experienced boaters seeking reliability and range. Powered by twin Caterpillar 3196 diesel engines producing 660 horsepower and recently fitted with a Phasor 12.5 kW generator, *Contessa* delivers a 25- to 26-knot cruise speed with 775 gallons of fuel capacity—the operating envelope expected from a serious cruising yacht in this class. The current ownership has invested significantly in systems upgrades, navigation electronics, and interior refinements, making this Eastbay a turnkey platform for owners ready to depart on their next adventure.
Layout and Deck Design
The Grand Banks 49 Eastbay SX is organized around a functional cockpit-forward, cabin-aft arrangement typical of the model. Entry is via the aft cockpit, where a portside built-in settee with new Sunbrella navy and white striped upholstery provides comfortable seating for guests and crew. This outdoor entertaining space connects directly to the helm deck via an adjacent bulkhead entrance, creating a natural flow for socializing and watch-standing. The helm deck occupies the raised pilothouse area and is air-conditioned for year-round comfort. An L-shaped settee on the port side accommodates additional guests, while the starboard-side helm station positions the captain for optimal visibility and control. Large glass windows surrounding the helm deck deliver 360-degree sightlines and abundant natural light—a defining feature of the Eastbay design that makes extended cruising less fatiguing and more enjoyable. Forward and below the helm deck, the salon opens to a logical galley-and-dining arrangement. A starboard settee and custom teak table sit across from the galley, creating an efficient social hub. Two forward staterooms with private entries, ensuite heads, and teak cabinetry provide accommodation for owner and guests, while the forward bow area features a large windows and natural light that reinforce the Eastbay's emphasis on livability over pure fishing capability.
Helm and Electronics Integration
*Contessa*'s helm is equipped with a comprehensive Garmin ecosystem that reflects a serious owner's commitment to modern navigation and situational awareness. Twin 12-inch Garmin 7212 multifunction displays with 2K NMEA GPS form the core of the system, supported by a Garmin 4-foot open-array digital radar (GMR XHD 6 kW) for all-weather piloting. Dual Garmin GSD 24 sounders provide bathymetric detail, while a Garmin GXM 51 satellite weather receiver with audio option keeps the vessel informed of conditions ahead. The Garmin AIS 600 TX/RX system delivers vessel traffic awareness, and two Garmin GMI 10 data displays distribute critical information throughout the pilothouse. A Garmin GWS wind sensor with air temperature and barometric pressure monitoring rounds out the suite. Secondary electronics reinforce redundancy and operational flexibility. Two ICOM M504 black VHF radios with DSC and 25-watt hailer capability ensure communication across all standard maritime frequencies, while a 1 kV HMS system with control panel supports integrated alarm and monitoring functions. A Maretron solid-state compass provides heading reference independent of electronic gyros. For satellite connectivity, a Spaun SMS5602 multi-switch supports multiple satellite feeds, and a Wilson cell/PCS signal repeater system extends cellular coverage up to 7 miles via a Wave WiFi Rogue amplifier (800 mW)—a practical upgrade for cruising in areas with marginal cell service. The helm station itself is ergonomically arranged with ship's controls positioned for intuitive operation, and the captain's chair provides comfort during extended passages. The integration of these systems via NMEA networking allows data sharing across displays and eliminates the need for redundant manual input, a hallmark of modern pilothouse design.
Propulsion and Power Generation
Twin Caterpillar 3196 diesel engines, each producing 330 horsepower, deliver 660 total horsepower through Twin Disc transmissions to 34-inch bronze propellers. With approximately 2,500 hours on the engines and the 2,000-hour service completed, the powerplant is positioned for continued reliable operation. The twin-engine configuration provides redundancy—a critical safety feature for extended offshore cruising—and the moderate horsepower allows economical cruising at 25 to 26 knots while maintaining the ability to reach 30 knots at wide-open throttle if conditions or schedule demand. The 775-gallon fuel capacity supports extended range at cruise speed, a necessity for a yacht designed for serious coastal and offshore voyaging. Fuel economy at cruise speeds typically yields ranges of 400 to 500 nautical miles or more, depending on sea state and loading, placing *Contessa* within the envelope of a true long-range cruiser. Electrical power is supplied by a Phasor 12.5 kW generator installed in January 2024. This capacity supports the vessel's air conditioning, galley appliances, water heating, laundry equipment, and entertainment systems while anchored or underway, eliminating the need to rely on engine alternators for extended periods at anchor—a significant comfort upgrade for cruising couples.
Comfort and Interior Systems
The interior of *Contessa* reflects a balance between cruising practicality and personal comfort. Two staterooms with ensuite heads provide accommodation for owner and guests without the compromise of shared facilities. The master stateroom in the forward bow area features a queen island bed with a Zeno mattress, teak hanging lockers and cabinetry, and an ensuite head with a walk-in shower enclosure, teak vanity cabinetry, and a vacuum head. The guest stateroom on the port side offers twin single berths with Zeno mattresses, a teak hanging locker, and a separate guest head with shower enclosure and vanity—a configuration that allows simultaneous comfort for owner and visiting family or crew. The galley is equipped for extended cruising, with a Princess three-burner electric induction glass-top stove, two Sub-Zero cabinet refrigerators, a Sharp Carousel microwave, Corian countertops, and a Raritan water heater. A Bosch washing machine and Bosch dryer address the practical realities of extended voyages, eliminating the need for frequent marina services or laundromat stops. Air conditioning is provided by two Dometic 16,000 BTU Emerald Titanium units with Turbo VAP, installed new in August 2024. This capacity is sufficient to maintain comfortable temperatures throughout the vessel in warm climates and during summer cruising, a material upgrade that improves livability in the Southeast, Caribbean , and Gulf of Mexico. The salon features a newly upholstered starboard settee, a custom teak table, teak cabinetry, and an Emteko deck sole. The overall aesthetic is warm and traditional—consistent with Grand Banks design language—while the recent upholstery refresh and interior refinements signal a commitment to maintaining the vessel to a high standard.
Why This Yacht Warrants Consideration
The 2001 Grand Banks 49 Eastbay SX *Contessa* is a mature example of a proven design, backed by a current owner with demonstrated commitment to systems upgrades and mechanical maintenance. The 2,500-hour engine service history, the 2,000-hour major service completion, and the recent installation of a new generator and air-conditioning units indicate an owner focused on reliability and operational readiness rather than deferred maintenance. The Garmin electronics suite is comprehensive and modern, supporting confident navigation and weather awareness across all cruising scenarios. The twin-engine propulsion with redundancy, moderate fuel consumption, and 775-gallon capacity position the vessel for serious offshore cruising. The accommodation of two staterooms with private heads eliminates the compromise of shared facilities, a feature that becomes increasingly important on extended voyages or when entertaining family and friends. For experienced boaters seeking a capable, well-equipped cruising platform with proven seaworthiness, established range, and the comfort systems necessary for extended voyaging, *Contessa* offers a compelling package. The recent upgrades, transparent service history, and logical layout make her an
Length
49.9 ft
Beam
16.08 ft'
Year
2001
Builder
Grand Banks
Model
49 Eastbay SX
Cabins
2
Max speed
30 kn kn
What type of yacht is the Grand Banks 49 Eastbay SX and what makes it suitable for long-distance cruising?
The Grand Banks 49 Eastbay SX is a classic motor yacht designed for comfortable, capable cruising. With twin Caterpillar 3196 diesel engines producing 660 horsepower, the vessel achieves a 25–26 knot cruising speed and a maximum speed of 30 knots, making it efficient for covering distance while maintaining fuel economy. The 49-foot length, 16-foot beam, and 4-foot draft provide a stable platform in various sea conditions. The design prioritizes comfort and livability with multiple staterooms, full galley, and air-conditioned accommodations, making it well-suited for extended passages and extended time away from port.
What is the engine and propulsion configuration on this Grand Banks 49?
This vessel is powered by twin Caterpillar 3196 diesel engines, each producing 330 horsepower for a combined 660 HP. The engines are coupled to Twin Disc transmissions and drive 34-inch bronze propellers. With approximately 2,500 hours on the engines and the 2,000-hour service completed, the powerplant is well-maintained. The twin-diesel setup provides redundancy, reliability, and the fuel capacity of 775 gallons supports extended cruising range at economical speeds.
What electronics and navigation systems are installed on Contessa?
The vessel features a comprehensive Garmin electronics suite including twin Garmin 7212 12-inch multifunction displays with 2K NMEA GPS, a Garmin 4-foot open array digital radar (GMR XHD 6KW), Garmin GSD 24 sounder, Garmin GXM 51 satellite XM weather receiver with audio option, and a Garmin AIS 600 transceiver system. Additional systems include two Garmin GMI 10 data displays, a Garmin GWS wind sensor with air and barometric pressure data, dual Airmar bronze thru-hull transducers (50/200 kHz and 235 kHz), two ICOM M504 VHF radios with DSC capability, a Maretron solid-state compass, and a Wilson cell/PCS signal repeater system with Wave WiFi Rogue amplifier for extended connectivity.
How is the helm station configured and what visibility does it offer?
The helm deck is air-conditioned and positioned on the starboard side with a comfortable captain's chair and L-shaped guest seating on the port side. The helm is equipped with Garmin GPS/plotter, ship's controls, VHF radio, and radar. Large glass windows surround the helm deck, providing 360-degree visibility and natural light, which is essential for safe navigation and enjoying the cruising experience. The layout allows the captain to operate the vessel while guests remain comfortable in the helm area.
What are the cabin and stateroom accommodations on this Grand Banks 49?
The vessel includes a master stateroom in the forward bow area with a queen island bed, teak hanging lockers and cabinetry, and an ensuite head featuring a walk-in shower enclosure, lavatory, teak vanity cabinetry, and vacuum head. A guest stateroom on the port side offers twin single berths with a separate guest/day head that includes a shower enclosure, lavatory, and vanity cabinetry. Both staterooms are finished in teak and designed for privacy and comfort. The accommodations support extended cruising with two separate heads and quality furnishings throughout.
What galley and laundry equipment is available for extended cruising?
The galley features a Princess 3-burner electric induction glass-top stove, two Sub-Zero cabinet refrigerators, a Sharp Carousel microwave, a Raritan water heater, and Corian countertops. Laundry facilities include a Bosch washing machine and Bosch dryer, which are uncommon on vessels this size and add significant convenience for extended cruising. These appliances, combined with the 176-gallon water capacity, support self-sufficient cruising without frequent shore visits.
How much air conditioning and climate control is provided throughout the vessel?
The vessel is equipped with two Dometic 16,000 BTU Emerald Titanium air-conditioning units with Turbo VAP technology, installed new in August 2024. These units maintain comfortable temperatures in the helm deck and salon areas, which is particularly valuable during warm-weather cruising. The air conditioning system allows the vessel to remain comfortable in tropical or subtropical destinations and during summer cruising in temperate regions.
What is the generator capacity and how does it support onboard systems?
A Phasor 12.5 kW generator was installed in January 2024, providing reliable electrical power for the air conditioning, galley appliances, water heater, laundry equipment, and all other onboard systems. The generator capacity is sufficient to run multiple systems simultaneously, which is essential when the main engines are not running and the vessel is at anchor or in port.
What is the cockpit and aft deck layout, and how does it function for entertaining and boarding?
The aft deck welcomes guests via the cockpit and features a portside built-in settee with new Sunbrella navy and white striped upholstery, positioned adjacent to the bulkhead and entrance door. This layout creates a comfortable outdoor entertaining space while protecting guests from weather. The large fore deck and windlass support anchoring operations, and the overall cockpit design balances functionality with guest comfort.
What recent upgrades and maintenance has this vessel undergone?
Contessa has benefited from a long list of recent upgrades and maintenance, including completion of the 2,000-hour engine service, installation of a new Phasor 12.5 kW generator in January 2024, new Dometic air-conditioning units installed in August 2024, and newly upholstered starboard settee with Sunbrella fabric. The vessel has been maintained by an experienced boating couple and is presented ready for new owners to begin cruising immediately without requiring significant capital improvements.

Fly Yachts is pleased to assist you in the purchase of this vessel. This boat is centrally listed by Flagler Yachts. It is offered as a convenience by this broker/dealer to its clients and is not intended to convey direct representation of a particular vessel.

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