Yachts for sale / Mainship 40 Expedition

2009 Mainship 40 Expedition

North Myrtle Beach, SC, US 41.3 ft · 14.17 ft' beam
Asking
$284,000
Our Thoughts

The 2009 Mainship 40 Expedition represents one of the final examples of this respected trawler model, offering the proven design and build quality that has made Mainship a trusted name among loop cruisers and extended-range voyagers. At 41.33 feet with a 14.17-foot beam, this displacement-hull motor yacht delivers the stability, fuel efficiency, and seakeeping characteristics that define the Expedition class—a platform engineered for serious cruising rather than speed, with a 316-gallon fuel capacity and 118-gallon fresh water system designed to support extended offshore passages and remote-anchorage living.

The current ownership has invested substantially in systems refresh and reliability upgrades, with comprehensive documentation of maintenance and recent work. The 2025–2026 improvement list reflects a methodical approach to vessel stewardship: new Garmin autopilot and navigation suite, replaced stern thruster motor, new salon air conditioning, acid-flushed HVAC raw water lines, all-new Strata glass, refreshed fenders, replaced shower pump and reservoir, new flybridge ice maker, and fresh safety detectors. These upgrades—totaling over $30,000 in documented work—underscore an owner's commitment to making this vessel a reliable platform for extended time away from the dock.

Layout and Accommodation

The port-side galley is a notable feature of this model year, offering efficient workflow and a distinct advantage for galley-up cruising. The main salon features a dinette to starboard and comfortable seating to port, with the helm positioned on the starboard side for excellent visibility and single-handed operation. The lower deck includes a full head on the starboard side, a second stateroom forward for guests, and a spacious V-berth with island bunk configuration and ensuite head access. This three-cabin, two-head arrangement is well-suited to liveaboard or loop-cruising families and provides flexibility for extended voyages.

Deck and Flybridge Design

Wide covered side decks facilitate safe line handling and docking operations—a practical feature appreciated by cruising owners. The flybridge is accessed via a generous staircase and offers substantial entertainment space with new canvas enclosure, internal seating, and forward-positioned helm with commanding sightlines. The aft flybridge deck includes a grill and new ice maker, creating a natural gathering space for watching sunrises and sunsets while at anchor.

Systems and Electronics

The Mainship 40 Expedition is built around proven systems architecture: twin reverse-cycle air conditioning (16,000 BTU), automatic and manual bilge pumps, bow thruster, electric windlass, and fresh water cooling. The electronics package centers on Garmin navigation equipment—including chart plotter, GPS, autopilot, radar, VHF radio, and rudder angle indicator—complemented by Airmar depth sounder and Fusion audio. Hydraulic steering, engine hour meters, engine temperature alarm, and automatic fire extinguishing round out the core propulsion and safety infrastructure.

Galley and Accommodation Systems

The galley features electric stove with oven, refrigerator, deep freeze, ice maker, and 6-gallon hot and cold pressure water heater. The fresh water system, combined with the 118-gallon capacity, supports extended cruising without frequent refill cycles. Deck wash-down system, navigation lights, windshield wipers, and bow pulpit complete the working deck package.

Condition and Cruising Readiness

Spare parts inventory and detailed maintenance logs accompany

Provided listing description Click to read the original broker text

PRICE REDUCTIONThis rare port side galley Mainship 41 Expedition model 2008 was the last year of production of this model. Current Owners spared no expense setting the boat up for the loop. Lots of spare parts onboard as well as maintenance logs. New auto pilot, new stern thruster, new salon A/C, new fenders, new Strada glass, new cover over flybridge stairs, new ice maker on flybridge, new gaskets on galley refrigerator, new shower sump box and pumps, ac flushed, no expense spared here. If you are in the market for a very well-equipped and well maintained "Looper" boat or a liveaboard, look no further. 

2009 Mainship 40 Expedition: A Well-Appointed Cruising Trawler Ready for Extended Voyages
Overview
The 2009 Mainship 40 Expedition represents the final production year of this respected model line, and this particular 41.33-foot vessel stands as a compelling choice for cruising enthusiasts and liveaboard candidates seeking a proven, well-maintained platform for extended waterway exploration. Located in North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, this trawler combines the classic Mainship design philosophy—emphasizing fuel efficiency, seaworthiness, and livable interior spaces—with a comprehensive list of recent mechanical and systems upgrades that reflect the current owners' commitment to reliability and comfort during extended cruising. The Mainship 40 Expedition has earned respect among cruising communities, particularly among those undertaking the Great Loop and similar long-distance waterway passages. This vessel's reputation rests on its full-displacement hull design, modest fuel consumption, and practical accommodations that support both short-term cruising and full-time liveaboard lifestyles. The 14.17-foot beam provides a generous platform for the length, contributing to stability and interior volume without requiring excessive draft for shallow-water cruising.
Layout and Deck Design
The Mainship 40 Expedition's layout prioritizes accessibility and functionality for both helm operations and day-to-day cruising. Entry from the aft deck introduces a well-organized main salon featuring a dinette on the starboard side paired with two comfortable chairs to port, creating a flexible gathering space suitable for entertaining or casual relaxation during anchorages. The port-side galley—described as limited-edition and positioned thoughtfully for workflow efficiency—supports independent meal preparation, a critical feature for extended cruising where self-sufficiency becomes routine. The helm station occupies the starboard side of the main salon, positioned to offer commanding visibility forward and to both sides. The inclusion of a dedicated starboard door provides direct deck access, a practical feature that supports single-handed operation during docking maneuvers and anchoring procedures. This configuration reflects the Mainship design team's understanding of cruising needs, where helm accessibility and sightlines directly impact safe boat handling. Descending below the main salon, the forward accommodations include a full head on the starboard side, serving the primary stateroom while maintaining guest privacy. A second stateroom forward of the companion way provides dedicated guest quarters, and the V-berth forward features an island berth configuration with access to an ensuite head, ensuring that guests and crew enjoy independent facilities during extended cruises with multiple occupants. The flybridge represents a significant asset for this vessel, accessible via a wide covered staircase from the aft deck. The upper deck includes an aft entertainment area with a grill and ice maker, creating an outdoor gathering space suited to observing sunrise and sunset during leisurely anchorages. The flybridge helm, positioned amidships forward, commands excellent visibility for navigation and docking operations. A new canvas enclosure provides weather protection while preserving the open-air experience, and abundant seating throughout the flybridge supports entertaining or simply enjoying extended time in the open air during favorable weather. Wide covered side decks run the full length of the vessel, a practical feature that facilitates safe line handling, fender placement, and general deck work during docking and anchoring without requiring crew to navigate exposed side rails. This design detail, often overlooked in casual descriptions, significantly enhances both safety and operational convenience during the repetitive docking and undocking cycles that characterize extended cruising.
Helm and Navigation Electronics
The Mainship 40 Expedition's helm setup reflects modern navigation standards while maintaining the intuitive control layout that experienced cruisers prefer. The primary helm station integrates Garmin electronics across multiple functions: a chart plotter and GPS system provides position awareness and route planning, an autopilot system enables hands-free cruising and reduces fatigue during long passages, and a Garmin radar system supports navigation in reduced visibility. A Garmin VHF radio provides emergency communication and weather information, while an Airmar depth sounder delivers real-time water depth awareness—essential information for trawler cruising where shallow-water passages and grounding avoidance demand constant monitoring. The 2025 autopilot replacement represents a significant recent investment, ensuring that the vessel's navigation systems reflect current technology standards. Dual compasses provide redundancy for directional reference, and a Garmin rudder angle indicator offers precise feedback on helm input, supporting smooth course corrections and docking finesse. Hydraulic steering contributes to responsive helm feel and reliability, a feature that distinguishes well-engineered trawlers from less capable designs. The electronics suite also includes a Fusion stereo system, integrating entertainment with the helm environment—a practical consideration for extended cruising where entertainment options contribute to crew morale during extended anchorages or passages.
Propulsion and Engine Systems
The Mainship 40 Expedition's propulsion arrangement prioritizes fuel efficiency and reliability, hallmarks of the trawler category. While specific engine specifications are not detailed in the available documentation, the vessel's design as a full-displacement cruising platform suggests powerplant sizing appropriate for economical operation at displacement speeds, a critical consideration for extended cruising where fuel capacity and consumption directly determine cruising range and time between fuel stops. The engine room reflects comprehensive systems integration supporting extended independent cruising. Fresh water cooling maintains optimal engine temperatures while preserving raw water resources for potable use. Dual raw water sea strainers protect the cooling system from debris and biological contamination, a redundancy that prevents cooling system failure during extended passages. Fuel filters support clean fuel delivery, while engine hour meters and temperature alarms provide operational awareness and early warning of developing issues. The bow thruster, recently replaced in 2025, significantly enhances docking capability and single-handed operation, particularly valuable for cruisers navigating tight anchorages or marina slips without crew assistance. The stern thruster, similarly updated in 2025, provides additional maneuvering control, especially during challenging wind and current conditions. An automatic fire extinguishing system provides passive fire suppression in the engine room, a safety feature that protects against catastrophic engine compartment fires during extended cruising when professional fire response may be hours or days away. This system, combined with manual and automatic bilge pumps, reflects the comprehensive safety approach appropriate for vessels operating far from immediate assistance.
Comfort and Climate Control
Extended cruising demands reliable climate control and comfortable living spaces, and the Mainship 40 Expedition addresses these requirements through multiple systems. Two reverse-cycle air conditioning units, each rated at 16,000 BTU capacity, provide cooling and heating throughout the main salon and stateroom areas. The 2025 replacement of the salon air conditioner unit ensures that the climate control system meets current performance standards, a practical consideration for both summer cruising comfort and winter liveaboard operation in temperate climates. A 6-gallon water heater supplies hot water to galley and head facilities, supporting comfortable showers and dishwashing during extended time aboard. The fresh water system maintains 118 gallons of potable water capacity, supplemented by a deck wash-down system for rinsing salt spray and maintaining exterior surfaces during coastal cruising. This combination supports extended periods away from dockside water hookups, a fundamental requirement for cruising vessels. The galley supports independent meal preparation with an electric stove and oven, a deep freeze for extended provisioning, and a refrigerator with recently serviced gaskets ensuring efficient food preservation. The ice maker on the flybridge, installed in 2025, provides a convenience feature that enhances the entertaining experience during anchorages and supports beverage service during social occasions.
Cabin and Interior Accommodations
The Mainship 40 Expedition's interior design reflects practical cruising philosophy, prioritizing livable spaces over showroom aesthetics. The main salon dinette and comfortable chairs create a flexible living area suitable for dining, socializing, or relaxing during extended time aboard. The port-side galley offers efficient meal preparation within sight of the main salon, supporting the communal dining experience that characterizes extended cruising. The primary stateroom, accessed via the V-berth forward, features an island berth configuration providing generous sleeping comfort and accessibility from both sides—a practical consideration for couples sharing a berth during extended passages. The ensuite head serves the forward stateroom, ensuring privacy and convenience without requiring passage through other cabin areas. The second stateroom provides dedicated guest accommodations, a feature that supports cruising with family or friends while maintaining personal space for all occupants. The full head on the starboard side of the main cabin provides additional facilities, supporting the needs of multiple occupants during extended voyages. Recent upgrades including a new shower sump box and pumps ensure that freshwater shower facilities function reliably, a feature that significantly impacts livability during extended cruising. New Strata glass throughout the vessel, installed in 2025, enhances both visibility and weather protection while improving the aesthetic quality of the interior environment. This upgrade, representing a substantial investment, demonstrates
Length
41.3 ft
Beam
14.17 ft'
Year
2009
Builder
Mainship
Model
40 Expedition
What type of boat is the Mainship 40 Expedition and what makes it suitable for the Great Loop?
The Mainship 40 Expedition is a trawler-style motor yacht designed for extended cruising and liveaboard living. At 41.33 feet with a 14.17-foot beam, it combines ocean-capable hull design with the shallow-draft characteristics needed for inland waterway navigation. The model was specifically engineered for loop cruising, featuring a full suite of systems for self-sufficiency, including a 316-gallon fuel capacity for extended range, 118-gallon water capacity, and comprehensive engine room redundancy with dual reverse-cycle air conditioning, multiple bilge pumps, and a bow thruster for tight maneuvering through locks and narrow channels.
What is the galley layout and why is the port-side galley configuration notable on this Mainship 41?
This vessel features a limited-edition port-side galley, which is a rare configuration for the Mainship 40 Expedition model. The galley includes an electric stove with oven, deep freeze, refrigerator, ice maker, and a single sink, positioned to starboard as you enter the salon. The port-side placement allows for efficient workflow and better natural light exposure. The 2024 refrigerator gasket replacement and ongoing maintenance ensure the galley systems remain fully operational for extended cruising where provisioning frequency is limited.
How is the helm station configured and what electronics support single-handed operation?
The helm is positioned on the starboard side of the salon with excellent visibility and direct access to the aft deck via a starboard door, making it ideal for single-handed cruising. The helm features updated Garmin electronics including an autopilot, chart plotter, and GPS. The flybridge helm is located midship forward for additional visibility when underway. The 2025 autopilot upgrade ($8,427) represents a significant recent investment in navigation reliability, and the Garmin Rudder Angle Indicator provides precise steering feedback for both helms.
What Garmin electronics and navigation systems are installed on this Mainship?
The vessel is equipped with a comprehensive Garmin suite including an autopilot/chart plotter/GPS combo unit, Garmin Radar for weather and navigation, and a Garmin VHF Radio for communication. Navigation is further supported by dual compasses, an Airmar depth sounder (upgraded in 2024), and a Rudder Angle Indicator for precise helm control. The Garmin systems provide integrated navigation and autopilot control, which is essential for loop cruising where extended periods of single-handed operation are common and waterway navigation demands accuracy.
What propulsion and engine room systems support cruising reliability?
The Mainship 40 Expedition is powered by diesel engines with fresh water cooling and automatic fire extinguishing systems for safety. The engine room includes dual reverse-cycle 16,000 BTU air conditioners for climate control during operation, four automatic and manual bilge pumps for water management, raw water sea strainers, fuel filters, and engine controls accessible from both the cabin and bridge. The bow thruster provides essential maneuvering capability for docking and lock transit. A 2025 stern thruster motor replacement ($2,500) demonstrates recent investment in redundant propulsion control systems critical for loop cruising.
How does the cabin layout accommodate liveaboard and extended cruising?
The cabin includes a full head on the starboard side, a second stateroom forward for guests, and a forward V-berth with an island berth configuration and ensuite head access. The salon features a dinette on the starboard side and two comfortable chairs to port, creating flexible living spaces. The 2025 salon air conditioner replacement ($4,000) and new electrical receptacles in the salon, galley, and main stateroom reflect recent upgrades to livability systems. The layout supports extended cruising by providing separate sleeping quarters, private head facilities, and comfortable common areas for extended time aboard.
What outdoor entertaining and observation spaces does the flybridge provide?
The flybridge is accessed via a wide covered staircase and features a spacious layout with extensive seating inside a new canvas enclosure. The aft deck includes a grill and ice maker (upgraded in 2025 for $3,000), creating an outdoor galley space for entertaining and meal preparation. The new cover over the flybridge stairs (2025, $1,500) and flybridge sun screen to window covers (2025, $1,000) provide weather protection and shade. The elevated helm position offers panoramic visibility for navigation and observation, while the wide decks and canvas enclosure make the flybridge suitable for sunrise and sunset viewing during extended cruising.
What climate control and comfort systems have been recently upgraded?
The vessel has received significant recent climate control investments including a new salon air conditioner (2025, $4,000), dual reverse-cycle 16,000 BTU air conditioners in the engine room, and a 6-gallon hot and cold water heater with fresh water cooling. The 2024 acid flush of HVAC raw water lines ($800) ensures efficient heat exchange. New carbon monoxide and smoke detectors (2025) support safe operation of heating and cooling systems. These upgrades are critical for liveaboard comfort in varying climates encountered during loop cruising, from northern winters to southern summers.
What deck and safety features support secure cruising and docking?
The vessel includes an electric windlass with a bow pulpit for anchor handling, wide covered side decks for safe line and fender access during docking, and hydraulic steering for reliable helm control. New fenders (2026) and a freshwater deck wash down system support maintenance and boat care. The stainless steel Strata glass (completely replaced in 2025 for $10,000) provides visibility and weather protection. The bridge curtains and bimini top offer sun and weather protection on deck. Navigation lights, a horn, and dual compasses support safe operation in all conditions, while the bow and stern thrusters enable precise maneuvering in tight spaces typical of loop cruising.
What maintenance records and spare parts inventory support extended cruising confidence?
The current owners have maintained comprehensive maintenance logs and kept extensive spare parts onboard, demonstrating serious preparation for extended cruising. Recent major investments include a 2025 stern thruster motor replacement ($2,500), 2025 autopilot upgrade ($8,427), 2025 salon air conditioner replacement ($4,000), 2025 all-new Strata glass installation ($10,000), 2024 HVAC system acid flush ($800), and 2026 bottom cleaning with zinc replacement. The documented upgrade history, combined with onboard spare parts inventory and maintenance logs, provides confidence in system reliability and reduces the likelihood of extended downtime during a loop cruise, where service facilities may be limited.
Who is the ideal buyer for this Mainship 40 Expedition and what cruising profile does it support?
This vessel is ideally suited for buyers planning extended inland waterway cruising, particularly the Great Loop, or those seeking a liveaboard platform with proven ocean-capable design. The buyer profile includes experienced cruisers who value self-sufficiency, redundant systems, and documented maintenance history over newer construction. The boat supports single-handed operation with its helm configuration and autopilot, accommodates guests with multiple staterooms, and provides comfortable living spaces for extended time aboard. The recent major upgrades to climate control, electronics, and structural components indicate the current owners prepared this boat specifically for serious cruising, making it well-suited for buyers seeking a turnkey cruising platform with modern systems and a detailed service record.

Fly Yachts is pleased to assist you in the purchase of this vessel. This boat is centrally listed by Berry-Boger Yacht Sales, Inc. 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.

Similar yachts

More Mainship yachts

See all Mainship listings →

Watch this boat

Not ready to talk yet? Leave your number — we'll personally alert you the moment the price moves or her status changes.

$284,000 Request a call
¿Habla español? (traducción automática)

Hablamos español

Déjenos su número y un broker de Fly Yachts le llamará — en español.