A Proven Bluewater Cruiser, Extensively Equipped, Meticulously Documented, and Priced to Sell! 

Southern Cross is a 1987 Tayana Vancouver 42 Center Cockpit currently offered for sale in San Diego, California. Designed by Robert B. Harris and built by Ta Yang Yacht Building in Taiwan, the Vancouver 42 has long been appreciated by cruising sailors for its solid construction, traditional lines, and capable offshore design. Her cutter rig, protected center cockpit, and practical two-cabin, two-head layout make her particularly well suited for extended cruising or comfortable liveaboard use. Southern Cross has benefited from numerous upgrades over the years, making her an attractive option for buyers looking for a proven bluewater cruising sailboat with many of the modern conveniences already aboard.

A significant investment in navigation equipment was made in 2022, including a B&G Zeus 3S chartplotter, HALO20+ radar, Triton2 displays, and updated autopilot components. A Vesper Marine WatchMate Vision AIS system adds another layer of situational awareness, while a Sail-O-Mat wind steering system provides an alternative for longer passages. Her cutter rig features a roller-furling headsail, hank-on staysail, Tides Marine Strong Track mainsail system, and an assortment of Barient self-tailing winches. A Max Power bow thruster is a welcome addition when maneuvering in tight marinas, and her substantial ground tackle, tender davits, and updated dodger canvas further complement her cruising capabilities.

Belowdecks, Southern Cross offers the warmth and character expected of a traditional Tayana, with a spacious salon, dedicated navigation station, and accommodations that provide excellent separation and privacy. The aft owner’s stateroom features an ensuite head with a separate shower, while the forward V-berth cabin and second head comfortably accommodate guests. The galley is particularly well suited for extended time aboard, with Nova Kool refrigeration and a separate freezer, a three-burner gimbaled propane stove and oven, microwave, and double stainless-steel sinks. An Espar diesel heating system, LED lighting, and generous ventilation help make the interior comfortable throughout the year. For those interested in spending more time at anchor, Southern Cross is equipped with a Spectra Ventura 200 Connect watermaker installed in 2022, solar panels, a wind generator, and a Victron MultiPlus 3,000VA inverter/charger installed in 2024. Auxiliary power is provided by a Yanmar 4JH3E diesel engine, reportedly replaced in 2006, along with an Onan 4kW generator.

One of the advantages of Southern Cross is the extensive documentation maintained by her sellers. They have kept a detailed spreadsheet recording the maintenance, repairs, upgrades, and improvements performed throughout their ownership, providing prospective buyers with a valuable history of the vessel and the attention she has received. Recent work includes an April 2025 haul-out with fresh Pettit bottom paint and four new Groco through-hull valves. A marine survey completed in September 2025 is also available for review, offering additional insight into her condition and systems. Southern Cross is priced below market value with the intention of securing a timely sale. For buyers searching for a well-equipped Tayana Vancouver 42, a traditional bluewater cruising sailboat, or a comfortable center cockpit liveaboard, she represents an opportunity to acquire a capable cruising vessel with extensive equipment and documented ownership history. Southern Cross is available for inspection in San Diego, California.