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- Cruising Speed: 6 kn
- Maximum Speed: 12 kn
- Beam: 15' 1''
- Hull Material: Composite
- Displacement: 32 lb
- Fuel Tank: 2 x 400|gallon
- Fresh Water: 3 x 300|gallon
- Cabins: 4
C&C 61 “KOH-I-NOOR”
Legendary Maxi-Racer Pedigree | Over $1.2M Refit | Proven Offshore Cruiser
“Koh-I-Noor” is a truly exceptional sailing yacht—one of the most storied and extensively rebuilt C&C 61s ever brought to market. Originally launched in 1974 as Helisara, she was custom-built for Herbert von Karajan, famed conductor of the Berlin Philharmonic, and raced extensively in the Mediterranean before beginning a remarkable global cruising and racing history. Today, she stands as a rare opportunity to acquire a classic maxi yacht with modern systems, refined craftsmanship, and true offshore capability.
Designed during the golden era of performance yacht design, the C&C 61 was among the largest fiberglass production yachts of her time, conceived as a fast cruiser capable of competing boat-for-boat with the 12-Meters while retaining the strength and volume needed for serious passage making. “Koh-I-Noor” reflects that ambition in every detail—from her powerful hull form to her towering rig and beautifully executed interior.
Between 1992 and 2002, the yacht underwent a no-expense-spared, decade-long refurbishment, during which nearly every system, surface, and structural element was rebuilt, replaced, or upgraded. In excess of $1.2 million was invested, transforming her into a thoroughly modern offshore yacht while preserving her classic lines and racing DNA. Since that time, she has continued to benefit from thoughtful stewardship and ongoing updates, including new sails and electronics.
Denison Yachting is pleased to assist you in the purchase of this vessel. This boat is centrally listed by Randy Cowley Yacht Consultants.
Denison Yacht Sales offers the details of this yacht in good faith but can’t guarantee the accuracy of this information nor warrant the condition of this boat for sale. This yacht for sale is offered subject to prior sale, price change, or withdrawal from that yacht market without notice. She is offered as a convenience by this yacht broker to its clients and is not intended to convey direct representation of a specific yacht for sale.
Classic Elegance with Handcrafted Detail
The main salon is warm, inviting, and unmistakably custom. Rich solid teak joinery, sweeping curves, and fine inlay work define the space, complemented by dark green leather seating that adds both comfort and character. Large ports provide excellent natural light, while custom cabinetry and marble-topped furniture reinforce the yacht’s bespoke nature. This is a salon designed for relaxed evenings at anchor and comfortable living on extended passages.
The Company offers the details of this vessel in good faith but cannot guarantee or warrant the accuracy of this information nor warrant the condition of the vessel. A buyer should instruct his agents, or his surveyors, to investigate such details as the buyer desires validated. This vessel is offered subject to prior sale, price change, or withdrawal without notice.
Refined, Comfortable, and Purpose-Built
“Koh-I-Noor” offers generous accommodations for a yacht of her era, with beautifully finished staterooms featuring solid teak doors, custom cabinetry, and thoughtfully integrated storage. The aft stateroom was reconfigured to enlarge the berth and add a desk and sofa, while all mattresses are custom-made with tailored linens, down comforters, and spreads. Forward accommodations include a large V-berth and excellent access for sail handling or emergency egress.
Luxury Finishes, Fully Modernized
Two heads were installed during the refit, both featuring vacuum-flush systems, marble countertops, solid teak vanities, and hand-laid showers. Plumbing throughout the yacht was completely replaced, including hoses, pumps, and holding tanks, ensuring modern reliability with classic craftsmanship.
Race-Bred Layout with Cruising Comfort
On deck, “Koh-I-Noor” remains every inch a performance yacht. The hull is massively built, with 15 layers of fiberglass and double balsa core in stressed areas, giving her exceptional stiffness and durability. The cockpit was completely rebuilt with a custom curved teak seat, upgraded electronics, and a larger, traditional battleship wheel.
Winch inventory is extensive and powerful, including electric two-speed Andersen winches and multiple self-tailing primaries, supporting both racing and shorthanded sailing. A custom enclosure was added to the mid-cockpit for weather protection, enhancing comfort in cooler climates.
Powerful, Modernized Maxi Rig
The mast was rebuilt and reinforced, adding 9 feet of height and bringing total mast height to approximately 92 feet, with triple spreaders and upgraded rod rigging. The boom was lengthened by 3 feet, and a full hydraulic system controls backstay, vang, and outhaul loads.
Sail inventory includes:
This is a serious sail plan, capable of both performance sailing and efficient passagemaking.
Extensively Rebuilt and Well Engineered
The original engine was replaced with a Volvo TMD 40 turbo diesel (136 HP), connected to a feathering propeller with dripless coupling. An 8kW Westerbeke generator supports onboard systems. The engine compartment was fully rebuilt with excellent insulation, Reverso oil-change system, stainless risers, new exhaust components, and a Halon fire-suppression system.
Electrical systems were comprehensively upgraded, including:
A 10 HP 24V electric bow thruster and Muir windlass dramatically improve maneuverability.
A Rare Opportunity
“Koh-I-Noor” is not a lightly refreshed classic—she is a fully re-engineered maxi yacht whose refit cost far exceeds her current asking price. The quality of materials, depth of structural work, and completeness of the systems upgrades place her in a category rarely seen in vintage performance yachts.
She is offered only with great reluctance and represents a compelling opportunity for an experienced sailor seeking:
“Koh-I-Noor” is a yacht with soul, history, and substance.
For the buyer who understands what it takes to rebuild a vessel of this caliber—and what it would cost to do so today—she stands alone.
Contact our team to schedule a private showing.
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