Rarely does a vessel come to market that combines true West Coast pedigree, exceptional construction, and proven cruising capability quite like this 1987 West Bay 4500 Pilothouse.
Built in British Columbia and based on a hull originally designed for Canadian Coast Guard search-and-rescue service, the West Bay 4500 is renowned for its rugged construction, seaworthiness, and comfortable cruising accommodations. With only approximately 15 examples ever built, this is a unique opportunity to acquire one of the Pacific Northwest’s most respected pilothouse yachts.
Designed for extended cruising and all-weather operation, she features a solid fiberglass hull, watertight forward bulkhead, and watertight engine room for added safety offshore. Her flared bow, moderate beam, and shallow keel provide excellent handling characteristics, making her equally capable in protected waters or open coastal passages.
The warm oak interior offers a spacious salon, well-appointed galley, and accommodations for family and guests with three private staterooms and two full heads with separate showers. Whether you’re exploring Desolation Sound, cruising the Gulf Islands, or embarking on longer adventures, this vessel offers the comfort and capability to do it with confidence.
Recent Maintenance & Upgrades
A knowledgeable owner has continued to invest in the vessel with substantial maintenance completed over the past two seasons.
May 2025
September 2025
March 2026
The interior has recently been treated with an air purifier and presents well, with only minor cosmetic cleaning remaining.
Highlights
Included Tender Package
Accommodations
Master Stateroom
Guest Accommodations
Heads
Salon
Galley
Electronics
Mechanical Equipment
Engines
Twin Cummins 6BT5.9M Marine Diesels
Generator
Heating
Manufacturer Specifications
Year: 1987
Manufacturer: West Bay Shipyards
Model: 4500 Pilothouse
LOA: 45’
Beam: 14’6”
Draft: Approx. 4’6”
Displacement: Approx. 32,000 lbs
Hull: Solid Fiberglass
Fuel Capacity: Approx. 600 US gallons
Fresh Water: Approx. 300 US gallons
Holding Tank: Custom 45-gallon tank (new)
Cabins: 3
Heads: 2
Sleeps: 6–8
Cruising Speed: 9–12 knots
Maximum Speed: 16–18 knots
Broker Remarks
The West Bay 4500 is regarded as one of the finest pilothouse cruisers ever built in British Columbia. Her commercial-grade construction, dependable Cummins diesel power, spacious three-stateroom layout, and extensive recent maintenance make her an outstanding platform for extended Pacific Northwest cruising.
With only a handful of these respected yachts ever produced, opportunities to own one are exceptionally rare. Recent investments in the fuel system, batteries, plumbing, sanitation, refrigeration, and mechanical servicing provide peace of mind for her next owner and demonstrate conscientious ownership.
Whether you’re planning weekends in the Gulf Islands or extended cruising to Desolation Sound, Haida Gwaii, or Southeast Alaska, this proven West Coast cruiser is ready for her next adventure.
