spencer yachts manns harbor nc

Our Company

Paul & Shelly Spencer

Raised on the waters of the Atlantic, Captain Paul Spencer began working as an offshore summer mate at the early age of 12. Seven years later, he acquired a captain’s license and earned a living through fishing charters and tournaments, where he proved to be a very gifted captain and angler; excelling in tournament circuits.

In 1996, Captain Paul and his wife Shelly decided to try their hand at boat building. Drawing on his years of charter boat experience, Paul’s boats married function and performance with elegant “Carolina Style” craftsmanship. Spencer Yachts has become known for being progressively innovative and masterfully crafted fishing yachts. Shelly was the original book keeper for the company. She developed some of the systems that are still in place at the company today. Paul and Shelly have been married for over 50 years, they have five children, 12 grandchildren and one great grandchild (to date).

Tracey and her husband, Nathan, have worked with the company since 1998 and raised three children. She has always had a thirst for knowledge and is fascinated by all the new technologies that go into our boats. Tracey currently manages the Manns Harbor facility where our boats are started. She enjoys getting out in the ocean to fish any chance she gets.

Stacey joined Spencer Yachts after completing high school and has been involved in every administration job at the company throughout the years. She is currently the CFO and is an integral part of the company. Stacey and her husband, Hunter, have two sons. Stacey enjoys boating with her family and watching her children grow up with a passion for fishing in their blood.

Cliff helped erect the first building bay at the Manns Harbor facility in 1996. Since day one he has filled many roles at the company and is now a Construction Manager, running Spencer Marine with his wife Karen. Cliff and Karen have three sons. When he is not in the office, Cliff can be found fishing tournaments and running a successful charter business.

Daniel has been with the company since the doors were opened. He is known as a skilled captain and mate, winning numerous tournaments throughout his fishing career. Daniel enjoys working directly with our customers and has become the ‘go to’ man for representing Spencer Yachts in tournaments. He now works in sales at Spencer Yachts and as a Construction Manager. Daniel has two children with his wife, Rebecca.

Amy has worked with Spencer Yachts since high school, and currently works in Client Relations. She loves helping our customers turn their dreams into reality, making sure they get what they want. She and her husband, Jamie, spend their free time out in the sounds of the Outer Banks fishing and shrimping. They are the proud parents of two children and are excited to pass down their love and knowledge of the fishing and boating industry.

• Boat Reviews

Spencer 59 – Boat Review

• By Capt. Ken Kreisler
• Updated: April 28, 2015

Paul Spencer made his mark as a respected captain and fisherman on the offshore waters of the Atlantic Ocean. As with most of his ilk, his passion for all things nautical began at an early age with summer jobs in the North Carolina fishing charter business, and he earned his ticket by the time he was 20 years old. Armed with a personal vision of what a sport-fishing boat should be able to do and a hands-on, experienced-based approach to design and construction, he founded Spencer Yachts in 1996 in Manns Harbor, North Carolina. From its humble beginnings in a tin shed, the facility now boasts some 125 employees and custom builds from 37 to 87 feet in length. Attitudes is owned by Joe Pregont, a seasoned boat owner with a passion for real wood and sport-fishing boats with style and flair. He was drawn to Spencer Yachts with an image for his own version of the company’s time-tested, sea-proven 59-footer. “I saw Mimi , a Spencer 59 in Harbour Island in the Bahamas and really liked it,” Pregont says. “After I met Paul there and finished making the rounds stateside, I decided to build my first custom boat with him. This is my second Spencer now, and I can’t wait to get her out on the water.”

As with any custom build, the needs of the individual owner must be met. And for this particular project, it began with a request to make sure the living spaces of Attitudes were big enough, in terms of height, for the Pregont family. “Most of the boys, including my son-in-law, are on the tall side, averaging about 6 feet, 5 inches,” says Pregont. “So when we laid out the interior, we made sure Spencer and his people took that into consideration.” To that end, and without sacrificing that sleek and proportional Spencer profile, Attitudes has an average of 78 inches of headroom or more everywhere inside, from the 80 inches in the accommodations area to as high as 84 inches in the forepeak master. With some of the larger builds, there’s obviously a bit more wiggle room. However, the art aboard this boat meant that the design needed to be just right. “We measured every room layout and every space, not only on Attitudes but on others to make sure it was done to the family’s specifications,” adds Capt. Jamie Van Winkle.

A fully found galley is forward of that, and a comfortable dinette sits to starboard. For the accommodations below, it was agreed that the three–stateroom, two-head layout would include an open starboard hallway bunk, measuring some 80 inches long and 36 inches wide with massive storage below. And whether in the forepeak or guest quarters, there is more than ample space in which to keep all those necessary items for extended trips.

With excellent fit and finish noted everywhere, the salon features tons of rod and reel storage below the portside seating area.

A rod closet below allows storage for all the gear you could need.

Engine Room

Well-lit and beautifully finished, the engine room is accessed through a centerline hatch forward in the cockpit. “I had that hatch and dogging entrance door made wide enough to slide my spare props right in, eliminating any need for boxes being on the deck when we are traveling,” Van Winkle says. Once inside, the engine room offers more than ample space to access all equipment, including batteries and electric systems, pumps, valves, refrigeration units, air conditioning, sea chest, and switches. The CAT 21.5 kW generator came encased in a sound enclosure and mounted athwartships in front of the twin C18 1,150 hp Caterpillar mains. An alleyway leads from the engine space to the lazarette. Not only is it an excellent storage area with easy access, it also eliminates the need for a deck hatch, thus preventing any chance of water intrusion during a tussle with a big fish or big water.

The cockpit featured all the necessary accessories, such as mezzanine seating, fish boxes, livewell, refrigerator and freezer compartments, and a BlueWater chair. “I’ve been dealing with the company for years and really like the way Tom Ackel and his crew deliver a product,” says Van Winkle. Made with high-grade stainless hardware and selected teak, it’s the biggest one they make, and it will definitely see a lot of action on this boat. Her coamings and transom are all teak. This owner really likes his boat trimmed out as much as possible; to show off the aft end of Attitudes , about 30 coats of varnish were applied to the transom before being covered with clear coat, after which the gold-leaf name was applied and then buried in multiple layers of clear coat as well. “We go out of our way to keep the deep-drop lead and the marlins from scratching it up,” Van Winkle says. “All this stuff is the real deal with a custom boat.”

Simplicity was key to laying out the bridge area. To that end, the helm features a three-screen electronics display. Practical and kind of old school by some standards, it offers a clean, uncomplicated seating area forward for guests, while giving the skipper all the tools and view aft for when the action is hot and heavy. Electric reels and radios are in separate overhead compartments, and I found excellent storage areas here as well. The Pipewelders tower is an outstanding piece of equipment and finished off as well as any I’ve seen anywhere. “I try not to overdo it up here,” Van Winkle says, noting how easy it is to reach anything he could need while fishing or getting from place to place.

Construction

Once the jig is set up in the Manns Harbor shop, the hull is trucked to Wanchese where the interiors, engines, painting (with Imron) and the rest of the finishing projects are completed. Attitudes is a cored boat, using Divinycell and Core-Cell, and it upgrades tried-and-true construction methods with new materials. For strength, her backbone — being the stringers — is still laminated wood, as are the chines. All that is set on coring, which is glassed over and vacuum-bagged. Once the whole boat is done, it is then cooked by building an oven around it to cure it and get rid of some post-cure issues. “She’s the second boat we’ve done this way. Because of the resultant weight loss, strength and stiffness, Spencer Yachts will be doing it from now on,” says Van Winkle.

Performance

“I just didn’t like the harmonics of the five-bladed props,” Van Winkle says to me as we headed out of Pirates Cove Marina in Stuart, Florida, for some time out on the water. Swapping them out for a pair of Veem four-blade, 31-inch wheels, his reaction was immediate: “Now that’s how things should sound,” he says. “Quiet.” Having not been aboard with the former props, I could not judge the difference, but a smooth increase in speed was quite apparent as we approached 1,750 rpm with a 70 percent load.

Holding her there, Attitudes moved through the water at 29 knots at what I would call a slow cruise. (Not too shabby at 1,500 as well, with a 23-knot rate.) When we advanced the throttles to 2,000 rpm, at 76 percent load, I noted 34.5 knots. She has a definite sports-car feel with quick response to the helm as she cut tight and steady turns, and she tracked straight and true.

Spencer’s particular knack for building a boat results in a sleek, well-proportioned look wrapped around an impressive performance package. From the front of the house, to the shape and size of the windows, to the sweep of the overhang, Spencer boats share a unique profile. With the 66-foot Alpha Bravo , a 74 named Flight Plan , Inappropriate , a 69-footer, and Gratitude , which measures 62 feet along with several others in the works, you’ll be seeing a lot more Spencer Yachts on the water in the near future. And that’s a good thing. Photo Courtesy Spencer Yachts

• More: Boat Reviews , Spencer Yachts , Sport Fishing Boats

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Spencer Yachts For Sale

Spencer Yachts are among the elite when it comes to custom, tournament-ready sportfishing boats that need to perform under an extreme competitive atmoshpere. Known for excellent performance, beautiful lines, and all of the customization options owners want today, every vessel produced is a work of art. United Yacht Sales is experienced in the building and sale of custom sportfishing boats and can assist you in your search for the right Spencer.

Learn More About Spencer And Find Your Next Boat

Founded in 1996 by Paul Spencer, on a rich heritage of Carolina boatbuilding including his father-in-law, charter captain and boatbuilder Sheldon Midgett, who had encouraged Paul to build sportfishing boats after 20 years as a successful charter captain. Paul Spencer, who grew up in the sportfishing hub of Oregon Inlet near the Outer Banks of North Carolina, began working as a deck mate while in his teens and obtained his captain’s license at age 19. His love for fishing and the sea, along with years of charter and tournament fishing, served to inform his design and construction of the elegantly functional custom Spencer sport fishing yachts, ranging from 37 ft to 87 ft in length—lean, fast, with a great ride. Though each boat is a custom handcrafted build, the distinct Spencer signature, a blend of Carolina flare and the sleek Florida style is uniquely recognizable and a source of Spencer Yachts and owners’ pride. Paul Spencer is joined in the business by 3 of his five children; Cliff Spencer is construction foreman of the entire company and enjoys tournament fishing as captain, mate or angler. Daniel Spencer, who also has a passion for fishing and obtained his captain’s license at age 21 has already won numerous tournaments; he represents Spencer Yachts in fishing tournaments and as spokesman, and customer liaison.

United Yacht Sales has a team of expert brokers that have decades of experience with custom sportfish . From winning tournaments as captains, to working with the builders on behalf of a client, to selling them on the brokerage market for top dollar, our team at UYS has the expertise you need. Whether looking to custom builder a Spencer or sell your existing one, contact us today to speak with one of our custom boat specialists.

List Of Spencer Yachts On The Brokerage Market

• Page 1 of 1

Spencer Yachts hulls are handcrafted using the cold-molded method, using modern composites in the Manns Harbor, NC facility that was built in 1996, and then transported to the Wanchese, NC facility that includes an in-house paint shop, metal machine shop (marine welding, fuel tanks, specialty shafts), and a carpenter’s shop for completion of each custom vessel. Spencer Yachts strives to utilize new ideas and exceed previous innovations for continuous improvement to deliver unsurpassed world class fishing yachts.

These progressively innovative, masterfully crafted, tournament-winning sports fishing yachts are what Spencer Yachts is renowned for.

The ever-increasing demand for speed and performance has led to use of lighter, stronger composite materials such as Divinycell and carbon fiber, and the Volvo IPS power system with joystick controls. There are several significant advantages to the Volvo IPS system first utilized in a 43 ft Spencer in 2004. Greater speed, maneuverability, and efficiency; performance is enhanced as the longitudinal center of gravity is moved back, and engine room size is reduced, allowing more living and storage space, and the smaller props create a smaller wake closer to the boat’s centerline.

Another nice feature is the switch-operated low-speed bypass to send exhaust above waterline (no bubbles below) or underwater to eliminate exhaust fumes on pleasure cruises. Spencer still builds most yachts with conventional power plants, according to a customer’s preferences and usage plans. Spencer Yachts departs from most custom yachts and production brands with a narrower flybridge in keeping with its signature sleek lines; Spencer Yachts are built with fishing in mind and must perform, spin, turn, and handle well, besides its stunning beauty and luxurious comfort for overnight or long-distance offshore destinations.

In addition to the ultimate in fishing equipment and navigation electronics, the interiors are beautifully elegant with hand-selected wood veneers, natural stones, and other high-end materials, along with the accommodations, appliances, entertainment electronics—customized to the owner’s wishes and style. Comfortable for long distance fishing trips or a family offshore fishing vacation.

Jet propulsion is another advanced technology being utilized for sport fishing vessels, with its benefits of shallow draft, increased speed, greater maneuverability, and “clean” trolling water. Combined with new composites, laminates, and post-curing methods to reduce hull weight and increase performance, Spencer Yachts has managed to hit the 50-knot mark with small 6-cylinder engines and jet-propulsion! Another advance in Spencer’s ever-developing quest to deliver the ultimate sport fishing experience for their customers. And with over 100 handcrafted yachts in marinas and marlin destinations all over the world, Spencer Yachts, has become a legend in its own right.

For those serious fishermen who want to get on a Spencer Yacht now, some brokerage yachts are currently available, ranging in price from just over $1,000,000 for a 2012 Spencer 45 Express Sportfish to about $7,500,000 for a 2014 Spencer Custom Carolina 87ft Sportfish. Model years range from a 2009 Spencer 59ft Sportfish listed at about $3,500,000 to a 2021 Spencer Custom Carolina 48ft Sportfish Express listed at $2,600,000.

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Speak to A United Sales Professional About Spencer Yachts

Spencer Yachts for Sale

Spencer yachts for sale | luke brown yachts.

Raised on the waters of the Atlantic Captain Paul Spencer began working as an offshore mate at the early age of 12 years. Seven years later he acquired a Captain's License and earned a living fishing charters and tournaments until 1996.

At that time Captain Paul decided to try his hand at boat building. He began the endeavor by expanding upon his personal experience of functional necessities in conjunction with desired style. He also drew upon pioneers in the "Carolina Style" of boat building. The Result......A Legend Is Born.

We have two main facilities: A hull is constructed in Manns Harbor then transported to Wanchese for completion.

Manns Harbor, N.C.-- Home to five bays reserved entirely for new hull construction, where cold molding method is used.

Wanchese, N.C.-- Houses six more construction bays and 12 docking slips to enable rapid completion of your hull. Also located on site, an in house paint shop, a metal machine shop, and a carpenter's shop to accommodate your custom specifications.

CONTACT LUKE BROWN NOW TO GET STARTED SELLING OR BUYING YOUR YACHT TODAY!

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Spencer Yachts

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5698 US 64-264 Hwy

Manns Harbor, NC 27953

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About Spencer Yachts

Founded by Captain Paul Spencer in 1996, Spencer Yachts melds a lifetime of sport-fishing passion with classic "Carolina Style" yacht design. This North Carolina-based yacht builder has created a line of offshore sport-fishing craft that have steadily become the stuff of legend among serious tournament anglers and yachtsmen alike.

First-Rate Facilities

Spencer Yachts operates two facilities where various phases of its custom offshore yachts are manufactured.

Each hull is constructed in Spencer’s Manns Harbor, NC facility. There, each hull is cold molded to exacting specifications. The facility is equipped with five bays where each custom yacht is crafted by an experienced team of yacht builders. From there, the molded hull is transported to Spencer’s Wanchese, NC completion facility. 

There, six construction bays and 12 docking slips await, where completion of the hull takes place. This is followed by operations and assembly by Spencer’s custom paint shop, machine shop, and carpentry shop to custom-finish each yacht to the customer’s personal specifications.

In-House Metal Fabrication

While some custom-yacht builders outsource the construction of tower, railings, and other metal components, Spencer Yachts believes in maintaining complete design and executional control. Its custom metal fabrication shop specializes in marine welding, tower fabrication, custom fuel tanks spec’d to a customer’s unique design, and even specialty shafts to fit each yacht’s needs, keyed and tapered to the precise specifications of each custom creation.

Tournament-Proven

Spencer’s reputation was born and developed in the offshore tournament environment. Its Carolina-bred pedigree has steadily become the foundation of legendary performance and fishability. It’s overall ride and rough-water seaworthiness are heralded by owners and the marine press alike, with many agreeing it is the best offshore yacht they have ever boarded.

Sought-After Style

From 37 to 87 feet, the strong resale of Spencer Yachts makes them stars on brokerage and anywhere you search for yachts for sale . Their striking lines are a favorite of seasoned seamen and yacht owners who covet the world’s most distinctive fishing yachts.

Call 954.462.5557 today to speak to a Spencer Yachts Specialist and to receive information about all the Spencer Yachts for sale in today’s market.

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Spencer Yachts For Sale

Spencer Yachts is a maker of gorgeous Carolina-style luxury sportfishing boats. They offer spacious, opulent interiors, as well as customizable options at every turn. The company has won numerous awards over the years, earning Spencer a multitude of loyal customers. They have two main facilities:  Manns Harbor, North Carolina and Wanchese, North Carolina. 

Spencer Yachts

60', Spencer, Custom Carolina, 2007

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60', Spencer Yachts, Custom Convertible, 2020

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49', Spencer Yachts, Express Sportfish, 2010

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43', Spencer, Custom Carolina Express, 2008

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You are here Travels with Nessie Exploring NC Manns Harbor

Exploring Manns Harbor, North Carolina

Manns Harbor is a small fishing village on the western Banks of Croatan Sound. It is just east of the US64 US 264 intersection. The William B. Umstead Bridge and the newer Virginia Dare Memorial Bridge link Manns Harbor on the mainland to Manteo on Roanoke Island.

Manns Harbor is home of Spencer Yachts. Spencer Yachts makes some beatuiful high performance fishing yachts. Spencer Yachts . They were building a new yacht while we were in Manns Harbor.

We found a few boats and crab pots at the old ferry dock. The ferry provided a link between Manns Harbor and Roanoke Island til 1957 when the William B Umstead Bridge was comleted.

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