Featured Listing

1985 Sterling Yachts 155 Motor Yacht

Miami Beach, FL

$1,399,000

Year

1985

Length

155 ft

Beam

26.5 ft

Hull

Fiberglass

Engines

Make	Model	Power	Year	Hours
Caterpillar	3512TA	—	1985	—
Caterpillar	3512TA	—	1985	—

Broker Overview

The 1985 Sterling Yachts 155 Motor Yacht, "TRIUMPHANT LADY," represents a significant opportunity for a buyer looking to enter the 150-foot-plus superyacht market with a clear vision. Designed by Jon Bannenberg, this vessel offers a pedigree that is increasingly rare. While she is presented as a project yacht, the core structure is sound, and critically, the Caterpillar 3512TA engines are running, providing a solid foundation for a comprehensive refit. This is not a turn-key vessel; it requires investment to modernize systems, aesthetics, and potentially reconfigure spaces to current luxury standards. However, the existing infrastructure, including a dramatic three-story atrium, elevator access, and generous guest accommodations, offers a canvas for creating a truly bespoke superyacht. Her substantial volume and classic lines make her a compelling candidate for private use or a return to charter operations. The asking price reflects her current condition and the necessary investment, positioning her as a value proposition for an owner prepared to manage a refit project. We encourage a thorough inspection to understand the scope and potential.

Why This Boat Stands Out

Iconic Jon Bannenberg design pedigree for a unique aesthetic.

Massive 155-foot platform with significant interior volume.

Running Caterpillar 3512TA engines provide a solid mechanical foundation.

Features like a three-story atrium and elevator are rare at this price point.

Strong bones offer a compelling project for a custom refit.

Ideal For

Superyacht ProjectLong-Range CruisingEntertainmentLiveaboardCharter Repositioning

Expert Review

The Sterling 155, a Bannenberg design, was built to a robust standard for its era, focusing on volume and seaworthiness. While a 1985 build, the fiberglass hull offers longevity, and the general construction is known for being substantial. Sea-keeping for a vessel of this size and vintage is generally good, offering a stable platform in various conditions. The value proposition here is in the size and design pedigree for the asking price, but it's crucial to understand this is a project. A comprehensive survey will be paramount, focusing on hull integrity, moisture readings, and the condition of all major systems—electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and propulsion. Pay close attention to the state of the wiring and piping, as these are often the most costly components to update in an older yacht. Comparables would be other large, older custom builds requiring significant refit, where the value is in the hull, engines, and design, rather than current fit and finish.

Owner Sentiment

Good

Owners of large Sterling yachts appreciate the build quality and expansive volume, often undertaking extensive refits to modernize them.

Strengths

Robust construction and seaworthy hull.Exceptional interior volume for a yacht of its size.Classic, timeless design by a renowned naval architect.Potential for significant customization during a refit.

Considerations

Requires substantial investment for modernization and systems upgrades.Higher operational costs typical of a vessel this size and age.Finding skilled labor for a refit can be challenging.

Full Listing Description

TRIUMPHANT LADY | 155’ Sterling Motor YachtProject Yacht Opportunity | Solid Bones | Running Machinery

Broker Overview

TRIUMPHANT LADY is a 155’ pedigree motor yacht designed by the legendary Jon Bannenberg and built by Sterling Yachts, representing a rare opportunity to acquire a large-volume superyacht with strong fundamentals already in place.

This is a project yacht with solid bones and running machinery, offering the right buyer a chance to step into a proven platform and bring her to the next level—whether for private use or charter repositioning.

Following a prior refit, she retains standout features including a dramatic three-story atrium, elevator access, and expansive guest areas typically found on much newer builds.

This is not a cookie-cutter yacht—it’s a value-driven entry into the 150’+ class with real upside.

Why This Yacht Stands Out

155’ platform with massive interior volume
Iconic Bannenberg design pedigree
3-story atrium with spiral staircase centerpiece
Elevator servicing guest areas
Dedicated spa/massage room + gym
Strong charter history (Caribbean, Bahamas, Florida)
5 stateroom layout for 10 guests + crew of 9

Key Specifications

Builder: Sterling Yachts
Designer: Jon Bannenberg
Year: 1985 (Refit 2009)
Length: 155’ (47.25m)
Beam: 26’6”
Draft: 7’6”
Construction: GRP hull & superstructure
Engines: Twin Caterpillar 3512TA
Cruise Speed: ~12 knots
Max Speed: ~14.5 knots
Guests: 10
Cabins: 5
Crew: 9

Layout & Interior

The defining feature of TRIUMPHANT LADY is her three-level atrium, creating a sense of scale and openness rarely seen even in modern yachts. This central design element connects the main living spaces via a sweeping spiral staircase.

The main salon offers elevated seating, entertainment systems, and a full-service bar, while a separate circular dining salon provides a formal setting for 8–10 guests.

Accommodations include:

Full-beam on-deck master suite
Two queen staterooms aft (one convertible to massage/spa room)
Additional guest cabins, all en-suite with entertainment systems

Flybridge & Outdoor Living

Outdoor areas are designed for both privacy and entertainment:

Sundeck with spa pool and lounging areas
Covered dining for 8 guests
Multiple sunpad zones forward and aft
Easy flow between decks via both staircase and elevator access

The yacht’s layout supports both private owner use and high-end charter functionality.

Onboard Amenities & Features

Elevator servicing guest decks
Fully equipped gym with cardio & resistance equipment
Dedicated massage/spa space
Large selection of tenders and water toys
Hydraulic swim platform and boarding system
Entertainment systems throughout

Notably, the yacht also carries multiple tenders and watercraft including jet skis, fishing/diving tender, and towables—making it a true activity platform.

Performance & Capability

Powered by twin Caterpillar diesels, TRIUMPHANT LADY cruises comfortably at ~12 knots with a top speed around 14.5 knots, offering reliable long-range cruising capability for the Bahamas, Caribbean, and U.S. East Coast.

Broker Note

TRIUMPHANT LADY sits in a unique position in today’s market—offering the volume, guest experience, and pedigree of a much larger yacht at a fraction of the replacement cost.

For a buyer looking to step into:

Charter revenue potential
A high-capacity entertaining platform
Or a distinctive private yacht with real presence