
LADYBUG
*
LADYBUG *
Adventure Awaits on Your
Classic 1985 Nordic Tug 26
There's something timeless about stepping aboard a vessel that perfectly balances classic charm with modern reliability. That's exactly what you'll find with "Ladybug" – a meticulously maintained 1985 Nordic Tug 26 that's ready for your next chapter on the water.
PRICE: $95,000 US / $130,000 CDN
LOCATION: Comox, Vancouver Island, BC
CONTACT: dawn@dawnpostnikoff.com
The Nordic Tug Legacy Meets Modern Comfort
What makes certain boats become beloved classics while others fade into obscurity? It comes down to thoughtful design, quality construction, and the ability to evolve with changing needs. The Nordic Tug 26 has earned its stellar reputation among serious boaters for precisely these reasons.
Ladybug showcases the best of what makes Nordic Tugs special – that distinctive red hull with crisp white cabin superstructure, warm teak accents, and those reassuring, sturdy lines that speak to both safety and character. But beyond her classic "tugboat" profile lies a vessel that's been thoughtfully upgraded to meet modern cruising expectations.
Crafted for BC Coastal Adventures
Having navigated the beautiful but demanding waters of British Columbia, Ladybug is perfectly suited for Pacific Northwest cruising. Her reliable Yanmar 4JH-HTE diesel engine (60hp) has been well-maintained with just 2,275 hours – a testament to her careful ownership and plenty of life ahead for your adventures.
For ease of maneuvering in tight marina spaces, Ladybug comes equipped with bow and stern thrusters , both upgraded in 2023– a significant upgrade that transforms docking from a stressful experience into a confident one. This feature alone sets her apart from many comparable vessels.
For added space and functionality, a custom railing has been installed on the upper deck, a large entry door has replaced the factory-installed lazarette hatch in the cockpit, and a teak swim platform provides easy access to the water off the stern.
Thoughtful Interior Living Space
Step inside and you'll immediately notice the warm, inviting atmosphere created by the stunning teak trim and comfortable furnishings. The layout makes brilliant use of space – a forward berth with storage beneath, a well-appointed head to starboard, a practical galley and comfortable dinette which converts into a double bunk.
The wheelhouse provides excellent visibility while underway and provides additional living space while anchored. The custom built teak drop-down table provides additional workspace while underway. And modern touches like the Wallas diesel stove (no propane to worry about), Espar heating system, and efficient refrigeration make extended cruising comfortable in any season.
Technical Excellence & Upgrades
I've always believed that what makes a boat truly special isn't just what's visible – it's the systems and upgrades that provide peace of mind while cruising. Ladybug shines in this regard with an impressive array of technology and equipment upgrades:
Navigation & Electronics
Raymarine Axiom 9 multifunction display system with transducer and integrated radar
ICOM IC-M302 VHF radio with DSC capability
Raymarine hydraulic autopilot with dedicated control head
Garmin Fishfinder 240 Blue depth sounder
Ritchie dash-mounted compass
Power Management System
Complete electrical upgrade with modern AC/DC distribution panels
Xantrex True Charge 40 3-bank battery charger for intelligent power management
Solar panels mounted on cabin top with dedicated charge controller
Blue Seas ACR system for optimized alternator charging
Smart Plug shore power connection for improved safety
Mechanical Systems
Lewmar Pro Series 1000 windlass with helm controls - installed in 2023
Bow and stern thrusters with dedicated controls and battery systems - rebuilt in 2023
PYI dripless shaft seal for worry-free engine operation
Hydraulic steering system with minimal maintenance requirements
Dual Parker MOD:500 FG fuel filtration system
Comfort & Convenience
Espar diesel cabin heater with hydronic circuit and powered vents for consistent, efficient heating
Wallas 85 DU SafeFlame diesel stove – no propane tanks needed
40 US gallon fresh water tank
Kuuma hot water tank (5 US gallons) with 120V and engine heating options
Techma electric flush macerating toilet with 20-gallon holding tank
Norcold AC/DC refrigerator for efficient food storage
Have you ever experienced that moment of deep satisfaction when everything on your boat just works the way it should? When every system has been thoughtfully designed and maintained, allowing you to focus on the joy of being on the water rather than troubleshooting problems? That's the experience Ladybug offers her next owner.
Custom Touches for Experienced Boaters
What I particularly appreciate about Ladybug are the small but significant details that show she's been owned by experienced boaters who understood what matters:
The snap davit system at the swim platform for easy dinghy management
Stainless steel boarding ladder mounted under the swim platform for safe water access
Teak swim platform that adds both beauty and functionality
Dickinson stainless steel BBQ mounted on the aft rail
Comprehensive bonding system throughout the vessel for corrosion protection
Canvas rail and door covers to protect the outer teak during the offseason
Ready for Your Next Chapter
There's a certain magic that happens when you find a boat that's been lovingly maintained by owners who truly care. Ladybug represents that rare find – a vessel with character and soul, yet equipped with the modern conveniences that make cruising enjoyable.
At $95,000 US, she represents exceptional value compared to newer production boats that lack her character and proven seaworthiness. More importantly, she's ready to continue building memories on the water without requiring the extensive updates or repairs often needed with vessels of similar vintage.
What stories will you write aboard Ladybug? What hidden coves and spectacular anchorages await your discovery?
Key Specifications
Length: 28'9" / 8.76m
Beam: 9'6" / 2.89m
Draft: 3'3" / 1.00m
Displacement: 9,500 lbs / 4300 kg
Engine: Yanmar 4JH-HTE 60hp diesel (just over 2,275 hours)
Fuel: 100 gallon / 378 liter aluminum tank
Water: 40 gallon / 151 liter capacity
Construction: FRP with encapsulated stringers and balsa core deck
Thrusters: Bow AND Stern for excellent maneuverability
Comfortable Cruising Speed: 6 - 9 knots
Current Location: Comox Valley Marina, Comox, BC
Complete documentation available including recent professional surveys and maintenance records.
Additional Equipment
Gala rib dinghy (Model A240) with Yamaha F2.5SM outboard
Two 8lb ABC dry chemical fire extinguishers
Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
Comprehensive ground tackle with 30# galvanized plow anchor and 275 feet of 3/8" chain
Contact dawn@dawnpostnikoff.com today to schedule a viewing of this exceptional vessel. Ladybug isn't just a boat – she's the beginning of your next adventure.