The 1979 Hatteras 46 Convertible is a true classic—an enduring example of Hatteras’ reputation for rugged construction, offshore capability, and timeless design. Built during an era when yachts were over-engineered for strength and longevity, this 46 Convertible remains one of the most respected sportfishing platforms ever produced.
Below deck, the interior showcases classic Hatteras craftsmanship with a warm, practical layout. Spacious accommodations typically include two staterooms, a generous salon, and a well-equipped galley—making her equally suited for extended cruising or comfortable weekends aboard.
Whether you’re drawn to her pedigree as a tournament-capable sportfish or her appeal as a solid cruising yacht, the 46 Convertible represents a rare combination of durability, performance, and heritage. For buyers seeking a proven offshore vessel with classic lines and modern upgrade potential, this Hatteras is an opportunity not to be missed.
Hull and Construction
Working on a Dream is built on Hatteras's proven one-piece molded fiberglass planing hull, constructed in four integral sections — hull, superstructure, aft cockpit deck, and flybridge — each bonded and mechanically fastened into a single structural unit. The deck and superstructure utilize cored fiberglass laminate sandwich construction, delivering maximum rigidity at minimum weight. Four molded fiberglass longitudinal stringers filled with rigid polyurethane foam are fiberglass-bonded to the hull, and transverse wooden bulkheads are bonded in place during the molding process. The hull-to-deck joint is both bonded and bolted. All sea cocks are bronze ball valves. Framing is fiberglass with fiberglass bulkheads throughout.
Engines and Mechanical
Engines:
Working on a Dream is powered by twin Detroit Diesel 8V71TI engines producing 450 horsepower each, fully rebuilt in 2006— Proven and celebrated power-plants for their time fitted to a classic American sportfisherman. Each engine is paired with an Allison M15 marine transmission at 1.5:1 reduction ratio, fresh water cooled, with 51-amp alternators. Twin 2" stainless steel propeller shafts drive 26" x 26" four-blade bronze propellers by Michigan Wheel. The fuel system comprises three fiberglass tanks with a total capacity of 650 gallons, copper fuel supply lines and vents, Type A-2 deck fills, and a triple Racor filter setup — dual Racor 1000FG and one Racor 500FG. Engine controls are push/pull cable with a Glendenning engine synchronizer for smooth single-lever operation.
Generator:
Onboard AC power is provided by an Onan 15.0 kW generator (Model OMDMF/3CR/2268AA, Serial No. L780381681), operating at 1,800 RPM and sized to handle all electrical equipment loads with ease.
Electrical, Electronics, & Navigation
Working on a Dream operates on a fully integrated 12v DC and 120v AC electrical system with 50-amp shore power. The battery bank consists of six Group 8D batteries maintained by a 110v/50-amp AC battery charger. Wiring is multi-strand plastic-coated copper throughout.
Her navigation and electronics suite is a comprehensive offshore package: Furuno 6kw open array radar, Furuno Navnet 10" GPS chartplotter, Furuno sounder module fathometer, Robertson AP20 autopilot, Northstar 951X GPS, Northstar 800 Loran, Standard Horizon GX2360X VHF radio, Ritchie compass, and a KVH Tracvision satellite communications dome.
Accommodations
Working on a Dream accommodates six in comfort across a main salon, double bunk V-berth forward, and a private master stateroom. Cabin sole is carpet over plywood; interior finishes are fabric liners and oiled teak with cushions on all berths. The full galley is equipped with a Princess 3-burner stove with oven and a GE side-by-side refrigerator. Fresh water is supplied from a 188-gallon tank with pressure hot and cold delivery throughout. Two electric Galley Maid marine heads serve two separate heads with showers, plumbed to a USCG-approved fiberglass MSD Type 3 holding tank. An 11-gallon stainless steel water heater provides hot water via 115v AC element. Two-zone heat and air conditioning keep the interior comfortable in any season, and a 19" television completes the accommodations package.
Equipment List
- Twin Detroit Diesel 8V71TI, 450 hp each — fully rebuilt 2006, low hours
- Allison M15 marine gears, 1.5:1 reduction
- Onan 15.0 kW generator
- 650-gallon fuel capacity (3 fiberglass tanks)
- Triple Racor fuel filtration — (2) 1000FG, (1) 500FG
- Six Group 8D batteries / 50-amp shore power
- Glendenning engine synchronizer
- Furuno 6kw open array radar
- Furuno Navnet 10" GPS chartplotter
- Furuno sounder module fathometer
- Robertson AP20 autopilot
- Northstar 951X GPS
- Northstar 800 Loran
- Standard Horizon GX2360X VHF radio
- KVH Tracvision satellite communications dome
- Ritchie compass
- Tuna tower with helm controls & buggy top
- Bridge hard top with full canvas
- 2-zone heat / air conditioning
- High-pressure 120v AC washdown pump
- Two remote spotlights
- Bridge air compressor with horns
- 11-gallon stainless steel water heater
- GE side-by-side refrigerator
- Princess 3-burner stove with oven
- Two electric Galley Maid marine heads
- USCG-approved fiberglass MSD Type 3 holding tank
- 188-gallon fresh water tank
- Transom door
- Hydraulic steering
- Danforth anchors — #20H and #40H
Mechanical Disclaimer
Engine and generator hours are as of the date of the original listing and are a representation of what the listing broker is told by the owner and/or actual reading of the engine hour meters. The broker cannot guarantee the true hours. It is the responsibility of the purchaser and/or his agent to verify engine hours, warranties implied or otherwise and major overhauls as well as all other representations noted on the listing brochure.
Disclaimer
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.