Stabila 840 now in the online auction. everyone can bid until 20 April 2026.
Stabila 840 (1980) steel motorboat with aft cabin – comfortable cruising on inland waters
The 1980 Stabila 840 is a characterful steel motorboat with a hard-chine hull, built in Friesland (IJlst) and designed for relaxed cruising on lakes, waterways, rivers and urban canals. With a length of 8.40 metres and a beam of 3.12 metres, this model offers a pleasant balance of onboard space and easy handling in the marina. Thanks to the limited draft of approx. 0.80 metres and an air draft of about 2.40 metres, this Stabila 840 is an interesting option for those who enjoy routes with bridges and low clearances, such as sections of canals, waterways and routes connecting to the “Standing Mast Routeâ€.
Stabila 840 now in the online auction. Everyone can bid up to and including 20 April 2026.
Hull, handling and intended use
The steel hard-chine hull gives the boat stable and predictable handling, which is especially appreciated on inland waters and in changing conditions on open lakes. The weight of approx. 7,000 kg contributes to a calm, steady ride. Steering is via a wheel from an inside helm station, making cruising in less settled weather or on cooler days more comfortable.
This motorboat has been used for day trips, weekends away and holidays—well suited to the character of the Stabila 840: a practical cruising boat for both leisurely outings and longer passages. The owner mentions trips through the canals of Utrecht and the Standing Mast Route through Amsterdam as highlights—routes where manoeuvrability, visibility and a comfortable layout really come into their own.
Engine and performance: Vetus diesel inboard
Propulsion is provided by a Vetus inboard diesel engine (model M328K602A) with 27 hp and three cylinders, electric start. This output matches the intended use well: relaxed cruising with a cruising speed around 10 km/h and a top speed of approx. 12 km/h. Reported fuel consumption is around 1.5 litres per hour, making the boat attractive for longer cruising days with manageable fuel costs. The diesel tank has a capacity of about 200 litres, allowing a generous range for multi-day trips. A tachometer is fitted for basic engine monitoring. The boat was out of the water in 2025 and received an antifouling treatment in 2025.
Layout and comfort: aft cabin and headroom
A key advantage of this Stabila 840 is the aft cabin. This layout provides extra privacy and makes life onboard more comfortable, especially when cruising with several people. The fixed berths accommodate three people, plus two additional berths for guests or (grand)children. With an interior headroom of approx. 1.90 metres, the living space is comfortably usable for many people, also during longer stays onboard.
The accommodation is fitted with a dinette, mattresses, a refrigerator and a cooker. The owner indicates that relocating the cooker creates additional counter space, which in practice makes cooking and everyday onboard use noticeably more pleasant. Heating is provided by hot-air heating, extending the cruising season and offering a comfortable interior temperature in spring and autumn as well.
Sanitary, water and practical facilities
The boat is equipped with a manual toilet, discharging directly to open water. The water tank has a capacity of approx. 75 litres, suitable for weekend use or short holidays, especially if you regularly moor at marinas or visitor berths.
Electrical system, shore power and onboard energy
Onboard there is a 12V and 220V system including shore power, battery charger, alternator, inverter and voltmeter. The inverter is specified as 3000W, enabling the use of 230V appliances when not connected to shore power. There are two batteries with a total capacity of approx. 225Ah. A solar panel is also present; it works but needs to be reconnected. In addition, there is a new electric bilge pump that still needs to be connected. These are points of attention for a buyer who wants to further optimise the electrical equipment.
Deck equipment and outdoor living
Outside, the boat is equipped with a cockpit tent, davits, guardrails, a bathing platform and a swim ladder. This makes time spent in the cockpit attractive and practical, and the bathing platform adds enjoyment on summer days on lakes and waterways. Fenders and lines are included, making mooring easier. There are two anchors with chain and line, useful for breaks on quiet water or as extra security while cruising.
Point of attention and overall impression
According to the information provided, the boat is in reasonable condition. A known point of attention is a leaking rear window rubber seal, something to factor into plans for comfort and watertightness. Anyone looking for a steel motorboat with an aft cabin, a practical layout, a Vetus diesel engine and a size suitable for both inland waters and urban routes will find this Stabila 840 an interesting starting point for plenty of cruising enjoyment and comfortable touring.
