Yacht Seized in Smuggling Operation Heads to Unreserved Government Auction
24th Jul 2026
A sailing yacht seized during a law enforcement operation is set to go under the hammer with no reserve at Wilsons Auctions later this month.
The Colvic UFO 34 “Uforia”, a renowned Holman & Pye-designed cruiser-racer with a respected offshore pedigree, will be offered to the highest bidder as part of an upcoming Unreserved Government Auction. The vessel was seized on behalf of a government agency following a law enforcement investigation into a law enforcement operation.
The yacht presents a rare opportunity for boating enthusiasts to acquire a classic cruiser-racer through the public auction process. Offered without reserve, the vessel will be sold to the highest bidder, regardless of price. Located in Gosport, Hampshire, the vessel offers significant potential for restoration, upgrade, or immediate recreational use.
Christian Owen, Government Contracts Sales Co-ordinator at Wilsons Auctions went on to say, “The UFO 34 is a highly respected design with a proven reputation for offshore cruising and racing performance. The vessel is being sold in its current condition and it will be the highest bidder on the day of the auction who will walk away as the new owner. From luxury vehicles and fine art to specialist marine assets such as Uforia, this sale demonstrates the diverse range of assets Wilsons Auctions handles on behalf of public and private sector clients across the UK and Ireland.”
Prospective buyers will have the opportunity to inspect the yacht in person prior to the auction on Tuesday 28 July between 10am and 4pm. Viewing will take place in Gosport, Hampshire, with advance registration required.
Presented as a timed online auction, bidding will open at 11am on Thursday 30 July 2026. Registered bidders will have a 24-hour window to place bids before the auction begins closing from 11am on Friday 31 July 2026.
The auction is open to the public, with bidding taking place exclusively online. Interested bidders can register in advance via the Wilsons Auctions website and view the full catalogue, auction details and bidding information at www.wilsonsauctions.com.
For further information on the vessel, auction details or viewing arrangements, contact Christian Owen at christianowen@wilsonsauctions.com.
