1981 DeFever Formosa 40

Step aboard and you immediately feel how thoughtfully this DeFever has been set up for real cruising life. The side decks are generous and secure, making line handling and anchoring relaxed even short-handed. Up top, the flybridge layout invites long passages at the helm with friends gathered around, rather than perching on narrow benches. Inside, the galley is arranged for cooking underway, with smart storage for full-time living rather than weekend picnics. Engine-room access is straightforward, encouraging regular checks and easy service. Ventilation and light are better than many boats of this era, so the interior feels inviting, not cave-like. It’s the kind of trawler that makes slow, purposeful miles feel like a privilege, not a chore.

For this cruising area’s mix of tight harbors, open stretches, and occasional sloppy chop, the DeFever Formosa 40 hits a sweet spot. The tri-cabin layout gives guests and owners real privacy during extended stays aboard, while the bright salon works well as a central gathering space on rainy days. Twin engines offer confident maneuvering in crowded marinas and added redundancy when you’re stretching your range between fuel docks. The covered side decks and solid railings make docking in gusty conditions less stressful. With substantial tankage and a comfortable displacement hull, this design is well suited to slow, economical passages between anchorages, then settling in as a cozy, stable floating home once you arrive.