1988 DeFever 48 Trawler

Step aboard and the first thing you notice is how easy this DeFever is to live with day to day. Wide, secure side decks, stout rails, and well-placed handholds make moving around underway feel confident, even in a chop. The covered aft deck becomes a second salon in any weather, with room for chairs, a grill, and sundowners. Inside, the joinery has that warm, old-school trawler charm, with real wood that’s aged gracefully rather than trendy finishes that date quickly. Storage is everywhere—under settees, in deep lockers, and along the passageway—so long trips don’t feel like a game of Tetris. Thoughtful service access, from the lazarette to the electrical panels, reflects an owner-operator mindset rather than a dock-queen pedigree.

This 48-footer shines in local waters that demand both efficiency and seakeeping. Her hull form is happiest at trawler speeds, sipping fuel while giving you the range to hop between distant harbors without constantly hunting for a fuel dock. The covered side decks and generous overhangs are a real advantage in areas with strong sun and frequent showers, keeping decks drier and crew more comfortable. Shallow enough to explore tucked-away anchorages yet substantial enough to handle an afternoon squall with composure, she suits a cruising ground where conditions can change quickly. The comfortable accommodations make waiting out weather at anchor or on the hook a pleasure rather than a compromise.