Islander 48 C Information, Review, Specs

The Islander 48 C emerged during a period when Islander Yachts, a company with roots in California's fiberglass boat-building boom, was known for producing well-designed cruising yachts. Production for the Islander 48 C spanned from 1982 to 1985, with only six units built under the Islander name. The builder's ethos at the time focused on creating durable and comfortable vessels, a characteristic evident in the 48 C's fiberglass solid hull and deck construction., 5]

The design by Ted Brewer, a respected naval architect, aimed for a capable cruiser. Brewer's designs generally emphasize seaworthiness and practicality, and the Islander 48 C reflects this philosophy with its moderate displacement and efficient lines. The vessel was originally offered with either a sloop or cutter rig, providing flexibility for owners. Notably, the molds for the Islander 48 were transported eastward, leading to its production as the Mariner 47 by Mariner Yacht Co., further cementing the design's influence in the yachting market., 4, 8]

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Islander 48 C is characterized as a reasonably good performer, well-suited for a variety of sailing conditions. With a total calculated sail area of approximately 1006 square feet and a displacement of 29,125 pounds, its sail area to displacement ratio is around 18.25. This indicates a generous sail plan that contributes to good performance, particularly in lighter air.

The boat's stability and stiffness are supported by a ballast of 11,000 pounds, resulting in a ballast to displacement ratio of about 0.377. This solid ratio suggests the vessel can stand up well to a strong breeze and offers a comfortable motion in a seaway. Furthermore, a displacement to length ratio of approximately 256.6 places the Islander 48 C in the category of a moderately heavy cruiser, balancing speed with comfort and robust construction. Owners often praise its "excellent seakeeping" capabilities. The skeg-hung rudder further contributes to predictable handling and provides robust protection for the rudder assembly.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific interior diagrams for the Islander 48 C can be scarce, general reviews and the builder's reputation suggest spacious accommodations and comfortable interiors were a hallmark of Islander yachts., 17] The boat's nearly 48-foot length overall and broad beam of 13.83 feet allow for substantial living space below deck. The interior layout typically features a well-appointed salon, a galley, and private sleeping quarters, designed to cater to extended cruising.

The substantial water capacity of 255 gallons further underscores its design for liveaboard comfort and longer voyages. Owners have noted that the distance from the galley to the cockpit can be a minor inconvenience for serving drinks while under sail, which provides an insight into the typical arrangement of these spaces. The construction utilizes a fiberglass solid hull, ensuring durability and ease of maintenance for the interior structure.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Islander 48 C (and its Mariner 47 counterpart) generally appreciate its solid construction and seaworthy characteristics, qualities for which Islander Yachts were well-regarded. The vessel's ability to handle various sea states comfortably is a frequently lauded attribute. While specific common problems unique to the Islander 48 C are not widely documented, the general experience with similar vintage cruising boats suggests that typical maintenance considerations like electrical system updates may arise over time. The enduring appeal of these Ted Brewer designs is evidenced by continued owner interest and discussions in online forums.