Seafarer 48 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Seafarer 48 first graced the sailing world in 1969, making a notable appearance at the New York Boat Show where it was acclaimed as the "Queen of the show" and stood out as one of the largest sailboats ever exhibited there. Designed by the venerable firm of Sparkman & Stephens (S&S design #1956), the yacht was specifically intended as a racer-cruiser, reflecting S&S's reputation for creating vessels that combined competitive sailing characteristics with comfortable accommodations.

Seafarer Fiberglass Yachts, Inc., the Huntington, New York-based builder, had by this era transitioned from an importer to a prolific domestic manufacturer, known for their commitment to quality and collaboration with elite naval architects. During the period of the Seafarer 48's production, Seafarer's manufacturing ethos leaned towards "racing-inspired hull designs" while ensuring cruising comfort, a philosophy perfectly aligned with Sparkman & Stephens' vision for the 48. While the Seafarer 48 itself was the initial iteration of this design, it later served as the foundation for subsequent models produced by other builders, namely the Hughes 48 and Northstar 48. It is believed that fewer than five examples of the Seafarer 48 were built at the original Seafarer plant.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Seafarer 48 exhibits characteristics of a robust and stable offshore cruiser, well-suited for extended passages. With a calculated Sail Area to Displacement (SA/Disp) ratio of approximately 15.51, she is a reasonably good performer, though not a dedicated light-air racer. Her substantial Ballast to Displacement (Bal/Disp) ratio of around 0.523 is remarkably high, indicating exceptional stiffness and stability, allowing the yacht to stand up to a significant amount of wind and maintain an upright position in a seaway. Furthermore, a Displacement to Length (Disp/Length) ratio of approximately 372.58 firmly places her in the category of a heavy, traditional cruiser, affirming her suitability for blue-water sailing.

Anecdotal reports confirm that the Seafarer 48 is a "heavy sailboat which is a reasonably good performer" and is noted for being "very stable / stiff and has an excellent righting capability if capsized." The yawl rig configuration, common on this model, contributes to "better comfort and stability when sailing downwind or on a broad reach" and is generally considered easier to handle, particularly in varying wind conditions, by allowing for more versatile sail plans. Her fin keel and skeg-hung rudder further contribute to her directional stability and reliable steering.

Accommodations and Layout

Designed to accommodate up to eight people, the Seafarer 48 features two cabins in addition to its main salon, providing ample living space for extended cruising. The interior finish showcases a classic nautical aesthetic, utilizing Bruynzeel mahogany throughout, complemented by African mahogany solids, reflecting a commitment to quality materials and traditional craftsmanship. While specific details on storage and ventilation are not extensively documented, yachts of this caliber and era typically offered generous locker space, cabinetry, and well-placed opening ports and hatches to ensure comfort and practicality during long voyages. The substantial volume afforded by her 48-foot length overall and deep hull would allow for a comfortable V-berth forward, a spacious main salon with settee berths, a functional galley, and a dedicated head compartment, consistent with her design as a comfortable blue-water cruiser.