Bavaria Bavaria Cruiser 47 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Cruiser 47 is characterized by a moderate-to-heavy displacement hull that provides a stable, predictable motion in a seaway. With a displacement of approximately 25,000 lbs and a sail area of roughly 1,200 square feet, the boat carries a Sail Area/Displacement (SA/Disp) ratio in the high 18s to low 20s, depending on the chosen rig. This indicates a vessel that requires a decent breeze to truly come alive but maintains momentum well once powered up.

According to technical assessments by J&J Design, the hull features a relatively deep entry and a broad transom, which necessitates the twin-wheel configuration to maintain visibility and control when heeled. Under sail, the boat exhibits high initial stability, making it a comfortable platform for families. However, like many high-volume production boats of this era, it can experience significant weather helm if over-canvased; reefing early is generally recommended to maintain balance. The standard Seldén fractional rig and optional in-mast furling make it easily handled by a couple, though the sheer windage of the high topsides can make docking in crosswinds a task that requires confident use of the bow thruster.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Cruiser 47 is where the "Cruiser" designation is most evident. Bavaria utilized a modular construction approach that allowed for two primary layouts: a three-cabin "owner" version and a four-cabin "charter" configuration. In the four-cabin variant, the forward section is split into two symmetrical cabins, while the three-cabin version offers a massive V-berth with an en-suite head and separate shower stall.

The salon is notably bright, thanks to a plethora of deck hatches and linear hull ports. The joinery typically features Bosse mahogany or light oak veneers, which were a hallmark of the Bavaria Yachts production line during this period. The galley is arranged in a linear fashion along the port side, providing ample counter space but offering fewer bracing points for cooking while underway compared to a traditional U-shaped galley. Headroom is exceptional, exceeding 6'5" in the main salon, which contributes to the "apartment-like" feel that made this model a favorite for Mediterranean holiday charters.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should focus on several specific areas common to the Bavaria Cruiser line of this vintage:

1. Grid Bonding and Keel Bolts: The internal fiberglass grid (the matrix) provides the hull's structural stiffness. Buyers should inspect the bond between the grid and the hull, particularly around the keel sump, for any signs of cracking or "crazing" which could indicate a hard grounding.
2. Rudder Bearings: The large single spade rudder is subject to significant loads. It is common to find play in the lower rudder bearings; while a standard maintenance item, replacement requires dropping the rudder and can be labor-intensive.
3. Saildrive Diaphragm: Most units are powered by Volvo Penta engines with saildrives. The rubber diaphragm seal has a recommended replacement interval of seven years. If there is no record of this being performed, it should be a priority for the buyer.
4. Deck Hardware Sealing: Large panoramic deck windows and multiple hatches are prone to leaks if the sealant has degraded under UV exposure. Checking for water staining on the interior wood veneers is a critical step during a viewing.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Cruiser 47 are supported by a robust network of regional associations. The Bavaria Owners Association is the primary technical resource for English-speaking owners, offering a deep archive of manuals, spare parts cross-references, and discussion on specific modifications for the J&J designed hulls. Because the Cruiser 47 shares many components with its siblings, the 43 and 51, parts availability remains high through global distributors.

The Verdict

The Bavaria Cruiser 47 remains a highly competitive option on the used market for sailors who prioritize volume, cabin count, and ease of handling over raw speed or custom craftsmanship. It is a quintessential production cruiser that delivers significant "boat for the buck."

Pros:

• Exceptional interior volume and headroom for its class.
• Bright, well-ventilated salon with modern aesthetics.
• Simple sail-handling systems suitable for short-handed cruising.
• Twin-wheel configuration provides excellent visibility and cockpit access.

Cons:

• High windage can make low-speed maneuvering challenging.
• Linear galley is less secure than U-shaped designs when sailing offshore.
• Performance in light airs is hampered by the boat's displacement and wetted surface area.