Design and Construction
Berret-Racoupeau drew a powerful hull intended for demanding sailing conditions. The 48-2 measures 48.5 feet overall, with a 41.8-foot waterline and a 15.1-foot beam. Displacement is roughly 30,900 pounds, balanced by 8,600 pounds of iron ballast. These figures explain why the boat carries conviction offshore and place it in a narrow band of capable bluewater cruisers. Cruising World called it a perfect blue water cruiser and the essence of the builder’s craft, and the editors noted its thoroughbred style.
The sleek coachroof gives the boat a stylish, luxurious appearance while providing excellent forward visibility. Flush hatches and sail controls led aft keep the deck uncluttered, reinforcing the thoroughbred style noted by the editors.
Wauquiez’s modern construction method uses infused fiberglass with a balsa core in both the hull and deck for rigidity. That marks a step beyond the solid, hand-laid hulls of earlier generations. A structural grid is bonded into the hull.
Rig, Keel, and Handling
The 48-2 carries a fractional sloop rig with about 1,098 square feet of sail area. Its deck plan keeps the controls manageable for a small crew: lines lead back to the cockpit, centralizing maneuvers, and an optional self-tacking track can simplify short-handed sailing.
The helm station brings together the assistance needed for single-handed sailing, with oversized winches mounted at the wheel. The builder describes the arrangement as maintaining direct control over information during maneuvers.
According to the manufacturer, the hull is stiff and performs well at all speeds. That claim is consistent with the boat’s ballast-to-displacement ratio of nearly 28 percent. A spade rudder and bulb keel give the 48-2 predictable manners in close quarters and offshore. Standard draft is about 6.9 feet, with shorter and deeper options documented.
Pilot-Saloon Accommodations
Life aboard centers on the pilot-saloon concept, which blends the interior and exterior spaces. The cabins and living areas receive plenty of light and provide generous volume for the whole crew—a deliberate departure from the cave-like saloons of older designs. The coachroof sightlines also keep the helm visually connected to the horizon.
The cockpit follows the same approach. Designed by Wauquiez craftsmen to be practical, safe, and comfortable, it includes a transom that converts into a swim platform and provides easy access to a tender garage. A 36-litre refrigerator and optional adjustable ambient lighting help turn the cockpit into a sociable open-air lounge.
Equipment and Deck Details
The 48-2’s equipment reflects its small-crew cruising brief. The helm consolidates autopilot-style assistance without giving up manual control, while the flush hatches reduce tripping points on the foredeck.
Auxiliary power comes from a single 110-horsepower Yanmar diesel. For a boat of this displacement, it provides ample propulsion for making harbor in calm conditions or charging the batteries under load.
The Verdict
The Pilot Saloon 48-2 is a thoughtfully evolved bluewater cruiser, combining Wauquiez’s structural pedigree with a bright, sociable pilot-saloon layout. It is stiff and quick across the speed range, manageable short-handed, and built with modern infused-composite methods intended to provide rigidity without excess weight. The tender garage, swim platform, and light-filled accommodations make it as livable at anchor as it is competent at sea.
Pros
- Stiff, capable hull documented to perform well at all speeds
- Pilot-saloon layout with excellent forward visibility and light-filled living spaces
- Deck and cockpit arranged for small-crew or single-handed cruising
- Modern, balsa-cored infused construction with a structural grid
Cons
- The sub-7-foot standard draft limits access to some shallow cruising grounds
- Cockpit amenities and optional lighting suggest a premium, equipment-heavy ownership profile
