The 48 Express Cruiser

Over the past ten years Van Gorkom Yacht Design has worked with some of Maine’s best boat builders in the development of their product lines. Through this involvement, we have formed a true appreciation for the down east power boat. VGYD have taken this classic style and combined it with a more contemporary under-body and modern structural materials and laminate techniques to create, what we believe to be, the next evolution in motor yachts, the 48 Express Cruiser.

The 48 Express Cruiser is an incredibly handsome and versatile yacht. Every feature of this design has been meticulously thought out, from the plush yet functional and light weight interior, to the mechanical space, to its predicted performance on the water. The 48 Express Cruiser has a fast, efficient hull form that takes full advantage of an optimized beam/length ratio and derives a smooth stable ride from the moderate V-hull, which has a 15 degree deadrise at the transom. Above the waterline, the topsides take on that classic elegance with a gently flaring bow fairing in to a pleasing tumblehome in the after sections. And to complete the overall aesthetics, the trademark reverse transom gives the boat that little bit of a modern edge.

The 48 Express Cruiser is driven by twin Yanmar 900hp turbo diesel engines and ZF-drive systems that guarantee a fast and quiet ride with top speeds estimated at 37 knots and 32 knots cruising. The total fuel capacity is 800 gallons, giving the boat a range of approximately 400 miles. The boat also carries 150 gallons of fresh water.

Using a high-tech combination of Kevlar, e-glass and foam core with vinyl ester resin, the hull structure is designed to be relatively lightweight yet extremely strong and impact resistant. Carbon fiber unidirectional material is used in the caps of the stringers and frames ensuring longitudinal and torsional stiffness. The deck is an e-glass and foam sandwich laminate.

The 48 Express Cruiser is beautifully appointed with many classic features including mahogany trim, a teak deck overlay in the cockpit, a teak and holly cabin sole, and rich all-weather upholstery. It is also outfitted with modern amenities and equipment such as a microwave, a state-of-the-art sound system, a helm station with complete navigational and system readouts, a convenient swim platform with walk through access. This down east power boat comes with two interior layouts to choose from – one with a double cabin forward or a spacious single master cabin. In addition, this design lends itself to be fitted out as a sports fisherman with a flybridge configuration and fighting chairs and fish wells added to the cockpit.