The Islander 48C is a large offshore cruising sloop designed by Edward S. Brewer and built by Islander and Tradewind Yachts between 1982 and 1985, using the molds originally produced for the Mariner 47 after that company closed following approximately seven or eight hulls. Brewer''s design features a fin keel with skeg-hung rudder, a seakindly hull form suited to blue-water passages, and a spacious interior with multiple staterooms appropriate for extended offshore cruising or charter use. With a displacement of 29,500 pounds, ballast of 11,500 pounds of lead, and 1,004 square feet of sail, the 48C offers a balanced combination of offshore stability and sailing performance. Only approximately six hulls were completed as Islander 48Cs, making it a rare boat today; examples that have survived are generally well regarded by their owners for their offshore capability and Brewer''s thoughtful design.
No owner reviews yet — be the first to share your experience with this boat.
What is the Islander 48C's sail area to displacement ratio?
The Islander 48C has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 16.83. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.
What is the Islander 48C's comfort ratio?
The Islander 48C has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 34.08. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.
Is the Islander 48C safe for offshore sailing?
The Islander 48C has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.79. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.
What is the hull speed of the Islander 48C?
The theoretical hull speed of the Islander 48C is 8.15 knots, calculated from its waterline length.
How much does a Islander 48C weigh?
The Islander 48C has a displacement of 29,500 and a length overall (LOA) of 47.50.
Who designed the Islander 48C?
The Islander 48C was designed by Edward S. Brewer, first built in 1982.