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Sailboat Specifications

Bowman 48

Cutter · Fin With Rudder On Skeg

Designed by C.w. Paine Yacht Design Inc. · Built by Southern Boatbuilding Co. · First built 1981

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LOA 48.16 ft  ·  Beam 14.16 ft  ·  Displacement 34,330.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 1,066.00 ft²  ·  Cutter  ·  Fin With Rudder On Skeg
About the Bowman 48 Sailboat

Built during the late 1970s and early 1980s, this substantial cruising yacht represents a classic example of British yacht design from the era when solid, seaworthy construction took precedence over racing-oriented performance metrics. Bowman yachts established a reputation for building robust, well-engineered boats that prioritized comfort and reliability over speed. The 48-footer embodies the traditional cruising philosophy with generous interior volume, comfortable accommodations, and the kind of reassuring build quality that makes long-distance voyaging a realistic proposition. Her substantial displacement and moderate sail plan create a predictable, manageable sailing experience that appeals to couples and families planning extended coastal passages or offshore adventures. While not particularly fast by modern standards, this yacht compensates with excellent load-carrying capacity and impressive seaworthiness. The design reflects an era when yacht builders focused on creating boats that could handle challenging conditions while maintaining crew comfort over extended periods. For sailors seeking a proven offshore cruiser with traditional styling and dependable construction, the Bowman 48 offers the kind of substantial, no-nonsense sailing experience that has made British-built yachts respected worldwide among serious cruising sailors.

Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 48.16 ft / 14.68 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 38.25 ft / 11.66 m
Beam 14.16 ft / 4.32 m
Max Draft 6.00 ft / 1.83 m
Displacement 34,330.00 lb / 15,572 kg
Ballast 10,659.00 lb / 4,835 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 1,066.00 ft² / 99.03 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin with rudder on skeg
Rigging Type Cutter
Construction FG
Designer C.W. Paine Yacht Design Inc.
Builder Southern Boatbuilding Co.
First Built 1981
Related Sailboats Tartan 48 · Oyster 48 Lightwave · Hinckley 48 · X 482 · Malo 47
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Engine & Accommodations
Fuel Capacity 100
Water Capacity 200
Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Bowman 48's sail area to displacement ratio?

The Bowman 48 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 16.21. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Bowman 48's comfort ratio?

The Bowman 48 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 37.73. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Bowman 48 safe for offshore sailing?

The Bowman 48 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.75. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Bowman 48?

The theoretical hull speed of the Bowman 48 is 8.29 knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Bowman 48 weigh?

The Bowman 48 has a displacement of 34,330.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 48.16 ft.

Who designed the Bowman 48?

The Bowman 48 was designed by C.w. Paine Yacht Design Inc., first built in 1981.