Introduction to Beneteau Yachts Swift Trawler 48
The Beneteau Yachts Swift Trawler 48 is a boat that brings together practicality, comfort, and smart engineering. People who look for a dependable, spacious, and well-equipped boat for trips of all types can find what they need in this model. For anyone new to the boating world or those who have been out on the water for years, the Swift Trawler 48 is designed to make every journey manageable, fun, and low stress. The strong build and easy-to-use features make this boat well-suited for groups or families who value both relaxation and adventure. If your goal is to enjoy time on the water without much complication, this boat was made with your ideas in mind.
Detailed Dimensions and Hull Construction
The Swift Trawler 48 measures 48 feet in overall length, with a hull length of 44 feet and 1 inch (13.43 meters). It has a wide beam of 14 feet and 9 inches (4.5 meters), giving plenty of living and deck space. The draft, which is the depth below the waterline, is about 3 feet and 10 inches, so the boat can reach a variety of marinas and anchorages without trouble. The hull is constructed from strong fiberglass materials, adding to the boat’s reliability and making it lighter yet tough in a range of conditions. The design uses a semi-planing hull, which means it offers both speed and stability.
The hull shape is designed for stable cruising whether at slow or faster speeds. This type of hull gives a smoother ride and helps the boat move efficiently through the water. You’ll also notice the hard chines and deep bow entry, features that help cut through wakes and waves. Most people will find the wide, flat aft section useful for adding stability when at anchor or moving slowly.
Exterior Features and Visibility
From the outside, the Swift Trawler 48 has a profile that is easy to spot—distinctive lines combined with practical details. The side decks are wide and have high stainless steel guardrails, providing reassurance for users of all ages. Plenty of non-slip surface treatments cover the decks to reduce chances of slipping, even with wet feet.
Moving from the cockpit to the bow is simple, thanks to the broad side decks, making it safer when docking, setting lines, or just enjoying a walk around the boat. Windows throughout the main deck and saloon are large and contoured, letting in natural light and affording good views from nearly all angles inside. The pilot house door allows the operator to step directly onto the deck, making docking much more manageable, especially for those operating the boat alone or with one other person.
At the bow, there is a sun pad with headrests for lounging. Sturdy cleats and a strong windlass system for anchoring tasks are positioned at the bow, and you’ll find controls available on deck, reducing the need to run back and forth. The stern cockpit features a wide, teak-covered deck that holds a big table and bench seat, useful for open-air meals or relaxing while stopped.
Flybridge and Outdoor Entertaining
One of the main social hubs is the large flybridge. Here, a helm station offers all the main controls and navigation systems, putting the operator in a comfortable seat with excellent visibility. There’s enough space on the flybridge for multiple people to join, with a big L-shaped bench on the port side and ample table space. There’s also a wet bar with a sink and built-in fridge that lets you keep drinks and snacks handy.
On the aft of the flybridge, a big sun pad supplies even more options for sunbathing or extra seating. The flybridge is covered by a sturdy, removable bimini top for those who want sun protection or shade when needed. Stainless handrails provide security while moving about the upper deck.
A major feature is the ease of transition between living areas and decks, so groups and families can take full advantage of every part of the boat. Access up and down from the flybridge is provided by a wide stairway with non-slip steps and strong railings. The design is practical and intended to help guests move safely, even with plates, drinks, or small children.
Main Deck Cockpit and Swim Platform
The cockpit at the back of the main deck is one of the best spots for relaxing. The area is shaded by the flybridge above, providing a cool retreat from the midday sun. There’s a big bench seat on the transom, and a teak table can be set up for outdoor dining. Lockers beneath the seating area store gear and personal items.
The Swift Trawler 48 also comes with a big hydraulic swim platform at the stern. This platform can lower into the water, making it easy to launch a tender, stow water toys, or swim. The side gates in the cockpit make it easy to board from a dock, while ladders and grab rails help people transition in and out of the water.
Galley and Food Preparation
A standout feature for boating families or anyone who enjoys longer trips is the full-size galley on the main deck. Located starboard and forward of the saloon seating, the galley is loaded with a big refrigerator and freezer, a gas or electric cooktop (depending on region), an oven, a microwave compartment, and generous countertop space for food prep. Plenty of cabinets and deep drawers provide space for cookware, plates, and groceries.
This setup makes it easy to prepare and share meals on board, whether it’s quick lunches between anchorages or full dinners for groups. The galley’s open layout connects visually with the saloon and cockpit, so whoever is cooking stays part of the group.
Saloon and Dining Area
Inside, the saloon is a bright, open space that offers both relaxation and practicality. The standard layout includes a large U-shaped settee on the port side with a high-low table, which can convert for dining or serve as an extra berth when needed. Forward facing seats mean passengers can enjoy the views underway. Opposite the settee, storage units and optional stools provide added seating or utility.
Sliding glass doors connect the saloon to the cockpit, so air flows easily throughout the boat, and it’s simple to move between inside and outside relaxing areas. The upholstery, flooring options, and finishes are designed for durability and easy cleaning, suiting both busy family use and entertaining adult guests.
Sleeping Accommodations and Bathrooms
The Swift Trawler 48 is set up with three cabins, making it welcoming for family groups or guests. The owner’s cabin, situated forward, features a big island berth that is easy to access on both sides. There are nightstands, reading lights, and full wardrobes for clothing and personal items. Natural light pours in from large hull windows and an overhead hatch, which also helps with airflow and keeping the space bright. This cabin also has a dedicated bathroom and shower, complete with modern fixtures and storage for toiletries.
The starboard guest cabin has two single beds that can be converted into a double, so it’s flexible for couples or kids. There’s good closet space, reading lights, and a window. The port side cabin includes two bunks suitable for additional guests or children and has storage of its own. An extra shared bathroom with a shower is located nearby in the passageway, serving both guest cabins.
Both bathrooms make use of quality fixtures, including electric toilets, sinks with vanities, and shower stalls with doors that keep the rest of the space dry. Hot and cold water is available throughout. Having two full bathrooms with showers is a rare convenience in this size of boat and makes longer trips much easier.
Storage Options Everywhere
Practical storage is found everywhere, both in and out. The cockpit has deep lockers for lines, fenders, and deck equipment. The lazarette under the cockpit’s teak floor is big enough for spare gear, tools, or even folding bikes. In the saloon, drawers and cabinets keep tableware and other essentials ready. The galley’s smart use of corner spaces gives you more storage for dry goods and cookware than many boats this size.
In the cabins, there are substantial clothes closets and drawers. Beneath beds, extra lockers are good for seasonal gear, duffel bags, or bedding. The flybridge has storage integrated under the seat cushions for life jackets, cushions, and outdoor supplies.
Engine Room and Technical Installations
Access to the engine room on the Swift Trawler 48 is direct, making basic checks and maintenance simple. The space is organized, with clear labelling of valves and systems for cooling, fuel, and electrical. This approach makes it less intimidating for people not used to working with boat mechanics. It also makes the boat easier to service by professionals.
Twin Cummins QSB 6.7-liter diesels each run at 425 horsepower, with proven records for reliability and smooth operation. These engines allow for up to 20 knots top speed and easy cruising between 8 and 16 knots, depending on current, wind, and loading. Handling is supported by bow and stern thrusters, so you can make fine adjustments when docking or maneuvering in tight quarters. The engine setup also provides hydraulic power for key systems on board, such as the swim platform and windlass.
The electrical system includes a large bank of batteries so you can use lights, outlets, and appliances when not plugged in at a marina. An onboard generator ensures that air conditioning, heating, and galley appliances are available at anchor. The shore power system takes over when docked for quiet, efficient onboard energy. Water systems are pressurized and filtered, with capacity for about 169 gallons (640 liters) of fresh water.
Navigation and Safety Equipment
On the main and flybridge helms, the Swift Trawler 48 is equipped with advanced digital navigation systems, including touchscreen multifunction displays that combine GPS maps, radar, depth information, and engine data. The autopilot lets you maintain course without constant adjustments. A VHF radio system with Digital Selective Calling increases your ability to communicate with marinas or emergency contacts.
Special attention is paid to visibility and ergonomics at both helms – with adjustable seats, clear lines of sight, and all controls at arm’s reach. The instrumentation is simple and clean, making it approachable for operators of all experience levels.
For safe operation, there are automatic fire-suppression systems in the engine room, electric bilge pumps and alarms, and easily accessible safety equipment. Wide side decks, non-slip surfaces, and secure handholds throughout reduce the risk of slips or falls even in rough weather.
Ventilation, Lighting, and Comfort Systems
Natural ventilation is strong thanks to opening hatches in the cabins, sliding windows in the saloon, and opening doors at both the helm and cockpit. Combined with mechanical air conditioning or heating, you can adjust interior conditions to stay comfortable regardless of outside weather.
The interior lighting uses a mix of bright LED ceiling fixtures and adjustable reading lamps in the cabins and saloon. This lets you set the right mood for relaxing evenings or well-lit mornings.
High-quality insulation keeps the boat quiet even underway, and helps retain temperature, making sleeping and relaxing easier whether in a hot climate or when evenings turn cool.
Flybridge Helm and Comfort
At the flybridge helm, all major navigation and engine controls are present, so you can run the boat from up top with a commanding view. There is a comfortable captain’s chair that adjusts for height and position. The flybridge layout means that while underway, the operator can stay in touch with family or friends who are sitting nearby.
Entertainment options include built-in speakers for music, and pre-wiring for TV screens below decks.
Swim Platform and Water Access
The hydraulic swim platform at the stern is a standout feature. With the push of a button, it lowers right into the water, supporting water toys and tenders. This makes launching and retrieving a small inflatable, kayak, or personal watercraft easy for one person. Swim ladders are robust and simple to grip for different ages and abilities.
Cleats and rails are carefully positioned for tying up tenders, securing paddleboards, or bringing in gear from the water. Even the storage space for the boat hook is put right where you’ll need it.
Outdoor Grilling and Mealtime Options
The flybridge can be specified with a grill and extra fridge space, so outdoor meals are easy. The cockpit below offers space for a movable electric or gas grill. Indoors, the galley has a big fridge-freezer, oven, and cooktop. This range of choices means you can prepare meals wherever suits your plans for the day.
Dining tables are designed to be adjustable and easy to clean, with options for seating all guests comfortably whether in the cockpit, saloon, or flybridge.
Extended Cruising and Fuel Efficiency
The Swift Trawler 48’s hull and engine pairing is built for distance. At 9 knots, fuel efficiency is high, and you can cover several hundred nautical miles between refueling stops. The hull form is designed for “semi-displacement” cruising, striking a good balance between slow speed steadiness and quicker passages.
This means fuel consumption is lower than for many boats of similar size when running below top speed, providing peace of mind and more time exploring different destinations.
Water tankage and the ability to run appliances from the generator or shore power make the boat easy to live aboard for days or weeks at a time.
Safety and Emergency Preparedness
Equipment such as fire suppression in the engine room, well-marked emergency exits, and easy-to-access storage for life jackets and flares is provided. Handrails and non-skid surfaces are widespread, reducing slip risk in heavy weather.
Navigation lights are bright and use newer LED technology for visibility at night. Anchor lights and deck floodlights let you operate safely during night arrivals or departures. All control stations have emergency stop switches, and clearly labeled panels for electrical and machinery cutoffs.
Social, Family, and Group Use Cases
The layout of the Swift Trawler 48 encourages shared experiences. On weekends, families can host multi-generation groups with plenty of bedding, bathrooms, and separate living spaces. Social features like the cockpit table, flybridge seating, and bow lounge allow different groups to do their own thing while staying together.
Wide, open windows keep children and elder guests connected to outdoor views even when inside. The flat cockpit and wide swim platform make water access easy for all ages. Non-slip surfaces and sturdy grab rails add extra safety during busy days.
Friends can fish or BBQ from the back deck, enjoy music on the flybridge, or gather inside when weather turns. There are plenty of seating options and room for stowing recreational equipment like kayaks, paddleboards, or snorkeling gear.
Utility and Easy Upkeep
Surfaces on the Swift Trawler 48, both interior and exterior, are chosen for easy cleaning and long-term durability. Saloon flooring is resistant to spills and sand, and deck drains clear water quickly after a swim or rinse down.
Sea strainers, filters, and shut-off valves are placed where owners or technicians can reach them easily, making routine maintenance and system checks simple. This cuts down on time spent dealing with chores and gives you more freedom to relax or explore.
Flush-mount windows and hatches reduce leaks and drafts, and the overall construction aims for a watertight, well-insulated finish.
Technology, Connectivity, and Power
The Swift Trawler 48 comes prewired for satellite and internet systems, so it is possible to stay connected with shore or online resources even when cruising out of cell phone range. Charging points for devices are located in the saloon and each cabin. The entertainment system can be upgraded to include modern audio, TV, or streaming services.
LED lighting saves power and extends battery life, helping run other comforts when not plugged in at the dock. The generator is reliable and quiet, producing good electrical supply to the main appliances.
Climate Control for Year-Round Comfort
Quality air conditioning and heating units keep the living areas pleasant, whether you are exploring in summer sun or spending a crisp night at anchor. These climate systems have digital controls for different zones, letting you adjust each cabin or area to different needs—perfect for those who have family members who like different sleeping temperatures.
Storage for Adventure and Water Toys
The deck and cockpit lockers are built to fit kayaks, paddleboards, and fishing rods. There’s enough room below to store scuba gear, children’s toys, or folding bikes for land exploration in town. The flybridge sun pad and seating areas lift for more stowage, making it possible to bring everything you want on extended trips.
Waste Management and Environmental Care
Onboard waste and black water holding tanks mean you can anchor out longer between marina stops. Pump-out systems comply with strict environmental regulations where required. The engine and generator choices meet current emission standards to reduce environmental impact.
Drainage systems for decks and showers are carefully designed, with filters to keep water clean. Builder-selected hull and bottom paints use environmentally-conscious formulas.
Options and Customization
The Swift Trawler 48 offers several different layout and hardware options, depending on needs. Choices can include additional freezers, extra safety rails, upgraded upholstery materials, and different flooring types. Owners can select bimini tops or hardtops for the flybridge, add inverter packages, or personalize entertainment systems.
The flexibility means each owner tailors the boat for their most common uses—whether that’s family outings, couples’ cruising, or small-group adventures.
Support, Community, and Service
There is an active community of Beneteau Swift Trawler owners who exchange advice, organize group excursions, and share tips for maximizing the onboard experience. The builder and associated dealerships provide guides, documentation, and help with maintenance planning, upgrades, or troubleshooting common problems.
For those buying the Swift Trawler 48 new or pre-owned, regular events and group gatherings help new owners feel comfortable and ready for life on the water.
Summary
The Beneteau Swift Trawler 48 is a sensible choice for anyone who wants comfort, easy handling, and enough space for family or friends. Its design includes three cabins, two full bathrooms, a full galley, generous living and social zones, and practical storage. Twin reliable engines provide both speed and range, making the boat fit for long coastal trips or quick escapes to local anchorages. Safety, user-friendly technology, and comfortable features are included at every turn, so you can travel for the day, the weekend, or much longer if you choose.
If you are considering your first boat, or looking to step up to something with more space and usability, the Swift Trawler 48 stands out for its combination of quality construction and everyday features. To learn more about what this model can offer or to discuss how it might fit your plans, talk to a Fly Yachts team member today for personalized details and next steps.
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