Yachts for sale / Cruisers Yachts 48 Cantius

2012 Cruisers Yachts 48 Cantius

Red Wing, MN, US 48.4 ft · 14.5 ft' beam 2 cabins 30.41 kn kn top
Asking
$489,000
$459,000
Reduced by $30,000
Our Thoughts

This 2012 Cruisers Yachts 48 Cantius is a well-maintained freshwater express cruiser positioned as an accessible entry point into mid-range motor yacht ownership. Based in Red Wing, Minnesota, the vessel has been stored indoors with climate control, a practical consideration for Midwest boating.

The 48 Cantius measures 48.42 feet in length with a 14.5-foot beam and 3.42-foot draft, proportions that balance spacious interior volume with reasonable dockage flexibility. Twin Volvo Penta D6 IPS pod drives rated at 435 horsepower each deliver a cruising speed of approximately 20.86 knots and a maximum speed around 30.41 knots, typical performance for this class. The IPS pod propulsion system offers joystick control steering, a user-friendly feature that simplifies close-quarters maneuvering. With roughly 900 engine hours logged, the propulsion system has seen moderate use. A dynamic positioning system is installed, enabling station-keeping capability useful for anchoring or holding position without constant throttle input.

Power generation comes from a Kohler generator that was replaced in 2021. A 400-gallon fuel capacity supports extended cruising range, while the 80-gallon water tank accommodates typical liveaboard or week-long cruising needs. Recent spring service on engines and generator (April 2026) reflects ongoing maintenance attention.

The interior layout centers on a distinctive double salon configuration—an upper and lower salon space that creates an open, atrium-style feel throughout the main deck. This layout maximizes perceived space and natural light, a defining characteristic of the 48 Cantius design. The master stateroom includes a washer/dryer combination, a practical amenity for extended time away from home port.

Entertaining spaces are well-developed. The cockpit features U-shaped seating, a wet bar, grill, and refrigerator, supporting daytime entertaining and casual dining. Forward, a foredeck sunpad with secure railings provides additional lounging. A hydraulic swim platform capable of lifting a tender facilitates water sports and easy dinghy deployment.

Electronics include an updated Garmin display and autopilot, standard equipment for modern cruising. Starlink internet availability adds connectivity for remote work or communication while underway. Interior flooring has been updated, addressing one of the higher-wear areas in a cruising yacht.

The 100% freshwater history—never operated in saltwater—is a meaningful advantage for systems longevity and maintenance costs. Combined with climate-controlled storage and documented service, the vessel presents as a straightforward ownership prospect for buyers prioritizing a turnkey platform with established maintenance records and moderate engine hours.

Provided listing description Click to read the original broker text

Motivated Seller Willing To Provide Delivery Assistance Within The Great Lakes!06/12/2026 PRICE IMPROVEMENTNOW ASKING $459,000.00Spring Engines/Generator Service Completed 4/20/2026Presenting this 2012 Cruisers Yachts 48 Cantius, a modern freshwater express cruiser that has been 100% freshwater since new and exceptionally well maintained. Currently located in Red Wing, Minnesota, this yacht is stored in indoor heated storage and is easy to view, with heated storage available to local buyers. Key Specifications & Updates: Volvo Penta D6 IPS pod drives with approximately 900 hours Dynamic Positioning System for easy station keeping Updated Garmin display and autopilot Kohler generator replaced in 2021 Starlink internet available Updated interior flooringOne of the highlights of the 48 Cantius is the desirable “double salon” layout, creating an open, atrium-style feel with upper and lower salon spaces. Entertaining & Exterior Features: Cockpit with U-shaped seating, wet bar, grill, and refrigerator Foredeck with sunpad and secure railings Hydraulic swim platform capable of lifting a tenderThe master stateroom is equipped with a washer/dryer combo, adding convenience for extended cruising. With advanced systems, modern design, and excellent freshwater history, this Cruisers Yachts 48 Cantius represents an outstanding opportunity for buyers seeking a turnkey express cruiser.

2012 Cruisers Yachts 48 Cantius: A Freshwater Express Cruiser with Modern Systems and Sophisticated Layout
Overview
The 2012 Cruisers Yachts 48 Cantius is a 48-foot 5-inch express cruiser designed for confident freshwater and coastal cruising. This vessel has maintained freshwater-only operation since its launch, a distinction that significantly reduces corrosion concerns and extends the lifespan of hull systems, engines, and through-hull components. Currently positioned in Red Wing, Minnesota, and housed in indoor heated storage, the 48 Cantius combines practical cruising capability with entertaining-focused design, making it well-suited for buyers seeking a mid-sized express cruiser with established systems and a proven track record in freshwater environments. The 48 Cantius represents Cruisers Yachts' commitment to accessible luxury cruising, balancing performance, comfort, and usability in a platform that can operate efficiently on inland waterways, the Great Lakes, and coastal passages. With a beam of 14.5 feet and a draft of 3.42 feet, the vessel maintains reasonable proportions for marina transits while offering substantial interior volume and deck space typical of the 48-foot express cruiser category.
Propulsion and Performance
Power comes from a pair of Volvo Penta D6 IPS pod drives, each producing 435 horsepower, for a combined 870 horsepower. The IPS (Inboard Pod System) configuration provides several operational advantages over traditional shaft drives: the pods rotate 360 degrees, enabling precise directional control without a traditional rudder, improved fuel efficiency through optimized water flow, and better low-speed maneuverability. The 600 IPS designation refers to the pod size and configuration within the Volvo Penta IPS lineup. The vessel achieves a cruising speed of approximately 20.86 knots and a maximum speed of 30.41 knots, performance metrics typical of express cruisers in this size range. The 400-gallon fuel capacity supports extended cruising ranges while maintaining manageable weight distribution. The Dynamic Positioning System integrated with the IPS drives enables station-keeping without anchor deployment, a valuable feature for extended anchoring in calm conditions or for precise positioning during entertaining or water activities. The joystick steering control system simplifies helmsmanship, particularly at low speeds and during docking. Joystick systems reduce the physical effort required for tight maneuvering and allow the operator to control heading and lateral movement simultaneously, a significant advantage for single-operator or less experienced helm work in confined spaces.
Helm and Electronics
The helm station features updated Garmin display systems and integrated autopilot, providing modern navigation and helm automation. Garmin's chartplotting and sonar integration creates a unified electronic helm environment, allowing the operator to manage navigation, autopilot engagement, and real-time water data from a single interface. The autopilot system enables hands-free cruising on longer passages, reducing fatigue during extended transits. The Garmin electronics package supports vector and raster chart options, real-time weather data integration (when connected to external data sources), and sonar imagery for depth and bottom composition awareness. The updated displays reflect Cruisers Yachts' commitment to maintaining the vessel with contemporary navigation technology, eliminating the dated-systems concern common to older express cruisers.
Cabin and Interior Layout
The 48 Cantius features a distinctive "double salon" design that creates an open, atrium-style interior environment. This layout incorporates both upper and lower salon spaces, maximizing natural light, sightlines, and the sense of volume within the cabin. The double salon design is a hallmark of the Cantius model and distinguishes it from more traditional single-salon express cruisers, offering flexibility for entertaining, relaxation, and dining without the compartmentalized feeling of conventional layouts. The master stateroom is equipped with a washer/dryer combination unit, a practical addition that supports extended cruising and reduces the need for shore-side laundry services. This amenity is uncommon in express cruisers of this era and reflects thoughtful owner consideration for long-term liveaboard or extended-cruise scenarios. Updated interior flooring throughout the cabin indicates recent refurbishment and maintenance, addressing one of the primary wear areas in older vessels. New flooring enhances both aesthetics and functionality, improving traction, durability, and the overall interior presentation. The 80-gallon water capacity supports cabin operations, galley use, and head facilities for multi-day cruising without frequent refilling. Water capacity in this range is typical for express cruisers of this size and assumes standard freshwater cruising patterns rather than extended blue-water passages.
Entertaining and Exterior Features
The cockpit design centers on a U-shaped seating arrangement, creating an entertainment-focused aft deck environment. The U-shaped configuration maximizes seating capacity while maintaining sightlines and conversation flow. The integrated wet bar, grill, and refrigerator transform the cockpit into a functional outdoor kitchen and entertaining space, supporting casual dining, beverage service, and social gatherings while underway or at anchor. The foredeck features a sunpad with secure railings, providing a forward lounging area that takes advantage of natural light and forward views. The sunpad design is typical of express cruisers and offers an alternative relaxation space separate from the aft cockpit, useful for reading, sunbathing, or quiet observation during anchored periods. The hydraulic swim platform is capable of lifting a tender, a practical feature for owners operating with a dinghy or personal watercraft. The lift system eliminates manual tender handling and allows for secure storage of the tender during transit, improving safety and reducing drag compared to towed tender configurations.
Systems and Maintenance History
The Kohler generator was replaced in 2021, ensuring reliable shore-power independence and comfort systems operation during anchoring or periods without shore-side electrical connection. A five-year-old generator in a 2012 vessel represents a significant capital refresh, reducing the likelihood of generator-related repairs in the near term. The spring engines and generator service completed on April 20, 2026, indicates recent professional maintenance and seasonal preparation. Regular servicing of Volvo Penta diesel engines and generator systems supports reliability and extends component lifespan, particularly important in freshwater vessels where winterization and seasonal storage are common operational patterns. Starlink internet availability provides connectivity options for modern cruising, enabling work-from-aboard scenarios, weather routing, and communication with shore-side contacts during extended anchoring or cruising periods. Starlink integration reflects the owner's commitment to contemporary cruising infrastructure.
Why This Vessel Merits Consideration
The 2012 Cruisers Yachts 48 Cantius occupies a practical position in the express cruiser market: large enough to accommodate comfortable multi-day cruising with cabin amenities, efficient enough to operate economically on inland waterways and coastal routes, and equipped with modern helm and navigation systems that eliminate the dated-technology concern common to 2012-era vessels. The freshwater-only history, combined with recent systems upgrades (generator replacement, updated electronics, new flooring, and spring service), positions this vessel as a lower-risk acquisition compared to saltwater-exposed alternatives of the same age. The double salon layout and entertaining-focused cockpit design appeal to buyers prioritizing social cruising, family gathering, and waterfront entertaining over offshore fishing or speed-focused performance. The joystick control and IPS propulsion system reduce helmsmanship complexity, making the vessel accessible to operators with varying experience levels. The indoor heated storage in Minnesota provides convenient viewing and demonstrates professional care and protection from weather extremes. For buyers in the Great Lakes region or those seeking a capable freshwater express cruiser with established systems and recent service history, the 48 Cantius represents a well-maintained platform ready for immediate cruising or extended ownership.
Length
48.4 ft
Beam
14.5 ft'
Year
2012
Builder
Cruisers Yachts
Model
48 Cantius
Cabins
2
Max speed
30.41 kn kn
What type of boat is the 2012 Cruisers Yachts 48 Cantius and who is it designed for?
The 2012 Cruisers Yachts 48 Cantius is a freshwater express cruiser built for buyers who want a mid-sized motor yacht capable of both comfortable cruising and entertaining. At 48 feet with a beam of 14.5 feet, it's designed for families and groups seeking extended cruising range with modern amenities, rather than as a dedicated fishing platform. The double salon layout and full cabin accommodations make it well-suited for overnight and multi-day trips on inland waterways and larger freshwater lakes.
What engines power the 2012 Cruisers Yachts 48 Cantius and what kind of performance can you expect?
The 48 Cantius is powered by twin Volvo Penta D6 IPS pod drives, each producing 435 horsepower, for a combined 870 horsepower. The IPS (Inboard Pod System) configuration provides excellent fuel efficiency and maneuverability compared to traditional shaft drives. The vessel achieves a cruising speed of approximately 20.86 knots and a maximum speed of 30.41 knots, making it suitable for efficient long-distance cruising while maintaining reasonable fuel consumption with a 400-gallon fuel capacity.
What is the Dynamic Positioning System on this yacht and how does it benefit the owner?
The Dynamic Positioning System (DPS) uses the IPS pod drives to automatically maintain the vessel's position and heading without requiring anchor deployment or constant throttle adjustment. This feature is particularly valuable for entertaining, fishing, or simply holding position in wind and current while the owner focuses on guests or activities rather than boat handling. It reduces fatigue during extended time on the water and provides precise station-keeping capability.
What is the double salon layout and why is it considered a desirable feature?
The double salon layout features both an upper and lower salon space connected in an open, atrium-style design. This configuration creates a sense of spaciousness and allows multiple gathering areas for entertaining, separating social zones and providing flexibility for different activities. Rather than a single confined cabin space, the double salon provides better natural light, improved sightlines, and more comfortable entertaining capacity for groups—a key selling point for cruisers who prioritize onboard hospitality.
What are the sleeping and sanitary accommodations on the 48 Cantius?
The vessel features a master stateroom with a washer/dryer combo unit, adding significant convenience for extended cruising without relying on shore facilities. While specific details on additional cabin count are not provided in the listing, the double salon layout and express cruiser design typically accommodate multiple guests. The washer/dryer combination is a notable upgrade that distinguishes this vessel from comparable models and reduces the need for frequent marina stops.
What entertainment and dining features does the cockpit offer?
The cockpit is equipped with U-shaped seating, a wet bar, a grill, and a refrigerator, creating a full outdoor entertaining space. This configuration allows the owner to prepare and serve food and beverages without leaving the helm area, making it ideal for day cruising and social gatherings. The hydraulic swim platform capable of lifting a tender adds versatility for water activities and tender deployment.
How is the helm station configured and what navigation electronics are included?
The 48 Cantius features joystick control steering, which simplifies boat handling by allowing single-handed directional input rather than traditional wheel steering. This is particularly useful when maneuvering in tight spaces or when the Dynamic Positioning System is engaged. The vessel is equipped with an updated Garmin display and autopilot system, providing modern navigation, charting, and automatic course-keeping capability for extended cruising.
What is included in the foredeck area and how is it configured?
The foredeck features a sunpad with secure railings, providing a safe and comfortable space for relaxation, sunbathing, or forward-facing entertainment while anchored or cruising. The secure railings ensure safety for guests moving about the foredeck, and the sunpad design maximizes the use of the forward deck space for leisure purposes.
What mechanical and system upgrades have been completed on this vessel?
The Kohler generator was replaced in 2021, ensuring reliable electrical power generation for extended cruising away from shore power. The interior flooring has been updated, improving aesthetics and durability. Spring engines and generator service was completed on April 20, 2026, confirming that mechanical systems have been recently inspected and serviced. The vessel's freshwater-only history since new significantly reduces corrosion and wear compared to saltwater exposure.
What connectivity and storage features support extended cruising on the 48 Cantius?
The vessel is equipped with Starlink internet, providing reliable connectivity for communication, weather updates, and entertainment while cruising remote freshwater areas where traditional cellular service may be unavailable. With an 80-gallon water capacity and 400-gallon fuel capacity, the boat supports multi-day cruising without frequent refueling or water replenishment, and the updated interior accommodations including the washer/dryer combo reduce the need for frequent shore stops during extended trips.

Fly Yachts is pleased to assist you in the purchase of this vessel. This boat is centrally listed by Midwest Yacht Sales. It is offered as a convenience by this broker/dealer to its clients and is not intended to convey direct representation of a particular vessel.

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