More space, comfort and a smarter layout
At this year’s Biograd Boat Show, we had the opportunity to step aboard the new Dufour 48, successor to the popular Dufour 470. We focused on the five-cabin charter version and how it compares with the Oceanis 47, Bavaria C46 and Hanse 460.
Our first impression? A spacious, contemporary yacht with several thoughtful solutions for larger crews.
The Dufour 48 measures 15.29 m in length and 4.85 m in beam – 44 cm longer and 11 cm wider than its predecessor. Although these increases seem modest, the redesigned hull makes better use of interior volume, particularly forward.
The most noticeable changes concern the cockpit, interior layout and outdoor living areas.
One of the highlights is the pair of separate cockpit tables, leaving a clear walkway between them. It is a welcome detail when eight or ten people are sharing the cockpit
The tables can also be configured for lounging, while Dufour retains its distinctive concept of an outdoor galley at the stern.
The show yacht featured a fixed hardtop, offering additional protection from sun and rain. It could be particularly useful outside the peak summer season, although some sailors will prefer a more open cockpit.
The saloon feels bright and inviting. Large windows, light-coloured joinery and a generous dining table provide a comfortable communal space.
The galley runs along one side of the saloon and offers a useful worktop. On the show boat, a tall refrigerator was complemented by an additional lower cooling compartme
For a week-long charter with eight to ten guests, details like these often matter more than purely decorative features.
We viewed a five-cabin layout with four double cabins and a fifth cabin fitted with bunk beds.
This works well for families with children or groups of friends, but is less suitable for five couples expecting five equivalent double cabins.
The forward cabins appear bright and roomy, and the interior makes a positive first impression. Actual comfort, however, is best judged after spending time aboard.
Among modern five-cabin charter monohulls, we would highlight three direct alternatives:
| Model | Length | Beam |
|---|---|---|
| Dufour 48 | 15.29 m | 4.85 m |
| Oceanis 47 | approx. 14,6 m | approx. 4,5 m |
| Bavaria C46 | 14.91 m | 4.70 m |
| Hanse 460 | 14.60 m | 4.79 m |
Oceanis 47 – a similarly modern concept with a spacious cockpit and a five-cabin option. Slightly smaller than the Dufour, but still attractive for larger crews.
Bavaria C46 – close to the Dufour in size, with a generous cockpit and versatile cabin arrangements. Its range of cabin and bathroom configurations is particularly appealing.
Hanse 460 – slightly shorter but almost as wide. Its self-tacking jib is a familiar advantage when making manoeuvres under sail.
All four have their strengths. The right choice will depend on cabin layout, equipment and the way the crew plans to spend its holiday.
In the published offers we reviewed for summer 2027, the Hanse 460 is often among the more affordable choices, while Bavaria C46 and Dufour 48 are relatively close in price. In some comparable listings, Oceanis 47 is priced somewhat higher.
Despite being the largest yacht in this comparison, the Dufour 48 can sometimes be chartered for less than a Bavaria C46 or Oceanis 47.
Rates depend on the yacht’s age, equipment, dates and discounts, so it is always best to compare individual offers.
The new Dufour 48 brings welcome improvements over the Dufour 470, especially in cockpit organisation, use of space and comfort aboard.
After seeing it in Biograd, we came away with a very positive first impression, especially for crews of eight to ten who enjoy spending time together.
We would not automatically rank it above the Oceanis 47, Bavaria C46 or Hanse 460, however. The best yacht is not necessarily the biggest or newest, but the one that suits your crew and holiday plans.
You can charter the Dufour 48 through Macrocruise from several bases in the Adriatic and Mediterranean, as well as Northern Europe. Below are links to individual yachts, showing year of build and cabin/bathroom layout. Prices and availability depend on your dates.
Listings reflect the Macrocruise selection from November 2026. Bases, equipment and availability may change.
Photos: Macrocruise, Biograd Boat Show 2026.
