Princess Yachts has entered the walk-around day boat market with the world debut of its C48 Open at the 2026 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, introducing the British builder’s first stepped hull and outboard-powered model.
The launch broadens Princess’s range beyond its established motor yachts and sports cruisers with the company targeting new customers as well as existing owners seeking a smaller boat to use alongside a larger yacht.
A Deck Saloon version is scheduled to follow in 2027.
Three propulsion options are offered: triple Mercury Verado V10 400hp outboards, with a stated maximum speed of 46 knots and a speed exceeding 50 knots achieved during initial sea trials.
The yacht is powered by either triple V12 600hp outboards, exceeding 50 knots; or twin Volvo D6-480 inboard diesels, reaching up to 34 knots.
Reducing drag
Naval architect Michael Peters developed the patented Stepped Vee Ventilated Tunnel hull, which channels air beneath the running surface to reduce drag and generate lift.
Bernard Olesinski Limited developed the exterior, while Princess’s in-house team, led by design and development director Andy Lawrence, handled styling and interiors.
“We knew from the outset that entering this market couldn’t simply be about adapting one of our existing sports yachts or creating our own version of what was already available,” said Princess chief executive Will Green.
“We wanted to bring something genuinely different to this style of boating, but something that was unmistakably Princess.”
Additional living space
The Open configuration has a hardtop above a fully open main deck. Moving the helm forward creates more cockpit space, accommodating an aft sunpad, seating and a table, with manually operated folding seats on either side.
Standard half-height balconies provide additional seating, while optional drop-down terraces extend the deck over the water.
The exterior galley includes wet bars, an electric grill, drawer fridge, sink and storage. Three helm seats are standard, with four available as an option, and the foredeck provides further seating.
Below deck, the standard arrangement comprises a lower saloon with convertible dinette, storage lobby, day head and aft cabin. Buyers can replace the saloon with a forward cabin or specify a lower galley.
