CAL 48
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 47.75 ft |
| LWL | 35 ft |
| Beam | 12 ft |
| Draft | 6.5 ft |
| Displacement | 25,000 lb |
| Ballast | 9,500 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 7.9 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 55 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 19 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 48.2 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 21.5 ft |
| FLforestay | 19 ft |
| Mainsail | 1,082.1 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 522.5 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 888.3 sq ft |
Engine
| Perkins | 4-10850 hpSee all 173 parts → |
About the CAL 48
Designed by C. William Lapworth and built by Jensen Marine (USA) from 1966–1970, the CAL 48 is a substantial cruising sloop with only 24 hulls produced. Its heavy displacement of 25000.0 lb and fin keel configuration reflect a design philosophy prioritizing stability and seakeeping over speed.
- Best for:
- This boat is best suited for experienced coastal cruisers and bluewater adventurers who prioritize comfort and offshore capability, as evidenced by the high prevalence of solar panels, watermakers, and wind generators in owner reports.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a displacement of 25000.0 lb, a capsize ratio of 1.64, and a comfort ratio of 36.36, the CAL 48 is well-regarded for offshore passage-making, provided critical structural components like the deck core and rudder assembly are sound.
- Comparables:
- Comparable to other heavy-displacement fin-keel cruisers from the late 1960s such as the Cal 40 or O'Day 38, the CAL 48 shares similar dimensions and a focus on robust construction, though its rarity (24 hulls) makes it unique.
Performance
ORC Performance Data(1 certificate)
Measured performance data from ORC (Offshore Racing Congress) certificates.
Polar Diagram
Boat speed (kn) vs. true wind angle. Source: ORC
Racing Ratings
Triple Number
ORC Measured
Sail Areas (ORC)
Speed Table (kn)
| TWA \ TWS | 6 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 14 | 16 | 20 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 52° | 5.2 | 6.2 | 7.1 | 7.6 | 7.8 | 8.0 | 8.1 |
| 60° | 5.6 | 6.6 | 7.4 | 7.8 | 8.1 | 8.2 | 8.3 |
| 75° | 5.9 | 7.0 | 7.7 | 8.0 | 8.3 | 8.5 | 8.7 |
| 90° | 5.9 | 7.0 | 7.7 | 8.1 | 8.4 | 8.6 | 9.0 |
| 110° | 5.6 | 6.8 | 7.7 | 8.2 | 8.5 | 8.9 | 9.4 |
| 120° | 5.4 | 6.6 | 7.6 | 8.1 | 8.5 | 8.8 | 9.6 |
| 135° | 4.9 | 6.0 | 7.0 | 7.8 | 8.2 | 8.5 | 9.3 |
| 150° | 4.1 | 5.2 | 6.2 | 7.1 | 7.7 | 8.1 | 8.8 |
| Beat VMG | 3.3 | 4.1 | 4.6 | 5.1 | 5.3 | 5.5 | 5.6 |
| Run VMG | 3.5 | 4.5 | 5.4 | 6.1 | 6.8 | 7.5 | 8.3 |
Estimated Value
Limited DataEstimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 47.75ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
23 reported issues across 9 systems for the CAL 48, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a CAL 48? This is an in-depth report on the faults this model is known for — so you know exactly what to check when you walk the boat. For the price of a coffee.
- ✓ All 23 specific issues — severity, symptoms & fixes
- ✓ Model-specific pre-purchase inspection checklist
- ✓ Downloadable PDF to take to your surveyor — yours to keep
One-time $2.99 · secure checkout by Stripe · instant access · 30 days online, PDF yours to keep
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Engine Parts & Maintenance
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Used sails that fit the CAL 48
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