DAWN 48
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 48.08 ft |
| LWL | 37.67 ft |
| Beam | 14.5 ft |
| Draft | 6 ft |
| Displacement | 27,500 lb |
| Ballast | 11,599.5 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 8.2 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 57.5 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 15.5 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 50.25 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 15 ft |
| PYmizzen luff | 33 ft |
| EYmizzen foot | 10 ft |
| FLforestay | 15.5 ft |
| Mainsail | 852.7 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 445.6 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 757.6 sq ft |
About the DAWN 48
Designed by German Frers and built by Kong & Halvorsen Marine & Eng. Co. Ltd. (HK) between 1983 and 1985, the Dawn 48 is a rare vessel with only 18 hulls produced. This limited production run of a German Frers design from the mid-1980s creates a distinct market niche for this specific ketch configuration.
- Best for:
- This boat suits experienced coastal cruisers and those seeking a spacious, heavy-displacement ketch for protected waters, given the critical structural concerns regarding deck cores that may deter novice owners or those seeking low-maintenance bluewater platforms.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a displacement of 27500.0 lb and a capsize ratio of 1.93, the hull form suggests inherent offshore stability, but the high frequency of reported deck core moisture issues significantly compromises its reliability for extended bluewater passages without extensive structural repair.
- Comparables:
- Comparable to other German Frers designs from the same era, such as the Swan 48 or Oyster 46, due to similar displacement and ketch rig configurations, though the Dawn 48's specific build count and builder make it unique.
Performance
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the DAWN 48 yet. If you own one, help other buyers — what did you pay for it? Reports build a community price estimate over time.
Estimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 48.08ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
5 reported issues across 3 systems for the DAWN 48, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a DAWN 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 5 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
Similar Sailboats
Which engine powers your DAWN 48?
We haven't confirmed the engine for this model yet. If you own or know one, tell us — as owners report in, we build an accurate picture over time.
Brands sometimes mentioned for this model: Westerbeke — is it one of these?
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Used sails that fit the DAWN 48
Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…