1990 Californian 48 Cockpit Motor Yacht
$167,900
Boat in San Diego, CA 92101 US
48 Cockpit Motor Yacht
2 Engines (2x Caterpillar)
48.3 feet
Diesel
Fiberglass/Reinforced
One of the, if not THE, cleanest 48s on the west coast. This Californian has been immaculately maintained inside and out. Dependable Cats and a super clean engine room. Owner is ready for something a little different so come make this one yours to explore in. Come see her and bring offers
2026 Upgrades
Complete cooling system service
Heat exchangers serviced. Oil Coolers Replaced. Transmission coolers serviced After coolers serviced and tested
House Bank 4 new 8D Batteries
Head system New pump and serviced system
The Company offers the details of this vessel in good faith but cannot guarantee or warrant the accuracy of this information nor warrant the condition of the vessel. A buyer should instruct his agents, or his surveyors, to investigate such details as the buyer desires validated. This vessel is offered subject to prior sale, price change, or withdrawal without notice.
Vessel Specifications:
Year: 1990
Builder: Carver Yachts
Designer: Jule Marshall
Length Overall (LOA): 48' 5"
Beam: 15' 2"
Draft: 4' 8"
Displacement: 43,000 pounds
Propulsion & Machinery:
Main Engines: Two Caterpillar 3208TA, turbo diesel engines
Engine Horsepower: 425 horsepower each
Engine Cylinders: 8 cylinders each
Running Gear: 2-inch stainless steel shafts
Starboard Propeller: 30 x 30 four-blade bronze
Port Propeller: 30 x 30 four-blade bronze
Generator:Make/Model: Kohler 12.5CCO63 diesel
Power: 12.5 kw
Tank Capacities:
Fuel: Two aluminum tanks, 500 gallons total (per specs)
Water: One aluminum tank, 190 gallons (per specs)
Holding: One fiberglass tank, 70-gallon capacity (per specs)
Electrical System:
AC Power: 110 volt with two 50 amp inputs
Inverter/Charger: Xantrex, 3000 watt inverter / 150 amp charger
Battery Charger: Pronautic 50-3 charger
Starting Batteries: Two 8D, AGM batteries
Generator Start Battery: One 4D AGM
House Batteries: Four 8D, AGM batteries
Accessories & Equipment
Electronics & Navigation:
VHF Radios: Standard Horizon Matrix AIS GX2100, a Standard Horizon Explorer, and an Icom IC-M504
GPS: Raytheon Ray Star 390 GPS, a Garmin 4212 MFD, and a Garmin 182
Autopilot: Robertson AP 300X with remote
Radar: Garmin
Depth Finder: Autohelm Tri-Data
Bow Thruster: Side Power 24 volt
Trim Tabs: Bennett Trim Tabs
Engine Synchronizer: Glendenning
Intercom System
Galley & Domestic Appliances:
Stove: Origio four-burner electric glass cooktop
Oven: Sharp Carousel Microwave/convection oven
Refrigeration: GE double-door, 110-volt stand-up refrigerator/freezer; U-line small refrigerator/freezer on the sundeck
Washer/Dryer: Splendide combo
Central Vacuum: Nutone
Toilets: Two Par Jabsco electric toilets
Entertainment Systems:
Televisions: Two Vizio flat-screen TVs and one Element flat-screen TV
Stereo: Kenwood KDC X94
CD Changer: Sony
TV Antennas: Sea Watch TV antenna and an Intellian gimbaled TV antenna
Sound System: Bose soundbar
Wi-Fi: PDQ Boat Wi-Fi boost system
Deck & Ground Tackle:
Anchor Windlass: Maxwell/Nillson, vertical 12-volt with foot and bridge control
Main Anchor: Bruce 30kg with all chain rode
Secondary Anchor: Danforth with chain and rode
Dinghy Crane: Nick Jackson electric dinghy launching crane
Swim Platform: Fiberglass with a fold-down stainless steel swim ladder
Fender Holders: Four single stainless steel holders on the bow rail
Other Systems & Equipment:
Air Conditioning: Three Cruise Air, reverse cycle heating/air conditioning units
Watermaker: Village Marine STW600 110 volt
Oil Change System: Groco
Water System: 12-volt on-demand pressure water
Water Heater: Raritan, 20-gallon with engine heat exchanger
Safety Equipment:
Bilge Pumps: Three electric and one manual
Fire Extinguishers: Three manual dry chemical extinguishers
Engine Room Fire System: Fire Boy automatic Halon 1301 system
PFDs: Multiple type II, approved adult life jackets
Flares: Multiple
Man Overboard: Life Sling in a soft case
Canvas:
Flybridge bimini and enclosure
Sundeck enclosure
Hatch cover (black)
Anchor windlass cover (white)
Cockpit rail covers (white)F
Forward window covers (white)
A Legacy of American Boat Building
Californian Yachts was established in the 1970s and distinguished itself by building its boats in California, a contrast to the many builders who were manufacturing in Asia at the time. This commitment to American-based production contributed to their reputation for quality and craftsmanship. Over the years, the company saw several ownership changes, including a period under Carver Yachts, before finding its current home with Navigator Yachts.
Key Features of Californian Cockpit Motoryachts
Californian Cockpit Motoryachts are lauded for a combination of practical design, comfortable living spaces, and solid performance. Here's a breakdown of some of their most notable features:
Construction and Design:
Solid Fiberglass Hulls: These boats are known for their robust, solid fiberglass hulls, which provide a stable and secure ride.
Classic Profile: They feature a timeless, flush-deck profile that has aged well and remains appealing to many boating enthusiasts.
USA Built: Unlike many of their contemporaries, Californian yachts were built in the United States, which is often associated with high-quality construction and materials.
Practical Layouts: The interior layouts are designed for comfort and functionality, making them well-suited for extended cruising and even as liveaboards.
Onboard Living:
Spacious Interiors: Owners and reviewers consistently praise the generous and well-thought-out interior spaces.
Multiple Staterooms and Heads: this popular 48 offers a two stateroom layout, with en-suite heads that include separate shower stalls.
Large Salons: The salons are typically bright and airy, with large windows providing excellent views and ample natural light.
Well-Equipped Galleys: The galleys are designed to be functional for preparing meals on longer journeys.
Aft Deck and Flybridge: These yachts feature spacious aft decks, often enclosed, which are ideal for entertaining or relaxing. The flybridges are also generously sized, providing additional seating and a great vantage point for navigation.
Direct Cockpit Access: A notable feature is the direct access from the master stateroom to the cockpit, a convenience not always found on similar yachts.
Performance:
Good Seakeeping: They are known to be good sea boats, providing a comfortable and stable ride in various conditions.
Adequate Power: The engine configurations generally provide enough power for cruising at comfortable speeds. For instance, the Californian 48 with standard 375hp Caterpillar diesels can cruise at 15-16 knots.
Popular Models
Californian 48 Cockpit Motoryacht: A highly sought-after model, the 48 is praised for its quality construction and well-executed interior. It was available with different forward stateroom layouts to suit various needs. The interior woodwork, initially dark walnut, was later changed to teak.
What Owners and Reviewers Are Saying
Reviews and owner feedback for Californian Cockpit Motoryachts are generally positive, with several key themes emerging:
High-Quality Construction: The build quality is a frequently cited advantage. Owners appreciate the solid feel and durability of these boats. The "Marshall Yard" built boats from Tustin, California, are often considered to be of the highest quality.
Excellent for Cruising and Liveaboards: Their spacious interiors, practical layouts, and comfortable ride make them ideal for both coastal cruising and as full-time residences.
Timeless Appeal: The classic design has stood the test of time, and these boats continue to be an attractive option on the brokerage market.
Potential for Modernization: While they are older vessels, their solid construction makes them a great platform for upgrades and modernization. Many owners have updated the electronics, interior finishes, and systems to bring them up to contemporary standards.
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 3/23/26 | Initial price | $167,900 |
Videos from SAN DIEGO YACHT SALES on this 1990 Californian 48 Cockpit Motor Yacht
1990 Californian 48 Cockpit Motor Yacht Video Tours
Overview from around the web 1990 Californian 48 Cockpit Motor Yacht
Customers praise the 1990 Californian 48 Cockpit Motor Yacht for its solid construction and classic styling, highlighting its spacious cockpit and comfortable interior layout
Many appreciate its reliable performance and smooth handling, making it ideal for both cruising and entertaining. Owners often note the quality craftsmanship and the ample storage space, which adds to the vessel’s practicality for extended trips. Overall, the yacht is valued for combining traditional elegance with functional design, appealing to those who enjoy a timeless motor yacht experience.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 1990 Californian 48 Cockpit Motor Yacht is a classic vessel known for its sturdy construction and comfortable cruising capabilities. Here are some of the pros and cons associated with this model:
Pros
Solid Build Quality: The yacht features a robust fiberglass hull and quality craftsmanship, ensuring durability and reliability on the water.
Spacious Cockpit: The large cockpit area provides ample space for fishing, entertaining, or relaxing, making it ideal for social gatherings.
Comfortable Interior: With well-designed living quarters, including a full galley, salon, and sleeping accommodations, it offers comfortable overnight stays.
Twin Engine Configuration: Equipped with twin diesel engines, the yacht delivers good maneuverability and redundancy for safety.
Classic Styling: The timeless design and traditional lines appeal to enthusiasts of classic motor yachts.
Good Storage: Offers plenty of storage compartments both above and below deck, convenient for extended trips.
Cons
Older Electronics: Being a 1990 model, the navigation and onboard electronics may be outdated and require upgrading.
Maintenance Requirements: As with many boats of this age, ongoing maintenance can be more intensive and potentially costly.
Fuel Efficiency: The twin diesel engines, while powerful, may not be as fuel-efficient compared to more modern propulsion systems.
Limited Headroom in Some Areas: Certain interior spaces may have lower headroom, which can feel cramped to taller individuals.
Slower Top Speed: Designed primarily for comfortable cruising rather than high speed, it may not satisfy those looking for faster performance.
Made For
The 1990 Californian 48 Cockpit Motor Yacht is ideal for boating enthusiasts seeking a classic, spacious, and comfortable vessel for extended cruising or weekend getaways. Its design caters to those who appreciate traditional craftsmanship combined with reliable performance, making it perfect for families, couples, or small groups looking to enjoy leisurely time on the water with ample living and entertainment space.
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Address
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Contact SAN DIEGO YACHT SALES about 1990 Californian 48 Cockpit Motor Yacht
550 Marina Parkway, Chula Vista, CA, 91910
Contact SAN DIEGO YACHT SALES
550 Marina Parkway, Chula Vista, CA, 91910































































