1988 DeFever 53Sold
$269,000
Boat in Slidell, LA 70461 US
Built in 1988
53
2 Engines (2x Caterpillar)
53 feet
Diesel
Fiberglass/Reinforced
ACCOMODATION
Water Doctor features the classic 53 POC layout with the private stairs from the salon to the full beam master suite, and forward access from the pilot house to the guest area with a VIP suite and forward Vee berth.
On the lower deck beginning forward is the Vee Berth guest stateroom with port and starboard berths, nice hanging closet and under berths drawer storage, with access to the day head aft and to port.
Next aft is the VIP suite complete with the port side walk around queen berth with a nice hanging locker to aft of the bed and drawer storage forward, the dressing table in the starboard aft corner and a small four drawer credenza at the foot of the bed. The private head with separate stall shower is to Starboard.
Access to the master suite is from the starboard aft side of the salon and features a full walk around queen berth against the aft bulkhead, double hanging closets along the starboard side with P&S night stands.
GALLEY
Large u-shaped on deck galley forward of the salon with teak cabinetry and parquet flooring, Whirlpool built in four burner electric stove overhead microwave oven with built in exhaust vent and electric oven below the cooktop, Whirlpool side by side refrigerator/freezer with through door ice and water delivery, single stainless steel sink, white Formica counter tops with teak sea rails, 19.9 gallon electric water heater, wet bar with stainless sink and glass storage, Whirlpool dishwasher, Whirlpool stacked washer and dryer.
ELECTRONICS
Two Furuno NavNet NT Max radar/plotter in the pilot house and two Furuno C-Map's on the flybridge, Furuno autopilot, Furuno FT50 digital indicator, Uniden ESUM625CW wireless VHF microphone, Standard Horizon VHF, Icom ICM710 SSB, Furuno GPS Navigator, Radar Arch, two 4" Danforth compasses, 3' open array radar antenna, 19" Vizio TVS in salon/MSR and VIP, Sony DVD player, Denon stereo receiver, Panasonic VHS player, electric remote-control spotlight.
MECHANICAL
Twin Caterpillar 3208TA 375 HP diesel engines with 3504 hours indicated, port generator 17KW Cummins/Onan with 361 hours and Racor 500 fuel water separator, Stbd generator 20KW Onan with 3747 hours and Racor 500 fuel water separator, dual Racor 1000 fuel water separators with vacuum gauges for both engines, Reverso oil change system, Charles Industries 40amp 12volt automatic battery charger, 110 volt air compressor, 19.9 gallon electric water heater, two 15KVA shore power transformers, engine room work bench, four 8D batteries, four separate fuel tanks with sight tubes and Tank Tender level indicators, Galley Maid head pumps, VDO engine gauges, ZF electric engine controls and wired remote on aft deck, Vetus bow thruster, Twin Disc 2.54:1 reduction marine gears, Bennett trim tabs, 50amp 220volt shore power inlet on bow, Galley Maid heads.
DECK
Painted decks with patterned non-skip, varnished hand and tow rails with stainless hardware, bow riding seat with blue Sunbrella cushions, full walk around decks with aft deck storage compartment and ladder to flybridge, stainless anchor chute with Maxwell Nilson chain and rope windlass, three electric windshield wipers, three sided bridge enclosure with three front zip outs, Stidd bench helm seat on flybridge, port and starboard L-shaped built in flybridge seating with blue sunbrella cushions, teak swim platform, Marquipt sea stairs boarding stairs, blue/white vinyl Bimini top on stainless frame, Marquipt davit with hard bottom inflatable deck chocks, port and starboard wing doors to the walk around side decks, stainless steel fender holders on bow rail.
Engine and generator hours are as of the date of the original listing and are a representation of what the listing broker is told by the owner and/or actual reading of the engine hour meters. The broker cannot guarantee the true hours. It is the responsibility of the purchaser and/or his agent to verify engine hours, warranties implied or otherwise and major overhauls as well as all other representations noted on the listing brochure.
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.
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 12/18/25 | Price decreased | $269,000(-8.8%) |
| 9/22/25 | Initial price | $295,000 |
1988 DeFever 53 Video Tours
Overview from around the web 1988 DeFever 53
Customers praise the 1988 DeFever 53 for its solid construction and timeless design, highlighting its spacious and comfortable interior that makes long voyages enjoyable
Many appreciate the vessel's seaworthy performance and reliable craftsmanship, noting that it handles well in various sea conditions. Owners often mention the classic styling combined with practical features, making it a favorite among those seeking a dependable bluewater cruiser. The thoughtful layout and quality materials used throughout the boat receive consistent positive remarks, reflecting the lasting appeal of this DeFever model.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 1988 DeFever 53 is a classic trawler known for its sturdy construction and comfortable cruising capabilities. Here are some pros and cons to consider:
Pros
Solid Build Quality: Built with a robust hull and high-quality materials, the DeFever 53 offers durability and seaworthiness for long-distance cruising.
Spacious Interior: The layout provides ample living space, including comfortable cabins, a well-equipped galley, and generous salon areas.
Fuel Efficiency: Designed as a traditional trawler, it typically delivers good fuel economy at moderate cruising speeds.
Good Storage: Plenty of storage compartments for extended voyages make it ideal for liveaboard or long-term cruising.
Classic Styling: Timeless design with a strong, purposeful profile that appeals to traditional boat enthusiasts.
Cons
Aging Systems: Being a model from 1988, some mechanical and electrical systems may require upgrades or ongoing maintenance.
Slower Speeds: As a displacement hull trawler, it is not built for speed and cruises at modest velocities.
Higher Maintenance: Older vessels often demand more frequent upkeep and attention to preserve performance and aesthetics.
Limited Modern Amenities: Compared to newer models, it may lack some contemporary conveniences and technology.
Size and Handling: At 53 feet, it requires experienced handling and may not be ideal for novice boaters or those seeking easy maneuverability.
Made For
The 1988 DeFever 53 is ideal for experienced cruisers and liveaboards seeking a sturdy, ocean-capable trawler with classic lines and spacious accommodations. It’s perfect for those who value comfort, reliability, and timeless design for long-range voyages or comfortable coastal cruising.
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Boat Location
Contact A & M Yacht Sales, Inc about 1988 DeFever 53
126 S. Roadway, New Orleans, LA, 70124
Contact A & M Yacht Sales, Inc
126 S. Roadway, New Orleans, LA, 70124
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