1988 DeFever 53 Performance Offshore Cruiser Boat in La Pointe, WI 54850 US
Built in 1988
53 Performance Offshore Cruiser
2 Engines (2x Caterpillar)
53 feet
Diesel
Fiberglass/Reinforced
The Defever 53 POC is one of Arthur DeFever's most desirable designs. Kinship, re-powered in 2023 is now faster, quieter and more efficient. The Kinship cruises effortlessly at 17 kts with a top speed of 22 kts. At 9 - 10 kts (the original cruising speed) the boat has 25% more range.
The boat has better economy and range as well as the muscle to run fast when crossing the gulf-stream or outrunning a storm.
The DeFever 53 POC Motor Yacht (the POC stands for Performance Offshore Cruiser) was built in Taiwan by Sen Koh on a fully cored semi-displacement hull with a wide beam, hard aft chines, and a long keel. The galley-up floor plan is arranged with three staterooms on the lower level including a spacious V berth and large V I P guest cabin forward and an even larger master stateroom with direct (private) access from the main salon aft. Each roomy stateroom has a private head with separate stall showers. The galley is open to and very much apart of the main salon. A staircase in the wheelhouse leads up to the fly-bridge helm position. Like most Asian-built yachts of her era, the interior is fully paneled with quality teak woodwork and joinery. Additional features include bridge overhangs for the side decks and aft deck, a walk-in engine room, molded fore-deck seating.
2022 and 2023 Repower and Drivetrain Upgrades
· New Twin 500 hp, Caterpillar C7.1 turbo diesel motors
· Transferrable warrantee good through May, 2028
· New ZF 301-1 C Marine Reduction Gear transmissions
· New larger 2.25-inch shafts
· New larger 5 Veem bladed propellers
· New exhaust system
· New Caterpillar ECU controllers and gauges
· Rebuilt and upgraded Naiad stabilizer system to a current-spec 252 unit
Painted and soundproofed engine room with new sound insulation resulting in much lower sound level at all RPM
Other upgrades done during 2022-2023 Refit:
· Rebuilt both upper and lower dashboards for new instruments and gauges
· Three new Raymarine Axiom 12 displays, two at the lower helm, one on the flybridge
· New Raymarine radar unit
· New autopilot: Raymarine Evolution ACU-400 with P70R control head
2024-2025:
Complete exterior paintjob including new non-skid decks
Exterior Brightwork 11 coats of Interlux Alwood
New exterior LED deck-lights
Other major mechanical work:
· 2009: Rewired the entire engine room
Electric bow thruster
Trim Tabs
2024 Viking Coastal 9650-2 Rescue 6-person hard case life raft
5 heat pump/air conditioners
Bar with refrigerator and ice maker
Custom tip out wine wrack.
12-foot Zodiac dinghy with 9.9 hp Yamaha
One Pelican kayak
Varnished Teak Swim platform
Full size LG washing machine and dryer
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 |
|---|---|---|
| 7/2/26 | Initial price | $499,500 |
1988 DeFever 53 Performance Offshore Cruiser Video Tours
Overview from around the web 1988 DeFever 53 Performance Offshore Cruiser
The 1988 DeFever 53 Performance Offshore Cruiser has garnered positive feedback from a variety of boat enthusiasts and owners
Customers appreciate its sturdy construction and seaworthy design, which instills confidence for extended cruising. Many highlight the spacious interior layout, offering ample living space and comfortable accommodations for families or guests. The vessel’s smooth ride and fuel efficiency are frequently noted, making it an ideal choice for long voyages. Owners value the combination of performance and comfort, as it strikes a perfect balance for offshore adventures. The classic design and aesthetic appeal are also frequently praised, with many noting the boat's timeless elegance. Feedback often emphasizes the thoughtful craftsmanship evident in the attention to detail throughout the yacht, along with practical features such as ample storage and a well-equipped galley. Overall, the DeFever 53 Performance Offshore Cruiser is celebrated for its reliability and versatility, making it a cherished choice among those looking for a capable long-range cruising vessel.
Made For
The 1988 DeFever 53 Performance Offshore Cruiser is an ideal vessel for seasoned sailors and those new to the boating community who seek adventure on the open water. This boat is perfect for cruising enthusiasts who value both performance and comfort, making it an excellent choice for long-distance voyages or extended stays at sea. Designed with a spacious layout, the DeFever 53 accommodates families and groups, making it suitable for social gatherings, family vacations, or weekend retreats. Its robust construction also appeals to ocean explorers and those interested in tackling offshore conditions confidently. With a blend of traditional design and modern amenities, this cruiser is perfect for individuals who appreciate craftsmanship and wish to experience the timeless elegance of a well-built yacht. Ultimately, the DeFever 53 serves as an exceptional floating home for anyone longing for a life on the water, whether for relaxation, adventure, or everything in between.
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Boats For Sale in Wisconsin, United States Similar to the 1988 DeFever 53 Performance Offshore Cruiser
Compare with similar boats and find the perfect one for you.
 1988 DeFever 53 Performance Offshore Cruiser | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $499,500 | $599,000 | $399,000 | $189,995 | $170,000 | $120,000 |
| La Pointe | Sturgeon Bay | Sturgeon Bay | Madison | Racine | Superior |
| 53' | 45' | 52' | 39' | 33' | 47' |
| 5' | - | - | - | - | - |
| Caterpillar | Volvo Penta | MTU | CUMMINS | Yamaha | Ford Lehman |
| 500 hp | 435 hp | 825 hp | 446 hp | 250 hp | 275 hp |
| 3 | 23 | 38 | 304 | 52 | 489 |
Meet the Broker
Address
Other Information about Barkers Island Marina
Barker's Island Marina is located in the historic Port Town of Superior, Wisconsin and adjacent to Duluth, MN. Superior and Duluth are also known as the "Twin Ports". The two cities share a border divided by the St. Louis River and the Duluth/Superior Harbor. The 420 slip marina is a complete boating center and marina community. Our knowledgeable and experienced staff is committed to providing you with comfortable marina living and expert service.
Boat Location
Contact Barkers Island Marina about 1988 DeFever 53 Performance Offshore Cruiser
250 Marina Drive, Superior, WI, 54880
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