Leading the line is the C48, available in both Open and Deck Saloon versions: the Princess C48 Open is set to launch at the 2026 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, while the Princess C48 Deck Saloon is scheduled for autumn 2027.
With its performance-driven hull, multiple propulsion options, and versatile layouts, the C48 signals a new chapter for Princess. It also arrives as the fastest Princess yacht ever built, capable of exceeding 50 knots in its most powerful configuration.
A Three-Way Design Collaboration
The C48 is the product of collaboration between three respected design forces. Naval architect Michael Peters, known for his patented Stepped Vee Ventilated Tunnel (SVVT) hull, shaped the underwater geometry. Bernard Olesinski Limited (BOL), Princess’s long-time naval architecture partner, handled exterior lines and deck structures. Styling and interior layouts were developed in-house under Andy Lawrence, Princess’s Director of Design.
By uniting the extraordinary talents of Michael Peters, our long-standing partners at BOL, and our own design team led by Andy Lawrence, we have created a yacht that combines the very best of hydrodynamic engineering, exterior beauty, and interior elegance."
CEO
Princess Yachts
This partnership has produced a motor yacht that merges advanced hydrodynamics with the design language and craftsmanship associated with Princess.
Two Versions of the C48: Open and Deck Saloon
The C48 will be offered in two distinct variants.
- C48 Open: The Open (which also comes in the Princess C48 Open Inboard version) is designed for those who prefer an adventure-oriented, open-air experience. Its main deck is fully open aft and along the sides, sheltered by a hardtop and a wraparound windscreen. An aft sunpad with forward-facing seating and a dining table creates a sociable stern arrangement, while folding seats to port and starboard add versatility.
Dual wet bars with a grill, fridge, sink, and storage enhance outdoor living, and a triple-seat helm station offers clear visibility and control. The foredeck provides additional flexible seating, arranged for both lounging and dining.
Below deck, the standard plan of the Princess C48 Open includes a convertible saloon, a day head, and an aft cabin, with options for a forward cabin or lower galley to suit owner preferences.
- C48 Deck Saloon: The Deck Saloon (which also comes in the Princess C48 Deck Saloon Inboard option) emphasizes enclosed comfort with sliding patio doors, twin side doors, and an optional sliding roof, creating a balance between indoor luxury and open-air cruising. The saloon integrates lounge and galley areas, complemented by exterior dining on the aft deck and further seating on the foredeck.
For inboard models, a hydraulic swim platform can also be specified to improve water access.
Below deck, the layout of the Princess C48 Deck Saloon features two cabins as standard, comprising a forward cabin, an aft cabin, a lobby, and a day head, designed to support longer cruising itineraries.
Performance and Power Options
At the core of the C48 is Peters’ SVVT hull, a twin-step design that channels air beneath the running surface to reduce drag and create lift. The geometry not only enhances speed and fuel efficiency but also improves grip and directional stability in turns. Vertical sidewalls within the central ventilated tunnel simulate a keel effect, reducing roll and pitch in challenging conditions.
The C48 will be offered with triple Mercury V10 400hp Verado outboards for 44–46 knots, triple Mercury V12 600hp Verados for 52–54 knots, or twin Volvo D6-480 inboard diesels for 32–34 knots.
Strategic Expansion: The New C-Class
The C48 will be built at Princess’s Lee Mill facility in Plymouth, with the larger “big boat” program continuing at South Yard. The C48 can serve both as a standalone dayboat and as a secondary yacht for larger-boat owners. The model also positions Princess to compete directly in the American outboard-driven dayboat sector, where brands such as Viking’s Valhalla range have gained traction. Princess’s decision to offer outboards reflects strong U.S. market demand, while European clients can turn to the inboard diesel configuration.
The C48 is more than a standalone model. It represents the launch of the Princess C-Class, a series dedicated to high-performance, center-console yachts. With outboard propulsion, flexible deck options, and top speeds above 50 knots, the C-Class is aimed at buyers seeking immediacy, thrill, and connection with the sea.
The first C48 is expected to make its show debut at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show 2026, with production commencing in Plymouth ahead of deliveries in 2027.
Princess Yachts has also confirmed four additional models, details of which can be found in separate coverage on the YachtBuyer website:
Interested in buying a Princess yacht? Explore all Princess C48 Open OB yachts for sale worldwide, verified and tracked through YachtBuyer MarketWatch to ensure only genuine listings - no fake options to waste your time. Or, you can browse all Princess C48 Deck Saloon OB yachts for sale.
