The walkthrough of the Absolute 48 Coupé explores everything from the reconfigurable cockpit furniture and glass-backed aft deck to the surprisingly spacious engine room and solar-integrated hardtop. With joystick docking, Volvo IPS650s, Dock Assist, and a generous spec list that includes a wine cooler, dishwasher, and optional passerelle, this detailed review shows exactly how the 48 Coupé stands out in its size range.
Absolute 48 Coupé Key Facts
- LOA 48' 11"
- Model Year 2021
- Cabins 3
- Max Speed 28 knots
- Status In Production
- Yacht Type Coupe
- Use Type Weekending
Video Tour
On Deck
The most eye-catching part of the Absolute 48 Coupé’s exterior is how much it challenges the traditional profile of a 48-footer. There’s no flybridge, which instantly gives this boat a sleek silhouette and opens up a huge entertaining space on the aft deck. The optional hydraulic swim platform is big enough to carry a 4.3m tender and includes a swim ladder plus a transom shower in stainless steel. The platform houses deep through-storage lockers - not watertight, but good for lines, fenders, or toys.
Cockpit lounging is where things really get clever. Rather than installing fixed furniture, Absolute has gone fully modular. Every seat, cushion, and table can be reconfigured, moved, or combined differently. You can turn it into a low cocktail zone, a formal dining setup, or one big lounging pad. The cockpit table slides, adjusts height, and even anchors in place. It’s a setup that makes hosting incredibly flexible without locking you into one layout. The area is already rigged for full enclosure, making it usable year-round. Push-button sunshades extend the comfort even further - an upscale feature rarely seen on boats of this size.
Moving forward, the side decks are on the narrower side but still workable. And when you reach the bow, you get another wide-open lounging zone. There’s a sunpad area with convertible sections that raise or flatten, integrated pop-up lights, cupholders, and Fusion stereo controls. A removable sunshade can be clipped in using built-in poles, turning the whole bow into an all-day hangout spot. Underfoot, there’s proper line and fender storage, and forward of that, the stainless steel Ultra anchor is mounted on a swivel and set into a wide flared bow.
And then there’s the solar. Absolute has fully committed. The Coupé’s roof is loaded with solar panels, supplementing onboard power and also giving the boat a modern, tech-forward look that supports its eco-conscious credentials.
Interior Accommodation
When you step into the saloon from the cockpit, it feels like one continuous living space. The saloon and galley are on the same level, and with the aft doors wide open and side windows dropped, the whole area turns into a breezy entertainment zone. You can prep snacks or mix drinks while still chatting with guests stretched out on the cockpit settees.
The galley is fitted out like a compact apartment kitchen. You get a two-burner cooktop, deep molded sink, microwave with grill, and tons of storage packed into sleek cabinetry. There’s even a trash compartment built into the counter. Overhead lockers, drawers, and clever pull-outs keep everything in reach and easy to organise. One of the surprises is the full size integrated dishwasher. It feels like a luxury touch that fits this boat’s lifestyle pitch.
Fridge space is generous too. There are two large fridge compartments with built-in freezer sections, and tucked beside them is a wine cooler placed smartly at the boat’s center of gravity. Opposite the galley, there’s a cozy settee with a high-low table that can convert between dining and lounging. Add a cushion and you’ve got a full feet-up lounging spot facing the hidden TV. And yes, there is a TV - it’s integrated into the cabinetry and even branded with the Absolute logo.
What’s striking is how bright the space feels. You’ve got glass all around - huge side windows, doors at the rear, plus overhead glazing that brings in natural light. Even the side windows open up, adding to the airiness. That open roof section is now lined with solar panels, but the design still lets light filter through while helping regulate heat inside. You can close the sunshade with a manual slide if things get too warm.
The helm station is tech-packed. Starboard side helm chair, with a wide view and a handy sliding door for stepping out quickly. Across to port, there's a full electrical panel under glass with everything clearly labeled. The twin Raymarine Axiom displays tie into Volvo’s IPS joystick system, and this model includes Volvo Dock Assist with Raymarine DockSense - a kind of proximity-sensing tech that helps you maneuver into tight spaces. Sensors on all sides show distance to obstacles and integrate with Skyhook and GPS data for precise positioning. It’s intuitive and ideal for new owners or anyone short-handed.
Owner's Cabin
The master cabin on this yacht is forward, and it’s a really different layout that works surprisingly well. It’s big, it’s bright, and it genuinely feels like a private space to retreat to. That bed is definitely at least a queen, raised up with these fantastic waterline views through those oversized hull windows. You wake up and you’re already looking out at the anchorage. It’s simple but smart. You’ve got space to move around, side tables, storage tucked in all the right places, and a built-in desk or makeup area where you can actually sit and use it - either from the bed or with a little stool if you want to add one.
They’ve done a great job on the finishing too. It’s understated but feels upscale - molded cabinetry, integrated handles, soft-close drawers. Pre-wired for a TV, naturally. And behind one of the panels is a full-height hanging locker that doubles as a proper walk-in closet. You even get a safe in there and an emergency escape panel with a ladder, which is a very Absolute touch - practical but totally hidden.
The ensuite is clever. Pocket door, decent countertop space, and a step-down shower that gives you full standing headroom even at the bow - probably close to 2m. There’s a proper porthole to air it out, a shelf for your products, and a nice deep sink. All the everyday stuff you’d want is right where you’d expect it. It’s functional, calm, and genuinely comfortable. And without any engine noise up here, you’ve just got the sound of the water when you’re at anchor - kind of hard to beat.
Guest Accommodation
There are two guest cabins on board, and they’ve done a great job making them feel like actual staterooms. The twin cabin is starboard side and it’s got a clean layout, good natural light, and a nice tall hanging locker that makes it more than just overflow sleeping. The use of pocket doors really helps open up the space. You’re not swinging a door into the middle of the room, and it just makes the whole lower deck feel more open and modern.
Forward of that, the VIP cabin is port side and honestly, this one could easily be mistaken for the owner’s cabin on some other boats. It’s that generous. There’s proper floor space around the bed, storage tucked underneath and behind the headboard, and even a little vanity or worktop built in with a stool. If you’re planning to live aboard, there’s also the option to swap that area out for a washer and dryer setup. You get to choose how you want to use the space, which is always welcome on a 48-footer.
Lighting is really well considered. There’s a huge hull window with blinds, so even in this lower deck you’ve got good views and natural light. There are proper bedside tables, a wall prepped for a TV, and a surprising amount of storage. Behind one of the doors is a walk-in closet that caught everyone off guard - it’s massive for a guest suite and even includes a breaker panel. It’s very much set up to be a usable stateroom for extended trips.
These two guest cabins share a head, which doubles as the day head. It’s got its own separate shower stall that’s genuinely spacious - could probably fit two if you’re feeling friendly. Nice detailing too, with proper storage, opening ports, and well-placed towel hooks and drawers.
Performance
Access to the engine room is through the cockpit and, for a 48-footer, it's surprisingly generous. There’s room to move, and everything is laid out in a way that feels intuitive. The twin Volvo Penta D6 IPS 650s are neatly installed aft, each pushing 480hp, with plenty of clearance around them for servicing. Between the drives sits the generator, well positioned for easy access without needing to climb over anything. The boat will cruise comfortably between 14 and 24 knots, with a top speed of around 29 knots.
There’s a single chilled water A/C unit mounted on the port side, a hot water heater, and a C-Fire suppression system. The boat runs Victron equipment for charging and power management, and there’s even a small surveillance camera tucked in here to monitor the space from the helm. Wiring and plumbing are properly loomed and labelled, and there are separate fuel tanks to port and starboard, each with clear sight glasses.
What really sets this setup apart is the onboard tech. The 48 Coupé comes with the Volvo Dock Assist system, paired with Raymarine’s DockSense sensors. It gives you real-time visuals of your distance to the dock, piling or finger, almost like parking sensors on a car. It works with the joystick control and Skyhook station-keeping to make close-quarters handling easier, especially if you're stepping up to a boat this size for the first time.
With no flybridge weight above, the handling is sharp and planted. The hull feels confident underway and maintains a low centre of gravity. Sound insulation is good too. With the engines and generator positioned aft, the accommodation spaces stay noticeably quieter, especially that forward master cabin.
Ownership Considerations
As a general rule, you can expect annual running costs to start from around 7% of the purchase price, and depending on where you berth it, how often you take it out, and how much of the upkeep you handle yourself, that figure could stretch closer to 12%. That covers everything from insurance and engine servicing to haul-outs, detailing, and marina fees. With a boat like this, especially one equipped with joystick docking and full sensor systems, it’s perfectly doable to run it without crew, which keeps costs in check and opens it up to confident owner-operators.
Absolute have put real effort into making this boat a pleasure to live with. You’ve got Victron solar systems on board, sized to handle hotel loads while you’re at anchor, meaning less generator use, less fuel burn, and more peaceful evenings. The DockSense and IPS joystick setup make marina manoeuvres genuinely stress-free, even short-handed. That combo of confidence and control goes a long way if you’re using the boat often or hopping between busy ports.
Anyone comparing options in this size and style range might also want to look at the Sessa Marine C47 or the Nimbus 495 Flybridge - both are strong contenders with slightly different takes on comfort and layout.
In Summary
The Absolute 48 Coupé is one of those yachts that really leans into making boating fun again. It’s packed with clever ideas and flexible spaces, from the fully reconfigurable cockpit furniture to the roomy cabins and unexpected walk-in closet. It’s got solar power up top, a dishwasher and wine fridge inside, and docking tech that almost lets the boat park itself. For a 48-footer without a flybridge, it still manages to feel big and bright, with loads of natural light and proper indoor-outdoor flow.
Looking to own a Absolute 48 Coupé? Use YachtBuyer’s Market Watch to compare all new and used Absolute 48 Coupé Boats for sale worldwide. You can also order a new Absolute 48 Coupé, customized to your exact specifications, with options for engine choice and layout configuration. Alternatively, explore our global listings of new and used boats for sale and find your perfect boat today!
Specifications
- Builder Absolute
- Range Coupé
- Model 48 Coupé
- Length Overall 48' 11"
- Beam 13' 11"
- Hull GRP
- Cabins 3
- Berths 4
- Yacht Type (Primary) Coupe
- Use Type (Primary) Weekending
- Cruising Speed
- Max Speed
- Fuel Capacity 423 Gallons
- Fresh Water Capacity 140 Gallons
- Engine Model 2x Volvo Penta D6-IPS650
- Engine max range (speed type) 189 (nm)
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