WRITTEN BY: Rob Bowman
Jan 23, 2022 
Going up against much larger competition, the panel of 8 judges from the top boating magazines across Europe decided that the Absolute 48 Coupe was unique and innovative enough to stand apart from the other nominees. The newest model to debut from Absolute Yachts is now the 2022 European Powerboat of the Year Award winner for the category 'Up to 20 Meters' (under 65 feet).
"Absolute continues to develop new models that are enticing to boaters who want versatility in their experience," said Jay Hendrix, Vice President of SI Yachts. "I think this is what the judges saw in the 48 Coupe. You can cruise over to the Bahamas in it. You can take all kinds of along-shore trips up the coast. It's great for entertaining. There's no question that the Absolute shipyard has been really dialed in on what today's boater is looking for."
(Below: Youtuber Aquaholic take us onboard with a thorough review)
The 'Up to 20 Meter' category is the biggest boat class in the nominations, taking factors into consideration like spending multiple weeks on board with guests, the arrangements of space, the overall layout of the accommodations, the thoughtfulness of the exterior areas, and of course, the performance of the boat. Other boats in the same category included the 53 Flybridge from the Azimut Yachts shipyard and a 53-foot Leopard Power Catamaran.
One of the unique characteristics that no doubt caught the judges' eyes was the layout and design of the cockpit (seen below). Transparent barriers line the edges of the spacious aft deck, giving everyone clean line of site to the water without interruption of solid fiberglass beams. A retractable sunshade can be extended, providing shade during afternoon cocktails. The furniture is entirely moveable as well, giving owners the ability to create the perfect arrangement for the number of friends and family on board that day. With the cockpit doors completely open, the main deck living space is one large area that stretches from the helm to the swim platform steps.
The size and number of windows on the Absolute 48 Coupe are hard to ignore. While some traditionalists scoff at this new trend in yachting, this design is purely for the enjoyment of the owners and the advantages are undeniable when enjoyed from inside the salon. Boaters get on the ocean to enjoy their environment, not to stare at fiberglass pillars. Absolute has not only constructed a safe and strong vessel, but they did so with floor-to-ceiling windows throughout the salon. Even the stateroom on the lower deck are exceptionally bright and open thanks to the natural light.
The salon windows can also be electrically opened, just like a luxury sedan. Combined with the opening door adjacent to the helm, the 48 Coupe allows for the fresh sea breeze to flow through the interior and aft deck.
The lower deck accommodations on the 48 Coupe are spectacular, particularly for a 48-foot sports coupe. While 3 staterooms have been designed into the lower deck, the high ceilings and large windows make each cabin feel much larger.
The master cabin is found midship and has its own en suite head. There is a large center berth with storage underneath, two large windows with adjoining, opening portholes for ventilation, and beautiful appointments throughout. The master cabin feels remarkably larger, as if it belongs on a 55-to-60 foot vessel. The VIP cabin is forward with a queen-sized berth, while a third cabin features side-by-side bunk beds.
Powered with Volvo Penta IPS950 480HP engines, the 48 Coupe is as sporty as it is versatile. Volvo was chosen as the power provider due to their reliability, ease of service, reduced vibrations, and better efficiency. The 48 Coupe has a maximum speed of 28.5 knots at 3800RPM, while the ideal cruising speed is around 22 knots at 3,200 RPM. Also available on the 48 Coupe is the Volvo Assisted Docking System which completely takes the stress out of difficult docking decisions.
As one of the top Absolute dealers in the world, SI Yachts is committed to providing you with the best purchasing and ownership possible. Since 1964, we've been helping both experienced and new boaters create the best memories of their life through boating. Our team of yacht sales experts can assist you with availability, options, and pricing of all Absolute models. Call our main office today at 1-718-984-7676 or email us at sales@siyachts.com to begin your journey.
