Test / Sea trial of the Swift Trawler 48, a family model for slow sailing

With its semi-planing hull and two engine options, the Swift Trawler 48 offers a slow cruising program, and therefore an autonomy that allows you to spend time at sea. Despite its somewhat imposing dimensions, it remains easy to maneuver, notably thanks to the electric aids.

A semi-displacement hull

The Swift Trawler 48, as its name suggests, is a trawler with a semi-planing hull. Almost 15 m long and 4.50 m wide, it weighs 12,685 kg, which gives it great stability when sailing, although it does pitch slightly.

850 horsepower, the maximum optional power for our test

In Port Ginesta, Spain, we tested the Swift Trawler 48 at sea, with 4 knots of wind and a flat sea. There were 5 of us on board and the impressive 2x970 liter tanks were only half full. Our test model was equipped with the maximum power, two Cummins QSB6.7 of 425 hp each, that is 850 hp cumulated, an alternative to the standard 2x380 hp motorization.

Cale moteur du Swift Trawler 48
Swift Trawler 48 Engine Chock

A cruising speed ensuring autonomy

If we reached the maximum speed of 25.5 knots at 3,000 rpm for a consumption of 163L/h, it is not the program of the Swift Trawler 48. We will use the maximum speed in case of need, to reach a shelter for example. Its cruising speed is around 9.4 knots at 1500 rpm. The consumption of 26 liters/hour confers an autonomy of 714 miles. At 19 knots, the range increases to 350 miles.

A stable and pleasant navigation

From the flybridge cockpit, visibility is good and we try a few circles in the water to check the turning behavior. The boat remains stable and turns flat. The ride is quite comfortable, although the displacement is a bit "heavy". The Swift Trawler has a tendency to sail a little on the back. At 9 knots, you can enjoy the guests on board and chat without having to speak loudly. This is the boat's program, to sail slowly.

Essai du Swift Trawler 48
Swift Trawler 48 Test Drive

A joystick to facilitate delicate maneuvers

The optional joystick with optional bow thruster and propeller is ideal for tricky maneuvers such as docking and departing. By simply using the joystick, the Swift Trawler responds quickly and moves easily through 360 degrees. While it may seem large at first, this 14.74-meter model is a joy to operate and easy to move. Rear camera options can also reassure owners when docking ass to ass.

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