DS48 Exterior walkthrough

Here is a detailed look at the new DS48's exterior features. Phil explores key features including the new dinghy garage, electronic equipment, helm position, and just how huge those cockpit storage lockers are!

[@bik3man1]

Great walkthrough again, thanks! Just curious, why did they go back to single rudder? The DS45 had twin rudders?

[@inspirationmarine]

The twin rudder design on the 45 was a bit of a compromise needed to create a larger dinghy storage space at the back, which has not been needed on the 48 as it is physically large enough to achieve the dinghy garage space, whilst also retaining the preferred single rudder design. The DS41 and DS54 are also single rudder models. Although there are times when twin rudders can offer advantages, the reduced manoeuvring ability of twin rudder designs is considered better to avoid if possible. The DS48 has a very clever steering system, which offers an extra level of redundancy, meaning that if there is an issue with one side of the steering the other can work independently of it. This also means you can have 2 autopilot drives, which is a great feature too.

[@guyfender5267]

All v good so far, has the hull shape changed and performance improved under sail since Hanse took over production? Looking forward to objective commentary on the sailing thanks

[@inspirationmarine]

The hull shapes have changed since Hanse took over 17 years ago but still designed by Bill Dixon and his team. I have sailed all of the DS models, which perform really nicely in terms of being very seakindly and solid to sail and also offer a really good turn of speed.

[@philipwright7186]

Good review (likewise the interior). Unhurried, thorough, informative and refreshingly free of overkill.

[@inspirationmarine]

Thank you - we will be giving a sailing one a go tomorrow when we cross the Channel and back - standby.

[@justinallmond3855]

C’mon man it was sea trials Friday like a week plus ago. Where’s the video?

[@inspirationmarine]

Hi Justin, Friday was blowing 30 knots +, so we had to cancel it and re-schedule - We are now planning a two day trip across the channel and back 15th/16th July with Yachting Monthly for an extended test.

[@justinallmond3855]

@@inspirationmarine awesome can’t wait for that. But you know 30 knots would have made for some interesting video as well. Nice showing for how neat the deck saloon can be in less than ideal scenarios.

[@gundkemable]

Excellent. I would also like to know if the main sail was vertical battened. Also is the flooring was standard flexiteak or upgraded real teak. Thanks and best regards

[@inspirationmarine]

Hi Kemal - Yes the main sail in this case is a vertically battened triradial cruising laminate sail. The decking is Flexiteek. Planning to do a sailing video this afternoon, so stay tuned for that

[@gundkemable]

@@inspirationmarine when can we expect to see the video of sea trial. Thank you

[@barrysummers1622]

Great walk through, thanks for sharing.

[@clausmartinfuhrmann7657]

zum Wäsche waschen in die Backskiste klettern. Toll, das können Andere besser...Wer so ein Schiff bestellt, sollte die Werkbank und den Werkzeugkasten gleich mitbestellen...

[@inspirationmarine]

It is your choice where you have the washing machine positioned - there is a workshop layout available which further increases the storage space, houses the washer/dryer and includes a workbench area. There are numerous layouts available to suit each persons requirements.