The DeFever 53 Performance Offshore Cruiser was designed by Arthur DeFever to meet the demands of owners looking for a manageable coastal cruiser operated by a couple without crew that could cruise at a good speed and fuel economy but still have the range to explore off the beaten path. At the same time it had to have enough space for family and guests to live aboard for weeks or months at a time.
An evolution of the 52 Offshore Cruiser, the 53 POC was designed to carry less fuel and water, but have less weight, a semi-displacement hull, and more horsepower. What evolved was a boat with a higher cruising speed than the full-displacement 52, capable of cruising at a stately 10 knots with an 800 mile range. Thanks to the flush deck design the interior is spacious and there is a standing-headroom engine room.
Three staterooms to accommodate up to six, each with an ensuite head, are below deck, and include a private owners full-beam aft cabin with a separate stairwell from the guests quarters forward. On deck there is a large aft cockpit with wrap around three-sided canvas and forward side passageway doors for all weather entertaining or relaxation.
The spacious saloon and galley are aft of the pilothouse. In the galley all of the major appliances have been upgraded to matching Kenmore Elite. There are matching port and starboard sidewalks that lead from the cockpit to the bow, where there is large space for deck gear as well as a large sofa. The pilothouse has port and starboard side doors.
Up top on the bridge deck there is a second helm station with wrap around seating under the bimini. The bridge also includes a BBQ station with electric grill, sink and refrigerator. Aft of there is the Zodiac tender with crane plus two paddleboards with holders.
Major Highlights
ABT TRAC Stabilizers, fully serviced 2021
Upgraded bow and stern thrusters - Sidepower 5-blade dual-prop each, with wireless remote
Separate reverse cycle air conditioning units for each compartment
Hydronic diesel heater with outlets in each compartment
Full bottom job including barrier coat in 2018
Rudder rebuild in 2021
Props aligned in 2021
Victron inverter upgrade in 2019
Thruster battery charger upgrades in 2021 & 2023
Genset battery replaced in 2020
Thruster battery upgrades in 2020
House bank (460Ah) replaced in 2022
Inverter bank (460Ah) replaced in 2023
Link to Listing www.yachtworld.com/yacht/1987...