FORT LAUDERDALE, FL – October 29, 2026: Princess Yachts has officially entered the high-performance center console market with the world debut of the Princess C48 Open at the 2026 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show.
The new C48 represents a significant departure for the British yacht manufacturer, which has traditionally focused on luxury motor yachts, sport cruisers, and flybridge vessels. With triple Mercury outboards, an advanced stepped hull, and a reported top speed exceeding 50 knots, the C48 introduces an entirely different type of boating experience to the Princess lineup.
The model is making its public debut at Bahia Mar during FLIBS 2026, which runs from October 28 through November 1.
Perhaps the biggest surprise is that this isn't simply a conventional Princess motor yacht with outboard engines attached. The C48 is built around a new performance-oriented platform, designed to compete in the growing market for luxury center consoles and high-speed day boats.
Princess C48 Specifications
The Princess C48 combines the dimensions of a substantial luxury cruiser with the performance characteristics of a high-powered center console.
| Specification | Princess C48 |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Princess Yachts |
| Model | C48 Open |
| World debut | FLIBS 2026 |
| Length overall | Up to 50 ft 5 in with V12 outboards |
| Beam | 13 ft 8 in |
| Maximum horsepower | 1,800 HP |
| Outboard engines | Triple Mercury Verado V10 or V12 |
| Inboard option | Twin Volvo Penta D6-480 diesels |
| Maximum advertised speed | Up to approximately 53 knots |
| Outboard fuel capacity | Approximately 615 US gallons, Open version |
| Hull design | Stepped Vee Ventilated Tunnel (SVVT) |
| Sleeping capacity | Up to four guests |
Specifications vary by propulsion package and between the Open and Deck Saloon versions. Princess also notes that actual performance depends on loading, sea conditions, and other operating factors.
Triple Mercury V12 Outboards Deliver Up to 1,800 Horsepower
One of the biggest talking points surrounding the Princess C48 is its propulsion system.
For the first time in the company's history, buyers can specify a Princess yacht with outboard engines.
The C48 offers two Mercury outboard configurations:
- Triple Mercury Verado V10 400 HP: A combined 1,200 horsepower.
- Triple Mercury Verado V12 600 HP: A combined 1,800 horsepower.
For buyers who prefer conventional inboard propulsion, Princess also offers a twin Volvo Penta D6-480 diesel configuration producing a combined 960 horsepower.
The outboard-powered C48 Open is particularly noteworthy because it becomes the fastest model in the Princess range.
With the triple Mercury V12 configuration, Princess advertises maximum speeds of approximately 51 to 53 knots, depending on operating conditions.
That places the new model firmly within the high-performance luxury day boat segment rather than the traditional cruising category associated with many Princess yachts.
The C48 Open displayed at FLIBS is equipped with the most powerful propulsion package: three Mercury V12 600 HP Verado engines.
A New Stepped Hull Designed for Speed and Efficiency
Power alone doesn't explain the C48's performance ambitions.
Princess developed the model around Michael Peters Yacht Design's patented Stepped Vee Ventilated Tunnel (SVVT) hull.
Unlike a conventional deep-V hull, the SVVT design incorporates steps and ventilation features intended to reduce drag and improve efficiency at speed.
The concept introduces air beneath portions of the running surface, reducing wetted area while generating lift.
Its geometry is also designed to maintain directional control and predictable handling during high-speed operation.
The hull represents another important first for Princess, bringing stepped-hull technology into the manufacturer's product range.
Development involved Michael Peters Yacht Design, Bernard Olesinski Limited, and Princess's in-house design team.
Although the design has clear performance objectives, real-world ride quality and fuel efficiency will ultimately depend on independent testing across different loading and sea conditions.
Princess C48 Open: A Luxury Center Console With a Different Approach
At first glance, the Princess C48 Open looks quite different from the manufacturer's familiar flybridge yachts.
The main deck uses an open, walkaround configuration that allows passengers to move between the cockpit, helm, and foredeck.
A substantial hardtop provides shade and protection over the central seating and helm area while preserving the open-air character of the boat.
Instead of prioritizing a large enclosed main-deck salon, the C48 Open places greater emphasis on outdoor entertaining and direct access to the water.
This layout makes sense for the type of boating commonly found in South Florida and the Bahamas, where owners frequently use their boats for day trips, waterfront dining, swimming, and island hopping.
However, the C48 isn't intended to be a conventional offshore fishing center console.
Its emphasis is on luxury, performance, entertaining, and comfortable recreational cruising rather than tournament fishing equipment or specialized angling layouts.
What's Inside the Princess C48?
Despite its sporty exterior, the Princess C48 still offers the accommodations expected from a luxury yacht manufacturer.
Below deck, the Open version features an aft cabin, a day head, and a forward living area that can be configured according to the owner's preferences.
The standard lower saloon arrangement includes convertible seating, while an alternative layout provides a dedicated forward cabin.
An optional galley is also available for owners who want additional facilities for extended outings.
Princess advertises accommodations for up to four people, making the C48 suitable for more than simple afternoon cruising.
Although the boat's primary focus is high-performance day boating, the lower-deck accommodations make occasional overnight trips possible.
Princess C48 Open vs. C48 Deck Saloon
The C48 is being introduced as a new model family rather than a single configuration.
Buyers can choose between the C48 Open and the C48 Deck Saloon, each offering a different approach to onboard living.
Princess C48 Open
The Open is the more outdoor-focused version, featuring a largely open main deck beneath a protective hardtop.
It is designed for owners who prioritize open-air cruising, entertaining, and a direct connection with the water.
This is the version making its world debut at FLIBS 2026.
Princess C48 Deck Saloon
The Deck Saloon offers additional protection from the elements through a fully enclosed main-deck living space.
Its layout includes an interior lounge, galley, and helm station, with large sliding glass doors connecting the saloon to the cockpit.
Twin helm-side doors and an optional sliding roof allow the interior to open up when conditions are favorable.
The Deck Saloon may appeal to buyers who want the C48's performance characteristics but expect to use the boat in a wider variety of weather conditions.
Both versions offer outboard and inboard propulsion choices.
How Much Fuel Does the Princess C48 Carry?
Fuel capacity is an important consideration for a boat designed to operate at speeds exceeding 50 knots.
According to Princess, the outboard-powered C48 Open carries approximately 2,330 liters of fuel, equivalent to about 615 US gallons.
The Deck Saloon version has a slightly different published outboard fuel capacity of approximately 2,346 liters, or 620 US gallons.
Inboard configurations have a smaller published fuel capacity of approximately 1,500 liters, or 396 US gallons.
These are substantial fuel capacities for a vessel in this size category, although total cruising range will depend heavily on engine selection, cruising speed, loading, and sea conditions.
Princess has not established a single universally applicable cruising range for every C48 configuration.
Owners planning longer passages should rely on verified performance data for their specific engine package and maintain appropriate fuel reserves.
How Much Does the Princess C48 Cost?
As of its FLIBS 2026 debut, Princess has not published a standardized U.S. retail price for every C48 configuration.
Pricing will depend on the propulsion package, selected options, interior configuration, and regional specifications.
Buyers interested in the C48 should request a current quotation from an authorized Princess dealer.
The triple Mercury V12 version is particularly notable for its high-output propulsion system, while buyers considering inboard diesels may have different priorities involving cruising characteristics, service arrangements, and onboard layout.
As more C48 models enter the market, dealer listings and actual transaction data should provide a clearer picture of pricing.
Why Princess Is Entering the Outboard-Powered Yacht Market
The Princess C48 is arriving at a time when large outboard-powered boats are becoming an increasingly important part of the luxury recreational market.
High-horsepower outboard engines have enabled manufacturers to build larger and faster boats without relying exclusively on traditional inboard propulsion.
Modern outboards also offer advantages in certain applications, including accessible engine servicing and the ability to tilt the engines clear of the water when appropriate.
For manufacturers, outboard propulsion can also create different opportunities for interior layouts because large inboard engine compartments are no longer required in the same location.
However, large outboard installations have their own considerations, including maintenance costs, fuel consumption, engine accessibility, and how the propulsion arrangement affects stern access.
By introducing the C48, Princess is expanding into a market already served by established luxury day boat and center console manufacturers.
Rather than competing primarily on fishing capability, Princess is emphasizing design, high-speed performance, and the brand's established luxury identity.
Where Can You See the Princess C48 at FLIBS 2026?
The Princess C48 Open is making its world debut at the 2026 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, held from October 28 through November 1.
Princess is exhibiting at Bahia Mar Yachting Center, where its display also includes several other models from the company's existing yacht ranges.
Visitors can see the new C48 Open alongside the North American debut of the Princess X90 and additional models from the V, S, F, Y, and X Class families.
The C48 displayed in Fort Lauderdale features triple Mercury V12 600 HP outboards, making it a particularly interesting vessel for anyone following the evolution of high-performance luxury boats.
For more new yacht introductions from this year's show, read our FLIBS 2026: Biggest Yacht Debuts and Highlights So Far roundup.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Princess C48
Is the Princess C48 a center console?
Yes. The Princess C48 introduces a new luxury center console platform with a walkaround layout. Unlike fishing-focused center consoles, its design emphasizes high-speed cruising, entertaining, and comfortable accommodations.
How fast is the Princess C48?
Princess advertises maximum speeds of approximately 51 to 53 knots with the triple Mercury V12 600 HP outboard configuration. Actual performance depends on operating conditions and vessel loading.
What engines does the Princess C48 use?
Buyers can choose triple Mercury V10 400 HP outboards, triple Mercury V12 600 HP outboards, or twin Volvo Penta D6-480 inboard diesel engines.
How much horsepower does the Princess C48 have?
The most powerful configuration produces a combined 1,800 horsepower from three Mercury V12 600 HP Verado outboard engines.
Can you sleep aboard the Princess C48?
Yes. The C48 offers lower-deck accommodations for up to four guests, depending on the selected layout.
When was the Princess C48 introduced?
The Princess C48 Open made its world debut at the 2026 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show in October 2026.
Final Thoughts: The Princess C48 Signals a New Direction
The Princess C48 Open is one of the most significant new models introduced at FLIBS 2026, not simply because of its horsepower or advertised top speed, but because of what it represents for Princess Yachts.
For a manufacturer traditionally associated with luxury motor yachts and sophisticated cruising vessels, entering the center console market is a substantial strategic expansion.
With up to 1,800 horsepower, a stepped SVVT hull, open-air entertaining spaces, and overnight accommodations, the C48 brings together features that appeal to buyers looking for both performance and luxury.
Its introduction also reflects a broader shift in recreational boating, where the boundaries between center consoles, luxury day boats, and traditional motor yachts continue to evolve.
Whether the C48 becomes a major commercial success remains to be seen, but its arrival gives Princess a distinctive new product in one of the marine industry's most competitive segments.
Follow Boats Daily for more coverage of the Princess C48, new yacht launches, and the biggest developments from the 2026 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show.
