Some things are nonnegotiable when you’re in the market for a transatlantic-capable cruiser. Of course, you’re going to need exceptional range, but safety and comfort will be of utmost importance as well. Luckily, those are the principles upon which Kadey-Krogen was founded. And the company’s newly launched 48 AE (Advanced Ergonomics) lives up to those standards and then some, with an added eye given toward ease of use and, not surprisingly, ergonomics. The 48 came about as a replacement for the much-beloved 48 North Sea, a vessel that was popular among serious passagemakers and weekend cruisers alike for her seaworthiness and dependability. With the AE, the company looked to expand upon the North Sea’s appealing capabilities by taking into account literal boatloads of customer feedback.
Onboard the 48 features a fully covered aft deck and a spacious saloon in which you’ll find a customizably configured settee and table that raises or lowers depending on whether you’re using it for dining or balancing cocktails. A galley boasts a four-burner Viking range as well as a floor-to-ceiling pantry you’ll appreciate when you get a case of the munchies 1,000 NM from the nearest 7-Eleven. Below decks owners have a choice of a two- or three-cabin layout. If the two-cabin layout is your druthers, you’ll be happy to know that the third room has a built-in desk and makes for an excellent office while at sea.
Continuing with the ergonomic theme, down below the engine room has two axial fans with moisture eliminators. It also houses a single reliable 231-hp John Deere diesel, an engine capable of chugging to Portugal—or perhaps just to the nearest yacht club.