The new 48 Wallytender X, powered by four 450-hp Mercury Verado R outboards, is designed for the U.S. market, particularly for the South Florida area, where its aggressive styling and 55-knot performance make it an easy fit.
The 48 is the first Wally built since the Ferretti Group took over the Monaco-based company. An earlier version was powered by twin 480-hp Volvo IPS600 pod drives, and it topped out at abut 38 knots. Wally’s shift to outboard power is part of a major trend that’s been growing in the past few years, and includes such Downeast builders as Hinckley, MJM, and Back Cove.
Wally, however, is anything but a Downeast boat. Its clean, modern Euro lines suggest motion even when it’s standing still. The 48 also embraces another trend: the aft gunwales fold down to create more open deck space when the boat is at anchor or tied up at a dock. But it has some elegant Wally touches, with exposed carbon fiber accents at the helm, and more along the frames for the drink holders.
The two pairs of outboards are positioned far apart at the transom, creating an open space in the middle. You can push a button and the teak passerelle deploys there, for easy boarding at a dock. Push another button and the passerelle’s teak planks form a ladder so you can go swimming.
The 48 Wallytender has large sun pads on the fore and aft decks; the aft deck has facing settees, with a teak table, and a wet bar is integrated into the back of the helm seat. Below, the cabin has 6’ 6” standing headroom plus a V berth, a settee, a head with a shower, and a small galley including a microwave and fridge.
The four Mercs produce a cruising speed of 40 knots. At that speed, the 48 Wallytender has a range of 320nm.
You can see a video of the boat in action below.
Specs.: LOA: 48’9”; Beam: 14’4”; Draft: 3’6”; Disp.: 24,471 lbs.; Fuel: 740 gals.; Water: 63 gals.; Power: 4×450-hp Mercury Verado R outboards.
