Walkaround designs are among the most versatile in the world for chasing a wide variety of billfish and other game fish species. From flying kites over live baits on the drift for sailfish to trolling a full spread for blue marlin and even targeting swordfish in the deep, walkarounds allow anglers and crews to utilize the full length of the boat rather than just the cockpit. It’s perfect for owner/operators, who are just steps away from the action; walkarounds are also optimal for families with small children.
The 48 Walkaround holds 800 gallons of fuel for her quad Mercury 350 hp outboards (other outboard options are available). The boat performs admirably in any sea condition, with excellent throttle response and surprisingly good fuel economy thanks to an efficient hull design. A Kohler generator provides onboard power while a Seakeeper 5 gyrostabilizer keeps things comfortable, especially when drifting in a beam sea. The hull is swathed in Matterhorn White for a beautiful, crisp look, accented by the teak deck and covering boards.
The spacious cockpit features a cavernous in-transom fishbox that is also plumbed as a livewell. The mezzanine seating contains a bait prep center as well as drink box and freezer unit — there are additional refrigerated fishboxes located in the cockpit sole flanking the Jim Smith-built rocket launcher, perfect for light-tackle angling. A gap tower offers an excellent vantage point for fishing as well as an attachment point for the hydraulic outriggers, keeping them off the gunwales and preserving the true walkaround nature of the boat.
Entering the belowdecks area from the sliding door on the helm deck, the woodwork is instantly noticeable. All the furniture and cabinetry is teak, finished with 10 coats of varnish. The countertops are Corian, with a two-burner Miele cooktop and Dometic refrigerator beneath.
The one stateroom/one head layout is ultimately functional, with the queen berth forward and more varnished teak woodwork. Storage abounds and access to all mechanical equipment is excellent. Back up on the helm deck, an L-shaped settee offers guest seating. Two helm chairs sit just aft of the teak pod, with electronics flush-mounted behind a clear panel within easy reach. A bow thruster further increases the boat’s maneuverability, whether in close quarters at the dock or working a hot marlin.
While Sapelo was built as a tender to a larger Jim Smith sport-fisher, the company will accommodate nearly any request for the 48 Walkaround, with nearly endless options for layouts, accommodations and power.
