DeFever 53 Performance Offshore Cruiser


1987 DeFever 53 Offshore Cruiser - Exceptional Bluewater Cruiser & Luxury Liveaboard

This impressive 1987 DeFever 53 Offshore Cruiser combines legendary offshore capability with the comfort and space of a luxury waterfront apartment. Renowned worldwide for their robust construction, economical cruising performance, and exceptional seakeeping abilities, DeFever yachts remain one of the most sought-after long-range cruising motor yachts ever built.

Powered by twin Caterpillar 8-cylinder diesel engines producing 375HP each through reliable shaft drives, this vessel delivers dependable cruising performance and confidence for extended coastal and offshore passages.
Electrical power is supplied by twin Onan generators (15kVA and 8kVA), ensuring complete independence while at anchor or underway.
With an impressive 3,780 litres of diesel fuel capacity and 1,500 litres of fresh water storage, this yacht is perfectly suited to long-range cruising and extended stays aboard.

The spacious three-cabin layout provides comfortable accommodation for owners and guests, with each cabin featuring its own private ensuite. The generous heads are considerably larger than those found on most vessels of this size and include separate shower compartments, delivering true residential comfort.
One of the most striking features of this DeFever is the exceptional headroom throughout both the main and lower decks, creating a light, open, and spacious feel rarely found in offshore motor yachts.

The vessel's thoughtful design makes it an outstanding liveaboard option, offering all the comforts of home while retaining genuine offshore cruising capability.
A defining feature of the DeFever 53 is its exceptionally spacious galley, thoughtfully designed to support comfortable long-term living aboard. Positioned on the main deck and seamlessly integrated with the saloon, it offers the convenience and practicality of a full-sized residential kitchen.

Featuring expansive countertops, generous storage throughout, a full-size refrigerator/freezer, electric cooktop, and ample food preparation areas, the galley is perfectly equipped for everything from casual meals to extended cruising provisions.

The adjoining breakfast bar creates a natural connection between the galley and saloon, making it an ideal space for entertaining and socialising. Family and guests can comfortably gather while meals are prepared, enhancing the vessel's welcoming and open atmosphere. Large surrounding windows flood the area with natural light and provide excellent ventilation, while the open-plan design keeps everyone connected.
Combining impressive storage capacity, household-sized appliances, extensive workspace, and a highly functional layout, the DeFever 53 galley delivers the comfort, convenience, and practicality expected of a true long-range cruising yacht and luxury liveaboard vessel.

The expansive main deck saloon and galley area has been designed for entertaining and extended living aboard, featuring:
Huge fully equipped galley
Electric stove
Full-size refrigerator/freezer
Extensive bench space for meal preparation
Abundant storage lockers and cupboards
Large dining table
Spacious lounge and seating area
Excellent natural light and ventilation
Forward, the classic Portuguese-style wheelhouse provides outstanding visibility and weather protection, making passage-making comfortable and safe in all conditions. Air conditioning throughout the vessel ensures year-round comfort regardless of climate.

Below deck, a substantial engine room provides excellent access to machinery and systems. The spacious layout includes work benches and ample room for maintenance, making ownership and servicing considerably easier than on many comparable vessels.

Outside, the vessel offers exceptional entertaining and relaxation areas. The large aft cockpit on the main deck provides a versatile space for fishing, dining, entertaining guests, or simply enjoying life on the water. Above, the expansive flybridge offers additional seating, commanding views, and a second helm station.
The flybridge is further enhanced by a new bimini cover and new helm station cover.

The vessel has been comprehensively serviced between April and June 2026 and is presented ready for its next owner to enjoy.
Key Features:
Twin Caterpillar 375HP diesel engines
Shaft drive configuration
Twin Onan generators (15kVA and 8kVA)
Naiad fins stabilizers
3,780L diesel fuel capacity
1,500L fresh water capacity
Three cabins with private ensuites
Large heads with separate showers
Exceptional headroom throughout
Air conditioning throughout
Portuguese-style wheelhouse
Spacious engine room with work benches
Large main deck cockpit
Expansive flybridge with seating
New bimini cover
New helm station cover
Outstanding liveaboard capabilities
Proven offshore cruising pedigree
Whether your plans involve coastal cruising, extended offshore adventures, or simply enjoying a luxurious waterfront lifestyle, this DeFever 53 offers a rare combination of seaworthiness, comfort, space, and practicality.

Recently serviced and ready to cruise. Inspection is highly recommended.

Region
Victoria
Location
Melbourne Area Docklands VIC
Reference
DEF53
Usage
Family, Leisure, Cruising
Launch Year
1983
Hull
Fibreglass/GRP
HIN
AUWWA187569GJ6
Rego
861381N
Designer
Arthur DeFever
Builder
Sen Koh Taiwan
Length
52' 8" - 16.06m
Beam
5.05 m
Draft
1.5 m
Displacement
22 T
Deck Material
GRP/Gelcoat
Engine Make
Caterpillar
Engine
CATERPILLAR 3208TA, 8 CYLINDERS 375HP DIESEL
Number Engines
2
Horsepower
375 X 2
Power Source
Diesel
Engine Hours
1400 APPROX
Drive Type
Inboard Shaft Drive
Thrusters
NO
Genset
ONAN 15KVA, ONAN 8 KVA
Fuel
3600 LT
Water
1500 lt
Cabins
3 x double cabins.
Berths
6
Galley
Ample galley fully equipped with a burner gas cooktop with oven, large bench space, full size fridge freezer, breakfast bench, storage lockers.
Refrigeration
Full size 240V fridge/freezer in galley, second smaller 240V fridge in saloon
Stove
5 burnners gas stove with electric oven, microwave ovn
Water Maker
Water maker decomissioned
Hotwater System
80lt/ 240V hot water service
Shower
3
Toilet
3 x Raritan electric toilets with macerator pumps
Entertainment
TV in saloon
Air Conditioning
4 x Marine air/con units
Covers
Bimin cover in fly bridge, fly bridge helm cover
Ground Tackle
Ploughh anchor with electrci anchor winch with chain.
Safety Gear
In-shore safety gear
Bilge Pumps
3 x electric automatic bilge pumps
Life Jackets
10 x std PFD
Fire Protection
Portable fire extinguishers
Electrics
Naiad Model 201 idraulic stabilisers, 2 x 240V /24V Battery chargers, Washing machine, 2500W inverter, electric dinghy davit in flybridge
Electronics
Furuno GPS, Depth sounder.


ABOUT THE DEALER

Premier Yachting
52 River Esplanade
(Marina YE)
Docklands
VIC 3008 Australia






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