$WELL SPENT - CALIFORNIAN FOR SALE

1988 Californian 48 Convertible "$well Spent"

Kept on the West Coast, the 1988 Californian 48 Convertible "$well Spent" is a flybridge sportfishing yacht that blends traditional craftsmanship with modern capability. Driven by twin 550 HP Detroit Diesel 6V92MTA mains showing 685 hours, complemented by twin Onan 8 kW generators, refreshed Garmin electronics, and fresh bottom paint completed in July 2026, she is poised for cruising, bluewater angling, or extended escapes. Her two-stateroom, two-head configuration, expansive salon, and fishing cockpit make "$well Spent" a standout for families, anglers, and cruising enthusiasts seeking a timeless convertible sportfisher with proven performance, comfort, and lasting value. Living up to her name, every hour aboard "$well Spent" is an investment in unforgettable moments on the water.

Description

Introducing the 1988 Californian 48 Convertible “$well Spent,” a classic West Coast convertible that exemplifies Californian craftsmanship while delivering the performance, comfort, and fishability that make these yachts so coveted. Offered at $195,000, she presents as a true turn-key cruiser and sportfisher, combining the pedigree of twin Detroit Diesels with twin generators and the confidence of fresh bottom paint.

Freshly bottom painted in July 2026 and powered by dependable twin Detroit Diesel 6V92MTA 550 HP turbocharged diesels showing approximately 685 hours, “$well Spent” is outfitted for serious cruising and offshore action. Twin Onan 8kW generators supply robust shipboard power, while an updated Garmin GPSMAP 8610xsv anchors an impressive navigation suite complemented by an Airmar bronze CHIRP transducer and a Furuno 48-mile radar. Hydraulic steering, a flybridge hardtop with full enclosure, and a huge fishing cockpit underscore her purposeful design, and a 910-gallon fuel capacity invites extended coastal adventures. An Achilles tender with a Honda 20 HP outboard and a 1,000-lb electric davit are included, enhancing versatility at anchor and simplifying tender handling.

Her wide 15'2" beam creates a remarkably spacious interior, featuring a bright, welcoming salon, a comfortable two-stateroom layout, and two heads with separate stall showers. The fit and finish are emblematic of Californian’s status as a premier West Coast builder, delivering the enduring quality, timeless styling, and thoughtful ergonomics that seasoned owners appreciate.

Underway, the twin Detroit Diesel 6V92MTA engines provide dependable offshore performance, and they remain among the most respected marine powerplants for their durability, worldwide parts availability, and long service life when properly maintained. The twin Onan 8kW generators offer reliable electrical power whether you are anchored off Catalina or stretching your horizon along the Pacific Coast. Ready to cruise the California coast, explore Catalina Island, fish offshore, or head south to Baja, “$well Spent” offers exceptional value to the experienced angler, the cruising couple, and the adventurous family alike.

Comfortable accommodations

A hallmark of the Californian 48 is its remarkably open interior, where large salon windows bathe the space in natural light and beautifully crafted teak cabinetry imparts the inviting warmth that only a classic yacht can deliver. The salon is designed for effortless relaxation and entertaining, offering a comfortable sofa, accent chairs, a refined credenza, and a versatile hi-lo teak table, all complemented by an entertainment center with a smart TV and a stereo system, while overhead rod storage keeps gear neatly out of the way.

The master stateroom is a serene retreat featuring a queen pedestal berth, cedar-lined hanging lockers, and built-in drawers, together with a private ensuite head that includes a separate stall shower for at-sea comfort. Guests are welcomed in a thoughtfully arranged stateroom with upper and lower berths, a hanging locker, and ample drawer storage, served by a dedicated head complete with a separate stall shower, a VacuFlush toilet, and its own hanging locker.

Fully equipped galley

Located down to port to keep the salon open and spacious, the galley delivers the function and finish of a refined seagoing kitchen. It is appointed with a full-size refrigerator/freezer, a three-burner electric cooktop, an oven, and a microwave to cover every culinary need. Cleanup is effortless at the dual stainless-steel sinks, while pantry storage and an additional storage locker keep provisions neatly organized. A classic teak-and-holly sole underfoot adds warmth and timeless yacht style.

Updated electronics

The helm is equipped with a Garmin GPSMAP 8610xsv as the primary interface, paired with a Garmin 5208 chartplotter and a Garmin 230 GPS, while an Airmar B275C-LHW bronze CHIRP transducer delivers precise, high-definition soundings. Situational awareness is elevated by engine room CCTV and a Furuno 48-mile radar, and communications are crisp through a Standard Horizon VHF with AIS. Confident passagemaking is assured with a Benmar autopilot and a Glendinning engine synchronizer, complemented by a rudder angle indicator, a Datamarine depth sounder, a Ritchie compass, and pyrometers for meticulous engine monitoring.

Fishing features

Designed by anglers for anglers, this yacht delivers a huge cockpit anchored by a dedicated cockpit steering station and an integrated 35-gallon bait tank, complemented by a cockpit sink for efficient rigging and cleanup. Freshwater and saltwater washdowns keep the deck pristine, while a purpose-built tackle center and stainless rod holders keep every lure and rig within easy reach. A transom door streamlines landing and release, the 18-foot fiberglass outriggers spread your lines wide for optimal coverage, and thoughtful salon rod storage secures your gear neatly between strikes.

Deck features

At the bow, an electric windlass commands a 60-lb CQR anchor set on a bow roller, delivering confident holding and effortless deployment, while a stern anchor stands ready for secure two-point moorings. Tender handling is streamlined by a 1,000-lb electric davit paired with a stainless dinghy cradle, and water access is inviting and simple from the swim platform with ladder. Protection from the elements comes courtesy of a full Sunbrella canvas package, and safety is elevated with Halon fire suppression, an EPIRB, and a life ring.

Included tender package

Included with the sale is a 2009 Achilles 10'4" inflatable tender, paired with a Honda 20 HP Four-Stroke Outboard, making island excursions, harbor transportation, and waterfront dining effortless and convenient.

Specifications

Measuring 48' LOA with a 15'2" beam and a 4'7" draft, this yacht carries an approximate dry displacement of 40,000 lbs. Long-range confidence comes from a fuel capacity of 910 gallons, complemented by 210 gallons of fresh water and a holding tank of 50 gallons. Power is delivered by twin Detroit Diesel 6V92MTA engines, each producing 550 HP, showing approximately 685 engine hours, while onboard systems are supported by twin Onan 8kW generators with approximately 435 hours.

Brokers remark

The Californian 48 Convertible has earned a loyal following for good reason, uniting rugged offshore capability with the comfort of a true cruising yacht. She feels equally at home chasing tuna, cruising to Catalina, or hosting relaxed weekends aboard with family and friends. Well equipped, freshly maintained, and thoughtfully outfitted, "$well Spent" reflects clear pride of ownership and is ready for her next adventure.

A personal perspective

Every yacht carries a story, and it is my privilege to connect that story with its next owner. For me, '$well Spent' is more than a beautifully maintained Californian; she embodies the adventures already lived and the memories still waiting to be made. Whether your plans lean toward offshore fishing, a cruise to Catalina, or unhurried days on the water with family and friends, I would be honored to introduce you to this exceptional yacht and help you begin your next chapter.