Atop average speeds of 32.2 knots, the Solaris Power 48 Open is powered by optional Volvo Penta IPS650 diesel engines. Courtesy Solaris Power

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Atop average speeds of 32.2 knots, the Solaris Power 48 Open is powered by optional Volvo Penta IPS650 diesel enginesolaris Power 48 Open is different. It knows its own identity. The yacht does day cruising and weekending splendidly. It’s also an eye-catcher with modern lobster-boat styling.

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The Solaris brand is associated with sailing yachts between 40 and 110 feet in length, which are usually seen in Northern European cruising grounds. Quality, seaworthiness, and elegance have been the brand's hallmarks since 1974. A production unit of Solaris began building motoryachts for other brands in 2008. In the end, this move opened the door to launching a line under the Solaris Power brand. With Solaris Power, Solaris worked with yachtsman and boatbuilder Norberto Ferretti and Victory Design in Italy.

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This is the first time Solaris Power has entered the power market. It seems to be a step in the right direction from what I saw during my day on board.

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A plumb bow provides a sharp entry into waves on the Solaris Power 48 Open. The polished stainless-steel anchor and stylish kickplate are housed in a snub nose at the peak. You'll enjoy a high-and-dry ride thanks to six feet of freeboard and some gently turned flare.

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Due to the yacht's high design, the master stateroom has six feet, six inches of headroom, and the hullside windows are well above the waterline. A retro-style, wraparound windscreen with a single glass pane offers clear sightlines and lends a hot-rod look to the metallic aquamarine paint. A hallmark of the 48 is its sturdy polished tubular frame.

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After cruising, owners and guests can catch rays on the sun pad. Foldout sides increase cockpit real estate. Courtesy Solaris Power

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There is a robust build to the single-mast hardtop support. A two-burner cooktop, double stainless-steel sinks, and a trash receptacle are hidden behind flip-up countertops aft of the three helm seats. There is stowage for dish-and-glass service for six in this console, which houses twin Vitrifrigo fridge drawers.

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Radars and antennas can be mounted on the hardtop. Despite my whacks, it remains rock-steady. Side curtains can be installed around the helm by installing some tracks.

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Two bench seats and a foldout teak table are located aft on the main deck. Alternately, guests can face forward by flipping the backrest on the forward seat. You can also watch swimmers in the water from the sun pad beneath that space.

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Deck space is increased by folding down the bulwarks to port and starboard. Balconies with a length of 9 feet and a width of 4 feet add up to 20 percent more space, and dock steps can be utilized for boarding. Due to their rigid construction, they did not creak under load and felt solid to walk on. You can add ropes and stanchions for safety.

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With full walk-around access, guests can access the forward sun pad or the swim platform aft. When lowered into the water, the hydraulic gangway doubles as a swim ladder.

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A low-profile, single-pane windshield enhances the yacht’s lines while offering protection from wind and spray. Courtesy Solaris Power

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Solaris Power 48 Open's interior is finished in oak or walnut, with light vinyl panels and fabrics that create an airy, bright atmosphere. In the forepeak, the master stateroom features a queen berth, twin lockers, windows, and portholes. An enclosed shower stall with a seat, a glass-basin sink, and an electric toilet are included in the en suite head.

For those looking for lower accommodations, there are several options available. This layout features one bedroom, one bathroom, as well as a separate lounge at the foot of the stairs. You can install a fridge and coffee maker, as well as a plush L-shaped sofa that converts into a berth for guests. There is also the option of a second stateroom with split berths, a table, a locker, and an en suite head with a shower stall. The day head serves as both the master head and the day head. It can be used for gear and stowage, or a crew cabin can be built.

According to Solaris, the company plans to offer more 44- to 70-foot powerboats, including Open, Lobster, and Flybridge models. The builder did an amazing job with the Power 48 Open, so I am eager to see what he can do with the Power 48 Open.

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Command and Control

There is a streamlined helm on the Solaris Power 48 Open that provides 360-degree visibility. It houses a VHF radio, Volvo Penta throttle controls, a joystick, and other systems, including two multifunction displays and backlit push buttons. A footrest and an adjustable helm seat are also included.

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By the Numbers

The 37,000-pound vessel is powered by two Volvo Penta D6 IPS650 engines with 480 horsepower each. With wide-open throttle, I averaged 32.2 knots and burned 49 gallons per hour for 260 nautical miles at wide-open throttle. As the 48 Open pulled back to the sweet spot at 2,400 rpm, it logged 16.5 knots, 17 gph, and a range of 384 nautical miles. As the diesels cruised at 7.1 knots for 879 nautical miles, they consumed 3.2 gallons of fuel per hour.

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