Meet Aquanimity
A 2021 Dufour 48 catamaran designed by Italian naval architect Umberto Felci — built from the ground up for exactly this kind of charter. Wide open social spaces, private queen-bed cabins, flybridge views, and a galley that produces meals your guests will still be talking about months later.
Designed for You.
The Dufour 48 — Designed for Charter
The Dufour 48 was conceived from the beginning as a premium charter platform — not retrofitted for it. Italian naval architect Umberto Felci gave it reverse bows for hydrodynamic efficiency, an aft-stepped mast for easier handling, and a flybridge helm that keeps the captain in command while guests enjoy the cockpit below.
Its 26-foot beam creates interior volume that rivals boats 10 feet longer. The 360-degree loft-style salon — wrapped in glass, connected to the cockpit by sliding doors — means natural light and Caribbean views from every seat inside.
CE Class A certified — meaning she's approved for open ocean sailing in any conditions. In the protected waters of the BVI, that translates to a rock-solid, comfortable platform wherever you anchor.
Full Yacht Specs
Every measurement, system, and capability — for those who want the full picture.
Three Cabins. Three Private Retreats.
Each of Aquanimity's three guest cabins has its own ensuite bathroom and its own staircase access directly from the cockpit — meaning your group's privacy is completely independent. No walking through another cabin to reach yours. No shared hallways. Just your own space, whenever you want it.
Port Forward Cabin
The forward port cabin is a quiet, private retreat at the bow — ideal for couples who want maximum separation from the rest of the group.
Starboard Forward Cabin
The forward starboard cabin mirrors the port in layout — a fully private suite in its own dedicated space within the hull.
Aft Cabin
The aft cabin is perfectly positioned — steps from the cockpit and swim platform, with the same queen island bed and ensuite setup as the forward cabins.
The 3-Cabin Layout
Dufour 48 · 3-Cabin Owner Layout · 3 Private Ensuite Guest Cabins · Separate Crew Quarters
Note: The starboard aft cabin (bottom left) is crew quarters — not a guest cabin. The center bunk cabin is used for luggage storage. Guests have exclusive use of the 3 private ensuite cabins.
Every Cabin Has Its Own Ensuite Bathroom
Each bathroom includes a private shower, vanity, and marine head. Three guests couples. Three completely private bathrooms. No scheduling conflicts at 7am. This is one of the most underrated advantages of the Dufour 48's 3-cabin layout for charter groups.
Every Detail Considered
The systems, comforts, and amenities that make a week aboard Aquanimity feel effortless.
Italian Design. Built for Charter.
Despite carrying a French name, the Dufour 48 was conceived entirely by an Italian design team. Naval architect Umberto Felci — Dufour's partner on monohulls since 2002 — applied the same performance-cruiser philosophy to a catamaran platform for the first time.
The result was a boat that behaved more like an agile monohull than a barge — with an aft-stepped mast that allowed a large self-tacking headsail, reverse bows that cut rather than pushed through water, and a flybridge that kept all sail controls accessible to a single-handed captain.
Manufactured by JJL Catamarans in Forlì, northern Italy, Aquanimity is hull number 29 or later — built at the height of the model's production refinement, with every improvement from earlier hulls incorporated. When Dufour eventually exited the catamaran market, it was this design they left behind — and it remains one of the most respected 48-foot charter platforms sailing today.
The BVI Is Waiting
Prime charter dates fill up months in advance — especially Christmas, New Year's, and spring break. Check availability and start planning your week aboard Aquanimity.
Everything You Need To Know.
What makes a catamaran better for BVI yacht charters?
Catamarans offer more stability, wider living spaces, shallow draft access, and better indoor-outdoor flow than many traditional monohull sailboats. For BVI charters, that means more comfort at anchor, easier swimming access, and more room to relax.
What is included in an all-inclusive BVI yacht charter?
An all-inclusive charter aboard Aquanimity typically includes the yacht, professional crew, onboard meals, standard beverages, fuel for normal cruising, linens, towels, snorkeling gear, water toys, and personalized itinerary planning. Special requests, premium items, shoreside dining, or unusual fees may be separate.
How many guests can sleep aboard Aquanimity?
Aquanimity accommodates up to 6 guests in 3 private ensuite guest cabins. This layout is ideal for couples, families, or small private groups who want a boutique luxury catamaran experience with privacy and comfort.
What makes Aquanimity different from a typical BVI charter catamaran?
Aquanimity combines the comfort of a modern Dufour 48 catamaran with a boutique, professionally crewed charter experience. Guests enjoy spacious social areas, private ensuite cabins, chef-prepared dining, Starlink internet, open-air lounging, and a personalized itinerary designed around their pace.
What is the dining experience like aboard Aquanimity?
Dining aboard Aquanimity is relaxed, elevated, and personalized. Meals are prepared around guest preferences, dietary needs, itinerary style, and provisioning availability, from open-air breakfasts and fresh lunches to sunset appetizers and Mediterranean-Caribbean inspired dinners.
What islands can we visit during our charter?
Popular BVI charter stops may include Norman Island, Peter Island, Cooper Island, Virgin Gorda, The Baths, North Sound, Jost Van Dyke, Sandy Cay, and Anegada, depending on weather, charter length, guest preferences, and itinerary planning.
Is Starlink internet available onboard?
Yes. Aquanimity offers Starlink internet onboard, allowing guests to stay connected while enjoying a private Caribbean sailing vacation. Connection quality can vary by location, weather, and marine conditions.
What is the best time to charter in the BVI?
The British Virgin Islands are popular for yacht charters throughout much of the year. Peak season generally runs from winter through spring, while summer can also be excellent for families and flexible travelers seeking a more relaxed island pace.
Does Aquanimity have an elevated flybridge?
Yes. Aquanimity features an elevated flybridge that provides panoramic Caribbean views, additional outdoor lounging space, and an ideal setting for sunset cocktails, island cruising, and relaxed open-air time underway or at anchor.
Are the cabins private and air conditioned?
Yes. Aquanimity offers 3 private ensuite guest cabins designed for comfort, privacy, and restful sleep. The yacht also includes climate-controlled interior spaces for added comfort during your charter.
Can we customize our BVI sailing itinerary?
Yes. Aquanimity offers a flexible itinerary based on your group’s interests, pace, weather, and charter length. Whether you prefer quiet anchorages, snorkeling, beach bars, scenic sailing, or relaxed onboard time, the route can be tailored around your experience.
What water activities are available aboard Aquanimity?
Aquanimity offers water-focused activities such as snorkeling, paddleboards, floating lounges, swimming access, and relaxing at anchor in clear Caribbean water. Exact activities may depend on conditions, location, and onboard equipment availability.