4788 Pilothouse

Arguably the best big-boat value ever, the Bayliner 4788 Pilothouse is a restyled and lengthened version of the popular 4550/4588 Pilothouse produced from 1984–93. Aside from the additional two feet of hull length, Bayliner designers reversed the radar arch on the 4788 and softened the flybridge profile for a sleeker, more contemporary appearance. Inside, the versatile pilothouse floorplan of the original 4588 was continued in the 4788 with very few changes. The L-shaped lounge was moved to starboard in the salon, and the increased hull length of the 4788 can be seen in the enlarged galley and salon dimensions. Two of the three staterooms have double berths, and the third cabin—which opens to the master stateroom—has a settee with hinged upper and lower berths. Visibility from the raised pilothouse is excellent. The cockpit is sheltered from the sun by a bridge overhang, and port/starboard pilothouse doors provide quick access to the foredeck. On the downside, the engine room is a tight fit. Early models with 315hp Hino diesels cruise efficiently at 16–18 knots, and later models with 370hp Cummins diesels cruise at 20–22 knots.