Honestly IMO, I think you made a better choice with your Nordic. You've got a little more top end speed if you ever want it. You've got a single with a full keel protected prop, and you've got a boat that's 14 years newer.
The Defeve has twin unprotected props and old CATs with over 3000 hours that could very well need a major overhaul. Personally i'd be afraid of how much $ that Defeve could quickly vacuum out of your accounts...
We are part timers (5 months per year) on our boat traveling the Western Rivers during the summer months but winter on the Gulf Coast.
The choice is truly a personal one but as a current owner of a DeFever 53 and previous owner of a DeFever 44, the props aren't as exposed as you describe. There is a full length keel that extends below the lowest point of your props. Not as protected as a single screw with full keel, but I'm not losing sleep whether my props are going to be damaged. Also, keep in mind, there are two types of boaters... those who have run aground and those less truthful!
Regarding the Cat 3208's.. 3K hours is just barely broke in. Especially if they have been reasonably maintained with clean fuel, clean oil and clean air.
We are stabilized with Wesmar 1000s and lope along just under 10mph burning around 6gph while running a 15KW genset for AC comfort. Our longest nonstop was from Ft. Myers to Panama City with 2 to 4s and never felt uncomfortable.
The three stateroom layout with a full head/shower for each stateroom allows guests to enjoy privacy unlike anything comparable. My wife truly enjoys her full sized refrigerator along with her full size dishwasher (it's not me)
.
The standup engine room offers a comfortable and accessible place to work on those bullet proof Cats and both Gensets. There is room for all of your spare parts and tools to use them.
Having 5 separate AC zones allows each person to adjust the temperature for their individual pleasure.
As you can see, I am a fan of DeFever boats (visited the factory a couple years ago) and a big fan of DeFever owners.
Okay... now the usual disclaimer, I have no ties to this advertised boat nor do I know who the broker is.
All the best,
Rusty Bliss
"Kristine"
DeFever 53 POC
Somerville, TN