17 Legendary Bluewater Sailboats Under 50 Feet (with Photos)

Bluewater sailboats have long been admired for their ability to handle the toughest conditions and take you on adventures across vast oceans. In our list, we'll introduce you to 17 legendary bluewater sailboats under 50 feet, from classic designs that have stood the test of time to modern innovations that have captured the hearts of sailors. These boats are known for their exceptional seaworthiness, comfort, and performance.

The legendary bluewater sailboats under 50 feet include Rustler 36, Tartan 37, Hallberg-Rassy 42F, Baba 30, Island Packet 38, Pacific Seacraft 37, Valiant 40, Najad 370, Moody 42, Halberg-Rassy 39, Sweden Yachts 45, Boreal 47, Amel Super Maramu, Outbound 44, Hylas 49, Malo 46, and Garcia Exploration 45.

These legendary sailboats have earned their reputation through excellent performance, durability, and comfort on long offshore journeys. When you choose the best bluewater sailboat to explore the open ocean, consider your personal sailing preferences. If you're looking for a budget-friendly boat, Baba 30 costs only $150,000.

  • You can purchase these famous bluewater sailboats for $150,000 to $1.5 million.
  • The length overall (LOA) of these boats ranges from 30 feet to 49 feet.
  • When you choose a sailboat, consider its size, design, amenities and features, your budget, and your sailing purpose.

45 foot bluewater sailboat

On this page:

Best bluewater sailboats under 50 feet, key features of bluewater sailboats, choosing your bluewater sailboat.

In this section, we will explore 17 of the most famous and best bluewater sailboats under 50 feet. These boats have earned their place in sailing history and are known for their exceptional performance, craftsmanship, and design.

LOA Beam Size Draft Size Purchase Price
36 feet 10 feet, 9 inches 5 feet, 6 inches $400,000
37 feet 11 feet, 9 inches 6 feet, 2 inches $300,000
42 feet 13 feet, 1 inch 6 feet, 8 inches $600,000
30 feet 10 feet, 6 inches 5 feet, 3 inches $150,000
38 feet 12 feet, 4 inches 4 feet, 7 inches $400,000
37 feet 10 feet, 10 inches 5 feet, 3 inches $400,000
40 feet 12 feet 6 feet $500,000
37 feet 11 feet, 6 inches 6 feet $400,000
42 feet 13 feet, 1 inch 6 feet, 8 inches $500,000
39 feet 12 feet, 6 inches 6 feet, 1 inch $500,000
45 feet 13 feet, 5 inches 7 feet, 2 inches $800,000
47 feet 14 feet, 3 inches 6 feet, 6 inches $1.5 million
37 feet 11 feet, 6 inches 6 feet $100,000
44 feet 13 feet, 4 inches 6 feet, 6 inches $800,000
49 feet 14 feet, 6 inches 6 feet, 9 inches $1 million
46 feet 13 feet, 9 inches 6 feet, 9 inches $1 million
45 feet 14 feet, 5 inches 7 feet, 3 inches $1.5 million

45 foot bluewater sailboat

The Rustler 36 is a classic long-keeled yacht designed for ocean cruising. With a sturdily built hull and excellent sailing performance, this boat is perfect for those looking for a reliable and timeless experience on the open seas.

Design and construction of Rustler 36

The Rustler 36 is a classic design that is known for its seaworthiness and durability. It is constructed with a solid fiberglass hull and a full keel. The deck is also made of fiberglass and is reinforced with a balsa core. The Rustler 36 is designed to be easy to handle and maintain, with a simple rig and a functional interior.

Creature comforts and functionality of Rustler 36

The Rustler 36 is a classic design that is known for its seaworthiness and durability. It features a comfortable interior with ample storage space, a galley, and a head. The cockpit is spacious and well-protected, with easy access to the deck. The Rustler 36 is designed for comfortable long-distance cruising, with features such as a windvane self-steering system and a cutter rig for versatility in sailing.

45 foot bluewater sailboat

The Tartan 37 is a well-known sailboat for its balance of performance, comfort, and seaworthiness. Designed by Sparkman & Stephens, it is a versatile cruiser with a roomy layout, known for its durability and ease of handling.

Design and construction of Tartan 37

The Tartan 37 is a classic design that is known for its performance and comfort. It is constructed with a solid fiberglass hull and a fin keel. The deck is also made of fiberglass and is reinforced with a balsa core. The Tartan 37 is designed to be fast and easy to handle, with a spacious and comfortable interior.

Creature comforts and functionality of Tartan 37

The Tartan 37 is a classic design that is known for its performance and comfort. It features a spacious and well-appointed interior, with a galley, a head, and ample storage space. The cockpit is comfortable and well-protected, with easy access to the deck. The Tartan 37 is designed for comfortable long-distance cruising, with features such as a windvane self-steering system and a cutter rig for versatility in sailing.

If you're looking for the best bluewater sailboats under 40 feet , here are the top 13.

Hallberg-Rassy 42F

The Hallberg-Rassy 42F is a solidly constructed, luxurious sailing yacht that has gained a reputation for its exceptional build quality and cruising capabilities. This yacht offers incredible comfort and performance on long passages.

Design and construction of Hallberg-Rassy 42F

The Hallberg-Rassy 42F is a modern design that is known for its luxury and performance. It is constructed with a solid fiberglass hull and a fin keel. The deck is also made of fiberglass and is reinforced with a balsa core. The Hallberg-Rassy 42F is designed to be fast and easy to handle, with a luxurious and functional interior.

Creature comforts and functionality of Hallberg-Rassy 42F

The Hallberg-Rassy 42F is a modern design that is known for its luxury and performance. It features a spacious and comfortable interior, with a well-equipped galley, a head, and ample storage space. The cockpit is well-protected and comfortable, with easy access to the deck. The Hallberg-Rassy 42F is designed for comfortable long-distance cruising, with features such as a bow thruster and a cutter rig for versatility in sailing.

45 foot bluewater sailboat

Designed by the famous naval architect Robert H. Perry, the Baba 30 is a tough, full-keeled cruiser with a spacious interior. Its solid construction and seakindly characteristics make it a popular choice for bluewater sailing.

Design and construction of Baba 30

The Baba 30 is a classic design that is known for its seaworthiness and durability. It is constructed with a solid fiberglass hull and a full keel. The deck is also made of fiberglass and is reinforced with a balsa core. The Baba 30 is designed to be easy to handle and maintain, with a simple rig and a functional interior.

Creature comforts and functionality of Baba 30

The Baba 30 is a classic design that is known for its seaworthiness and durability. It features a comfortable interior with ample storage space, a galley, and a head. The cockpit is spacious and well-protected, with easy access to the deck. The Baba 30 is designed for comfortable long-distance cruising, with features such as a windvane self-steering system and a cutter rig for versatility in sailing.

Island Packet 38

45 foot bluewater sailboat

The Island Packet 38 is known for its sturdy construction and comfortable accommodations. With its full-foil keel and cutter rig, this boat offers exceptional stability and handling across a wide range of ocean conditions.

Design and construction of Island Packet 38

The Island Packet 38 is a modern design that is known for its comfort and performance. It is constructed with a solid fiberglass hull and a full keel. The deck is also made of fiberglass and is reinforced with a balsa core. The Island Packet 38 is designed to be easy to handle and maintain, with a spacious and comfortable interior.

Creature comforts and functionality of Island Packet 38

The Island Packet 38 is a modern design that is known for its comfort and performance. It features a spacious and well-appointed interior, with a galley, a head, and ample storage space. The cockpit is comfortable and well-protected, with easy access to the deck. The Island Packet 38 is designed for comfortable long-distance cruising, with features such as a bow thruster and a cutter rig for versatility in sailing.

Pacific Seacraft 37

45 foot bluewater sailboat

Designed by William Crealock, the Pacific Seacraft 37 is a well-built cruiser designed for offshore sailing. Its solid construction and traditional lines make it an enduring favorite among bluewater sailors.

Design and construction of Pacific Seacraft 37

The Pacific Seacraft 37 is a classic design that is known for its seaworthiness and durability. It is constructed with a solid fiberglass hull and a full keel. The deck is also made of fiberglass and is reinforced with a balsa core. The Pacific Seacraft 37 is designed to be easy to handle and maintain, with a simple rig and a functional interior. It also features a skeg-mounted rudder and a cutter rig for versatility in sailing.

Creature comforts and functionality of Pacific Seacraft 37

The Pacific Seacraft 37 is a classic design that is known for its seaworthiness and durability. It features a comfortable interior with ample storage space, a galley, and a head. The cockpit is spacious and well-protected, with easy access to the deck. The Pacific Seacraft 37 is designed for comfortable long-distance cruising, with features such as a windvane self-steering system and a cutter rig for versatility in sailing.

45 foot bluewater sailboat

The Valiant 40, designed by Bob Perry, is a classic bluewater cruising sailboat. With a moderate-displacement hull, a powerful sail plan, and spacious accommodations, this boat has earned a reputation for seaworthiness and performance.

Design and construction of Valiant 40

The Valiant 40 is a classic design that is known for its seaworthiness and durability. It is constructed with a solid fiberglass hull and a fin keel. The deck is also made of fiberglass and is reinforced with a balsa core. The Valiant 40 is designed to be fast and easy to handle, with a spacious and comfortable interior. It also features a skeg-mounted rudder and a cutter rig for versatility in sailing.

Creature comforts and functionality of Valiant 40

The Valiant 40 is a classic design that is known for its seaworthiness and durability. It features a comfortable interior with ample storage space, a galley, and a head. The cockpit is spacious and well-protected, with easy access to the deck. The Valiant 40 is designed for comfortable long-distance cruising, with features such as a windvane self-steering system and a cutter rig for versatility in sailing.

45 foot bluewater sailboat

The Swedish-built Najad 370 is a high-quality, luxurious cruiser popular among experienced sailors for its comfortable and spacious interior and top-notch build quality. Its hull design and rigging provide excellent performance and stability on long voyages.

Design and construction of Najad 370

The Najad 370 is a modern design that is known for its luxury and performance. It is constructed with a solid fiberglass hull and a fin keel. The deck is also made of fiberglass and is reinforced with a balsa core. The Najad 370 is designed to be fast and easy to handle, with a luxurious and functional interior. It also features a skeg-mounted rudder and a cutter rig for versatility in sailing.

Creature comforts and functionality of Najad 370

The Najad 370 is a modern design that is known for its luxury and performance. It features a spacious and comfortable interior, with a well-equipped galley, a head, and ample storage space. The cockpit is well-protected and comfortable, with easy access to the deck. The Najad 370 is designed for comfortable long-distance cruising, with features such as a bow thruster and a cutter rig for versatility in sailing.

45 foot bluewater sailboat

The Moody 42 is a well-built, robust cruiser built for bluewater sailing. With a spacious layout and comfortable accommodations, this boat provides a balance of performance and luxury for extensive cruising.

Design and construction of Moody 42

The Moody 42 is a modern design that is known for its comfort and performance. It is constructed with a solid fiberglass hull and a fin keel. The deck is also made of fiberglass and is reinforced with a balsa core. The Moody 42 is designed to be fast and easy to handle, with a spacious and comfortable interior. It also features a skeg-mounted rudder and a cutter rig for versatility in sailing.

Creature comforts and functionality of Moody 42

The Moody 42 is a modern design that is known for its comfort and performance. It features a spacious and well-appointed interior, with a galley, a head, and ample storage space. The cockpit is comfortable and well-protected, with easy access to the deck. The Moody 42 is designed for comfortable long-distance cruising, with features such as a bow thruster and a cutter rig for versatility in sailing.

If you're wondering what's the best keel design for bluewater sailing , here's our article on it.

Halberg-Rassy 39

The Hallberg-Rassy 39 is a popular bluewater cruiser designed for long-distance voyages. Its solid construction, high-quality materials, and well-designed accommodations make it one of the top choices among seasoned sailors.

Design and construction of Halberg-Rassy 39

The Halberg-Rassy 39 is a modern design that is known for its luxury and performance. It is constructed with a solid fiberglass hull and a fin keel. The deck is also made of fiberglass and is reinforced with a balsa core. The Halberg-Rassy 39 is designed to be fast and easy to handle, with a luxurious and functional interior. It also features a skeg-mounted rudder and a cutter rig for versatility in sailing.

Creature comforts and functionality of Halberg-Rassy 39

The Halberg-Rassy 39 is a modern design that is known for its luxury and performance. It features a spacious and comfortable interior, with a well-equipped galley, a head, and ample storage space. The cockpit is well-protected and comfortable, with easy access to the deck. The Halberg-Rassy 39 is designed for comfortable long-distance cruising, with features such as a bow thruster and a cutter rig for versatility in sailing.

Sweden Yachts 45

45 foot bluewater sailboat

The Sweden Yachts 45 is an elegant and high-performance cruiser, known for its fast and comfortable passages. Its well-built hull and high-quality construction make it a popular choice for long-distance ocean voyages.

Design and construction of Sweden Yachts 45

The Sweden Yachts 45 is a modern design that is known for its luxury and performance. It is constructed with a solid fiberglass hull and a fin keel. The deck is also made of fiberglass and is reinforced with a balsa core. The Sweden Yachts 45 is designed to be fast and easy to handle, with a luxurious and functional interior. It also features a deep bulb keel and a cutter rig for versatility in sailing.

Creature comforts and functionality of Sweden Yachts 45

The Sweden Yachts 45 is a modern design that is known for its luxury and performance. It features a spacious and comfortable interior, with a well-equipped galley, a head, and ample storage space. The cockpit is well-protected and comfortable, with easy access to the deck. The Sweden Yachts 45 is designed for comfortable long-distance cruising, with features such as a bow thruster and a cutter rig for versatility in sailing.

If you're planning to sail solo, here are the best solo bluewater sailboats .

The Boreal 47 is an aluminum sailing yacht designed for bluewater cruising in heavy conditions. With its lifting keel, watertight bulkheads, and solid construction, this boat is highly respected for its safety and durability.

Design and construction of Boreal 47

The Boreal 47 is a modern design that is known for its seaworthiness and durability. It is constructed with a composite hull and a swing keel. The deck is also made of composite and is reinforced with a foam core. The Boreal 47 is designed to be easy to handle and maintain, with a simple rig and a functional interior. It also features a skeg-mounted rudder and a cutter rig for versatility in sailing.

Creature comforts and functionality of Boreal 47

The Boreal 47 is a modern design that is known for its seaworthiness and durability. It features a comfortable and well-appointed interior, with a galley, a head, and ample storage space. The cockpit is spacious and well-protected, with easy access to the deck. The Boreal 47 is designed for comfortable long-distance cruising, with features such as a windvane self-steering system and a cutter rig for versatility in sailing.

45 foot bluewater sailboat

The Tayana 37 is a classic, seaworthy sailboat designed by Robert Perry, known for its durability, comfort, and versatility in sailing. It is a popular choice for long-distance cruising and offshore sailing.

Design and construction of Tayana 37

The Tayana 37 was designed by Robert Perry and first introduced in 1975. It is a full-keeled, heavy displacement, double-ended design that is known for its seaworthiness and durability. The hull is hand-laid fiberglass, with a solid fiberglass laminate below the waterline and a cored laminate above the waterline. The deck is also hand-laid fiberglass, with a balsa core for added insulation and stiffness.

Creature comforts and functionality of Tayana 37

The Tayana 37 features a comfortable and well-appointed interior, with a galley, a head, and ample storage space. The interior is finished in teak and features a traditional layout with a V-berth forward, a main salon, a galley, a head, and a quarterberth aft. The cockpit is spacious and well-protected, with easy access to the deck. The Tayana 37 is designed for comfortable long-distance cruising, with features such as a windvane self-steering system and a cutter rig for versatility in sailing.

Outbound 44

45 foot bluewater sailboat

The Outbound 44 is a performance cruiser built for comfortable and fast bluewater sailing. With its powerful sail plan, modern hull design, and thoughtfully laid-out interior, this boat is perfect for those seeking a blend of performance and comfort on the high seas.

Design and construction of Outbound 44

The Outbound 44 is a modern design that is known for its comfort and performance. It is constructed with a solid fiberglass hull and a fin keel. The deck is also made of fiberglass and is reinforced with a balsa core. The Outbound 44 is designed to be fast and easy to handle, with a spacious and comfortable interior. It also features a skeg-mounted rudder and a cutter rig for versatility in sailing.

Creature comforts and functionality of Outbound 44

The Outbound 44 is a modern design that is known for its comfort and performance. It features a spacious and well-appointed interior, with a galley, a head, and ample storage space. The cockpit is comfortable and well-protected, with easy access to the deck. The Outbound 44 is designed for comfortable long-distance cruising, with features such as a bow thruster and a cutter rig for versatility in sailing.

45 foot bluewater sailboat

The Hylas 49 is a high-end bluewater cruising yacht known for exceptional build quality and luxurious accommodations. Its powerful sail plan and well-designed hull enable it to provide comfortable and fast passages on any voyage.

Design and construction of Hylas 49

The Hylas 49 is a modern design that is known for its luxury and performance. It is constructed with a solid fiberglass hull and a fin keel. The deck is also made of fiberglass and is reinforced with a balsa core. The Hylas 49 is designed to be fast and easy to handle, with a luxurious and functional interior. It also features a skeg-mounted rudder and a cutter rig for versatility in sailing.

Creature comforts and functionality of Hylas 49

The Hylas 49 is a modern design that is known for its luxury and performance. It features a spacious and comfortable interior, with a well-equipped galley, a head, and ample storage space. The cockpit is well-protected and comfortable, with easy access to the deck. The Hylas 49 is designed for comfortable long-distance cruising, with features such as a bow thruster and a cutter rig for versatility in sailing. The Hylas 49 also features a center cockpit layout for added comfort and protection.

The Malo 46 is a Swedish-built, high-quality bluewater cruiser designed for sailing in varied conditions. Its solid construction, comfortable interior, and impressive performance make it a popular choice among experienced sailors.

Design and construction of Malo 46

The Malo 46 is a modern design that is known for its luxury and performance. It is constructed with a solid fiberglass hull and a fin keel. The deck is also made of fiberglass and is reinforced with a balsa core. The Malo 46 is designed to be fast and easy to handle, with a luxurious and functional interior. It also features a skeg-mounted rudder and a cutter rig for versatility in sailing.

Creature comforts and functionality of Malo 46

The Malo 46 is a modern design that is known for its luxury and performance. It features a spacious and comfortable interior, with a well-equipped galley, a head, and ample storage space. The cockpit is well-protected and comfortable, with easy access to the deck. The Malo 46 is designed for comfortable long-distance cruising, with features such as a bow thruster and a cutter rig for versatility in sailing. The Malo 46 also features a center cockpit layout for added comfort and protection.

Garcia Exploration 45

45 foot bluewater sailboat

The Garcia Exploration 45 is an innovative, aluminum-hulled cruising sailboat designed for long-distance voyaging. Its reinforced hull, centerboard, and twin rudders make it well-suited for navigating challenging ocean conditions and reaching remote destinations.

Design and construction of Garcia Exploration 45

The Garcia Exploration 45 is a modern design that is known for its seaworthiness and durability. It is constructed with an aluminum hull and a swing keel. The deck is also made of aluminum and is reinforced with a foam core. The Garcia Exploration 45 is designed to be easy to handle and maintain, with a simple rig and a functional interior. It also features a skeg-mounted rudder and a cutter rig for versatility in sailing. The aluminum construction provides added strength and durability, making it ideal for long-distance cruising.

Maintenance costs for the Garcia Exploration 45 are moderate, with regular upkeep required for the engine, rigging, and other systems. The aluminum construction of the Garcia Exploration 45 may require specialized maintenance and repairs.

Creature comforts and functionality of Garcia Exploration 45

The Garcia Exploration 45 is a modern design that is known for its seaworthiness and durability. It features a comfortable and well-appointed interior, with a galley, a head, and ample storage space. The cockpit is spacious and well-protected, with easy access to the deck. The Garcia Exploration 45 is designed for comfortable long-distance cruising, with features such as a windvane self-steering system and a cutter rig for versatility in sailing.

The Garcia Exploration 45 also features an aluminum construction for added strength and durability, and a lifting keel for shallow water exploration. The Garcia Exploration 45 also has a unique feature of a watertight bulkhead forward of the living area for added safety.

45 foot bluewater sailboat

Size and design of the sailboat

The best sailboats in this category offer a well-balanced blend of performance, storage, and living space. As many of these boats are designed for long-distance cruising, having ample storage for provisions, equipment, and personal items is essential. While smaller sailboats might be more affordable and easier to handle, you'll need to strike a balance between size and the level of comfort you desire on extended voyages.

Durability of a bluewater sailboat

These boat's hulls are typically constructed with sturdy, long-lasting materials like fiberglass, steel, or even aluminum. Additionally, the rigging and deck hardware should be robust, capable of withstanding harsh weather conditions and continuous use. As you evaluate potential bluewater sailboats, pay attention to the quality of the craftsmanship and materials used throughout the boat, as this will largely determine its ability to handle the rigors of ocean sailing.

Seaworthiness of the sailboat

This characteristic refers to a boat's ability to handle rough seas, high winds, and other challenging conditions that you might encounter on your journeys. A seaworthy sailboat should exhibit:

  • A stable, well-designed hull that can efficiently cut through waves
  • A deep, secure cockpit to protect the crew from the elements
  • High-quality, easily accessible safety equipment
  • Solid, watertight hatches and portlights

When evaluating a sailboat's seaworthiness, it's important to consider its design, construction, and previous ocean-crossing performance, if available.

Comfort and livability of the boat

As you'll likely be spending extended periods at sea, it's essential to have a comfortable living space to make your journey more enjoyable. Key factors in comfort and livability include:

  • A roomy, well-ventilated cabin with ample headroom
  • Adequate sleeping arrangements for the crew
  • A functional galley for meal preparation
  • Efficient systems for heating, ventilation, and lighting
To learn more about bluewater sailing , here's our comprehensive article on it.

Let's discuss a few key factors you should look for to find the perfect bluewater sailboat for your needs.

Size matters : As we're focusing on sailboats under 50 feet, it's important to think about how the size of the boat will impact your cruising experience. Smaller sailboats tend to be easier to manage and maintain, while larger ones typically offer more space and comfort. Take into account your sailing skills and the size of your crew when making a decision.

Design and construction : A well-built sailboat plays a vital role in your safety and success when sailing in blue waters. Look for proven bluewater sailboat designs, like those found on Waterborne Magazine's list or Yachting World's selection. A solid construction and well-maintained hull will ensure your boat can withstand the rigors of offshore sailing.

Budget and maintenance costs : It's crucial to consider not only the initial purchase price but also the ongoing maintenance costs when choosing your bluewater sailboat. Established designs often have a good track record for reliability, which can help keep costs down in the long run. Some sailboats under $100,000 can still provide excellent bluewater cruising experiences.

Sailing purpose and destination : Your choice of sailboat will also depend on the type of sailing you plan to do and the destinations you wish to visit. Are you looking for a boat to tackle lengthy ocean passages or a vessel for coastal cruising? Each type might require different features and focuses, so plan accordingly.

Creature comforts and functionality : Finally, think about the amenities you want on your bluewater sailboat—you'll be spending quite some time onboard. A functional galley, comfortable sleeping arrangements, and a functional navigation station are just a few of the features that can make your sailing experience more enjoyable.

Leave a comment

You may also like, 13 world-famous bluewater sailboats under 40 feet.

Bluewater sailboats are designed to handle long-distance cruising in open water, so they need to be tough, reliable, and seaworthy. If you want to set sail on a …

45 foot bluewater sailboat

7 Legendary Solo Bluewater Sailboats Worth Considering

Small sailboat in middle of huge blue sea

What Is Bluewater Sailing?

45 foot bluewater sailboat

What's the Best Keel Design for Bluewater Sailing?

Birdseye view of beach and coastline with lots of small sailboats

Different Types of Sailing and Racing Explained

Sail Universe

10 of the Best Bluewater Sailboats Under 40 Feet

Best Bluewater Sailboats under 40 feet Hallberg-Rassy 372

Navigating the open seas requires a model that combines performance, safety, and comfort. For sailors seeking adventure beyond the horizon, choosing the right bluewater sailboa t is paramount. In this article, we’ll delve into the technical specifications and features of 10 of the best bluewater sailboats, both monohulls and catamarans, all under 40 feet in length.

Hallberg-Rassy 372

Length: 37’6″.

Best Bluewater Sailboats under 40 feet: Hallberg-Rassy 372

The Hallberg-Rassy 372 was built in 120 units and is optimized for comfortable and fast family cruising. She will take you anywhere, anytime. Compared to the Hallberg-Rassy 37, the 372 is only a few centimetres longer, is 5 cm wider and has a fuller transom. The canoe body is slightly shallower, the waterline longer and the keel slightly deeper and lighter. The aft and mid sections of the hull are flatter and the bow section sharper. The sheer line is more pronounced. All this gives both improved sailing performance and more interior space. The modern sailplan is easy to handle. The yacht breathes graceful elegance.

Hallberg-Rassy may be best known for its centre cockpit boats, but over 5 900 of so far 9 700 built Hallberg-Rassys have an aft cockpit. The aft cockpit 372 is in every aspect an all-new Frers design and is not based on the centre cockpit Hallberg-Rassy 37.

The boat features a moderate draft, allowing it to navigate a variety of water depths with ease. The combination of a long waterline and a well-balanced sail plan contributes to its impressive performance under sail. The Hallberg-Rassy 372’s deck layout is thoughtfully designed for single-handed sailing, with well-positioned winches and control lines.

Stepping below deck, the Hallberg-Rassy 372 welcomes sailors into a spacious and well-appointed interior. The layout is designed with extended bluewater cruising in mind, offering comfort and practicality. The main saloon features a U-shaped settee around a large dining table, providing a cozy space for meals and relaxation.

bluewater sailboats

The galley is equipped with all the amenities needed for preparing meals at sea, including a stove, oven, refrigerator, and ample storage space. The cabins are designed for comfort, with generous berths and storage solutions that make long journeys a pleasure rather than a challenge.

Outremer 4X

Length: 40′.

Best Bluewater sailboats under 40 feet Outremer 4X

This catamaran showcases a fusion of speed and stability. The Outremer 4X’s lightweight design and innovative rigging contribute to its impressive performance, making it a preferred choice for bluewater sailors with a penchant for velocity.

The Outremer 4X stands as a performance catamaran unwavering in its commitment to seaworthiness, staying true to its ocean cruising heritage. Its construction prioritizes weight optimization without compromising on structural integrity. The sail plan and deck layout are meticulously designed to navigate diverse weather conditions seamlessly.

Maintaining the comfort standards set by its predecessor, the Outremer 45, the Outremer 4X goes beyond, pushing the limits of performance for an ocean cruiser. Whether embarking on blue-water cruising adventures with the family or engaging in competitive regattas, the Outremer 4X excels in both realms, showcasing its versatility and capability to meet the demands of various sailing pursuits.

Pacific Seacraft Crealock 37

Length: 37’10”.

Best Bluewater sailboats under 40 feet Pacific Seacraft Crealock 37

The Pacific Seacraft 37, commonly referred to as the Crealock 37, is an American sailboat meticulously designed by the esteemed British naval architect, W. I. B. Crealock, with a primary focus on cruising. The initial construction of this sailboat commenced in 1978, marking the inception of a vessel renowned for its seafaring capabilities and thoughtful design.

Recognizing its exceptional contribution to sailing, the Crealock 37 earned a prestigious spot in the American Sailboat Hall of Fame in 2002, solidifying its legacy as a vessel of timeless significance within the maritime community.

The Crealock 37, a keelboat primarily constructed with a fiberglass hull featuring a plywood core and adorned with wooden accents, presents a versatile sailing experience. Its masthead sloop rig is complemented by optional configurations, including a cutter rig or yawl rig with a mizzen mast. The vessel boasts a distinctive design, featuring a raked stem, a raised canoe transom, a skeg-mounted rudder controlled by a wheel, and a fixed fin keel. With a displacement of 16,200 lb (7,348 kg) and a substantial 6,200 lb (2,812 kg) of lead ballast, the Crealock 37 ensures stability and seaworthiness.

Offering flexibility, the boat provides a draft of 5.50 ft (1.68 m) with the standard keel and 4.92 ft (1.50 m) with the optional shoal draft keel.

Designed to accommodate up to seven individuals, the Crealock 37 features a versatile layout. The bow offers an angled “V” berth, the main salon provides a double and single settee berth, and the stern houses a double berth alongside a quarter berth. The galley, located on the starboard side at the foot of the companionway steps, includes a double sink, a three-burner stove and oven, and a top-loading refrigerator. The head, positioned forward on the starboard side just aft of the bow cabin, includes a shower. A navigation station is thoughtfully provided aft on the port side, and the vessel ensures ample below-deck headroom of 75 in (191 cm). Ventilation is facilitated by two cabin hatches.

For sailing convenience, the jib is sheeted to short jib tracks, while the mainsheet traveler and three winches are mounted on the coach house roof. Additionally, two primary jib winches are strategically placed on the cockpit coamings.

Length: 37″11′

Best Bluewater sailboats under 40 feet Lagoon 380

The Lagoon 380, a French sailboat designed by Van Peteghem/Lauriot-Prevost, serves the dual purpose of a cruiser and a yacht charter vessel. This versatile watercraft made its debut in the sailing scene in 1999.

The Lagoon 380 offers a flexible accommodation layout, featuring either three or four cabins designed for private use or yacht charter ventures. In both configurations, a spacious main salon welcomes occupants with an oval table and U-shaped seating. Positioned in the aft starboard section of the main salon, the galley is well-appointed, equipped with a two-burner stove, an icebox, and a double sink. A navigation station complements the galley on the port side of the salon.

In the four-cabin arrangement, each hull houses a double berth fore and aft, accompanied by a centrally located head. The three-cabin layout opts for a larger head in the starboard forward cabin while retaining the port side head. Maximum headroom reaches 80 inches (203 cm) in the main salon and 74 inches (188 cm) in the cabins.

Designed for optimal downwind sailing, the vessel can be outfitted with a 570 sq ft (53 m2) asymmetrical gennaker. The Lagoon 380 exhibits a hull speed of 8.05 knots (14.91 km/h).

Introduced in 2003, the S2 model brought forth several minor enhancements. Notable improvements included a more spacious shower area, enhanced storage shelving, a redesigned galley, and a double helm seat. While Katamarans.com acknowledges these updates, noting them as a marketing refresh, some potential buyers express a preference for the older models due to their increased storage capacity, superior interior finishes, and more straightforward engine access.

Best Bluewater sailboats under 40 feet Najad 380

One of our most triumphant yacht designs to date, the Najad 380 is not only an aesthetically pleasing vessel with well-balanced proportions but also delivers remarkable performance for ocean-going ventures. Crafted through vacuum infusion, the yacht boasts a robust and rigid hull, ensuring durability on the open seas. The interior is thoughtfully designed, featuring two sizable double-berth cabins, an expansive saloon, and a fully equipped linear galley, providing an exceptionally comfortable onboard experience.

Gemini Legacy 35

Length: 35′.

Best Bluewater sailboats under 40 feet Gemini Legacy 35

The Gemini Legacy 35 is a bluewater sailboat under 40 feet designed with a focus on stability, safety, and ease of handling. Its catamaran design, with a beam of 14 feet, provides remarkable stability both at anchor and underway. The hulls are constructed using a combination of fiberglass and high-quality materials, ensuring durability and seaworthiness.

The sail plan of the Gemini Legacy 35 features a fractional rig with a large mainsail and a self-tacking jib. The self-tacking jib simplifies sail handling, making it an excellent choice for sailors who prefer ease of operation. The rig design contributes to the catamaran’s overall performance, making it responsive and agile under various wind conditions.

The interior of the Gemini Legacy 35 is designed for comfort and practicality. The saloon, located in the bridgedeck, is bright and open, with large windows providing panoramic views. The settee and dining area are spacious, creating a welcoming and social atmosphere. The galley, positioned for easy access, is equipped with essential amenities, including a stove, sink, and refrigerator.

The catamaran typically offers a three-cabin layout, including a comfortable owner’s suite in one hull and two guest cabins in the other. The cabins feature double berths and ample storage, providing a cozy retreat for extended cruises. The Gemini Legacy 35 can comfortably accommodate a small family or a group of friends.

Length: 37″3′

Best Bluewater sailboats under 40 feet Tayana 37

The Tayana 37, originating from Taiwan, is a sailboat penned by American designer Robert Perry, initially conceptualized as a cruiser and first introduced in 1976.

Originally commissioned by Will Eckert of Flying Dutchman Yachts and C.T. Chen of Ta Yang Yacht Building, the design was later acquired by the latter, commencing production under the name CT 37. Initially labeled the Ta Chiao 37 and then the Ta Yang 37, the nomenclature eventually evolved into the well-known Tayana 37.

The interior configuration of the Tayana 37 is adaptable, catering to various rig options and individual preferences. In a typical arrangement, the vessel provides sleeping quarters for seven individuals, featuring a double “V”-berth in the bow cabin, a U-shaped settee with a collapsible dinette table, and a straight settee in the main cabin. Additionally, a pilot berth is situated above, and an aft cabin with a double berth is found on the starboard side.

The galley is strategically positioned on the port side just forward of the companionway ladder, boasting a U-shaped design equipped with a three-burner propane-fired stove, an oven, and a double sink. Opposite the galley, on the starboard side, a navigation station facilitates onboard navigation tasks. The head, located just aft of the bow cabin on the port side, includes a shower with a teak floor grating, complemented by hot and cold pressurized water. Throughout the interior, the trim and doors showcase the craftsmanship of teak.

The Tayana 37 embodies a timeless design that reflects both functionality and elegance, making it a beloved choice among sailors seeking a reliable and comfortable cruising experience.

Fountaine Pajot Lucia 40

Length: 38’6″.

Best Bluewater sailboats under 40 feet Fountaine Pajot Lucia 40

The Lucia 40, designed by Berret-Racoupeau and built by Fountaine Pajot , is a catamaran that exudes contemporary elegance. Its sleek lines, aerodynamic silhouette, and stylish curves not only catch the eye but also contribute to its impressive performance on the water. The use of cutting-edge materials ensures durability and seaworthiness, making it a reliable vessel for extended cruises.

The catamaran’s layout is optimized for comfort, offering spacious living areas both above and below deck. The main saloon is bathed in natural light, creating an inviting space for relaxation and socializing. The interior design reflects a modern and luxurious ambiance, featuring high-quality finishes and attention to detail.

Accommodations aboard the Lucia 40 include multiple cabins, each designed for maximum comfort. The cabins boast generous berths, ample storage, and well-appointed en-suite bathrooms. The vessel’s thoughtful layout ensures that every inch of space is utilized efficiently, providing a sense of openness and airiness.

Island Packet 370

Length: 37’2″.

Best Bluewater sailboats under 40 feet Island Packet 370

Designed by Bob Johnson, the founder of Island Packet Yachts , the Island Packet 370 boasts a robust construction that prioritizes durability and stability. The vessel’s design reflects a timeless elegance, featuring a moderate freeboard, a well-balanced hull, and a bowsprit that adds a touch of classic charm. The encapsulated full keel enhances stability and ensures a smooth and comfortable ride in various sea conditions.

The interior of the Island Packet 370 is a testament to thoughtful design and attention to detail. The spacious and well-appointed main saloon features a U-shaped settee and a dining table, creating an inviting social space. Rich teak finishes and high-quality craftsmanship permeate throughout, providing an atmosphere of warmth and sophistication.

Accommodations include a generously-sized owner’s cabin forward with an ensuite head, a comfortable aft cabin, and a well-designed galley equipped with essential amenities. The vessel’s layout ensures that every inch of space is utilized efficiently, creating a cozy and practical living environment for extended cruising.

Seawind 1160

Length: 38′.

Best Bluewater sailboats under 40 feet Seawind 1160

The Seawind 1160 is the perfect cruising catamaran combining the best of the 100’s of Seawind previously built and sailing around the world with new and innovative ideas to keep her light, fast and affordable. Easily sailed by a family, couple or single handed coastal cruising or offshore.

The Seawind 1160 has a spacious owners cabin in the port hull with a queen size island bed and plenty of storage. The three cabin version has an adjoining full size bathroom with separate shower and glass shower screen. The starboard hull has two double berth cabins with optional second bathroom forward and the fully open galley. You have everything you need and enough space to be very comfortable, yet the hulls remain streamline and efficient so that speed is not compromised.

With twin helm stations protected from the weather, all lines leading back to the cockpit and 360 degree visibility, they are set up to be easily handled by a crew of one or ten. The award winning trifold door system allows for indoor/outdoor living like no other boat on the market and is perfectly suited to the Australian climate.

Are you in agreement with our selection of the best 10 bluewater sailboats under 40 feet? It was truly challenging to choose, and we had to set aside models that deserved to be included in this list. If you have any suggestions, please write them in the comments.

Nautor Swan Merges With Sanlorenzo Group

Royal huisman project 410, ready to roll the hull, the first wallywind110 to debut at the monaco yacht show 2024, mishi 102 superyacht project will be unveiled at monaco yacht show 2024, live your passion, subscribe to our mailing list.

Waterborne

Home » Blog » Bluewater sailboats » The best bluewater sailboats under 40 feet (we analyzed 2,000 boats to find out)

The best bluewater sailboats under 40 feet (we analyzed 2,000 boats to find out)

By Author Fiona McGlynn

Posted on Last updated: August 17, 2023

What are the best bluewater sailboats under 40 feet?

Last year we analyzed 2,000 offshore designs to bring you a list of the most popular bluewater sailboats .

However, most people are searching for a boat in a particular size class. So, we decided to do a double-click and look at the best sailboats under 40 feet for offshore sailing.

If you’re interested in an even smaller boat, there are plenty of great options under 30 feet in our list of the best small sailboats for sailing around the world .

The characteristics that make a sailboat a bluewater sailboat are a hotly debated topic, so we wanted to use real-world data and find out what cruisers are using to cross oceans and sail around the world.

We looked at 2,000 boats that entered the Pacific Puddle Jump  (PPJ) over the last 12 years. For those of you who aren’t familiar with the PPJ, it’s a rally that crosses the Pacific ocean.  We took part in 2017 and had a ball!

Also, if you’re looking to buy one of the bluewater boats on this list, you might want to check out our post on the best places to buy used boats and how to find free or cheap boats for sale .

Just be aware that a bluewater boat isn’t necessarily offshore-ready. Our top five picks are all older boats and will undoubtedly require work.

Every cruiser we know made substantial repairs and additions before going offshore: adding watermakers , life rafts, solar panels, and more.

Also, always have a boat inspected by a professional and accredited marine surveyor before buying it or taking it offshore.

So, without further preamble, here are the best bluewater sailboats under 40 feet.

The best bluewater sailboats under 40 feet

1. the westsail 32.

Westsail 32 sailboat

The Westsail 32 is one of the most iconic bluewater cruisers. Built by the Westsail Corporation in the 1970s, this plucky, small sailboat has developed a cult following over the decades. Since 2009, 19 have set out to cross the Pacific in the PPJ rallies.

The Westsail 32 is known for its sturdy construction, seaworthiness, and classic looks. In fact, it set the standard for what a real bluewater cruiser should look like. In 1973, the Westsail 32 was featured in Time magazine and inspired many Americans to go cruising.

Though popular, this boat has earned the unenviable nickname “ Wetsnail 32″, a reference to its poor ability to windward and sluggish performance. But Westsail 32 owners don’t care that they won’t be winning any races.

What the boat lacks in speed it makes up for in classic looks and excellent offshore cruising characteristics. Many owners have crossed oceans and circumnavigated the globe in their Westsail 32s.

LOA32.00 ft / 9.75 m
First built1971
BuilderWestsail (USA)
DesignerW. Crealock / W. Atkin
Hull typeLong keel, trans. hung rudder
Rig typeCutter
Displacement19,500 lb / 8,845 kg

2. Tayana 37

Tayana 37 sailboat

The Tayana 37 is a wildly popular Bob Perry design. It first rolled off the production line in 1976 and there are now several hundred of them sailing the world’s oceans.

Above the waterline, the Tayana 37 boasts beautiful traditional lines. However, Perry wanted to avoid the unenviable (read: sluggish) performance characteristics, associated with double-enders.

So, he designed the Tayana 37 with a cut-away long keel and moderate displacement, maintaining the classic look, while achieving reasonable performance.

The Tayana 37 has a devoted following of offshore enthusiasts. Since 2009, 12 Tayana 37s have set out to cross the Pacific in the PPJ rallies.

Read more about the Tayana 37 in this Practical Sailor review .

LOA36.67 ft / 11.18 m
First built1976
BuilderTa Yang (TWN)
DesignerR. Perry
Hull typeLong keel
Rig typeCutter
Displacement22,500 lb / 10,206 kg
 

3. Hans Christian 38T

Black and white photo of Hans Christian 38T Sailboat

The Hans Christian 38T is a full-keeled, heavy displacement bluewater boat with a long bowsprit and a clipper bow, giving it a distinctive appearance. It was first introduced in 1976 and was produced until the early 1990s.

If you hadn’t already guessed, the “T” in the name stands for “Traditional”. Like many boats on this list, it takes a cue from Crealock’s famous Westsail 32 which sparked a craze in the 1970s and 80s for Scandinavian-style doubled-enders.

It’s gained a reputation as a capable and seaworthy cruising yacht. Many owners have crossed oceans and completed circumnavigations in Hans Christian 38Ts.

By our count, eight Hans Christian 38Ts have participated in Pacific Puddle Jump rallies over the last 12 years.

LOA37.92 ft / 11.56 m
First built1976
BuilderAnderson Yachts Ltd. (TAIWAN)
DesignerHarwood Ives
Hull typeLong keel
Rig typeCutter
Displacement26,500 lb / 12,020 kg
 

4. Island Packet 380

Drawing of Island Packet 380 sailboat

I’ve always considered Island Packets the Rolls-Royce of the bluewater boat world. Their distinctive cream-colored topsides make them easy to spot and their robust bluewater construction makes them the envy of many far-flung anchorages.

Designed by Bob Johnson and built by Island Packet Yachts in Florida, the Island Packet 380 was first introduced in 1998. 169 were built before 2004, over which time it gained a reputation as a capable and comfortable offshore cruiser.

Having been built in the ’90s and early 2000s, this is a relatively newer boat. In many ways, it offers the best of both worlds, a classic-looking boat with all the modern cruising conveniences.

The Island Packet 380 design prioritizes safety and stability. It also has several offshore features including standard twin bow rollers, a divided anchor locker, and ample storage for cruising gear.

Life below deck is comfortable too. With a 13-foot (4 meter) beam there’s plenty of room for liveaboard amenities.

The Island Packet 380 is a popular choice for long-distance cruising and offshore passages. Since 2009, six Island Packet 380s have set out to cross the Pacific in PPJ rallies.

Read more about the Island Packet 380 in this review by Yachting Monthly .

LOA39.58 ft / 12.06 m
First built1998
BuilderIsland Packet Yachts (USA)
DesignerBob Johnson
Hull typeLong keel
Rig typeCutter
Displacement21,000 lb / 9,525 kg
 

5. Ingrid 38

Drawing of Ingrid 38 sailboat

The Ingrid 38 is a double-ended sailboat that was originally designed for wood construction in 1938.

In 1971, Bluewater Boat Co. began building a fiberglass version. The design proved hugely popular and more than 140 were built.

With a full keep and heavy displacement, the Ingrid 38 epitomizes the traditional bluewater cruiser. Yet, it remains a well-loved design today. Since 2009, six Ingrid 38s have set out to cross the Pacific in PPJ rallies.

LOA38.00 ft / 11.58 m
First built1938
BuilderBluewater Boat Company (USA)
DesignerWilliam Atkin
Hull typeLong Keel
Rig typeCutter
Displacement26,000 lb / 11,793 kg
 

Description

Fiona McGlynn

Fiona McGlynn is an award-winning boating writer who created Waterborne as a place to learn about living aboard and traveling the world by sailboat. She has written for boating magazines including BoatUS, SAIL, Cruising World, and Good Old Boat. She’s also a contributing editor at Good Old Boat and BoatUS Magazine. In 2017, Fiona and her husband completed a 3-year, 13,000-mile voyage from Vancouver to Mexico to Australia on their 35-foot sailboat.

Terms and Conditions - Privacy Policy

    Beam:  18'    Draft:  11'
    Beam:  11'    Draft:  6'
    Draft:  6'
    Beam:  8'    Draft:  2'

45 foot bluewater sailboat

© 2001-2024 ./)   . . ./)   . .

45 foot bluewater sailboat

BLUEWATER SAILING YACHTS QUALITY CRUISING SAILBOATS FROM THE WORLD’S TOP BUILDERS.

BLUEWATER CRUISING SAILBOATS FOR SALE

45 foot bluewater sailboat

2017 Passport 545 CC

Passport Yachts have long been recognized as “the standard of excellence” for bluewater cruising sailboats. Continued refinements under the direction of Thom Wagner, state-of-the-art hull layup, selection of some of the best marine hardware and systems available, and listening to their buyers, have all contributed to the Passport Vista Series’ tremendous success. The Passport 545 CC was awarded Cruising World’s prestigious “Boat of the Year” award in 2012. “ASA”, a 2017 Passport 545 CC is a prime example of why the Vista Series has remained so popular over the years. The ease of sailing her with the solent rig and in-mast furling has made her the “go-to choice” for sailing couples. With her large and roomy interior, there is adequate room for family or friends. You will be challenged to find the quality of the interior woodwork and finishes (found aboard the Passport 545) in much more expensive yachts.

45 foot bluewater sailboat

2019 Outbound 56

Specifying and building Outbound 56 BAREFOOT was a labour of love for her owners. They wanted to build the best quality and most practical cruising yacht that they could sail easily, as a couple, and that would carry them and their young children in safety and comfort, even to remote areas. The yacht is a very highly specified and much improved version of the well-known Hylas 56. Even after delivery the owner continued to improve and upgrade the yacht – including changing out the main engine. No cost has been spared to produce this wonderful yacht. With her hydraulic in-mast furling main, hydraulic furler to both of the headstays, electric furling gennaker, electric sheet winches - all controlled at the cockpit – she may be sailed single-handed (and has been). The interior provides a delightful aft “stateroom”, a double cabin forward and a versatile third cabin that may be used as a single or double and serves as a stowage area and workbench.

45 foot bluewater sailboat

1988 Sparkman & Stephens Custom 50

The Stephen Custom 50 was conceived by the renowned yacht designers Sparkman & Stephens who have designed and built some of the worlds leading cruising and racing sailboats. They did not miss the mark with this 1988 classy cruiser. This stable yacht is designed and optimized for long term cruising and is a true blue-water sailboat. A solid glass hull and full skeg make Brizo a smooth ride even in rough seaways and give assurance. Built at the Queen Long yard in Taiwan, a precursor to the fabled Hylas yachts, her build quality is unquestioned. The quality craftsmanship and fine joinery is apparent throughout the interior of this well-conceived design. A deck saloon and a three-cabin layout make this yacht perfect for cruising couples or families. If you are seeking a boat that can carry you far and wide with speed, safety, and comfort, Brizo is a must see.

All Bluewater Cruising Sailboats For Sale

  • Little Harbor
  • Robert Perry
  • Sparkman & Stephens

45 foot bluewater sailboat

2020 Outbound 56

45 foot bluewater sailboat

2009 Outbound 46

45 foot bluewater sailboat

2009 Outbound 44

45 foot bluewater sailboat

1999 Passport Royal Passport 43

45 foot bluewater sailboat

1993 Robert Perry Custom 63

45 foot bluewater sailboat

1989 Windship 60 Cutter

45 foot bluewater sailboat

1989 Little Harbor 54

Featured bluewater sailboat brands.

45 foot bluewater sailboat

HYLAS COLLECTION

The premier collection of pre-owned Hylas bluewater sailing yachts that are currently available on the market. Collection Yacht brokers have sold more Hylas sailboats in the last decade than all other yacht brokerages combined.

View Hylas Collection

45 foot bluewater sailboat

OYSTER COLLECTION

Oyster is one of the world’s top bluewater cruising sailboat brands. Built in the UK, Oysters are finely crafted seaworthy yachts that capable of ocean passages and circumnavigation, with their most popular models being in the 50-70ft range. The Oyster Collection features current Oyster yachts for sale as well as videos, reviews, and guides.

View Oyster Collection

45 foot bluewater sailboat

PASSPORT COLLECTION

Built to meet the style and taste of the American sailing market, Passport yachts are admired worldwide for their hand-crafted quality, proven passage making abilities, and well-thought out designs. While the award winning Passport 545 is perhaps the most popular model, the entire line is built to the same standards and respected for its sailing performance, fine interior woodwork, and beautiful detailing inside and out.

View Passport Collection

Bluewater Cruising Sailboat Reviews, Guides, & News

Passport 545 Aft Cockpit Walkthrough Video

Passport yachts gives us a closer look at the interior and exterior of the Passport 545 Aft Cockpit sailboat.

Promo Video of the All New Oyster 565

A great promo video that Oyster has released highlighting features of the all new Oyster 565.

45 foot bluewater sailboat

Oyster 725 Review

The 725 was built, as many Oysters are, to sail anywhere her owners wish to go. She is the first boat in the range to have exceptional and dedicated crew quarters.

45 foot bluewater sailboat

Oyster 625 Review

The Oyster 625 is a powerful sailboat that can be handled by an experienced couple but also has ample space for a captain and crew if that is the desired cruising mode.

45 foot bluewater sailboat

OYSTER YACHT SALES EXPERTS

Collection Yachts, based in the yachting capital of the world, Fort Lauderdale, is proud to represent buyers and sellers of Oyster Yachts. Traveling with clients across the globe to find the best Oyster Yacht has resulted in long lasting relationships and many sales. Like Oyster, Collection Yachts provides top quality service for as long as a client owns their Oyster.

Previously Sold Models

45 foot bluewater sailboat

DISCOVER THE DIFFERENCE

Outbound feature.

FEATURED BRAND

Boat Search

Yacht search looking for a specific boat.

We Can Help - At Collection Yachts, each of our yacht brokers specialize in specific segments of the market and have in-depth knowledge of market pricing and availabilty. Tell us what you are looking for and we can share all possible options that meet your criteria, as well as notify you as soon as new listings become available.

Request More Info

Send a message for more information about this yacht.

954-951-9500

  • Skip to content

Knowledge for Sailors

45′ Bluewater Sailboat Total Cost of Ownership: $276,814.11

Cruising Sailboat Costs / July 28, 2022 by TJ / Leave a Comment

I’ve tracked every dollar spent owning my Bristol 45.5 for the first three years, including the purchase price and first off season refit . I know what you’re looking for, I’ve clicked on enough articles with titles like this; so without further ado here are the numbers:

45 foot bluewater sailboat

I’ve had many of my boat owning peers tell me I shouldn’t track this all. Seeing $276,814.11 in black and white I understand why.

I’ve said it before but I’ll say it again: I did not set out to find the best boat for a certain budget nor was minimizing cost of ownership a top priority. This is all very specific to my circumstances , I know I could have spent less; these 3 years were also my first three years of boat ownership so I was learning how I might have saved money as I accumulated this data. I’m just publishing this because in 2018 when I was looking at what boat ownership would actually cost there were few articles like this out there so I’m just adding to the collective wisdom of the internet.

2019, the year I chose a Bristol 45.5 , bought her ($77,682.80) and had her 40 year refit done ($93,346.01) was without a doubt the most expensive year ($188,906.60). 2020 I tried to keep it lower key ($39,748.65) and in 2021 I tackled a few more projects coming in at $57,759.48.

Goods vs. Labor vs. Carrying Costs and Improvements

I’ve found these categories useful for breaking down costs. Let me explain what I mean when I use them and how they help me:

  • Goods: By goods I mean “physical products” in the economic sense. Some expensive examples of goods are Counterpoint herself, my new genoa, the YDNR-02 that connects my sea talk network to NMEA 2000, to the fire extinguishers down to the mousetraps I needed last season to banish my rodent nemesis once and for all! Boat goods are largely binary in the sense that if I didn’t buy a new thru-hull transducer I would have to do without boat speed; if I didn’t buy the new fire extinguishers I wouldn’t have had them and would have been cited by the coast guard when they inspected me off the coast of Maine in 2020.
  • Labor: In the case of my boat expenses labor is largely summed up from the invoices for the work I’ve had done professionally. Largely I keep track of this to make sure I’m making good time vs money decisions during the course of my boat ownership.
  • Carrying Costs: These are the costs related to owning any 45′ sailboat; even if nothing ever broke or needed updating I’d still need a place to keep Counterpoint during the sailing season and the winter. She’d need insurance. Since I no longer have a home in New England I keep a storage unit for storing boat bits in the winter. And so on.
  • Goods + Labor + Carrying Costs = Total Costs – Every boat cost is categorized as either goods, labor or carrying cost.
  • Improvements: Improvements are a subset of goods and labor that I categorize as upgrades I’ve decided to make in S/V Counterpoint; improvements as opposed to maintenance related to wear and tear or the boat’s age and separate from consumables such as fuel. Where the fire extinguishers are goods that Counterpoint needed the N2k network bits for the N2k network I’ve slowly been upgrading to are improvements. Mousetraps are just goods but the new lazy jacks are definitely improvements. Some goods and labor are partially improvements: Counterpoint needed a new headsail but she didn’t need a top of the line cruising genoa but I knew getting one would improve her sailing performance so much I decided to splurge and called 50% of the cost an improvement.

Catalina 42?

The last bit I feel like I need to explain is the Catalina 42 comparison that I track. The formula is simple:

$110,000 + Improvements + Carrying Costs = Catalina 42 But why $110k? Because when I decided to buy a Bristol 45.5 the other option I was considering was purchasing a Catalina 42 as a “Starter Boat” and at the time I figured I could get a similarly equipped C42 for about $110k. Having gone through a 93k refit I like to have an idea how different my first 3 years of boat ownership would have been had I made a different choice.

My Top 10 45′ Sailboat Expenses

$93,346.012019
$77,682.802019
$19,129.942021Replace standing rigging, mast wiring and electronics
$18,123.622020-21
$13,320.022020-21
$10,967.962021Bottom soda blasted to gelcoat, epoxy barrier coat & paint
$10,424.202020North Sails Genoa
$5,599.802019-21
$4,483.932019-21
$4,405.832021Complete Service Vacuflush Head

The top 10 expenses add up to $257,484.11 which accounts for 93% of the dollars I’ve spent on my Bristol 45.5 during my first 3 years of boat ownership. The #1 expense being more than 20 times the #10 expense. If you’re anywhere in my ballpark when it comes to boat needs and budget these and you want to save money entirely eliminating ALL any other of my other boat expenses would only save you 7% so let me teach you about these 10 expenses.

Since I’ve already written at length about the top two expenses (62%) I’ll discuss the remaining 8 in this article that make up 31% ($86,455.30) of the money I’ve spent during my first 3 years of boat ownership.

Dockage, Winter Storage, Storage Unit & Hauling: $35,927.57 (13%)

Keeping a boat in New England and living aboard at a marina in the summer is expensive.

COVID-19 turned my life upside down. I’ve been full time remote worker for a while now and I was planning on spending the summers living on land in New England with my girlfriend; living aboard S/V Counterpoint somewhere south during the winter. COVID-19 presented my girlfriend with the opportunity to move to Southwest Florida and she jumped at the chance. So now I live aboard in New England in the summer and live in Florida in the winter.

If I had known I would be living aboard in the north and living on land in the south I might have bought a different boat. I definitely would have set things up differently.

While I’m not willing to sacrifice a slip at a Marina of my choosing during my summer living aboard I am considering other ways to save on these costs:

  • Joining a yacht club that has less expensive winter storage and shrink wrapping
  • Keeping an inexpensive vehicle in New England during the summer so I don’t have to rent a car to shuffle gear at the start and end of the season
  • Hauling the extra boat stuff down to Florida for the winter or just getting rid of it
  • Living on the hook during June, July and/or August to save on marina costs
  • Storing much further south where it’s less expensive and shrink wrapping is unnecessary

But if you have other ideas please share in the comments or on the contact form !

Bottom Job and New Genoa: $21,392.16 (8%)

If I wanted to save this $21k I would simply have to be willing to sail slower; basically to have a tank that sails less well than Counterpoint currently does.

All the professionals who saw the state of Counterpoint’s bottom said that the bottom needed to be redone. By then end of 2021 the old genoa was literally shedding parts of itself every time she tacked.

Still, in spite of the rough bottom and the old genoa I had one of my best sails ever during on a light air overnighter from Boston to Provincetown. So neither of these big expenditures was entirely necessary (the jib needed a replacement, but I didn’t need an awesome replacement).

But I was very happy with both of these improvements during 2021. I love the challenge of light air sailing and with the smooth bottom and new headsail I really enjoyed singlehanding S/V Counterpoint around Narragansett Bay in under 5 knots of breeze. My sailing friends who sailed pre and post improvements also noticed the difference in light air.

Standing Rigging Replacement: $19,129.94 (7%)

This project was actually an expense of opportunity. I could have skipped having the mast unstepped and sailed on the original 1982 rigging for a few more years. It probably would have been fine until I actually headed further afield and in 2021 when I had the work done I knew I’d be coastal cruising for at least the next few years.

But, the rigger who built the original rigging for Bristol 45.5s in the 1980s happened to be working in the marina I was staying at in 2021. As I was considering converting Counterpoint to a cutter rig I figured this rigger was the right guy to work with on the project.

His name is Dennis and he works at (and perhaps owns?) Bay Sailing Equipment in Fall River, MA.

I’m really glad I decided to work with Dennis; he spoke with an engineer from the company who built the mast and determined that a cutter rig would not be structurally sound on Counterpoint after measuring the mast. The other quotes for the cutter stay that I had received didn’t include any budget for a structural engineer so that could have been a big problem down the road.

So I tabled the dual headsail for the time being, had the standing rigging replaced and used the extra budget to have all the wiring within and electrical components on the mast replaced.

Insurance: $5,599.80 (2%)

The rule of thumb for yacht insurance is 2% of hull value per year. I’m a little bit under that for 3 years of insurance with an insured hull value of $100,000 ($2,000/year > $1,866.60/year).

I am working with a new insurance agent this year and I think I’ll be able to get some considerable insurance savings in 2022 and I’ll post in the comments if I do.

Head Servicing: $4,405.83 (1.6%)

I could certainly have saved money by doing this myself; the invoice was 85% ($3,762.79) labor. If I would have just replaced the hoses myself I probably could have saved $2.5k of that.

Or for the same amount I could have replaced the Vacu-Flush with an inexpensive easier to service manual head. But, hear me out:

When I bought S/V Counterpoint I counted the VacuFlush as a negative; I had used fresh water heads and they all consumed too much water. But all of my boat guests loved the VacuFlush – it’s a fresh water head which has less of that outhouse smell and it’s easy to flush. The VacuFlush uses much less water than other freshwater heads which means the holding tank fills up much more slowly. When the aft manual head went down I used the VacuFlush exclusively for a season and it never had any kind of outhouse smell so now I am also a fan.

But the hoses were old and they had a funny plastic-ey smell and my most important boat guest, my girlfriend, was quite sensitive to it. So replacing all the hoses made it to the top of my list.

The plumber showed up on a Monday and was done by Thursday. He managed to keep smells to a minimum which was great because I was living and working aboard at the time. (He was also a really nice guy.) The expertise to do this job while hardly making a mess was worth it to me. Other than having to use the aft head I was hardly inconvenienced at all!

The Best Way to (use this article to) Save!

I never really intended to second guess all of the work that I paid to have done in these articles but here we are. What I intended to do was to provide information on how much refit projects cost and I’ve done so in this article and in the big article on my refit .

If you’re in the market for a 45 ish foot boat the best thing you can do is use these articles to keep track of which of the projects you’re looking at down the road are big expensive projects. Every boat buying article talks about blisters but nobody mentions sodablasting and epoxy barrier coating a rough bottom might cost $10k; that new fuel tanks in the bilges could cost $50k or that a new suite of sails will run you at least $10k. If you’re looking at two similar boats, one that had the standing rigging replaced last year you know that is a $10-15k value ($5k for the wires and electronics) and can start evaluating your 3 year total costs accordingly. You know that sails new within the last 5 years is a $10k value (at least!).

What you don’t see in my list of top 10 expenses is the work that I did myself. Replacing the windlass controls, upgrading the electronics, finding a second hand life raft on the cheap and so much more. Fortunately for me I was able to do these projects myself and save some money; which is unfortunate for you dear reader because I haven’t been owned boats enough to have any idea how much those projects would have cost to have done professionally.

I can only provide you the data I have.

Personal Takeaways

When I break things down and write about them I am learning as well. My takeaways after capturing all this data are as follows:

  • I am pleased to see marina fees and performance improvements are the top two expenditures after refit and initial purchase; while I’d like to save money on these expenses where possible I am pleased that I’m able to spend my “boat money” on living where I want to live and improving S/V Counterpoint in ways that help me enjoy sailing her more!
  • I am glad I over-estimated when I was budgeting for boat ownership. I had budgeted $200k for the first year (purchase and refit) and $75k the few years thereafter to keep improving things as I more about how I want my boat setup for the long haul.
  • I should not have been so cavalier as I was about knowing I’d need a new genoa the first few years of owning Counterpoint
  • I overpaid for my standing rigging. But I’m glad I didn’t save money on new standing rigging with an inner forestay that could have lead to a dismasting
  • Sitting aboard in front of my laptop while the head was being serviced was surreal; I was earning my salary and the plumber was costing me money at the same time. I was definitely thinking “I would MUCH rather exchange this money than exchange places”

S/V Counterpoint Article Series

If you care to read more about my journey buying, owning and cruising Counterpoint checkout the additional articles below:

  • How I chose my Bluewater Sailboat
  • Bluewater Sailboat Purchase Process
  • Fuel Tank and Water Tank Replacement Project
  • My Bristol 45.5’s 40 Year Refit
  • 45’ Blue Water Boat Cost of Ownership (this article)
  • S/V Counterpoint: Bluewater Sailboat Video Tour

Share this:

  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Pocket (Opens in new window)
  • Click to print (Opens in new window)

Reader Interactions

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

Learn More About

Visit our Popular Forums

  • Monohull Sailboats
  • Multihull Sailboats
  • Powered Boats
  • General Sailing
  • Antares Yachts
  • Fountaine Pajot
  • Lagoon Catamarans

Cruising Business

  • Boat Classifieds
  • General Classifieds
  • Crew Positions
  • Commercial Posts
  • Vendor Spotlight

Life Aboard a Boat

  • Provisioning: Food & Drink
  • Families, Kids, & Pets Afloat
  • Recreation, Entertainment, & Fun
  • Boat Ownership & Making a Living
  • Liveaboard's Forum

Seamanship, Navigation & Boat Handling

  • Seamanship & Boat Handling
  • Training, Licensing, & Certification
  • Health, Safety, & Related Gear
  • Rules of the Road, Regulations, & Red Tape

Engineering & Systems

  • Const. / Maint. / Refit
  • Product / Service Reviews
  • Electronics: Comms / AV
  • Electrical: Batts / Gen / Solar
  • Lithium Power Systems
  • Engines & Propulsion
  • Propellers & Drive Systems
  • Plumbing / Fixtures
  • Deck Hdw: Rigging / Sails
  • Aux. Equipment & Dinghy
  • Anchoring & Mooring

Photo Categories

  • Member Galleries
  • Life Onboard
  • Sailing in the Wind
  • Power Boats
  • Cruising Destinations
  • Maint. & Boat Building
  • Marine Life
  • Scuba Diving & Divers
  • General Photos

Recent Photos

45 foot bluewater sailboat

Listing Categories

  • African Cats
  • view more »
  • Crew Wanted
  • Crew Available
  • Enhance Your Account
  • Meet the Mods
  • Meet the Advisors
  • Signup for The Daily Cruiser Email
  > >

Cruiser Wiki

 
Please support our sponsors and let them know you heard about their products on Cruisers Forums.
15-11-2019, 08:20  
Boat: Hardin 45 Voyager Alice B., Gig Harbor 10, Orca 7 1/2 sloop, 16' sea kayak
15-11-2019, 09:33  
dreamboat
15-11-2019, 11:14  
Boat: 45ft Ketch
?
Southern Ocean with 60knots and 40ft waves ? (or do you call that "greenwater.")
15-11-2019, 13:05  
Boat: Serendipity 43
.

Mentioned here, which I agree with, are
Rustler 42 fin skeg
44 fin skeg
44 fin skeg
Lafitte 44 fin skeg
Outbound 44/46 fin spade
Corbin 39 fin skeg
Valiant 40/42 fin skeg
40/44 fin skeg
Norseman 447 fin skeg
Taswell 43 fin skeg
40 fin skeg
Saga 43 fin spade.

Notice that they are all fin , with spade or skeg rudders. Some sloops, some cutters.

Others, fewer of you, have mentioned boats such as
420
Westsail 43full

There are many more of these.

Does the OP want a State of the Art ? A new model? Such as

Sun Odyssey 440 Fin, Twin rudders
46.1 Fin twin spade rudders
Vision 42 fin spade
Boreal 44 daggerboards twin rudders

And there are SO MANY choices,
Any Hallberg Rassey
Any Hinkley
Any
Any late (or early) model or
Possibly a or

, a strong one, reasonably fast, , and converted it. A Doug IOR Serendipity 43. It has been excellent: comfortable, , easy to sail, and fun. Everything bad you have heard about this kind of boat is just dead wrong. I would do the same now, and in fact I have fanaticized about converting a TP52
15-11-2019, 19:50  
Boat: Hans Christian 43
15-11-2019, 21:19  
Boat: 1966 Spencer 42'
Built like an anvil, like a dream!

She is fast and nimble.

I handed her close to 700 hours last year, finally installed an auto pilot in August.

If you can find one, hard to go wrong with a Spencer!
15-11-2019, 22:34  
Boat: Hallberg-Rassy 40
capable yacht, preferably under 20 years old. Looked in detail at:
Valiant 40-42
400-420
Passport 40-41
Van De Stadt 40
Moody 425
40/44
variety of Hallberg-Rassy yachts.

Ended up being a pretty simple choice; this Hallberg-Rassy 40 met or exceeded just about all of the criteria.

Ilenart  
15-11-2019, 22:47  
Boat: Westerly 43
15-11-2019, 23:43  
Boat: Hallberg-Rassy 40
boats that still exhibit excellent performance... and Nordic 40/44 Sloops come to mind.
16-11-2019, 10:06  
16-11-2019, 10:50  
Boat: Building a Max Cruise 44 hybrid electric cat
construction
Massive
Massive aft with nice 270 degree view
Huge aft to store
ULDB
Deep bulbed keel
ballast
designed max heel angle of 11 degrees

Neg:
Only a few built
About 100k too rich for my buget - Youtube Vlog -
17-11-2019, 05:41  
capable yacht in its size range. I am sure the 42 is just as nice.
17-11-2019, 05:44  
Built like an anvil, like a dream! .........................
17-11-2019, 05:56  
Boat: Tartan 40
video I think many boats would be super fun on that type of which appeared to have minimal windward .
17-11-2019, 06:21  
Boat: 1980 Pacific International Marine 41.5
crossings on mine yet, but it has similar lines to a swan 42.

That being said a swan would be on my list as well
 
, , ,
Thread Tools
Rate This Thread
:
Posting Rules
post new threads post replies post attachments edit your posts is are code is are are are
Similar Threads
Thread Thread Starter Forum Replies Last Post
[SOLD] lazystar Boats For Sale and Wanted 6 14-06-2018 21:36
Ronaldsons General Sailing Forum 32 27-03-2017 09:30
chowdan Monohull Sailboats 30 09-12-2016 19:16
orsailor Multihull Sailboats 26 13-11-2012 13:50
No Threads to Display.
- - - - - - -

Privacy Guaranteed - your email is never shared with anyone, opt out any time.

45 foot bluewater sailboat

Choose the RM1380 and experience elegance at its best

Rm 1380: our 45-foot / 14m sailboat, the bluewater sailing yacht you’ve been dreaming of.

For the past 30 years, Marc Lombard Design team and the RM Yachts engineering team have been conceiving legendary and head-turning sailing yachts, all contributing to the French shipyard’s reputation. The RM1380 is, somehow, the culmination of our efforts, and probably our most remarkable achievement.

A 45-foot sailboat made of plywood-epoxy, the RM1380 is exceptionally elegant and racy, and capable of long cruises, such as a circum-navigation or a transatlantic ocean crossing in the best conditions of speed, safety, and comfort.

« Here is nothing but tidiness, beauty, luxury, calm and sensuousness » (Charles Beaudelaire)

“GENERAL MANAGER OF THIS SHIPYARD, AND ON BEHALF OF MY TEAM, I’M PROUD TO INTRODUCE YOU TO THE RM1380”

– Martin Lepoutre

From the moment you pass the companion way and enter the RM1380, you will perceive the difference with any of your previous references. A spontaneous well-being, a rare feeling of space, and loads of natural light.

Walk in the saloon, and, progressively, you’ll see that no detail has been left apart for the interior of our 45-foot sailing yacht. The cosy sofa with its méridienne to maximise your comfort, the square island bed that looks like you’re at home, the U-shape galley offering space and functionality, the elegant and accessible chart table, etc.

Voilier 45 pieds RM1380

Technical specifications

Numbers and figures speak for themselves: the RM1380 is a fast cruiser, capable of sailing far and even further, in the best conditions.

Marc Lombard Design Group

Edouard Delamare Deboutteville

hull length

Twin keel draft, lifting keel draft.

1,45 / 3,35M

LIGHT DISPLACEMENT

Engine in board sail drive.

Volvo Penta 60 CV (75CV en option)

FUEL CAPACITY

150L (300L en option)

WATER CAPACITY

270L (400L en option)

HOLDING TANK CAPACITY

Furling genoa, asymmetric spinnaker.

You will be surprised by her beautiful silhouette, worked out in every detail. Pure, elegant lines, feeling of power and performance, uninterrupted roof lines, large and inclined bulwarks: the RM1380 has her own character, and shows it from first sight.

Inspired by offshore racing yachts with her large-beamed hull, her raised bow, her massive sail plan, this high-performance monohull of almost 14 meters overpasses the RM1180, awarded yacht of the year in 2019, and is even more irresistible.

Have a look inside, and this elegance will continue, thanks to the help of Piaton Yacht Design. We have been looking after everything which could contribute to the eye’s pleasure, to comfort, to well-being aboard. The outcome is simply amazing!

Keep in Touch' Restons en contact

We will send you RM Yachts News (Only) to make sure you are up to date. Recevez (seulement) nos infos, pour être sûrs de ne rien rater !

  • FR - Français
  • EN - English
  • Types of Sailboats
  • Parts of a Sailboat
  • Cruising Boats
  • Small Sailboats
  • Design Basics
  • Sailboats under 30'
  • Sailboats 30'-35
  • Sailboats 35'-40'
  • Sailboats 40'-45'
  • Sailboats 45'-50'
  • Sailboats 50'-55'
  • Sailboats over 55'
  • Masts & Spars
  • Knots, Bends & Hitches
  • The 12v Energy Equation
  • Electronics & Instrumentation
  • Build Your Own Boat
  • Buying a Used Boat
  • Choosing Accessories
  • Living on a Boat
  • Cruising Offshore
  • Sailing in the Caribbean
  • Anchoring Skills
  • Sailing Authors & Their Writings
  • Mary's Journal
  • Nautical Terms
  • Cruising Sailboats for Sale
  • List your Boat for Sale Here!
  • Used Sailing Equipment for Sale
  • Sell Your Unwanted Gear
  • Sailing eBooks: Download them here!
  • Your Sailboats
  • Your Sailing Stories
  • Your Fishing Stories
  • Advertising
  • What's New?
  • Chartering a Sailboat
  • Cruising Yachts 45' to 50'

Popular Cruising Yachts from 45 to 50 Feet Long Overall Their Physical Properties & Key Performance Indicators

Welcome to this ever-growing gallery of some of the most popular cruising yachts between 45 and 50 feet (13.7m to 15.2m) long overall.

Cruising Yachts featured on this page...




































































Offshore cruising boats of this length are probably the maximum size that most cruising couples can comfortably handle without taking on additional crew. 

Even so, it's likely that powered sail handling devices - sheet and halyard winches, electric or hydraulic furling gears etc - will be necessary, all of which adds to the cost and complexity of the boat.

Gulfstar Hirsch 45

Gulfstar Hirsch 45

Atlantic 49

Atlantic 49 sailboat

Allures 45.9

Allures 45.9 sailboat

Jeanneau International 50

Jeanneau International 50

Kelly Peterson 46

Kelly Peterson 46 sailboat at anchor

Moody 45 Classic

A Moody 45 Classic sailboat under sail

Wauquiez Pilot Saloon 48-2

A Wauquiez Pilot Saloon 48-2 sailboat preparing to weigh anchor

Vagabond 47

A Vagabond 47 sailboat at anchor

Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 45.2

A Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 45.2 at anchor

Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 45

A Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 45 sailboat

Hallberg-Rassy 49

A Hallberg-Rassy 49 sailboat at anchor

Hallberg-Rassy 48

A Hallberg-Rassy 48 at anchor in Chatham Bay, Union Island in the West Indies

Grande Soleil 46

A Grande Soleil 46 sailboat at anchor

Dufour Classic 45

A Dufour Classic 45 sailboat prepares to anchor

Dufour 460 Grand Large

A Dufour 460 Grand Large sailboat at anchor

Beneteau Oceanis 48

A Beneteau Oceanis 48 on a mooring ball

Beneteau 46

Beneteau 46 at anchor

Bavaria 50 Cruiser

Bavaria 50 Cruiser at anchor

Bavaria 46 Cruiser

'Namaste', a Bavaria 46 Cruiser at anchor in Tyrell Bay, Carriacou, West indies

The bowsprit and dinghy davits of the attractive Oceanic 46 are likely to be included in the chargeable length overall in marinas and boatyards.

'Dandelion', an Oceanic 46 cutter rigged sailboat

Beneteau Oceanis 50

A Beneteau Oceanis 50 sailboat

Hull Type:  Fin keel & spade rudder

Hull Material:  GRP (Fibreglass)

Length Overall:  49'6" (15.1m)

Waterline Length:  43'8" (13.3m)

Beam:  14'9" (4.5m)

Draft:  6'7" (1.7m)

Rig Type:  Fractional Sloop

Displacement:  27,454lb (12,453kg)

Designer:  Berret Racoupeau

Builder:  Beneteau (France)

Year First Built:  2010

'Capers' a Hylas 46 sailboat on a mooring at Portsmouth, Dominica, West Indies

The plumb bow and stern on this sleek Dufour 520 maximise her waterline length and hence her theoretical hull speed, but do nothing to help her Comfort Ratio .

Dufour 520 Grand Large at anchor in Chatham Bay, Union Island, West Indies

Bowman 46 Corsair

A Bowman 46 Corsair Yawl

Nicholson 476

A Nicholson 476 sailboat

Stephens Custom 47

'Mehalah', a Stephens Custom 47 cutter

Hallberg-Rassy 46

'Lykke', a Hallberg Rassy 46 moored in Les Saintes, Guadeloupe

Amel Santorin 46

45 foot bluewater sailboat

Jeanneau Sun Kiss 47

'More Mischief', a Jeanneau Sun Kiss 47 Cruising Yacht

Outbound 46

The Outbound 46 differs from the Outbound 44 in that it has an extended boarding platform.

'Kinetic', an Outbound 46 sailboat, sports a hard dodger and a Solent Rig.

Wauquiez 48

The twin headsail rig on this Wauquiez 48 is known as a 'Solent Rig'. Clearly it differs form a cutter rig, but which is the better choice for cruising ?

'Pipistrelle', a Wauquiez 48 Pilot House Cruising Yacht at anchor in Deep Bay, Antigua, West Indies.

The J/46 is a light displacement performance cruising yacht, but would the speed/comfort compromise be acceptable to you?

'Breezing Up', a J46 light displacement sailboat at anchor in Five Islands Bay, Antigua, West Indies

Aerodyne 47

'Pandora', a Aerodyne 47 high-performance cruising yacht at anchor off Deshaies, Guadeloupe, French West Indies

Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 49

'Laurie N', a Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 49 prepares to pick up a mooring in Prince Rupert Bay, Dominica, West Indies

Westerly Ocean 49

'Laridae', a Westerly 49 at anchor off Fort de France in Martinique

Jeanneau 'Sun Odyssey' 47

Jeanneau 'Sun Odyssey' 47 at anchor in Grande Anse D'Arlet, Martinique, French West Indies

Our Gallery of Popular Cruising Sailboats...

Sadler 25 sailboat

Nicholson 48

'Capercaillie', a Nicholson 48 Ketch Sailboat

Cabo Rico 45

A Cabo Rico 45 at anchor in Cane Garden Bay, Tortola in the BVIs

Beneteau Oceanis 473

A Beneteau Oceanis 473 sailboat

Gulfstar Sailmaster 47

Hinckley 48.

Bill Trip designed great looking cruising yachts - and this Hinckley 48 is no exception...

Next:  Cruising yachts from 50-55ft LOA

Recent Articles

RSS

Apla 42 Sailboat Specs & Key Performance Indicators

Aug 30, 24 02:51 AM

Ovni 445 Sailboat Specs & Key Performance Indicators

Aug 29, 24 03:44 AM

Catalina 34 Sailboat Specs & Key Performance Indicators

Aug 29, 24 12:14 AM

Here's where to:

  • Find  Used Sailboats for Sale...
  • Find Used Sailing Gear for Sale...
  • List your Sailboat for Sale...
  • List your Used Sailing Gear...

Our eBooks...

Collage of eBooks related to sailing

A few of our Most Popular Pages...

Boat anchoring technique

Just a headsail and a mainsail - simple and efficient. 

Read more...

Sketch of a cutter rigged sailboat

A smaller headsail and a staysail makes sail handling easier.

Sketch of a ketch rigged sailboat

A second mast with a mizzen sail, for greater versatility.

Copyright © 2024  Dick McClary  Sailboat-Cruising.com

Web Analytics

Sailboat Owners Forums

  • Forums New posts Unanswered threads Register Top Posts Email
  • What's new New posts New Posts (legacy) Latest activity New media
  • Media New media New comments
  • Boat Info Downloads Weekly Quiz Topic FAQ 10000boatnames.com
  • Classifieds Sell Your Boat Used Gear for Sale
  • Parts General Marine Parts Hunter Beneteau Catalina MacGregor Oday
  • Help Terms of Use Monday Mail Subscribe Monday Mail Unsubscribe

Best Bluewater boat 40'-45'

  • Thread starter rlewis
  • Start date Jan 12, 2007
  • Forums for All Owners
  • Ask All Sailors

My wife and I are thinking seriously about retiring into the cruising lifestyle. After a year or so cruising the Carribean and the Gulf, we plan to go to the Med and beyond. I read Nigel Calder's book on the subject and am cranked about identifying some boat options. However, I haven't found the right search terms to pull up decent bluewater boats. I'm looking for a cutter sloop in the 40' to 45' range, with AVS >130, STIX and capsize ratios well within the bluewater range, full keel with skeg mounted rudder, and a host of other specs that Calder has convinced me are important. Who makes boats like these? Rich P.S. I checked out Gozzard yachts - the hull design is perfect, though the accommodations lack a good seaberth amidships. Also, expensive done in cherry, but awfully pretty!  

Tom Spohn

This Site may help get you started. http://www.image-ination.com/sailcalc.html  

Ross

The cruising club of america has many members that share your dreams. Check out their web site. http://www.cruisingclub.org/seamanship/seamanship_boats.htm  

sailingseadragon

sailingseadragon

Consider the Island Packet 45 a boat now longer in production or the new IP440. Both are outstanding boats. Island Packet 45 http://www.ipy.com/Default.php?Page=IP45 Island Packet 440 http://www.ipy.com/Default.php?Page=IP440 IMHO  

RichH

Follow the eminent blue-water 'designers' ...... Robert Perry, William Creighlock, Bob Harris, Pieter Beeldsnijder, etc. Top designers also offer 'consultation services' to help choose the 'right' boat for you and your budget (for fee, of course). Passport, Tayana, Valiant, Pacific Seacraft, Baba, Gozzard, Morris, TaShing, Little Harbor, Hans Christian etc. etc. etc.. Go to: http://roguewaveyachtsales.com/roguewave/index.html as a representative broker for 'prime' blue water boats .... such brokers will also have knowledge of a 'plethora' of well built quality boats that are 'little known' beyond 'marketing hype' Hope this helps.  

henkmeuzelaar

henkmeuzelaar

Nonplussed: found no answers in the Caribbean?? With thousands of cruising vessels milling around there most every type of boat and sailor is sure to be represented. Perhaps your itinerary kept you from taking full advantage of that opportunity. If so, the best way to find answers to your questions may be to go back and familiarize yourself with as many boats and sailors as you can. IMHO, no amount of websurfing or stomping around boatshows can substitute for being in the middle of where the action is. In the half-dozen or so busy cruising destinations we have visited over the past 15 years (not necessarily with the best of memories... but that is a different story) I have never met a sailor yet who didn't know where to find his dreamboat. In general, the opposite tends to be true. About half of them have already found it and love nothing better than to give you a grand-tour and regale you with their real-life experiences whereas the other half may also be looking but simply because they want something a little bigger, smaller, stronger, faster, etc. etc. that fits their budget and cruising style. Good luck! Flying Dutchman  

rlewis, From the answers that you have received. I think that your next move is to start researching the obscure corners of the cruising sailboat world. You have read Calder. That is a start, there must be forty or fifty others that have written their thoughts, opinions and conclusions into book form. I had suggested a check into the Cruising Club of America as a place to start. My experience is such that all great writters rely on the work and experience of others to flesh out their work. If you read the acknowledgements in Calders work and hunt up those he refers to you will get a new body of work to read and within all that you will find a treasure house of experiences of others most of whom are now long dead. Those wonderful old boats that were built before the racing world got involved in building sail boats. Some of the very best of the old boats started out as working sailboats that were able to live long enough to retire and play.  

Moody Buccaneer

Moody Buccaneer

Henk is gentler than I ... It sounds like you are shopping based on a list in a book rather than a list made from your own experience. One might see an image of apple fritters and think that apple fritters would be wonderful to serve to the family for a holiday dinner. After moths of research one might find a recipe for the worlds finest apple fritters. Having the recipe in hand, one could spend months tracking down all the ingredients on the list. Then one could discover that they don't like cooking, or they don't like apples, or that apples make them sick .... What Nigel Calder or anyone else thinks makes a good "blue water" boat will mean nothing if you can't sail, or don't like it, or you get violently ill or have panic attacks at sea. I could be very wrong, but I think you have very little (if any) sailing experience. IMO starting out with a boat like you describe will slow the learning process and not ensure any success cruising. Shannon Yachts are unquestionably ocean going boats. They don't have full keels. A 10 year old Shannon 43' goes for $395,000, a 20 year old Shannon goes for $375,000. What is your budget? Is it prudent to be thinking about a purchase that size based on someone else's shopping list? Did you choose your wife based on what you read in someones book? If you have a world cruiser budget, why not spend the price of 2 winches and buy a small boat? Learn to sail, learn to keep it in top condition, sail the crap out of it and talk to the owners of bigger boats you meet. Charter bigger boats. Get a feel for the difference between 35 and 45 feet. See if you get sick and stay sick for days on end. When you have your own shopping list, finding the right boat will be easy.  

Charter a boat in Tortola or one of the other islands frequented by folks who are doing what you want to do. Bring lots wine. Row around the anchorage in the afternoon and invite folks over for a glass of wine. Wine is better than rum in this case because it's more expensive and supplies run out faster, plus your informants may stay lucid. Advantages to this plan; It gets you to the islands sooner. You get a chance to talk to folks who are doing what you propose to do. It would be impossible to exaggerate the value of this kind of input before you spend a pile of money. You have an excuse to spend a significant amount of money on a great winter adventure.  

Books This is an excellent list of options for me and my thanks go out to all. Temporally, I appreciate Henk's and Fred's suggestions, as I'm chartering in the BVI next month and will make the opportunity to meet bluewater cruisers happen. Moody Buc - you assume too much and chastise too vigorously. Of the 19 sentences in your post, 10 were either stating incorrect assumptions about my lack of experience or just being down-right sarcastic. I've seen you make similar assumptions to other people's posts and I have to tell you, it doesn't feel good, nor does it encourage infrequent posters who are just looking for information to post. I'm a boat owner, race and cruise regularly, have taken through ASA 106, have a Master's 50 ton license, and have chartered boats up to 54' extensively - but only on production boats set up to accommodate the most number of people since that's about all the charterers have available. I've been seasick once and my wife twice. I strongly believe in researching a topic before commiting anything. I believe in BOTH reading all that I can from those who have gone before me - hence, why I listen in on this web site. From those learnings, I proceed to the experential. I don't have enough of a lifetime left to do it the other way around. My budget will be $300K - $425K for a used boat. My timeframe is seven years of learning before I retire and commit to a boat. Again, folks, thanks for your posts. You're all appreciated.  

higgs

I am happy to spend your money get an Amel 53  

As I said, I could be wrong I just have never heard that sort of question from anyone with very much sailing experience. We see much the same question asked about once a week here. I'm sorry that you didn't like my response. From reading your post, it sounded like you were shopping with someone elses list, and are not very clear about the nature of boats. What exactly is a "full keel with skeg mounted rudder"? You cannot find such a boat, because they do not exist. Either it has a full keel and the rudder is mounted to the keel, or it has a fin keel and a skeg mounted rudder. I think you will find that there are two schools of thought in offshore yacht design. The traditional, heavy (D/L 300+), full keel or cutaway forefoot boats, and the modern, moderate (D/L 200-300), fin keel boats. Dudley Dix does some very nice blue water boats. I mentioned Shannon in my first post. Michael Kasten does some very nice full keel (cut away forefoot)boats. One often overlooked component of seaworthiness is the ability of the boat to sail to windward in a blow. Most full keel boats are not very good in this regard. Many/most traditional, heavy, full keel boats are motorsailed to weather. A moderate fin keel (ala Cal 40, or Shannon) can have all the directional stability of a full keel boat and also sail well to weather. As you have found, it is hard to find many full keel boats for sale. They are not very popular (IMO for good reason). You will likely end up with a used semi-custom boat if your requirement for a full keel is non-negotiable. This brings up the problem of who built the boat. If the boat was professionally built to Lloyd's or ABYC standards (scantlings) your budget limits your choices. If the boat was owner built, you have to very careful with pre-purchase survey. As soon as you drop the full keel requirement, your budget should give you a choice of many solid blue-water cruisers. Henk chose a Hunter Legend, I like the Shannon's (except for too much wood to take care of), and the 2 cabin Catalina 42. Older Swan's are in your price range, but may be more race oriented than you are looking for. The late 60's early 70's Swans (S&S designs) are good, sound cruisers ... not full keels though. I'd be interested in hearing why you have added a full keel to your list. I'm hard pressed to think of many reasons that would make a full keel a requirement. Once again, I'm sorry if you find the tone of my posts sarcastic. Ken Barnes had a list much like yours when he went boat shopping and we have seen how much good it did him.  

Robert Gainer

I guess you don’t like full keel boats Moody Buccaneer, I guess you don’t like full keel boats with a cutaway forefoot. A large group of people don’t share your opinion about that. I think a well designed fin keel boat is fine offshore but a well designed full keel boat is also just as valid a choice. Going to windward is not an issue with a well handled and properly designed full keel boat and in fact under some condition the added weight and bite of a full keel is advantages. But more then that laying a-hull is much more comfortable in a full keel boat then the lighter fin keel boats. In fact some fin keel boats will not lay-a- hull and if you don’t have sea room running is not always and option. And if short handed or single handed sailing is what you want to do a fin keel might not be directionally stable enough for a windvane system under all conditions. So under some conditions a full keel is very desirable and it all depends on what you want to do. An example would by my first solo trans-Atlantic in 1974. That trip was done with a Carl Alberg designed full keel 22 foot Sea Sprite and I made that trip without any windvane because the hull was so balanced she could make the trip by sail choice and balancing the boat instead of steering. Selecting a boat involves choosing a system. How you intend to sail and handle the boat defines the type of boat you need. Your well thought out opinions are based on your experience and may not fit into someone else’s plans and they would be better off with a different choice of rig and boat instead of forcing their tactics onto your choice of boat. I don’t like to get involved in discussions about what boat someone should buy because if they are asking the question it usually means they don’t yet have the experience and haven’t read up enough to discuss the selection and fully integrate the boat selection with the intended use of the boat. By the way, today I sail a Tartan 34C designed by S&S during the days of the CCA rule. I have described her at times as a full keel boat with a skeg hung rudder. The size and shape of the lateral plane without the rudder is similar to many full keel boats with a cutaway forefoot. Of course the keel does not extend to the aft end of the waterline but the description is adequate for someone who is familiar with hull shapes. Traditionally a full keel boat had a keel from bow to stern with no cutaway at all. Over time the keel has become shorter with more and more of the forefoot missing and the rudder moved forward with the keel. At some point the rudder was separated from the keel and moved back to the aft end of the waterline. In the path of the evolution of today’s boat his step was a full keel with a separated rudder. Today the keel has become a clear fin independent of the canoe body of the hull proper. I enjoy reading some of your posts. What boat do you sail on now? All the best, Robert Gainer  

If you don'r care too much about windward performance look at a Morgan Out Island 41. More of them have been made than any other sail boat over 40 feet. They were built for the charter business in the Caribean, folks who chartered them went home and bout them. Huge inside, built really strong, full length keel but only 4.5 ft of draft. They sell for half of what you would pay for similar accomodation in another boat. A bit like Catalinas that way. The Morgan actually sails pretty well to windward in ocean conditions if you reef soon and let her stay pretty upright. The weight (27,000 lbs) keeps her going through head seas. I like to motor sail to windward anyway, and the Morgan really shines motor sailing to windward in ocean conditions. Google up Morgan Out Island 41 and check it out.  

i've me a little time folks and we can make this discussion fun. http://old.cruisingworld.com/herbrich.htm This link is to Richey and Jester. http://www.boatingcornwall.co.uk/mostpopular.var.1087528.mostviewed.curlew_owners_return.php This link is to Pauline and Tim Carr and Curlew Hal and Margaret Roth Lyn and Larry Pardey These sailors have earned the right to having their opinions listened to with undivided attention. Donna Lange is quickly getting there. Others here can add names as they see fit but the thing that these people share in common is that their boats are on the small side of all of the discussion here.  

Research Help I am a little farther away from realizing my dream than you are but have basically the same one. In 10-15 years I hope to spend at least half the year exploring the Carib and ultimately making it over to the Med. Maybe even farther. I am still gaining experience, I have a lot to gain yet, and thus knowledge about the boat I want for the next stage. My desires so far are very similar to yours. Stability and able to take what the ocean can dish out lead to a heavily built boat. Probably something in between a full keel and fin keel with rudder mounted on skeg with prop in an aperture for protection of both. I will want to wait for a good weather window and if caught be able to lie a hull. Solid fiberglass hull, private rear stateroom, good tankage, plentiful storage. A cutter rig for the greater options in sail plan it would give me. I also very much like the idea of a Center Cockpit, all of which is why a Morgan Out Island 41 is very near the top of my list. While I know in general what I want knowing which boats offer that are whole different story. There are literally hundreds of different boats out there so finding those that meet my requirements is the hard part. I figured that was the point of this post, to get help from others in narrowing down the field, not questioning the posters criteria. Towards that end I mentioned the Morgan OI 41. Two books that I have in my library to help are: - Used Boat Notebook by John Kretschmer. This contains reviews of 50 different boats describing all aspects of them, strengths, weaknesses, etc. This was very helpful for me as it suggested boats I would not have otherwise. - The Seaworthy Offshore Sailboat by John Vigor. I like this one a lot because it goes into virtually every feature of a sailboat and describes why the author things it is valuable for a blue water boat. Using this criteria there is a test a boat can be put through to attempt to score its blue water ability. Not a real help in finding a specific boat but for me it has been helpful in identifying those things that I desire in my dream cruising boat. I don't have the opportunity now to spend much time on boats other than my current which is a 1971 Ericson 29. I love her but she is just not large enough for my wife and I to spend much time on; comfortably anyway. As such I need to make use of the same resources as you for finding my boat. Good Luck, Have Fun and Fair Winds.  

Buying a boat by the numbers Randy, The Catalina 30 is a nice boat and you will enjoy her offshore. I also have had the opportunity to work on a lot of them and had some fun doing deliveries for a dealer in my area. I also think you are right when you are comparing a full keel and fin keel approach to sailing to compare the best examples of each type instead of comparing one good boat to one poor boat. Like most knowledgeable people you point to some non dimensional ratios to compare and define boats. You know how it works and I think in the back of your mind are applying a fudge factor to allow for the differences that stem from boat size and its effect of these numbers. But I think some of these numbers are generally used inappropriately and in fact are misleading. From reading some of these boards I think people are comparing apples and oranges and may not understand all the numbers. When you are discussing the relative value of a boat for offshore passage making I think you need to consider the fixed dimensions involved and temper you judgment based on the non dimensional numbers. Ross gives us some links and they are for smaller boats which don’t hold up to scrutiny just by looking at the non dimensional ratios. But they do point out the success you can have with a small full keel boat. Stability or the power to carry sail varies as the fourth power of the length on the water line but sail area and wetted surface both vary as the square of the length on the water line. This means that a 30 foot boat needs a very different (greater) beam as a percentage of length to have equivalent stability to a 40 foot boat. As boats get longer they have less beam and draft so the ideal displacement length ratio changes with the size of the boat even staying with the same style of boat. But the ideal prismatic coefficient for a given speed length ratio stays the same if you keep the same target for resistance per pound of displacement. It may just be me but I think the non dimensional ratios are best confined to comparing similar boats of similar size instead of using them trying to decide the choice between full keel and fin keel. For the choice between a fin and full keel one thing I would propose is a number that takes into account the crew dimension and the endurance of the boat. The crew dimension is simply (number in crew) X (weight to support each person) X days of endurance you want out of the boat. Because the amount of weight you can add to a boat is a fixed percentage of displacement the smaller the boat in length the greater the displacement length ratio needs to be to carry the crew and stores without overloading the boat. By this way of thinking as the boat gets smaller you need a heaver boat and at some point a full keel boat is the only boat that will carry enough stores for the crew for the length of time needed. The flip side is as the boat gets larger the need for displacement to carry the crew and have sail carrying power decreases and a comparatively lighter boat with a fin keel starts to come into her own particularly given the fact that sail area or your horsepower only varies as the square of the water line length. As boats get longer the heaver boat will be underpowered because of the difference between the forth power and second power effects of stability and sail area. That’s why larger full keel boats are comparatively slower then smaller full keel boats. It all goes back to making a decision using an overview of the facts and the buyer’s opinions instead of focusing on one or two aspects of a design. The right boat for a given trip, crew, style of sailing etc is a blend with a big part of the decision based on the sailing style, skill and background of the skipper. The numbers are just a part of the decision process and shouldn’t be over emphasized during the process. All the best, Robert Gainer  

Right you are Robert You are exactly right. The realtionship of pounds per crew per day to boat size forces higher D/L ratios for smaller cruising boats. It is amplified by the fact that smaller boats are slower and have to spend more days at sea to make a passage (more food + more water = more total load for same number of miles). Your observations on the relationship between length, displacement and sail carrying power are also spot on. No need for fat boats as the length goes up. Ted Brewer's "Motion Comfort Ratio" is often used to make a case for heavy boats. But if you look at the formula, the D/L required to get a "good" MCR goes down as the length of the boat goes up. A moderate 40 foot LWL boat can have a better MCR than a heavy 25 foot LWL boat. If your budget allows, one of the Dashew designs (very low D/L for a "cruiser") at 55+ feet LWL gives both speed and comfort. At 40-45 feet LOA I don't see a need for a full keel hulform. At 25-30 feet the case gets better. My C30 has a lightship displacement of 10,500, the sailing weight on my IMS certificate is just under 13,000. At 834 pounds per inch immersion 2500 pounds of load sinks the boat about 3 inches. I'm looking at a total load budget of 2500 pounds in gear, crew, water, food, and fuel. As I go back together with the boat in the next couple of months I'll keep a log of everything that goes back in the boat. If I use 350 pounds each for two crew and clothing, I have 1800 pounds for the rest. If I budget 21 pounds a day for food and water per person for 30 days at sea, that's 1260 pounds (for 2 people), leaving only 540 pounds for other gear, fuel and spares. If I add a water maker I can reduce the weight budget from 21 pounds per day per person (5 food, 16 water) to say 10 pounds/person/day. Now my 30 day supply is 600 pounds and I can carry 1140 pounds of gear (including the watermaker), fuel, and spares. 2 gallons/day/person for 30 days is 120 gallons of water for two people. How many small boats have that much tankage? For the same passage, the 40-45 foot boat might need only 20 days of supplies. That's 80 gallons in the water tanks in the larger boat. Again, no need for the full keel hullform on the 45 footer that might allow the 30 footer to have 120 gallons of water on board. I know it sounds like I'm over-thinking this, but I think it is prudent to keep the boat within design limits and have a safety margin in stores for any planned passage. BTW S&S has done some of the nicest boat ever to sail. I think it would be hard to go very wrong with one of their cruising designs. Randy  

Randy, from a nutritional point you are allowing too much for food. Cereal products run about 2000 calories per pound as does meat. Legumes(beans, peas etc) run about 1500 calories per pound,canned goods(fruit,tomato sauce)calories per pound. Fats (butter, bacon, summer sausage, hard cheese) allow 3000 calories per pound. Allow about 2500 calories per person per day depending on indivual size. Lyn Pardey in her book "The care and feeding of an off shore crew" covers this topic very nicely.  

  • This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register. By continuing to use this site, you are consenting to our use of cookies. Accept Learn more…

Yachting World

  • Digital Edition

Yachting World cover

J/45 tested: Fast cruiser with timeless appeal

  • Rupert Holmes
  • April 20, 2022

The J/45 is a fast, but civilised, cruiser with a timeless appeal that will resonate with J/Boats’ many long standing devotees

Product Overview

Manufacturer:, price as reviewed:.

We’re close-hauled, sailing the new J/45 at 7.5 knots and catching up with a modern 55-footer, but slowly falling into her lee. Winding on a little mainsheet tightens the leech, putting us in a high mode almost 5° closer to the wind, and we climb above and ahead of the bigger boat. It’s classic J/Boat sailing that’s familiar to thousands of sailors, yet this is a comfortable 45ft cruiser with a host of luxuries including air conditioning.

The J/45 has heaps of appeal to anyone who’s sailed a J in the past. Yet, although the company is responsible for numerous cutting edge designs that changed the way we sail, this boat is more conservative in its nature – it’s an evolution rather than a revolution.

Low freeboard, moderate beam and fine ends by today’s standards, plus a single rudder, put it in classic J/Boat territory. The J/45’s development was also strongly influenced by a desire to produce a boat that’s a joy to sail in light airs, as well as being able to take heavy weather in its stride when necessary.

The J/45 is just as responsive to sail trim as the smaller and racier models in the range and is well powered up in only 8 knots of true wind, when we made 7.5 knots upwind.

45 foot bluewater sailboat

Classic J/Boat hull shape gives good performance and handling. Photo: Andreas Lindlahr/EYOTY

As the wind progressively built above 10 knots we gradually depowered by pumping on more backstay tension as the boat accelerated further. In 13 knots of true wind we were making 8.4 knots of boat speed, at a true wind angle of only 42°. In stronger breezes the polars show optimal tacking angles of little more than 70°.

A German mainsheet system, led to winches just ahead of the helm stations, plus a 6:1 traveller, makes for easy trimming upwind. The rig is also easy to depower as the breeze builds – increased backstay tension is effective in changing the mainsail to a completely different shape, markedly reducing its drive.

Collaboration

The initial concept for this new flagship was developed and refined over three years of conversation between the American J/Boats team and J/Composites, based in Les Sables d’Olonne, with further input from Berret-Racoupeau for interior design, layout and ergonomics.

From the outset the key vision for the J/45 was for a comfortable cruiser that’s lots of fun to sail, even in light airs. It’s primarily intended for a family or two couples to spend up to 10 days or so on board, though of course the boat is capable of far more than this.

J/Boats has long favoured wheels over tillers, even on boats as small as the J/105 where tiller steering would create a more open cockpit and facilitate sail trimming when helming and alone in the cockpit. This philosophy is carried over to the J/45, where the narrow transom means the two wheels are of a small diameter.

The instrument pods at the helm stations are small, but both have enough space for a steering compass, pilot controls and a small MFD. Our test boat also has B&G Nemesis displays above the companionway hatch garage, but these were partially obscured by the coachroof winches, so I’d be likely to also opt for 20/20 or larger displays at the mast.

J/45 provides performance and pleasure

Throughout the test the helm was super light but responsive, with good feel that built reassuringly as the rudder loaded up when the J/45 was powered up and well heeled. My notes sum it up as: “a brilliant blend of performance and pleasure, with a lovely feel in the helm at all times.”

45 foot bluewater sailboat

Tacking into an uncomfortable swell using the optional heavy weather staysail. Photo: Andreas Lindlahr/EYOTY

On the downside, it’s impossible to adjust the vang and backstay from the port helm station, although the mainsheet winches and traveller are within reach when sitting on the side deck astride the wheel.

Bearing away to a true wind angle of 135° and unfurling the Code 0 in 12 knots of true wind gave 8 knots of boat speed and beautifully easy, yet fast, sailing. Our highest speeds of the test were also achieved under Code 0, with 16 knots of true wind just abaft the beam. The boat powered up well, still feeling relaxed with speeds nudging into double figures, although weight built noticeably in the helm in the strongest gusts.

Article continues below

45 foot bluewater sailboat

Pogo 44 boat test: designed to thrill

Bearing away around the Îles de Glenans off the south Brittany coast we unfurl the gennaker of the new Pogo…

45 foot bluewater sailboat

X-Yachts X4 – a new X to mark the spot between cruising and performance

Two years ago X-Yachts announced a new flagship, the appealing X6. Although later than anticipated, the first of these 63-footers…

Running at a true wind angle of 150° – marginally deeper than the polars show as the optimal angle for downwind VMG – with the 180m2 A2 spinnaker in 9 knots of breeze we made a respectable 6.1 knots. Luffing up 25° resulted in a jump to 8.5 knots.

Heading up further to 110° true and the apparent well forward of the beam, we were fully powered up and well heeled, although with only a small increase in speed. However, this gave the opportunity for an interesting test of the grip provided by the single rudder. When I first sailed twin rudder boats in the late 1990s I was absolutely hooked on the concept – the extra control they offered was a big revelation at the time. However, single rudder designs have been continuously developed and refined since then and the best have improved enormously.

The J/70 sportsboat, for instance, is an example of a modern design that offers precise handling and control through a single rudder, even though it’s transom hung and therefore operates in an area with a lot of turbulence.

As with TP52 s, the J/45’s rudder is well forward under the hull, clear of such turbulence, which helps maintain laminar water flow across the blade even at high angles of incidence and heel.

45 foot bluewater sailboat

It’s just possible to reach the mainsheet winch from the helm. Photo: Rupert Holmes

When fully powered up close reaching with the big kite I tried bearing away sharply without easing the sheets. The J/45 answered the helm instantly with a dramatic course change and no hint of the rudder being anywhere close to stalling.

On the other hand, one downside of the moderate beam and finer ends is that the J/45 tends to sail at greater angles of heel than wide bodied twin-rudder yachts, where the angle rarely exceeds 20°.

Two choices are offered for handling the luff of the mainsail when reefing: either a strop with a dogbone that’s made fast near the gooseneck, or a downhaul led aft to the coachroof winches. The headsail of our test boat sets from an optional low-profile Facnor FD furler, while for stronger winds there’s a furling staysail that’s set on a halyard lock. This can be configured for use with the optional self-tacking jib sheet track and offers an excellent set up for winds over 20 knots.

The keel-stepped mast is unusual among performance cruisers today, but makes sense in this case as the extra support at the partners means the section is one size smaller than would be needed for a deck-stepped spar. This reduces weight aloft and makes the rig more responsive to backstay tension when depowering the mainsail.

45 foot bluewater sailboat

Glorious sailing with the big A2 spinnaker. Photo: Rupert Holmes

Effort has been made to keep displacement low, although it’s still significantly heavier than some performance cruisers of this size. But at the same time performance is optimised for the fully loaded displacement, which minimises the effect loading the boat has on both speed and handling.

Construction is of infused vinylester resin and hull laminates are over-specified to give excellent stiffness and improved impact resistance.

Well specified

Nothing is skimped on in the deck layout and equipment on the J/45, while the standard specification is generally of a very high level. It includes many items that other yards list as expensive options, such as Nitronic 50 rod rigging, hydraulic backstay and vang, white painted aluminium spars, and a 60hp engine with three-blade folding prop.

Systems work flawlessly and the six winches are generously sized. At the same time, the deck has a very uncluttered appearance, with lines including halyards and the mainsheet system led aft beneath conduits. The hydraulic backstay and vang markedly reduce the amount of string in the cockpit, as do the standard headsail sheet cars that run on a track with pins, although towed cars are offered as an option.

Our test boat has the electric option for the port coachroof winch, which makes for easy spinnaker hoists and trimming. The pit area is also provided with self-stowing washboards and a commendably large rope bin. Other neat touches include the lazybag arrangement, which makes it easy to roll away excess fabric while sailing.

45 foot bluewater sailboat

Slimline helm station pods have enough space for a plotter display. Photo: Rupert Holmes

The J/45 cockpit layout will be immediately familiar to any keen sailor, although unlike many yachts of this size, there’s no separate guest cockpit for those who want to stay well clear of the action. The cockpit is narrow by today’s standards, especially towards the transom, but the lack of wide open spaces here is not detrimental for a serious sailing yacht. Deep moulded bulwarks, plus stainless steel coachroof grab rails, give security when going forward, while the non-slip deck surface of our test boat proved effective, as did the Flexiteek fitted to the cockpit benches and sole.

Cruising stores on the J/45

Two-cabin versions of the J/45 have a large cockpit locker under the starboard bench, which is open to the lazarette and can also be accessed from the interior. There’s a lot of stowage space here, with the main area easily able to swallow a dinghy, several sails, paddleboards and more, although the access from deck is relatively narrow.

It also gives safe access to the quadrant and the pilot ram. In addition, there’s a dedicated liferaft locker, access to the lazarette from the cockpit sole and a large sail locker forward.

Given that most cruising stores and equipment tend to be stowed in the back half of a yacht, the 350lt water tank is under the double berth in the forward cabin, while the chain locker is right forward. This is deliberate to balance the weight of movable equipment and stores, but means weight is not concentrated centrally and it feels wrong to place so much in the ends of the boat. It’s a testament to the boat’s underlying design that this weight in the bow didn’t appear to mar handling, or detract from the lovely feel under sail during our test.

45 foot bluewater sailboat

Access to quadrant and pilot in the lazarette. Photo: Andreas Lindlahr/EYOTY

No one buys a J/Boat solely on the basis of the interior and it’s no surprise the combination of low freeboard and moderate beam limit volume below deck. However, headroom is generous in the saloon and this a sufficiently large yacht to offer a considerable level of comfort.

While the overall style is instantly recognisable as that of a J/Boat, it’s at least a couple of notches above previous models in terms of quality and feel. J Composites has worked hard to achieve this and there’s a wide range of upholstery options.

45 foot bluewater sailboat

Two-cabin versions have excellent stowage aft of the heads compartment, which is also accessible from on deck

The main living, galley and navigation station areas on the J/45 occupy a good length of the boat near the point of maximum beam and are therefore relatively spacious. There are good handholds both at the easy companionway steps and as you move forward into the saloon.

This is wide, with a settee/sea berth to starboard and generous U-shaped seating around the table opposite. On our test boat the aft transverse saloon seat houses an air-conditioning unit with outlets to the saloon and cabins.

At the foot of the companionway the semi U-shape galley has a large single sink and lots of worktop space, along with generally good stowage. Our test boat has a big top loading fridge, plus a second refrigeration unit with drawers, and a three-burner hob with oven. There’s no provision for a dishwasher or a washer-dryer.

45 foot bluewater sailboat

The forward owner’s cabin. The fresh water tank is under the berth.

Opposite the galley, the chart table has a conventional forward-facing seat. It’s a good size, with reasonable stowage but no dedicated bookshelves, although some of the six large eye-level lockers lining each side of the saloon could be used for this purpose.

The owner’s cabin is forward, with a peninsula bed, plus a useful separate seat, good floor space and a decent size heads. However, the freshwater tank under the bed limits stowage volumes. This is mostly in one locker to starboard, with hanging space, plus three shelves and two smaller lockers underneath. While there’s ample space for shorter trips, those who envisage spending extended periods on board in cooler climes may need to also use some of the generous saloon stowage.

45 foot bluewater sailboat

Aft cabins are smaller than average for a new 45-footer

The port aft cabin is a decent size, with reasonable stowage, although it lacks the palatial proportions of those on boats this of length with more freeboard and where maximum beam is carried right aft. On three-cabin boats the starboard cabin is almost a mirror image of this, but has a little less floor area and stowage.

The second heads compartment, to starboard at the base of the companionway steps, is well appointed and benefits from a big shower area in two-cabin boats. Three-cabin versions, however, lose the shower stall.

If you enjoyed this….

Yachting World is the world’s leading magazine for bluewater cruisers and offshore sailors. Every month we have inspirational adventures and practical features to help you realise your sailing dreams. Build your knowledge with a subscription delivered to your door. See our latest offers and save at least 30% off the cover price.

J/Boats has never been afraid to carve its own path. That’s also true for this boat, even though the concept doesn’t obviously push new boundaries. It will certainly appeal to J aficionados. They will appreciate the responsive, precise handling and performance across a wide range of wind speeds and angles. Equally, anyone who’s endured long periods under power while cruising will appreciate the boat’s ability in light airs. It’s really positive to see J/Boats building at this size again. Overall the execution is good and the standard specification impressive, as is attention to detail. For example, this is the only boat of the 10 I tested last winter with cabin sole boards fastened down as per World Sailing’s Offshore Special Regulations, which apply to offshore races and cruising rallies such as the ARC. Add in good resale value and a worldwide dealer/support network and it’s not surprising that this model is already proving popular.

  • BOAT OF THE YEAR
  • Newsletters
  • Sailboat Reviews
  • Boating Safety
  • Sails and Rigging
  • Maintenance
  • Sailing Totem
  • Sailor & Galley
  • Living Aboard
  • Destinations
  • Gear & Electronics
  • Charter Resources
  • Ultimate Boating Giveaway

Cruising World Logo

X-Yachts X46: Best Full-Size Cruiser 45 to 55 Feet

  • By Herb McCormick
  • Updated: December 9, 2019

X-Yachts

The big-boat classes in the 2020 Boat of the Year competition presented some big problems for the judging panel. Take the Full-Size Cruiser 45 to 55 Feet fleet, with a quartet of extremely solid contenders across a wide range of price points and with different design briefs and objectives, ranging from versatile performance-style cruisers to a dedicated bluewater passagemaker. Decisions, decisions, decisions.

At $550,000, the Bavaria C50 packed a lot of punch into a 50-footer. “It’s billed as a family cruiser, and features twin helms and a single rudder,” judge Dan Spurr said. “The representative who presented the boat emphasized the division between the entertainment area and the cockpit and working areas, and that cockpit really resonated with me—for a bigger boat, it’s very efficient to sail.” The Bavaria also struck a chord with fellow judge Ed Sherman: “I’ve been watching the evolution of Bavarias since they first started coming to the United States, and they’ve come a long way. Everything about them is significantly better than the earlier boats, and you get a lot of features for the price. It’s a player in this group.”

Elan Impression 45.1

From a value standpoint, the Elan Impression 41.5 left a strong, good impression on the judging panel. Judge Ralph Naranjo was particularly enamored with the overall build quality of the hull laminate. “It’s an ­ISO-approved Category A offshore boat; they did a really nice job with the vacuum infusion,” he said. “I was crawling in those aft lockers looking at the autopilot arrangement, and could see how well the deck elements and bulkheads went in. And the autopilot installation was great, with an excellent stainless-steel bracket that was bolted and cantilevered to catch both the deck and the bulkhead. The autopilot and rams have to take a huge amount of thrust or push/pull; they need to be in there securely. And they were.”

It was clearly going to take an outstanding vessel to sway the panel’s opinions. It turned out there was not only one other formidable yacht to choose from, but two.

Amel 50

“The Amel 50 is truly an oceangoing globe-trotter,” Sherman said, speaking about the latest, highly anticipated model from the long-standing stalwart French builder. “With a signature watertight forward crash bulkhead, a centrally located sea chest for easily isolating a leak and shutting it down, to a globally conscious shore-power system that can deal with 50 or 60 hertz and 120 or ­230-240 volts, Amel has designed a boat that will have you covered wherever your travels take you. For those who want to cruise in luxury, this is the boat.”

“Amel has long been one of the only worldwide ­companies to offer what is essentially a ‘ready to cruise’ boat,” Spurr said. “The boat can be operated entirely from the security of the cockpit, which has a windshield and hardtop, like many solo offshore racers. Some of my colleagues didn’t like this feature, feeling it isolated the helm from feeling the weather. The boat is not inexpensive, but it also seemed to have the highest-quality finish.”

Bavaria C50

“To me, it’s more of a motorsailer than a traditional cruising sailboat,” Naranjo said. “Her performance under sail is somewhat limited by a fairly high displacement and a modest sail area. She is easy to handle, though, because of her power-assisted sail ­trimming and setting capabilities.”

Sailing prowess is never a debatable issue with X-Yachts, however, and after treating the judges to a world-class sailing experience, they ­ultimately decided that the X-Yachts X46 was the Best Full-Size Cruiser 45 to 55 Feet for 2020. (It was a back-to-back winning effort from X-Yachts; in 2019, X-Yachts’ X49 was also honored as the Best Full-Size Cruiser.)

“This was just a joy to sail,” Sherman said. “A ­performance sailing boat in every sense —very close-winded. It was everything I’ve come to expect from X-Yachts. They are put together by real craftspeople who take a great deal of concern in everything they do. So many little things. For instance, the wiring connections behind the panel board are all bent to 90 degrees and secured in place, and they hand-solder the solid copper bus links between the switches. This is all labor-intensive stuff that you just don’t see on most boats. They’ve always been known for using top-quality gear, and they certainly didn’t cut any corners here.

“X-Yachts are put ­together by real craftspeople who take a lot of pride in their work.”

“The epoxy resin they use in the layup is going to last forever, and the post-cure process is just top shelf,” Sherman continued. “I mean, what can I say? And I believe the pricing is actually pretty darn good. This boat costs $740,000, which is nothing to laugh at—it’s a significant amount of money. But when you compare it dollarwise to some of the other boats out there of similar lengths, you know what? It kind of stands out. And so, yes, I’m a fan. I’ve always been.”

“Like all X-Yachts, it has a unique feature in the construction, with a steel grid that sits on stringers with a balanced lifting point where you can actually lift the entire boat with a crane, with a strop that comes down through a hatch,” Spurr said. “The quality of construction all around seemed very good, with the keel actually bolted to the grid. Basically, we were told that you can’t lose the keel on this boat, which is pretty remarkable. And it’s really a handsome boat all the way around.”

Not to mention, when the final votes were cast, it was a winning one.

See All Winners:

2020 Boats of the Year

Other Winners:

  • Overall Boat of the Year
  • Best Performance Cruiser
  • Best Midsize Cruiser Under 45 feet
  • Best Full-size Cruiser
  • Best Full-size Cruiser Over 55 Feet
  • Best Midsize Cruising Catamaran
  • Best Full-size Multihull
  • Best Charter Boat
  • Most Innovative
  • More: boty , boty 2020 , Sailboats
  • More Sailboats

45 foot bluewater sailboat

Sailboat Preview: Elan GT6 Explorer

David Walters Yachts 58

For Sale: 1984 Camper & Nicholsons 58

Alubat OVNI 430

Alubat Updates OVNI Models

Little Harbor 63 Ketch

For Sale: Little Harbor 63 Ketch

Aerial photography of islands off the coast of the Bahamas

From Paradise to Medical Emergency: A Bahamas Nightmare Turns Lesson Learned

Carolyn Goodlander

Free Medical Advice: The Unwarranted, Unprofessional Edition

Mary Anne Dennis

Gatekeepers of the Waterway

Insulator inspection

Rigging Redo: Our Switch to Synthetic

  • Digital Edition
  • Customer Service
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Email Newsletters
  • Cruising World
  • Sailing World
  • Salt Water Sportsman
  • Sport Fishing
  • Wakeboarding
  • Today's news
  • Reviews and deals
  • Climate change
  • 2024 election
  • Newsletters
  • Fall allergies
  • Health news
  • Mental health
  • Sexual health
  • Family health
  • So mini ways
  • Unapologetically
  • Buying guides
  • Labor Day sales

Entertainment

  • How to Watch
  • My watchlist
  • Stock market
  • Biden economy
  • Personal finance
  • Stocks: most active
  • Stocks: gainers
  • Stocks: losers
  • Trending tickers
  • World indices
  • US Treasury bonds
  • Top mutual funds
  • Highest open interest
  • Highest implied volatility
  • Currency converter
  • Basic materials
  • Communication services
  • Consumer cyclical
  • Consumer defensive
  • Financial services
  • Industrials
  • Real estate
  • Mutual funds
  • Credit cards
  • Balance transfer cards
  • Cash back cards
  • Rewards cards
  • Travel cards
  • Online checking
  • High-yield savings
  • Money market
  • Home equity loan
  • Personal loans
  • Student loans
  • Options pit
  • Fantasy football
  • Pro Pick 'Em
  • College Pick 'Em
  • Fantasy baseball
  • Fantasy hockey
  • Fantasy basketball
  • Download the app
  • Daily fantasy
  • Scores and schedules
  • GameChannel
  • World Baseball Classic
  • Premier League
  • CONCACAF League
  • Champions League
  • Motorsports
  • Horse racing

New on Yahoo

  • Privacy Dashboard

Boat catches fire on Oneida Lake

ONEIDA LAKE, N.Y. (WSYR-TV) — Around 5:45 p.m. on Thursday, August 29, the Sylvan Beach, Clayville and Cleveland Fire Departments were called to a boat fire on Oneida Lake.

Southwest adds redeyes and additional flights for college football season

The Longest-Lasting Cars, Trucks and SUVs To Reach 250,000 Miles and Beyond

Fall dresses are deeply discounted during Labor Day weekend

Most Americans in new survey list inflation, homelessness as ‘very serious’ problems

Some great Amazon Labor Day deals under $50

Sylvan Beach firefighters got to the beachfront and spotted the boat. Fire crews were able to go out and put out the fire before the 22-foot boat sank.

The boat’s occupants had escaped and were found in a nearby vessel. No one was injured during the fire, according to Sylvan Beach Fire Department.

The boat was brought back to shore.

Photo courtesy of the Sylvan Beach Fire Department .

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSYR.

Recommended Stories

9th-year senior te cam mccormick scores miami's first td of the season.

McCormick is the longest-tenured player in college football history.

No, a video game spin-off of The Batman is not in the works, James Gunn says

Responding to a question on Threads about whether Warner Bros. has a game in the works based on the Robert Pattinson-led film, DC Studios’ co-head James Gunn said, 'Sadly there is no truth to this whatsoever.'

Hurry! Amazon Warehouse's secret deals — from Apple to Vizio — are selling out

A Ninja for nearly 60% off, anyone? Some items are open-box, some pre-owned; all are guaranteed.

14 tried-and-true hacks from world travelers — plus their packing essentials

From minimizing checkpoint slowdowns to getting quality shut-eye anywhere, here are the travel secrets we swear by.

Target Labor Day sales to shop right now: The biggest deals on iPads, Vacuums, Air Fryers and more

These deals are on point: A $90 Ninja air fryer, $100 off iconic Sony headphones, patio furniture steals and a boatload more.

Dragon's Dogma director Hideaki Itsuno says he’s leaving Capcom to start a new project

Hideaki Itsuno, who directed the Dragon’s Dogma series and other major games for Capcom, announced on Saturday that he’s leaving the company.

Stanley who? I hate drinking water — unless it's from this bestselling Owala bottle

There's a new sipper in town: This Amazon bestseller is less expensive and less bulky than the trendy tumbler — and it's actually leakproof.

Shoppers say these sandals are comfier than Birkenstocks — they're down to $30 for Labor Day

They feature ample arch support and a contoured footbed, and they've amassed over 58,000 five-star reviews.

This powerful Craftsman hand vacuum makes cleaning a piece of cake, and it's $30 off for Labor Day

It weighs less than five pounds, yet delivers industrial-strength suction.

Olivia Wilde, 40, loves CeraVe, and its bestselling eye cream is on sale for just $8 for Labor Day

'Gentle and simple': A celeb- and derm-approved brand that battles fine lines? There's a reason for 41,000+ 5-star reviews — and it's over 60% off.

Labor Day sales are happening right now: The biggest and best deals from Amazon, Apple, Walmart and more at up to 70% off

Our editors are scouting the biggest Labor Day deals in real time.

These 20 fan-fave beauty products for a head-to-toe glow start at just $3

From do-it-all finds that help minimize pores and wrinkles to an all-in-one makeup stick, they're all less than $20.

Amazon hires the founders of AI robotics startup Covariant

Amazon announced Friday evening that it has hired Covariant's founders — Pieter Abbeel, Peter Chen, and Rocky Duan — along with “about a quarter” of the startup's employees. It's also signed a non-exclusive license to use Covariant’s robotic foundation models. Earlier this year, Chen told TechCrunch that Covariant is building “a large language model, but for robot language.”

This top-rated shacket is 'super soft' and at an all-time low of $14 for Labor Day

Yes, this price is for real! Cozy up to the best deal we've ever seen for this stylish staple.

WWE Bash in Berlin results, grades and analysis: Gunther, Cody Rhodes retain; Rhea Ripley, Damian Priest win

WWE's first premium live event in Germany had a strong card that featured three championship matches and paid off two of the more enthralling storylines in WWE this year.

This Labor Day, Ina Garten's beloved Le Creuset cookware is up to $150 off at Sur La Table

Cook like the Contessa with Dutch ovens, skillets, cocottes and more marked down as low as $22.

Boeing's Starliner is coming back without a crew on September 6

The spacecraft is undocking from the ISS at 6:04PM Eastern time on September 6 at the earliest.

This week in Bidenomics: Maybe things are okay?

Confidence surveys show the inflation shock is finally fading and some Americans are feeling more hopeful.

'Ended up returning my Skims': This tummy-taming bodysuit is down to $12 for Labor Day weekend

'Not only does it snatch your waist, but it's not uncomfortable either!' says one fan.

These fan-favorite tummy-control undies aredown to $4 a pair for Labor Day

'Flatter my natural curves': Over 68,000 shoppers rave about these supportive, full-coverage briefs.

  • Work & Careers
  • Life & Arts

America’s character transplant since Swift Boat

Former US President Donald Trump lays a wreath at Arlington National Cemetery

  • America’s character transplant since Swift Boat on x (opens in a new window)
  • America’s character transplant since Swift Boat on facebook (opens in a new window)
  • America’s character transplant since Swift Boat on linkedin (opens in a new window)
  • America’s character transplant since Swift Boat on whatsapp (opens in a new window)

Edward Luce

This article is an on-site version of our Swamp Notes newsletter. Premium subscribers can sign up here to get the newsletter delivered every Monday and Friday. Standard subscribers can upgrade to Premium here , or explore all FT newsletters

The premise of the Swift boat attacks on John Kerry in 2004 were that he exaggerated his combat heroism and abandoned comrades to their fate. As an example of “stolen valour”, Kerry was thus unfit to be commander-in-chief. The hatchet job — brutally executed by a group of Vietnam veterans not formally tied to George W Bush’s campaign — succeeded. It would stand much less chance of working today.

I thought of Kerry’s unearned fate this week as Donald Trump posed at Arlington National Cemetery with relatives of one of the US marines killed three years ago in Joe Biden’s botched Afghan withdrawal. Though Arlington, like all US military sites, prohibits campaigns from using it as a backdrop, Trump converted the anniversary into a general election photo-op. The image of him standing in front of the graves with his trademark thumbs up was not only jarring; it was a reminder of how much American society has altered in the last two decades. Kerry was badly damaged by allegations that he had betrayed America’s sacred honour. Trump, on the other hand, pays no price for pouring frequent scorn on the very idea of serving one’s country.

This week also happened to be the anniversary of John McCain’s death. Trump in 2015 mocked the then senator McCain for having been taken prisoner in Vietnam. “He’s not a war hero,” Trump said. “I like people who weren’t captured.” According to John Kelly, Trump’s former chief of staff, and a retired Marine general, Trump would openly mock those who had died fighting for their country. Alone among allied leaders in 2018, he could not be bothered to commemorate the D-Day fallen in Normandy. Trump thinks dead or wounded soldiers are “suckers”, according to Kelly, and refused to be pictured next to amputees or people in wheelchairs because “it doesn’t look good for me”. 

I am unaware of any elected leader in the history of democracy who has spoken about their armed forces with such contempt. Yet Trump pays no price for it. Why? Some of it is to do with Trump’s skill at harvesting resentment against the non-serving elites. A veteran once told me that there were few things more annoying than people who dodged the draft saying “Thank you for your service”. When it comes to the supposedly honoured role of veterans in US society, hypocrisy is truly the compliment that vice pays to virtue.

Letting serving members of the military board flights before anyone else is another example of such virtue signalling. Most of the US military is recruited from blue collar communities, often with at least one direct family member having also served. That Trump gets away with insulting their deceased comrades is nevertheless a puzzle. I should add that Kelly felt Trump’s scorn very personally. His son, Robert Michael Kelly, also a marine, died in Afghanistan, aged 29.

Which brings me back to Afghanistan. Biden never recovered from the disastrous pullout. His approval rating dropped below 50 per cent for the first time in August 2021 and never reached that point again. The administration bears full responsibility for the chaotic nature of America’s withdrawal in which the Taliban seized control almost immediately, a result that has increasingly dire consequences today. But as I wrote at the time, the Taliban’s victory was a “whole-of-government, bipartisan, multiple-presidency operation” . Aside from Biden, Trump bears particular responsibility for Afghanistan’s reversion to the dark ages. It was he who negotiated directly with the Taliban, agreed to release 5,000 Taliban prisoners, and set the date (originally April 2021) for full US withdrawal. That he is now trying to piggyback on the deaths of 13 American soldiers whom he would otherwise regards as suckers is quite hard to stomach. 

My esteemed respondent this week is Kori Schake, director of foreign and defence policy at the conservative American Enterprise Institute. She is also one of America’s foremost scholars of civil-military relations. Kori was a senior adviser on McCain’s 2008 presidential campaign. Kori, how does Trump get away with saying such things? Can you think of any precedent?

PS Join us on September 7 in London and online for the annual FT Weekend Festival , where I’ll be hosting a panel with chief foreign affairs commentator Gideon Rachman: America and the world. As a Swamp Notes reader you can take advantage of our special promo code Newsletters24. Register here.

Recommended reading

My column this week urges Kamala Harris to do as many interviews as possible — the more exposure the better. This runs against the conventional wisdom in the Democratic world, which is acquiring nearly as much contempt for the “media” — a useless catch-all term up there with “fascism” and “elites” — as in the Maga world.

My colleague Gideon Rachman wrote a sharp take on how Ukraine’s Zelenskyy is increasingly willing to cross America’s red lines , as well as Putin’s. Frankly, it’s hard to blame Zelenskyy. In denying Ukraine the ability to strike inside Russian territory with US weapons, America continues to tie one hand behind Ukraine’s back.

Do also read the great Daniel Levy in the Guardian on how Biden’s Israel-Gaza strategy is still not working — and is never likely to. Few are better informed or more clear on this subject than Levy. He makes a powerful case.

Kori Schake responds

Attacks on Senator Kerry were successful because many other Vietnam veterans felt a strong sense of betrayal that he’d made his political name criticising the war. Ed, I’m less confident than you are that similar critiques would not resonate today (or that criticisms of Kerry were unfair). But those aren’t the circumstances of Governor Walz, who served 24 years and was a senior non-commissioned officer. He may have occasionally embroidered here and there, but the attacks look feeble. Trump’s exemptions and Senator Vance’s service as a one-tour media specialist hardly glisten by comparison.

Trump is trying to outrun his earlier, disrespectful comments by embracing the Abbey Gate families. The Republican convention showcased them poignantly. Republicans are capitalising on the genuine bereavement many veterans and families experience regarding the end of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan — about which President Biden insists he made the right decisions. That, too, feels disrespectful to many even though, as you rightly point out, President Trump set the abandonment in motion. But he wasn’t in office when people were clinging to landing gear as aircraft took off and veterans were desperately working networks to get Afghan allies to safety.

By deriding “the generals,” pardoning troops convicted of serious crimes at court martial, and demagoguing only some service as worthy, Trump is engaged in a sinister effort to break up the good order and discipline of the American military — to reach past the leadership and create insurrectionists among the ranks.

PS Despite the common misconception, it’s not true that the American military is disproportionately recruited from among the poor. Nineteen per cent of the poorest quintile of our country serve, as do 17 per cent of the richest quintile, and the majority of recruits are from middle income families. Our military comes disproportionately from nearby military bases and from military families. Nor are their politics distinguishable from other Americans of equivalent education and income. 

Your feedback

And now a word from our Swampians . . .

In response to “On China, Kamala Harris is a blank slate” : “Chinese commentators are not optimistic about a turn for the better in relations with the US, but they are more worried about Trump than about Harris. Stability and some level of communication are as much as they could wish for, and neither of these are Trumpian virtues. Harris’s silence on China could be taken as a good sign; perhaps she thinks before she speaks.” — Brantly Womack

We’d love to hear from you. You can email the team on [email protected] , contact Ed on [email protected] and follow him on X at @EdwardGLuce . We may feature an excerpt of your response in the next newsletter

Recommended newsletters for you

US Election Countdown — Money and politics in the race for the White House. Sign up here

Unhedged — Robert Armstrong dissects the most important market trends and discusses how Wall Street’s best minds respond to them. Sign up here

Promoted Content

Follow the topics in this article.

  • US foreign policy Add to myFT
  • Donald Trump Add to myFT
  • FT Swamp Notes Add to myFT
  • Edward Luce Add to myFT

IMAGES

  1. 1992 Bluewater Yachts Coastal Cruiser 45 for sale. View price, photos

    45 foot bluewater sailboat

  2. Bluewater 45 Coastal Cruiser Boat For Sale

    45 foot bluewater sailboat

  3. 45′ Bluewater Sailboat Total Cost of Ownership: $276,814.11

    45 foot bluewater sailboat

  4. 1978 Used Bluewater Yachts Coastal Cruiser 45 Cruiser Boat For Sale

    45 foot bluewater sailboat

  5. 1978 Bluewater Yachts Coastal Cruiser 45 for sale. View price, photos

    45 foot bluewater sailboat

  6. 1978 Bluewater Yachts Coastal Cruiser 45 Motoryacht for Sale in Fields

    45 foot bluewater sailboat

VIDEO

  1. [OFF MARKET] Dufour 525 (ALIENOR)

  2. Tatoosh 42 Walkthrough By Joe Zammataro at Preferred Yachts

  3. ALLURES 45.9s Test sail and full tour

  4. Unveiling the Brand New Seahunter 45 VTS

  5. Feast your eyes on the first Vanton 45 Cabin Cruiser

  6. Sailing World Magazine Boat of the Year 2023 Best Crossover: J/45

COMMENTS

  1. 17 Legendary Bluewater Sailboats Under 50 Feet (with Photos)

    The legendary bluewater sailboats under 50 feet include Rustler 36, Tartan 37, Hallberg-Rassy 42F, Baba 30, Island Packet 38, Pacific Seacraft 37, Valiant 40, Najad 370, Moody 42, Halberg-Rassy 39, Sweden Yachts 45, Boreal 47, Amel Super Maramu, Outbound 44, Hylas 49, Malo 46, and Garcia Exploration 45. These legendary sailboats have earned ...

  2. The best bluewater sailboats (we analyzed 2,000 boats to find out)

    The 10 best bluewater boats. 1. Westsail 32. Photo credit: SailboatData.com. The Westsail 32 is one of the most iconic bluewater cruisers and 19 have set out to cross the Pacific in the PPJ rally since 2009. In 1973, this small cruising sailboat garnered a 4-page spread in Time magazine.

  3. 10 of the Best Bluewater Sailboats Under 40 Feet

    Length: 35′. Courtesy Gemini Catamarans. The Gemini Legacy 35 is a bluewater sailboat under 40 feet designed with a focus on stability, safety, and ease of handling. Its catamaran design, with a beam of 14 feet, provides remarkable stability both at anchor and underway.

  4. The best bluewater sailboats under 40 feet (we analyzed ...

    The Westsail 32 is one of the most iconic bluewater cruisers. Built by the Westsail Corporation in the 1970s, this plucky, small sailboat has developed a cult following over the decades. Since 2009, 19 have set out to cross the Pacific in the PPJ rallies. The Westsail 32 is known for its sturdy construction, seaworthiness, and classic looks.

  5. 43 of the best bluewater sailboat designs of all time

    Allures 51.9 price: €766,000. The Ovni 370 is another cunning new aluminum centreboard offering, a true deck saloon cruiser for two. The designers say the biggest challenge was to create a ...

  6. Twelve Top Bluewater Cruising Boats

    This 53-footer is idiosyncratically French, and it's also a superbly focused bluewater cruiser. Designed to be handled by a couple, its ketch rig is docile yet effective, with sails set on electric furling gears and some ingenious sail handling systems. Nearly 500 of these boats were built before Amel replaced it with the 54.

  7. 5 Top Affordable Bluewater Cruising Sailboats

    With these considerations in mind, here are my picks—five top choices for affordable bluewater cruising sailboats (in alphabetical order). Caliber 40 LRC. The Caliber 40 design appeared in 1991 and through its evolution into the 40 LRC, remains a very attractive cutter. It has a fully encapsulated, elongated fin keel, and the ballast to ...

  8. Preowned sailboats for sale over 45 feet

    Preowned sailboats for sale over 45 feet preowned sailboats for sale by owner. Home. Register & Post. View All Sailboats. Search. ... Ted Brewer 45 CC Chen Blue Water Cruiser: Length: 44.8' Beam: 13' Draft: 6' Year: 1979: Type: cruiser: Hull: ... 31' Seafarer 31 ft MK1 Gulf Coasts Carrabelle Florida, Florida Asking $9,800. 30' Pearson Wanderer

  9. 45-foot sailboat: aluminium blue water sailboat (14 m)

    The Allures 45.9 sailboat is an ingenious, high-performance aluminium centreboarder. ... Allures 45.9 - The modern ocean-going 45-foot sailboat THE ARCHETYPAL BLUE WATER CRUISER "The Allures 45.9 is a 45-foot centreboard sailboat offering comfort and performance and is easily managed by a short-handed crew, in complete serenity." ...

  10. OCEANIS 45 (BENETEAU)

    45.42 ft / 13.84 m: LWL: ... Designed to determine if a boat has blue water capability. The CSF compares beam with displacement since excess beam contributes to capsize and heavy displacement reduces capsize vulnerability. The boat is better suited for ocean passages (vs coastal cruising) if the result of the calculation is 2.0 or less. ...

  11. 5 Top Affordable Bluewater Cruising Sailboats

    Below, the Tartan 3700 has two cabins and one head with a stall shower. The saloon has the space of a much bigger boat and there's a full-sized nav station which is perfect for long-distance cruising. A new 3700 will set you back around $400,000, and 10 to 12 year-old Tartan 3700s list for between $170, 000 and $220,000.

  12. Bluewater sailboats for sale by owner.

    Bluewater preowned sailboats for sale by owner. Bluewater used sailboats for sale by owner. Home. Register & Post. ... 45' Seamaster Ketch 45 Cape Canaveral, Florida Asking $52,000. 42' Pearson 424 Ketch ... 31' Seafarer 31 ft MK1 Gulf Coasts Carrabelle Florida, Florida Asking $9,800. 25.5' Hunter 25.5 Oak Point, Texas

  13. Pre-Owned Bluewater Cruising Sailboats For Sale

    OYSTER COLLECTION. Oyster is one of the world's top bluewater cruising sailboat brands. Built in the UK, Oysters are finely crafted seaworthy yachts that capable of ocean passages and circumnavigation, with their most popular models being in the 50-70ft range. The Oyster Collection features current Oyster yachts for sale as well as videos ...

  14. 45′ Bluewater Sailboat Total Cost of Ownership: $276,814.11

    45 foot Bluewater Sailboat 3 year cost of ownership totals. ... If you're in the market for a 45 ish foot boat the best thing you can do is use these articles to keep track of which of the projects you're looking at down the road are big expensive projects. Every boat buying article talks about blisters but nobody mentions sodablasting and ...

  15. The best blue water cruiser under 45ft

    Boat: Hardin 45 Voyager Alice B., Gig Harbor 10, Orca 7 1/2 sloop, 16' sea kayak. Posts: 439. Images: 1. Re: The best blue water cruiser under 45ft. I like my slow but comfortable Hardin Voyager 45, but it's slow and not for everybody. My choice if I could do it again would be a Bob Perry designed, Norseman 447. To me they are perfect, period.

  16. 45-foot sailboat: RM 1380, large plywood sailing yacht

    Choosing a bluewater sailboat (size, keel type, etc.) Best coastal cruising sailboat: how to choose (size, keel, etc.) Best solo sailboat / single-handed: choosing your sailing yacht; ... A 45-foot sailboat made of plywood-epoxy, the RM1380 is exceptionally elegant and racy, and capable of long cruises, such as a circum-navigation or a ...

  17. Popular Cruising Yachts from 45

    Welcome to this ever-growing gallery of some of the most popular cruising yachts between 45 and 50 feet (13.7m to 15.2m) long overall. Cruising Yachts featured on this page... Aerodyne 47; Allures 45.9; Amel Santorin 46; Atlantic 49; Bavaria 44; Bavaria 46 Cruiser; Bavaria 50 Cruiser;

  18. Bluewater Sportfishing Boats for sale

    Bluewater boats for sale on YachtWorld are offered at a swath of prices from $29,000 on the relatively more affordable end, with costs up to $1,345,000 for the more lavish yachts on the market today. What Bluewater model is the best? Some of the most iconic Bluewater models currently listed include: Ingrid 38, 2150, 25 T, 2850 and 2850 CC.

  19. Best Bluewater boat 40'-45'

    A moderate 40 foot LWL boat can have a better MCR than a heavy 25 foot LWL boat. If your budget allows, one of the Dashew designs (very low D/L for a "cruiser") at 55+ feet LWL gives both speed and comfort.u000bu000bAt 40-45 feet LOA I don't see a need for a full keel hulform.

  20. Bluewater Yachts for sale

    Bluewater Yachts on Boat Trader. Bluewater Yachts is a boat builder in the marine industry that offers boats for sale in a variety of sizes on Boat Trader, with the smallest current boat listed at 45 feet in length, to the longest vessel measuring in at 68 feet, and an average length of 53.99 feet.

  21. J/45 tested: Fast cruiser with timeless appeal

    Water: 350lt / 77gal. Sail area/disp ratio: 25.9. Disp/length ratio: 139. Designer: Alan Johnstone. Builder: j-boats.com. Price: ex VAT €458,380. The J/45 is a fast, but civilised, cruiser with ...

  22. MORGAN 45

    53.45 ft / 16.29 m: Sailboat Links. Designers: Charles Morgan: Builders: Morgan Yachts: Download Boat Record: Notes. Tooling was later used to build the STARRAT & JENKS 45. ... over 50 indicates an extremely heavy bluewater boat. Comfort ratio = D ÷ (.65 x (.7 LWL + .3 LOA) x Beam^1.33), where displacement is expressed in pounds, and length is ...

  23. X-Yachts X46: Best Full-Size Cruiser 45 to 55 Feet

    Take the Full-Size Cruiser 45 to 55 Feet fleet, with a quartet of extremely solid contenders across a wide range of price points and with different design briefs and objectives, ranging from versatile performance-style cruisers to a dedicated bluewater passagemaker. Decisions, decisions, decisions. At $550,000, the Bavaria C50 packed a lot of ...

  24. Boat catches fire on Oneida Lake

    ONEIDA LAKE, N.Y. (WSYR-TV) — Around 5:45 p.m. on Thursday, August 29, the Sylvan Beach, Clayville and Cleveland Fire Departments were called to a boat fire on Oneida Lake. Sylvan Beach firefighters got to the beachfront and spotted the boat. Fire crews were able to go out and put out the fire before the 22-foot […]

  25. America's character transplant since Swift Boat

    The premise of the Swift boat attacks on John Kerry in 2004 were that he exaggerated his combat heroism and abandoned comrades to their fate. As an example of "stolen valour", Kerry was thus ...