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Sailboat Specifications

Elite 45

Masthead Sloop · Fin W/Spade Rudder

Designed by Ron Holland · Built by Kirie/Henri Wauquiez (Fra) · First built 1986

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LOA 45.92 ft  ·  Beam 14.08 ft  ·  Displacement 22,000.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 1,152.00 ft²  ·  Masthead Sloop  ·  Fin W/Spade Rudder
About the Elite 45 Sailboat

Designed by renowned naval architect Ron Holland and built by the respected French yard Kirie/Henri Wauquiez, this elegant 46-footer represents classic 1980s sailing yacht design at its finest. First launched in 1986, the Elite 45 combines the sophisticated lines and performance-oriented thinking that made Holland a legend in yacht design circles. With her fin keel and spade rudder configuration, this masthead sloop delivers responsive handling and solid upwind performance. The substantial displacement of 22,000 pounds, backed by 8,800 pounds of ballast, provides reassuring stability for extended offshore passages while maintaining enough performance capability to satisfy sailors who appreciate a spirited ride. Her comfortable 25.73 comfort ratio suggests she's well-suited for long-distance cruising, while the moderate sail-area-to-displacement ratio of 23.57 indicates balanced performance without being overly aggressive. The Elite 45 excels as a capable bluewater cruiser that doesn't sacrifice sailing performance for comfort. Her hull speed of 8.05 knots and solid construction make her equally at home on coastal adventures or ocean crossings. The Wauquiez build quality ensures durability and attention to detail that serious cruising sailors demand in a long-term sailing partner.

Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 45.92 ft / 14.00 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 36.08 ft / 11.00 m
Beam 14.08 ft / 4.29 m
Max Draft 7.70 ft / 2.35 m
Displacement 22,000.00 lb / 9,979 kg
Ballast 8,800.00 lb / 3,992 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 1,152.00 ft² / 107.02 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin w/spade rudder
Rigging Type Masthead Sloop
Construction FG
Designer Ron Holland
Builder Kirie/Henri Wauquiez (FRA)
First Built 1986
Related Sailboats X 452 · Oyster 46 · Centurion 45 · Dufour Classic 45 · Cambria 44
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Engine & Accommodations
Engine Make Perkins
Engine Type Diesel
Horsepower 50
Fuel Capacity 60 gals / 227 L
Water Capacity 185 gals / 700 L
Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Elite 45's sail area to displacement ratio?

The Elite 45 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 23.57. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Elite 45's comfort ratio?

The Elite 45 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 25.73. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Elite 45 safe for offshore sailing?

The Elite 45 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 2.01. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Elite 45?

The theoretical hull speed of the Elite 45 is 8.05 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Elite 45 weigh?

The Elite 45 has a displacement of 22,000.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 45.92 ft.

Who designed the Elite 45?

The Elite 45 was designed by Ron Holland, first built in 1986.