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Sailboat Specifications

Lancer 45

Masthead Sloop · Fin With Rudder On Skeg

Designed by Herb David · Built by Lancer Yachts (Usa) · First built 1981

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LOA 45.00 ft  ·  Beam 13.75 ft  ·  Displacement 24,000.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 907.00 ft²  ·  Masthead Sloop  ·  Fin With Rudder On Skeg
About the Lancer 45 Sailboat

Built from 1981 to 1985 by Lancer Yachts, this 45-footer represents a solid example of early 1980s American cruising yacht design under the guidance of designer Herb David. With its moderate displacement of 24,000 pounds and traditional fin keel with rudder on skeg configuration, the Lancer 45 strikes a balance between performance and seaworthiness that appeals to serious coastal and offshore cruisers. The masthead sloop rig carries 907 square feet of sail area, providing adequate power while maintaining manageable sail handling for a couple or small crew. Her 37.25-foot waterline length delivers a respectable hull speed of 8.18 knots, while the comfortable 13.75-foot beam offers generous interior volume typical of cruising designs from this era. Notable strengths include the boat's reassuring capsize screening value of 1.91 and comfort ratio of 28.57, indicating good stability characteristics and motion at sea. The fiberglass construction has proven durable over the decades, though prospective buyers should pay attention to the typical maintenance issues associated with boats approaching their fifth decade. The Lancer 45 suits cruising sailors seeking a proven platform for extended coastal voyaging or offshore passages.

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Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 45.00 ft / 13.72 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 37.25 ft / 11.35 m
Beam 13.75 ft / 4.19 m
Max Draft 4.90 ft / 1.49 m
Displacement 24,000.00 lb / 10,886 kg
Ballast 7,000.00 lb / 3,175 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 907.00 ft² / 84.26 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin with rudder on skeg
Rigging Type Masthead Sloop
Construction FG
Designer Herb David
Builder Lancer Yachts (USA)
First Built 1981
Last Built 1985
Owner Reviews

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Engine & Accommodations
Fuel Capacity 125 gals / 473 L
Water Capacity 225 gals / 852 L
Frequently Asked Questions

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

The Lancer 45 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 17.51. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Lancer 45's comfort ratio?

The Lancer 45 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 28.57. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Lancer 45 safe for offshore sailing?

The Lancer 45 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.91. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Lancer 45?

The theoretical hull speed of the Lancer 45 is 8.18 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Lancer 45 weigh?

The Lancer 45 has a displacement of 24,000.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 45.00 ft.

Who designed the Lancer 45?

The Lancer 45 was designed by Herb David, first built in 1981.