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Sailboat Specifications

Oyster 46

Staysail Ketch · Fin With Rudder On Skeg

Designed by Holman & Pye · Built by Oyster Marine Ltd. (Uk) · First built 1982

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LOA 46.00 ft  ·  Beam 14.00 ft  ·  Displacement 31,980.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 980.00 ft²  ·  Staysail Ketch  ·  Fin With Rudder On Skeg
About the Oyster 46 Sailboat

Built from 1982 to 1990 by the renowned British yard Oyster Marine, this 46-footer represents the craftsmanship and seaworthiness that established Oyster's legendary reputation among serious cruising sailors. Designed by the prestigious naval architecture firm Holman & Pye, only 25 hulls were produced, making this model relatively rare in today's market. The Oyster 46's staysail ketch rig configuration offers exceptional versatility for long-distance cruising, providing multiple sail plan options and excellent balance in varying conditions. With a comfort ratio of 35.44 and substantial displacement of 31,980 pounds, this yacht delivers the stable, sea-kindly motion that blue water cruisers demand. The generous ballast-to-displacement ratio ensures impressive stability offshore. Her fin keel with rudder on skeg provides responsive handling while maintaining the directional stability crucial for extended passages. The fiberglass construction meets Oyster's exacting standards for durability and longevity. With a theoretical hull speed of 8.43 knots and moderate sail area to displacement ratio of 15.63, she strikes an ideal balance between performance and comfort. This design epitomizes the classic British approach to serious cruising yachts—prioritizing seaworthiness, comfort, and reliability over pure speed.

Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 46.00 ft / 14.02 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 39.58 ft / 12.06 m
Beam 14.00 ft / 4.27 m
Max Draft 6.50 ft / 1.98 m
Displacement 31,980.00 lb / 14,506 kg
Ballast 12,897.00 lb / 5,850 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 980.00 ft² / 91.04 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin with rudder on skeg
Rigging Type Staysail Ketch
Construction FG
Designer Holman & Pye
Builder Oyster Marine Ltd. (UK)
First Built 1982
Last Built 1990
Number Built 25
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Engine & Accommodations
Engine Make Perkins
Engine Model M90
Engine Type Diesel
Horsepower 81
Fuel Capacity 120 gals / 454 L
Water Capacity 144 gals / 545 L
Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Oyster 46's sail area to displacement ratio?

The Oyster 46 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 15.63. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Oyster 46's comfort ratio?

The Oyster 46 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 35.44. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Oyster 46 safe for offshore sailing?

The Oyster 46 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.77. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Oyster 46?

The theoretical hull speed of the Oyster 46 is 8.43 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Oyster 46 weigh?

The Oyster 46 has a displacement of 31,980.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 46.00 ft.

Who designed the Oyster 46?

The Oyster 46 was designed by Holman & Pye, first built in 1982.