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Sailboat Specifications

Peterson 46

Cutter · Fin With Rudder On Skeg

Designed by Doug Peterson (Unauthorized) · Built by Formosa Yachts · First built 1980

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LOA 47.50 ft  ·  Beam 13.00 ft  ·  Displacement 33,300.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 878.00 ft²  ·  Cutter  ·  Fin With Rudder On Skeg
About the Peterson 46 Sailboat

Designed by the prolific Doug Peterson, the Peterson 46 carries the hallmarks of a designer celebrated for blending performance with seaworthiness. Peterson made his name in offshore racing circles during the 1970s and 1980s, and boats bearing his name tend to reflect a performance-oriented philosophy without sacrificing the practicality needed for serious bluewater passages. The Peterson 46 sits comfortably in the category of capable offshore cruiser-racer, appealing to sailors who want a boat that can be pushed hard in open water but also serve as a comfortable long-distance cruising platform. Peterson's designs typically feature clean, efficient hull lines with an emphasis on stability and upwind performance, traits that translate well to both competitive sailing and extended ocean passages. For buyers researching this model, the Peterson 46 is likely to reward those seeking a well-regarded, performance-minded offshore vessel with a credible design pedigree behind it. As with any boat of this era, a thorough survey is essential, but examples that have been well maintained tend to hold a strong reputation among knowledgeable sailors who appreciate purposeful, seaworthy design.

Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 47.50 ft / 14.48 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 40.58 ft / 12.37 m
Beam 13.00 ft / 3.96 m
Max Draft 6.30 ft / 1.92 m
Displacement 33,300.00 lb / 15,105 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 878.00 ft² / 81.57 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin with rudder on skeg
Rigging Type Cutter
Construction FG
Designer Doug Peterson (unauthorized)
Builder Formosa Yachts
First Built 1980
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Frequently Asked Questions

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

The Peterson 46 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 13.63. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Peterson 46's comfort ratio?

The Peterson 46 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 39.63. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Peterson 46 safe for offshore sailing?

The Peterson 46 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.62. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Peterson 46?

The theoretical hull speed of the Peterson 46 is 8.54 knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Peterson 46 weigh?

The Peterson 46 has a displacement of 33,300.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 47.50 ft.

Who designed the Peterson 46?

The Peterson 46 was designed by Doug Peterson (Unauthorized), first built in 1980.