Allures 45 Information, Review, Specs

The Allures 45 commenced production in 2011, emerging from the shipyard of Allures Yachting, which was founded in 2003 with a clear vision for robust, blue-water cruising vessels. The design of the Allures 45 is a collaborative effort, primarily attributed to the renowned naval architects Berret-Racoupeau, with Franck Darnet contributing to the interior aesthetics. Olivier Racoupeau, a master in the design of aluminum centerboarders with twin rudders, shaped the hull lines to align with Allures' ethos of safety, comfort, and performance for short-handed crews.

Allures Yachting's manufacturing philosophy during this era centered on building hulls entirely from aluminum, a material chosen for its exceptional strength, durability, and resistance to impact, making their yachts exceptionally well-suited for demanding long-distance voyages. Complementing the robust aluminum hull, Allures yachts typically feature a composite deck and superstructure, optimizing weight distribution and enhancing interior volume. The defining characteristic of the 45, like other Allures models, is its innovative centerboard design, which allows for a significantly reduced draft for access to shallow anchorages while ensuring excellent stability offshore when fully deployed. The Allures 45 was offered in at least three different layouts to cater to varying owner preferences. While the Allures 45.9 later evolved from this model, the original Allures 45 laid the groundwork for many of the performance and comfort attributes seen in subsequent designs.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Allures 45 is designed as a performance cruiser, balancing speed with the stability and safety required for offshore passages. With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 19.54, she exhibits good potential for performance in lighter wind conditions, allowing her to maintain momentum effectively. Her ballast to displacement ratio (B/D) of around 0.37, combined with the integral ballast and a pivoting aluminum centerboard, contributes to a respectable level of stiffness and stability, enabling the yacht to stand up well to wind pressure.

Interpreting her displacement of 26,014 lbs over a waterline length (LWL) of 40 feet 6 inches (12.35m), her displacement to length ratio (D/L) of approximately 174.8 places her in the lighter, more performance-oriented category for a cruising yacht of her size, despite her robust construction. This suggests a yacht that is not only sturdy but also capable of agile and responsive sailing. Reviews indicate that the Allures 45 handles with the pedigree of a true performance cruiser, showing good control and reduced weather helm, particularly in breeze. Her twin rudders further enhance steering control and responsiveness, especially at higher speeds and in varied sea states. The design also emphasizes ease of handling for a small crew, contributing to a comfortable and manageable sailing experience.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific interior details can vary by individual boat and the choices made by the original owner, the Allures 45 was designed with a strong emphasis on comfort and functionality for long-distance cruising. The yacht offered multiple interior layout options, typically featuring a spacious forward double stateroom and a double aft cabin, providing comfortable accommodations for a cruising couple or a family. The interior design, by Franck Darnet, is characterized by a modern and functional aesthetic, prioritizing comfort both while underway and at anchor.

The general finish quality in Allures yachts, including the 45, is typically robust and practical, reflecting their blue-water cruising intent, often incorporating quality materials that balance durability with a pleasant living environment. Ample storage is a key consideration for long voyages, and Allures designs generally provide generous locker and stowage spaces throughout the cabins and salon. While maximum headroom details are not always specified, the design aims to offer comfortable standing room where needed, and good ventilation is provided through deck hatches and portlights, essential for livability in diverse climates. The design incorporates large tankage for fuel and water, enhancing the yacht's autonomy for extended periods at sea.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Allures 45 consistently praise its robust aluminum construction and its inherent capability for extensive world cruising. The ability of the yacht to handle diverse conditions, including its unique capacity to "crawl up creeks and dry out or cruise offshore" due to its variable draft centerboard, is frequently highlighted as a significant strength. Owners appreciate the self-sufficiency afforded by the yacht's design, which typically includes large tank capacities for fuel and water, often complemented by provisions for solar panels and wind generators.

While comprehensive forums dedicated solely to the Allures 45 are less common than for some mass-produced boats, discussions among owners often touch on the yacht's reliable performance and the peace of mind that comes with its sturdy build. The design is well-regarded for its suitability for short-handed sailing, with owners noting its ease of handling and control in various conditions. Common issues are rarely reported as systemic design flaws, with owner discussions often revolving around routine maintenance or upgrades typical for a yacht of its age and usage profile, such as re-bedding original deck fittings or specific companionway cover designs. The Allures community, supported by the Grand Large Yacht Group, is generally perceived as collaborative, providing a network of support for those undertaking serious voyages.