Avance 245 Information, Review, Specs

Peter Norlin's influence is central to the Avance 245's identity, reflecting his renowned ability to create yachts that "always did what it said on the Carton"—a hallmark of predictable and pleasing performance. Paired with Avance's commitment to "superb Finnish craftsmanship," the 245 emerged as a reliable and enjoyable vessel for a wide range of sailors.

History and Design

The story of the Avance 245 begins in 1972, marking the inaugural collaboration between Avance Yachts Ltd. and the acclaimed naval architect Peter Norlin. Produced by AB Oja Batar, this model initiated Avance's most prolific period, which spanned from the early 1970s through the late 1980s. Peter Norlin's design philosophy, often summarized by the saying "the eye also sails along," focused on creating yachts that were not only aesthetically pleasing with elegant lines but also performed exceptionally well and offered comfortable living spaces. This ethos was deeply embedded in the Avance 245, conceived as a vessel capable of both spirited sailing and relaxed family cruising. The builder, Öja Båtar AB, was known for bringing these innovative designs to life using fiberglass, a material that afforded both durability and efficient production during this era. While many sailboat models undergo significant variations during their production runs, there is no readily available information indicating distinct MkI or MkII versions, or notable rig variations for the Avance 245.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Measuring just over 24.5 feet in length overall with a waterline of nearly 20 feet, the Avance 245 is designed for responsive and enjoyable sailing. Given its size, traditional performance ratios are less directly applicable for qualitative assessment; instead, its design characteristics offer a clearer picture. With a displacement of 3,858 pounds and a substantial ballast of 1,874 pounds, the Avance 245 features a relatively high ballast-to-displacement ratio, suggesting good inherent stability and the ability to stand up to a breeze.

The boat's fractional sloop rig, combined with a fin keel and a transom-hung rudder, contributes to its reputation for being well-sailing and easy to handle. Owners and reviewers often describe the Avance 245 as a lively and responsive boat, making it a suitable choice for both experienced sailors seeking a spirited ride and beginners looking for a forgiving platform to learn on. Its design allows for nimble maneuverability, which is particularly beneficial in coastal waters and during close-quarters sailing.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its compact size, the Avance 245 is thoughtfully laid out to maximize interior volume for cruising comfort. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the interior typically features a functional arrangement suitable for weekend trips or short coastal voyages. Upon descending into the cabin, a longitudinal sofa is generally found to port in the salon, providing seating and potentially serving as a single berth. Forward of the main salon, between it and the forecabin, a dedicated toilet room is commonly integrated, offering essential privacy. The forecabin typically houses a V-berth arrangement, providing sleeping accommodations for two.

The finish quality and use of materials, consistent with Avance Yachts' reputation for "superb Finnish craftsmanship," likely involved a blend of fiberglass surfaces with warm wood trim, typical of quality European boats of its era. Storage would be modest but adequate for a boat of this size, with lockers and shelves integrated into the design. Ventilation, though not explicitly detailed in every review, would typically involve a forward hatch and possibly a companionway dodger for airflow.