Bavaria 46 Cruiser (2005-2009) Information, Review, Specs

The Bavaria 46 Cruiser emerged from Bavaria Yachts' shipyards during a period when the builder was solidifying its reputation for high-quality, series-produced yachts designed to be accessible to a broader audience. Leveraging efficient assembly-line production methods, a hallmark of Bavaria's manufacturing ethos since 2000, the company was able to construct hundreds of boats annually, including the 46 Cruiser.

J&J Design, the naval architecture firm behind the 46 Cruiser, aimed to create a vessel that prioritized ample living space, comfort, luxury, and straightforward handling. This aligned perfectly with Bavaria's core philosophy of combining practical functionality with comfortable onboard living and reliable performance. The robust fiberglass hull and deck construction, typical of Bavaria's commitment to quality, ensured durability. While the specific production run from 2005-2009 focused on this iteration of the 46 Cruiser, Bavaria has continued to evolve its Cruiser line, with later models like the C46 designed by Cossutti Yacht Design representing distinct developments in the brand's offerings.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Bavaria 46 Cruiser is designed as a performance-oriented cruiser, a characteristic reflected in its key performance ratios. With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 24.16, the vessel exhibits a healthy sail plan, suggesting good light-air performance and the ability to maintain respectable speeds even in moderate conditions. Her displacement to length ratio (D/L) of around 169.0 places her in the lighter end of the cruising boat spectrum for her size, contributing to her agility and speed potential.

Despite a moderate ballast to displacement ratio (B/D) of approximately 0.30, indicating a balanced approach to stability rather than extreme stiffness, owners and reviewers often describe the Bavaria 46 Cruiser as sailing well and achieving a good turn of speed. The design incorporates a bulb keel and a spade rudder, features that contribute to responsive handling and directional stability. Her length overall of just over 46 feet and a waterline length of 40 feet, coupled with her design parameters, allow her to achieve a theoretical hull speed of about 8.47 knots, making her an enjoyable and capable vessel for coastal cruising and longer passages.

Accommodations and Layout

The Bavaria 46 Cruiser is renowned for its voluminous interior, offering a significant amount of living space, comfort, and a touch of luxury for its class. The design focuses on maximizing comfort and functionality below deck, typically featuring three or four cabin layouts to accommodate various owner needs, from large families to charter operations.

Owners can expect a well-appointed saloon that often includes innovative features such as a "saloon island" for flexible space utilization. The galley area is generally well-equipped, frequently featuring stainless steel refrigeration and high-quality worktops, reflecting Bavaria's attention to detail in creating practical and comfortable living environments. The forward owner's cabin is often noted for its generous proportions, providing a comfortable retreat. Throughout the interior, Bavaria's commitment to user-friendly designs and "clever details" ensures ample storage, good ventilation, and a finish quality that balances durability with a pleasant aesthetic, making the 46 Cruiser a highly livable yacht., 19]