Bavaria Cruiser 45 Information, Review, Specs

Constructed by Bavaria Yachts in Giebelstadt, Germany, the Cruiser 45 embodies the builder's philosophy of delivering high-quality, series-produced yachts accessible to a broad audience. Bavaria's efficient assembly-line production methods, a hallmark since the early 2000s, ensured consistent manufacturing standards and value.

History and Design

The Bavaria Cruiser 45, designated as Farr design #695, began its production run in 2009. While the precise end year varies in available records, it appears to have been produced until around 2014. This model was part of a new series of yachts that represented a significant collaboration between Bavaria Yachts, Farr Yacht Design, and BMW DesignworksUSA. The primary design goal was to seamlessly blend comfort with functionality, aiming to provide a boat that offered both an enjoyable sailing experience and ample, comfortable living spaces.

During this era, Bavaria Yachts was known for its "German engineering expertise, precision, and quality," leveraging innovative serial production techniques. The company's focus was on creating practical, robust, and reliable vessels. A notable variation offered for the Cruiser 45 was an optional deep keel, measuring 6.89 feet (2.1 meters), compared to the standard 5.68-foot draft, providing options for different sailing preferences and cruising grounds.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a total calculated sail area of 1046.48 square feet and a displacement of 27,778 pounds, the Bavaria Cruiser 45 exhibits a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 18.18. This figure suggests a moderately powered cruiser, indicating she should perform adequately in lighter winds while remaining manageable as conditions stiffen.

The boat's displacement to length ratio (D/L) of around 170.25 categorizes her as a moderately heavy cruiser. While not a lightweight racer, this suggests a solid, comfortable motion in a seaway, prioritizing stability and comfort over outright speed. The estimated ballast of 6,834 pounds contributes to a ballast to displacement ratio of approximately 0.246. While this ratio is on the lower side for ultimate stiffness, the broad beam of 14.27 feet and twin rudders likely contribute significantly to her initial stability and control.

Reviewers have generally described the Cruiser 45 as an enjoyable boat to sail, easy to handle, and offering creditable performance, although some note it might be slightly lacking in immediate response compared to more performance-oriented designs. She is praised for her good sailing capabilities in various weather conditions and is fundamentally designed for both performance and comfort. The standard 56 HP Volvo Penta D2-55 engine provides ample power for motoring, with reports of achieving speeds around 7.8 knots, nearing her theoretical hull speed of 8.66 knots [8,.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Bavaria Cruiser 45 is a key highlight, emphasizing spaciousness and comfort, reflecting the designer's goal of blending functionality with comfortable living. The collaboration with BMW DesignworksUSA aimed to create a light and airy ambiance within the cabins, achieved through multiple large windows.

The layout typically features four cabins, offering ample space for larger families or charter groups, with a maximum sleeping capacity of up to nine persons. There are also mentions of three-cabin configurations, indicating flexibility in interior arrangements. The generous beam of 14.27 feet allows for a voluminous interior, providing comfortable settees around the dinette table in the salon, capable of seating up to six people. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the overall design prioritizes a feeling of openness. The interior finish generally reflects Bavaria's practical approach, combining functional materials with comfortable styling. Standard amenities often include a well-equipped galley, multiple heads, and ample storage throughout, catering to extended cruising needs.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners generally regard the Bavaria Cruiser 45 as a well-built and reliable vessel, offering a good balance of sailing performance and liveaboard comfort. Reviews suggest a positive overall experience with the yacht, reflected in an average rating of 7.6 based on several owner reviews. The emphasis on robust construction and practical design, consistent with Bavaria's reputation for "German engineering," is often appreciated. While specific strengths and weaknesses are not extensively detailed in broad owner forums, the collective sentiment points towards a boat that fulfills its cruising purpose effectively, providing a comfortable and manageable platform for sailing enthusiasts.