Buccaneer 245 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Buccaneer 245 entered production in 1975, a time when Bayliner, traditionally a powerboat manufacturer, had strategically diversified into sailboats under the Buccaneer Yachts and US Yachts brands, 4, 6, 8]. This shift, occurring around 1970, was partly a response to the fuel crisis of the early 1970s, making sailboats an attractive alternative for many consumers. The company's production of sailboats, including the Buccaneer 245, spanned roughly a decade before they divested their sailboat division in 1979.

Central to the Buccaneer 245's heritage is its hull design, which, along with other Buccaneer models like the 200, 210, and 240, is said to have been "splashed" from a mold originating from the Alan Payne-designed Columbia T-23. Australian maritime architect Alan Payne designed the Columbia T-23, which was first built in 1973 as a trailerable cruiser. This lineage points to a design intended for practicality and ease of use. Bayliner's overarching philosophy for its sailboats prioritized interior amenities and comfortable, family-friendly layouts over pure sailing performance, aiming to provide high-quality, affordable boats that offered exceptional value, 8]. The Buccaneer 245 is distinguished as the diesel inboard version of the Buccaneer 240, sharing its hull and general cruising intent.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a small cruiser, the Buccaneer 245, with its long keel and transom-hung rudder, offers a predictable and stable sailing experience. The long keel contributes significantly to directional stability, helping the boat track well on a course, particularly beneficial for cruising. While providing a steady ride, a long keel typically translates to less nimble handling compared to fin-keel designs, making tacks and gybes slower and wider. The transom-hung rudder, common on boats of this size, provides direct steering control. Designed as a masthead sloop, the rig is straightforward and capable for coastal cruising. With a hull speed of approximately 6.04 knots, she is designed for comfortable passages rather than high-performance racing.

Accommodations and Layout

Bayliner's emphasis on interior amenities for its sailboat line is evident in the Buccaneer 245, 8]. While specific detailed interior layouts are not extensively documented for the 245, it is understood to follow a practical and comfortable arrangement typical of small cruisers of its era, similar to its sibling, the Buccaneer 240. These boats generally featured a compact but functional layout designed to accommodate a small family or crew for weekend trips and coastal excursions. The interior would likely include a V-berth forward, a compact galley area, a small salon with settees that may convert to berths, and a marine head. Given Bayliner's focus on value, the finish would have been functional and durable, often utilizing fiberglass with wood trim. Though specific headroom figures are not available, the design would aim to maximize usable space below deck for its length.