Herreshoff 45 Cat Ketch Information, Review, Specs

The Herreshoff 45 Cat Ketch emerged in the latter part of the Cat Ketch Corporation's active building period, which spanned roughly from 1982 to 1986. Founded by John Newton, with production initially based in Honduras, the company became synonymous with Halsey Herreshoff's unique cat-ketch designs. Herreshoff, a third-generation naval architect, envisioned vessels that were "simple yet rewarding to sail," prioritizing ease of use with fewer winches than more complex rigs.

Constructed from solid fiberglass for both its hull and deck, the Herreshoff 45 represented a modern approach to boatbuilding for its era. While some earlier models by Cat Ketch Corp. featured laminated wooden spars, the Herreshoff 45, along with other later cat-ketches from the builder, incorporated advanced materials like fiberglass and carbon fiber in their rigging. The design emphasized open interior layouts and a generally superior standard of woodwork, contributing to the boat's reputation for good looks and thoughtful touches., 10]

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a reported sail area of 830 square feet and a displacement of 18,500 pounds, the Herreshoff 45 Cat Ketch exhibits a Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 19.06. This indicates a relatively powerful sail plan for its displacement, suggesting good performance, particularly in lighter air conditions. The Ballast to Displacement ratio, at around 0.432, points to a stiff and stable hull capable of standing up to a significant breeze. Further emphasizing its performance orientation, the Displacement to Length ratio of approximately 129.05 places it in a category of lighter, more easily driven cruising yachts.

The boat's 40-foot waterline contributes to a theoretical hull speed of 8.47 knots. Owners of Herreshoff cat-ketches often praise their easy handling characteristics, describing them as sailing "like a dream," attributed to the inherent simplicity of the unstayed cat-ketch rig which typically requires fewer winches., 10, 14] While generally lauded for their comfortable motion and fast passages, some observations suggest that Herreshoff cat-ketches might not be exceptionally weatherly in all conditions. The fin keel and skeg-hung rudder configuration provide responsive steering and good directional stability.

Accommodations and Layout

The Herreshoff 45 Cat Ketch, in line with the builder's design philosophy, features an emphasis on open and airy interior layouts. While specific detailed floor plans for the 45 are not readily available in public records, the general approach for Cat Ketch Corporation boats, exemplified by the Herreshoff 31, often included an open saloon and forecabin area, with the head and galley positioned aft., 10]

Interiors were characterized by "elegant simplicity" and "generally superior woodwork," contributing to a warm and inviting atmosphere below deck., 10] Details from other Herreshoff Cat Ketch models suggest attention to finish, with features like varnished companionway stairs common. These designs aimed to maximize livable space and comfort for extended cruising, providing thoughtful touches and ample storage typical of well-designed cruising auxiliaries.