Columbia 45 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Production of the Columbia 45 commenced in 1971 and continued until 1976, during a period when Columbia Yachts was a subsidiary of the Whittaker Corporation, a conglomerate that had acquired the builder in 1967. This era saw Columbia known for its commitment to fiberglass construction, delivering classic designs with comfortable interiors. The Columbia 45 shared its hull with the earlier Columbia 43, indicating a proven and successful design foundation.

The design philosophy behind the Columbia 45, as conceived by William H. Tripp Jr., focused on creating a cruising boat rather than one manipulated for racing rules, leading to a design that prioritizes comfort and offshore capability. The boat was offered with both full keel and shoal draft versions, providing options for various cruising grounds. Furthermore, both sloop and ketch rigs were available, with the ketch rig offering approximately 10% more sail area. This versatility allowed owners to choose a configuration best suited to their sailing preferences.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a displacement of 25,000 lbs and a length overall of 45.25 feet, the Columbia 45 is a substantial vessel. Its displacement-to-length ratio of approximately 308 suggests it falls into the heavier, more traditional cruiser category, indicating a comfortable motion in a seaway rather than a light, high-performance sailing experience. This robust build contributes to its reputation as a strong blue water boat.

The sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 14.5 indicates that the Columbia 45 is not designed for high-performance sailing in light airs but is more suited to moderate to stronger winds. It suggests a boat that is relatively easily driven once the wind picks up, offering a stable and predictable ride. The ballast to displacement ratio of 0.41 indicates good initial stability, allowing the boat to stand up well to a breeze and providing a reassuringly stiff platform. Owners often describe the Columbia 45 as a surprisingly good sailor for a motorsailer, benefiting from its cruising-oriented design. While not a racer, its handling is generally described as balanced and predictable, well-suited for long passages.

Accommodations and Layout

The Columbia 45 was designed with a focus on interior volume and comfort, making it a popular choice for live-aboards. As a center-cockpit vessel, it typically features a spacious aft cabin, offering a private owner's suite. The main salon is expansive, often incorporating a galley and dining area. Grounded search reveals typical interior arrangements include a V-berth forward, a head, a well-appointed salon, a U-shaped galley, and a large owner's aft cabin, often with its own private head. The design prioritizes comfort and livability over outright sailing performance, providing ample storage and good ventilation for extended periods on board. The use of fiberglass for the hull and deck allows for a robust and easily maintained structure, with interior finishes varying but generally reflecting the popular aesthetic of the 1970s, often incorporating wood trim to add warmth and a traditional yacht feel. Diagrams from the period confirm a focus on maximizing usable interior space.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners frequently praise the Columbia 45 for its solid construction and seaworthiness, often considering it a capable blue water cruiser. Its robust build quality provides a sense of security, which is highly valued by those planning extended voyages. The spacious interior, particularly the generous aft cabin, is consistently highlighted as a major strength, contributing to its suitability as a live-aboard vessel. Many owners appreciate its comfortable motion in a seaway, a testament to its heavy displacement and stable design.

However, as with any vessel of its age, some common maintenance considerations are noted by owners. Potential issues include aging original deck fittings, which may require re-bedding to prevent leaks. The cast iron keel structure is another area owners advise careful surveying for potential issues. Despite these age-related considerations, the Columbia 45 maintains a loyal following among those who value its comfort, space, and offshore capabilities.