Durbeck 46 (D-46) Information, Review, Specs

The Durbeck 46 was introduced in 1974, a mere year after Durbeck's Inc. was founded by Win Durbeck. This timing suggests the D-46 was either the inaugural or one of the very first models to emerge from the company, immediately setting the tone for their focus on substantial, ocean-going sailboats. Naval architect Stephen R. Seaton, responsible for the design, created the Durbeck 46 with the explicit goal of producing a "classic all ocean cruiser."

Durbeck's Inc. quickly earned a reputation for its robust manufacturing ethos, emphasizing "heavily built" and "solid fiberglass" vessels designed for "bluewater capabilities." This commitment to durability is evident in the D-46's construction. Throughout its production run, which lasted until the company's closure in 1990, the Durbeck 46 was offered with several different deck configurations and interior layouts. Notably, it was available with various rig types, including cutter, ketch, or schooner, providing flexibility to suit different sailing preferences. The cutter rig, for instance, is well-suited for offshore sailing as it breaks the sail area into smaller, more manageable sails.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Durbeck 46 is known for its solid sailing characteristics, reflecting its heavy displacement design. With a displacement of 35,000 pounds and a waterline length of 35.16 feet, its Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 360 classifies it as a very heavy, traditional cruiser, built to handle challenging conditions. Its Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of around 18.35 suggests good performance in lighter air for a vessel of its weight class, meaning it's not sluggish despite its robust build. The Ballast to Displacement ratio, at approximately 34.3%, indicates a stable but moderately stiff boat that can stand up to wind effectively, though perhaps not as aggressively as a dedicated racing yacht.

Owners describe the Durbeck 46 as a "good performer" for a heavy bluewater cruising boat, highlighting its reasonable stability and stiffness, alongside an excellent righting capability. The full keel design contributes to its tracking ability and comfortable motion in a seaway. Anecdotal reports suggest the boat is "easy to handle" and performs well even in stronger winds, with owners noting that "above 20 knots, pull in the genny and maybe a little main and still run hull" speed of 7.95 knots.

Accommodations and Layout

The Durbeck 46, designed as a comfortable cruising platform, offered flexibility in its interior arrangements. Given the "several different deck configurations and layouts" available, the interior could vary significantly between individual boats. A common configuration found on the Durbeck 46 is a center cockpit design, which often facilitates a three-stateroom layout. This arrangement typically provides excellent accommodations for a couple, with additional space for friends or family. One notable layout, designated as "Layout B" on some "Great Cabin Ketch" models, features a large centerline master berth aft, complemented by bunks in the forward cabin. Owners often praise the quality of the custom-built interior, frequently featuring good quality teak joinery and finish. The boat is equipped with a substantial water capacity of 160 gallons, supporting extended voyages.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Durbeck 46 consistently laud its robust construction and offshore capabilities. They frequently describe it as a "heavily built ocean going cruising yacht" known for its solid fiberglass hull. The boat is praised for being dependable for extended voyages and for providing a comfortable motion in a seaway. Its ease of handling, especially for a vessel of its size and weight, is also a commonly cited strength. The Durbeck 46's ability to stand up to wind and its excellent righting capability are also points of positive feedback from those who have sailed her extensively. While specific recurring issues are not widely documented across general forums, some owners have undertaken significant refits, such as rewiring and plumbing replacement, which is common for vessels of this vintage. The enduring presence of Durbeck 46 models on the used market is a testament to their lasting appeal and the quality of their original construction.