Freedom 45 CC Information, Review, Specs

The Freedom 45 CC began production in 1987. While Freedom Yachts, founded by Gary Hoyt, was primarily known for championing the unstayed mast and radical cat ketch rigs, the company also collaborated with designers like Gary Mull to create models with a more conventional aesthetic that still maintained the brand's performance focus. The Freedom 45 CC, specifically, is a fractional sloop featuring a freestanding rig, a hallmark of the Freedom design philosophy that prioritizes ease of handling and reduced maintenance. The vessel's hull design is based on the earlier Freedom 42, but with an extended stern, contributing to its generous volume. Notably, an aft cockpit version of the Freedom 45 was also available, offering a choice in deck layout to suit different cruising preferences.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Freedom 45 CC is engineered for comfortable and capable cruising. With a Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 14.46, the boat is not designed as a light-air speedster but rather as a steady performer. Its robust Ballast to Displacement ratio of around 0.41 (41%) indicates a stiff and stable platform, capable of standing up well to a significant amount of wind and providing a comfortable motion in a seaway. This high ratio surpasses the typical threshold for excellent stability, underscoring its blue-water cruising credentials. The Displacement to Length ratio of approximately 252.2 places the Freedom 45 CC in the medium-heavy displacement category, suggesting a solid, sea-kindly vessel rather than a lightweight racer. The design results in a hull speed of 7.86 knots. Owners and reviewers often describe the Freedom 45 CC as easily handled and well-balanced, a testament to its design for performance-conscious cruising.

Accommodations and Layout

The Freedom 45 CC's center cockpit configuration allows for a notably spacious and comfortable interior, contributing to its reputation as a high-volume cruising boat. Typically, the layout features two private cabins and two heads, often with two showers, complemented by a generously sized main salon. Forward, there is a guest cabin, commonly equipped with an en-suite head, offering privacy for visitors. The aft section, benefiting greatly from the center cockpit design, often houses a luxurious master cabin, which sometimes includes an island berth, providing ample space and comfort for extended liveaboard periods. The interior is often characterized by beautiful woodwork and a thoughtful arrangement that maximizes living space and storage, reflecting the robust and high-quality construction associated with Freedom Yachts.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Freedom 45 CC frequently praise the boat's solid construction, exceptional build quality, and comfortable motion, particularly in offshore conditions. The innovative freestanding rig is often highlighted as a significant advantage, offering unique sailing characteristics and reduced maintenance compared to traditional stayed rigs, which aligns with the "freedom" ethos of the builder. The ease of handling and balanced feel under sail are also commonly cited strengths, making the boat enjoyable for both experienced and less seasoned sailors. While specific recurring issues are not prominently detailed in available owner discussions, the existence of active online forums, such as the Freedom Yachts Owners' Forum, indicates a dedicated community that values these distinctive vessels and actively discusses their maintenance and use. Prospective owners often inquire about aspects like hull construction, reflecting a desire to understand the specifics of these unique and enduring cruisers.