US 46 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The genesis of the US 46 can be traced back to 1968, with production continuing until around 1976. Although some sources suggest it was a stretched version of the US 41, it stands as a distinct design by William H. Tripp Jr.. Grampian Marine, founded in 1962, quickly established itself as a pioneer in fiberglass boat construction in Canada, with an emphasis on durable, practical, and value-oriented vessels. The US 46 fit squarely within this philosophy, utilizing solid fiberglass for both hull and deck construction, a testament to the builder's commitment to robust yachts in that era. A notable and unique feature offered as an option for the Grampian 46 was a tandem centerboard system.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of 46 feet and a waterline length of 33 feet, the US 46 carries a substantial displacement of 25,000 lbs. This considerable weight, combined with its design characteristics, positions it as a heavy displacement cruiser. Its Displacement to Length ratio, calculated at approximately 695.6, is indicative of a vessel designed for comfortable motion in a seaway rather than outright speed. The ballast of 9,000 lbs, primarily lead, contributes to a ballast-to-displacement ratio of 0.36, suggesting good stability for an offshore cruiser.

The sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 13.89 suggests that while the US 46 is capable, it is not a light-air flyer and will likely perform best in moderate to heavy winds, offering a powerful and steady ride. Rigged as a masthead yawl, this configuration provides a versatile sail plan, allowing for easier balance and reefing options in varying conditions. The combination of a fixed keel and a retractable centerboard (with a minimum draft of 5.16 ft and a maximum draft of 10.33 ft) offers the flexibility to navigate shallower waters while still providing significant lateral resistance for upwind performance when the board is deployed.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific detailed interior layouts for the US 46 are not extensively documented in public records, Grampian Marine was generally known for producing boats with "livable interiors" and "robust construction". Given its substantial length and beam of 12 feet, the US 46 would have offered considerable interior volume for its time, likely featuring a traditional layout expected in a large cruising yacht of the late 1960s and early 1970s. This would typically include ample space for a V-berth forward, a main salon area, a galley, and navigation station, with one or more private cabins. The construction would have featured durable materials, often blending fiberglass surfaces with wood trim, consistent with Grampian's practical approach to boat building.