Hunter 45 CC Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Hunter 45 CC began production in 2005, continuing Hunter Marine's tradition of building cruising sailboats. The design was a collaborative effort by Glenn Henderson and the Hunter Design Group, incorporating trademarks like the B&R rig and integrated cockpit arch. This design team aimed to evolve Hunter's center-cockpit offerings, focusing on maximizing interior volume and creating a boat that was both comfortable and easy to sail. The builder, Hunter Marine, had a long-standing ethos, refined since its founding in 1973 by Warren Luhrs, of applying efficient production methods from powerboat building to the sailboat industry. Hunter became known for shifting from purely racing boats to comfortable cruising designs, integrating innovations derived from Warren Luhrs' own single-handed ocean racing experiences, such as the distinctive B&R rig. There is no information to suggest significant variations like MkI or MkII during its production run, however, the model is part of a family of sailboats that includes the Hunter 45 DS, first built around the same time.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Hunter 45 CC is characterized by a design that balances performance with comfortable cruising. With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 16.52, she is considered a moderate performer, meaning she will perform adequately in light winds but truly shine in a breeze, emphasizing comfortable passage-making over high-speed racing. Her ballast to displacement ratio (B/D) of around 0.32 suggests a reasonable level of stability, allowing her to stand up to wind effectively for a modern cruiser, though not as stiff as some heavier-ballasted offshore designs. The displacement to length ratio (D/L) of approximately 170.2 indicates a relatively light displacement for its length, contributing to a livelier performance profile while still providing the robust feel expected of a cruising yacht.

Anecdotal reports suggest that the Hunter 45 CC is designed for easy handling. Owners appreciate features like the lower-slung coach roof and the standard Furlex roller furling system for the 110% jib, which simplifies sail management. The center cockpit design also facilitates easy maneuvers, particularly beneficial for long voyages. While some discussions touch on its suitability for offshore passages, many owners find it capable for coastal cruising and even extended trips, provided weather is monitored and appropriate caution exercised.

Accommodations and Layout

The Hunter 45 CC excels in offering spacious and privacy-oriented accommodations, a hallmark of center-cockpit designs. The interior boasts an impressive headroom of 6.79 feet (2.07 meters), providing a very open and airy feel below deck. Owners consistently praise its comfortable and well-appointed living spaces, which are ideal for extended stays aboard.

Typical layouts feature a substantial aft master cabin, often described with a large double berth (e.g., 1.85m bed), offering privacy and comfort, especially for couples. There is usually a spacious main salon, often with a U-shaped settee and a dining table, providing ample seating for entertaining. The galley is well-equipped, often located between the salon and the aft cabin, offering functional space for meal preparation. Forward, there is typically another cabin, often a V-berth, which can serve as a guest cabin or additional storage. The finish quality generally includes wooden paneling, contributing to a warm and traditional aesthetic. Descriptions from reviews and walkthroughs highlight a spotless interior, good ventilation, and thoughtful use of space for storage throughout.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Hunter 45 CC generally express satisfaction with their vessels, often praising its comfort, ease of handling, and suitability for cruising. Many consider it a "great value in an affordable, easy-to-sail model". The spacious accommodations and the privacy afforded by the center cockpit layout are consistently highlighted as major strengths, making it a popular choice for liveaboards or couples undertaking long cruises.

Common maintenance issues or areas of concern mentioned by owners include potential problems with the original deck fittings developing leaks, requiring re-bedding. Some owners have also reported issues with the factory-installed windlass, specifically the SL Sprint Atlantis 600, citing insufficient depth in the anchor locker for the chain. While some owners have made modifications to the heads or other systems to suit their preferences, these are often seen as typical adjustments for any boat. Despite these minor points, many owners confirm they would purchase the boat again, underscoring its overall appeal and functionality as a comfortable cruising platform.