Hunter 45 DS Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Hunter 45 DS emerged as part of Hunter's post-2000 design philosophy, which prioritized comfortable cruising designs without sacrificing ease of handling. Launched in 2006, the 45 DS succeeded the 44 DS, incorporating improvements such as twin wheels, a redesigned transom, updated styling, and a more spacious and reconfigured interior layout. This evolution aligned with naval architect Glenn Henderson's ongoing efforts to create Hunter designs that offered better performance while remaining easy to sail. Hunter Marine's enduring focus, rooted in founder Warren Luhrs's vision, has always been on producing affordable, quality boats that are easy to own and, crucially, easy to sail, a principle strongly reflected in the 45 DS. The distinctive B&R rig, a signature Hunter feature with swept-back spreaders and no backstay allowing for larger mainsails, is also employed on the 45 DS, contributing to its ease of handling.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Hunter 45 DS is designed as a capable cruiser, balancing sailing performance with comfort. With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 16.53, she offers moderate performance, indicating she is well-suited for comfortable cruising rather than being a high-performance racer. While some racing sailors might comment that Hunters "won't go," the 45 DS is engineered for efficient cruising, designed to get places quickly without demanding excessive effort from the crew.

Her displacement to length ratio (D/L) of approximately 170.26 suggests a relatively light displacement for her nearly 45-foot length overall, pointing to a design that aims for efficiency and a nimble feel in the water. The ballast to displacement ratio (Bal/D) of around 0.315 is on the lower side, which can translate to a softer motion in a seaway but might also suggest less initial stiffness when pressed hard by wind. However, anecdotal owner accounts suggest the boat handles well in varying conditions, including rough seas, beating nicely through waves. Glenn Henderson's design philosophy for the 45 DS also focused on improved handling in tight quarters, and the easy-handling rig, often equipped with Selden's Furlex furling gear, makes sail changes and maneuvers straightforward. Owners often report that the boat is fast, comfortable, and can be easily maneuvered, even single-handed.

Accommodations and Layout

The Hunter 45 DS is renowned for its expansive and thoughtfully designed interior, a direct benefit of its deck saloon configuration. The "DS" designation emphasizes the raised saloon, which features panoramic views and generous headroom, creating an open and airy living space. The interior typically boasts a spacious saloon with comfortable seating, often around a high-gloss dining table.

Below deck, the layout is ergonomically designed, complemented by a large and well-appointed galley equipped with amenities suitable for extended cruising. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available in primary specifications, the deck saloon design inherently maximizes vertical space. Hunter's use of a modular "liner" technique for its interiors ensures a consistent and robust finish. The 45 DS offers ample storage throughout the cabins, which is crucial for cruisers, and typically features good ventilation to enhance comfort in warmer climates.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Hunter 45 DS generally praise its comfort, ease of handling, and spacious accommodations. Many appreciate its ability to motor efficiently, sometimes even overtaking larger vessels. The boat is frequently described as well-laid out for single-handed sailing, making it accessible to a wider range of sailors.

Commonly cited strengths include the comfortable motion in a seaway, even in challenging conditions like 8-10 foot seas. The twin helm setup and large cockpit, capable of seating up to ten people, are also highly valued for both sailing and entertaining. However, some owners have noted potential issues such as the design of hidden "sumps" that feed into the bilge, requiring attention for proper cleaning and maintenance. While generally regarded as a quality product, as with any boat, routine maintenance and addressing potential age-related issues are part of ownership.