Sun Kiss 45 (Jeanneau) Information, Review, Specs

The Sun Kiss 45 began production in 1983, emerging from an era when Jeanneau, then under the ownership of United States-based Bangor Punta for a period, was firmly establishing itself as a significant force in sailboat manufacturing, largely due to its embrace of fiberglass technology and collaboration with renowned designers. Philippe Briand, an iconic figure for Jeanneau since 1977, was the designer behind the Sun Kiss 45. Jeanneau's design philosophy during this time, and indeed throughout its history, centered on combining pure, modern lines with robust construction and intelligent layouts that prioritize comfort and enjoyment on the water for the cruising market. The Sun Kiss 45 shares its hull design with the Espace 1300, indicating a lineage of proven naval architecture. While primarily offered with a fin keel and spade rudder, keel/centerboard versions were also available, providing options for varied cruising grounds.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Sun Kiss 45 is characterized by a moderate sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 15.02, suggesting she is a capable cruiser designed for comfort and stability rather than pure light-air speed. Her ballast to displacement ratio, at around 40.7%, indicates a stiff and stable platform, capable of standing up well to a breeze and providing a comfortable motion in a seaway. With a displacement to length ratio of approximately 219.4, she falls into the category of a moderately heavy displacement cruiser, balancing seaworthiness with respectable performance. Owners frequently describe the Sun Kiss 45 as a sailboat with notable energy and reactivity under sail, offering excellent performance for its class. The masthead sloop rig, combined with her fin keel and spade rudder, contributes to her balanced handling and responsiveness.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific interior headroom is not detailed in the provided data, the Jeanneau Sun Kiss 45 is consistently praised for its spacious interior, a hallmark of Jeanneau's design philosophy of creating "liveable boats." Owners' versions of the boat further highlight the emphasis on comfortable living spaces below deck. Typically, the layout would feature a traditional arrangement conducive to extended cruising, including a V-berth forward, a main salon, a well-appointed galley, and private cabins, often with quarter berths aft. The interior finish generally reflects the solid construction practices of Jeanneau during the 1980s, combining functional design with quality materials. The ample beam of 14.42 feet contributes significantly to the feeling of volume and comfort below.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Jeanneau Sun Kiss 45 frequently commend its solid construction, a characteristic often associated with boats built before 1990. The yacht is often described as a "safe bet" due to its robust build, providing a sense of security and reliability for those undertaking coastal or offshore passages. While specific common problems are not widely detailed, like any vessel of its age, the Sun Kiss 45 may require ongoing maintenance and occasional upgrades to its systems and fittings to remain in prime condition. Overall, owners generally appreciate its spaciousness, seaworthiness, and dependable sailing characteristics, making it a beloved choice for long-term cruising.