Fastnet 45 (LE Compte ) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Production of the Fastnet 45 commenced in 1968, marking a period of significant growth and modernization for LeComte-Holland. The company, founded by Adolf “Dolf” LeComte, had fully embraced fiberglass construction in 1961 and opened a modern building facility in Vianen, Netherlands, the same year the Fastnet 45 entered production. LeComte Yachts was renowned for its unwavering commitment to quality, employing solid-glass hulls and Airex-cored decks, complemented by yacht-quality varnished interiors.

The design by Alfred E. Luders aimed for a "significantly more speedy hull design" for its era, balancing performance with the demands of comfortable cruising. The Fastnet 45 was offered with variations, including a choice between a flush deck or a more traditional extended coachroof, and could be rigged as either a sloop or a yawl, providing options for different sailing preferences. Luders' collaboration with LeComte resulted in a vessel built to the highest standards for both ocean racing and extended voyaging.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The LeComte Fastnet 45 exhibits characteristics typical of a well-built, heavy displacement cruiser, known for its stability and comfortable motion at sea. With a calculated Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 15.92, she offers moderate performance, favoring steady progress in a range of conditions over extreme light-air speed. Her Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of roughly 0.36 indicates a good level of stiffness, allowing her to stand up to a breeze with confidence.

The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 313.6 firmly places the Fastnet 45 in the heavy displacement category, suggesting a powerful, sea-kindly hull designed to handle offshore passages comfortably. Owners have consistently praised the Fastnet 45 as a "sea-kindly, stiff and dry" vessel, capable of surprisingly good speed even when compared to more modern designs. Her theoretical hull speed is calculated at 7.68 knots, reflecting her substantial length and displacement. The boat's fin keel and skeg-hung rudder configuration contribute to good directional stability and control. The Fastnet 45 is generally considered best suited as a bluewater cruising boat.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the LeComte Fastnet 45 is crafted with the same dedication to quality found throughout the vessel, featuring yacht-quality varnished teak joinery and solid teak and holly cabin soles. Despite the boat's overall robust nature, the interior layout prioritizes spaciousness and liveability.

Typical arrangements include two or sometimes three private staterooms, ensuring comfortable sleeping quarters for crew or guests. The vessel also typically boasts two heads, each equipped with showers, a desirable feature for extended cruising. Central to the interior is a spacious main salon, designed for comfortable lounging and dining. An "exceptional sea galley" is a highlight, suggesting a well-appointed and secure space for meal preparation while underway. A dedicated and spacious navigation station is also a common feature, providing a functional area for passage planning and communication. The design makes excellent use of the available volume, ensuring roomy accommodations throughout.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the LeComte Fastnet 45 frequently laud its exceptional build quality and its dependable performance in diverse conditions. The phrase "built to the highest standards for ocean racing and cruising" is often used to describe these yachts, a sentiment echoed by owners who appreciate the vessel's solid construction and elegant design. The boat is consistently described as a "joy to sail," renowned for its "sea-kindly, stiff and dry" motion, which instills confidence in offshore passages. Many are surprised by its continued ability to perform well, even when compared to contemporary designs.

The active "LeComte Owners Web Site" and various online sailing forums indicate a strong community of enthusiasts who connect to share knowledge, experiences, and admiration for these classic yachts. While specific common problems are not widely reported in broad reviews, the general consensus among owners points to a vessel that, with proper maintenance, offers a rewarding and secure sailing experience rooted in a legacy of quality boat building.