Outremer 45-2 Information, Review, Specs

Part of the Grand Large Yachting group, Outremer has a long-standing reputation for crafting yachts capable of circumnavigations, and the 45-2 continues this legacy. She is celebrated within the sailing community for her ability to handle diverse sea states while providing a secure and enjoyable platform for long-distance adventures.

The Outremer 45-2 began its production run in 2017, with manufacturing continuing into 2025. This model represents an evolution from the original, highly regarded Outremer 45, aiming to build upon its predecessor's success and reputation. The design philosophy behind the Outremer 45-2, largely guided by design consultant Patrick Le Quément, emphasizes creating a yacht that prioritizes safety, reliability, and the sheer pleasure of sailing 3, 6, Builder Article. Outremer, under the Grand Large Yachting umbrella since 2003, consistently builds vessels intended for extensive ocean crossings, focusing on balancing high performance with the practical demands of long-distance cruising.

The builder’s ethos during this period centered on crafting yachts that are not only robust and resilient but also easy to handle, even for a single person. This commitment to a "fast, safe sailing in comfort" philosophy is deeply embedded in the 45-2's design. The catamaran features narrow, purposeful bows and a large rig, hinting at its performance capabilities. While specific variations like MkI/MkII are not prominently noted for the 45-2, the fundamental design aims to enhance the capabilities of its popular lineage.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Outremer 45-2 is widely praised for its sailing performance and handling characteristics, earning a reputation as an ideal single-handed catamaran suitable for a wide range of sailors. With a reported sail area of 1,140.97 square feet and a fractional sloop rig, she is designed for efficient propulsion. The helm station is centrally located, providing excellent visibility and ensuring that all maneuvers are easily accessible, enhancing the boat's ease of control. This design choice significantly contributes to its reputation for being an easy-to-maneuver 48-foot sailing catamaran, whether for ocean passages or coastal cruising.

Owners and reviewers consistently describe the Outremer 45-2 as a blue water ocean cruising catamaran purpose-built for eating up miles and undertaking circumnavigations. Her twin daggerboards allow for a variable draft, ranging from a minimum of 2.95 feet to a maximum of 6.73 feet, offering flexibility for exploring shallow anchorages while maximizing upwind performance when deployed. The boat's design delivers on Outremer's promise of fast, safe sailing in comfort, capable of proving itself in various sea states.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Outremer 45-2, designed by Darnet Design, is thoughtfully arranged to support extended cruising and comfortable living at sea. While detailed headroom specifics are not always listed, the catamaran layout inherently provides generous interior volume compared to monohulls of similar length. The 45-2 is offered with at least two different internal arrangements: a three-cabin layout and a four-cabin version.

In the popular three-cabin configuration, the entire starboard hull is dedicated to the owner's accommodations, typically featuring a spacious cabin, and often a larger private head compartment. The alternative four-cabin version, while providing more berths, consequently features a smaller owner's bathroom. The general aesthetic of the interior prioritizes functionality and practicality for long trips, with a focus on durability and ease of maintenance over overly luxurious finishes, reflecting its blue water cruising purpose. Storage is ample, designed to accommodate the provisions and gear necessary for extended voyages. Ventilation is typically well-considered to ensure comfort in diverse climates, although specific details would require on-board inspection or more detailed reviews.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Outremer 45-2, much like the broader "Outremer Family," form a vibrant community of passionate adventurers. This strong network provides mutual support, shared experiences, and advice, underscoring the brand's commitment to its owners beyond the purchase, 5]. The collective feedback from owners consistently highlights the Outremer 45-2's solid construction and its exceptional suitability for serious blue water passages. Many owners have undertaken ambitious voyages, with some directly sailing their new boats from Europe to destinations as far as Australia. The ease of handling and the robust nature of the catamaran are frequently lauded, allowing for confident operation whether short-handed or fully crewed. While general owner sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, emphasizing the boat's capability for long-haul, mile-eating cruises, specific recurring weaknesses or common maintenance issues are not widely reported in general reviews. The design is geared towards a functional, rather than overtly "comfy," atmosphere, which aligns with its expeditionary focus.