Oyster 745 Information, Review, Specs

The Oyster 745 commenced production in 2014 and remains an active model in Oyster Yachts' lineup. As with all modern Oyster models, her design, spearheaded by Rob Humphreys and his firm, Humphreys Yacht Design, prioritizes comfortable, long-distance cruising. This approach is deeply rooted in Oyster's manufacturing ethos, which emphasizes robust construction, exquisite craftsmanship, and timeless design. The 745 incorporates Oyster's signature deck saloon and distinctive "seascape windows," features that are integral to the Oyster DNA, combining aesthetic appeal with practical functionality and flooding the interior with natural light, 13].

The Oyster 745 offers significant flexibility in its interior configurations, allowing owners to customize the layout to suit their specific needs. Furthermore, a centerboard (CB) variant is available, providing the versatility of a shallower draft (6.83 feet with the board up) for accessing more confined anchorages, while still delivering exhilarating bluewater performance with the board down (15.58 feet). This variant is often paired with a carbon mast, boom, and rigging to optimize stability and balance while reducing overall weight.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Oyster 745 is engineered to deliver exceptional sailing performance without compromising on comfort, making her a formidable and supremely seaworthy offshore sailboat. Her Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 20.08 indicates a yacht capable of performing well in lighter air conditions, ensuring efficient passage-making across a wide range of wind strengths. Complementing this, her Displacement to Length ratio of around 181.67 suggests a relatively lighter, more performance-oriented vessel for her size, a characteristic of modern Oyster designs by Rob Humphreys.

Owners and reviewers consistently describe the Oyster 745 as light and agile on the helm, providing an engaging sailing experience. Her powerful sail plan, combined with advanced powered sail handling systems, contributes to exhilarating performance, allowing for consistently fast and comfortable passages. The yacht is lauded for being a beautifully balanced offshore sailboat, with equipment intentionally over-engineered to withstand the harshest conditions encountered during long-haul bluewater cruising and exploration. This robust design and impressive handling contributed to the Oyster 745 being named "Best Luxury Cruiser" in 2018.

Accommodations and Layout

The Oyster 745 offers generous and luxurious living spaces, typically accommodating up to ten guests with a flexible interior layout. The yacht's center cockpit design is a key feature, providing a secure and comfortable area for guests and crew. Below deck, the arrangement is highly customizable, with typical configurations including multiple cabins, each with its own en-suite head.

A notable aspect of the Oyster 745's design is the inclusion of dedicated crew quarters, situated forward of the galley. These quarters typically consist of a twin bunk cabin with a separate en-suite, making the 745 the smallest in the Oyster range to offer such a dedicated space. The interior finish is characterized by exquisite craftsmanship, with handcrafted wood options such as maple, cherry, or standard oak available, allowing for personalization of the luxurious living environment. Intelligent design and meticulous space planning are evident throughout, maximizing storage and accessibility for extended voyages. The signature deck saloon and "seascape windows" ensure the interior is flooded with natural light and offers expansive views, enhancing the liveability and comfort during long passages, 13]. Access to vital systems is well-considered, with the engine room discreetly located beneath the saloon sole, fully sound-insulated for quiet operation.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Oyster yachts, including the 745, are part of a vibrant and supportive community that extends beyond the purchase of the vessel. This is fostered through various events, regattas, and the highly anticipated Oyster World Rally, where owners forge friendships and share global sailing adventures. Owners consistently praise the solid construction and thoughtful design of Oyster yachts, appreciating their capability for extensive cruising and circumnavigations, 2]. The Oyster 745, in particular, has been celebrated by owners for its wonderful lines and attractive appearance, recognized as both impressive and tempting. Its design for bluewater capability and the support of the Oyster community are significant strengths frequently highlighted by owners.