Passport 470 AC Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Passport 470 AC emerged from the design board of Robert Perry in the late 1990s, with production commencing in 1997. Passport Yachts, founded by Wendell Renken in 1979, had already established a strong reputation for building robust offshore sailing boats, initially in Taiwan and later in China with Xiamen Hansheng Yacht Building Co., LTD. This builder is known for an unwavering commitment to quality of construction and ease of handling, characteristics that are paramount for serious cruisers. Robert Perry's design philosophy for the 470 AC focused on creating a vessel that offered soft, easy motion offshore while maintaining a moderate displacement that delivered a smooth ride without compromising on performance.

During its production run, the Passport 470 was also offered in a Center Cockpit (CC) configuration, providing options for different cruising preferences, though the Aft Cockpit (AC) model gained significant popularity. Passport's dedication to semi-custom builds meant that each 470 AC was meticulously crafted, often involving tens of thousands of man-hours and allowing for significant owner input on interior layouts and finishes. This bespoke approach ensured that each yacht was tailored to the owner's specifications, reflecting Passport's commitment to luxury and bespoke shipbuilding.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Passport 470 AC is characterized by a design that prioritizes both comfort and capable performance. With a length overall of 47.0 feet and a waterline length of 39.08 feet, she presents a substantial platform for offshore sailing. Her reported sail area of 1110 square feet combined with a displacement of 30611 pounds results in a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 18.11. This ratio suggests good performance potential, especially in lighter winds, allowing the boat to maintain momentum efficiently.

The ballast-to-displacement ratio (Ballast/D) stands at approximately 0.359. While not in the highest echelon of stiffness, this figure indicates a well-balanced design that provides good stability and the ability to stand up to a significant amount of wind, contributing to a comfortable motion in a seaway. The displacement to length ratio (D/L) of roughly 229 places the Passport 470 AC firmly in the moderate displacement cruiser category. This moderate weight contributes to a comfortable ride and soft motion offshore, fulfilling designer Robert Perry's goal for the model. Owners and reviewers frequently note the boat's stable nature and good righting capability, making it a reliable performer in various sea states. The cutter rig further enhances its versatility, offering a flexible sail plan for different wind conditions.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific interior details can vary due to Passport's semi-custom building approach, the Passport 470 AC generally offers a spacious and well-appointed interior, designed for long-term liveability and extended cruising. Common interior features include a custom American cherry wood finish, which imparts a classic and luxurious feel. Layouts typically feature a walk-through galley and a walk-through from the main salon to the aft cabin, maximizing space and flow.

The generous hull and deck design provide ample room below, allowing for large master and guest cabins. Many configurations include a comfortable V-berth forward, a spacious main salon, and a well-equipped galley. Some custom builds even feature a three-stateroom layout, highlighting the flexibility in design. Passport Yachts is known for practical elements in their designs, such as poured foam insulated refrigerator and freezer compartments, often with signature front and top openings for efficient access, ensuring provisions can be kept for extended periods. The overall finish quality and attention to detail, characteristic of Passport Yachts, are evident throughout the accommodations, providing a luxurious yet practical environment for serious cruisers.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Passport 470 AC frequently praise its solid construction and the overall quality of its build, reflecting Passport Yachts' reputation for creating vessels capable of significant voyages. The boat's comfortable motion offshore and its ability to handle varied conditions with ease are commonly highlighted as significant strengths. Owners often appreciate the semi-custom nature of their yachts, which allowed them to personalize the interior and systems to their specific cruising needs, fostering a strong sense of pride and satisfaction. Discussions among owners often revolve around the boat's robust nature and its performance as a capable blue-water cruiser, underscoring its enduring appeal among those seeking a reliable and luxurious sailing experience.