Apache 45 Information, Review, Specs

The story of the Apache 45 begins in 1970, when Sailcraft Ltd. introduced this new model. The company, founded in 1967 by Reg White and Rodney March, quickly earned a reputation for pioneering high-performance multihulls, including the Olympic-class Tornado catamaran. Sailcraft's commitment to innovation was further solidified through a significant partnership with James Roderick "Rod" Macalpine-Downie, a renowned English multihull sailboat designer. Macalpine-Downie, known for his groundbreaking work and success in catamaran racing, collaborated with Sailcraft to create a series of fiberglass cruising catamarans, of which the Apache 45 is a prominent example.

The Apache 45 was explicitly noted as an "extended" version of the Apache 41, offering increased length and space. Sailcraft's ethos during this era involved embracing modern materials and manufacturing techniques, transitioning to fiberglass construction for their production vessels, which allowed for lighter, stronger, and more consistently built boats. The Apache 45 demonstrated this forward-thinking approach, being constructed with a solid fiberglass hull and deck. During its production run, the Apache 45 was offered with various rig configurations, including sloop, cutter, or ketch, catering to diverse sailing preferences. It also featured a centerboard keel, providing a minimum draft of 3.0 feet for shallow anchorages and a maximum draft of 6.75 feet when the boards were deployed, enhancing upwind performance. A fixed keel version with a draft of 5.83 feet was also available.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a catamaran, the Sailcraft Apache 45 offers a distinct sailing experience compared to monohulls of similar length. With an overall length of 45.0 feet and a waterline length of 41.0 feet, coupled with a remarkable beam of 19.5 feet, she provides inherent stability and a spacious platform. Her displacement of 14,000 lbs, combined with a reported sail area of 710.0 sq ft, suggests a design aimed at efficient propulsion in various conditions. The Apache 45's hull speed is calculated at 8.58 knots, indicative of its potential for fast passages, a hallmark of Macalpine-Downie's designs which often prioritized speed and efficiency. The twin hull configuration, characteristic of catamarans, contributes to reduced heeling, offering a more level sailing platform, which can enhance comfort for cruising. The centerboard design further adds to its versatility, allowing for shallow water access while still providing adequate lateral resistance for good upwind performance when needed.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Sailcraft Apache 45 is designed to maximize the significant volume afforded by its catamaran platform. While specific detailed layouts can vary, particularly given the boat's age and potential customisations, common arrangements for the Apache series typically feature two separate hulls, each often containing sleeping quarters and sometimes a head, connected by a spacious main salon or bridge deck cabin. Based on the interior of the smaller Apache 41, which the 45 extends, a typical layout would likely include a saloon area on the bridge deck, with settees and a dining area, offering panoramic views..

The individual hulls would traditionally house sleeping cabins, such as V-berths forward or quarter berths aft, along with galley facilities and heads compartments. The broad beam of 19.5 feet would have allowed for generous space within each hull for berths and storage, a key advantage of multihull design. Interiors of Sailcraft catamarans from this era would generally feature a blend of fiberglass surfaces with wood trim, offering a functional and durable finish. Storage throughout would typically be ample, addressing the needs of cruising sailors. Given its cruising focus, attention would have been paid to ventilation, likely incorporating numerous hatches and portlights to ensure airflow.